most expensive time to visit thailand

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Travel Expensive

Is Thailand Expensive For Travel? (How Cheap Is Thailand In 2024)

If you haven’t heard the jokes about Bangkok or Phuket, where have you been hiding? Lewd wordplay aside, Thailand is legendary as a holiday destination and for good reason. With delicious thai food, banging beaches, insane nightlife, and awe-inspiring temples, this country is unrivaled when it comes to fun and thrills.

With so much to see and do, you might wonder how much money you would need to put down to really experience all that this incredible country has to offer.

There may be some scammers intending to lighten tourists’ wallets and it could get expensive if you’re not careful, but don’t stress too much about it. This guide will help you save! You don’t need to worry if you travel safely, smartly and with a well thought out Thailand budget.

The answer to “is Thailand expensive?” is simple. No, not at all! It is the perfect destination for budget travelers. Follow this comprehensive expenses guide and you won’t need to break the bank to get the most out of your trip.

Fast Answer: Is Thailand Cheap Or Not?

Cost of flights to thailand, price of accommodation in thailand, cost of transport in thailand, cost of food in thailand, price of alcohol in thailand, cost of attractions in thailand, additional costs of travel in thailand, some final tips for saving money in thailand, so, how much does a holiday to thailand cost, affordability rating: cheap.

The good news is that Yes , Thailand is absolutely and correctly regarded as a low cost travel destination. While perhaps not as “all you can eat for a dollar” -dirt cheap as it used to be, most western travellers with powerful currencies will find the exchange rate very favourable.

Delicious street meals can be found for a $1, there are still plenty of $6 hostels available and you can even stay in Bangkok for around $10 if you know where to look. While there are plenty of well laid Thai-money traps waiting to ensnare the reckless, the travellers who do manage to blow their budget in Thailand usually do so by getting carried away searching for one too many happy endings…

Naturally, if you want to flash the cash then higher end options are available. Still, even a Michelin star restaurant in BK will set you back a fraction of what it costs in the States and if you are happy to drop a few hundred per night on your digs, then you may even bag a villa of Bond villain opulence.

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How Much Does a Trip to Thailand Cost on Average?

First things first. Let’s look at the average Thailand trip cost. Here, I’ll look at some main costs including:

• How much it costs to get there
• Food prices
• Thailand travel cost
• Prices of things to do and see
• Cost of sleeping arrangements

With that said, please note that everything laid down in this guide is based on my own research and personal experience. Thanks to the interesting economic climate we’re in, prices are subject to change. You may also decide to inflate your Thailand trip costs if you’re feeling rich so keep in mind that these are guidelines – not gospel.

All prices in this guide are given in USD. Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht (THB). As of April 2022, 1 USD = 35.03 Thai Baht.

I’ve created a handy table for you below that outlines the cost of a trip to Thailand day-to-day, and over a two-week period. You’ll see that 2 weeks in Thailand cost very little!

2 Weeks in Thailand Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $113 – $550 for a round trip ticket

Usually, when looking at the costs of any international trip, the flights end up being the larger of the blows to the budget. But how large? How much does the average flight cost to Thailand?

Most of us are aware that the costs of flights differ across airlines. The main airports in the larger cities also have times of year that end up being the cheapest time to fly. This can be helpful when planning your Thailand travel budget .

The list below gives you an idea of what to expect to pay for a one-way flight ticket from some major cities during their cheapest month:

• New York to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $460-900 USD
• London to Suvarnabhumi Airport: £236-440 GBP
• Sydney to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $233- 493 AUD
• Vancouver to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $645-1341 CAN

If you don’t mind a bit of research, you can save money by looking for error fares and special deals.

It’s also worthwhile to know that Bangkok’s international airport, Suvarnabhumi is the cheapest one to fly into the country.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $6 – $120/day

Now I’ve put your mind at ease about flights, it’s time to investigate cheap places to stay in Thailand . This country, compared to other holiday destinations, has incredibly reasonable rates, whether you’re a backpacker, hostel hanger, or avid Airbnb enthusiast!

If this is your one big trip of the year, you may want to put some more money towards accommodation by staying in hotels. If you want to keep your Thailand budget tighter, hostels, beach bungalows, and Airbnbs are the way to go. Regardless, the actual location will have a big impact on price. Staying in Phuket is going to be a lot more expensive overall than staying in Koh Phangan.

Let’s take a look at a breakdown of each of these types of accommodation.

Hostels in Thailand

You’re a social animal. You’d prefer to put more money towards your Thailand experiences, food and booze than towards the bed you sleep in. That is if you even sleep! In this case, hopping hostels is the best fit for you.

Thailand is dotted with hostels across its thriving cities. You can expect to pay anywhere from $6 per night for a bed to $80 for a private 2-sleeper room.

I’ve made things easy by listing a few of my top hostels below.

• Diff Hostel, Bangkok :  Small and modern hostel in the heart of Bangkok. Literally 60 seconds away from everything you could need.
• Stamps Backpackers, Chiang Mai :  Their focus is on enhancing the social elements in your Thai adventure with great evening group activities.
• Baan Baan Hostel, Phuket :  Great value for money and feels like a home away from home. Located near restaurants, vendors, cafes, and an awesome local market.

So, how much would two weeks spend backpacking in Thailand cost? Somewhere between $84 and $1120, depending on your need for privacy and taste for Thai-massages…

Airbnbs in Thailand

If you’re more of a lone wolf than a social creature, then staying in Thai Airbnb is more your groove. Some people are also just the self-catering type, which means a flat is where it’s at.

Airbnb gives you a selection of epic places to stay, from busy city centers to quieter city outskirts. They are also reasonable and serve as the midrange cost between hostels and hotels.

That said, Airbnb prices can also vary depending on the scale of comfort you are looking for and the location. You could expect to spend between $30 and $110 per night. I have listed some affordable Airbnb choices below.

• Standard Room Rawai, Phuket:  Best Airbnb apartment for those keeping to a strict budget and wanting quality accommodation. It has a great view and is close to many restaurants.
• Riverfront Tiny House:  Right on Bangkok Yai canal, this stunning apartment offers a different and authentic side of Bangkok.
• Hipster Townhome, Chiang Mai:  This Airbnb is ideal for those looking for a quieter experience but with the upside of seeing Thailand’s Old City up close and personal.

Hotels in Thailand

Hotels are the crown jewels of expense when it comes to accommodation. But, just because they are more expensive than hostels and Airbnbs doesn’t mean they are super expensive in general.

In fact, for those who are looking for all the bells and whistles of accommodation, hotels could be first choice. Think hotels with private pools , refreshing designer cocktails, room service, and fresh towels (and ice!). A night’s stay in a Thailand hotel can range from $60 to $500 or higher.

Some top picks from my side include the following:

• Nordwind Hotel, Chiang Mai:  Just 15 minutes from Chiang Mai airport. It offers a world-class Thai restaurant and is just 10 minutes away from the popular night market.
• Rambuttri Village Plaza, Bangkok:  Located in a cultural hot-spot and close to famous temples, like Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho. Great value for money with two rooftop pools.
• Kata White Villas, Phuket:  A two-minute walk from renowned Kata Beach with the atmosphere of an island paradise. The area is great for snorkeling and close to Phuket International.

Beach Bungalows in Thailand

So, you’ve decided you want the real Thailand experience, and that includes your accommodation.

Beach bungalows offer you a tranquil space of your own. Imagine stepping outside your private room to be faced with the endless ocean. Sand softly caresses your feet and the sound of the waves.

Beach bungalows also vary in price depending on size and location. The good news is that you can book a bungalow for as little as US $22 a night. This puts it in the same league as hostels and apartments, making it a viable option for doing Thailand on a budget.

Here are a few choices that you can take a look at:

• Simple Classic Beachfront Bungalow, Ko Samui:  Ideal for a relaxing holiday with ocean views and nearby restaurants. Comfortable with great features like wifi and a double bed.
• Chill Bungalow, Tambon Wichit:  Situated on secluded Ao Yon Beach, this bungalow offers comfort and function with cozy furniture and wifi.
• Rann Chalet, Tambon Sala Dan:  Just over half a mile from Dao Beach, this bungalow embodies the Thai beach lifestyle with its own little deck and lazy hammock.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $1 – $60/day

I’ve discussed the prices of accommodation, but now I need to look at travel costs to help you budget your trip. After all, we have to look at all the potentially costly elements of a trip to answer the question: how expensive is Thailand?

Luckily, this country is affordable in terms of travel prices. Many different modes of local transportation are available for tourists; even the three-wheeled Tuk Tuk !

Next up, I’m going to take a look at transport costs of the train, bus, intercity transport like taxis, as well as car rental options.

Train Travel in Thailand

The train system, the State Railways of Thailand , has extensive coverage of the country, connecting nearly all of its cities and tourist destinations. The train offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel for tourists, but it is rather slow.

Train seating is divided into different classes: first class, second class, and third class. First-class provides the most luxury while third-class gets you where you need to go (without the fancy, soft seats).

Traveling by train is affordable and pretty easy to do. A train ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai could cost you roughly US $20 – 60 (first class), which isn’t much considering the distance. The train is wonderful if you want to take in the Thai landscape over long distances, but for shorter distances, the bus or taxi is a more convenient option.

If you are visiting Thailand during peak tourist season , you may want to book your train tickets in advance. This is especially true if you are traveling routes between popular tourist destinations (like the trip between Chiang Mai and Bangkok).

Since the train is already such a cheap way to travel in Thailand, there aren’t many other ways to cut costs here.

Bus Travel in Thailand

Thailand’s bus system is highly developed. A number of the smaller cities have bus schedules that allow for long-distance travel to other cities and attractions within the country.

Traveling Bangkok is easy – it boasts the largest number of buses in Thailand. These buses are full of character and come in varying shapes and colors. Budget travelers can also choose between public and private buses, with the latter offering more comfort and better service. Most of these vehicles are in good condition – so there’s no need to stress about breakdowns or, you know, spontaneous combustion.

In terms of the cost of a long-distance ticket, when traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai you can expect to pay between $19 and $30. This makes it a cheaper alternative to train and domestic flights.

Getting Around Cities in Thailand

Unfortunately, this country has a terrible reputation for traffic. Navigating its streets isn’t the easiest of tasks, especially if you’re a newbie. This is why it’s probably best to leave the driving to those who are familiar with Thailand’s routes.

As mentioned before, Thailand has local transportation like buses and taxis. Your daily travel budget in Bangkok is going to be fine; bus prices are extremely cheap. You can expect to pay around $0.25 for bus fare.

This country’s cities also have their own unique methods for getting around. Most of these are really reasonably priced. So you won’t have to cough up too much cash to explore and experience more of the country.

Modes of intercity travel include:

• Tuk Tuks (sheltered three-wheeled bikes – a must-try!)
• Bangkok BTS Skytrain
• Songthaews (picture a pick-up truck with a passenger hold on the back)
• Motorcycle taxis

Renting a Car in Thailand

Honestly, if you really want to experience this country and its identity, I would suggest using public transport systems. Tuk Tuks and songthaews will give you a real feel for Thailand while keeping your budget intact. Also, the heavy traffic in Thailand calls for someone with a more experience at hand to do the driving. Driving in Thailand isn’t known for being super safe at the best of times.

But, if you are certain you want to go the rental route. Here are some things you need to know.

• Rental rates: Start from roughly $22 per day
• Insurance: $13 per day
• Gas: Roughly 1$ per liter

The best way to save money on costs when renting a car is to do your homework on the rental options available. I suggest opting for a smaller, economical car rather than a luxury car (it’s not about the size, remember).

Want to save some cash and explore Thailand by rental car? Use rentalcar.com to find the best deal possible. There are some great prices on the site and they aren’t difficult to find.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $4 – $25/day

Now for the part that all the foodies have been waiting for! How much is a trip to Thailand with regards to food?!

Thailand has an interesting, diverse, and acclectic array of food. There so much delicious food, it will most likely become your new favourite cuisine. The beverages are not to be sniffed at either! From refreshing iced coffees and Thai rolled ice cream to basil chicken and Panang (peanut) curry, you’ll soon be part of the Thai munch bunch. And begging for more!

Fortunately, food in Thailand is cheap. But keep in mind that if you dine out frequently, the costs will add up. Here’s a list of some of the most popular food in Thailand and their costs:

• Pad Thai noodles with chicken: around $1
• One of the famous Thai curries: $1 – $3.50
• Meal at a restaurant: $3 – $5

One of the best tips I can give you is to eat local. Western food costs more than local fare. When in Thailand, eat like the Thai! Also, selecting the seafood option for anything will ramp up the price. Stick to chicken, beef, and pork to play it safe.

Just an FYI, you don’t want to be drinking tap water in Thailand. Drink bottled water – it’s about $0.50.

Where to Eat Cheaply in Thailand

There is definitely a difference in prices when it comes to where you eat! I won’t keep it a secret from you. Here are some tips for Thailand in terms of where to go.

• Eat street food. Street food is the way forward. It might sound unsavory but the truth is you can find the most delicious food at the vibey street stalls dotted along the city streets. In addition, you’ll bask in the sounds and smells of the city. You can literally pay about 1$ for cheap street food in Thailand. For this, you can enjoy coconut pancakes and mango rice dishes! And, don’t worry about getting sick. The food is fresh.
• Open-air restaurants are also significantly cheaper than traditional sit-down restaurants.
• Food courts might sound Western, but Thailand is full of them. These are usually found in shopping centers (big and small). Food courts sell traditional Thai food like chicken satays, roasted pumpkin, pad thai and vegetarian meals. They also have the huge benefit of being air-conditioned – a welcome change to Thailand’s sometimes oppressive heat. You won’t spend more than $5 for a meal, dessert, and drink for two people.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $1.5 – $50/day

So, how much is beer in Thailand? Where booze is concerned, the tables turn. A night on the town ends up being a helluva lot more expensive than a quieter evening spent at a restaurant or cruising the night markets.

Here’s a helpful hint to keep Thailand costs down if you’re set on indulging. The cost of beer in Thailand is far affordable when you stick to local brew. Buying alcohol from the local 7- Eleven works out cheaper than buying drinks at bars. Imported alcohol is expensive so treat alcohol like you would food and stay local.

Just because it’s local doesn’t mean it’s lesser-than. Thailand has some great booze on offer. Here are two examples.

• Thai beers (Singha, Chang and Leo): $1.5 – $2.5 depending on where you get it
• Sangsom (popular rum): roughly $9 a bottle

A few nights out in Thailand would be an unforgettable experience, especially if you witness talented fire dancers and try the sweet but “dangerous” bucket drinks available at the bars.

You can still make your pocket happy by having drinks at your accommodation before your night out. You can also take advantage of happy hours at some of the local watering holes to get your buzz. And, avoid craft beer for your wallet’s sake.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $1.50 – $65/day

Thailand has earned the nickname, “The Land of Smiles” for good reason. The chances of you not having a smile on your face after a few days in this quirky country are slim. There are tons of cool temples to visit (some a bit weird, some downright spiritual), and colorful and extravagant markets. You also have to hit a Full Moon party – it’s a howl!

Here’s a list of my cost estimates for some awesome Thailand activities:

• The Full Moon party: $50-$60 (including transport and money for booze!)
• White Temple of Northern Thailand: $1.50
• Museum of Death: $6.50
• The Grand Palace: $15

Don’t feel limited by the above items. There are hundreds of awesome activities in Thailand  you can try, and many are well priced.

If you’re smart, there are a couple of ways to cut costs.

