Nomadic Matt: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Better

Thailand Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 27, 2024

A row of longtail boats parked on a stunning beach in Thailand

Thailand is the travel hub of Southeast Asia . It’s the region’s most visited country and most backpackers make it their starting point for traveling around the region.

With its lush jungles, postcard perfect beaches, world-class diving, mind-blowing cuisine, and cheap prices, Thailand is actually my favorite country in the world! I’ve been coming to the country since 2005, lived there for 2 years, and always seem to be pulled back. It’s an easy country to travel and, because of the backpacker scene, you can meet a lot of other people there. It’s just a phenomenal country.

Since the country is such a well-worn destination, everything here is convenient and easy. You won’t have any trouble traveling around here. But, despite the crowds, there are still many off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore.

This Thailand travel guide will show you how to travel the country like a pro, give you suggested costs, the best things to see and do, ways to get around, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Where to Stay
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • How to Get Around
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Thailand

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Top 5 things to see and do in thailand.

Skyline of Bangkok, Thailand at night, with low buildings in the foreground, a temple complex in the center, and modern skyscrapers in the background

1. Visit Bangkok

Bangkok is a chaotic, must-see city. Here you can explore temples, royal palaces, amazing markets, one of the craziest nightlife scenes in the world, and, of course, eat all the amazing Thai food. Check out Khao San Road to see the backpacker’s haven, Thong Lor/Ekamai for local Thai nightlife, see the Grand Palace’s beautiful artwork and the emerald Buddha, and shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market. Bangkok is an onion that requires time to peel back. Wander off the tourist trail, eat the markets, explore the nightlife, and just relax.

2. Adventure around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city filled with lots temples, incredible food markets, night markets, lots of cafes, and a chill vibe. It’s a good launching pad for multi-day jungle tours, adventure activities, or visits to the nearby elephant sanctuarys where you can volunteer to help rescued elephants. And be sure to head to Wat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most famous temple (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of Buddha himself). Chiang Mai is also consdiered one of the foodie capitals of the country so be sure to get your fill of food. There’s also a big jazz scene here too!

3. Hike in Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park , located about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok, is one of Thailand’s best national parks. It’s visually stunning, filled with lush flora and fauna, lots of waterfalls, hiking trails, and even a few wild elephants. It’s an absolute must-visit place. Stay at the Greenleaf Guesthouse for the best tour/accommodation deals in the area.

4. Celebrate Songkran

Every April, Thais celebrate their new year by holding an enormous, three-day water fight. Songkran is meant to wash away the old and begin the year anew. This once-in-a-lifetime water party is the biggest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai so book your hostel ahead of time. In Bangkok, there’s an opening ceremony at Wat Pho temple where they bathe the Buddha. The whole country turns into a big water fight and everyone plays along. If you’re around Songkran, be prepared to get wet everywhere you go those days (so keep your electronics sealed in plastic). Everyone outside is fair game.

5. Go to Ko Lanta

While Ko Lanta has become more developed in recent years, it’s still a paradise compared to its more developed neighbors. Wide, white sand beaches, cheap and delicious food, gorgeous sunsets, great caves, snorkeling, and diving make this one of my favorite spots in the country. It’s a really chill place where you still get a a taste of old Thailand. For fun day trips, check out the Trang Islands, with their beautiful limestone formations stretching out of the water or head to Ko Rok for kayaking. Ko Lanta is one of the best islands in all of Thailand.

Other Things to See and Do in Thailand

1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

Thailand’s royal palace, built at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I, is the official residence of the current monarch (though he doesn’t live there anymore; now it’s just used for ceremonies). It’s a striking place filled with numerous temples, including Wat Pra Kaeo, which houses the 15th-century Emerald Buddha. The architecture here is absolutely stunning. I highly recommend taking a guided tour as the signage here is minimal. Nearby Wat Pho is famous for two things: a 150 foot (46 meters) reclining Buddha statue and a very relaxing massage school. The temple is wonderful and the statue really impressive. Both can be done back-to-back and should definitely not be missed. It costs 500 THB to enter the Grand Palace and 200 THB to enter Wat Pho.

2. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in the south of Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best national parks in the country, offering incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. The park offers semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife (including sun bears, elephants, gibbons, and more), walking paths, and incredible sunsets. Park entrance costs 200 THB. Half-day guided treks cost 940 THB. Try to spend at least one night sleeping on the lake as the stargazing is top notch.

3. Hop around the ancient capitals

Thailand’s three ancient capitals — Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya — lie between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Visiting them on your way north is a unique way to head between the cities. Lopburi, which is so old it is mentioned in texts by Marco Polo, was the capital in the mid-17th century while Sukhothai, founded in 1238, was the capital for over 140 years between the 13th and 14th centuries. Lopburi is famous for it’s monkeys (watch out as they are aggressive) and Sukothai is a massive complex that sees very few tourists! My favorite is Ayutthaya, which is located about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by train. It was the capital of Siam from 1350-1767 (it was razed in 1767 by the Burmese during the Burmese-Siamese War). You can visit on a day trip for just 900 THB.

4. Relax on the tropical islands

Thailand has tons of beautiful tropical islands. Some are grossly overdeveloped are still an undeveloped tropical paradise with few people and cheap accommodation. Some of my favorite spots are Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang , Ko Tao , Ko Jum, Ko Lipe , the Similan Islands, and Ko Samui. It’s hard to go wrong here as they all have beautiful beaches but the atmosphere of the islands will decide how much you enjoy it so think about whether you want to prioritize peace, parties, activities, etc. Some of the most chill beaches have fewer activities and accommodation options while more touristy places provide a range of lodging and tons of activities and parties but can sometimes be a bit intense. Be sure to do your research before you select a spot.

5. Hit the Full Moon Party

There’s no better party in the world than the famous Full Moon Party . The Full Moon Party is a giant festival-like party with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint. Sure, it is super touristy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot of fun if that’s your vibe. Just don’t take part in the fire jump rope — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

6. Go jungle trekking

There are some great multi-day jungle trekking opportunities in northern Thailand. For longer treks, the biggest departure points are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. You can book these sorts of outings through the hostel or hotel you’re staying in. While day-trips are popular and cheap, try to head out for at least 3-4 days as you’ll be able to get to much more remote areas and see some incredible wildlife (there are tons of birds and bats, as well as lizards, monkeys, and even wild boars) as well as some gorgeous waterfalls. If you book online ahead of time, you will pay more. Skip the shorter day hikes that include meeting “authentic” hill tribes; they are exploitative and the visits are usually unethical. Expect to pay around 5,000 THB for a three-day tour.

7. Scuba dive in the Similan Islands

Scuba diving is a popular activity here because of the crystal-clear waters and majestic sea life. While you can dive all over the country, the Similan Islands offer some of the best uncrowded diving. Given the islands’ remote location, most of these dive trips last a few nights. If you dive here, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, as the reef there is home to plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 5,900 THB for two dives, including equipment and park fees.

8. Learn to cook

Thai food is delicious and it’s relatively easy to cook. There are cooking schools all over the country but the best are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. It’s a fun experience as you’ll get to spend a day making and eating (hopefully delicious) food. I loved being able to go to the market and pick out my fresh ingredients and then learning how to make my own paste for a delicious green curry and a tasty shrimp pad Thai. A half-day cooking class in Bangkok (including a market visit) costs around 1,300 THB. Chiang Mai also has lots of cooking classes and, if you make it to Ko Lanta, Time for Lime is my favorite cooking school in the country.

9. Explore the Khmer temples in Isaan

There are many temples built throughout the Isaan region , all along the ancient roads connecting Angkor (the capital of the Khmer Empire) to the other villages. The largest of these is Phimai, located at the end of the ancient highway. It dates to the 11th century and is one of the largest Hindu Khmer temples in Thailand (and hardly anyone visits so you’ll get the place mostly to yourself). Two other magnificent Khmer temples (Phanom Rung and Muang Tum) can be found in the Buriram province, only a few kilometers apart. Phanom Rung is built on top of a hill, and Muang Tum is at the base of the hill. While in Isaan, be sure to spend a day or two in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) and visit Wat Ban Rai and Wat Phayap, two beautiful local temples that I especially love.

10. Take the day train to Chaing mai

Taking the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is not only cheaper but a much better way to see the countryside than the night train. Sure, you “waste” a day, but you see the countryside, experience how Thais take the train, and can eat from vendors coming on and off at every stop. The day train remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book as the journey is 10-13 hours long! You can also break up the journey by stopping in Lopburi and Sukothai.

11. Visit Elephant Nature Park

While you can come to Thailand and ride an elephant, once you know how they suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about this unethical activity. An even better way to get up-close-and-personal to the animals is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and letting you help these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will know why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs 2,500 THB for adults.

12. Admire Wat Doi Suthep

This stunning Buddhist temple lies in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, 16 kilometers (10 miles) outside of Chiang Mai. A tram or a trek up 300 steps takes you to the summit of Doi Suthep, where the glittering gold temple spire awaits you. The temple dates back to the 14th century and holds rare relics of Buddha. It’s too beautiful of a view to miss, so don’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting Wat Doi Suthep. Admission is free.

13. Visit the Golden Triangle

The point where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River is known as the Golden Triangle. It’s also the meeting point of Laos , Thailand, and Myanmar. Once known for its opium production (which is used to make heroin), today the region thrives on tourism. You can take a boat along the river and visit the Golden Triangle Park, check out some of the many Buddha statues, scenic viewpoints, and markets. It’s just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) north of Chiang Saen. Golden Triangle day trips from Chiang Mai cost around 2,200 THB. If you’d rather visit solo, you can visit the region from Mae Sai or Chiang Saen via songthaew. Don’t miss the Hall of Opium, one of the most interesting museums in the entire country. It explores the history of opium production, shows how it was made and trafficked around the world, and more.

14. Party on Ko Phi Phi

Ko Phi Phi is one of the most popular tourist islands in Thailand. From the infamous Maya Bay (made famous in the 2000 film, The Beach , with Leonardo DiCaprio) to the monkeys on the aptly named Monkey Beach, to the diving and nightlife, there are reasons people flock here. Destroyed by the tsunami in 2004, the island has been rebuilt and developed to an even greater extent than before. While I personally don’t love Ko Phi Phi , it’s nevertheless one of the most popular places in the country. You’ll just have to see for yourself whether it’s for you.

15. Relax on Ko Lipe

Located in southern Thailand, this semi-off the map island is one of my favorite places in the world. Here on Ko Lipe , the super friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood meals. The beaches are beautiful, the water is warm, and the island is cheap. I came for three days and ended up staying a month. In the last few years, it has become more developed and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be, but it’s still way less developed than many other destinations in Thailand. Moreover, you’re near a pristine and undeveloped national marine park where you can snorkel and enjoy some beaches to yourself! It lives up to all the hype.

16. Explore Kanchanaburi Province

This region is home to a lush forest perfect for trekking, though the history of this area is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway linking Myanmar and Thailand runs through here, which was constructed during World War II by prisoners of war and civilians. Around 90,000 Southeast Asian civilian forced laborers and more than 12,000 Allied prisoners perished in the railway’s construction. The bridge over the River Kwai is also located here, built using POW labor and the subject of both a famous film and a book. While visiting is a haunting reminder, it is an essential part of Thailand’s history.

17. Motorbike through Northern Thailand

There are lots of picturesque routes for motorbiking all around the country, but especially near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Many people rent bikes and tour the scenery, taking a day trip or a few days. The Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop that you can do starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai. Note: Make sure that if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it and never (ever) drink and drive. Accidents are incredibly common.

18. Relax in Pai

Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape the crowds and noise of the larger cities. In the last few years, it’s become a big center for yoga and holistic living. Located in Northern Thailand, it’s nestled in rolling green mountains, surrounded by waterfalls, and incredible hiking trails. While I wasn’t a huge fan of Pai itself but I loved the area. I spent a lot of time hiking and swimming. Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves, where you can stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on the way there. It’s an awesome experience.

19. Bounce around Phuket province

Phuket is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. There are great beaches and amazing activities on this island, and if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the over-development and crowds. The more north you go, the more relaxed it is. Phuket draws a lot of tourists, and if you really want to enjoy the area, get out of the main spots. Don’t miss visiting Wat Chalong, hiking to the Karon Viewpoint, and visiting the weekend Night Market.

For more information on specific cities in Thailand, check out these guides:

  • Bangkok Travel Guide
  • Chiang Mai Travel Guide
  • Ko Chang Travel Guide
  • Ko Lipe Travel Guide
  • Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
  • Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide
  • Phuket Travel Guide

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to Thailand filled with even more detailed information as well as itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! So, if you want to go into more depth, click here for more about the book! )

How to Stay Safe in Thailand

Thailand is a safe place to backpack and travel around. Violent attacks against tourists are uncommon. People who get in trouble here are usually involved with drugs or sex tourism, so if you avoid those activities you’ll likely not have any serious issues. I’ve been coming to Thailand for close to twenty years and have never felt unsafe or had a problem.

Solo female travelers will feel safe here (Thais are very respectful), though the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Thailand is very safe for women but, since I’m not a female traveler, check out some female bloggers who can provide a better perspective.

When it comes to cannabis, Thailand changed some of its regulations on marijuana in June 2022. This means that there are licensed weed stores, cafes, vendors with cannabis-infused beverages, etc., where you’re allowed to buy it within that space to smoke it. However, while it is technically legal for people over 20 to smoke weed in ‘your residence’ or certain areas, doing so in public can still land you a 25,000 baht fine. If you want to take part, follow the laws and use common sense. Regarding other drugs, avoid them. The penalties are harsh (and include the death penalty).

Petty theft (including bag snatching) can occur around major tourist areas so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially while taking crowded public transportation. If you’re carrying a purse, wear it across your body and not over one shoulder so it’s hard for someone to take.

Scams in Thailand, unfortunately, are common (though they are rarely violent). The most common scam involves unmetered taxis and tuk-tuks. For that reason, always make sure the taxi driver is using the meter. For tuk-tuk drivers, make sure you know the price in advance so you don’t get ripped off while haggling.

For more information on common scams to avoid you can read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

It’s illegal to defame or talk ill of the monarchy so avoid doing so (avoid talking politics in general if you can). The penalty can be prison (or worse) so do not talk about the monarchy while you are in Thailand!

Anti-government protests are common around the country, but chiefly in large cities. If they occur when you visit, avoid them. They don’t usually turn violent but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance (112 from a mobile device).

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

The widget below can help you pick the right policy for your trip:

Where to Stay in Thailand

Thailand has every type of accommodation you can think of. Here’s my list of the best hostels and budget hotels in Thailand:

  • Lub d Bangkok Siam (Bangkok)
  • D&D Inn (Bangkok)
  • Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
  • Smile Robotist Hostel (Chiang Mai)
  • Chang Puak Hotel (Chiang Mai)
  • Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
  • Balcony Party Hostel (Krabi)
  • Noom Guesthouse (Lopburi)
  • The Famous Pai Circus Hostel (Pai)
  • Old City Guesthouse (Sukhothai)
  • Mut Mee Garden Guest House (Isaan)
  • Bodega Party Hostel (Ko Pha Ngan)
  • Echo Beach Hostel (Ko Pha Ngan)

For more specific recommendations, visit the city and island destination guides as I have even longer lists there.

Thailand Travel Costs

One of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s many stunning historic Buddhist temples

Accommodation

  • Hostel Dorms – 170-500 THB per night
  • Hostel private rooms – 700-1,000 THB per night (+20% during peak season)
  • Guesthouses – 300-400 THB per night (double in larger cities and islands)
  • Budget hotels – 1,000-2,500 THB per night
  • Airbnb apartments – 600-900 THB per night
  • Street food – 20-70 THB
  • Sit-down restaurants – 60-120 THB (+30 THB on the islands)
  • Western food – 170-340 THB
  • Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 150-300 THB
  • Beer – 60-120 THB
  • Glass of wine – 180 THB
  • Cocktails – 300-450 THB
  • Groceries for a week – 600-800 THB

Thailand Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 1,055 thb per day.

If you’re backpacking Thailand, this budget will let you stay in a hostel dorm, eat food from the street vendors, enjoy a couple of drinks per day, and use public transportation. You’ll want to stick to mostly free or cheap activities like swimming, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

Midrange – 1,750 THB Per Day

On a midrange budget, you can stay in a private hostel room or guesthouse with air-conditioning, eat a few meals at Western or sit-down restaurants, rent a motorbike or scooter, and do more paid activities like jungle treks or diving.

Upscale – 3,725 THB Per Day

On an upscale budget, you can do anything you want. You can stay in a nice hotel, eat at fancier restaurants, take taxis, and do all the paid activities you’d like. Thailand does luxury really well!

Thailand Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Thailand is an inexpensive country and it’s hard to overspend here unless you’re trying to splash out on high end meals, imported alcohol, and fancy resorts. If you stick to traveling like how Thais live (street food, public transportation, etc), it’s hard to spend a lot of money. To save money when you visit, here’s my tips on cutting costs in Thailand:

  • Go local – The easiest way to save money in Thailand is to simply live like a local. Take local buses, eat street food, and drink local beer. The average Thai lives on less than 7,750 THB per month in Bangkok and on even less in the countryside. Keep it simple to keep it affordable.
  • Eat street food – Thailand’s best food is on the street, and it costs a fraction of a restaurant meal. Stick to street food if you’re on a budget. There are plenty of delicious curries and rice, fresh juices, and meat skewers. Eating around the markets is a must-do in Thailand. Really that’s where you’ll find rhe best food anyway.
  • Take advantage of happy hour – Thailand’s many happy hours have half-priced drinks and 2-for-1 specials. If you want to hit the bar, stick to drinking during happy hours. If you visit the areas frequented by backpackers, you’ll find even more drink specials.
  • Buy beer at 7-Eleven – Buying beer at Thailand’s ubiquitous 7-Elevens and drinking outside will save you quite a bit on your bar tab. While you can’t get wrecked on the street, you can take drinks with you to sit outside your guesthouse or while on the beach. These places are usually 50% cheaper than drinking at the bar and they have tons of snacks.
  • Don’t book tours before you arrive – Want to take a cooking class? Go zip-lining? Trek in the jungle? Dive? Wait until you get into Thailand to book anything. Travel agencies are located all over the tourist areas, looking to sell their tours. While you’re able to purchase these tours online before you arrive, you’ll be paying a lot more that way. Instead, book when you arrive so you can haggle for a better deal.
  • Stay with a local – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing connects you with locals who give you not only a free place to stay, who can introduce you to all the great places to see. Just make sure to send your requests early!
  • Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia as the tap water isn’t potable. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too).

How to Get Around in Thailand

A hiking path going through the lush forest with a turquoise bay in the background on the island of Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand at sunset over the ocean

Public transportation – Local buses cost as little as 8 THB per trip (for buses with no AC) and around double that for buses with AC. A week-long pass in Bangkok costs between 120-255 THB, depending on if you want buses with AC or no AC. The Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost 16-52 THB per trip.

In Chiang Mai, the buses have AC and cost around 20 THB per ticket. An unlimited day pass is 180 THB.

In many places, songthaews are the most common mode of local transportation. These converted pick-up trucks don’t follow set stops, simply going wherever their riders ask. They generally cost 30-50 THB for a ride.

Taxi – Metered taxi rides are usually 60-100 THB each. Always stick to the metered taxis, otherwise, you’ll get charged an overpriced ride. If you notice your driver not using the meter, get out and find a driver who will.

Tuk-tuks are un-metered and generally more expensive, costing 100-235 THB per ride. Be sure to agree on a price before you take off. I generally try to avoid tuk-tuks, but for very short distances they can be fun.

Motorbike taxis (in orange vests) are available all over the country with short trips costing about 35-80 THB, but you need to negotiate the price.

Bus – Coach buses in Thailand are incredibly cheap and a great way to get around the country. For intercity travel, you’ll pay more for better services like sleeper buses and air-conditioning. A budget bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 10 hours and costs about 529-617 THB, while a first-class ticket for the same journey costs 825 THB. Bangkok to Trat (where you can then change to a ferry taking you to Ko Chang) takes 5 hours and costs about 250-300 THB. A two-hour bus journey from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is just 120-140 THB.

Train – Trains in Thailand tend to be slow, but they’re an incredibly scenic option for getting around. Taking the train is a genuine Thai experience, making the journey as much a part of your trip as the destination. Day trains cost as little as 30-50 THB and night trains start at 875 THB for second class without air-conditioning. By the way, the air-conditioned night trains can be freezing so be prepared. A train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 11-13 hours and costs 715-900 THB, while Bangkok to Pattaya takes 4 hours and costs 30-50 THB.

There is a new Bangkok–Vientiane train for getting to Laos, which takes 11-13 hours and costs around 1,000 THB. Taking the train is also a convenient way to travel between Bangkok, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.

Flying – Flights are a quick and affordable way to travel around the country, with prices ranging between 825-4,500 THB. Flights to the islands tend to be higher in price than flying between large cities or popular destinations. For example, Bangkok to Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Krabi all cost 450-825 THB for a one-way ticket, while a one-way from Bangkok to Koh Samui can be found for around 2,150 THB.

Budget-friendly airlines in Thailand include:

  • Thai Lion Air
  • Vietjet Air

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber and it works the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi and you don’t have to worry about getting cheated on the price. I much prefer to use this app.

Ferry – Travel between islands and beaches is best done by long-tail boat, which costs around 150-275 THB per person for shorter trips. Bigger cities like Bangkok have regular ferries, costing 13-32 per ride.

Car rental – If you want to rent a car in Thailand, an IDP (International Driving Permit) is required. That said, unless you’re an adventurous traveler with experience driving in rugged conditions, I don’t recommend renting a car here as traffic in the cities is sluggish and the roads in rural areas can be unreliable.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars . Prices start around 700-800 THB per day.

Renting a motorbike is super popular in rural areas and on the islands, either for day trips or for road trips. Just make sure you wear a helmet and have insurance (and ideally have experience on a bike or scooter) as I’ve seen a ton of backpackers with road rash who wrecked their bikes because they just weren’t experienced enough.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Thailand is perfectly safe, though it’s not that common here. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through rural areas. Hitchwiki is a great resource for more hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to Thailand

Overall, the best time of year to visit Thailand is between November to March. The high season (cool/dry) is from November to March. Temperatures during this time are usually 30°C (86°F) or higher (yes, that is “cool” in Thailand). The islands are much hotter and more humid, though the entire country is very humid during this time. This is also the busiest time of the year so expect higher prices and lots of tourists, especially around Christmas/New Year’s.

If you plan on being in the north during this time, temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings so bring warm clothing. It gets cold at night, especially out in the mountains.

The shoulder season is from April to June, and it is HOT, with temps regularly over 40 C. It’s the hottest time of the year! The country is still really busy this time of year, though crowds begin to shrink after mid-April.

Monsoon hits the northern area at the end of May, bringing daily bouts of rain (though the weather is still warm). The low season is the rainy season, from July to October. Rainfall can be dramatic, ranging from light showers to major flooding. June and August have the heaviest rains, but things wind down during October. You might still get some afternoon showers, but October is also generally a good time to visit.

