2 Best Sights in Chanthaburi, The Gulf Coast Beaches

Chanthaburi's French influence is evident in its dual-spired Catholic cathedral, across the river from the center of town. Christian Vietnamese who migrated to the area erected the first church on this site in 1711, and the cathedral has been rebuilt four times since. The present Gothic-inspired structure was completed in the early 1900s, when the city was under French control. The best time to visit is during the morning market, when local foods, fruits, and desserts are sold on the grounds.

Chanthaburi's gem mines are mostly closed, but the Gem Market, which still operates in the center of town, attracts traders. You can often see them sorting through rubies and sapphires and making deals worth hundreds of thousands of baht. The market, an assortment of tables and stalls, takes place on Friday and Saturday along Sichan Road and various alleys off and near it.