• Museum fan? Instead of buying tickets for each museum in Bangkok, see what combo tickets are available.
• Really, to risk sounding like a wet blanket, the best way to save money is to not drink. I’d recommend planning one or two blowouts during your trip. Then, stick to being a sober cobra for the rest of your Thai adventure.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

As much as I’ve given you a general idea about the cost of a trip to Thailand, there will always be unforeseen costs. Especially if you’re that clumsy person who stubs your toe or gets cut open on the regular, you know what I mean.

Do you like to buy souvenirs in each country you visit? Well, you will want to factor that in. Need a little book with common Thai phrases in it? Then you need to plan that little extra to fork up.

I suggest setting some money aside for these types of additional expenses. A decent amount to set aside would be 10% of the total expenditures.

Tipping in Thailand

Good news on this note. Tipping is not common in Thailand so you won’t need to worry about too many forlorn faces when you put your wallet away after paying. However, it is appreciated in some situations. When buying street food, you don’t need to pay anything extra.

Restaurants, however, play to a different tune. Keep in mind that staff at restaurants can work long shifts with low pay. If you’re buying a snack and a coffee at a cafe, leaving $0.5 is acceptable. If you’re heading out to fancier places, then you can look at leaving higher tips, more in the region of 10%.

Get Travel Insurance for Thailand

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Well young Padawan, I have come this far. It’s time for us to impart some final tips for saving money in this exciting country.

• Keep an eye on how much spending money you use each day and set a daily budget for yourself: If you blow the budget on a Full Moon party one day, try and do some activities in the following days that keep you under budget.
• Travel as a local would: Use Songthaews and buses. If your destination is close enough, use your God-given feet.
• Eat and drink local: I can’t stress this enough. Become one with the Thai!
• Haggle: Don’t treat the first price you receive as the final price. Practice those haggling skills .
• Don’t be naive: There are scammers out there so leave your gullibility at home.
• Watch the locals when it comes to food and purchases: Take a look and see what they are paying for certain items and then follow suit.
• Bring the essentials to Thailand : Nothing is worse than having to spend money on something you could’ve just brought from home.
• Have a water bottle : Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
• Earn money while you travel: Teaching English while traveling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Thailand .
• Become a volunteer with Worldpackers : Give back to the local community and, in exchange, you’re room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Thailand.
• SIM cards for Thailand can be cheap if you shop around.

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After taking a long, hard look at vacation in Thailand costs, I’ve come to the conclusion that…No, Thailand is not expensive and is actually a great and affordable holiday destination. If you go for the more savvy choices in terms of transport and accommodation, you will have an absolute blast without destroying your piggy bank.

The best ways to save cash are pretty practical and easy to remember.

Keep it local – for everything: food, drink, transport…If you do that, sticking to a budget will be a breeze. Track your expenses and try to stick to a daily budget. Remind yourself that the daily budget isn’t a target, it’s a limit!

Lastly, the best thing you can do for yourself is moderate your drinking. Not for your liver’s health but for your wallet’s health. Alcohol (and partying with it) is one of the largest holiday expenses you’ll encounter in Thailand. I suggest planning one or two big nights and braving the rest of your trip sober (you’ll remember it better that way anyway).

So, how much money to bring to Thailand?

What I think an average daily budget for Thailand should be: $50

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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I’ve been a frequent visitor to Thailand over the past 25yrs only last year got married out there, it’s a lovely place sadly it’s also become very expensive with price increases right across the board. Backpackers can still find reasonably priced hostels costing around 500 – 700 baht per night depending on area, would avoid Bangkok as very expensive City for nightlife and accommodation, even the alcohol twice as expensive as you’d normally pay – food can still be relatively cheap if eating in the food halls and night markets – avoid taxis in order keep costs down using local travel buses and rail – rail service excellent those seeking see around the city or area of stay may enjoy the local Tuk Tuk ( avoid local taxi motorbikes if possible ) often drunk without insurance – would advise using the baht bus there everywhere usually costing just 20 baht. If visiting the beach just a word of warning avoid jet skies at all cost especially in seaside resorts which are run by the local mafia – 99.9% will try telling you that you caused damage and seek compensation, when you argue your often confronted with groups of Thais it’s just not worth it, they’ve some wonderful attractions suitable for all age groups –

Simply put, this article is inaccurate in terms of increased costs and subjective based on “cheap”.

In terms of Aussies on vacation, there are many cheaper neighboring destinations such as Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, and Vietnam. For the UK traveler, since OP’s stated residence is between AU and UK, there are many hundreds of cheaper destinations within driving distance.

Further, the inflation rates in Thailand are staggering. In 2003, a 2 BR luxury Condo in Pattaya, a common expat destination, was hovering around 1m Baht or 30k USD. Current prices for the same unit (not an equivalent new unit) are around 6-8m Baht. Comparable to US property prices in non major cities (180k USD). Chiangmai up north is offering 2 BR apartments for 5m Baht. Not incredibly cheaper. Marginally cheaper at best. Food prices are, when shopping for fresh food and not the moldy food at some farmer’s markets, running at prices similar to the Netherlands or UK. Any city in Thailand, Chiangmai included, are not offering significantly discounted prices over highly developed countries. Similar claims that the Philippines is fun and cheap are also easily debunked by a simple visit to Manila, Davao, or Cebu. Property prices are running similarly. The days of the Vietnam war R&R destination extravaganza are also over. Increased tariffs on Alcohol, cigarettes, and “other” night trades are increasing at exponential rates. It would be cheaper and equally unsatisfying for an American to stay in America and get drunk than to fly to Thailand to do so, for example.

I won’t deny the allure of Thailand for some of it’s beauty in Nature and wonderful people. This fact cannot be argued. You would have a difficult time finding a safer destination as well, assuming you stay away from illegal activities. However, to say it remains a budget destination is a laughable falsehood. A cursory search for cheapest hostels at any tourist destination in Thailand is spitting out results for 50-100 USD per night stays. I can find the same in Houston. Or Rotterdam. Or Belgium. Or Bucharest. Or Honolulu. Often with much better quality. Air transportation within the country is no cheaper than anywhere else, and bus transportation rivals western destinations. I have noted ferry/boat transportation within country to remain low compared to neighbors but I imagine this will be corrected as well. Vehicle costs are actually much higher in Thailand than in western and nearby Asian destinations. I will give Thailand credit, circa 2023, gasoline prices are 20% cheaper than American gas prices. Comparable to EU prices.

This article could be more accurate if the title was, “I like Thailand and I miss visiting there and it feels cheaper than home”

Note, for 30 baht, I can buy cheap street food using leftover ingredients that were sold just prior going bad at the market. Or I could get higher quality food at a homeless shelter in a western country for free. for 3500 Baht, I can get a decent meal for 2 in Thailand or a decent meal in the US for 2. Simply put, globally, prices have gone up dramatically in the last few years and will continue to do so post-covid as economies attempt to recover.

Thiland for travellers still offers amazing value for money, quality and lifestyle.

My son just booked a trip from Vancouver to Bangkok it cost over 1500.00 can.

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Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Thailand makes an excellent destination for backpackers, vacationers and digital nomads year-round. However, the seasons vary widely from region to region and coast to coast. We’re going over the seasons of each region to help you determine the best time to visit Thailand for your travel needs!

Located smack dab in the center of the mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand makes an excellent destination throughout most of the year.

However, in order to avoid monsoon rains and smoke season, you’ll want to be sure to do a little research and planning before packing your bags so you are sure to visit the right places at the  right time .

That’s why we’re here!

With such a diverse landscape throughout the country – from the mountains in the north to the islands in the south – the climate in Thailand varies widely from region to region.

Plus, the seasons are not as straight forward as in other places in the world. Instead of winter, spring, summer and autumn, the Thai seasons are best described as “cool”, “hot” and “rainy”.

In this article, we’re going over the seasons of each region to help you determine the best time to visit Thailand for what you’d like to see and do on your trip.

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

In general, you’ll find the most comfortable temperatures across the country, with little chance of rain, from November – February. 

Now, let’s break it down by region…

Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Bangkok and Chiang Mai have the best weather from  November – February . Outside of these months, you can expect heavy rains and extreme heat, with lots of smoke in the north of the country.

Andaman Sea

If you plan to visit the Thai islands, the best time to visit the Andaman Sea (Thailand’s southwest coast) is  November – April . Monsoon season is May – September in this region, so you will likely want to avoid it during this time.

Thailand’s Gulf 

Thailand’s Gulf Coast will have its best weather from  December – March , but the summer months ( July – September ) are also a decent time to visit and the crowds tend to be fewer. Monsoon season in the Gulf is much shorter than the Andaman Sea, generally lasting from October through the end of November.

When should I travel to Thailand?

As with any destination, there is no straightforward answer to this question. But we’re not going to leave you hanging…

In this article, we’ve organized Thailand’s seasons by region, and listed some of the best things to do during each season all over Thailand. We hope reading through these suggestions will help you decide the best time to visit Thailand for YOU.

Answer these questions to get started:

• What region of the country do you plan to visit?
• Do you mind a bit of rain?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by high humidity?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking?
• Are you planning to do some scuba diving while in Thailand?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Thailand.

Best time to visit Thailand Guide

General Thailand Info

Our experience in Thailand

Thailand geography overview, map of thailand, weather in thailand.

• What to pack for Thailand

Know where you’d like to go in Thailand? Jump to that section of this article so you can quickly see what time of year will bring the best weather.

Seasons by Region

• Northern Thailand
• Central Thailand
• West Coast (Andaman Sea)
• Gulf of Thailand

Where to go during each season

Not sure where you’d like to go, but know what time of year you’ll be traveling? Click on the months so you can see which destinations will be best during that season.

• November – February  (“Cool Season”)
• March – May  (“Hot Season”)
• June – October  (“Rainy Season”)

Overall BEST Time to Visit Thailand

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our advice for the best time to visit Thailand. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Southeast Asia !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

We’ve visited Thailand in all seasons

Our experience:

• We’ve spent quite a bit of time living and traveling in Thailand, and with the exception of June, we’ve been in Thailand during every other month (many of which we’ve been multiple times).

Our favorite time of the year in Thailand

November – January

This is easily our favorite time of the year to visit Chiang Mai and the surrounding area. It’s also a great time to visit the Andaman Coast and the islands in the Gulf.

Worst time to visit Thailand

Starting in mid-February, the burning season begins and it’s not a good time to be in the northern part of the country. We’ve been there for the burning season twice, and it’s rough. (Not recommended!) 

By April, it is uncomfortably hot in the north. The only reprieve is the (very fun!) Songkran celebration (a water festival) which takes place during April. 

Good to know: From February through April, the islands and coasts can be a better choice.

The summer months are very hot, muggy, and rainy in Thailand and can bring monsoon weather to the islands and Andaman Coast.

Thailand is a country in the middle of mainland Southeast Asia with nearly 320,000 square miles (513,120 km²) an odd shape with a long tail leading down towards the equator.

Thailand has everything from high mountains and an upland plateau in the north, to central plains and tropical islands in the south.

The map above shows a very rough break down of the northern, central and souther regions of the country. Generally speaking, you can consider Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai to be in the north, Bangkok is part of central and the lower leg and Thai islands make up the south.

The weather in Thailand varies from region to region with the north experiencing the greatest fluctuation in temperatures throughout the year and the south experiencing very little variation the closer you get to the equator.

The climate is mostly tropical with warm temperatures throughout the year (with the exception of the mountains in the far north).

The seasons in Thailand can be categorized into three main groups: Cool, Hot and Rainy.

Though somewhat unpredictable, and varying from coast to coast and by region, they follow the general pattern below.

• Cool season:  November to February; also peak tourist season
• Hot season:  March to May
• Rainy season:  June to October

The cool season  is felt most distinctly in the far north, but temperatures hardly change in the south.

The hot season  is essentially the dry season where central and north are at their highest temperatures with clouds of dust gathering in the air.

The rainy season  is caused by the southwest monsoon, which is unpredictable. However, the Gulf Coast is effected less by the southwest monsoon and more by the northwest monsoon, causing November to consistently be its wettest month.

We’ve broken down the seasons by region below to give you a better idea of the climate in specific areas.

Seasons in Northern Thailand

The weather in northern Thailand tends to be less humid and experiences the greatest rage of temperatures throughout the year. During January, the average low temp in Chiang Mai is 59ºF (15ºC). On the flip side, during hot season, the north of the country is dry and dusty and temperatures can skyrocket.

• Hot Season:  February – April
• Rainy Season:  May – September
• Cool Season:  October – January

What to pack for visiting Northern Thailand

• Lots of layers for cooler nights and warmer days
• Good hiking shoes or
• Swimwear – even though you’re not by the water, there are plenty of pools and waterfalls!

Seasons in Central Thailand

Central Thailand experiences the country’s three seasons fairly equally throughout the year. The one constant is humidity, which makes the air feel hotter than it should.

• Hot Season:   March – June
• Rainy Season:  June – October
• Cool Season:  October – February

What to pack for visiting Central Thailand

• Loose, lightweight clothes & layers
• A shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders when entering temples and religious sites
• An  insulated water bottle  to stay hydrated

Seasons in South Thailand & the Thai Islands

Temperatures in southern Thailand are more consistent throughout the year, with less variation the closer you get to the equator. There is really only 2 seasons down here: wet and dry.

The climate does vary from coast to coast in the south based on the different monsoons. Which is why we’ve split up the coasts below to show seasonal variations.

A Note About Diving:  Diving and snorkeling will be at it’s best during the winter months. December and January will be more crowded since it’s the peak season. If you want to see some mantas and local whale sharks, it’s best to plan your trip around February to April. 

Phuket, Krabi & Andaman Coast (Southwest Coast)

• The wettest months are September and October
• Dry Season:  mid-November – March

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao (Gulf of Thailand)

• The rainiest months are October and November
• “Shoulder season”  (not too much rain): January and February
• May – October can be windy

What to pack for visiting Southern Thailand

• Reef safe sunscreen
• Bug repellant  (solids are the way to go!)
• A wide brimmed hat or baseball cap to keep the sun out of your eyes

Cool Season in Thailand: November – February

Peak of the dry season in most parts of the country, November sees cooler temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The western Thai Gulf coast is the only part of the country still experiencing rain.

Getting into the peak of tourism season in Thailand, weather is great all over the country and temperatures are relatively cool. There is little to no rainfall and tourists flock to the beaches for plenty of sunshine.

Peak tourism season and great weather all over Thailand. Accommodation will be at premium prices, and you should book well in advance. The cooler temps in the northern region are great for hiking in the mountains and trekking through the jungles. 

Still peak tourism season all over the country. The Chinese New Year typically happens in February (thought it follows the lunar calendar and the exact vary from year to year).

Best places to visit during cool season in Thailand

• Northern Thailand  experiences the most comfortable weather of the year during this time.  Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai and  Pai  are all great places to add to your itinerary.
• Consider visiting  lesser known destinations , as this time of year is peak tourism season.
• Sam Phan Bok:  A natural wonder only accessible during dry season. Found in Ubon Ratchathani, Isan, thousands of holes are scattered across the Mekong River bed. 
• Bo Sang , a small village in the north hosts their annual Umbrella Festival on the 3rd weekend in January. 
• Chinatown in  Bangkok   is a fun place to witness the Chinese New Year celebrations.
• Visit some of the  Thai Islands in the Andaman Sea  such as  Koh Lipe ,  Koh Lanta  and Phuket.