Thailand Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

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My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more!  Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Thailand Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

One of the many beautiful and colorful temples in Bangkok, Thailand on a bright and sunny day

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

A view overlooking the Old City moat from a small bridge in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The beaches in Thailand on the West coast with mountains

How to Get Around Thailand on the Cheap

the bright red and ornately decorated Temple Wat Phrai Phatthana in Isaan, Thailand

How to Travel Around Isaan Thailand

Iconic Thai longboats ties up on a beach in Thailand

How Much a Holiday in Thailand Costs

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

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TRAVEL to THAILAND – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Thailand in our comprehensive 2024 Thailand Travel Guide.

Having spent almost 12 months exploring and living in the ‘Land of Smiles’, we’ve become pretty knowledgable when it comes to information on travel to Thailand, which is why we’ve put together this epic Thailand travel guide for you!

Travelling to Thailand, a place proud in heritage and Buddhism offers an insight into the fight to sustain its past while a booming economy beckons.

From the Grand Palace to the rice paddies of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s diversity of adventure and culture combine to be the perfect mix for a first-timers country or those who want to delve deeper.

Maybe a trip to remote Northeastern Thailand to visit 13th-century temples or why not head to Phangnga Bay home to a multitude of limestone islands.

Thailand along with its expanding cities, natural landscapes never cease to amaze from the Northern jungles of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai where waterfalls become an ideal swimming spot as lush forests dominate the mountainous horizon all while golden beaches and oceans sustain some of Thailand’s most pristine and unique sea life.

Travelling in Thailand has it all from exotic cuisines, endless opportunity for adventure and some of the friendliest people in the world. What more could you ask for?

Day Trips From Bangkok

17 EPIC Things to Do in Pai, Thailand [2024 Guide]

The 23 best things to do in phuket, the 22 best things to do in koh samui, thailand, travelling in thailand: at a glance.

Here are the basics of travel to Australia.

Thai Baht (See  current exchange rates ). $1 USD equals roughly 31 Thai Baht. You can often find cheap local meals for about 30-50 Baht ($1-2 USD), and an average beer at a bar can cost between 70-100 Baht ($2-3 USD). 

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Chiang Mai, Phuket

ENTRY / VISA:

People travelling to Thailand must obtain a visa unless they come from a visa-exempt country, or a country that can obtain a visa on arrival. For information about the visa process click  here.

Thai (In touristy areas, many locals speak English. So you don’t have to be fluent in Thai to navigate the country!)

Thailand in general is a very safe country for tourists, but just like everywhere else you need to be street smart. The most common issues tourists will encounter in Thailand comes in the form of petty theft and robberies, usually in busy markets or out on the streets late at night.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. If you have 110-volt appliances, you need a voltage adaptor otherwise you’ll burn out the item you are using. Plug type A (two-prong round socket) or C (two-prong flat sockets).Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave.

TRANSPORTATION:

Getting around Thailand is super easy. Thailand has some wonderful public transport infrastructure in place, and you can get just about anywhere in the country without too much of an issue.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Thailand

With so much to see and do in Thailand, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Thailand you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Go Scuba Diving

Thailand is the place to get scuba certified. The courses are among the cheapest in the world and the trainers are highly qualified. If you are already certified, dives are cheap.

Go  diving from Phuket .

Yoga Atmanjai Wellness Spa Detox In Thailand

Find peace at a meditation/yoga retreat

Thailand caters to those of us who are looking for a place to recharge our minds and bodies. With lots of affordable options, a retreat should be on your must-do list.

Book your  wellness stay in Koh Samui .

Thai People Often Order Lots Of Different Dishes For Everyone To Share.

Take a Thai cooking class

Thai food is so delicious, so why not learn to cook it yourself? There are many cooking classes available throughout the country.

Book a  cooking class in Bangkok .

The Colorful Long Tail Boats Of Koh Phi Phi

Island hop the most picturesque beaches

Thailand offers some of the most spectacular beaches in all of the world. Most of these are on islands only accessible by boat. Fortunately, transport is cheap and easy so get out and find your favourite beach!

Monk Thailand

Pay your respects at the many temples

Buddhism is an essential and vibrant part of Thai life and temples are all over the country. To learn more, respectfully engage in conversation with monks. And at some of the temples, you can learn meditation for the day or have a meal for a small donation.

Tour the famous  temples of Chiang Mai .

Other Things to do in Thailand

Rock climb . Krabi is known for many things, rock climbing among them.  Railay Beach  is the most popular place to give the sport a try.

Get a Sak Yant tattoo . Sak Tant tattoos are  sacred and blessed tattoos  inscribed by monks using traditional bamboo tattoo methods. Definitely a permanent memory from your time in Thailand.

Ride a tuk-tuk . These three-wheeled vehicles are the most common way to navigate the busy streets in most Thai cities. You’d be hard-pressed not to find them convenient and affordable during your travels.

Visit a floating market . Bangkok has  the most famous floating markets . But you can tour others throughout the country for a uniquely Thai feel.

Eat Pad Thai . Sure you’ve probably had Pad Thai at your favourite Thai restaurant back home. But you’ve never had it as you will in Thailand itself.

Watch a Ladyboy show . Seemingly peculiar yet incredibly popular and well respected in Thai culture, the  Ladyboy Cabaret’s  will leave you entertained for sure.

Walk on the Bridge Over the River Kwai . Famous in its own right, the bridge is worth a stroll when you are  visiting Kanchanaburi .

Visit the Golden Triangle . Thailand, Laos and Myanmar come together at what is called the Golden Triangle.  Visit here  to take in all 3 countries at once.

Visit the Bangkok Airplane Graveyard . It’s never good to think of planes and graveyards in the same thought. Unless you can explore the ruins of  massive and historic planes .

Catch a sunset at the Phi Phi viewpoint . Sure there are plenty of amazing places to end your day in Thailand. But  Koh Phi Phi  boasts just about the best sunsets as anywhere else in the country.

Watch Muay Thai fight . You can watch Muay Thai at any number of venues around Thailand. Or  take a lesson in Bangkok  if you’re up for the challenge.

See the Big Buddha . Buddhism is big in Thailand. And nothing demonstrates this more than the Big Buddha in Phuket.

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Amazing Things to do in Thailand !

READ MORE...

27 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand

Cape Fahn Hotel Review – The Best Luxury Resort on Koh Samui

How to Get a Sak Yant in Chiang Mai (Hygienically and Safely in 2024)

Cape Kudu Hotel Review – Best Place to Stay on Koh Yao Noi

10 BEST Things to Do in Ao Nang, Thailand [2024]

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Thailand. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

The capital of Thailand has become one of the most popular gateways to Asia. No trip to Thailand is complete without  a few days in Bangkok .

Old Phuket Town Pixabay

For the best introduction to the stunning scenery and warm culture of Thailand,  visit Phuket , the country’s largest island.

3 Days In Chiang Mai Itinerary

With the best restaurant and cafe scene in the country, excellent nightlife, a strong Buddhist presence and enough activities to fill a calendar year, there is definitely no shortage of  things to do in Chiang Mai !

Beach Koh Samui Thailand

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with pristine beaches. As the second-largest Thai island, you absolutely must plan to  visit Koh Samui .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Thailand, reference our following city travel guides: 

*  Bangkok City Guide *  Bangkok Itinerary *  Day Trips From Bangkok

Chiang Mai:

*  Chiang Mai City Guide *  Chiang Mai Itinerary * Day Trips From Chiang Mai

*  Phuket City Guide *  Phuket Itinerary * Day Trips from Phuket

*  Koh Samui City Guide *  Koh Samui Itinerary

Krabi Pai Koh Phi Phi Chiang Rai Ao Nang Koh Mook Trang Kanchanaburi

Kamphaeng Phet Koh Lanta Pattaya Hua Hin Koh Phangan Koh Yao Noi Koh Tao Tonsai Beach

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Awesome Places to Visit in Thailand.

Best Thailand Travel Itinerary

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or have a general idea of what kind of things you would like to see and do, we’ve put together a  few Thailand itineraries  that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Thailand that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Thailand these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

There is so much to see and do in Thailand, and you honestly could spend years here (lots of people to in fact).

Here is an overview of how you might consider spending between 1 to 3 weeks in Thailand.

Whether you love adventure, relaxation, health and wellness, luxury, food or culture, every type of travel is possible in Thailand!

Southern Thailand is more about beach life, luxury, partying and relaxing, whereas Northern Thailand is more about culture, food and adventure.

Here are some  2-week Thailand itinerary  suggestions that will help you plan your trip to Thailand.

Southern Thailand – Beach Life

  • Fly into Phuket
  • 2 days in Phuket
  • 2 days in  Khao Sok National Park
  • 3 days in Ao Nang – There are a lot of  things to do in Ao Nang , and you can island hop from here.
  • 3 days in Koh Lanta
  • 4 days in Koh Lipe
  • Fly back to  Phuket  to fly out

Northern Thailand – Culture

  • Fly into Bangkok
  • 3 days in Bangkok – Check out our guide on the  best things to do in Bangkok.
  • 2 days in Ayutthaya – Travel back in time and visit this historical park. Well preserved ruins and massive stupas.
  • Fly up to Chiang Mai
  • 3 days in Chiang Mai – There are so many  things to do in Chiang Mai.
  • 3 days in Pai – Relax on the river bed or ride a motorbike and explore the surrounding area. Read our awesome  Pai travel guide.
  • 2 days in Chiang Rai – Visit the White Temple.
  • Fly back to Bangkok and head out on the next adventure.

Best of Both Worlds – North and South

  • 2 days in Bangkok
  • Day trip to Ayuthaya
  • Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • 2 days in Chiang Mai
  • 2 days in Chiang Rai
  • Fly from Chiang Rai to Krabi
  • 2 nights in Ao Nang / Railay Beach
  • 2 nights in Koh Lanta
  • Fly back to Bangkok and fly out

READ MORE: CHECK OUT THIS POST FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE  BEST THAILAND ITINERARIES .

Thailand Trip Planning

Best time to visit thailand.

If you are travelling the whole country from south to north, we would recommend travelling between the months of December and February for beautiful clear blue skies and nice temperatures.

January to February sees much less rain across the country, and temperatures remain constant throughout the year. The humidity is also very manageable.

If you’re in the north of the country at this time of year it may get a bit chilly at night so bring a sweater with you.

If you wanted to avoid the busy times, which are from November to March, consider travelling around from March to October when it is low season. There are way fewer tourists and hotels and flights are cheaper.

The one downside is that it does rain a lot in the afternoons and it can be very humid, but if you don’t mind getting a bit wet then this is a brilliant time to travel to Thailand.

Avoid Chiang Mai around April, as this is the burning season. It is not a pleasant time to be there as the air quality is not very good and hard to breathe at times.

If you have asthma, avoid this area completely during the burning season.

Thailand Travel Budget Guideline

Thailand is a very cheap country compared to most Western destinations, but it is on the high side compared to other countries in Southeast Asia.

A Thailand travel budget really comes down to your style and how much you’re willing to spend on things.

It’s entirely possible to travel on $20 a day, and you could also live on $2000 a day if you want.

For the most part, the north is around 30-50% cheaper than the south, so keep that in mind when you’re trying to figure out how much to spend and where you want to hang out the most.

The prices below are a general budget guide to travel in Thailand. All prices are in USD per day.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

  • Single Traveller:  $20-$40
  • Couple Travellers:  $50-$80

Backpacking in Thailand is a wonderful experience for people of all ages and in our opinion the most authentic and enjoyable way to explore the country.

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, and either not drinking or only having a few beers a week, then you can go as low as $25 a day, a bit more if you are in the south.

A single hostel bed can be $8-$15 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$30. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $2 from 7/11.

You can rent scooters for as low as $5 a day if you’re renting long-term, and fuel is very cheap, making it an excellent way to explore towns.

Flashpacker

  • Single Traveller:  $50-$100
  • Couple Travellers:  $80-$150

If you can afford to fit into a flashpacker budget, you’re going to have an incredibly epic time in Thailand.

You’ll be spoilt with nice private rooms, great food, cocktails on the beach and quite a few awesome activities like scuba diving in Koh Tao.

You’ll get excellent private rooms for $20-30 in the north, $40-50 in the south.

You can eat off the street when you want, and a lot of good, delicious meals can be found for $5-10.

Visit a few temples, do a cooking course, get a private guided tour, the world really is your oyster as a flashpacker in Thailand.

  • Single Traveller:  $200-$400+
  • Couple Travellers:  $250-$500+

Thailand has some of the best luxury resorts in the world, and this is where the majority of your budget will go when you travel to Thailand as a luxury visitor.

The truth is even if you eat at very nice restaurants, you’ll still struggle to pay more than $20-$30 a meal (there are of course exceptions to this rule in award-winning restaurants), but you’ll probably find your budget will get blown out on alcohol.

Fancy cocktails in luxury resorts can cost up to $20 for one drink.

CHECK OUT OUR  THAILAND BUDGETING GUIDE  TO HELP MAKE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER.

Getting to and Around Thailand

Visa requirements for thailand.

People travelling to Thailand must obtain a visa unless they come from a visa-exempt country or a country that can obtain a visa on arrival.

There are 57 countries that are visa-free and 21 countries that can obtain a visa on arrival. The rest need a visa and can obtain them from your local Thai embassy.

Visa-on-arrivals (VOA) are usually given for up to 30 days when arriving by air, or 15 days when entering by land.

These can be extended once at an immigration office in Thailand.

Make sure you look up the visa requirements for your country. Airlines have the list of visas required for different countries and may refuse you to board if you don’t have the visa.

Check out whether you need a visa or not  here .

How to Get to Thailand

There are a number of airlines that fly to Thailand from all over the world.

The main international airports that you will likely fly into are Bangkok Suvamabhumi Airport (BKK) or Phuket International Airport (HKT). Bangkok is a major transport hub and many countries offer direct flights.

There is public transport from both of these airports into the cities, or you can catch a taxi or shuttle bus.

You can sometimes get a great deal with a budget airline too. Luggage and food will not be included, and you will have to pay this on top of the fare.

But if you are only travelling with a carry-on and don’t mind bringing your own food, you can get some awesome prices.

We look for our flights through Skyscanner and Google Flights.

Thailand Travel Tips

Transport in Thailand

If you’re more inclined to stick to tourist-focused transport you’ll find no shortage of companies willing to get you to every main tourist destination. Caveats apply though, so read on…

You can get some great deals with the local airline carriers within the country. Sometimes flying is cheaper than train or bus travel too. 

The airline carriers are usually budget and luggage may not be included in the price. Food and drinks will probably cost extra onboard.

Vietjet, Lion Air, Thai Smile, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Orient Thai, Thai Airways and Air Asia are all good carriers in Thailand.

Buses are the most common way to travel in Thailand, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a single town that isn’t serviced by at least one bus company.

The tourists’ options are nice “VIP” buses that offer comfortable seating, a small meal and a (mostly) reliable bus. Unless you are on a tight budget, we recommend booking on the VIP buses where possible.

Something to keep in mind is that just because you’re paying more for a tourist bus, doesn’t mean your valuables will be safe, and unfortunately, there is a lot of theft common on these trips.

But chances are you’ll find yourself on a bus at some point in your travel to Thailand.

Getting out to the famous Thai islands often means you’ll need to take a boat or a ferry. You can buy your ticket at legit travel agents, or at the boat company’s office at the pier.

The boats aren’t anything fancy and range from small speed boats to large ferries with open decks and beds for sleeping on the overnight journeys.

You can sit inside or outside, but if you sit outside make sure you wear sunscreen and be prepared to get a bit wet if it’s a speedboat.

Thailand has a few major cities that are connected via a decent train network, and this is an excellent way to travel around the country.

From Bangkok, you can get to destinations like Chiang Mai and Chumphon on an overnight trip, or you can get a train to Ayutthaya which is 50km out of Bangkok.

If you are on a tight time frame, the train is not the best way to travel in Thailand, as they do run late a lot of the time.

Just like anywhere else in the world, Thailand is full of taxis. And just like anywhere else in the world, these taxi drivers may try and scam you or rip you off.

If you grab a taxi on the street make sure they use the meter or negotiate a price beforehand.

Songthaews are red pick-up trucks with benches on the back ( songthaew  literally means ‘two benches’ in Thai), which you will find all throughout Thailand.

They are shared transport for getting around towns or between villages. You simply flag down a Songthaew when you see one comes, tell the driver your destination, and if the driver is going that way jump on the back.

The cost ranges per distance and you pay when you arrive at your destination.

Tuk-tuks are a great way to get around the cities, and no trip to Thailand would be complete without taking at least one tuk-tuk journey.

Tuk-tuks are basically a little bubble trailer attached to the back of a scooter that a couple of people can sit in.

These 3-wheeled vehicles go everywhere and are incredibly popular for locals and tourists alike.

Rental Cars

While driving in Thailand can be quite interesting, renting a car is still the best way to have full autonomy over your travel itinerary.

Be aware of the traffic laws and pay full attention to other drivers.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend  Rental Cars , which has the largest range of cars for the best value on the market.

READ MORE: Check out this post if you’re looking for more detailed information and tips on  how to get to and around Thailand .

Apps and Technology

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

  • XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
  • Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Thailand. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
  • iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Thai words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Thailand.
  • Google Maps  – Super helpful for getting around Thailand. Some local attractions in remote areas don’t have exact street addresses, so Google Maps can help you visualize exactly where they are. 
  • Rome2Rio  – Very convenient for comparing different forms of public transport so you can pick either the quickest or the cheapest way to travel. 
  • Maps.Me  – This allows you to download maps that you can use offline. That way you never get lost even if you don’t have wifi!

Planning A Trip To Thailand

Best Things to Eat in Thailand

There’s a reason Thai food is one of the most popular foreign cuisines around the world – because it’s absolutely amazing!

Known for being delicious, healthy and cheap, Thai food is quite varied, and you’ll find unique dishes in all the major towns, and a distinct flavour difference from the south to the north.

It can also be quite spicy, so if you’re not into that make sure you learn to say “ mai phet ” (my pet), which means “no spice”.

Here are some dishes not to miss when you are in Thailand.

  • Som Tom (Spicy green papaya salad)
  • Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Fried Basil and pork)
  • Gaeng Keow Wan Kai (Green chicken curry)
  • Kai Med Ma Muang (Chicken with cashew nuts)
  • Khao Soi (Creamy coconut curry noodle soup)
  • Pad Phuk Tong (Stir-fried pumpkin)
  • Pak Boong (Morning glory greens)
  • Panang (Thai curry)
  • Kao Niew Ma Muang (Mango and sticky rice)
  • Pad Thai (Classic fried noodle dish) 

READ MORE: LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE  BEST FOOD IN THAILAND !

Places to Stay in Thailand

Thailand is a curious nation when it comes to places to stay because the options here cover just about everything you could ever dream of.

If you’re looking for world-class, high-end, award-winning luxury resorts, you’ll find them in spade around southern Thailand in places like Phuket.

On the flip side if you are travelling through some remote hill tribe villages in the north, don’t be surprised if you end up sleeping on a dirt floor with bugs.

It might not be luxurious, but is definitely authentic! It all depends on where you go and your budget.

To book your accommodation in Thailand we recommend using  Agoda , and  you can use the coupon code “AGODANMD10” to get 10% off your hotels and hostels.

Types of Accommodations

Thailand is packed with affordable backpacker hostels that generally range from 5 to 12 USD per night for a dorm bed.

If you are a solo traveller looking to save the most money, a cheap hostel dorm bed is the way to go. 

Most hostels in Thailand have basic amenities and are quite clean. It is common to find kitchens, lounge areas, pool tables and games, televisions, and laundry facilities in hostels around Thailand. 

There are a lot of party hostels as well, which are amazing for meeting people and having fun nights out.

But if you prefer a more low-key, quiet, stay make sure you book hostels that aren’t notorious for partying.

Guesthouses

For mid-range priced accommodation, Thailand has lots of guesthouses.

These are like very small hotels, usually set in a local’s home or apartment building, but they offer a more intimate and homey experience than a hotel. 

A standard room in a guesthouse can be anywhere between 15 and 40 USD per night.

So you can enjoy more private and cozy accommodation than a hostel, for a very cheap price.

If you are traveling as a couple, it may even be cheaper to split the cost of one cheap room rather than buy two separate hostel dorm beds. 

Hotels in Thailand can range from standard and basic to absolute luxury. Even very nice hotels can be super cheap compared to many other countries, so Thailand is a great country to treat yourself. 

Gorgeous hotels that aren’t 5-star luxury hotels can still cost anywhere between 30 and 150 USD per night.

If you shoot for the best of the best, meaning luxury, beachfront, five-star hotels, you’ll spend a few hundred USD per night which is still affordable for the quality you are getting. 

Airbnbs are pretty similar to guesthouses because they are also set up in a local’s home or property. But when you rent a place on Airbnb, you usually have either the whole house or apartment to yourself.

You can also rent single rooms on Airbnb for a cheaper stay. 

Airbnb prices in Thailand are actually a bit higher than some cheap hotels and guesthouses.

Depending on the quality of the place, places can cost anywhere between 50 and 150 USD per night. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Beach Bungalows

Because Thailand has such an abundance of coastline, it is quite easy and affordable to find adorable beach bungalows.

Renting a beach bungalow means you’ll have your own private mini house right on the sand with the ocean right in front of your window. 

Any major tourist island of Thailand will have beach bungalows available for rent, and they usually cost only 30 to 70 USD per night.

Thailand Travel Tips

While there are  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Thailand, there are also plenty of Thai-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are some of our best tips to help you travel to Thailand.

  • Be respectful to the locals and other travellers. Respect the culture, whether you are in a temple or out on the streets.
  • Dress appropriately. Because you are in a warm country, doesn’t mean you can wear next to no clothing. Please dress respectfully, especially when you are going inside a temple.
  • Never raise your voice or start a commotion in public. In Thai culture, they do not do this and hate confrontation. Always keep your calm, even if someone is trying to take advantage of you.
  • Be prepared to take off your shoes a lot. Bring slip-on or sandals. You will be taking your shoes off and on if you are entering a temple, home or some hotels and restaurants.
  • Book tours through respectable travel agents
  • There are two prices at attractions; Local price and foreigner (farang) price. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about it. Don’t argue, it will not get you anywhere.
  • Have an idea of prices before you shop, buy a tour, buy a transport ticket or rent a room. Sometimes the prices fluctuate depending on how smart you are. Do your research so you don’t get ripped off.
  • Know the currency exchange rate. This is important when changing money. You want to know you are getting a good price.
  • Try new foods. Thai food is delicious
  • Use your insect repellent, as the sand flies and mosquitoes are terrible
  • Wear a helmet if you rent a scooter
  • Know the scams. Research scams in Thailand so you are prepared and know if someone tries it on you.
  • Do not drink the tap water. Take a metal water bottle and refill it out of big filtered water vendors or reverse osmosis machines.
  • Take advantage of the happy hours. You will see them at bars and cafes during the day. So take note and have a few drinks then.
  • Always look both ways when crossing the road. Sometimes a scooter may be going down the wrong way. Look both ways and be sure before crossing.
  • When renting a scooter, take photos of the bike from all angles and in front of the rental place too. Never leave your passport with them either. Bring a photocopy. There are dodgy companies out there.
  • The girls in the bars may not be ladies. There are many lady-boys in Thailand and you would never even know so just heads up if you are not into that.

