Starting a new day in a lively city with a dim sum meal that everyone loves. Even though dim sum can be found in many places, this is the restaurant we recommend not to miss. 

Not only does it offer a variety of dim sum dishes and freshly steamed ones served directly to the table, but it also features a popular menu item: Crispy Fried Sea Bass with Gravy Sauce Noodle (Rad-Na-Pla-Ka-Pong, ราดหน้าปลากะพง). The sea bass is deep-fried to perfection, then coated with a flavorful gravy sauce.

Enrich your soul by paying homage to the deities at the Chinese temple, Wat Hue Chang, which is the most spectacular in Hat Yai. Originally an ancient shrine, this temple was generously donated by a local philanthropist and transformed into a grandiose temple. It took several decades to complete its construction.

Wat Chue Chang is a magnificent multi-story building adorned with intricate decorations, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hat Yai from its elevated vantage point.

The bustling heart of Hat Yai, serving as a central hub for trade and commerce. It is a melting pot of goods from various countries, offering an eclectic array of products. Here, you can find locally sourced delicacies from the southern region of Thailand, such as cashew nut, Songkhla Mini Mango (Ma-Muang-Bao - มะม่วงเบา), or rare local snacks that are hard to come by elsewhere.

The people of Hat Yai are renowned for their mastery in frying chicken, making "Hat Yai Fried Chicken" a name synonymous with delectable flavors. This title guarantees the deliciousness of chicken marinated with a variety of spices, ensuring a crispy texture attained from frying at the perfect temperature.

You can find Hat Yai Fried Chicken in every corner of the city, and it's delicious at every shop.

Hat Yai is filled with charming cafes that serve not only drinks and coffee but also delightful pastries, all while providing a cozy atmosphere. You can simply search for "cafe" on Google Maps, and you'll find cafes in every corner of the city.

The cafe in the picture is one of our favorites, Lorem Ipsum Space. It's a vintage-themed cafe housed in an old building in the heart of the city. The raw and unique decor adds to its appeal, offering patrons a sense of novelty and nostalgia.

Located about half an hour away from Hat Yai. In fact, Songkhla is the central hub of the province, yet it retains a traditional atmosphere and has a unique charm.

Activities in this city include strolling along the historic main street (Nang Ngam Road - ถนนนางงาม), taking photos with street art that narrates the city's stories, relaxing at cafes (which are abundant and rival those in Hat Yai), visiting old house museums, immersing in the nostalgic ambiance of the warehouse by the habour, and indulging in delicious local food snack and dessert.

Take some playful photos at one of Songkhla Town’s landmarks, which consists of an old paint factory and a vintage pier warehouse. Although these establishments are no longer in operation, their picturesque location, original architecture, and striking red walls make them irresistible spots for almost every tourist to visit.

This wear house is located near the river mouth, the site of these warehouses and the pier is significant as an ancient port town that has been around for thousands of years.

The private museum in the old town of Songkhla is located in a beautifully preserved traditional house that is over 300 years old, built in a stunning Sino-Portuguese style. 

The owner has devotedly transformed it into a tribute to the heritage of Songkhla.

Inside, the museum showcases valuable antique items and artifacts that provide insights into the rich history of Songkhla. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the city's past through these precious exhibits, making it a memorable experience.

Or egg biscuits, are renowned treats from the old town of Songkhla. They can be found in many shops along Nang Ngam Road and are a must-try delicacy.

The highlight of Songkhla's Khanom Khai lies in its traditional preparation method. Cooked over charcoal stoves, these egg biscuits are imbued with a fragrant aroma and boast a crispy exterior with a soft interior—a delightful treat you shouldn't miss.

I-Tim Ong (Coconut Ice Cream in Tiny Jar) is another famous delicacy here, known for its unique presentation. It's a coconut ice cream made from the finest local coconuts of the southern region, renowned for their sweetness and fragrance. Served in small jar chaped cups.

Return to Hat Yai and take a drive (or grab a taxi) up to Khao Kho Hong hill. Next, hop on a cable car to cross over to the top of the hill where the grand Buddha statue and the Guanyin statue reside. These statues are perched atop the hill and offer panoramic views of Hat Yai, making it a popular spot for locals to unwind and enjoy the scenery every day.

To wrap up the day, return to downtown Hat Yai once again. This city never sleeps, and at night, it comes alive with numerous eateries offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy any craving.

An another renowned establishment suitable for dinner: Ko Aoun. Famous for their special recipe Deep Fried Bao, this restaurant has been a staple in the city for decades, well-known among the locals of Hat Yai. While they have expanded their branches nationwide, the location I suggest is their original flagship branch.