Best things to do in Thailand during cool season

• Celebrate the  Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai   in November.
• Visit temples in  Bangkok   such as Wet Saket during the Thai national holiday of Makha Bucha to observe spiritual rituals.
• Krabi Naga Fest , a music festival near Krabi.
• Jai Thep Music and Arts Festival  takes place in Chiang Mai in early February.
• Loy Krathong festival is celebrated around the country  by floating krathongs on the rivers to give thanks to the water spirits.
• Ayutthaya World Heritage  and Red Cross Fair boasts stunning light shows amid the ancient ruins.
• Big Mountain Music Festival  in Phetchaburi happens in December.
• The Andaman coast  is at it’s best in November, so it’s a perfect time to go  island hopping .

Hot Season in Thailand: March – May

Temperatures are starting to heat up all over Thailand, so it’s best to stay near the water. In the north, burning season is in full force, so you’ll want to avoid traveling there as much as possible. (Trust us, we lived in Chiang Mai during these months, and we would  not  recommend it.) Instead, this is prime time for  diving in the Andaman Sea  at popular locations such as the Similan Islands. 

One of the hottest months in Thailand. Be sure your accommodation has air conditioning if you are visiting during this month. Remember to drink lots of water and use plenty of sunscreen too. 

Another incredibly hot month in Thailand. With many public and religious holidays, it’s a good time to get off the beaten path and experience new and interesting cultural celebrations. 

Best places to visit during hot season in Thailand

• The  ancient city of Ayutthaya  is a great place for boxing fans to visit on National Muay Thai Day
• Bangkok, Phuket or  Chiang Mai   during Songkran Festival
• Similan Islands liveaboard   for scuba diving in the Andaman sea

Best things to do in Thailand during hot season

• Turtle Release Festival  in Phang Nga in March
• Thailand’s International Balloon Festiva l happens around this time in a different location every year
• Pattaya International Music Festival:  one of Thailand’s best, takes place over a 3-day weekend in March and it’s 100% free to attend!
• Check out a Muay Thai demonstration on  National Muay Thai Day  on March 17
• Songkran Festival  is famous for it’s water fights in the streets takes place around the country in April during the Thai New Year

Rainy Season in Thailand: June – October

The start of the rainy season means you’ll want to carry an umbrella and wear shoes that can get wet. Take extra precautions on scooters as the roads can be dangerous when wet.

Wet and humid all over Thailand, you’ll want to pack and umbrella and wear plenty of bug spray! Be careful of leeches if you are planning on venturing into the jungle.

Typically the wettest month in all of Thailand. Come prepared for the rain and be sure to have a long list of indoor activities to entertain yourself during this month. 

This is the wettest time of year on the Andaman coast, but rains generally ease up in the north. 

Central and Northern Thailand will have dried up by October, but nearly all of the islands on both coasts will still be experiencing heavy rain.

Best places to visit during rainy season in Thailand

• National Parks such as  Khao Yai National Park and Kanchanaburi’s Erawan National Park  will be wonderful this time of year.
• Koh Samui, Koh Phangan,  Hua Hin, and Cha Am will be some of the driest beaches and islands to visit.
• Bangkok  for its magnitude of indoor activities and International festivals.
• The  small mountain town of  Pai  for its decent weather in October.
• Visit the  Mekong River  in the north to experience the mysterious natural phenomenon known as Naga Fireballs of Nong Khai in late October.

Best things to do in Thailand during rainy season

• Phi Ta Khon Festival in Dan Sai district of Loei province
• Go chasing waterfalls!  They will be at their fullest during the rainy season.
• Visit the  floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park  
• Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival in Isan
• Scuba diving in Koh Tao
• Visit temples, museums, art galleries and malls  to stay indoors as much as possible during the rain.
• Experience  long boat races  on rivers all over the country in September.

The best time to visit Thailand in our opinion…

There really is no “bad” time to visit Thailand, but it’s a good idea to have the seasons in mind when planning your itinerary and activities you’d like to experience during your trip.

Our personal pick would be to visit Thailand between November and February, as you’ll have great weather all around the country.

When to avoid traveling in Thailand

• Chiang Mai : If possible, avoid visiting from mid-February through early April. This is “burning season” and air quality can be quite bad.
• Andaman Sea  (Krabi, Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta) : Rainy season is from May – October
• Gulf Islands  (Koh Tao, Koh Chang, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui) : Rainfall is heaviest in October & November
• Similan Islands : The National Marine Park is closed between the months of November through March.

What to pack for your trip to Thailand

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in SE Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Thailand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• How to Travel Sustainably in Thailand
• Thailand Beaches: Two Week Island Hopping Itinerary
• Scuba Diving in Thailand: The Best Liveaboards for Every Budget
• Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Bangkok

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We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Thailand before? When did you go and what was your experience like? Leave your comments in the section below and we’ll do our best to respond to any questions!

Comments (7) on “ Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

Thailand is everyone first choice for holiday.

Hello ! I will be traveling to Thailand from May 12 to May 29th 2023 with my family. Is there any destinations that are closed to tourists to due the low season or rainy season? Which areas do you recommend me to go in May to avoid rain 😉 Thank you

Hello Wanderers! I am planning to visit Thailand later in the year, after having been there back at the turn of the century. I was very drawn overall toward the culturally rich aspects of life. My query is related to the continuing Covid 19 pandemic waves, and the related fallout: sudden travel restrictions, new testing rules, already booked reservations, which one is then unable to fulfill. Is there a thing such as outright relevant cause to have some pre-booked accommodations annulled, due situations fully beyond a tourist’s control, like a cancelled / well delayed flight, or service shutdown. Wonder if you could share feedback. Cheers ! Julius

This is a useful blog detailing about the best time to visit Thailand. What I liked about it is the description about the climate region-wise that makes planning a trip easy.

Hi, great page – comprehensive, yet easy to read, and great pictures. Maybe you can include a map of the country, making it easier for readers to see where these wonderful places are geographically located. Thanks.

Been to Thailand Phuket before loved it. Coming back next year in August 2022. Can you tell me. Are we able to travel to phi phi island. , And I’m praying Phuket will be open for international visitors. From AUSTRALIA, That are fully vaccinated, Hopefully. NO. QUARANTINE,

Similan Islands are closed from 1st May until end of October officially. In reality it however opens somewhere mid-October

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The Ultimate Guide to the Trip to Thailand Cost in 2024

When considering a Thailand trip, you may want to know how much it would cost. Is it expensive? Thailand is not an expensive destination. It is a cost-effective country to travel around. For a lot of things, Thailand is very affordable. Moreover, Thailand can suit all kinds of budgets, from economical to luxury.

Here is a breakdown of how much it costs for flights, hotels, transportation, sightseeing, food, and activities.

• Cost of International Flights to Thailand
• Cost of Accommodation in Thailand
• Cost of Eating and Drinking in Thailand
• Cost of Transportation in Thailand
• Cost of Attractions/Activities in Thailand
• Thailand Trip Cost for a Private Tour  
• Tips for Saving Money

The Cost of International Flights to Thailand

Flying to Thailand from the U.S. now requires at least one layover, most of which are in Singapore, Seoul, Doha, Paris, London, Munich, and other European/Asian flight hubs.

The cost of airfares varies a lot depending on when you fly and which airline you use, from around 700 to 1,300 USD for a one-way economy trip.

A transfer in an Asian country, like Singapore, is cheaper . August, September, and October are Thailand's low season because of the rainy season. Air tickets drop by around 40% during this period.

Europe has direct flights to Bangkok - from London, Paris, Zurich... A one-way air ticket is around 600 to 1,000 GBP flying economy.

Suggested reading: How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand — 7 Easy Steps

The Cost of Accommodation in Thailand

Prices of hotels vary widely from city to city and from season to season.

The busiest (and most expensive) period is from November to January/February . To find good accommodation during this period, we recommend you plan and book well in advance (at least 3 months before departure).

The low season runs from July to October. Prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists.

Here is a table to show you the approximate cost for a standard 2-person room around Thailand for reference only:

Hotels are included in our itineraries and we can generally secure favorable prices. We recommend suitable hotels based on your preferred location, room specification (e.g. no-smoking room, family room for Parents and 2 -3 kids), and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

Suggested reading: 14-Day Thailand Itinerary: Best Way to Spend Two Weeks in Thailand

The Cost of Eating and Drinking in Thailand

Thailand has a variety of delicacies and is not expensive. Many unique Thai foods, like pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) and som tam (spicy papaya salad), can be bought from roadside stalls for 1–2 USD.

A decent restaurant costs about 10–15 USD per person. Luxury restaurants cost 50–60 USD per person and upwards .

Fresh fruit juice can be found easily on the roadside for 0.5–1 USD. As for alcohol, the best deals are in convenience stores, like 7-11s. A bottle of beer costs about $2. Drinks in bars and restaurants are more expensive, costing 3–4 USD a bottle. Drinks at luxury restaurants start at 15 USD.

Suggested reading: Planning a Trip to Southeast Asia: A Beginner's Guide

The Cost of Transportation in Thailand

Flying is the fastest and most popular way to travel between cities. Airfares range from 30 to 100 USD for economy seats.

There are many airlines in Thailand with different prices and services. See our article: The 8 Best Domestic Airlines in Thailand for Tourists .

Ferry or speedboat is the main way to travel between most islands, such as Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands. See How to Get from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands.

Traveling between cities also can be done for 8 to 72 USD on trains or 6 to 20 USD on buses.

Thailand's public transportation within cities is very affordable. Taking Bangkok as an example, for 0.50–1.00 USD you can take a bus or the MRT/BTS. Taxis charge 1 USD minimum and make sure they use their meters to avoid price disagreements. Tuk-tuks charge ½–1 USD for a 10-minute walking distance - 800 m (½ a mile).  The rental car is approximately 1,000-1,500 Thai Baht ($30-$45) per day for a basic car.

Transportation on the islands is higher in cost than in the cities. Renting a motorbike is a popular way to enjoy the scenery around the islands.

Suggested reading: 2-Week Southeast Asia Itineraries for Honeymoons, Families, and More

The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Thailand

Tickets for most tourist spots in Thailand range from 1 to 15 USD, i.e. they're very affordable. The most famous Thailand attraction, the Grand Palace in Bangkok, costs 500 THB (14 USD).

Some temples and museums are free of charge, like Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai.

Some beach activities or entertainments like snorkeling, night shows, etc. cost about 15–50 USD a time.

Suggested reading: Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Thailand & When is the Rainy Season

How much does it cost for a private tour in Thailand?

A private tour is an affordable luxury in Thailand! Private service is value for money there. Here are the prices for a private tour based on a group of 2 people during the peak season, for your reference:

• On a medium budget, touring Thailand typically costs around US$150–200 per day per person (including 4-star hotels, airfares within Thailand, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a higher budget of US$200–250 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (including 5-star hotels, airfares within Thailand, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a family trip (2 adults plus 2–3 children) for 2 weeks in Thailand or in Southeast Asia, it normally costs US$10,000–15,000 per family excluding international flights from/to America or Europe.

Her are some Thailand tours along with costs for your reference. The prices below are per person, based on a great-quality 2-person experience (4/5-star hotels, private transfers, guide service, etc.). 

• Example: our 12-Day Thailand Wonders Tour , from 2,829 USD per person
• Example: our 9-Day Thailand Family Tour , from 1,689 USD per person

Check out some private Thailand tours and private Southeast tours to get a general idea of the cost. We can tailor-make an itinerary based on your budget. Contact us to get a quote for your trip. 

Tips to Make Your Experience More Cost-effective

Before delving into the details of planning your trip to Thailand, let's explore some essential tips to make your experience more enjoyable and cost-effective:

• Timing Matters: Thailand experiences different seasons, and your travel dates can significantly impact your expenses. The peak tourist season, from November to February, is the most expensive. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, like March to May or September to October, to save on accommodation and activities. The trip cost may drop by 20%–40%.
• Explore Beyond Popular Destinations: While famous destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are popular, consider exploring lesser-known gems. Places like Pai, Koh Tao, or Sukhothai offer unique experiences with a more affordable price tag.
• Accommodation Choices: Opt for a mix of accommodation options. While luxury resorts can be tempting, Thailand offers a plethora of budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. Explore local stays for an authentic experience without breaking the bank.
• Transportation: Thailand has an extensive and affordable transportation network. Choose budget airlines when traveling around Thailand, such as Lion Air. It may save 20%–30%.
• Street Food Adventure: Embrace the local street food scene for delicious and budget-friendly meals. Thai street food is not only flavorful but also a significant part of the cultural experience. Venture beyond restaurants to savor the true taste of Thailand.
• Island Hopping on a Budget: Instead of opting for expensive island tours, consider organizing your island-hopping adventure. Public ferries and boats are available at more affordable rates, allowing you to explore Thailand's stunning islands at your own pace.

Suggested reading:  Best 3 Thailand Itineraries for 12 Days

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Get a wonderful Thailand vacation by sending us a message . Or check out our sample itineraries for inspiration:

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Low Prices, and Fun Festivals

Here are the best times to go to Thailand based on what you want to see and do.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Smaller Crowds

The best times to visit thailand for great weather, the best times to visit thailand for lower prices, the best times to visit thailand for festivals, the best times to visit thailand for scuba diving, the best times to visit thailand for island-hopping, the best times to visit thailand for shopping, worst times to visit thailand.

Thailand is one of the most accessible and well-loved travel destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but there are better times than others for specific activities like scuba diving and island-hopping.

"Thailand is a tropical country with two distinct seasons," says Jack Tydeman , a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Southeast Asia specialist for Audley Travel . "It is typically warm all year round. However, the winter months from November through March are the peak dry season and are considered the best time to travel to the majority of the country. April is the hottest month in Thailand before the country moves into the wetter season from May through October."

Here's a breakdown of Thailand's main travel seasons:

• High Season: November to March
• Shoulder Seasons: April to June and the month of October
• Low Season: July to September

Before you book your jungle tree house and island boat tour, learn about the best times to visit Thailand.

Michela Buttignol/Travel + Leisure

Thailand's low season coincides with monsoon season. With the exception of the Thai islands, which draw students from Australia and Europe during their college breaks, the wet and muggy climate keeps many tourists away between July and September. Going during this quiet time has its perks: you'll get cheaper accommodations, better access to restaurants and activities typically inundated by vacationers, and potentially more of a local experience. At the same time, there are limitations. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. Tours are less abundant, and some hotels even close during the off-season, so be sure to plan ahead if you're considering a trip in the summer.

For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November through March in most of the country, sometimes even lasting until April or May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf — home to the islands of Koh Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao — which is rainiest from September through December.

On the Andaman coast, the coolest, most comfortable weather is around November to February, with average temperatures in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous vegetation quenched from monsoon season.

As for the low season, it's best to temper your expectations. "It is possible to travel over the summer months. However, you may see some short, sharp showers," Tydeman says. "As the east coast of Thailand has its own unique weather patterns, summer is actually the drier season there."

Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low season, July to September.

"The low season does have its advantages, as it's quieter and the rates are typically lower. This makes Thailand a great-value destination during the summer," says Tydeman. While this time of year is generally wetter, you might even get better natural scenery. "Summer is now commonly referred to as 'green season' due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls."

Travelers should try to experience at least one of Thailand's many festivals, which celebrate everything from flowers and fruit to monkeys and elephants. Two of the most beloved are the late-November lantern festivals: Yi Peng, during which participants release thousands of rice-paper lanterns into the sky; and Loy Krathong, when banana-leaf baskets are filled with flowers and burning candles and released onto lakes, rivers, and canals. Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng epicenter, and Loy Krathong is celebrated across the country.

The Chinese New Year in January or February turns Bangkok's Chinatown into a sea of dragons, drummers, worshippers, and visitors, all under the glow of firecrackers and red lanterns. Also in February is the three-day Flower Festival in Chiang Mai, which features a parade of elaborately decorated floats.