READ MORE: Our comprehensive list of  Thailand travel tips  to make your journey safer, more enjoyable and more affordable!

Thailand Packing List

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Thailand, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

READ MORE: Be sure to know  what and why to pack  for every season in Thailand!

Staying Safe in Thailand

Thailand, in general, is a very safe country for tourists, but just like everywhere else you need to be street smart.

The most common issues tourists will encounter in Thailand comes in the form of petty theft and robberies, usually in busy markets or out on the streets late at night.

You need to respect and obey the Thai law, including all of those that involve respecting the monarchy.

Thailand has experiences with civil unrest and military coups in recent years.

Use your head and stay clear of street demonstrations.

Violent crime is very rare in Thailand, but do exercise caution during parties such as full moon parties or dodgy areas in places.

In general, if you show respect to Thai people, they will show respect to you.

Driving on the roads in Thailand is crazy, so we can’t mention safety without reminding you to be wise on the roads.

For bus and minivan transport try and go with tour companies and bus companies that are responsible.

If you rent a motorbike, check it over when you pick it up. Check the brakes, the lights, etc. Most importantly always wear a helmet, shoes, pants and a top.

Don’t be one of those backpackers that rides a scooter wearing their swimwear thinking you’re cool.

Hot tip – the gravel in Thailand is just as hard as the gravel in your home country if you come off.

Don’t travel to Thailand without travel insurance! It’s the most important thing you need for your trip, trust us. Alesha visited the hospital in Koh Lanta with stomach pains and we ended up with a $1500 bill.

Travel insurance covered every cent.

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Medical System in Thailand

If you need to go to a hospital in Thailand, don’t panic. The quality of care is very good, and in some hospitals could be even better than what you have back in your home country.

In most situations, you’ll be required to pay upfront for any care unless you can prove you have travel insurance.

That’s one of our Thailand travel tips for you.

Private Hospitals In Thailand

There is a private hospital network that is privately owned, and their prices are a lot more expensive.

The doctors and nurses will speak English and the care is very good, but you are paying an arm and a leg for their services.

They will ask for your passport on the way in before they see you. NEVER hand them your passport.

If you are insured, call your insurance company and get clearance that they will pay, or you can pay a price upfront to get the services rolling.

If you hand them your passport, they will hold it ransom and start charging you for random services, refusing to return it to you until you pay the full amount.

When it comes to money, these private companies are very aggressive. And if they know an insurance company is paying they will give you tests that are not necessary.

This happened to Alesha when she had an intestine infection. We were communicating with our insurance company and told them these tests were not needed.

The insurance company agreed and the clinic got very aggressive and hostile. This was at Siam International Clinic in Koh Lanta.

While we were there we saw them rip off countless backpackers, charging them insane prices for things as basic as paracetamol.

The service was great, the facility was spotless, but they were a business first and hospital second, only caring about extracting as much cash as possible.

This isn’t to scare you, and obviously if you’re sick or have an accident go to a hospital immediately. It’s just a warning.

We highly recommend you always have  travel insurance  when travelling in Thailand.

Government Hospitals in Thailand

There are dozens of government-run hospitals all throughout Thailand, and these range from having very high standards to being basic, third-world facilities.

At these hospitals, you will be waiting in long queues, and there may be no one that speaks English.

If you can go with a local, that would be the best option for communication. You may also need to pay upfront before a doctor or nurse will see you.

As a foreigner expect to be charged a higher fee than a Thai person, but these costs will be extremely cheap, especially when compared to the private hospitals.

This is because locals pay social security and tax, so a lot of their medical care may be subsidised.

Medical Tourism

Medical Tourism is definitely a big thing for people travelling to Thailand.

You can get procedures done for way cheaper than in most western countries, and a lot of these services are extremely high quality.

But DO YOUR RESEARCH!

If you are looking to get cosmetic work done, meet with the clinic, ask all your questions and research the clinic online for reviews before committing to anything.

For dental care, Thailand is an excellent place to go as well. We went to a dental clinic in Chiang Mai called Dental 4 U and we had great experiences with them.

We did our research, talked to ex-pats, and all arrows kept pointing at this dentist.

It was a lot cheaper than Australia, very clean, our dentist spoke perfect English, had studied in the US, and explained every little detail to us.

Staying Connected in Thailand

These days it is incredibly easy to stay connected while traveling. Free wifi is common in touristy areas, and SIM cards are quick and easy to obtain.

So if you’re only traveling to Thailand for a week or two, you should be able to survive by just sticking with your current data plan or only using wifi. 

If you’re spending a few weeks or longer in Thailand, you may want to get a local SIM card so you can connect with locals more. 

Consider these options for staying connected in Thailand. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Head to any 7-Eleven or cell-phone store in Thailand to purchase a local SIM card. There are lots of different plans to choose from, including ones with data.

A cheap, pay-as-you-go plan is the most flexible and economical unless you plan on making lots of phone calls every day or using lots of data, then you can buy a prepaid plan. 

In touristy cities like Bangkok the staff at cell-phone stores usually speak English. Show them your phone, discuss what type of plan you want and they can install a local SIM card for you.

Then you’ll have a Thai phone number, and you can start calling and texting and using data in addition to just seeking out wifi. 

If you want to set up your SIM card before you go, you can order it online and then pick it up when you arrive.

Get your  WiFi for Thailand setup today .

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

If you’re heading out of the populated areas and into remote corners of Thailand, you probably won’t have any signal or wifi.

You can rent a portable wifi device, but they generally only work in areas with good connections. Portable wifi devices, also known as “pocket wifi”, are also about the same price as just buying a SIM card with a data package.

You’re probably better off just buying some data. 

But if you’re venturing into the wilderness of Thailand, maybe just try to embrace being off-the-grid and enjoy some disconnection from technology. 

Access Free WiFI

Most tourist destinations have free wifi, as do most hostels and hotels.

It is usually very straightforward and easy to login to free wifi from your phone or laptop, and then you can contact people via iMessage, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. 

While you have free wifi, it can be useful to download a navigation app like Maps.Me so you can use GPS navigation while once you leave the wifi.

Be a Responsible Traveller in Thailand

The best way to be a responsible traveler in Thailand is to learn a bit about the local culture and try your best to adhere to its customs. 

That means always having respect for others. Show respect for other travelers and local Thais, and also show respect for the land.

Don’t litter, avoid buying single-use plastics and try to leave a natural place as pristine as it was when you arrived. 

When booking tours in Thailand, do your research to make sure the tour company is reputable and sustainable.

Choose eco-friendly businesses over others, and try to support local businesses rather than big conglomerates.

Elephant tourism is massive in South East Asia. If you are dying to see elephants in the wild, only visit elephant sanctuaries where the animals are rescued and treated with respect and dignity.

Never ride elephants , and never go to a place where the animals are exploited. 

Overall, just use good judgment. Thailand is grateful for tourism and its contribution to the economy, so travel responsibly while you’re there and help maintain this beautiful country.

Key Thailand Travel Phrases

You don’t have to be fluent in Thai to have a great time when you travel to Thailand. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Thai people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

Keep in mind that In Thai, there are often masculine and feminine forms of a phrase.

So on this list, if you are a male, use the translation listed first, and if you are female use the translation listed second.

Krup  is the word used at the end of many phrases if you are a male, and  ka  is used if you are a female.

Phrases that have  krup/ka  at the end mean you say one or the other, depending on your gender.

Books to Read About Thailand

Maybe you already know everything about Thailand. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Thailand. 

Anna and the King of Siam

This is an amazing true story of an English school teacher who was invited to live in nineteenth-century Siam and care for the children of the nation’s leader, King Mongkut.

The Kingdom of Siam eventually became Thailand, so this is an interesting insight into the history of the area. This book inspired the famous play and movie, The King and I.   Purchase on Amazon

A suspenseful and enticing fiction story, “The Beach” is about a traveler in Bangkok named Richard who hears about the legend of a hidden paradise beach.

He then embarks on a journey to find this secret beach and uncovers dark and mysterious mysteries about the place along the way.

This book was made into a movie starring Leonardo Di Caprio, and Maya Bay from the Phi Phi Islands is shown in the movie.  Buy on Amazon .

The Bridge Over The River Kwai

In the remote town of Kanchanaburi, Thailand, the Thai-Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway, is the area’s biggest attraction.

The novel, ”The Bridge Over The River Kwai”, is a fiction story loosely based on the real story of the Prisoners of War who built this bridge during World War II.  Buy now on Amazon .

Thailand: The Beautiful Cookbook

This is an amazing book to get either before or after visiting Thailand. If you want to learn about the cuisine, the culture, and the traditions of Thailand, this book has so much information that will educate and inspire you.

Or after a trip to Thailand, if you want to savor and remember all the delicious food you ate and recreate the recipes at home, this is a great book to have on hand.  Purchase on Amazon .

Table of Contents

Read our thailand blog posts, 21 best things to do in koh phangan [2024 travel guide], 13 awesome things to do in chiang mai, thailand (2024 guide), keemala phuket review – phuket’s best luxury resort, riding the mae hong son loop – motorbike travel guide, how to visit bangkok’s airplane graveyard, how to become a divemaster in thailand, the ultimate guide to the best food in thailand, the ultimate koh mook, thailand travel guide (2024 edition), 11 activities in thailand for couples who love adventure, 20 epic things to do in chiang rai, thailand (2024 guide), where to stay in phuket – the best hotels for every budget, the best 3 days in phuket itinerary for 2024 (bonus tips).

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20 Best Places to Visit in Thailand — From the Country's Oldest National Park With Secret Waterfalls to Stunning Islands With Excellent Diving

There's no shortage of beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

travel guide on thailand

EPasqualli/Getty Images

Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

Tip: Book a room at the Capella Bangkok or Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — two iconic luxury hotels with stunning locations perched on the Chao Phraya River.

IronHeart/Getty Images

Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

"I would say for anybody, whether it's their first time or a repeat trip to Thailand, if you have been there or you haven't, [you have to visit] Chiang Mai," said Grant Ekelund , Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and senior travel consultant and Asia specialist at InsideAsia. "It's such a neat city. It’s one of those destinations that has something for everyone … Are you a foodie? Do you want to hike? See cool temples? Have amazing trekking opportunities? It can all be done [here], and it slots into any itinerary perfectly."

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene. For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio's character went in search of an island paradise in the film "The Beach," which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

While we’re on the topic of Koh Phi Phi, we’d be remiss not to mention Krabi province as a whole. Located in southern Thailand, bordering the Andaman Sea, Krabi is home to many of the beautiful beaches and islands that make Thailand famous. 

"I've been booking many [trips to] Krabi lately," said Ekelund. "It ticks a lot of boxes for people. You've got the beauty, cool cliffs, and interesting geology. It has a beach, but it's for people who don't want to simply park it on the sand for 10 days. Krabi offers activities and more." Some highlights include the beach town of Ao Nang, as well as islands like Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lipe, Railay Beach, and several national parks.

Koh Yao Noi

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My first trip to Thailand was to the small island of Koh Yao Noi back in 2013. One of the most beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is flecked off the coast of its sibling island, Koh Yao Yai. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages comprise most of the land here, along with the luxe Six Senses Yao Noi resort tucked along the eastern coast. The property’s infinity pool is legendary for its explosive sunrise views that blur the distinction between the sky and sea.

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Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

Boyloso/Getty Images

Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. "Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are," said Ekelund. "We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don't have a city built up around it."

Mae Hong Son Loop

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Of all the places I've visited in Thailand, none stick with me as much as the Mae Hong Son Loop. This 300-mile route is most often tackled by travelers on the back of motorbikes looking to brave the mountain switchbacks that descend into the thick jungle and pass from small village to small village. It's not a journey to be taken lightly — motorbike experience is strongly recommended — but those who make the trip are rewarded with spectacular scenery and access to remote communities.

Khao Yai National Park

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Thailand has more than 100 national parks. The oldest is Khao Yai National Park, which also happens to be the country's third-largest. Within the park lies a web of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, and herds of elephants.

"Khao Yai has a lot of bat caves, too, which is one of the coolest things I've ever experienced," said Ekelund. "I stood there for 30 minutes while an unending stream of bats flew over my head. It was all so beautiful. It's a beautiful park with waterfalls, trekking, and hiking. Plus, it's just a couple of hours [by car] from Bangkok."

wichianduangsri/Getty Images

Approximately two hours southeast of Chiang Mai is the city of Lampang. Much like many large cities in Thailand, Lampang has its fair share of temples, street food, and markets. But unlike the others, it feels like a place where time has stood still. Just listen for the sound of clip-clopping horse carts, still used for transportation, and you'll understand what I mean. Because of Lampang's integral role in the teak trade, many migrants from Myanmar made this northern city home, and you'll find teak mansions and Burmese-style temples everywhere.

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Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. "I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is," said Ekelund. "It's a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It's a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange."

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No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand's largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

Oleh_Slobodeniuk/Getty Images

Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

"It's hard to beat Koh Samui. It's just beautiful," said Ekelund. "If you want easy access without a full resort stay, I recommend Anantara Bophut . You can walk to Fisherman's Village, and you won’t feel like you're 'stuck' at a resort. If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms."

Cavan Images/Getty Images

The tiny island of Koh Tao, located in the Gulf of Thailand and not too far from Koh Samui, is one of the country’s best locations for diving and snorkeling. In fact, most avid divers will tell you that Koh Tao is their destination of choice in Thailand. The palm-fringed island is best known for its abundance of sea turtles.

Kanchanaburi

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Shrouded in thick jungle and sliced by miles of track belonging to what was once known as the “Death Railway,” Kanchanaburi has a dark and tragic history. The infamous train route, which crosses the River Kwai, was built from 1940 to 1943 by prisoners of war taken by the Japanese in World War II. Today, only a small section of the rail route is open and takes travelers on a journey through the mountain cliffs and bamboo forests of Kanchanaburi. "If you're into history, beautiful vistas, trains, and wildlife, you can get all of that in Kanchanaburi. It's a place not many tourists go, either, so it has a lot to offer," said Ekelund.

Tieu Bao Truong/Getty Images

Trang is the province directly south of Krabi, which means it has the same beautiful stretch of Andaman Sea coastline, except with a fraction of the crowds. There’s no shortage of islands to explore around Trang, like Koh Kradan and Koh Muk. Koh Muk's crown jewel is the secret Emerald Cave, which can be entered via a dark tunnel that leads to a protected beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

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Located in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak can be thought of as Phuket’s much quieter cousin. Less than two hours from Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is home to miles of sprawling, empty beaches, plus it offers easy access to beautiful national parks.

"I've been hyping Khao Lak quite a bit for people who want something quieter," said Ekelund. "You have easy access to the Phuket International Airport, but it's much more chill than the other Andaman Islands. It has beautiful beaches, good infrastructure, a great spot for dining, and it’s not hard to get to."

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Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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South of Bangkok, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is best known for the glamorous, frenetic beach town of Hua Hin. The province runs down the skinny arm of the country, bordering the Gulf of Thailand on one side and Myanmar on the other. Here’s where you'll find Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park. The park's top attractions include a series of spectacular caves and a sprawling freshwater marsh. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beaches, islands, walking trails, and thick mangrove forests. It’s just an hour from Hua Hin and about 3.5 hours from Bangkok.

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This long, skinny island, also in the province of Krabi, flies under the radar, but it’s one of my favorite places in the country. Koh Lanta is home to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, an amazing spot for diving and seeing undeveloped beaches.

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With 16 million foreigners flying into the country each year, Thailand is Asia’s primary travel destination and offers a host of places to visit. Travel to Thailand and you’ll find that despite this vast influx of visitors, it’s cultural integrity remains largely undamaged. Thailand is a country that cleverly avoided colonisation has been able to absorb Western influences while maintaining its own rich heritage.

Thailand travel facts

Where to go in thailand.

  • Best time to visit Thailand

How to travel to Thailand

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Though the high-rises and neon lights occupy the foreground of the tourist picture, the typical Thai community is still the farming village, and you need not venture far to encounter a more traditional scene of fishing communities, rubber plantations and Buddhist temples.

Around 40% of Thais earn their living from the land, based around the staple rice, which forms the foundation of the country’s unique and famously sophisticated cuisine.

Tourism has been just one factor in the country’s development which, since the deep-seated uncertainties surrounding the Vietnam War faded, has been free, for the most part, to proceed at death-defying pace – for a time in the 1980s and early 1990s, Thailand boasted the fastest-expanding economy in the world.

Through all the changes of the last sixty years, the much-revered constitutional monarch, King Bhumibol has lent a measure of stability.

Furthermore, some 85 percent of the population are still practising Theravada Buddhists, a unifying faith that colours all aspects of daily life – from the tiered temple rooftops that dominate every skyline, to the omnipresent saffron-robed monks and the packed calendar of festivals.

  • Country name: Divided into 77 provinces or changwat, Thailand was known as Siam until 1939 (and again from 1945 to 1949); some academics suggest changing the name back again, to better reflect the country’s Thai and non-Thai diversity.
  • Population: 63 million, made up of ethnic Thais (75%) and Chinese (14%), with the rest comprising mainly immigrants from neighbouring countries as well as hill-tribespeople.
  • Religion: Buddhism is the national religion, Islam the largest minority religion, but nearly all Thais also practise some form of animism (spirit worship).
  • Leadership: The country has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932.
  • The world record for nonstop kissing was set by two Thai men in Pattaya on Valentine’s Day, 2012, at a gobsmacking 50 hours, 25 minutes and 1 second.

Deciding where to go in Thailand depends on two things: what you want to do, and when you want to go. The varying areas of the country, from North to South offer visitors a selection of sights, activities and experiences. In this travel guide on the best places to visit in Thailand, we unearth where to enjoy the country’s range of activities, from world-class diving to carousing at lively festivals. Once that’s decided, you’ll need to check the best time to visit .

The clash of tradition and modernity is most intense in Bangkok , which forms the first stop on almost any itinerary. Within its historic core you’ll find resplendent temples, canalside markets and the opulent indulgence of the eighteenth-century Grand Palace . Downtown’s forest of skyscrapers shelters cutting-edge fashion in decor boutiques and some achingly hip bars and clubs.

Most budget travellers head for the Banglamphu district, where if you’re not careful you could end up watching DVDs all day long and selling your shoes when you run out of money. The district is far from having a monopoly on Bangkok accommodation, but it does have the advantage of being just a short walk from the major sights in the Ratanakosin area: the dazzling ostentation of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, lively and grandiose Wat Pho and National Museum.

Once those cultural essentials have been seen, you can choose from a whole bevy of lesser sights, including Wat Benjamabophit (the “Marble Temple”), especially at festival time, and Jim Thompson’s House, a small, personal museum of Thai design.

Rough Guides tip: As you plan your trip to Bangkok, make sure to choose the ideal place to stay in the city .

If you’re wondering where to visit in the northern uplands, then start with Chiang Mai . It’s both an attractive historic city and a vibrant cultural centre, with a strong tradition of arts, crafts and festivals.

Self-improvement courses are a strong suit – from ascetic meditation to Thai cookery classes – while the overriding enticement of the surrounding region is the prospect of trekking through villages inhabited by a richly mixed population of tribal peoples.

Plenty of outdoor activities and courses, as well as hot springs and massages, can be enjoyed at Pai , a surprisingly cosmopolitan hill station for travellers, four hours northwest of Chiang Mai.

Many colourful festivals attract throngs of visitors here too: Chiang Mai is one of the most popular places in Thailand to see in the Thai New Year – Songkhran – in mid-April, and to celebrate Loy Krathong at the full moon in November, when thousands of candles are floated down the Ping River in lotus-leaf boats.

Beyond the city limits, a number of other day-trips can be made, such as to the ancient temples of Lamphun – and, of course, Chiang Mai is the main centre for hill-tribe trekking, as well as all sorts of other outdoor activities.

Samui archipelago

The pick of the coasts are in the south, where the Samui archipelago off the Gulf coast ranks as one of the best places to go in Thailand. Ko Samui itself has the most sweeping white-sand beaches, and the greatest variety of accommodation and facilities to go with them.

Ko Pha Ngan next door is still largely backpacker territory, where you have a stark choice between desolate coves and Hat Rin , Thailand’s party capital. The remotest island, rocky Ko Tao , is acquiring increasing sophistication as Southeast Asia’s largest dive-training centre.

Tucked away beneath the islands, Nakhon Si Thammarat, the cultural capital of the south, is well worth a short detour from the main routes through the centre of the peninsula – it’s a sophisticated city of grand old temples, delicious cuisine and distinctive handicrafts.

Central plains

With Chiang Mai and the north so firmly planted on the independent tourist trail, the intervening central plains tend to get short shrift. Yet there is rewarding trekking around Umphang , near the Burmese border, and the elegant ruins of former capitals Ayutthaya and Sukhothai embody a glorious artistic heritage, displaying Thailand’s distinctive ability to absorb influences from quite different cultures.

Even if you’re just passing through, you can’t miss the star attraction of Nakhon Pathom: the enormous stupa Phra Pathom Chedi dominates the skyline.

To get an idea of what shopping in Bangkok used to be like before all the canals were tarmacked over, many people take an early-morning trip to the floating market ( talat khlong ) at Damnoen Saduak. Sixty kilometres south of Nakhon Pathom and just over a hundred kilometres from Bangkok.

The Andaman Coast

Across on the other side of the peninsula, the Andaman coast offers even more exhilarating scenery and the finest coral reefs in the country, in particular around the Ko Similan island chain, which ranks among the best dive sites in the world.

The largest Andaman coast island, Phuket , is one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations and graced with a dozen fine beaches, though several have been overdeveloped with a glut of high-rises and tacky nightlife.

Beautiful little Ko Phi Phi is a major party hub, surrounded by the turquoise seas and dramatic limestone cliffs that characterize the coastline throughout Krabi province . Large, forested Ko Lanta is, for the moment at least, a calmer alternative for families, but for genuine jungle you’ll need to head inland, to the rainforests of Khao Sok National Park .

Further down the Thai peninsula, in the provinces of the deep south , the teeming sea life and unfrequented sands of the Trang islands and Ko Tarutao National Marine Park make this one of Thailand’s top places to go. There’s now the intriguing possibility of island-hopping your way down through them – in fact, all the way from Phuket to Penang in Malaysia – without setting foot on the mainland.

The greatest interest in the deep south is currently all over on the beautiful west coast, where sheer limestone outcrops, pristine sands and fish-laden coral stretch down to the Malaysian border.