Songkran (aka the Water Splashing Festival) ushers in the Thai New Year in mid-April with parades, parties, and performances across the country. Songkran turns Thailand into "one big water fight," Tydeman says. "It also coincides with the hottest month of the year, so it's a perfect excuse to get wet."

The Vegetarian Festival takes place in late September or early October and commemorates a nine-day abstinence from meat in honor of the Nine Emperor Gods of Taoism.

Divers from all over the world flock to Thailand to explore the country's famous underwater sites and stunning marine parks. Thailand's east coast is largely dive-friendly throughout the year. If you plan an excursion to the Andaman Sea, home to the extraordinary Similan and Surin Islands, time the trip between November and April, when the seas are calm and visibility is clearest. Also keep in mind that Similan and Surin marine parks close from mid-May to mid-October.

Boating from one jungle-topped limestone island to another is a great way to explore Thailand, but downpours between May and October can put the kibosh on nautical fun. Some southern Andaman resorts even close for the rainy season.

"The islands off the west coast, like Phuket, are best to visit in the winter months, whereas the islands off the east coast, like Koh Samui, are great to visit in the summer," says Tydeman.

This means you should time your bouncing around Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Lanta, and other Andaman isles between late October (when the rains taper off) and May or June. Conversely, Gulf of Thailand idylls Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Ko Pha-ngan are at their rainiest and windiest between October and December.

No matter what time of year you visit Thailand, try to fit in at least one weekend in Bangkok so you can experience the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market . Many of the stalls are covered, so you can visit even on a rainy day. Tydeman also recommends visiting Bangkok's night markets, which offer "everything from original artwork and designer bags to kitschy souvenirs and secondhand books."

Chiang Mai 's weekend markets deserve a look as well. Every Saturday night, Wua Lai Road (just south of the Old City) closes to traffic and hosts silversmiths, wood carvers, clothing purveyors, sketch artists, and performing musicians. On Sundays, the scene essentially repeats itself along the length of Ratchadamnoen Road, which bustles with artists, food vendors, and massage stations.

There is no objectively bad time to visit Thailand. Each season has its benefits, but most people avoid traveling during the heaviest monsoons, which can disrupt public transportation and make exploring Thailand's stunning natural sites wildly uncomfortable (if not impossible). Forget renting a motorbike or riding ferries during the wet season. Though you're more likely to snag accommodations for cheap, you're liable to spend more time at your hotel than you bargained for, waiting for the downpours to pass. If you're averse to heavy rains and thick humidity on vacation, avoid planning a trip to Thailand in August and September.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

When Is The Best And Cheapest Time To Visit Thailand?

Published: August 16, 2020

Modified: December 27, 2023

by David Jefferson

• Budget Travel
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide

Are you drooling for some authentic sweet and tangy Pad Thai? Perhaps itching to shop until you drop at Chatuchak Market? There are many reasons why travelers are drawn to different cities in Thailand . From the beaches, mouth-watering dishes, ancient temples, to nightlife and great shopping, the Land of Smiles have a lot to offer. With the plan to visit Thailand, we can’t help but ask when it’s the best and cheapest time to visit this country. To help you make the most of your trip to Thailand, here’s how you save some bucks from overspending on expensive flight tickets, hotels, and more.

What To Expect From The Weather In Thailand?

Photo by Daniel Cox on Unsplash

What most tourists love about Thailand is the tropical climate that gives this Southeast Asian destination the ultimate beach vibe. The country has three distinct seasons: hot, rainy, and dry. Thailand is busiest during the dry season when temperatures are more favorable. This is from November and early April. Meanwhile, tourists flock the beaches during the hot season, with April and May being the hottest. If you prefer the monsoon season, hit Thailand from July to October, which you’ll most likely to expect rains or even floods. 

Although there are three seasons, expect an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius during the day. If you’re planning to escape the winter chills, Thailand’s tropical climate lets you enjoy sunshine throughout the year. 

Best Time To Visit Thailand According To Budget

The best time to travel not only means your preferred weather but also the season that won’t blow up your budget. Now, you might be wondering, what is the cheapest month to go to Thailand? Although the country is relatively a budget destination year-round, visiting during the low season can give you more savings. This means low rates on flights and lodging. Picking the off-peak season will allow you to spend on other interesting things, such as shopping and eating. 

The cheapest month to visit the country is March, but the rates are also low from May to October. During these months, you can expect heavy rains that can lead to flooding. Given that most tourists prefer to soak up the sun in Thailand, these months are considered low season. Book at least 3 weeks prior to your preferred departure to snag the lowest rates.  

Take note, though, that different areas in the country experience different low seasons. This means you can plan a budget Thailand trip by picking the right destination for your preferred time. For example, Ko Samui Island experiences its lowest and cheapest season in October, November, and December. This is different from the Phuket island , where the cheapest season runs during the late summer months.

Best Time To Visit Thailand According to Months Per Season

Photo by Andrzej Suwara on Unsplash

Thailand is home to many adventures that await every type of traveler. You can indulge in its delicious cuisine or explore ancient temples and amazing cities . You can also hit the beautiful beaches, and even go diving or snorkeling. For the shopaholics, Thailand is a paradise for your retail therapy needs. Popular shopping centers include Siam Discovery , MBK Center, and Century Mall. 

To make the most out of your vacation, find out the best time to visit Thailand depending on the months per season.

January: January is the peak month in Thailand. This month offers hot sunny days in the southern beaches, making it an ideal time for beach lovers. Meanwhile, the central and northern areas enjoy cooler temperatures during this month. Lodgings can be expensive when you head to Thailand this month.

February: Weather is still good during this month in most areas in Thailand. However, it’s also a crowded time because of the Chinese New Year. Aside from that, the Buddhist celebration and Thai national holiday of Makha Bucha often fall in February. 

March: Temperatures start to rise in March. It’s a great time for some diving and swimming. Some of the country’s festivals also happen during this time. These country-wide festivals include the three-day Pattaya International Music Festival, which is completely free and open to the public.

April: April is when you want to wear light clothes as it’s one of the hottest months in Thailand. When traveling during this time, bring a water bottle with you and don’t forget your sunscreen. It’s also worth paying for air-conditioned rooms for your stay, as fan rooms won’t work in the April heat. This hot month, however, features one of Thailand’s popular festivals — the Songkran. 

May: May is also one of the hottest months in Thailand. This should be a joy for those who come from very cold countries. This month also sees The World Durian Fruit Festival where you can enjoy games, parades, and sales fairs. 

Rainy Months

June: This month marks the start of the rainy season in Thailand. You should bring a handy umbrella and a light raincoat with you, so the rain won’t spoil your travels. If you’re visiting the north, the Phi Ta Khon Festival in Dan Sai district happens in June.

July: July is a wet month everywhere in Thailand. While it’s not a good time to enjoy the beach, you can explore the jungles and national parks during this time. 

August: You may want to plan indoor activities if you’re visiting Thailand in August as it’s the wettest month in the country. Be prepared by bringing slip-proof shoes, travel raincoats , umbrellas, and waterproof bags. Foodies would be happy to know that this month features the Hua Hin Food Festival.

September: Rains start to ease as September ushers in. This is the month to witness longboat races and enjoy Thailand’s street food.

Dry Seasons

October: Temperatures start to fall in October, making Central, Northern, and Northeastern Thailand mostly dry. With better weather, it’s a great time to visit many places in the country. October also features the Naga Fireballs of Nong Khai in the North, a colorful phenomenon that takes place on the Mekong River.  

November: The dry season is more evident during November in most parts of Thailand. This means moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine. If you’re planning to hit the beach during this time, head to the Andaman coast and Koh Chang and other islands in the eastern Gulf. Take note that the western Thai Gulf is still rainy at this time. November also sees one of the most celebrated festivals in Thailand — the Loy Krathong. 

December: December is the peak month in Thailand, not only for its great weather but also for its many holidays. This is an excellent time to hit the beach and go around cities. While Christmas isn’t big in the country, you can visit Sakhon Nakhon province, which is home to the biggest Christian population in Thailand. Here, you can see Christmas parades and witness a lot of holiday festivities. 

Best Time To Visit Thailand According To Location

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Many travelers will agree in a heartbeat that Bangkok is a shopping and food paradise. To fully enjoy this city, avoid September and October unless you’re fine with heavy rains and floods. Plan for a Bangkok getaway from November to February when rains have receded, leaving you with cool weather. This is a great time to go around the city, visit the temples, dine, and shop. Meanwhile, April to June are the hottest months, so plan accordingly. For the best shopping deals, mid-June to mid-August hosts the annual “Amazing Grand Sale” in Bangkok. 

Phuket , the third-largest island in Thailand, is one of the most famous beach destinations in the country. The calm blue waters, sandy beaches, and exciting nightlife are all part of the island’s appeal. Before you unroll that beach towel, take note that the best time to visit Phuket is from November to April. These months offer nice cool weather, perfect for the beach and some water activities. Meanwhile, May through October is the monsoon season. While hotels have excellent rates during this time, it can be risky to be out on the beach when the weather is stormy. If you want to visit during the off-peak season, a book from May through October. Humidity gets high during these months, causing room rates to drop.  

Home to outstanding and mostly untouched natural beauty, it’s no wonder why Krabi is Thailand’s hidden gem. To fully enjoy Krabi’s beaches, islands, and national parks, the best time to visit is from November to March. These months offer favorable temperatures, as during this time the monsoon season over the area just ended and summer yet to begin. It’s an ideal time for water sports such as wake-boarding, kite surfing, and snorkeling. Meanwhile, you may want to avoid this area in September and October, since these months bring the highest rainfalls. 

The famous Lantern Festival every November is among the many things to experience in Chiang Mai . With that, the peak months in this city are from December to January. If you want to dodge the crowd and high rates, visit in the months before and after the peak season. There are three seasons in Chiang Mai: summer (March to May), monsoon (June to October), and winter (November to February). Temperatures can rise up to 40°C in the summer, while monsoon season can have short bursts of heavy rains. Some festivals to catch in Chang Mai include Loi Krathong (usually in November), Songkran (mid-April), and the Flower Festival (first weekend of February).

When Not To Visit Thailand?

Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash

By now, you already know the best time to visit Thailand according to your budget or your preferred season. But what month should you avoid when going to Thailand? The south is not ideal to visit in October and November, and the Similan Islands are even closed between November and March. Meanwhile, don’t travel to Koh Chang and the Andaman coast in June and July. These destinations during these months experience heavy rains that can lead to flooding. 

Central Thailand, on the other hand, experiences brutal hot weather. Chiang Mai has a so-called burning season that occurs between February and April. 

Basically, you should avoid visiting Thailand during the wettest and hottest months of the country. Otherwise, some sunshine and rainfall shouldn’t stop you from having fun in Thailand. 

Enjoy The Best Of Thailand! 

While anytime during the year is generally okay to visit, the best time to visit Thailand is from December to March. These months offer moderate temperatures, perfect for many outdoor activities. Budget-wise, March will give you the lowest rates in accommodation and airfares. May to October is also a good time to enjoy low rates. Whether you want to enjoy the best season or cheapest stay in Thailand, either is possible with careful planning and research. 

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Thailand Amigo

The Best Source For Thailand Travel & Nightlife

The Best Time To Visit Thailand: A Full Analysis

Updated February 9, 2023 By

Many travelers and tourist wonder about the best time to visit Thailand . In this article I will address this very popular inquiry. Travelers should first set out their expectations and preferences, and then plan according to what best makes them happy.

Here are the important things to know about the different times of the year and when is the best time to visit Thailand.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Thailand

Consider that the low season in Thailand is when general costs will be at their lowest. Due to less tourists and lower demand, the markets and prices for things will be generally cheaper.

You can find great deals on food, drinks, hotels, and flights.

The low season starts from around April and goes until mid-late October. From my experience the lowest amount of tourists is around the month of September.

One amazing thing about Thailand , especially in the major cities is the amount of hotels. During the low season when tourist demand declines you will find some amazing discounts on good hotel rooms. There are so many hotels around and this causes prices to drop.

It is not uncommon to find discounts of 40%-60% or even more on hotels. Especially in places like Pattaya , and Patong (Phuket), that have a such a large quantity of hotels in a relatively small area.

Generally speaking, food and drink prices remain the same year round. However, deals can be had if you look around as businesses are competing against one another to attract customers. It is not uncommon to find deals on drinks, food items, and lowest prices in the markets.

Another point is that during this stage of the year it is a buyers market. The power of bargaining is slightly in favor of tourists. If you are like shopping for good deals then this might be the best time to visit Thailand .

Is The Busy Season The Best Time To Visit Thailand?

The most expensive months in Thailand start just as demand begins to increase. It starts around the end of October until April, and peaks around December and January.

It is good to keep in mind that even though it is the most expensive season, it is still cheaper than most other top tourist destinations in the world. Especially if you are coming from a relatively expensive market such as Europe, U.S.A, Canada, Etc.. You will still find it less expensive than your own country, especially for things like hotels, food, and drinks.

As the number of tourists begin to increase, so do the prices for hotels. Rooms get booked well ahead of time. Due to the frequency of the bookings, hotels charge the highest prices they can. During the busiest months many hotels will be near fully booked. The popular hotels will surely be charging premium prices for their rooms.

Do not expect big discounts. I highly recommend to start booking your rooms around 3-4 months ahead for the lower prices.

As previously said food & drinks are generally the same prices year round. However, due to the increase in demand, most shops and restaurants might not give the best deals.

The good news is that Thailand has such a huge quantity of restaurants, bars, and markets that even in high season there can great prices on food and drinks. It won’t be the same as low season though.

Another point is that the bargaining power returns back to the sellers in the market. There is much more tourists and travelers during the high season in Thailand .

The Best Weather In Thailand

First lets get something out of the way right now, Thailand is very hot and humid all year round. Certain times of the year are more tolerable with less humidity.

The winter season is by far the best weather. Most of the days will be clear sunny skies, with humidity at a comfortable level.

From December through to February you will experience the best possible weather. If weather is important to you, then this would be the best time to visit thailand weather wise.

The Rainy Season In Thailand

As the winter finishes and spring and summer begin, the weather starts to shift towards more humidity. This causes more rainfall.

So from April through to October it is considered the rainy season, however it peaks around August and September .

It is good to know that even in the rainy season you will still get sunny days. When it rains it will usually come down hard then finish fast. This does cause some minor flooding but is not that common.

It can rain heavy in Phuket, which is in the south (one of the best places to visit in Thailand).

In the months with heavy rainfall there is slight chance of monsoon where it rains for longer periods of time. There can be some moderate flooding, but usually these are not that common and tourists do not get that affected by it.

In my opinion, this not the best time to visit Thailand.

Cheapest Time To Visit Thailand

From experience there two periods where it is cheapest. From September to November there can be very good deals found.

Another good period to check for flights is from March to June.

Some budget minded travelers think that this is the best time to visit Thailand.

I have noticed during the summer holiday months of July and August tickets can be more expensive even though it is considered the off season. The reason for this is that a lot of families take summer vacations at that time and airfare tickers.

The same goes for the winter holiday months were ticket prices usually cost more.

Thailand Special Holidays

When talking about the best time to visit Thailand, you should also consider if you want to experience some of the interesting cultural holidays. Here are some popular ones to consider:

Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong is an enchanting holiday that takes place on the full moon of every 12th month in the Thai calendar, the month of November.

Tradition is that Thai’s make some beautiful decorated baskets called “Krathong” then they release them in the rivers and beaches.

They also make floating lanterns then launch them into the sky. I have experienced this holiday numerous times myself and it is a wonderful and enchanting experience which I recommend to all.

Songkran Festival – Thailand’s New Year

Songkran is the Thai new year festival and takes place on April 13th and continues for a few days after that.

Thai’s usually spend time with there families and loved ones during this time and there are celebrations going on all over.

One interesting tradition is that Thai’s drench each other with water and spray water guns all over the streets. It is a wild and fun time and most tourist have never experienced that.

Some tourists like it while other prefer not to get wet, so consider this as you are planning to visit Thailand.

Full Moon Party

If you like to party then there are full moon parties on the island of Koh Phangan (and others).

These parties are famous for a wild and memorable nights, with world class DJ’s, amazing sound systems and lighting shows.

Tourists from all over the world come to experience it.

Imagine partying under a beautiful full moon on one of the nicest islands in the world. This would be a great to visit Thailand.

Red Light Districts

In the busy months the red light districts are jam packed full or girls Most of the beer bars and go go bars are fully staffed.

In the low season there will be a bit less crowds, and some of the go go bars and beer bars will have less customers . Some of Thailand’s bar girls can take a few weeks off to go back home to see their families or take vacations.

Some people prefer the low season as they don’t like big crowds and prefer a more relaxed vibe. Others enjoy a busier vibe and the excitement of larger crowds. It is really a matter of personal choice.

So When is The Best Time to Visit Thailand?

Thailand can be fun at all times. Most tourists plan their vacation around the best Thailand weather seasons.

If I was to recommend for new travelers to visit Thailand , then I would suggest these two periods:

• November. During this month you can still find reasonably good prices on airfare and hotels. This could be the best month to travel to Thailand. The weather starts to get really good, and still isn’t the peak of the high season with the big crowds. A bonus is that you can experience the Loy Krathong Festival.
• February . After new years you can find good deals on flight tickets, and you can still get good prices on many hotels if you book in advance. The weather will be amazing with minimal humidity. Since this is towards the end of the peak season it is usually not as busy but still feels exciting. That could be the best time to visit thailand.

Further Reading on Thailand

• Making Money in Thailand
• Beers In Thailand
• Meet Women in Thailand
• Barfine Explained
• High Season
• The Best Bangkok Nightlife Areas

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Want to know when the worst time to visit Thailand is? Let’s talk about when NOT to visit!

As an experienced solo traveler who only packs summer clothes, I’ve chased good weather all around the globe and I’ve learned – sometimes the hard way – that timing is everything.

My journey has taken me through Thailand’s lush landscapes in winter, and I’ve weathered the rainy season living as a digital nomad in Chiang Mai.

I once passed out on a dirty bathroom floor in Thailand because I was too hot and dehydrated. I’ve savored the bustling street markets under a clear sky and endured torrential downpours while huddled in my cozy apartment.

Most travelers consider the worst times to visit Thailand to be:

• March to May when the heat becomes unbearable .
• May to October when it is the rainy season.

That being said, I was shocked to find that the rainy season in Thailand isn’t nearly as bad as I expected!

If you’re lucky enough to have the flexibility to choose when to visit Thailand, rather than have a set vacation time like many people, you’ll want to avoid the worst times to visit Thailand, which varies region by region. Let’s go!

Worst Time to Visit Thailand

• Best Time to Visit (Coolest): November to March
• Worst Time to Visit (Hottest): March to May
• Most Expensive Time to Visit Thailand: November to February
• Burning Season in Chiang Mai: February to April
• Rainiest Time to Visit: May to October
• When You’ll Find the Biggest Crowds: November to February

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From my experience, the overall worst time to visit Thailand is between March and May when temperatures start to soar and the humidity becomes unbearable. This is especially true for Bangkok and other parts of central and south Thailand.

If you’re not a fan of sweating through your clothes before lunchtime, then you will want to avoid this time of year.

April is the hottest month in Thailand , with temperatures reaching as high as 42°C (108°F). Temperatures tend to be a little cooler in Northern Thailand than in Central or South Thailand.

Many travelers also avoid May to October. The rainy season peaks in September and October, and the country is prone to heavy downpours and high humidity during this time. While the idea of constant rain might not sound appealing, it’s not all doom and gloom. I loved living in Chiang Mai during the rainy season! More on the rainy season in Thailand further down.

And some regions get rain from October to December, like Koh Samui, so always research the region you’re going to.

On the flip side, Winter (November-February) is generally dry and comfortable and is usually considered the best time to visit. One of Chiang Mai’s festivals takes place in February ! But there are downsides — prices will often be higher during this time and the tourist crowds can become overwhelming. So if you’re hoping for peace and quiet, it’s best to avoid this season or head to less crowded parts of the country.

👉 Book one of these private airport transfers for a stress-free arrival at any airport in Thailand!

Best Time to Visit Thailand for Great Weather

The optimal period to visit Thailand for great weather is November through March. November to March is the country’s dry season, characterized by a pleasant tropical climate with abundant sunshine, blue skies, and a refreshing breeze blowing in from the sea.

During this time, temperatures hover around a comfortable 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), perfect for spending all day in a bikini while exploring Thailand’s stunning beaches, vibrant cityscapes, and verdant jungles.

While the northern regions experience cooler nights, it’s the perfect time for a serene twilight stroll in the bustling night markets or a quiet, reflective moment at one of the many ancient temples.

It’s a time when Thailand truly blossoms, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

⭐️ My pick for Best Bangkok Food Tour is this Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk with a near-perfect 5-star Rating.

Most Expensive Time to Visit Thailand

The most expensive time to visit Thailand is during peak season, November through February.

That also happens to be when you’ll find the best weather in Thailand.

If you’re not on a tight budget and don’t mind the crowds in the airport and the most popular sites, then don’t worry about it! Thailand tends to be affordable year-round.

But if you’re like me and want to find better deals on flights and accommodations, and you like to have popular tourist sites to yourself, you will be better off going to Thailand during off-peak times, like during the rainy season.

🚙 I recommend using  Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal .

Busiest Time to Visit Thailand

The busiest time to visit Thailand is during the peak season, November through February. Noticing a trend here?

People chasing the best weather in Thailand will want to come during this time, which makes it the most crowded time to visit, too!

The more I travel, the more I realize I would rather put up with less ideal weather in order to avoid traveling with the biggest crowds. You might feel the same way.

If so, consider coming to Thailand during its low season, from April through October. The weather may not be ideal, but you’ll have a much better chance of avoiding crowds and getting great deals on flights and accommodations.

Plus, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy outside, and as long as you’re prepared for rain with a raincoat and backpack cover , you’ll be fine!

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Months to Avoid in Thailand

Hottest Months: April and May tend to be the hottest times in Thailand, and I tend to avoid those times when visiting. I can’t handle the heat!

If you don’t mind the heat, or if you plan to spend most of the time in your hotel’s rooftop pool or in the sea, then you can find some great deals during this time. Or head to cooler places in Thailand for a bit of respite!

Rainiest Months: If you want to avoid the rain, you’ll want to avoid May to October, especially September and October, the months that tend to get the most rain. And you should also know that it doesn’t rain all day every day during the rainy season!

Keep in mind that some parts of Thailand have different weather cycles, so if you’re planning to head to the islands, some of them might have different weather than the mainland. We’ll talk more about each region below.

Rainiest Time to Visit

The rainy season, or “Monsoon season” in Thailand is from May through October, with the most rain falling in September and October.

I lived in Thailand during the rainy season and was surprised to find that it didn’t rain every day. And when it did, the rain came in short bursts once or twice a day. There was one storm that came through, so it poured for a few days. Otherwise, the rain hardly impacted my time at all!

On the upside, the landscape during this period is incredibly lush and verdant. The rain breathes life into the scenery, turning everything a vibrant shade of green.

You’re also likely to find fewer crowds, lower prices, and more availability in accommodations, making it an attractive time for budget travelers.

On the downside, certain regions in Thailand may experience flooding, resulting in temporary road closures and complicating travel logistics. Some of the islands may also be less accessible during this time, with ferry services often being suspended due to rough sea conditions.

If you are coming to Thailand for a short visit and want the best weather possible, avoid the rainy season. But if you have a little flexibility and don’t mind getting a little wet, the rainy season might be just fine!

☔️ I love this packable raincoat because it’s lightweight and packs up tiny to carry around in your backpack easily. Plus, it’s cheap and comes in a lot of colors!

Worst time to Visit Thailand by City

Worst time to visit Phuket 

Phuket is hot all year round , but there are certain times when it might be better to hold off on your visit.

March to May is notorious for being the hottest time in Phuket, with temperatures soaring past 90°F (33°C) and the air feeling rather humid.

From May to October, Phuket experiences its rainy season. While the island doesn’t typically get bad monsoons, the seas are a bit rougher during this time, and the visibility for scuba divers is often impacted. When I went back to Phuket in the rainy season, I was unlucky and had several days of nonstop rain thanks to a storm passing through.

👉 Pro Tip: Taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a classic Thailand experience! I use this site to look up train and bus routes in Southeast Asia. Try to book at least a few days in advance because the trains do sell out, especially the lower beds. I recommend first or second-class sleeper cars that have air conditioning.

Worst time to visit Bangkok 

Visiting Bangkok between March and June, the hottest months in Bangkok will leave you drenched in sweat and wanting to take multiple showers a day. It’s not uncommon for the temperature to hit 100°F (38°C). Many locals head to cooler climates in Northern Thailand during this time.

May through October get quite a bit of rain, especially in August and September.

Worst time to visit Chiang Mai

The burning season in Chiang Mai (aka the smoky season) is the worst time of year to visit Chiang Mai as a traveler.

The smoky season in Chiang Mai takes place each year from February to April, and is when farmers in northern parts of Thailand set fire to their fields–a practice known as ‘slash-and-burn agriculture’.

This leads to unhealthy levels of air pollution throughout the region, making it difficult to breathe and impacting visibility. My friends who live in Chiang Mai year-round told me they spend the whole season inside hugging their air purifiers – and most leave Chiang Mai altogether!

👉 My top pick for a hotel in Chiang Mai is POR Thapae Gate because it’s in the perfect location and has a great breakfast! The staff here is amazing, and you’ll love having a relaxing place to come home to after a full day of exploring.

Worst time to visit Krabi

Krabi’s temperatures peak from February through April.

June through October is also a less-than-ideal time for beach activities in Krabi due to the region’s stormy season and increased chance of flooding due to heavy rains. And with that brings an increased amount of bugs and mosquitos.

Worst time to visit Koh Samui 

The islands in the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, etc.), unlike their counterparts in the Andaman Sea, dance to a different weather rhythm. March through September is the hot season, and May is typically the hottest month on these islands, where temperatures can climb to a sizzling 33°C (91°F).

October and November typically see the most rainy days.

Benefits of the Low Season in Thailand

Visiting Thailand during the off-peak season, which typically coincides with the hotter or rainier months, might not be everyone’s first choice.

Here are a few reasons why a low-season visit to Thailand could be a fantastic idea:

• Fewer Crowds : One of the biggest advantages of traveling during the low season is fewer tourists. This means you’ll have more space to explore popular sites like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Doi Suthep Temple in Chiang Mai , or the beaches in Phuket without jostling for room.
• Cheaper Prices : With fewer tourists around, prices for accommodation, flights, and even some tourist attractions often drop. You’ll be able to negotiate your scooter rental . This can make your trip more affordable and allow for some unexpected luxuries.
• Lush Scenery : The rainy season, known as the ‘green season’ in Thailand, brings about lush landscapes and full waterfalls, making it an excellent time for nature lovers and photographers to visit.
• Cooler Temperatures : While the rain might put a dampener on your sunbathing plans, the showers can bring relief from the heat, making exploring the cities and temples more comfortable. All you need is a raincoat!

These Are My Favorite Tours in Bangkok

🕍 Bangkok: Ayutthaya Historical Park Full Day Small Group Tour 👈

🕍 Bangkok: Night Tour of Temples, Markets, and Streetfood by Tuk Tuk 👈

🌆 Bangkok: Night Food Tour by Tuk Tuk 👈

🛶 Bangkok: Train Market & Floating Market 👈

🛶 Bangkok: Canal Tour On Longtail Boat 👈

👉 Explore All The Best Tours In Bangkok Here! 👈

Tips for Visiting Thailand During Hot and Rainy Season

• Pack Right : Raincoats or ponchos can be lifesavers. It usually doesn’t rain all day during the rainy season, so having waterproof gear allows you to continue exploring when showers hit. This backpack raincover has been a lifesaver, too!
• Flexible Itinerary : Weather can be unpredictable during the off-peak season. Plan a flexible itinerary so you can adjust your plans according to the weather.
• Indoor Activities : Have a list of indoor activities or attractions to visit during heavy downpours. Museums, art galleries, cooking classes , and spa treatments can make for great rainy-day activities.
• Cooler North : Remember, temperatures are often cooler in the north than in Bangkok and the islands. If you’re not a fan of the heat, consider visiting places like Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.
• Travel Insurance : Make sure your travel insurance covers weather-related disruptions. This can give you peace of mind in case of unexpected delays or cancellations.
• Stay Hydrated : Despite the rains, it can still get quite hot. Always carry a filtered water bottle to stay hydrated .
• Embrace the Rain : Sometimes, the best thing to do is embrace the weather. Enjoy the sound of rain from a cozy café, and watch the locals go about their day.
• Footwear : Opt for sturdy, waterproof footwear that can handle slippery surfaces. I wear my sports sandals everywhere and they dry fast!

👉 I LOVED my Thai cooking class so much (and it included a market tour!) – check out the best cooking classes in Thailand! 🧑‍🍳

Thailand Weather by Month

💧 Thirsty? Always have clean drinking water on hand and save money with this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.

Worst Month to Visit Thailand FAQs: 

When is the worst time of year to visit Thailand?

The worst time to visit Thailand is typically from July to October. This period is considered the country’s rainy season, with September being the peak month for rainfall. While some travelers find the rainy season charming and less crowded, it can disrupt outdoor activities and travel plans. March through May is the hottest time to visit.

When is the worst time to visit Chiang Mai?

The worst time to travel to Chiang Mai is during the “smoky season,” from late February to early April. During this time, farmers in the area burn their fields to prepare for the next planting season, resulting in a thick haze of smoke blanketing the city. This heavy pollution leads to poor visibility and poor air quality.

Should I avoid Thailand in October?

While October falls within Thailand’s rainy season, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should completely avoid visiting during this month. Weather conditions can vary significantly across the country, with some regions experiencing less rainfall than others. Additionally, the crowds are usually smaller, and the landscape is lush and green from the rains.

What month is typhoon season in Thailand?

Typhoon season in Thailand generally aligns with the rainy season, which runs from July through October. However, the peak of the typhoon season is usually from August to October. During this time, heavy rains and high winds can occur, particularly in the eastern and southern regions of the country. It’s always wise to check the weather forecast and make travel plans accordingly during this period.

How bad is monsoon season in Phuket?

Monsoon season in Phuket, which runs from May to October, can be quite intense with heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions. During this time, outdoor activities like scuba diving and boating may be disrupted. However, it’s also a time when the island is at its most green and beautiful, and the crowds are fewer.

Is it worth going to Thailand in September?

It can still be worth going to Thailand in September, despite being the rainiest time of year in Thailand. Showers are often brief and can even provide a refreshing break from the heat. September also marks the end of the peak tourist season, when you’ll find fewer crowds and more affordable rates for accommodations.

Book with Booking.com today to get epic deals on hotels, flights, rental cars & attractions!

Final Thoughts: Worst Time to Travel to Thailand

Most of us have set times when we can take a vacation, and that’s that. But some of us have more flexibility and can plan our trips around the best – and worst – time to visit.

Determining the “worst” time to visit Thailand truly depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience.