Along Trang’s mainland coast, there’s a 30km stretch of attractive beaches, dotted with mangroves and impressive caves that can be explored by sea canoe, but the real draw down here is the offshore islands, which offer gorgeous panoramas and beaches, great snorkelling and at least a modicum of comfort in their small clusters of resorts.

Khao Yai National Park

Another regular in lists of the best places to go in Thailand, Khao Yai National Park – the country’s first national park – encapsulates the phenomenal diversity of Thailand’s flora and fauna. It’s one of the very few national parks to maintain a network of hiking trails that visitors can explore by themselves, passing dramatic waterfalls, orchids and an abundance of wildlife.

Spanning five distinct forest types and rising to a height of 1,351m, the park sustains over 300 bird and twenty large land-mammal species – hence its UNESCO accreditation as a World Heritage Site.

Rangers discourage visitors from exploring the outer, non-waymarked reaches unguided, partly for environmental reasons, but also because of trigger-happy sandalwood poachers. Sandalwood trees are indigenous to Khao Yai, and though oil collection does not usually kill the tree, it does weaken it. Guides can point out trees that have been cut in this way along the trails.

Few tourists visit Isaan , the poorest and in some ways the most traditionally Thai region. Here, a trip through the gently modulating landscapes of the Mekong River valley, which defines Thailand’s northeastern extremities.

It takes in archetypal agricultural villages and a fascinating array of religious sites, while the southern reaches of Isaan hold some of Thailand’s best-kept secrets – the magnificent stone temple complexes of Phimai , Phanom Rung and Khao Phra Viharn , all built by the Khmers of Cambodia almost ten centuries ago.

We may have already mentioned the Andaman Coast, but Phuket is worth looking at in greater detail. Thailand’s largest island and a province in its own right, Phuket is the wealthiest province in Thailand, with tourism driving the economy.

Some tourist developments have scarred much of the island, however, many of the beaches are still strikingly handsome, resort facilities are second to none, and the offshore snorkelling and diving are exceptional.

If you’re after a peaceful spot, aim for the 17km-long national park beach of Hat Mai Khao, its more developed neighbour Hat Nai Yang, or one of the smaller alternatives at Hat Nai Thon or Hat Kamala.

Despite over a million visitors a year, Ko Samui remains a top places to go in Thailand. Back-packers to bougie fortnighters come to this part of southern Thailand for the beautiful beaches. At 15km across and down, Samui is generally large enough to cope with this diversity and the paradisal sands and clear blue seas have kept their good looks.

The island’s most appealing strand, Chaweng, has seen the heaviest, most crowded development and is now the most expensive place to stay, though it does offer by far the best amenities and nightlife. Its slightly smaller neighbour, Lamai, lags a little behind in terms of looks and top-end development, but retains large pockets of backpacker bungalow resorts.

The other favourite for backpackers is Maenam, which, though less attractive again, is markedly quiet, with plenty of room to breathe between the beach and the round-island road.

Discover more places in Thailand

night-market-bangkok-thailand-shutterstock_402708196

  • Southern Thailand: the Andaman coast Travel Guide
  • The east coast Travel Guide
  • The north Travel Guide
  • Southern Thailand: the Gulf coast Travel Guide

The weather in Thailand is split into three seasons: rainy (roughly May–Oct) cool (Nov–Feb) and hot (March–May).

The rains usually builds momentum between June and August, hitting its peak in September and October. The cool season is when travelling in Thailand is most pleasant, though temperatures can still reach a sticky 30°C. In the hot season, you’re best of hitting the beach.

So, the best time to go to Thailand is the cool seasons: more manageable temperatures and less rain, it offers waterfalls in full spate and the best of the upland flowers in bloom. Bear in mind, however, that it’s also the busiest season.

Thailand currently has seven main international airports: Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang), Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui. The vast majority of people travelling to Thailand fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Air fares to Thailand generally depend on the season, with the highest being approximately mid-November to mid-February, when the weather is best, and in July and August to coincide with school holidays. You will need to book several months in advance to get reasonably priced tickets during these peak periods.

The cheapest way of getting to most regional Thai airports is usually to buy a flight to Bangkok and then a separate domestic ticket. However, there are dozens of potentially useful, mostly seasonal, international routes into Phuket, including direct flights with several airlines from Australia.

Most international flights into Chiang Mai, Krabi, Ko Samui and Don Muang are from Malaysia, Singapore and China (including Hong Kong and Macau). Krabi also handles seasonal, mostly charter flights from Scandinavia, while Korean Airlines from Seoul is a popular route for North American visitors into Chiang Mai Airport, which has links with Myanmar and Laos too.

Travel in Thailand is largely cheap, easy and efficient – though not always speedy. For instance, long-distance journeys on land can be arduous, especially if a tight budget means you’re sat in the unforgiving second-class seats and there’s no air con.

That said, the many transport options available makes getting around Thailand a whole lot easier than elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Buses are speedy, inexpensive and frequent, and can be quite luxurious.

Trains are slower, but safer and, there’s more chance to sleep during an overnight trip. It’s also worth nothing that if you’re travelling by day you’re more likely to follow a scenic route by rail than by road.

Songthaews (literally “two rows”) – open-ended vans with as many people squashed into the back as possible – supplement the bus network, especially in rural areas. Slightly more comfortable are share-taxis and air-conditioned mini-buses which connect many of the major towns and cities.

Discover more domestic transport options and how to get around Thailand .

Here is our Thailand travel guide condensed into 15 unmissable Thai destinations:

You could spend a year in Thailand's capital and still not tick off all the boxes. There are a few absolute must-sees though. Start with Wat Pho, a lively and lavish temple, encompassing the awesome Reclining Buddha. Move onto the Grand Palace, which encompasses the country’s holiest and most beautiful temple, Wat Phra Kaeo. Then the markets…

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is the region’s major resort destination for families, package tourists and novice divers. Its dining, shopping and entertainment facilities are second to none. Phuket Town offers handsome Sino-Portuguese architecture and some of the most interesting sleeping, eating and drinking options on the island.

The furthest inhabited island of the Samui archipelago, Ko Tao, has taken off as a scuba-diving centre, but despite a growing nightlife and restaurant scene, still has the feel of a small, rugged and isolated outcrop. A boat-trip round Ko Tao Satisfying exploration and great snorkelling, especially off the unique causeway beaches of Ko Nang Yuan.

Southern Thailand’s gently undulating Gulf coast is famed above all for the Samui archipelago, three small, idyllic islands lying off the most prominent hump of the coastline. A lazy stay in a beachfront bungalow is so seductive a prospect that most people overlook the attractions of the mainland. Added to that you’ll find scenery dominated by forested mountains that rise abruptly behind the coastal strip, and a sprinkling of fascinating historic sights.

Old-town temples, the best of Thai crafts, cookery courses and fine restaurants – the north’s sophisticated capital is a great place to hang out. The capital and transport centre of the north, it's also a great place just to hang out or prepare for a journey into the hills. For many tourists, this means joining a trek to visit one or more of the hill tribes, who comprise one-tenth of the north’s population.

In the last few years Chiang Rai has acquired several genuine sights of interest, notably the Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park, a beautiful storehouse of Lanna art. There’s now also a good choice of guesthouses and upmarket riverside hotels in which to lay your head, and from here you can set up a wide range of trekking, day-trips and other outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside.

In recent years, backpackers have tended to move over to Ko Samui’s fun-loving little sibling, which still has a comparatively simple atmosphere. The most popular activities on Ko Pha Ngan are round-island boat trips, from Hat Rin and Hat Yao, and trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park. Other activities include learning to cook Thai food, bicycle tours, yoga, meditation and kiteboarding.

The “island of long beaches”, Ko Lanta has an atmospheric old town, offers an appealing choice of places to stay. There’s good snorkelling and diving nearby, plus caves to explore, kayaking and other water sports. The island is especially popular with families, in part because of the local laws that have so far prevented jet-skis, beachfront parasols and girlie bars from turning it into another Phuket, though resort facilities are expanding fast.

Ko Samui is easily one of the most naturally beautiful Thai islands, with its long white-sand beaches and arching fringes of palm trees. Samui has over a dozen scuba-diving companies, offering trips for divers and snorkellers and courses throughout the year. Also on offer are plenty of spas, as well as meditation retreats, island tours, ziplines, kiteboarding and cooking classes.

The stunning jungle-clad karsts of Khao Sok National Park are well worth heading inland for. Located about halfway between the southern peninsula’s two coasts and easily accessible from Khao Lak, Phuket and Surat Thani, the park has become a popular stop on the travellers’ route, offering a number of easy trails, a bit of amateur spelunking and some scenic rafthouse accommodation on Cheow Lan Lake.

Protected from the ravages of the Andaman Sea by Phuket, Ao Phang Nga has a seascape both bizarre and beautiful. Covering some four hundred square kilometres of coast between Phuket and Krabi, the mangrove-edged bay is spiked with limestone karst formations up to 300m in height, jungle-clad and craggily profiled. This is Thailand’s own version of Vietnam’s world-famous Ha Long Bay, reminiscent too of Guilin’s scenery in China, and much of it is now preserved as national park.

Located in an idyllic spot in Phang Nga bay, almost equidistant from Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, the island of Ko Yao Noi enjoys magnificent maritime views from almost every angle and makes a refreshingly tranquil getaway. Measuring about 12km at its longest point, it’s home to some four thousand islanders, the vast majority of them Muslim, who earn their living from rubber and coconut plantations, fishing and shrimp-farming.

The fourth-largest island in Thailand, forested Ko Kood (also spelt Ko Kut and Ko Kud) is still a wild and largely uncommercialised island. Though it’s known for its sparkling white sand and exceptionally clear turquoise water, particularly along the west coast, Ko Kood is as much a nature-lover’s destination as a beach-bum’s. Swathes of its shoreline are fringed by scrub and mangrove rather than broad sandy beaches, and those parts of the island not still covered in virgin tropical rainforest are filled with palm groves and rubber plantations.

Blessed with the softest, squeakiest sand within weekending distance of Bangkok, the tiny Thai island of Ko Samet, which measures just 6km from top to toe, is a favourite escape for Thais, expats and tourists. Its fourteen small but dazzlingly white beaches are breathtakingly beautiful, lapped by pale blue water and in places still shaded by coconut palms and occasional white-flowered cajeput (samet) trees, which gave the island its name and which are used to build boats.

Ringed by high mountains, the small but prosperous provincial capital of Nan, 225km northeast of Lampang, rests on the grassy west bank of the river. Few Western visitors make it out this far, but it’s a likeable place with a thriving handicrafts tradition, a good museum and some superb temple murals at Wat Phumin, as well as at Wat Nong Bua out in the countryside. The town comes alive for the Lanna boat races, usually held in late October or early November.

We’ve curated a series of itineraries that span Thailand, from running the rapids in the northern mountains to lazy beach stays in the Andaman archipelagos.

Travel ideas for Thailand, created by local experts

Chiang Mai Safari Adventure

Chiang Mai Safari Adventure

The perfect trip for some family fun and adventure, lovely Chiang Mai with its lush valleys and national parks ticks all the boxes. Expect majestic cliff-top temples, sprawling national parks and exciting safari adventures.

Thailand's Islands and Highlands

Thailand's Islands and Highlands

Experience the best of Thailand as you discover glitzy Bangkok's temples, markets and waterways. Compare the bustling, lively capital with the glorious rolling hills and lush interior of mountainous Chiang Mai before heading south to beach bliss and unexpected cultural delights in hedonistic Phuket.

Thailand Discovery

Thailand Discovery

A great way to discover Thailand, take in the Central Plain and Bangkok, the north with Chiang Mai and the south at the lively resort of Phuket.

Bangkok-Pattaya Explorer

Bangkok-Pattaya Explorer

The perfect trip for adventurers, sun seekers and lovers of island life: take in cosmopolitan Bangkok’s wats or temples, street markets and waterways. Witness the excitement of Bangkok before heading to Thailand’s east coast for island-hopping in the sunshine.

Pattaya Sun

Pattaya Sun

The sandy beaches and tiny offshore islands, dense forests and hidden waterfalls are a natural draw to Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. Pattaya abounds with activities – from watersports to international-standard golf courses.

Chiang Mai Sustainable Trails

Chiang Mai Sustainable Trails

Chiang Mai offers a balmy escape from Bangkok’s humidity. Regarded as the cultural heart of the country, come here for nature, lovely Lanna-style temples, museums and the infamous night bazaar.

So, whether you want to come closer to superlative nature, satisfy your appetite for Thailand’s varied and colourful cuisine, or keep things low-key on a paradise island, this lineup of Thailand travel guides will see you navigate this incredible country with ease.

For the simplest double room while travelling in Thailand, prices start at a bargain B150 in the outlying regions, around B200 in Bangkok, and B400 in the pricier resorts. Tourist centres invariably offer a tempting range of more upmarket choices but in these areas rates fluctuate according to demand.

Most of Thailand’s budget accommodation is in guesthouses and bungalows. These are small, traveller-friendly hotels whose services nearly always include an inexpensive restaurant, wi-fi and safe storage for valuables and left luggage, and often a tour desk.

Thailand travel sales reps and other people travelling for business rather than pleasure rarely use guest-houses, opting instead for budget hotels, which offer rooms for around B150–600. Usually run by Chinese-Thais, these functional three- or four-storey places are found in every sizeable town, often near the bus station or central market.

The rest of the accommodation picture is all about tourist hotels, which, like anywhere in the world, come in all sizes and qualities and are often best booked via online discount accommodation booking services such as local outfit sawadee.com . One way or another, it’s a good idea to reserve ahead in popular tourist areas during peak season.

As guesthouses have become increasingly hotel-like and commercial in their facilities and approach, many tourists looking for old-style local hospitality are choosing homestay accommodation instead. Homestays give an unparalleled insight into typical Thai (usually rural) life and can often be incorporated into a programme that includes experiencing village activities.

Thai food is one of the biggest reasons for the country’s popularity with tourists. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the country’s big culinary centres, offering the cream of gourmet Thai restaurants and the best international cuisines. The rest of the country is by no means a gastronomic wasteland, however, and you can eat well and cheaply in even the smallest provincial towns, many of which offer the additional attraction of regional specialities.

In fact, visit Thailand and you’ll find that you could eat more than adequately without ever entering a restaurant, as itinerant food vendors hawking hot and cold snacks materialise in even the most remote spots, as well as on trains and buses – and night markets often serve customers from dusk till dawn.

Hygiene is a consideration when eating anywhere in Thailand, but being too cautious means you’ll end up spending a lot of money and missing out on some real local treats. Wean your stomach gently by avoiding excessive amounts of chillies and too much fresh fruit in the first few days.

You can be pretty sure that any noodle stall or curry shop that’s permanently packed with customers is a safe bet. Furthermore, because most Thai dishes can be cooked in under five minutes, you’ll rarely have to contend with stuff that’s been left to smoulder and stew.

Many travellers’ itineraries take in a few days’ trekking in the hills and a stint snorkelling or diving off the beaches of the south. Trekking is concentrated in the north, but there are smaller, less touristy trekking operations in Kanchanaburi, Sangkhlaburi and Umphang. There are also plenty of national parks to explore and opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking.

Diving in Thailand

Clear, warm waters (averaging 28°C), prolific marine life and affordable prices make Thailand a very rewarding place for diving and snorkelling.

Most islands and beach resorts have at least one dive centre that organises trips. Thailand’s premier diving destinations are generally considered to be Ko Similan, Ko Surin, Richelieu Rock and Hin Muang and Hin Daeng – all of them off the Andaman coast.

Thailand’s main dive resorts

  • Ko Pha Ngan

Snorkeling in Thailand

Boatmen and tour agents on most beaches offer snorkelling trips to nearby reefs and many dive operators welcome snorkelers to tag along for discounts of thirty percent or more; not all diving destinations are rewarding for snorkelers though, so check the relevant account in this book first.

Trekking in Thailand

Trekking in the mountains of north Thailand differs from trekking in most other parts of the world in that the emphasis is not primarily on the scenery but on the region’s inhabitants. While some of the villages are near enough to a main road to be reached on a day-trip from a major town, to get to the other, more traditional villages usually entails joining a guided party for a few days.

For most visitors, however, these hardships are outweighed by the experience of encountering people of such different cultures, travelling through tropical countryside. Here’s our take on some of Thailand’s best trekking routes .

Rock climbing

The limestone karsts that pepper southern Thailand’s Andaman coast make ideal playgrounds for rock-climbers, and the sport has really taken off here in the past fifteen years. Most climbing is centred round East Railay and Ton Sai beaches on Laem Phra Nang in Krabi province, where there are dozens of routes within easy walking distance of tourist bungalows, restaurants and beaches.

Sea kayaking and whitewater rafting

Sea kayaking is also centred around Thailand’s Andaman coast, where the limestone outcrops, sea caves, hongs (hidden lagoons), mangrove swamps and picturesque shorelines of Ao Phang Nga in particular make for rewarding paddling.

Entertainment and sport in Thailand

Bangkok is the best place to catch authentic performances of classical Thai dance, though more easily digestible tourist-oriented shows are staged in some of the big tourist centres as well as in Bangkok. The country’s two main Thai boxing stadia are also in the capital, but you’ll come across local matches in the provinces too.

Spas and traditional massage in Thailand

With their focus on indulgent self-pampering, spas are usually associated with high-spending tourists, but the treatments on offer at Thailand’s five-star hotels are often little different from those used by traditional medical practitioners, who have long held that massage and herbs are the best way to restore physical and mental well-being.

Thai massage ( nuad boran ) is based on the principle that many physical and emotional problems are caused by the blocking of vital energy channels within the body.

Spectacular archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, generally visited on a day-trip from Ko Samui or Ko Pha Ngan.

Waterfalls, hill tribes, orchids, around four hundred bird species and the country’s highest peak.

An exceptionally pretty, seven-tiered waterfall that extends deep into the forest. Hugely popular as a day-trip from Kanchanaburi.

Coastal flats on the Gulf coast known for their rich birdlife plus an extensive stalactite-filled cave system.

Southern Thailand’s most visited park has rainforest trails and caves plus a flooded river system with eerie outcrops and raft-house accommodation.

Thailand’s most popular national park, three hours from Bangkok, features half a dozen upland trails plus organized treks and night safaris.

Remote group of Andaman Sea islands with famously fabulous reefs and fine above-water scenery. Mostly visited by dive boat but limited national park accommodation is provided.

National marine park archipelago of beautiful coastal waters in the Andaman Sea, though much of its coral became severely bleached in 2010. Good snorkelling and national park campsites.

Beautiful and wildly varied land- and seascapes on the main 26km-long island and fifty other smaller islands on its western side.

Dramatic and strange 1300m-high plateau, probably best avoided at weekends.

Nearly all Thai festivals have a religious aspect. The most theatrical are generally Brahmin (Hindu) in origin, honouring elemental spirits and deities with ancient rites and ceremonial costumed parades.

Buddhist celebrations usually revolve round the local temple, and while merit-making is a significant feature, a light-hearted atmosphere prevails, as the wat grounds are swamped with food and trinket vendors and makeshift stages are set up to show likay folk theatre, singing stars and beauty contests.

Many of the secular festivals (like the elephant roundups and the Bridge over the River Kwai spectacle) are outdoor local culture shows, geared specifically towards Thai and farang tourists. Here’s what you need to know on when to go .

Travel advice for Thailand

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Thailand

  • Getting around Thailand: Transportation Tips
  • Khao Sok National Park
  • Eating and drinking in Thailand
  • How to get to Thailand
  • Travel Tips Thailand for planning and on the go

From costs and climate to tipping to taxes, this Thailand travel guide has all the advice you’ll need to stay safe and happy.

Visiting Thailand for most Western passport holders (that includes citizens of the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa) is simple as they’re allowed to enter the country for short stays without having to apply for a visa.

Visa requirements for extended trips in Thailand are subject to frequent change, so you should always consult before departure a Thai embassy or consulate, a reliable travel agent, or the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website at wmfa.go.th .

Top image: Thai khon dancers © saravutpics/Shutterstock

There’s no standard system of transliterating Thai script into Roman, so you’re sure to find that the Thai words in this book don’t always match the versions you’ll see elsewhere. Maps and street signs are the biggest sources of confusion, so we’ve generally gone for the transliteration that’s most common on the spot; where it’s a toss-up between two equally popular versions, we’ve used the one that helps best with pronunciation. However, sometimes you’ll need to do a bit of lateral thinking, bearing in mind that a classic variant for the town of Ayutthaya is Ayudhia, while among street names, Thanon Rajavithi could come out as Thanon Ratwithi – and it’s not unheard of to find one spelling posted at one end of a road, with another at the opposite end.

Although the vast majority of Thais are Buddhist, nearly everyone also believes that the physical world is inhabited by spirits . These spirits can cause trouble if not given enough care and attention, and are apt to wreak havoc when made homeless. Therefore, whenever a new building is constructed – be it a traditional village house or a multistorey office block – the owners will also construct a home for the spirits who previously occupied that land. Crucially, these spirit houses must be given the best spot on the site – which in Bangkok often means on the roof – and must also reflect the status of the building in question, so their architecture can range from the simplest wooden structure to an elaborate scale model of a particularly ornate temple or even a sleek little icon of modernism. Daily offerings of flowers, incense and candles are set inside the spirit house, sometimes with morsels of food.

Such is the national obsession with muay thai , or Thai boxing, that when Wijan Ponlid returned home from the Sydney 2000 Olympics with the country’s only gold medal (for international flyweight boxing), he was paraded through town at the head of a procession of 49 elephants, given a new house and over 20 million baht, and offered a promotion in the police force. Belatedly perhaps, muay thai has recently entered the canon of martial-arts cinema: Ong Bak (2003), Tom Yum Goong (2005) and their various sequels were global box-office hits, and their all-punching, all-kicking star, Tony Jaa, who performed all his own stunts, has been appointed Cultural Ambassador for Thailand.

Though there are boxing venues all around the country, the very best fights are staged at Bangkok’s two biggest stadiums, Rajdamnoen and Lumphini, and are well worth attending as a cultural experience even if you have no interest in the sport itself (see The media & Thai boxing).

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 05.06.2024

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Thailand Travel Guide

Your ultimate thailand travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in thailand. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Known for its famous cuisine, Thailand is also a country full of history and culture and home to many sacred sites and temples.

Add in plenty of shopping venues (both on land and on the water), friendly locals, and many natural wonders like beaches, lagoons, and caves, and it all makes a memorable trip.

There are many things to see and do in Thailand.