The peak tourist season between November and February offers ideal weather conditions but also brings crowds and higher prices. On the other hand, the off-peak season from March to October, characterized by hotter temperatures and more rainfall, provides opportunities for quieter exploration, lower prices, and lush landscapes, albeit with a chance of unpredictable weather.

While the heat and rain may be a deterrent for some, remember that it usually doesn’t rain all day during the rainy season, and with the right gear, like a poncho or raincoat, you’ll be just fine.

The temperatures are often cooler in the north, making cities like Chiang Mai a pleasant escape from the heat of Bangkok and the islands.

Curious about when is the best time to visit Chiang Mai, my favorite city in Thailand?

Check out my detailed guide on the best time to visit , to help plan your perfect trip to this charming northern city.

No matter when you choose to visit, Thailand’s rich culture, friendly locals, and breathtaking landscapes are sure to provide an unforgettable journey. Happy travels!

Read More About Thailand:

• Is There Uber in Thailand? Ultimate Ride-Sharing Guide
• Legal Drinking Age in Thailand: A Backpacker’s Guide
• Are Taxis Safe in Thailand? 21 Tips from a Local
• Is Thailand in Indonesia? + 12 Thailand Interesting Facts
• Where is the Coldest Place in Thailand?
• Does It Snow in Thailand?
• Thailand Vs Vietnam: The Ultimate Southeast Asia Face-Off
• How Long Does it Take to Get to Thailand?
• Can I Wear a Bikini in Thailand?
• 37 Pros and Cons of Living in Chiang Mai (Expat Guide)
• Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? + 19 Pros and Cons
• 29 Delicious Thai Fruits You Must Try (And How to Eat Them)
• 123 Thailand Captions to Spice Up Your Travel Posts
• Best Alternatives to Uber in Bangkok: Getting Around
• Do You Need a Motorcycle License in Thailand? 
• 15 Must-Know Tips for Renting a Scooter in Thailand

📝 Thailand Travel Planning Guide 🇹🇭🌟

Before you embark on your unforgettable journey to Thailand here are the essential tips every traveler should know:

🚑  Should I buy travel insurance for Thailand?

✅ 100% YES!  — My #1 Safety Tip for all travelers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend and use SafetyWing  – it’s cheap and comprehensive.

💧 Can you drink the water in Thailand?

🚱 No  — It’s recommended to drink filtered or bottled water in Thailand (but using tap water to brush your teeth is usually fine). I recommend this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Thailand?

Yes  —  Renting a car in Thailand is one of the best ways to see the countryside! I recommend  Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local companies, so you get the best rates.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Thailand accommodations?

My go-to for Thailand hotels is  Booking.com . For hostels, I use  HostelWorld . Or get free accommodations with  Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to book Thailand flights?

For finding cheap Thailand flights, I recommend CheapOAir .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Thailand?

🙅🏻‍♀️ Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need visas for stays of up to 30 days in Thailand.

💰 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: The currency here is the Thai baht, and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash. I always withdraw from ATMs to get the best rates (select “no” when it asks you if you accept the conversion rate).

🚕 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Getting around Thailand is a breeze! Grab is safe and cheap in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Bangkok has a modern metro. It’s easy to use local transport such as songthaews , too.

📶 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: Thailand has reliable internet connectivity. SIM cards are easy to find and cheap.

Cat is a 35-year-old American solo female traveler on a career break, traveling the world full-time since 2021. She loves meeting new people, considers herself to be a bit of a foodie, and reads a lot.

Is Thailand Expensive To Visit In 2024?

Wondering whether Thailand is expensive?

Then you’ve come to the right place as I’ve visited many places in Thailand and as a full-time traveller, I have a good judge of whether or not somewhere is expensive.

Thailand is one of the most popular countries to visit in Southeast Asia, a region which is notoriously cheap. But does the increased popularity make Thailand expensive?

To help answer this question and know how much to budget your trip, I’ve written a really comprehensive guide covering all aspects of Thailand and how much things cost.

So without further ado, let’s answer the question of “Is Thailand expensive?”

Is Thailand Expensive?

To summarise my answer to the question, no Thailand isn’t expensive.

In fact, Thailand is ranked as the 94th most expensive country to live in in the world, so it’s not expensive at all.

There’s a reason that backpacking Thailand is so popular and that’s because aside from the incredible things to do the country offers, it’s super easy to visit on a budget.

You can do so many amazing things in Thailand without spending a fortune. For example, I stayed in Chiang Mai for a week in the north of Thailand and I spent less than $200.

This included: 7 nights in a hostel, 2 street food meals a day, a 2-day jungle trek, an elephant safari, and a day trip to Chiang Rai. There are lots of reasons why Chiang Mai is worth visiting , but the low price is definitely one of them!

In Bangkok, I spent $114 across 4 days, so it wasn’t expensive either in my opinion. Although I am a budget traveller, so my budgets don’t apply to everyone.

You can easily get by in Thailand for as little as $10 a day , but you can easily spend a fortune too if you aren’t careful.

I would say the average traveller in Thailand spends $50 a day, which is still really affordable compared to other destinations around the world.

Prices in Thailand also vary depending on where you are. The islands are naturally more expensive than the mainland for example, especially popular touristy places like Phuket ( pronounced poo-ket ).

You should also be careful of scams in Thailand such as taxi drivers not using the meter, or people trying to overcharge you for street food.

But for the most part, Thailand is not expensive at all to visit and you can have the trip of a lifetime for a relatively low cost.

Is Thailand Cheap?

Yes, T hailand is very cheap to visit.

It’s always regarded as one of the cheapest countries in the world , and one of the best countries for backpacking .

My favourite thing about visiting Thailand is that I can live there for 2 months and spend less than I would while living at home in the UK for 2 months – and that includes doing so many amazing things.

Even things like an eSIM in Thailand are cheaper than my phone bill at home!

To give you an idea of just how cheap Thailand is, you can get a meal like this (Pad Thai) from street food vendors for as low as 40 THB ($1.12).

Or you can take a 10-hour bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai for only $17. That’s so cheap if you ask me!

This is why I say it’s worth visiting Thailand even if the flight is expensive – because things are cheap once you get out here.

Thailand’s affordability, combined with the richness of culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and the warmth of its people, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to stretch your dollars further.

It’s one of my favourite countries in the whole world, and I can’t encourage you enough to visit. You won’t regret it, I promise!

Why Is Thailand So Cheap?

Now that we know that Thailand isn’t expensive, and it’s actually very cheap, you might be wondering why.

There are quite a few reasons why Thailand is so cheap. The biggest and most obvious one is that there is a lower cost of living in the country, but here are some more reasons why Thailand is cheap.

• Lower Cost of Living : Thailand’s overall cost of living is significantly lower than that of many Western countries. This is due to various factors, including lower labour costs and a domestic economy that is geared towards a lower cost structure. This translates directly into cheaper services and goods for visitors.
• Agricultural Abundance : Thailand is a major producer of rice, fruits, and vegetables, contributing to the abundance and low cost of fresh food. This agricultural wealth means that food, one of the primary expenses for travellers, remains affordable whether you’re eating street food or dining in local restaurants.
• Government Policies : The Thai government has implemented policies aimed at boosting tourism, recognizing it as a key pillar of the country’s economy. Reduced taxes on tourism-related businesses and incentives for foreign visitors help keep travel and accommodation costs down.
• Public Transportation Infrastructure : The country’s investment in public transportation, including an extensive network of buses, trains, and low-cost domestic flights, makes travelling affordable and accessible. This infrastructure supports budget travel by providing cheaper alternatives to car rentals or private taxis.
• Cultural Emphasis on Value : Thai culture places a high value on hospitality and making visitors feel welcome. This cultural emphasis often translates into more value for your money, as businesses go the extra mile to provide excellent service at no extra cost.
• Exchange Rates : For many visitors, particularly those from countries with strong currencies, the exchange rate is favourable when converting to Thai Baht. This favourable exchange rate increases purchasing power, making it cheaper to travel, eat, and stay in Thailand compared to their home countries.

Of course, there are many more reasons than this, and I’m by no means an economic expert, but hopefully, they give you an idea of why Thailand is cheap.

Another thing I love about Thailand is that prices don’t change very much. Things don’t fluctuate as much and there isn’t really general inflation in Thailand the way there is in other countries.

Don’t get me wrong, Thailand is more expensive now than it was a decade ago, but only marginally. Compared to the West which is a lot more expensive.

If you see a menu for a restaurant on Google Maps for example and it was uploaded 4 years ago, in Europe the prices will probably have gone up €3-5 ($3.23-5.38). In Thailand, maybe 30 Baht ($0.84) or so.

How Much Is Accommodation In Thailand?

Accommodation in Thailand is really cheap.

If you’re travelling on a budget the way I do, you can easily get hostels for as low as $3 a night , even when you’re backpacking Bangkok .

But for most people, you’ll probably want to stay in a hotel. A good hotel will cost you a fraction of what it will in Europe and North America.

You can find lots of good hotels for less than $50 a night. Naturally, there are lots of hotels which will charge more than this but unless you want a 5-star luxury resort, there’s no real reason to pay more than this per night.

Vietnam is even cheaper – I was getting full apartments for less than $10 a night, it’s incredibly cheap. But Thailand is still very affordable in terms of accommodation.

How Much Are Tourist Attractions In Thailand?

In terms of tourist attractions in Thailand, it depends on what the attraction is and where it is.

Most things will be very cheap and won’t cost you too much.

For example, the temples in Bangkok aren’t very expensive. Wat Arun, for example, costs 200 Baht for a ticket. That’s $5.61, so it’s pretty affordable compared to how much it would cost to visit an attraction in other countries.

On the other hand, some things are more expensive, particularly on the islands. A day trip from Krabi to the Phi Phi Islands would cost around $25. But again, compared to the West, it’s still very cheap.

There are opportunities to splash out in Thailand if you so desire, such as by getting your PADI on Koh Tao. I recommend checking out Roctopus .

If you’re on a budget, there is an abundance of free things and cheap things to do in Thailand. For example, simply relaxing by the beach on one of the islands is free.

So for the most part, tourist attractions in Thailand are not expensive, but you can definitely find things which are on the pricey side if you so desire.

How Much Is Food In Thailand?

Food in Thailand is also very cheap. In fact, it’s possibly the cheapest aspect of travelling in Thailand.

When you visit the country, I recommend eating street food. Contrary to popular belief, it is safe to eat and will not give you food poisoning (99% of the time).

After all, you’re watching them cook it right in front of you.

Street food is very cheap, but it’s also more authentic which means it usually tastes better too. When I have eaten in restaurants in Thailand, I’ve felt disappointed and overcharged.

I’ve never spent more than $2-3 on street food. It’s so easy to find a really good meal for a low price.

One of my favourite dishes I had in Chiang Mai was a simple rice, chicken and vegetable dish and it only cost 40 THB ($1.12). It’s crazy how cheap it is in the South Gate Market in Chiang Mai , but how good the food is too!

It’s really easy to find street food too; you rarely have to go looking for it. I recommend getting food from a stall where you see locals eating.

Most locals in Thailand will eat street food rather than cook their own meals each night because it works out cheaper.

Is the food in Thailand expensive? Far from it, it’s the cheapest part about visiting Thailand.

How Much Is Transport In Thailand?

I’ll start by saying I don’t recommend getting public transport within cities in Thailand, except from the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok.

The buses are incredibly difficult to navigate, and they’re usually unreliable, and often late. Plus they’re very warm and uncomfortable.

But to answer the question of whether it’s expensive or not, it’s very cheap.

To get between destinations in Thailand, I recommend booking through 12Go . It finds the best prices for you, which are always low.

As a random example, the bus from Bangkok to Krabi is and takes, so it’s really cheap.

Note that there is no Uber in Thailand . The Southeast Asian equivalent is Grab , which is more or less the same but much cheaper. I don’t recommend taking taxis without agreeing on the price in advance as there are often scammers claiming the meter is broken.

To get around Thailand, it’s very affordable and there are always lots of options going everywhere across Thailand.

Below are some common questions related to whether Thailand is expensive or not along with my expert answers to each question.

Yes, Thailand is very cheap for Americans. Prices in Thailand are much lower than in the US. You can get by in Thailand for as low as $10 a day if you are on a shoestring budget, but even if you are visiting with a large budget, you will find it very cheap.

It depends on where you are from, but for most tourists, Thailand is not expensive. You can get really good accommodation for cheap prices, and most activities aren’t that expensive. Plus street food is really affordable and provides authentic and tasty food.

It depends on what type of trip you want to have. If you are backpacking, you can get by on as low as $10 a day. If you want an average-budget trip, $40-50 a day is more than enough to have an amazing trip in Thailand.

A meal in Thailand can cost as low as $1 from street food vendors. Restaurants always charge a little more, usually up to $10 or so. Prices are much lower than in Europe and the US though.

A bottle of beer in Thailand can be bought in 7-Eleven stores for only 40 Baht. In bars, prices start around 80 Baht. A pint of draft beer in Bangkok usually costs around 75 Baht.

Is Thailand Expensive: Final Thoughts

And there you have it, an in-depth answer to “Is Thailand expensive?”

Thailand is the opposite of expensive, it’s very cheap to visit.

It still amazes me how many once-in-a-lifetime things you can do in Thailand for such low prices.

You’re guaranteed to love your time in Thailand, but make sure you know how to spend your money there. I recommend using Revolut in Thailand .

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

Is Thailand expensive?

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 13.12.2023

Idyllic islands, spectacular temples, and opportunities for epic outdoor adventures — it’s clear why Thailand figures high on many travellers’ wish-lists. Chances are, if you’re considering visiting Thailand, a crucial question is at the forefront of your mind. Namely: is Thailand expensive? So, to answer that crucial question, here’s a rundown of the costs of travelling in Thailand. From accommodation, food, transport and activities, to the price of tours and organised trips, this will serve you well when working out your Thailand travel budget. 

Is travelling in Thailand expensive?

Average cost for organised travel in thailand, cost of travelling independently in thailand, tailor-made travel vs independent travel, tips for budget travel in thailand, tailor-made travel itineraries for thailand, created by local experts.

5 days  / from 1180 USD

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.

12 days  / from 2750 USD

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.

12 days  / from 2450 USD

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.

In a word, no. Travelling in Thailand doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, it’s one of the most budget-friendly destinations. 

From low-cost accommodation options and inexpensive street food, visitors to Thailand can easily plan an affordable trip. That’s good news for those of us whose Thailand travel budget is on the small side.

At the same time, Thailand isn’t short of higher-end places to stay, fine dining restaurants, and immersive activities you could choose to splash out on.

In essence, when planning your Thailand travel budget — one of our top Thailand travel tips —  you need to compare the costs of accommodation, food, transport and activities.

So, to come back to our original question — is Thailand expensive? — the simple answer is: no. It really doesn’t have to be. Read on for a breakdown of costs.

Mae Hong Son, Thailand © Shutterstock

Cost of accommodation

In general, one of the biggest costs of travelling is accommodation. When figuring out your Thailand travel budget, keep in mind that a room in a mid-range guesthouse will set you back around £20–50 ($25 to $65) a night.

Looking to bed down for less? Budget options in dorms and hostels can be bagged for £5-10 ($6 - $12) a night.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking to splash out, expect to pay £100-200 per night for a luxury hotel or villa.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Read up on accommodation in Thailand .

Cost of food

Still wondering “is Thailand expensive”? When it comes to the cost of food, we have plenty of good news.

Tasty, filling street food can be bought for just £1-2 ($1,50 - $3) a dish, while eating out in mid-range restaurants will see you pay £3-5 ($4 - $7) per dish.

When you fancy dining in more upmarket style, expect to pay £5-20 ($7 - $20) a dish.

Love your grub? Find out more about eating and drinking in Thailand .

Is Thailand expensive? Not if you opt to eat scrummy street food! © Room98/ Shutterstock

Cost of transportation

Planning to get off the beaten track? You can take local buses from just 50p, with motorbike rental costing £5-10 ($6 - $12) a day.

To hire your own car, expect to pay £20 ($24) a day. If you want a private driver for a bespoke journey, you’re looking at a cost of around £50 ($60) a day.

For more on transportation, read our guide to getting around Thailand .

On a budget? Use public transport. Khao San road, Bangkok, Thailand © Shutterstock

Cost of activities

When it comes to the cost of travelling in Thailand, many top activities can be done for absolutely nothing. 

For example, lots of hikes can be done without the services of a guide, and it’ll cost you nothing to visit some of the country’s best beaches .

To travel further afield in the company of a guide, you’re looking at paying anywhere from £20-200 ($24 - $240) per trip. The price will obviously depend on the distance you’re travelling, and the nature of the activity.

Happily for water babies on a budget, Thailand remains one of the cheapest — and best — places to dive. For example, shore dives start from £35 ($43), while a full open water dive certification course costs in the region of £230 ($285).

On the subject on activities, check out the best things to do in Thailand .

Sometimes the best things in life are free, like blissing out on Ao Nuan beach, Thailand © Muzhik/Shutterstock 

Average cost per day for travelling in Thailand

Backpackers on a shoestring could stay in a dorm, eat street food and travel on public transport for around £20-30 a day — as long as you keep partying to a minimum.

Staying in relative shoestring territory, if you’d prefer a private room, fancy socialising a bit more, and want to take a few tours, budget for £35-50 ($25 - $37)a day.

Meanwhile, mid-range visitors staying in tourist-oriented accommodation should plan to spend £50-80 ($62 - $100).

Looking for luxury? Your Thailand travel budget will be anything from £150-300, ($185 - $370) depending on how much cash you have to splash. 

Yao Noi, Phuket, Thailand © Shutterstock

Though Thailand has a reputation for attracting independent travellers (more on that below), it’s also well-served by operators that specialise in organised travel.

This will be of particular interest to families, visitors who aren’t sure how to begin planning their trip, and those who are looking to immerse themselves in their chosen destination, hassle-free.

Going a step further, tailor-made travel to Thailand enables you to customise your trip to your exact needs, taking into account the places you most want to visit, and your interests.

For example, our customisable Thailand Exploration trip will take you from the jungles of Khao Sok National Park to Krabi’s captivating beaches.

Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park, Thailand © Shutterstock

Travelling with kids? Our Family Time in Thailand trip will see you and your loved ones explore Bangkok and encounter elephants in the Chiang Mai region before heading to the beautiful Khao Lak beach resort.

As for the costs, you’re looking at 3-5-day trips costing from $600 USD, through to 10+ night experiences from $1200 USD.

For this, you’ll enjoy a number of benefits — local expertise, the convenience of having someone else take care of booking accommodation and activities, and a totally personalised experience. Sounds pretty priceless. 

Like the sound of organised travel in Thailand? Take inspiration from our customisable Thailand itineraries , and talk to our  local experts .

Chiang Mai's Elephant Nature Park, Thailand © Shutterstock

When it comes to the cost of travelling in Thailand, on balance, travelling independently comes out cheaper. 

By independent travel, we mean finding your own way around the country as opposed to rocking up to join a pre-booked, pre-organised trip. It also means booking your own accommodation. 

For many travellers, this offers longed-for freedom, flexibility, and a more budget-friendly experience. For example, as highlighted above, if you stick to dorm accommodation, street food and public transport you could live on £30 ($38) a day.

Concerned about the cost of travelling in Thailand? Research travelling independently © Shutterstock

That said, travelling independently in Thailand comes with non-financial costs. You’ll need to spend time planning your route, and researching all the costs you’ll incur along the way. 

In practical terms, this means working out the cost of getting around, and what you’ll pay for accommodation in every stop. 

You’d also do well to earmark (and cost) activities and excursions you’ll want to take in each area you plan to visit. 

While travelling independently in Thailand is cheaper than organised travel, bear in mind that it can come with unexpected costs, no matter how well you think you’ve budgeted. 

Interested in travelling independently in Thailand? Read our tips for backpacking Thailand , and how to make the most of going solo in Thailand .

Phuket, Thailand © Shutterstock

While it is often cheaper to travel independently in Thailand, with tailor-made travel you know exactly what you’re paying for.

In contrast, while you can, of course, plan your Thailand travel budget for independent trips, you will want to factor in contingency cash. 

And the reasons? If you’re planning to wing it and find places to stay while on the road, you could face unexpected higher accommodation costs. And, in all likelihood, there’ll be days when you’ll want to skip street food for a local restaurant, or go on a bucket-list excursion.

What’s more, tailor-made travel comes with invaluable benefits, such as having a local expert plan and book your trip, offering local insights, and taking the stress out of travel every step of the way.

Koh Kood Thailand, Beach © Sarutipong/Shutterstock

Consider visiting in low or shoulder season

If you plan when to go to Thailand wisely, you'll save a stack on the cost of flights and accommodation. For example, consider visiting in the July—September low season.

Research homestay and hostel accommodation

Hostels and homestays are drastically cheaper than hotels and resorts. What's more, they offer opportunities for more immersive, social experiences.

Avoid internal flights and tourist minivans

If you're on a budget, you'll be much better off using local buses and trains, or hiring a bike.

Eat at street stalls and night markets

One of the easiest ways to spend less in Thailand is to buy food from hawker carts and stalls. Some of the best bargains can be had at transport hubs and night markets.

Make the most of national parks

Thailand's national parks usually have low entry fees, and pleasingly affordable accommodation costs for stays in tents and bungalows.

Make the most of Thailand’s more minor monasteries

While the likes of Bangkok's Wat Pho come with pretty pricey entrance fees, lesser-known monasteries are often free to enter, and free from fellow tourists.

Street food, Khao San Road, Bangkok, Thailand © Shutterstock

In summary, the cost of travelling in Thailand can be pretty darn low — if you plan your Thailand travel budget wisely. 

This means making choices about where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around according to your budget. It also means deciding which activities you really, really want to do, and can afford.

If you’re not restricted by a rock-bottom budget, booking an organised, tailor-made trip is well worth considering. 

Going tailor-made takes the hassle out of planning and booking. It also gives you the freedom to customise your trip with support from a local expert who really knows their stuff.

Been wowed by the benefits of booking a tailor-made trip? Browse our customisable  Thailand itineraries for inspiration, and contact our  local experts .

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Travel advice for Thailand

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

• Getting around Thailand: Transportation Tips
• Khao Sok National Park
• Eating and drinking in Thailand
• How to get to Thailand
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When Is the Best Time to Visit Thailand? Avoid This Time for 2024?

Thailand is a tropical paradise visited by millions of people every year. The warm climate makes it the perfect spot for water activities, relaxing on the beach, or exploring cultural and natural wonders.

Thailand Has Three Seasons: Cool, Hot & Wet

There's no winter in Thailand, but the country does have three distinct seasons. Each season offers different experiences for travelers. Understanding the differences will help you find the best time to go.

Cool Season: November to February This is when temperature and humidity are at their lowest, making it pleasant to be outside. It is the peak season for tourists and a great time to experience Thai festivals.

Hot Season: March to June Peak temperatures during this time can reach 40℃. There are fewer tourists, but the heat can be challenging.

Wet Season: July to October The monsoon season sees some heavy rainfall and high humidity. The rains can interfere with outdoor activities, but the landscape is at its most lush and green.

The Best Time for Visiting Thailand Is the Cool Season: from Nov to Feb

The cool season from November to February is widely considered the best time to visit Thailand . With mild temperatures ranging between 20℃ to 30℃, it is the ideal time to explore the beautiful landscapes.

Combined with the low humidity, spending time outdoors on the beach or visiting temples and cultural sites is comfortable and enjoyable. You can fully immerse yourself in where you travel in Thailand with various attractions and charming experiences. 

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The hot season of thailand is from mar to jun: the cheapest time to visit.

If you don't mind the heat or are looking for a budget travel option , the hot season can be a good option for travel. Lasting from March to June, the hot season brings the highest temperatures and driest weather.

The central and northern areas can see highs above 40℃, but that also means there are fewer tourists. Outside of the peak travel season, popular attractions are less crowded, and it's possible to find deals on accommodations and tours.

The intense heat can make outdoor activities challenging. If you plan to be outside in Thailand during the hot season, stick to the shade and drink plenty of water.

Thailand also has many options for staying out of the heat. The mountainous region in north Thailand has many beautiful temples and doesn't get as hot as some other areas. You can escape the worst of the heat at temples such Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sitting on a mountain overlooking Chaing Mai. Or in the cool mountainous landscapes of Pai where you’ll find Wat Phra That Mae Yen.

Exploring markets or enjoying a beach tour in Thailand  in the mornings or evenings will help to avoid the worst of the heat, and air-conditioned museums are a great way to learn about Thailand's history and culture while staying cool.

The Rainy Season of Thailand Is: from Jul to Oct, also the Cheapest Time to Visit

At first glance, the rainy season in Thailand may not seem like a good time to visit. Much of the country see increased rainfall and high humidity from July to October.

The southwestern monsoon can bring heavy downpours and even flooding. However, in many areas, it doesn't rain the entire day. In the western coastal areas of Phuket, and Ao Nang and Railay Beach of Krabi, showers often fall during the afternoon or evening, with sunny parts the rest of the day. Bangkok and the central and northern regions usually experience intermittent heavy showers, mostly in late afternoon and evening. Mornings, and between rainfalls brings sunny or overcast weather.

The advantage of traveling to Thailand in the rainy season is fewer tourists. Hotels tend to be cheaper, and attractions are less crowded. The rains also transform the landscape into vibrant colors as the natural scenery comes alive. If you're a nature lover who is looking for great deals, it's worth considering this season.

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The coolest month in thailand is nov, at about 26 degrees centigrade.

One of the most comfortable times to visit Thailand is in November. During this month, Thailand sees some of its coolest temperatures, with an average of around 26℃ . This is the perfect temperature for taking part in outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving or jungle trekking, and exploring places like the ancient ruins at Ayutthaya Historical Park near Bangkok or Chiang Mai Old City and temples.

November also comes after the rainy season, so the landscape remains full of lush greenery and vibrant foliage. With clear skies and drier conditions, November is perfect for spending time outdoors and getting excellent photographs of your trip.

The Hottest Months in Thailand Are Apr and May: Try to Avoid

It is best to avoid traveling to Thailand in April and May. During this time, temperatures soar, often reaching over 40℃ . The central and northern parts of the country, in particular, can be extremely hot with high humidity.

Spending time outdoors in that weather can be uncomfortable, and travelers need to take precautions to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses. To stay safe in the heat, travelers are advised to avoid going outside during the hottest parts of the day and to try and stick to air-conditioned environments whenever possible.

For Enjoying the Thailand Traditional Activities: Visit in Nov and April

The best times to experience Thai culture and traditional activities are in November and April. The Loy Krathong festival is held in November on the evening of the full moon.

To celebrate, people gather near rivers and lakes to float krathongs, beautifully decorated lotus-shaped baskets. It creates a magical sight with thousands of krathongs with flickering candles floating out over the water.

It is celebrated nationwide, but Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya are particularly popular places to experience it.

Thai New Year , called Songkran, is celebrated between April 13th and 15th. It is a fun festival celebrated with water fights that symbolize a new beginning. While the temperature is exceptionally high in April, the festival is lively, and the water fights are a great break from the heat. Besides the water activities, visitors can also enjoy traditional Thai food and participate in religious ceremonies.

The Monthly Climate Features of Thailand

January Cool and dry weather across the country, with average highs around 30℃ in the central areas. Ideal weather for outdoor activities, relaxing on the beach, and exploring cultural sites.

February Dry and cool weather continues with mild temperatures across the country—great weather for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and festivals.

March The beginning of the transition to the hot season. Temperatures are rising to hit the mid to high 30℃. Some outdoor activities start to get less comfortable in the heat.

April It is the peak of the hot season, with temperatures rising about 40℃ in some regions. Avoiding too much time outdoors from late morning to afternoon is best.

May The weather is hot and increasingly humid. Temperatures are similar to April's, with added high humidity. Best to choose indoor activities.

June The rainy season is beginning with some drop in temperatures. Outdoor activities are okay, but they might be interrupted by rain.

July The weather is warm but humid. Planning for outdoor activities should allow for frequent rainfall.

August Rainy season with warm temperatures and high humidity. Flooding is possible in some regions, such as Bangkok, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya.

September The rainy season continues. Hot and humid weather.

October Rainfall begins to decrease toward the end of the month. Temperatures remain warm.

November It's an excellent time for tours with cool and dry weather throughout the month. Skies are usually clear, and temperatures are between 25℃ to 30℃—perfect conditions for experiencing the outdoors or taking part in the Loy Krathong festival.

12 Days Highlights of Thailand Tour Package

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the different seasons in Thailand before planning your tour there. The comfortable weather of the cool, dry season is the choice for many tourists, but the other seasons offer some advantages.

Great deals are available in the rainy and hot seasons, and Thai New Year, during the heat of April, is an exciting cultural experience. Let us know what kind of tour you are looking for, and we'll get you started planning your dream holiday right away.

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• Best Time To Visit Thailand - Plan Your Perfect Thai Escape!

Best Time to Visit Thailand - Plan Your Perfect Thai Escape!

Thailand is a country in southern Asia that is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear water, and lush vegetation. For anyone considering holidaying in Thailand, it is important to know a little about the climate and weather before booking. The climate in Thailand is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. However, there are three distinct seasons: the peak season (November to March), the shoulder season (April to June), and the low season (July to October). The average temperature throughout the year is between 25°C and 32°C, though it can get quite humid at times. The best time to visit Thailand is during the peak season from November to March. But if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder or low season. Regardless of the time you choose to visit, you are sure to enjoy the best holiday experience in Thailand with our exclusive Thailand trip packages .

Seasons in Thailand

Peak season (November to March)

The peak season is from November to early December , and again from late  until late March. The peak season is particularly attractive to visitors due to its pleasant temperatures and abundance of activities, making it the best time to visit Thailand from India. During the peak months, visitors can benefit from plenty of sunshine and low levels of rainfall. Although this time of year sees slight rain showers, these usually only last for a few hours.  Keep in mind that during peak season, Thailand can be quite crowded due to its popularity as a tourist destination. Also, prices tend to be higher during peak season, but you will also find more options as far as tourist attractions and restaurants go. So if you are planning the best time for a Thailand trip , then peak season is the best time to visit.

Places to visit in Thailand during the peak season

From November to March, Thailand is at its peak season, as temperatures remain mild and the country is filled with beautiful blooms, making it the best time to go to Thailand on holiday. During this period, there are numerous places to explore, such as the bustling capital city of Bangkok, the tropical beaches of the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, and the ancient city of Chiang Mai. This season is the perfect time to visit for an ideal beach getaway. You can visit the exotic, sail to the hidden islands of Krabi, or take a trip to Koh Phangan. All these places are best suited to visit in peak season and you will surely enjoy the best tropical vacation.

Shoulder season (April to June)

The shoulder season is from early April to June. During shoulder season, the temperatures can rise slightly but remain comfortable. The climate during this season is mostly tropical, and the weather is hot with an average temperature of 28 to 32 degrees Celsius. During this time, temperatures are milder and the crowds of tourists are less intense, making it the best time to go to Thailand. This time of the year makes it the ideal time to explore Thailand’s stunning islands, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. This off-peak season offers travellers the chance to explore a destination without the crowds and high prices associated with peak season. If you want to plan a budget trip and still want to enjoy the pleasant climate, shoulder season is the best time of year to go to Thailand.