This Thailand travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Thailand

  • Currency: The official currency is the Thai baht and 1 baht is equal to 0.032 USD.
  • Power: Power voltage is 220 V at 50 Hz.
  • Visa:  To enter, you will need a U.S. passport valid for 6 months after your departure date and a return plane ticket. You can stay for 30 days without a visa.
  • Getting Around The best way to get around Thailand is by bus or train.
  • Sales tax The sales tax rate is 7%.
  • The Capital City of Thailand is Bangkok

Things to See and Do in Thailand

  • Climb in Railay  – We went Rock Climbing in Railay for the first time in 2000 and each time we go back to Thailand we climb, King Klimbers and Hot Rocks are our go-to shops. 
  • Go Sea Kayaking   – through the Hongs of Phuket
  • Volunteer or  visit an Elephant Sanctuary
  • Take Part in Songkran  – It’s the world’s largest water fight. Actually, it’s the Thai New Year and they ring it in in style with a lot of water. 
  • Take a Muay Thai Kickboxing Course  – Sign up for a month and really delve into the culture.
  • Take a Cooking Class –  Thai food  is a favourite around the world and cooking courses are popular around the country. Sign up for a multi-day course to really get to know the cuisine.=
  • Beaches  – Thailand has the most beautiful beaches in the world. Places like Phuket and Kho Samui are popular with the tourists but there are many other beaches like Railay and Ao Nang in Krabi, Kho Lanta and Kho Lipe near the Malaysian Border. 
  • Tip: avoid Pattaya Beach it’s overrun and just downright depressing. 
  • Bridge on the River Kwai – Made famous by the movie it was a strategic location during WWII. There is a war memorial here for soldiers who were kept as POWs in unbearable conditions.

Thailand Travel Guides

  • Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand
  • The Best Things to do in Koh Samui
  • Best Things to do in Krabi
  • Best Things to do in Phuket
  • 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
  • Loy Krathong and Yi Peng – A Guide to The Lantern Festivals of Chiang Mai

Accommodation

Budget: You can find a number of backpacker hostels in the range of 250-700 baht per night. Enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms, shared kitchens, lounge areas, free Wi-Fi, and great locations.

Mid Range: For mid-range hotels, expect to pay 1,500-2,750 baht per night and enjoy private rooms, free breakfast, an outdoor pool, a hotel restaurant and bar, a gym, and nearby attractions.

High End: Upscale hotels will range from 3,00-12,000 baht per night, with the mostluxurious going all the way up to 76,500 baht. Take in the best of Thailand with top-of-the-line hospitality, polished rooms, and suites with flat-screen TVs, beautiful hotel architecture, rooftop pools overlooking the city, multiple dining options, fitness centers,tennis courts, and more.

If you are starting your trip in Bangkok check out our suggestions for where to stay in Bangkok.

Thai cuisine favors rice, noodles, nam pla (fish sauce), vegetables and fruits, seafood or meat, and herbs and spices. Pad Thai is one of the national dishes in Thailand.

Soups and curries, with various combinations, are also popular dishes. Thailand has many street vendors where you can sample great Thailand cuisine.

When out and about, try some mango sticky rice or banana roti (banana pancake). Expect to pay 90-150 baht per meal when dining in a restaurant.

The Best Ways to Get Around Thailand

Getting to thailand:.

Getting to Thailand: The Suvarnabhumi International Airport is the main airport to fly into and is about 19 miles from Bangkok. The Phuket International Airport (20 miles from Phuket city center) and the Chiang Mai International Airport (2 miles from the city center of Chiang Mai) are alternatives.

You can check for the best flights to Thailand on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Transportation: Trains are a fast way to get around, especially the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok. Tickets cost 16-59 baht depending on how many stations you pass through, or you can pay 120 baht to get a one-day pass with unlimited rides. The Skytrain runs from 6:30 AM to midnight and passes by many attractions, including more rural areas

Buses : are a good way to get around and travel through most parts of the country. Pay just 7 baht for shorter rides or 9-19 baht for air-conditioned buses that cover longer distances.

Taxis:   Taxis are an alternative way to get around. In major cities like Bangkok, the taxis are metered, and prices start at 35 baht, with 2 baht being added per kilometer traveled

Car Rental:   To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a U.S. license that you have held for at least one year prior. Prices start at 700 baht per day

When to go To Thailand

When to visit Thailand: Thailand mainly has two seasons, wet and dry.

Thailand’s high season is November to February.  This is when it is the driest but this is also when you’ll be swarmed with the most tourists.

Southern Thailand is hot all year long, but has a very wet rainy season:

The West Coast of Southern Thailand is wet between April to October.

The East Coast is wet from September to December.

June to October is the rainy season and temperatures soar with high humidity.

Northern Thailand’s dry season stretches from November to May.

Temperatures are less hot between October and January and can actually be a little cool in the North especially in the evening and early morning.

Where to Stay in Thailand

Hansar Hotel Bangkok : This five-star hotel in the Pathum Wan District of Bangkok is the place to be. Enjoy private suites with glass showers, an infinity pool and hot tub, a hotel restaurant and bar with live music, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast and room service. Shopping centers and the Lumphini Park are nearby.

Royal Phuket City Hotel : Just a short trip to the Tiger Kingdom animal park and Wat Chalong temple, and a short walk to the Trickeye Museum, this four-star hotel is the place to stay in Phuket. Enjoy private rooms with sea views, a day spa, the hotel’s three restaurants, a karaoke lounge, and a rooftop pool, plus more.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and Air B&B for the best deals on accommodation in Ireland.

Thailand Accommodation Guides

  • Where to Stay in Bangkok – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
  • The Best Things to do in Pai Thailand

What to Pack for Thailand

We have been back numerous times and have come up with these Thailand travel tips to help you pack right.

That being said, you don’t have to pack a lot to travel to Thailand, it is always hot! And whatever you don’t have, you can buy there, but here are our top suggestions for things to have while traveling in Thailand.

You can basically live in a bathing suit and flip-flops, although the cities are getting quite chic so it’s nice to dress up too.

Pack lightweight breathable clothing.

Thailand is hot and humid. You won’t need a lot of heavy clothing. A bathing suit, shorts, t-shirts.

Hiking boots or shoes are good for jungle and mountain treks

  • Sarongs  – these can be used for anything. From covering up when visiting temples, being used as a towel or keeping cool on a hot night while using it as a light sheet. Check out our  Many Uses of the Simple Sarong  for more suggestions.
  • Ladies, make sure to pack a light long-sleeved blouse for entering temples. A skirt is a good idea for the same reason, although I often just tie a sarong around my shorts.
  • Flip Flops  – Flip Flops, Thongs, Jandals…whatever you call them in your part of the world, flip-flops are a must for Thailand. They are easy to slip on and off when entering temples. Since the weather is so warm, you don’t need a lot of footwear unless you are going for hikes. If you are planning on hikes, pack some lightweight hiking boots.
  • Backpacks  – We prefer a backpack to a suitcase for Thailand as you’ll be on boats, tuk-tuks, motorcycles and trains. Backpacks are easier to carry and you don’t have to roll them through the sand of Thailand’s amazing beaches. We buy a lot of our clothing in Thailand. The fabric is lightweight and perfect for the weather.

Thailand Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

  • Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
  • Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
  • VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
  • Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
  • Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
  • Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
  • Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
  • World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Thailand Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Thailand  click here .

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The Best Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

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32 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

32 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

Global Gallivanting

My complete thailand travel guide: tips for 2024.

longtail boats thailand travel guide

Thailand is one of my all-time favourite travel destinations and a place I keep returning to again and again.

There’s so much to love about ‘the Land of Smiles’ from glittering golden temples and buzzing night markets, to stunning tropical islands.

Add in the welcoming people, ease of travel, affordable prices, and delicious food and it’s no wonder that Thailand is on most people’s bucket lists – it’s the perfect introduction to Southeast Asia.

My Thailand Travel Guide

the complete thailand travel guide

I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over this amazing country and have lived in Koh Phangan, Chiang Mai and Phuket, so I know my way around and want to help you fall in love with Thailand like I have.

My Thailand Travel Guide is a great place to start if you’re planning a trip to Thailand. I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Thailand, from where to go, what to do, how to get around and many more travel tips to help you make the most of your time.

Why I Love Thailand

anna on beach in koh phangan

This tropical paradise really has everything you could want in an easy package, from natural beauty to culture, history and food – it’s the best place to visit in Asia.

Here’s some of the reasons I love Thailand and why I think it deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list:

  • Stunning Tropical Landscapes: From lush rainforests home to waterfalls and elephants, to tropical islands surrounded by turquoise waters filled with colourful marine life, Thailand has no end of natural beauty to explore.
  • Rich Culture and History: Thailand has an interesting and unique cultural heritage with ancient Buddhist temples, colorful festivals, and uniquely Thai traditions.
  • Delicious Food: Thai cuisine is renowned worldwide for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients and lively, affordable street food scene.
  • Affordable Prices: Thailand offers amazing value for money with plenty of options for good quality yet budget-friendly accommodation, meals, and activities.
  • Warm Hospitality: Known as the “Land of Smiles,” Thai people are friendly and welcoming and have a laid-back attitude.
  • Easy of Travel: Thailand is a well developed tourist destination which makes traveling comfortable, easy and convenient.

Another thing I love about Thailand is that is really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget looking for adventure, a family wanting a fun and affordable vacation, or a couple seeking a relaxing and luxurious escape, Thailand is always a great choice.

How to Get to Thailand

long tail boat thailand island hopping

Let’s start off this Thailand guide with the basics. Getting to Thailand is easy with direct flights available from many major cities around the world.

Most travelers start their Thailand trip by flying into Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK.) This is Thailand’s main international airport but Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Koh Samui also have international airports.

The Thai capital has two airports – Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the main long-haul international airport while Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is the hub for low-cost carriers offering flights within Thailand and other cities in Asia. There is a free shuttle between the two but allow plenty of time to connect.

Direct flights from the UK and Europe take around 12 hours, while flights from the US and Canada can take anywhere between 17 to 24 hours with one stop.

Connecting flights through nearby Singapore or Kuala Lumpur are a popular option that can save you money. If you are already traveling around Southeast Asia you can also take a train or bus from neighboring countries like Malaysia , Laos or Cambodia.

If you’re looking for the best deals on flights, use flight search engines such as Skyscanner and WayAway to compare prices, airlines and routes to find the best option. Being flexible with dates and travel times can also help you save money.

Once in Thailand, it’s easy and affordable to travel around the country by plane, train, bus, boat and taxi. You can book your transport online at 12 Go Asia.

Entry Requirements for Thailand

Bangkok's grand palace is one of the best places to visit in Thailand

Entering Thailand is pretty easy and stress-free, but before embarking on your Thailand adventure it’s important to be aware of the entry essentials such as visa and vaccination requirements.

Since 15 July 2024 the list of nationalities and length of visa exemption has been extended. 

For travelers of most nationalities, a tourist visa is not required for stays of up to 60 days in Thailand. This is called a visa exemption and it can be extended by a further 30 days at an immigration office in Thailand (for a fee) if you wish to stay longer.

If you plan on staying longer, or are participating in any paid work or business activities, you will need to apply for a visa beforehand. The type of visa required will depend on your specific circumstances and nationality so it’s best to check with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country for more information.

Vaccinations and Customs

At the time of writing proof of Covid-19 vaccination or quarantine is no longer required but always double-check the most up to date information before travel.

If you are traveling from a country with a high risk of yellow fever, a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.

Consult with your healthcare provider for any additional recommended vaccinations before your trip.

It’s important to note that strict customs regulations apply when entering Thailand. Some items such as vapes or e-cigarettes, drugs, weapons, and pornography are prohibited.

It’s important to note that entry requirements can change so keep up to date with the latest news and current requirements at the Tourism Authority of Thailand. 

Traveling Around Thailand

bangkok grand palace and tuk tuk

Traveling around Thailand is easy and affordable with plenty of reliable options. Most can be booked online on 12 Go Asia and you should also consider downloading the Grab App for taxis and food delivery.

Thailand has an extensive domestic flight network, making it quick and easy to travel between major cities and popular tourist destinations. The main airlines are Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Air Asia for budget flights.

A comfortable way to travel longer distances in Thailand is by train. The country has a good railway network that connects major cities.

Train travel is affordable, eco-friendly and comfortable, with options for both overnight and day trips.

The overnight train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is very popular so make sure to book your tickets well in advance on 12 Go Asia to secure your berth. To get to the islands travel south to Chumphon station.

Train travel in Thailand offers a relaxing and interesting way to see the country and meet local people but note that trains can sometimes be slower than buses.

Thailand also has an extensive, modern bus network that connects all major cities and even smaller rural areas. You can choose between air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses, with prices varying accordingly.

Buses are a great way to travel long distances on a budget and can sometimes be faster than trains. Overnight buses are a popular option.

Boats and Ferries

Thailand has many beautiful islands that can only be reached by boat. There are plenty of options, from public ferries to speedboats or traditional long-tail boats. If you’re prone to seasickness, opt for a slower ferry ride instead of a speedboat.

Taxis, Tuk-Tuks, and Songthaews (shared taxis)

These are the most common forms of transportation in cities and towns. Songthaews are like shared taxis that you can flag down. To avoid haggling with taxi drivers the most convenient way to order a taxi is by using an app like Grab.

Tuk-tuks are iconic three-wheeled taxis that are a must-try experience in Thailand. They may not be the most practical mode of transportation for long distances and drivers may try to overcharge tourists, but they’re a fun and iconic way to get around the city.

Motorbikes and Scooters

If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular way to get around in Thailand. Make sure to get a international driving permit, wear a helmet, follow local traffic rules.

Tours of Thailand

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Whilst it’s safe and easy to travel around Thailand independently, if you prefer to have everything planned for you there are plenty of great tours to consider.

Taking a multi-day tour is a great way to see more of the country in a shorter amount of time without having to organize transportation, accommodation, and activities. Plus, having a knowledgeable local guide who can give you insider tips and information about each destination can add a whole new dimension to your trip.

If you’re a solo traveler joining a group tour is a great way to meet fellow travelers and make new friends. Private tours are also a popular option and can usually be customized to fit your specific interests and requirements.

A great place to find and compare multi-day tours of Thailand is on Tour Radar whereas day tours can be booked through Viator and Get Your Guide . These websites also allow you to read reviews of the tours before booking so you know just what to expect.

Some recommended multi-day tours of Thailand include:

  • 14 Day Thailand Island Hopper Tour : This fun small group tour takes you from Bangkok to Phuket visiting the highlights of the both the east and west coast along the way including Khao Sok National Park, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi. It’s ideal for young solo travellers looking for a fun, action packed trip with like minded people.
  • 14 Day Northern Thailand Adventure : Explore the highlights and hidden gems of northern Thailand with a small group. Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, visiting Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park, Ayutthaya and Pai and soaking up all the nature, culture and adventure along the way.
  • 9 Day Thai Intro : Heading to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party? This 9 day Thai Intro Tour is a popular way to get there while seeing some of Thailand’s highlights and making new friends along the way. Start with exploring Bangkok, be immersed in nature at Khao Sok National Park and end partying on the beaches of Koh Phangan.

This is just a small selection, there are many more group and private tours so you’re sure to find a tour that’s perfect for you.

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Palm trees at sunset, Phuket, Thailand

Thailand has a tropical climate and is warm all year round. The country does have three distinct seasons – cool, hot and rainy.

Cool Season: If you’re looking for sunshine, clear blue skies and lower humidity, the best time to visit Thailand is from November to February during the dry and cool season.

The weather during this time is perfect for exploring the cities, temples, jungles and beaches with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F).

This is peak season in Thailand and also the busiest time, so be prepared for crowds and book your accommodation, transport, and activities in advance.

Hot Season: From March to June the temperatures soar reaching up to 40°C (104°F). It’s a bit uncomfortably hot to enjoy exploring the cities or national parks but it’s a great time for a beach vacation when you can enjoy cheaper deals and less crowded beaches.

During this season, you can also experience some of Thailand’s famous festivals such as Songkran (Thai New Year) and the Phi Ta Khon ghost festival.

Rainy Season: The rainy season starts from July to October, with September being the wettest month. The rain brings some relief from the heat and creates lush green landscapes.

Don’t worry, it doesn’t rain constantly all day every day though. It usually rains in short, heavy, bursts and the rest of the day is sunny. You can still enjoy outdoor activities during this time but be prepared with a light raincoat or umbrella and be aware that the seas may be rougher and not so safe for swimming.

If you are looking for a beach vacation during July and August head to the islands in the Gulf of Thailand like Koh Samui which have drier weather than Phuket.

One advantage of visiting during this season is that everything is much greener and lusher, making for beautiful landscapes and waterfalls. It’s also a great time to visit the northern part of Thailand, where the rain tends to be less frequent. Read more here about visiting Thailand in the rainy season .

Holidays and Festivals

lanterns for loi krathong thailand

Thailand has many vibrant and colorful festivals, celebrating everything from religion to culture, that are worth planning your trip around.

Songkran , the Thai New Year celebration, is one of the most popular Thai festivals. It takes place in mid-April and involves massive water fights as a symbol of cleansing and starting anew.

Loy Krathong is a magical festival that celebrates the end of the rainy season in November. Thai’s float small baskets made of banana leaves with candles and flowers on rivers and release lanterns into the sky to let go of any negative energy from the past year.

Phi Ta Khon , also known as the ghost festival, takes place in Loei Province in July. It’s a lively and colorful three-day event where people dress up in ghost costumes and masks, dancing and parading to ward off bad spirits.

Vegetarian Festival , celebrated in October in Phuket, is a religious festival where people abstain from meat for nine days. It’s also known for its extreme rituals such as firewalking and body piercing to demonstrate devotion.

Costs of Traveling in Thailand

chiang mai temple thailand

Thailand is an affordable country to travel in, making it a popular destination, not just for backpackers and budget travelers, but for anyone looking for a bit of luxury without blowing the budget.

The average daily cost for traveling in Thailand ranges from $30-50 USD, depending on your travel style and preferences. Here is a breakdown of the average costs to expect when traveling in Thailand:

  • Accommodation: Budget accommodation options such as backpacker hostels or guesthouses can range from $5-20 USD per night. Mid-range hotels or Airbnb rentals can range from $25-60 USD per night. Luxurious resorts can cost upwards of $100 USD per night.
  • Transportation: Public transportation in Thailand is very affordable, a one-day ticket for unlimited travel on the Bangkok Skytrain costs 140 Thai Baht (approx $3.) Taxis and tuk-tuks are also readily available but can be more expensive depending on the distance and your negotiation skills. For longer distances, buses and trains are a budget-friendly option. Air Asia offers cheap domestic flights all over the country.
  • Food: Thai street food is not only delicious but also very affordable, with dishes costing around $1-2 USD per meal. Eating at local restaurants or markets can cost anywhere from $5-10 USD per day. If you’re looking for more upscale dining options, expect to pay around $20 USD per meal.
  • Activities: Many of the popular activities in Thailand, such as temple visits and cultural experiences, are free or very cheap and an hour of Thai massage is only $5–$15. For more adventurous activities like island-hopping trips, scuba diving and day tours, prices can range from $30-100 USD per day.

Best Destinations to Visit in Thailand

From exciting modern cities to ancient Buddhist temples, steamy jungles and tropical beaches, there’s no shortage of incredible destinations to visit in Thailand.

Here’s some of the most popular must-visit destinations:

bangkok skuline at sunset

Bangkok, the buzzing capital city of Thailand, is a must-visit destination and where most travelers to Thailand start their adventure.

Bangkok offers a heady mix of golden temples and soaring skyscrapers with vibrant street life, delicious food, and crazy nightlife. As soon as you step foot in this colorful city, you’ll be greeted with chaotic energy and an overwhelming array of sights, sounds, and smells.

There’s plenty of things to do in Bangkok but no visit is complete without a trip to the Grand Palace , home to Wat Phra Kaew and the magnificent Emerald Buddha.

wat arun bangkok thailand

Other must-see attractions include Wat Pho with its stunning Reclining Buddha statue and Wat Arun , or Temple of Dawn, sits alongside the Chao Phraya River and is particularly beautiful during sunset. Taking a river cruise, canal tour, or visiting a floating market is also a great way to experience Bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the world’s most visited cities and offers a wide range of accommodation, entertainment and experiences for all types of travelers. Backpackers in Bangkok make a beeline for the cheap bars and street food on lively Khao San Road, while luxury travellers sip cocktails and enjoy sunset views in plush rooftop bars. There’s something for everyone in the Thai capital. Spend 3 – 4 days in Bangkok to see the famous tourist attractions and get a feel for this fascinating city.

The ultimate 7 day Phuket itinerary

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island with stunning beaches, a colorful old town and plenty of attractions and accommodations for all types of travellers.

Located on the West Coast in the Andaman Sea, Phuket’s Beaches are some of the most beautiful in all of Thailand. There’s much more to do in Phuket , go snorkeling, diving and island-hopping to nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi and James Bond Island.

See my 7 Day Phuket itinerary to know how to fit all the highlights into 1 week.

phuket old town colourful shophouses

For a dose of culture and history visit Phuket Old Town , with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and charming cafes, and head up to the Big Buddha for a stunning view of the island.

Patong Beach is popular for it’s beautiful beach, water sports and nightlife. Bangla Road   comes alive with its buzzing nightlife scene, from lively bars and clubs to cabaret shows. There’s also plenty of pristine, quiet beaches and laid back resorts if you just want to relax and unwind.

Chiiang Mai moat

Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Thailand and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Thai culture. Nestled in the lush green mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai’s ancient temples, lively night markets and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers.

Chiang Mai’s Old City is filled with over 300 temples, stay in a heritage hotel in the Old City and immerse yourself in history. Also make sure you venture out to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , the most revered temple perched on top a hill with sweeping views over the city.

Doi Suthep is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Aside from temple-hopping , there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Chiang Mai. The street food and night markets are some of the best in all of Thailand and you can also take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes for yourself.

One of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai is visiting one of the many elephant sanctuaries that offer the chance to interact with these intelligent and gentle animals. There’s also plenty of opportunities to go on a trek through the jungle and visit hill tribe villages. Spend 3 – 5 days in Chiang Mai to see the highlights of the city and northern Thailand.

longtail boats on railay beach west krabi

Krabi is a true tropical paradise – an island hopping heaven with hundreds of dreamy islands located in the Andaman sea to explore.

The best thing to do in Krabi is to climb aboard a long tail boat and spend the day discovering beautiful islands with soft white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. There are also plenty of jungle adventures to be had and Krabi Town is also worth a visit.

Ao Nang, Railay and Koh Phi Phi are the most popular destinations and there’s plenty of beautiful places to stay in Krabi. And with hundreds of islands you can still get off the beaten track in this popular area – try visiting Koh Lanta, Koh Jum or the tiny Hong Islands.

make time in your Thailand itinerary to relax in a resort on Koh Samui

Situated on the East Coast in Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is another of Thailand’s most popular islands and beach destinations with palm fringed white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters.

Chaweng Beach has plenty of resorts, watersports, nightlife and activities to keep you entertained or head to quieter beaches for pure relaxation.

Koh Samui statue

You can also visit the famous Big Buddha Temple, the traditional fisherman’s village, and take a boat trip to explore the beautiful Ang Thong National Marine Park .

This is just a small selection of the top destinations, for more inspiration check out these   21 best places to visit in Thailand.

Bucket List Worthy Things to do in Thailand

white temple chiang rai

From temple hopping to island hopping, elephant encounters to full moon parties, there is no shortage of exciting activities and experiences to tick off your bucket list in Thailand.

Some of the best things to do in Thailand include:

One of the must-do activities in Thailand is visiting its dazzling temples. Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho temple in Bangkok are two of the most famous and stunning temples and offer a glimpse into Thai culture and history.

I also highly recommend visiting the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO world heritage site close to Bangkok, and the mesmerizing White Temple in Chiang Rai for a unique experience.

If you’re interested in learning about Thai culture and Buddhism take a temple tour with a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insight into the significance and symbolism of each temple.

Make sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and removing shoes when visiting these sacred sites.

Elephant Sanctuaries

One of the most popular things to do in Thailand is having an elephant encounter. Meeting these gentle giants is a humbling and heart warming experience.

However, if you visit elephant sanctuaries in Thailand it’s important to do your research. Choose a responsible and ethical sanctuary that prioritizes the well-being of these majestic creatures and don’t ride elephants. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is a highly recommended option.

Maya bay, Phi Phi island hopping tours and day trips from Phuket

Island Hopping Boat Trips

Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches and islands, and one of the best ways to explore them is by taking a boat trip.

Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day sailing excursion, you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful spots in Thailand such as Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, and James Bond Island, as well as explore lesser known tiny islets in protected marine parks.

Here’s some of the best island hopping trips you can take from Phuket to give you some inspiration.

Snorkeling and Diving

Another great way to experience Thailand’s crystal clear waters is by snorkeling or diving. The Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand offer some of the best spots for underwater exploration, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Some must-visit locations include Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi, and Surin Islands.

Thai Cooking Classes

If you’re interested in learning more about local cuisine, why not take a cooking class? Thailand is known for its delicious food and taking a hands-on cooking class is a fun way to bring home some new recipes and skills.

Thai cuisine is famous around the world for its bold flavors and diverse dishes. A food tour is a fantastic way to sample a variety of local dishes and learn about the country’s culinary traditions. From street food markets to cooking classes, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

night market in thailand

Night Markets

No visit to Thailand is complete without experiencing a bustling night market. These markets offer irresistible street food, bargain shopping, live music, and an immersive cultural experience. Night markets or walking streets are held in most places in Thailand so you’ll never be far away from one.

Massage, Yoga and Meditation

Numerous spas all over the country offer traditional Thai massages and other therapies at all price points. There are also plenty of yoga and wellness retreats and opportunities for meditation and massage courses, yoga teacher trainings and chatting to monks.

Whether you’re just looking to unwind after a day of exploring or seeking a deeper spiritual experience you’ll find what you are looking for in Thailand. See my pick of the best yoga and wellness retreats in Thailand for inspiration.

Adventure Activities

For the adrenaline junkies, Thailand has plenty of adventure activities such as zip-lining, jungle trekking, rock climbing, white water rafting, and ATV rides. These activities are a great way to explore the natural beauty of Thailand while getting your adrenaline pumping. Follow the hiking trails to reach the scenic viewpoints found on many of the best islands.

The best way to book tours and experiences online with Viator and Get Your Guide . That way you can read reviews so you know you are booking a good experience . Some hotels and local travel agents can also make the arrangements for you.

How Long To Spend: Suggested Thailand Itineraries

sukhothai historical park buddha and ruins

With so much to see and do you should create a trip plan or itinerary so that you don’t miss out on anything, but don’t forget to leave some time for relaxation too!

Here’s some suggestions for your Thailand itinerary depending on how much time you have:

1 Week in Thailand

If you only have one week to spend in Thailand, it’s best to focus on one or two destinations. Popular choices for a short trip include Bangkok and the islands of Phuket or Koh Samui.

Spend 2 or 3 days in Bangkok visiting the temples and floating markets. Then fly to Phuket or Koh Samui where you can relax on beautiful beaches, go snorkeling or diving, and island hopping. If you have 10 days to spend in Thailand consider adding in a few days in Chiang Mai too.

Or, if you want to spend as much time on the beach as possible, fly straight into Phuket and explore the nearby islands. You can explore the highlights of the Andaman sea in 1 week if you follow this Phuket and Krabi itinerary.

2 Weeks in Thailand

With two weeks, you have more time to explore different regions of Thailand and get a taste of both north and south.

Start in Bangkok and take a day trip the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya. Then head up north to Chiang Mai and spend a few days exploring the old city, night markets and elephant sanctuaries.

From Chiang Mai, take a flight to Phuket or Krabi for some beach time and island hopping. Don’t miss out on exploring the stunning limestone cliffs and emerald waters of Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach in Krabi.

Alternatively, you could head to the east coast and island hop from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan for the full moon party and go snorkeling and scuba diving on tiny Koh Tao.

Check out my 2 Week Thailand Itinerary to find out how to fit the best of both north and south into 14 days.

3 Weeks – 1 Month in Thailand

Most visitors can spend 30 days in Thailand without a visa and with so much to see why not make use of that time. With three or four weeks to spend in Thailand you can enjoy a more leisurely trip visiting both the popular destinations and also getting off the beaten track.

Consider heading north from Bangkok first, exploring places like Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi and Erawan National Park, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Spend some time hanging out in Pai and drive the Mae Hong Song Loop.

With 1 month you could see both sides of Thailand’s coast. Start in popular Phuket, hop to Koh Phi Phi and check out Krabi. Then head over and explore Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

You could also consider heading to less well-known islands like Koh Chang, Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe to see a different side to Thailand.

Check out this Thailand backpacking route which is perfect for a budget friendly 1 month Thailand itinerary.

Accommodation in Thailand

ao nang resort krabi thailand

There’s no shortage of accommodation options in Thailand for all budgets and travel styles. Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring budget or seeking a luxurious stay or family-friendly resort, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Thailand’s popular tourist destinations.

The best place to find and book accommodation in Thailand is on Booking.com and Agoda . Here’s what to expect depending on your budget:

Budget Accommodation Options:

Thailand has plenty of affordable accommodation options for backpackers and budget travelers with prices starting from as low as $5 per night for a bed in a dorm room.

Backpacker hostels : The go-to option for budget travelers. Most hostels provide comfortable and clean shared rooms and dormitories, social activities, and organized tours. They also provide opportunities to meet fellow travelers, making them perfect for solo adventurers. The best place to find and book is on Hostelworld.

Some popular backpacker hostels in Thailand include:

  • Mad Monkey Hostel , Bangkok
  • Lud D Patong , Phuket
  • Wanderlust Hostel , Koh Phangan

Budget Hotels: Local guesthouses, homestays and beach huts are all great options for private rooms at affordable prices from $10-$20 per night. These are perfect for couples or small groups who want more privacy but still want to keep costs low.

These budget accommodation options can be found in most tourist destinations in Thailand and are not just good for saving money, they are also a great way to interact with locals and experience their culture.

Mid-Range Accommodation Options

Boutique Hotels: If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable stay, Thailand has an amazing selection of mid-range boutique hotels and resorts that offer great value for money. These hotels provide a mix of comfort and style, with unique designs and friendly hospitality. Some are lovingly refurbished heritage hotels in traditional Thai buildings complete with a swimming pool and spa. There’s plenty of incredible boutique hotels in Bangkok , Chiang Mai and Phuket . Prices typically range from $30-$80 per night.

Family friendly resorts: For families, there are many resorts that offer spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and activities to keep everyone entertained. A popular family friendly resort is the Ananta Burin Resort in Ao Nang, Krabi which even has an onsite waterpark.

Luxury Accommodation Options

5 Star resorts and villas: For those seeking a luxurious stay in paradise, Thailand has no shortage of 5-star hotels, luxury resorts and stunning private villas that offer world-class facilities, stunning views, and impeccable service. Prices can range from $150-$500 per night depending on the location and season.

In popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui, you’ll find an abundance of luxury accommodation options such as the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui , and Sri Panwa Phuket . These resorts boast private beaches, infinity pools, gourmet restaurants, and spas to relax and unwind in.

Tips: When booking your accommodation in Thailand, it’s always a good idea to do your research into the different areas of a city or island to find the best fit for you.

My guides are a good starting point as they describe the popular neighbourhoods and recommend hotels for all budgets:

  • Where to Stay in Bangkok
  • Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
  • Where to Stay in Phuket
  • Where to Stay in Krabi
  • Where to Stay in Koh Phangan

Don’t forget to read the hotel’s latest reviews before booking. Also, keep in mind that peak season (November-April) can result in higher prices and crowded accommodations, so I’d recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment or the stress of trying to find somewhere at the last minute.

Food in Thailand

Khao Soi

Your taste buds are really in for a treat when you visit Thailand, and your wallet won’t complain either!

Thai cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors, textures, and aromas with influences from Chinese, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Indulging in authentic Thai food is a highlight of a trip to Thailand and is affordable and plentiful.

One of the must-try dishes for any visitor is Pad Thai . This popular street food dish features stir-fried rice noodles tossed with eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, peanuts, lime, and a host of spices. If you like spicy food, try the iconic Tom Yum Soup , a fragrant hot and sour soup and a spicy papaya salad is a must.

Another of my personal favourites is Mango Sticky Rice , a popular dessert that perfectly balances the ripe sweetness of mango with coconut milk and sticky rice. It’s a delightful end to any meal.

Eating out in Thailand is an adventure in itself. From bustling night markets, where you can try a variety of inexpensive street foods to high-end restaurants serving gourmet Thai cuisine and plenty of Western and international options, there’s something to suit every palate and budget.

If you’re worried about hygiene but don’t want to miss out on experiencing street food then a food tour is the way to go. And if you want to learn how to recreate your favorite dishes sign up for a Thai cooking class.

Shopping in Thailand

allow time to visit the floating markets in your Thailand itinerary

Shopping in Thailand is a lot of fun and a great way to experience the local culture. There are plenty of options for shopping, from bustling street markets to luxury malls, and everything in between.

One not-to-be-missed experience is visiting one of the many famous night markets in Thailand. You’ll find night markets in almost every city in Thailand. These vibrant markets come alive after dark with a colorful mix of food stalls, clothing vendors, handicraft and souvenir shops.

Some popular souvenirs include traditional Thai silk, hand-painted ceramics, and wooden carvings. If fixed prices are not displayed then you can haggle with the vendors for a better price. Night markets often have live music too.

For a more upscale shopping experience, head to one of Thailand’s many modern shopping malls where you’ll find international designer brands and boutiques with eating and entertainment options.

For a more unique shopping experience, check out Bangkok’s floating markets and the Chatuchak Weekend Market which has over 8,000 stalls selling everything under the sun.

Nightlife in Thailand

khao san road nightlife, bangkok

When the sun goes down and the heat of the day subsides Thailand really comes to life. There’s plenty to do after dark in Thailand, from buzzing night markets, to lively bars and nightclubs.

Thailand’s famous night markets offer not just shopping but a variety of food stalls, activities and entertainment. Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok is a large, popular open-air night market while Chiang Mai’s night bazaar is one of the best in the whole of Thailand. On Sunday’s many cities also have a walking street market in the evening.

For a taste of the high life, check out Bangkok’s glamorous rooftop bars offering cocktails with an unbeatable view of the city’s skyline. Check out Vertigo & Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Bangkok, Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower and Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar at Marriott Sukhumvit.

Other popular places to go at night in Bangkok include Khao San Road , a backpacker hub offering cheap food and drinks and a lively and fun atmosphere.

Sukhumvit’s Soi 11 is another popular spot for nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs and live music venues to choose from. Sukhumvit is also home to adult entertainment areas like Soi Cowboy, Nana Plaza and Patpong.

If you’re in the mood for dancing and partying, Thailand’s nightlife won’t disappoint. Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai all have a vibrant club scene with top DJs, themed parties and international crowds.

For those seeking an iconic Thai bucket list experience, head to the Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan’s Haad Rin Beach where you can drink out of buckets, deck yourself in neon and dance on the beach until the sun comes up.

Safety and Etiquette in Thailand

monks temple Thailand

Thailand is generally a very safe country for visitors, even for solo female travelers, and the Thai people are welcoming, polite, respectful and helpful. It’s still a good idea to learn abit about Thai culture and be careful on the roads and avoid drinking too much alcohol.

Thailand’s roads can be chaotic and accidents do happen. It’s important to wear a helmet when riding a motorbike and be aware of your surroundings when crossing the street. Also, avoid taking overnight buses as they have a higher risk of accidents.

One of the tourist scams to be aware of is that outside Bangkok’s Grand Palace people may tell you that the palace is closed and offer to take you on a tuk-tuk tour instead. This is usually a scam to get on onto an overpriced tuk-tuk tour. Also, be cautious of strangers who are overly friendly and offering to take you to “secret” temples or gem shops.

Always agree on a price before getting into a tuk-tuk or taxi. Book a reputable tuk tuk temple tour with a company like Viator and book your taxis on the Grab app.

In terms of cultural etiquette, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Take off your shoes and hats before entering a temple or someone’s home. It’s also polite to keep your feet on the ground and avoid pointing them at people or sacred objects.

One of the most important customs in Thailand is respecting the royal family. Any negative comments or actions towards the monarchy can result in serious consequences. Also, always stand up and show respect when the national anthem is played.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel in Thailand

elephant sanctuary phuket thailand

Thailand is a popular tourist destination but sadly there are some issues with overtourism, animal cruelty and unsustainable practices. As responsible travelers, it’s important to be mindful of our impact on the environment and local communities.

Here are some tips for supporting responsible and sustainable tourism in Thailand:

  • Avoid riding elephants or supporting unethical animal attractions like Tiger Temple as they often use inhumane methods to train and control the animals. Research elephant sanctuaries before visiting to ensure you support ethical operations where elephants are rescued and treated with care. The same goes for experiences involving hill tribe people or children.
  • Support local communities by staying at locally owned accommodations or homestays, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing souvenirs from local artisans. This not only supports the local economy but also allows for an authentic cultural experience.
  • If you have time take the train instead of flying to reduce your carbon footprint. Thailand’s night trains offer a clean, comfortable and interesting way to experience Thai culture and see more of the countryside. Also consider eco-friendly activities such as walking tours, hiking and biking.
  • Respect the local culture and customs by dressing modestly, learning basic Thai phrases, and being mindful of your behavior in sacred places such as temples.
  • Reduce plastic waste by bringing a reusable water bottle and bag and say no to single-use plastics.

Practical Information for Traveling in Thailand

sunset through the palm trees koh phangan thailand

Here’s all the other things you need to know about visiting Thailand:

Currency:  Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Always have some cash on hand as not all establishments accept cards. ATMs are readily available in major cities and tourist areas but charge foreign cards.

Time Zone:  Thailand is on Indochina Time (UTC+07:00).

Power:  The power voltage in Thailand is 220V and the standard socket is Type A/B/C. Make sure to bring an adapter if your devices require a different voltage.

Health:  Make sure to get travel insurance before your trip that covers all the activities you plan to do while in Thailand. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. It’s also important to bring insect repellent as dengue fever is present in Thailand. Sunscreen can be expensive too so it’s better to bring this with you.

Tipping : Tipping is not expected in Thailand, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service. Round up the bill or add 10% of the total cost as a tip at restaurants.

Now You’re Ready To Plan Your Trip To Thailand!

Wow! So there you have all my Thailand travel tips! I hope this Thailand guide has given you plenty of inspiration for visiting the Land of Smiles.

Whatever your interests and budget, I’m sure a trip to Thailand will be an unforgettable adventure. Whether you love islands and jungle, food and nightlife, or temples and history, I think you’ll find plenty to love in Thailand.

I hope my guide to Thailand has helped you to plan your trip and that you fall in love with this amazing country as much as I have done. If you are looking for tips on specific destinations check out my other Thailand blogs .

21 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand – My Favorites (2024)

10 stylish boutique hotels in bangkok: my favorites for 2024.

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Thailand Travel Guide

Thailand has lots of interesting things to see and do.

The islands in the Andaman Sea like Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi islands are great for boat tours, while cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai have some amazing food to try and traditional style Buddhist temples to explore.

Read through this Thailand travel guide for some of my best Thailand travel tips & info!

Quick Facts

Thai Baht (THB)

VOA or visa free access for 70+ nationalities

Tropical; hot & humid year round. Dry season is Nov - April

Power Plugs

Type A / B / C

Thailand has two major airports in Bangkok called Don Mueang (DMK) and Suvarnabhumi (BKK), and they have direct flights from many countries all over the world.

In fact, a good portion of the air traffic in Southeast Asia connects through Bangkok, so if you do any traveling in this part of the world then you'll most likely pass through there at some point in your journeys.

The DMK airport mainly handles domestic and regional flights (via budget airlines), while BKK handles more international destinations. There are also smaller airports in the popular Thai tourist spots like Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Samui, but these are mainly reached by domestic flights.

You can shop for flights to Thailand on Skyscanner.

Thailand is a relatively safe place to travel, with a low violent crime rate of 3.24 per 100k inhabitants (48% lower than the global average). I’ve traveled in many parts of Thailand and witnessed very little crime.

The biggest safety risks are probably motorbike accidents and natural threats, like dengue fever. Be sure to wear mosquito spray in rural areas, especially during the rainy season.

The climate of Thailand is tropical, so the weather is hot and humid year round. For Phuket and the Andaman Sea, the rainy season generally runs from May to October, and the sunny season runs from November to April.

It's still possible to visit Thailand in the rainy season, but give yourself some extra days as a buffer in case of bad weather.

Thailand is a very budget friendly travel destination, with  hostels available from 180 Baht ($5 USD) and private hotels from 360 Baht . Meals are also cheap, costing about 50 to 200 Baht depending on location.

Transportation in Thailand is generally by motorbike or car, and these can be rented, but hiring a driver is sometimes preferable. The  Grab  transportation app can be used in Thailand, but the prices are a bit inflated here because of price fixing by the Thai taxi industry.

The best Thailand tours & activities

Thailand By Drone

My latest blog posts about Thailand

How To Visit Khao Sok National Park In Thailand

One of the best places to see nature and animals in Thailand is at the Khao Sok National Park, which is not too far from Phuket and …

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint: Best Sunrise Spot In Thailand

The Samet Nangshe viewpoint in Thailand is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen in my travels. It’s also fairly easy to get there by …

James Bond Island: How To Visit Phang Nga Bay In Thailand

Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay is loaded with exotic island scenery, and one of the best things to see in the bay would have to be the famous …

How To Visit The Ayutthaya Ruins, Temples, & Buddha Tree

The Ayutthaya ruins and temples in Thailand are fascinating, and they’re pretty easy to visit on a day trip from Bangkok! This abandoned city from medieval Siam …

Ang Thong National Park: Koh Samui Thailand Day Trip

The Ang Thong National Marine Park is a group of 42 paradise islands in the Gulf of Thailand that you can visit on a day trip from …

Maya Bay Thailand: The Beach Is Open Soon! (Phi Phi Leh)

The beach at Maya Bay is one of the most famous and photogenic places in Thailand, and it’s the main thing responsible for bringing travelers to the …

Phi Phi Island Travel Guide For Thailand

Koh Phi Phi island is a beautiful spot in Thailand with limestone hills, turquoise lagoons, and the world famous beach at Maya Bay. There are two main …

Koh Tao Viewpoint Guide: 6 Best Spots On The Island

Koh Tao is a hilly island with lots of great viewpoints, so we had to put together this Koh Tao viewpoint guide explaining how to get to …

Koh Tao Island In Thailand: Travel Guide & Best Things To Do

Thailand has some of the nicest islands in Southeast Asia, and one of the most underrated is the island of Koh Tao. Koh Tao has lots of …

11 Best Things To Do In Krabi Thailand

When it comes to island hopping destinations in Thailand, Krabi may be overshadowed by nearby Phuket island, but I think both are very scenic and worthwhile. Krabi …

How To Visit Koh Nang Yuan Island Viewpoint In Koh Tao

The Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint is easily the most famous picture in Koh Tao, and it’s one of the most scenic too! Nang Yuan island is located …

Bottle Beach Viewpoint Hike In Koh Phangan Thailand

Bottle Beach Koh Phangan is a fun adventure away from the noise and bustle of this popular island in Thailand. After a short boat trip you’re rewarded …

Wat Benchamabophit – Marble Temple In Bangkok, Thailand

The Marble Temple (also known as Wat Benchamabophit) is one of the most popular and famous temples in Bangkok, Thailand. This is Thai architecture at its best, …

John Suwan Viewpoint In Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is famous for the scenic twin islands at Nang Yuan, but the less known John Suwan Viewpoint actually has some of the very best views. …

Wat Koh Tao Temple In Thailand

Wat Koh Tao temple is a Buddhist temple on the island of Koh Tao in Thailand. It’s a modern temple, so there’s not a lot of history …

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How to Plan a Vacation in Thailand

A First-Timer's Guide for Planning a Trip to Thailand

travel guide on thailand

primeimages / Getty Images

Although planning a vacation in Thailand sounds exotic, expensive, and potentially out of reach, getting there is easier than you think!

Bangkok often ranks as the most visited city in the world for a reason: Thailand is a beautiful, affordable destination — even for two-week trips. Each year, millions of travelers enjoy a vacation in Thailand without spending a fortune or backpacking for months.

How Much Will a Trip to Thailand Cost?

Forget the long-standing myth that faraway places are accessible to only the wealthy or retired. A vacation in Thailand can be as inexpensive as a trip to California, Hawaii, the Caribbean , or any of the other usual top destinations for Americans. It may even cost less, or at the least, you'll get nicer rooms and more memorable experiences for the same amount of money spent.

A large number of Thailand's annual international arrivals are backpacking budget travelers who get by on less than US $900 for a month in Southeast Asia . You may opt for a bit more luxury on a shorter trip. The good news is that tourism is well developed in Thailand; you have choices. You can find beach accommodation for $10 per night (bungalow with fan) or $200 per night (five-star hotel) — the choice is yours!

Airfare is obviously the largest upfront cost. But finagling a deal is possible with a little trickery. Use domestic carriers to get yourself to LAX or JFK, then book a separate ticket to Bangkok. Splitting a ticket between two carriers could save you hundreds of dollars!

Once on the ground in Thailand, the exchange rate and lower cost of eating and drinking can quickly compensate for the cost of the airfare.

Take a Tour or Plan an Independent Trip?

Although organized tours in Asia may seem the quick-and-easy solution, you can save money by just organizing transportation and activities once you are already on the ground. Research activities you want to do, however, there is no real need to book them online or before arriving in Thailand.

Booking day trips and activities is very easy in Thailand. Unless you go far off the beaten path, the language difference won't present any problems. Pretty well everyone who works with tourists will speak good enough English.

You'll find numerous travel agencies in tourist areas. Simply walk in, tell the person behind the counter where you want to go , and minutes later you'll be holding a bus/train/boat ticket. Commissions charged are trivial. The reception desk at your hotel or guesthouse will gladly book tickets and activities for you.

For activities, you'll usually be collected at your hotel by someone from the agency on the morning of your tour. Travelers are consolidated then taken on the day trip. At the end of the day, you'll be returned to your hotel — easy!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Thailand?

Weather differs a little between regions, but generally Thailand's driest months are between November and April . Even during the low/rainy season in Thailand , you'll enjoy days of sunshine. Discounts for activities and accommodation are easier to negotiate during the low-season months.

You may wish to time your vacation in Thailand around one of the many big festivals . At least make sure that you are aware one is coming — missing an exciting event by just a day or two is very frustrating!

The big Full Moon Party each month will affect transportation to and from the Koh Samui Archipelago (especially Koh Tao and Koh Phangan) . Planning an itinerary around moon phases may sound a bit pagan, but you'll be glad you did!

Do You Need Vaccinations for Thailand?

Although no specific vaccinations are required for Thailand, you should get the general ones recommended for all international travelers in Asia .

Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and a Tdap (for tetanus) are the most common jabs international travelers go for — all are good investments and provide protection for years.

You will not need rabies, yellow fever, or Japanese encephalitis vaccinations for a regular vacation in Thailand. The same applies for anti-malarial drugs. There is a relatively low risk of contracting malaria in Thailand, especially if you aren't spending extended amounts of time in the jungle.

The biggest risk in Thailand is dengue fever . Until the new vaccination being tested becomes available widespread, your best defense is to do what you can to avoid mosquito bites .

Zika (another mosquito-borne illness) is not a serious threat in Thailand.

What to Pack for Thailand?

With expansive malls in Bangkok and outdoor markets in Chiang Mai, along with plenty of smaller open-air street markets between, you'll have no shortage of cheap shopping opportunities. Leave room in your luggage: you'll definitely want to take home some unique finds! Pack less clothing and plan to buy an outfit or three there.

Rather than doing a lot of shopping before your vacation in Thailand, plan to purchase items locally to help merchants who need the income more than Western CEOs. Why carry an umbrella 8,000 miles if you can buy one there for $2 if it rains?

There are a few things you'll want to bring from home for your trip to Thailand. But beware of the biggest mistake most travelers in Asia admit to making: packing too much .

Accessing Money in Thailand

ATMs are literally everywhere in Thailand; they often compete for space! That's because providing cash to travelers is business: fees have skyrocketed to US $6-7 per transaction (on top of whatever your bank charges).

When using ATMs in Thailand, request the maximum amount each time . Sometimes breaking large denominations can be a challenge. Experienced travelers know to ask for 5,900 baht rather than 6,000 baht — that way they get some smaller denominations, too.

For instance, if you request 6,000 baht from an ATM, you'll receive six stiff 1,000-baht banknotes. Breaking them in small shops and eateries may produce some groans from the staff. Paying with them at carts for street food is simply rude. Instead, ask for 5,900 baht at the machine and get five 1,000-baht notes, one 500-baht note, and four ever-useful 100-baht notes.

As usual, exchanging U.S. dollars is an option. Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted at malls and larger hotels/restaurants, however, you may be charged an additional commission when paying with plastic. Identity theft is a growing problem ; opt to pay with cash when possible to minimize risk and transaction fees.

Haggling is a part of Thai culture , and you should bargain playfully for purchases such as souvenirs and clothing. Prices are even flexible in shopping malls. Accommodation and activities can often be negotiated, but always keep in mind the rules of saving face . Never haggle for food, drinks, or items with standardized prices.

Tipping is not the norm in Thailand , although there are some rare exceptions. Even if your intentions are good, leaving a tip accelerates cultural mutation and inflates prices for locals. Doing so causes people to prefer serving tourists (because they sling money around) over locals who may be more frugal.

For large purchases made on your trip, you can request a VAT refund at the airport as you exit Thailand. You'll need to have receipts and paperwork.

Prices displayed always include tax. At the register, you'll pay the price that was displayed. Sometimes a 10 percent service charge may be added to restaurant bills.

Where to Go in Thailand?

Most travelers arrive in Bangkok, but there are plenty of beautiful destinations farther afield .

  • The Thai Islands : No Thailand vacation is complete without visiting at least one or two of the beautiful islands. All differ in personality and allure. The shape of Thailand means choosing between some great island options in the Andaman Sea (west side) and the Gulf of Thailand (east side).
  • Chiang Mai : Thailand's northern capital is a favorite for many visitors. Life within the Old City is more manageable and easier to get around than Bangkok. The vibe is inarguably different and pleasant. Good food, outdoor markets, Lanna culture, and $6 massages are all great reasons to grab a low-cost flight or train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai .
  • Pai : Located around four hours north of Chiang Mai and surrounded by green hills, Pai has transformed in recent years from a quiet, "hippie" village into a major tourist destination. Despite the extra visitors, Pai retained much of its riverside charm. Organic farms and food, surprisingly good nightlife , and yoga/holistic/healthy workshops are all great reasons to visit. Northern Thailand provides many other draws in the area as well.
  • Ayutthaya : Just a two-hour train ride north of Bangkok, Thailand's former capital is the place to enjoy culture and cycle through ancient temple ruins. You'll often be the only person in a centuries-old temple!
  • Railay : Thailand's rock climbing epicenter in Krabi isn't just for climbers anymore. The impressive limestone scenery is unlike any other. But even if you prefer feet on the ground, the powdery sand and isolation (Railay is only accessible via boat) will make you feel as though you're on an island.

What to Expect on a Thailand Vacation

The tourism infrastructure in Thailand is well established. They've had a lot of practice accommodating visitors of all budgets and trip durations. But as with many top destinations, things are creeping decidedly upscale as older, mom-and-pop businesses are demolished and replaced by foreign-owned chains.

Thai food is celebrated around the world for its savory flavors and spicy potential. But forget the myth that all Thai food is spicy — most restaurants (especially the ones catering to tourists) will ask how much pain you can handle or allow you to add your own spice. Chili powder is usually available on every table.

Fun nightlife is widespread in Thailand. The cost of a large domestic beer averages $2 – 3. From epic beach parties to drinking sessions with locals , only a few specific areas are as seedy as is often depicted on television.

Thailand is a Buddhist country . You will inevitably end up encountering monks and visiting impressive temples. Don't expect Hollywood's depiction of a Buddhist monk: the Theravada monks in Thailand often have smartphones!

Thailand is a very safe destination. Crime, aside from the usual petty theft, is rarely ever a problem for foreign visitors. Tourism is big business, and Thais will often go out of their way to help you enjoy their beautiful country.

Enhance your trip by learning how to say hello in Thai before you go. Locals are patiently tolerant, however, you should know a few dos and don'ts in Thailand to avoid being "that" tourist who accidentally ruins a good thing!

If planning a vacation in Thailand is so easy, there must be some downsides, right? Sure. With every international destination, there are some potential concessions to make. Here are a few common complaints most often cited by travelers:

  • Assuming you departed from North America, circling the globe to Asia will consume a full day (each direction) of your vacation time. Also, jetlag bites harder; the time difference between Eastern Standard Time and Bangkok is +12 hours.
  • Major attractions get very busy during the dry season months (November to April). Traffic in Bangkok is worse than ever.
  • Although crime isn't bad, there are a number of individuals who make livings by scamming tourists.

Related Articles

More related articles.

THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE

How to travel to thailand independently.

✓ 170 pages of tips collected during our 18 months of traveling around Thailand

✓ All you need to know about food, transport, accommodation, insurance, costs and Thai traditions

✓ Awesome pro tips for what to do in Thailand beyond beaches and temples

✓ Tons of useful advice about where to go in the northern, central and southern regions

✓ Suggestions for what to avoid in Thailand

✓ Detailed itineraries for your Thailand vacation

✓ Oodles of helpful resources about Thailand

Thailand Guide Cover

Discover the Land of Smiles

Thailand is a fascinating country with an incredible diversity in natural and historical sites, exotic cuisine and a huge range of activities to do. It doesn’t matter if you are a budget traveler, an adventurer, an outdoor lover, a luxury traveler or a first-time visitor in Asia, Thailand will welcome you with open arms and heart.

Despite the fact that it’s become one of the most popular destinations in Asia (and in the world!), there are still lots of off the beaten path places with genuine locals and unspoilt nature.

Thailand stole our hearts during our first visit in 2013. Since then we’ve been returning periodically and calling it home for extended amounts of time. We’ve ventured through the north, south, east and west of Thailand and visited lesser known corners of the country as well as popular sites. Our time with kind-hearted locals taught us more about the local culture and country’s history.

We’ve volunteered at an international NGO that protects the natural habitat of elephants. We’ve organized photowalks in the Northern part of the country and gave a speech about responsible travel in Bangkok. One of our travel pieces on Thailand was published in the UK edition of the Psychologies magazine. We were also honoured to be guests on the travel show The Passion, which airs on Thai national TV.

In this travel guide, we’ll share our knowledge on Thailand with hopes to inspire you to travel to Thailand independently, without a travel agent, and to explore the country at your own pace and according to your interests.

This is the e-book for people looking for detailed information on Thailand, including Thai culture, transportation, accommodations, food, things to do and places to visit in Thailand. Thailand Travel Guide will help you plan and enjoy your trip.

By reading this Thailand Travel Guide, you will…

  • be able to decide which region of Thailand suits you the best, and the kinds of natural and historical sites you’ll find in the northern, central and southern regions.
  • find suggestions for all sorts of accommodation, ranging from luxury resorts, mid-range guesthouses to basic bamboo huts.
  • get tips on various transport modes available throughout the country. draw inspiration on what to do in Thailand, whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie or a luxury traveler. We also include a list of awesome Thai festivals. learn about what and where to eat in Thailand.
  • have an idea of how much money you will spend on your holiday in Thailand.
  • discover how the weather varies in different regions and when to visit each region.
  • understand what not to do in Thailand so you can avoid faux pas.
  • receive practical tips on how to save money in Thailand.
  • have access to two different travel itineraries: one that focuses on beaches and nature, while the other focuses on history and cities.

travel guide on thailand

What other Thailand travel experts say about this guide

travel guide on thailand

Frequently Asked Questions

Because we’ve written it from with the goal of helping others to get the most of their trip to Thailand. All experiences in the e-book are either ours personally, or in a few case, we took some tips from friends we know have also traveled extensively in Thailand, and we trust their recommendations. The e-book is full of practical advice – absolutely no fluffy stuff.

If you’ve only visited Bangkok and a couple of the islands in the south, then the answer is “Definitely!”. We put together tons of tips covering where to go in Thailand, including the lesser-known areas. This e-book covers the whole country of Thailand and includes many inspiring tips for things to do. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from!

Not at this time.

Drop us an email on nomadisbeautiful(at)gmail(dot)com. We’ll be happy to help out if we can.

About the authors

Ivana Greslikova and Gianni Bianchini are the Slovak-Italian couple behind the Nomad is Beautiful travel website.

After they quit their jobs in Germany in 2013, they packed their lives into two carry-on backpacks, hit the road and never looked back.

Gianni and Ivana both graduated from English language and literature and were documenting their lives through photography for many years prior to their nomadic journey.

With Ivana’s five years of experience as an editor and Gianni as a photographer and team leader in a videogame company, they’ve created a website filled with beautiful travel photos and engaging articles.

On their blog, they focus on Southeast Asian countries, travel photography, responsible travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle.

If they’re not roaming around local markets early morning, you’ll find them hiking up in the hills and sipping pu-erh tea around the world.

travel guide on thailand

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Longtails on West Railay Beach Photo by: David Luekens

Introduction

  • For beginners
  • Visas & borders
  • Getting here

An independent travel guide to Thailand

Thailand offers many quintessential Southeast Asian travel experiences: spectacular nature, a rich culture and history, a friendly population and a cuisine as rich in colour and appearance as in taste. For many travellers, Thailand is a first foray into Southeast Asia and that first trip becomes one of a series.

On this page

  • Alternative
  • How long for

Our Thailand travel guide is here to help you get the most out of each and every one of your trips to Thailand, beginning with some simple guidelines below aimed at first-time travellers to the country.

Tourism has been developing seriously in the kingdom since the 1970s. Today, there’s both a very well trodden trail and a very well developed travel infrastructure to take any pain out of travel here. Relatively easy to get around, and, by regional standards, quite affordable, the country attracts a vast number of tourists from all corners of the globe—you’re just as likely to be sharing a beach bar with an Australian as an Austrian, or indeed a Singaporean.

Read reviews for Friendship Beach Resort & Atmanjai Wellness Spa

Absolute highlights

Thailand packs a solid punch when it comes to offering appealing attractions, but when it comes to the absolute must-sees in Thailand , a few spots really shouldn’t be missed. Choose from scores of tropical islands, multiple sites of fascinating ruins, trekking destinations in the north and, for those seeking an intense megalopolis experience, the nation’s capital Bangkok never disappoints.

Touching the earth in Sukhothai. Photo by: David Luekens.

Bangkok : Set astride the majestic Chao Phraya River, Bangkok represents all that is good and bad about an Asian mega-city. It’s a city with something, somewhere for everyone, whether it be delicious street food, offbeat nightclubs, serene yoga classes or colourful market shopping.

Chiang Mai : This is Thailand’s northern capital, and with its smaller size and population, Chiang Mai has a lot to offer travellers. The centre of town is packed with glittering temples, excellent restaurants and expansive shopping markets , all of which are easily taken in on foot.

Historic ruins : Three destinations between Bangkok and Chiang Mai are home to important historic ruins dating back as far as the 13th century. Both Sukhothai and Ayutthaya were former capitals and are the two most popularly visited. Kamphaeng Phet will appeal to those looking to get a little further off the beaten trail.

Islands : With so much variety, we’re wary of nominating absolute faves, but these four very different islands are difficult to beat. Ko Pha Ngan is a highlight for its amazing variety of beaches and affordable accommodation, Ko Jum boasts a bo-ho laidback vibe, Ko Bulon Lae shows how tourism can exist in harmony with the tranquil rhythm of the islanders and Ko Kut offers a more upmarket and serene option—and the beaches are gorgeous.

Popular destinations

Kanchanaburi : A short hop from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is home to pristine national parks , cavernous caves, majestic rivers, lakes, waterfalls and temples. For many though, this takes a backseat to the area’s World War II history.

Rafting in Pai. Photo by: Travelfish.

Pai : Once a sleepy and somewhat remote Shan town, Pai , while still a bit of an effort to reach, is these days well and truly on the traveller’s map of northern Thailand. If you’re a young backpacker on a first trip to Thailand, it can be a great scene.

Nong Khai : Overlooking the Mekong River within earshot of Laos, Nong Khai boasts magnificent landscapes, waterfalls and forest temples nestled into its surrounds. Add in a good mix of affordable accommodation, yummy food and one quirky yet awe-inspiring sculpture park and you have an appealing destination.

Hua Hin : A vast white-sand beach, thriving art scene, tacky tourist sights, early 20th century architecture, seedy bars, scenic hills and golf courses, hastily developed streets, aggressive touts, inflated prices, family-friendly resorts and lots of European retirees: Love it or hate it, Hua Hin has a character all its own.

Krabi : A mash-up of funky bars, Western restaurants and old-school markets slinging fiery curries somehow come together to form a fun and intriguing town, better known as Krabi .

Alternative destinations

Sangkhlaburi : When travellers dream of Thailand, they may picture jungles, sparkling temples and the exotic charm of rural villages— Sangkhlaburi is home to all this and its seclusion only adds to its mystique.

A quiet moment in Sangkhlaburi. Photo by: Stuart McDonald.

Chiang Dao : Dao means star in Thai—and the mountain in Chiang Dao is so high it’s supposed to be on the same level as the stars themselves.

Sangkhom : Tucked along a pretty stretch of the Mekong River, the tiny village of Sangkhom is one of those little-known, remote places that can turn out to be a highlight for those willing to sidestep the well-trodden track. In other words, we love Sangkhom!

Prachuap Khiri Khan : Make time to visit and you will be amply rewarded with a low-key, local atmosphere that has just enough of a developed tourist infrastructure and plenty of largely tasteful accommodation to make your stay comfortable. The seafood is great, too.

Nakhon Si Thammarat : Set to a historical backdrop of Buddhist kings and bustling trade, modern Nakhon Si Thammarat is a fast-paced cultural and commercial centre. If you’re after a taste of unadulterated Southern Thailand and you don’t mind sliding off the tourist trail, head here.

Tropical islands

Thailand is no slouch when it comes to sea and sand, with four main clusters of islands, plus dozens more individual islands to choose from. (We cover more than 30 Thai islands on Travelfish.)

Ko Pha Ngan with the weather turned on. Photo by: David Luekens.

Eastern Gulf Islands : Set towards Cambodia, these include jungle-clad Ko Chang , drop-dead gorgeous Ko Kut and, closer to Bangkok and popular as a weekender from the megacity, Ko Samet .

Southern Gulf Islands : These include family-friendly Ko Samui , home to the infamous Full Moon Party Ko Pha Ngan and the diving mecca of Ko Tao .

Northern Andaman islands : On Thailand’s Andaman (southwest) coast, these run from Ko Phayam and Ko Chang Noi in the north to Phuket in the south. Note, there are plenty in between.

Southern Andaman islands : The lovely Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai are striking antidotes to boisterous and overtouristed yet spectacular Ko Phi Phi . Further south you’ll find laidback Ko Jum and family-friendly Ko Lanta , followed by a whole string of smaller islands, which taper off at Ko Tarutao , Ko Bulon Lae and Ko Lipe , just before the waves become Malaysian.

Nature lovers

National Parks : While they’re not all world class, Thailand does have a rich network of national parks, including enormous Khao Yai National Park in the northeast and Kaeng Krachan National Park in the south. Other crowd-pleasing spots include Khao Sok National Park and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park , both of which are in the south. In the northeast, Pha Taem National Park points towards early evidence of human habitation in the area.

Amazing scenery at Khao Sok National Park. Photo by: Lana Willocks.

Ruins and rivers

Khmer ruins : Those with an interest in Thailand’s Khmer period often strike into the northeast, where highlights include the spectacular ruins at Phanom Rung and Phimai , though plenty of other sites can be visited as well. Be sure to explore the fiery, addictive cuisine of Isaan while you're in this region.

Breathtaking Phanom Rung. Photo by: David Luekens.

Rivers : While Thailand is famous for its beaches and islands, there’s something special about lazing away a few days by swirling river waters, too. The Mekong delineates much of the Thai-Lao border and prime river-hangout towns include Chiang Khong , Chiang Kha , Sangkhom , Nong Khai , That Phanom , Mukdahan and Khong Chiam . Other rivers worth experiencing are Kok River in the north and the Chao Phraya , which weaves straight through the Thai capital.

For many, an active Thai holiday might mean anything requiring more than a 20-metre stroll from the hammock to the ocean. But for those looking to do more than re-read Lord of the Rings in a hammock, Thailand isn’t at all shabby when it comes to fun things to do.

Do it! Photo by: Ayesha Cantrell.

Learn to dive: Top of the pops is probably learning to dive on Ko Tao (or Ko Phi Phi, or any number of other islands). Above the waters, rock climbing , especially by Railay Bay, is world class.

Cooking courses and food walks : Doing a cooking course or taking a food walk are both popular activities, as is visiting one of Bangkok’s many floating markets .

Trekking : In northern Thailand, trekking is hugely popular, with Chiang Mai, Pai, Mae Hong Son and Pai all trekking centres. The trips are often combined with bamboo rafting and visiting or staying in a minority village.

Courses and personal improvement : Every Thai town has at least one wat (temple) so there is no shortage to visit and some choose to stay at or do meditation courses within . Language courses are also popular, especially in Chiang Mai, and then there is yoga, fasting and detox retreats , often in idyllic locations, for those taking a more holistic approach to their travels.

Festivals : Thailand celebrates an impressive array of festivals , with the water festival of Songkran (Thai new year) in mid-April the biggest of all. Others, including the Rocket Festival and Phi Ta Khon in the northeast of the country and nationwide Loi Krathong , can offer remarkable (and colourful) insight into life in Thailand.

Between November and May, Thailand’s north sees mostly dry, cooler weather, warming to scorching hot in April. May to November is dominated by the southwest monsoon, characterised by heavy rain interspersed with dry and sunny stretches.

Wet season can be ... interesting. Photo by: Stuart McDonald.

The South has two seasons, and the weather changes depending on which side of the peninsula you are on. The west coast sees the southwest monsoon bring rain and often heavy storms from April to October, while on the east coast, most rain falls between September and December. The rest of the year on each side is warm and dry.

So when is the best time to visit? From a weather point of view , December to February generally offers the best conditions—the north won’t be blisteringly hot and you’ll find great weather on some of Thailand’s islands.

With this great weather though comes big crowds and peak season prices. Those who don’t mind a bit of rain in return for thinner crowds prefer the shoulder season in November and March. Of course it also depends on where you are going—when the rain is pouring on Ko Chang, it is shining on Ko Tao and Ko Pha Ngan.

How long to go for

How long have you got?! For a first-time visitor looking to see just a bit of Bangkok, and say Kanchanaburi or Ko Samet, a week would suffice to give a taste of what the country has to offer. Thailand though really deserves two weeks for a first-time trip we reckon.

Dawn on Ko Taen. Photo by: Stuart McDonald.

If you’re planning on travelling around a bit, rather than just staying on one island, four weeks is a popular stretch as it fits within a visa-free stay and allows for a couple of weeks in the north and a couple of weeks in the south.

If you are planning a longer stay, it pays to familiarise yourself with Thailand’s visa rules . They change often and some rules are enforced haphazardly, complicating what should be a simple process.

What it will cost

Your budget will depend very much on your style of travelling . If you’re comfortable in simple accommodation, eating street food, not drinking too much alcohol, travelling using cheap transport and steering clear of heavily touristed (and so more expensive) destinations, you can still survive on around 600 baht per day—less if you’re especially frugal and travelling as a couple. Watch out for fancypants dorms which are often way over-priced for the standard when compared to what you could pay for an air-con private room in a normal guesthouse.

Show me the money! Photo by: Stuart McDonald.

Most independent travellers tend to spend a little more. That air-con room is tempting, as is the pool and WiFi, latte and occasional VIP bus or short domestic flight. All these conspire to push daily budgets up to around a more comfortable 1,000 to 1,500 baht per day.

If your tastes veer more towards the luxurious, then Thailand does offer terrific value for accommodation around the 3,000 to 6,000 baht mark, with food and entertainment costs potentially rising accordingly. Likewise, you can also spend tens of thousands of baht a night for truly luxurious settings—think private pool villas and so on—flying everywhere and fine dining the whole way along.

What to read

Probably the most famed Thailand-set novel is Alex Garland’s The Beach , which was re-released by Penguin in 2016 to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of its publishing. Garland seeks to explore the question of whether Western travellers effectively ruin the very thing they set out to find — you can pretty easily guess the answer, but the book is a page-turner while it teases the analysis out.

So much to read, so little time. Photo by: Stuart McDonald.

Bangkok Found by Alex Kerr pierces deeply into the art, culture and people of Thailand in a book that reads more like an inspiring travel narrative than a research project. A chapter on polite behaviour, titled "Walking Softly," should be required reading for all visitors to Thailand.

For a nuanced examination of traditional Thai values, 1954-published Many Lives by M.R. Kukrit Pramoj is a compelling read, exploring the lives, and deaths, of 11 people in early 20th-century Thailand. The stories unravel a web of unwritten laws that still keep Thai society tangled together, for better or worse, today.

A lighter exploration of life in Thailand in the 1960s from the perspective of an outsider is Mai Pen Rai Means Nevermind by Carol Hollinger. This memoir is now something of a history book too, recounting the period Hollinger spent in Bangkok first as a housewife, then as a teacher at the American University and finally Chulalongkorn University.

A more recent look at the lives of Thais (and those visiting Thailand) is Sightseeing by Chicago-born, Thai-raised Rattawut Lapcharoensap, a series of short stories (and one novella), published in 2004. It’s an illuminating view behind the curtain in a country that strains to put its best foot forward for visiting foreigners.

The 2014 Man Booker winner The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan is a deep, dark and important read, set mostly in a Japanese POW camp along the Thai-Burma Death Railway. If you plan to visit Hellfire Pass and Kanchanaburi in Thailand, you really should read this beforehand.

What to watch out for

Sadly Thailand has more than its fair share of scams . Gem scams, especially in Bangkok, persist. Petty theft, snatch and grabs and other crimes of opportunity are not uncommon in heavily touristed areas.

Violent crime specifically aimed at foreign travellers remains rare, but does happen. Use your common sense, stay under control and, if a situation becomes uncomfortable, leave or seek assistance immediately.

Having adequate travel insurance cover is essential .

Thailand’s road toll is extremely high. Drink driving is endemic, especially over public holiday periods, when hundreds of people die on the roads. Bus accidents are frequent. Always wear a motorcycle helmet when riding a bike. Do not ride a motorbike if you don’t know how. Public boats are frequently overloaded and speed boats are often overloaded and driven erratically or dangerously. Public boats sink frequently, often with insufficient life jackets. If the boat looks overloaded to you, or the weather dangerous, do not get on board . There will be another.

Don’t ride (or drive) stoned or drunk. Drug laws in Thailand are very strong, but enforced haphazardly. Just because the tuk tuk driver who sold you a bag of pot didn’t get arrested doesn’t mean you won’t be.

If you wouldn’t do it in your home country because it is stupid, why do it in Thailand?

Thailand is run by a military junta . It took power in a military coup, kicking out a popularly elected government. Under the junta’s rule many public and press freedoms have been significantly curtailed. Thailand maintains extremely harsh and severe lèse-majesté laws, ostensibly to protect the reputation of the Thai royal family. Thais falling foul of this law have been jailed. Public political discourse is generally not a great idea, especially after drinking 15 large Singha beers.

Popular destinations in

Amphawa Aranyaprathet Ayutthaya Bangkok Chanthaburi Chiang Dao Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Kanchanaburi Khao Sok National Park Khao Yai National Park Ko Chang Ko Kut Ko Lanta Ko Lipe Ko Mak Ko Pha Ngan Ko Samet Ko Samui Ko Tao Ko Wai Krabi Lopburi Mae Salong Mukdahan Nan Nong Khai Pai Phanom Rung Sangkhlaburi Sangkhom Sukhothai That Phanom Thong Pha Phum Trat Ubon Ratchathani See all destinations in Thailand

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Best places to visit in thailand.

travel guide on thailand

With a history that spans centuries and an exotic and friendly culture, Thailand welcomes travelers with white sand beaches, bustling cities and world-renowned culinary traditions. But with all that Thailand has to offer, you might be overwhelmed by where to head first. U.S. News considered attractions, seasonality, food options and more to determine the best places to visit in Thailand. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Railay Beach

Kanchanaburi province, khao sok national park, hua hin district, khao yai national park.

travel guide on thailand

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is a welcome reprieve from the commotion of Bangkok. Here, you'll be treated to beautiful, mountainous landscapes and an Old City full of historical temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Venture outside of the city to Doi Suthep temple for sweeping views of the city below. Night markets are also a must-do in Chiang Mai, so pencil in time for the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (one of Thailand's oldest and most well-known night bazaars). And no matter what, leave time for a visit to Elephant Nature Park for some rest and relaxation with Thailand's gentle giants.

travel guide on thailand

Thailand's capital city is nothing short of exhilarating. The city offers a hearty mix of big-city bustle and modern sights, such as the Jim Thompson House, alongside ancient attractions, including Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Just don't forget to pack modest clothing for visits to sacred sites, or you won't be admitted. While here, be sure to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the largest street markets in the world – and eat at some of Bangkok's more than 300,000 street food stalls (some Michelin starred). At night, take in the skyline by exploring the rooftop bar scene.

travel guide on thailand

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and also the most popular with travelers. The island draws visitors in with its many palm-fringed beaches and relatively low travel costs, including everything from food to hotels. Hit up highly regarded Patong Beach, party the night away in the Patong district or head inland to Phuket Old Town to experience more local culture and find cheaper lodging options. Complete your once-in-a-lifetime trip by taking a long-tail boat tour to other islands in the area to swim, snorkel or scuba dive.

travel guide on thailand

Home to five-star resorts, amazing nightlife and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches , the island of Ko Samui has something for everyone. When you're not lounging on the white sand, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment, visit an elephant sanctuary or explore ancient temples like Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Save time in your schedule for a daytrip to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park, a 42-island archipelago that is accessible via speedboat. Here, travelers can kayak, snorkel and scuba dive.

travel guide on thailand

Although the region was devastated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Phang Nga has recovered and rebuilt. During the cool (though still relatively hot), dry season (from November to February), tourists descend upon the province to check out protected areas like Mu Ko Surin National Park, one of the best diving sites in Thailand. Hiking and snorkeling are also excellent ways to explore while admiring southern Thailand's natural beauty. Before leaving, don't forget to save time for a visit to Ao Phang-Nga National Park, famous for its caves, emerald green waters and the picturesque James Bond Island.

travel guide on thailand

Railay Beach features four stunning stretches of sand to sink your toes into. Railay West and Phra Nang Beach are two of the peninsula's most popular beach spots, offering luxury resorts, soft sand and jaw-dropping views of limestone cliffs. Tonsai Beach is more laid-back and budget-friendly thanks to its quieter, more removed location. Meanwhile, Railay East, while not great for swimming, is where you'll find some of the area's best nightlife venues. Regardless of which beaches you choose to visit, you'll have access to some of Thailand's best rock climbing locations, plus various walking paths and coral reefs.

travel guide on thailand

Trang's secluded beaches and stunning islands have made it an up-and-coming travel destination. The dramatic surrounding landscapes (think: lush jungles and limestone mountains) contrast beautifully against the beaches' white sands and crystal-clear waters. You can spend days island-hopping to see and do all that Trang has to offer. Top activities you may enjoy include snorkeling around Ko Kradan, swimming to a hidden beach cave on Ko Muk and wandering through Thung Khai Botanical Garden. And after you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, head to one of Trang's 10 districts to immerse yourself in Thai culture.

travel guide on thailand

Ko Phi Phi features some of Thailand's most popular beaches. Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands, is known for its lively party scene, hidden coves and deep coral reefs and gardens that are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is where you'll find verdant cliffs surrounding Maya Bay's beautiful beaches, which you may recognize from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie "The Beach." The best time to visit is between November and April, though be prepared for hordes of other visitors during this time.

travel guide on thailand

Situated in northern Thailand, there are countless reasons to visit Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) and Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are two of the city's most popular cultural landmarks, but travelers should also save time for the incredible Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai's iconic all-white temple. After exploring Chiang Rai's architectural wonders, enjoy a boat tour of the Mae Kok River, go shopping at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar or explore the Baan Dam Museum, a collection of buildings created by artist Thawan Duchanee.

travel guide on thailand

Thailand's third-largest province captivates travelers with its natural beauty. Its diverse landscape – which features everything from seven-tiered waterfalls, rivers and mountains to Neolithic caves and national parks – is ideal for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and rafting. But a trip here wouldn't be complete without visiting some of the area's World War II sites, including the notorious Bridge over the River Kwai. Start your history lesson at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that tells the tragic story of how the Thailand-Burma Railway was built. Then, stop by the JEATH War Museum to see a replica of a prisoners-of-war camp.

travel guide on thailand

Even if you don't consider yourself an outdoorsy person, a trip to Khao Sok National Park is sure to take your breath away. Home to limestone cliffs, awe-inspiring waterfalls and the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, Khao Sok is an incredibly bio-diverse area. Here, you'll find roughly 200 kinds of flora and many different animal species, including tigers, elephants and Southern pig-tailed macaques (monkeys). The park sees a lot of rainfall year-round, so for the best chance of staying dry, time your visit during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

travel guide on thailand

For a vacation full of rich cultural attractions, head to Lampang. Sitting about 70 miles southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is known for its horse-drawn carriages, authentic Thai cuisine and ornate temples, including the ancient Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang. Spend some time browsing for souvenirs along Kad Kong Ta, a thoroughfare that turns into a street market on weekends, or learn about the production of the chicken bowl at the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to nearby Chae Son National Park, where tourists boil eggs in the park's natural hot springs.

travel guide on thailand

A popular resort destination along the Gulf of Thailand, the Hua Hin District offers a full roster of activities to pick from (think: water parks, golf courses and night markets). Visitors can ride banana boats at Hua Hin Beach or enjoy the views from the top of Khao Takiap hill (just beware the resident wild monkeys). Hua Hin also serves as an excellent jumping off point for daytrips – spectacular sights like the Phraya Nakhon Cave and Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest national park in Thailand, are located less than 40 miles outside of the city center.

travel guide on thailand

Khao Yai National Park boasts a number of impressive superlatives: It's the oldest and most-visited national park in Thailand, the country's third-largest national park and one of mainland Asia's largest intact monsoon forests. Plus, this stunning national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 30 miles of hiking trails, some of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Keep in mind, though that guides are required for most of the trails. While exploring, you may spot some of Khao Yai's wild residents, including elephants, sun bears and several species of hornbills.

travel guide on thailand

Named Ko Chang (or "Elephant Island" in Thai) because of its elephant-shaped headland, this large island is more secluded than Phuket but no less beautiful. Its west coast is dotted with stunning coastlines (some sandy, some rocky), small towns and a variety of accommodation options, while its interior offers tropical jungles and gushing waterfalls to trek through and to. But remember, Ko Chang's tourism infrastructure isn't as well developed as other Thai islands, so getting here is a bit more of a trek.

travel guide on thailand

Located in southern Thailand near the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is a popular stopover for tourists traveling between the two countries. This cosmopolitan city is a premier shopping hub, boasting several malls, night bazaars and a unique floating market, where travelers can purchase local delicacies and goods from vendors stationed in small boats along a canal. When you're not bargaining for the best price, check out the impressive Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, a temple constructed entirely out of stainless steel. Another can't-miss tourist attraction in Hat Yai is the towering statue Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj, which sits within Hat Yai Municipal Park.

travel guide on thailand

This northeast Thai city is ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed vacation itinerary. Start off with a visit to the temple Wat Phothisomphon, then learn about Udon Thani's Chinese heritage at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Center. Other travelers will want to prioritize Udon Thani's natural wonders, which include Nong Prachak Public Park and serene Red Lotus Lake. While you're here, considering making a daytrip to nearby Ban Chiang, a Bronze Age UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Southeast Asia.

14 Day Tour of Thailand & Laos

Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train

This border-crossing epic marries Southeast Asian escapism with the timeless romance of train travel.

Starts at: Bangkok

Ends at: Bangkok

Duration: 14 days

travel guide on thailand

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travel guide on thailand

Mu Ko Similan National Park

travel guide on thailand

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travel guide on thailand

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travel guide on thailand

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8 of Thailand's most amazing places to visit

Chawadee Nualkhair

Jun 15, 2024 • 9 min read

Ayutthaya, Buddha statues in a row in Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, mother and daughter in front of a Buddha statue.

From historic cities like Ayutthaya to white-sand beaches, here are the best places to visit in Thailand © Westend61 / Getty Images

When people think of Thailand , they often think of relaxing on a  pristine beach  with a refreshing cold drink in their hand.

Although Thailand is indeed blessed when it comes to diversions of the sandy persuasion, this country of more than 513 sq km (198 sq miles) also boasts virgin forestland, picturesque mountains, lively nightlife, raucous markets and of course, cities with their own unique histories and cultures. Thailand is a multifaceted destination, appealing to everyone from the hedonistic foodie to the ascetic seeking enlightenment (and everyone in between).

Fly-and-flop aficionados will of course head to a tropical island , as do most first-timers to the country , dazzled by the variety of destinations peppering Thailand’s waters. Likewise, culture vultures are most suited to big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai , while nature enthusiasts will be best served by combing through the emerald-green mountains of the kingdom’s north and northeast or the jungles along Myanmar’s border. With decent railway infrastructure, buses, ferries, cars for hire and many airports, it's easy to get around : you just need to choose the places to visit in Thailand that best match your interests.

Bangkok cityscape in the evening, as seen from the Moon Bar

Best city for food and nightlife

Many travelers to Thailand land in Bangkok only to immediately transfer to another destination, missing out on a city that remains strangely underrated. After all, Bangkok is the perfect launching pad for day trips to the surrounding region , with floating markets and beaches to the south and popular national parks to the north. It's a great place to stay for a couple of days, at least, before heading to another part of Thailand.

With over 10 million residents, Bangkok is a sprawling megacity. But all it really takes to navigate Bangkok is a little advance preparation. The city’s more than 320,000 restaurants serve a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Ethiopian to Latvian, and its more than 500,000 street food vendors ensure that food is available anywhere in Bangkok 24 hours a day. In Bangkok, or Krung Thep Mahanakorn (the “City of Angels”), the world is your oyster … or chicken satay skewer, or bowl of soup noodles.

Bangkok's bars and clubs offer a surprisingly wide range of styles and drinks. Of the establishments on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list , four are in Bangkok. The city also has a penchant for speakeasy-type places, as well as Japanese-style bars (Japanese being one of Bangkok’s biggest expat communities). If a drink is what you’re after, you will not go thirsty – spring for Q&A Bar’s  Pinkish, a twist on the Negroni with rhubarb and grapefruit gin, the potent Old Fashioned jazzed up with turmeric at Vesper , or go classic with a good, crisp martini at Bamboo Bar .

Planning tip:  Bangkok’s bars and clubs are not permitted to be open all night – in fact, most close at the relatively early time of 1am.

Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn. Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

2. Chiang Mai

Best City for Temples

Chiang Mai is a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains, caves and waterfalls, all of which could take at least three days of your trip. The former capital of the Northern Lanna empire, the Chiang Mai area also boasts more than 300 temples. Some, like Doi Suthep , are famous for their stunning viewpoints; others, like Wat Suan Dok , serve as the burial grounds for the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family. The charmingly weatherbeaten Wat Chedi Luang , founded in 1385, enjoys a convenient location smack dab in the middle of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh , home of the Lion Buddha, dazzles in the sunlight with its golden stupas. 

But there is plenty to experience besides temples. Northern Thai cuisine is unlike any other in Thailand, inspired as it is by Chinese elements and nearly 200 years under Burmese rule. Northern Thais also dress and dance in a distinctive manner, as well as speak their own dialect, called kum mueang . Its many outdoor markets, such as Talat Warorot and Talat Jing Jai, sell food, clothing and knick-knacks that make perfect souvenirs.

Planning tip: From late February to early April, Chiang Mai is usually inundated with smoke from farmers burning land in the mountains to plant their crops. Opt for the Thai “winter” of November to January or the rainy season .

3. The far north

Best region for hiking

Known as the Golden Triangle, the apex of Thailand’s far north – where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – has served as a destination for die-hard nature lovers for decades. Be it via motorcycle, mountain bike or simply walking, exploring this area yields not only striking natural beauty but also the chance to visit both Laos and Myanmar (if only, typically, for a short period of time). Once known as a major production spot for opium, the Golden Triangle is now where visitors come to cruise along the Mekong against a spectacular background, camp in moderate (for Thailand) weather, or visit an elephant camp (or all three!)

Sleepy Chiang Rai , the former capital of the Lanna dynasty, is only 9km (6 miles) south of the Golden Triangle, making it an ideal spot from which to trawl through the surrounding area. This city holds its own attractions as well, including the world-famous  Wat Rong Khun , or White Temple, and is worth exploring for a day in itself.

Planning tip: It's a 1.5-hour trip from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle. Aside from renting a car, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.

Many tourists are walking along the street at Lard Yai, Phuket weekend market, in Phuket old town area, Thailand.

Best island for a blend of cultures

It is the biggest island in Thailand, but  Phuket hosts an entirely different culture from the rest of the country: a mix of Hokkien Chinese, Thai and Malaysian elements. Hokkien-style fried noodles, o-aew (a jelly made from plant seeds), o-tao (an oyster omelet topped with pork rinds) and moo hong (braised pork belly stew) are all dishes that originated in Phuket and are difficult to find even in the rest of Thailand. Little wonder, then, why Phuket is one of Thailand’s most-visited destinations.

Phuket’s architecture is also unique – evidence of its past when it was ruled by the Portuguese. Sino-Portuguese shophouses, with their distinctive colors, tiles and fusion of both Western and Eastern styles, line the streets of the Old Town and are reminiscent of the shophouses in Penang and Singapore. With its top-tier beaches and Old Town culture, Phuket is perfect for both first-timers and couples and can easily take up a week of your visit.

Planning tip: September to October is Phuket’s rainy season, so try to avoid the island during this time. There are plenty of other great destinations beyond Phuket to consider visiting too.

5. The Upper Gulf

Best region for floating markets

The region south of Bangkok is easily reached from the capital, taking up a mere hour or so of driving (depending on traffic). Here is where you will find Thailand’s most famous floating markets, including Damnoen Saduak (at its busiest in the early morning) and Amphawa (more popular with locals and with a more nightlife-y vibe).

The famous Maeklong Railway Market can also be found here, where vendors pull up part of their stalls to allow a train to (slowly) pass six times a day. In Bang Kachao , called "the green lung of Bangkok" for its proximity to the capital, you can hire a bicycle to roll through the wilderness on concrete passageways, passing over canals hiding monitor lizards and reaching the island’s own floating market, Talat Nam Bang Nam Phueng. You can even take a day trip from Bangkok to the beach for sea breezes and fresh seafood ( Pattaya is only 2 hours away by car or bus, after all).

Planning tip: Besides driving, you can take a taxi, bus and train to sites such as Damnoen Saduak and Ampawa, where you can also stay overnight along the water.

White-handed gibbon jumping in the forest of the Khao Yai National Park

6. Khao Yai National Park

Best for wildlife

A 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai has been a popular weekend retreat for nature-loving Bangkokians for decades. As a result, the area around the national park – Thailand’s third largest – is generously studded with houses, hotels, restaurants, shops and even amusement parks. Not surprisingly, it is an ideal place to bring the whole family.

The top attraction, of course, is the 2166 sq km (836 sq miles) that comprise Thailand’s most-visited national park. Blessed with a wealth of hiking trails for everyone from a beginner to an experienced trekker, cooling waterfalls and an impressive range of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, bears and elephants, Khao Yai can provide hours of entertainment for people of any age. Park rangers can be hired to help spot animals by guiding visitors to the places where you're most likely to see them, or to direct them to the best viewpoints or waterfalls nearby.

Planning tip: You should hire a guide ahead of time if you are going wildlife spotting. A park ranger can be found through the park’s website .

A boat floats by a small island covered in green undergrowth

7. Ko Samui

Best island for water sports

If you were to picture the ideal tropical island with soft beaches and turquoise water, chances are you would be picturing Ko Samui . Although not as popular as Phuket, Thailand’s second-largest island still lures more than 2 million visitors a year, making it one of the most-visited islands in the country.

Besides its many charming beaches, Samui also hosts Ang Thong National Park , an archipelago of islands perfect for snorkeling and sea kayaking, Na Muang waterfalls for casual swimming, snorkelers' favorite Silver Beach, and countless spots for scuba diving. On-land attractions are also abundant, including fishing villages, golf courses and a surprising number of wellness retreats.

Planning tip: Samui has a surprisingly long “dry” season from December to August when chances of rain are minimal.

8. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Best destinations for history buffs

The historic city of Ayutthaya  served as Siam’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries before it was ransacked by the Burmese. The remnants of that city have since been established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect fodder for scrambling and exploring. Bike rentals on the edge of the historical park turn Ayutthaya into an even easier place to navigate, making for a pleasant morning of culture/exercise under a canopy of green leaves.

Sukhothai , Siam’s first capital, was built on a smaller scale and also allows bike rentals, making it an ideal hands-on history lesson for families with smaller children. Also a World Heritage site, Sukhothai’s towers and Buddha statues are less visited than its younger sister down south, making it more pleasant for people who prefer to avoid large crowds.

Planning tip: Ayutthaya can be accessed by river boat, which takes up to an hour from Bangkok (less time than driving there). Get to Sukhothai by plane, train and bus or car. 

This article was first published Sep 5, 2021 and updated Jun 15, 2024.

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A Shopper’s Paradise: The Ultimate Guide to Thai Souvenirs in Thailand

Welcome to Thailand, a country renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its bustling markets filled with unique and delightful souvenirs. Whether you’re wandering through the streets of Bangkok, exploring the cultural hubs of Chiang Mai, or relaxing in the beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers an array of memorable keepsakes to bring home. This guide will navigate you through the best Thai souvenirs, their significance, and the top places to find them.

Thai silk

Thai Silk Products

Thai silk is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in Thailand. Known for its high quality and vibrant colors, Thai silk makes an excellent gift for friends and family. You can find silk scarves, ties, dresses, and even traditional Thai garments. Jim Thompson House in Bangkok is a famous spot to buy genuine Thai silk products.

Thai crafts shop in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Handmade Thai Crafts

Handmade crafts are a delightful reflection of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. From wooden carvings to intricate pottery, these items showcase the craftsmanship of Thai artisans. Chiang Mai is particularly known for its artisan markets, where you can find an array of handmade crafts perfect for souvenirs.

Thai spa products

Thai Spa Products

Thailand is renowned for its spa culture, and bringing home some spa products can help you continue the relaxation after your trip. Look for items like essential oils, herbal compress balls, and aromatic candles. These products not only make for great gifts but also allow you to bring a touch of Thai tranquility to your home.

Thai porcelain ceramic plate

Thai Ceramics

Thai ceramics, especially from the northern regions, are beautiful artworks that make perfect souvenirs. The distinctive blue and white pottery, known as Sawankhalok ware, is particularly popular. These ceramics are often hand-painted and can be used as decorative pieces or functional items like plates and bowls.

Exploring the markets and shops of Thailand is an adventure in itself, with each souvenir telling a story of the rich culture and artisanship of this beautiful country. From luxurious Thai silk and handmade crafts to soothing spa products and exquisite ceramics, there is a treasure trove of items waiting for you. Happy shopping!

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