Places to visit in Thailand during the shoulder season

Shoulder season in Thailand remains popular with tourists who are keen to make the most of Thailand's attractions without having to deal with the crowds that flock during peak season. It is the best time to travel to Thailand, and during this time, you can visit the islands of Phuket , Krabi , and Similian islands. You can also visit the capital of Bangkok, where travellers can explore its many temples, such as Wat Pho , the Grand Palace, and Wat Arun , or take a visit to the ancient city of Ayothaya. Visitors can explore the various bustling streets and markets, take in magnificent temples, and experience the vibrant nightlife. 

Low season (July to October)

Thailand is a beautiful destination with a wide range of activities, attractions, and experiences to offer. The low season is from July to October when the temperature is mostly humid with frequent rainfall. During this time, there tends to be more rainfall, resulting in higher humidity levels than usual. This makes it less desirable for beach bound travellers, but if you are looking for a bargain holiday, this could be the best time of year to travel to Thailand as prices tend to be lower during this period. The best part is travellers can find great deals and discounts on flights, hotels, and tours. Although the weather may be a bit unpredictable, there are still plenty of places to explore and enjoy in Thailand during this time.

Places to visit in Thailand during the low season

Although the peak season offers the most desirable weather, the low season is the best time for a Thailand tour as it offers a quieter and less expensive experience. A great place to start is Bangkok, where you can explore the bustling streets and cultural heritage of the city. Take a boat tour on the Chao Phraya River and visit the Grand Palace , Wat Pho , and Wat Arun temple. Chiang Mai is another great city to visit, with its stunning temples and the old-world charm of the land. Also, this time of year offers the best opportunity for shopping experience in Thailand. 

Tips to know before visiting Thailand

• Peak season is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Thailand, so if you want to save money, visit during the shoulder or low season.
• Always check the weather before you go; rainfall is unprecedented during the wet season, so make sure you check your weather before you indulge in any activities.
• In the wet season, transportation options are more limited, as some roads and railways may be closed due to flooding.
• If you are visiting during peak season, it is best to make your plans well in advance and be prepared for large crowds.
• At night, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid mosquito bites.
• Always pack light; don't bring everything because it will be too much for you to carry around, and bring additional bags just in case.
• Remember to carry all the essential medicines that you might need, such as pain relievers, diarrhea medication, and insect repellent.
• If you are travelling with children, then it would be wise to keep some basic medical supplies to help in case of an emergency. Also, make sure that you have a sufficient supply of your regular prescription medicines.
• You will need to walk a lot, so pack a nice pair of walking shoes that are comfortable to roam around in.
• Bring sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and a hat or sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
• Also carry cash with you, as not everywhere takes card payments.
• During the wet season, many shops and businesses are closed or operate on reduced hours.  

Thailand is renowned for its stunning landscapes, beaches, temples, and vibrant culture, making it a popular tourist destination year-round. It is a great place to vacation any time of year, but if you want to enjoy the pleasant climate, the best time to visit Thailand with family is in March, April, or November . You will enjoy warm weather and clear blue skies, and you will have much less crowds for prime beach locations. So plan your trip to Thailand with Pickyourtrail and enjoy the best vacation time. Whether it is a romantic trip or a family trip we offer packages that are well suited to your needs and budget. So, Hurry up and take advantage of the best holiday experience to Thailand with Pickyourtrail .

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The climate in Thailand during December is warm and humid. The average temperature is 29 degrees Celsius, with highs of 34 degrees and lows of 24 degrees. 

Thailand offers several options when it comes to transportation, including buses, scooters, and taxis, all of which offer reasonable rates for getting around town quickly and easily. However, be mindful that taxis typically charge a premium rate for tourists compared to locals, so always ask for the price before getting into one.

Thailand hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including Songkran (Thai New Year), Loi Kratong (floating lantern festival), and Loykrathong (lantern release festival). Visiting during one of these events will give you an even better insight into Thai culture.

Thailand has been known for being a fairly safe destination for travellers; however, there are still certain things to keep in mind while visiting. Be sure not to leave your belongings unattended at any time, and always stay aware of your surroundings when exploring new areas.

The climate in Thailand during July is typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius. July is also the start of the rainy season in Thailand, so you can expect to see some rain during your visit. However, the rainfall is usually short and not too heavy, so it shouldn't spoil your trip.

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Thailand Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Thailand, a country famous for its Buddhist temples and flavorful cuisine, can be visited with a  budget of $35 to $80 a day.

My nearly two-week trip to Thailand cost a total of $1,138 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• 📍 My trip’s costs by destination

Planning a trip? Here’s what to know about Thailand .

• Is Thailand Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• Thailand vs. Vietnam Costs
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $77
• Flight: $218
• Accommodation: $211
• Transportation: $233
• Entertainment: $381
• Bangkok: $170
• Chiang Mai: $392
• Krabi/Ao Nang: $357
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash To Bring
• Credit Card Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Thailand Expensive To Travel To?

Thailand ranks as  one of the most affordable  destinations in Asia. It has a relatively low cost of living, a wide range of accommodation options that fit different budgets, and a lively, cheap street food scene.

Along with Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, Thailand is often considered an inexpensive destination  in Southeast Asia.

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Destinations in Asia

For comparison, I visited these countries in Asia within a year of visiting Thailand, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

*My Cambodia daily budget is high because I splurged on accommodation.

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Thailand?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Thailand Trip Cost

Budget travelers can expect to spend approximately $35 per day or $245 for seven days of travel in Thailand, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Thailand on a Budget

To travel to Thailand on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – For the cheapest option, stay at a  dorm-style hostel for as low as $5 a night . You can also stay at homestays where you can stay with a local family for about $12 a night.
• 🚗 Transportation – Take local buses, which can cost less than $1 per trip, or $2 songthaews, which are red passenger trucks that are common local transportation.

In Bangkok, public transportation (e.g., the MRT and BTS Skytrain) can cost less than $2 per ride . The city’s train is convenient for getting to and from Bangkok International Airport.

• 🌶️ Food – Eat at night markets and try local food at street stalls for less than $4 per meal. I ate six times at night markets in Chiang Mai and Krabi and averaged $5 per meal without trying to budget.

Tap water is generally unsafe to drink in Thailand, so you can also stock up on drinks and water at convenience stores instead of paying for them at restaurants or touristy places.

• 🐘 Entertainment – Visit free temples and monasteries instead of the famous ones with entrance fees (e.g., the famous Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace in Bangkok have a ~$15 fee). In tourist areas, you can negotiate tour prices in person instead of booking them ahead. This is especially true if you’re booking a guided tour for the next day (I did this in Krabi for the Phi Phi Islands tour, which saved me $20).
• ☀️ Travel Season – For the best deals on accommodations, travel to Thailand during the low season, which runs from April to May and July to September. April to May are the hottest months, and July to September is the wet season.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Thailand Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $80 per day or $560 for seven days of travel in Thailand, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

Is Thailand or Vietnam More Affordable To Travel To?

People often compare Thailand to Vietnam, as they are Southeast Asia’s most popular and affordable destinations .

Thailand is, on average, slightly more expensive to travel to than Vietnam. However, affordability and cost of living vary by region within each country. Still, Thailand is a more developed country, and Vietnam’s cost of living is lower than Thailand’s.

For tourists, Thailand’s cost per day is, on average, higher than Vietnam’s. Below is a rough daily budget comparison for a mid-range budget traveler.

For a seven-day trip, you can expect to spend roughly $455 in Vietnam and $560 in Thailand.

About My Thailand Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Bangkok: 3 days
• Chiang Mai: 5 days
• Krabi (Ao Nang): 4 days
• ☀️ High season – I visited Thailand in November, which is considered the high season.

Thailand’s peak season runs from November to February, when the weather is drier and cooler.

• ✌️ Group travel – I traveled with one other person, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Thailand’s local currency, the Thai baht.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = ฿ 35 at the time of writing.

Thailand Trip’s Total Cost: $1,138

My nearly two-week trip to Thailand cost a total of $1,138 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in this  Thailand itinerary .

💰 Cost Breakdown for Thailand

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Thailand: $77

My Thailand trip cost $77 per day , excluding my flights from Vietnam and to Cambodia.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $80 per day in Thailand. This generally means staying at accommodations that cost about $40 per night, eating a mix of street and restaurant food, and going on several non-private guided tours.

✈️ Flight Cost to Thailand: $218

I usually take round-trip flights from the United States, but I flew into Thailand from Vietnam and out to Cambodia for this trip. Here are my flight costs:

A round-trip flight between the US and Thailand that costs under $750 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $850.

Be aware of bag weight limits on budget airlines that hop around Asia. I flew AirAsia and VietJet Air, and both had a combined carry-on and checked-bag limit of 7kg (about 15 lbs). If you pass this limit, you’ll have to pay an extra checked bag fee. I paid $14 per bag, but some fees were as high as $45.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Thailand: $211

My average cost of accommodation in Thailand was $18 per day. I was able to split accommodations with one other person at all times.

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

Accommodations in Thailand are incredibly affordable. You can stay at a mid-range hotel for as low as $15 per night . A private room costs as low as $10 per night at a budget hotel. Even luxury hotels, which start at $150 per night , are relatively inexpensive.

🌶️ Food Cost in Thailand: $95

My average cost of food in Thailand was $8 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about  $15 per day  on food in Thailand.

Cheapest Meals in Thailand

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

Food in Thailand is extremely affordable. You can easily eat meals for $5 or less every day if you go to local restaurants, night markets, and street food stalls.

Most Expensive Meals in Thailand

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

I recommend going on a food tour early on your Thailand trip. This is the easiest and best way to discover authentic, delicious food and restaurants you can try throughout your trip.

🚗 Transportation Cost in Thailand: $233

My average cost of transportation in Thailand was $19 per day.

My average cost of transportation is high because I took two domestic flights to travel long distances within Thailand. Had I not taken any domestic flights, my average cost of transportation would have been $8 per day.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Grab rides are almost always more affordable than flagging down a taxi or tuk-tuk in Thailand. Pro tip: use Grab prices as a baseline for negotiating with taxis or tuk-tuks when they’re more conveniently available.

🐘 Entertainment Costs in Thailand: $381

My average cost of entertainment in Thailand was $32 per day. This total includes a 5% to 15% tip at certain places.

A typical mid-range traveler in Thailand can expect to spend about  $35 a day on entertainment.

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

Learn how to choose ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand.

Cost Breakdown by Destination in Thailand

Below are my trip expense breakdowns for  Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Krabi (specifically the Ao Nang area) . Bangkok and Chiang Mai are often featured in first-timers’ travel itineraries.

🏍️ Bangkok Trip’s Total Cost: $170

During my three-day trip to Bangkok, I averaged $57 in daily travel expenses.

I stayed at a mid-range budget hotel and was able to split accommodation costs with one other person. During my trip, I did a unique and memorable food tour, visited Wat Pho, and was impressed with the city’s aquarium.

Despite being the capital city and one of the more expensive places in Thailand, Bangkok is still incredibly affordable . A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $55 per day in Bangkok. You can find mid-range accommodations for less than $20 a night, eat for less than $5 a meal, and take advantage of public transportation to get around.

🐘 Chiang Mai Trip’s Total Cost: $392

During my five-day trip to Chiang Mai, I averaged $78 in daily travel expenses. Excluding my flight ticket from Krabi, my total cost was $304, and my average cost was $61 per day.

I split an Airbnb with someone and did quintessential Chiang Mai activities (e.g., visited an ethical elephant sanctuary , talked to monks , and attended a cabaret show).

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand and is affordable. A mid-range budget traveler can expect to have a daily travel budget of $60 , similar to Bangkok.

🚤 Krabi/Ao Nang Trip’s Total Cost: $357

During my four-day trip to Krabi/Ao Nang, I averaged $89 in daily travel expenses. Excluding my flight ticket to Krabi from Bangkok, my total cost was $307, and my average cost was $77 per day.

I split an Airbnb with someone and did activities like a Phi Phi Islands day tour (which included stops at the beautiful beaches of Koh Phi Phi, Ton Sai, and Bamboo Island), outdoor rock climbing at Railay Beach, and an informative and delicious northern Thailand food tour .

Krabi is less popular than Phuket in terms of Thailand beaches. But it’s still one of the pricier destinations where a mid-range budget traveler can expect to have a daily travel budget of $60 .

Do You Need Cash in Thailand?

Thailand’s economy is largely based on cash transactions , especially in non-tourist areas, so bring some cash. I needed to use cash almost everywhere when I visited.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Thailand.

💵 1. Withdraw cash in Thai baht.

Thailand’s local currency is the Thai baht (฿), and the US dollar is not widely accepted.

ATMs are readily available in many tourist places in Thailand, but if your debit card doesn’t reimburse your ATM fees, you’ll want to withdraw a higher amount less frequently to save on fees.

🏧 2. Carry about $40 to $50 worth of cash per day in Thailand.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Thailand will need  at least $40 in cash  to cover food, transportation, and attractions. A daily cash expense breakdown can look like this:

• $15 at restaurants and cafes
• $20 for tipping and entrance fees
• $5 for transportation and other miscellaneous spending

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💳 3. Very few places in Thailand take credit cards.

Being able to use a credit card in Thailand is the exception, but below are some places that accepted credit cards during my trip:

• Touristy restaurants – This was especially true in Bangkok.
• Established massage places – However, the places typically had a 3% credit card fee.
• Grab app rides – You can also tip through the app, so you don’t need cash for these.
• Malls and attractions within them – Many stores inside a mall will take cards. The Bangkok Aquarium also accepts cards.

💰 4. Tipping is not customary in Thailand.

Tipping is often appreciated in Thailand, but it’s optional. Tipping is most often expected from tourists and businesses that serve visitors.

• Tours – Tour guides will gladly accept 10% to 15% tips, especially those serving Americans.
• Dining – When eating out, you can leave behind some of the remaining change.
• Drivers – You can tip through the Grab app at about 5% to 10% if you like.
• Other service workers – Given how affordable massages are in Thailand, consider leaving a 20% tip since it won’t be that much money for you, but it can make a difference to the masseuse.

See other essential travel tips for Thailand before visiting.

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Thailand Travel Guides

• 🇹🇭 Planning A Trip To Thailand: 11 Practical Things To Know
• 🏝️ 10 Epic Days in Thailand: An Active & Unique Itinerary
• 🐘 10 Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai
• 📿 Monk Chats in Chiang Mai: How To & Firsthand Tips

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

Thank you, Lukiih. I’m glad I found your review. I’ll be arriving in BKK on 3/30 for 18 days solo. Planning on spending time in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin (maybe Joe Tien).

One of my main concerns was about credit cards and you’ve answered that fully. I’m planning on bringing $3K cash with me – I’m not a partier or fine diner but I do want to explore. Since I will need to convert $ to TB, where do you recommend doing this? The first opportunity will be in the airport. Aside from converting at the airport what I’ll need for a few days, would I get a better exchange rate at a bank?

Thank you for you help.

Hi Tom, glad you found this review helpful. I didn’t have to exchange USD for THB in Thailand, so I don’t have any firsthand tips other than the exchange rates at the airports are generally terrible.

I’m not comfortable carrying a large sum of cash when I travel, so I withdraw as I go. I have a debit card that will reimburse my ATM fees and provides a good exchange rate, so I rely on ATMs. Good luck exchanging money and enjoy your trip!

Dear Lukiin Thanks for your article, very interesting. I will fly to Tailand in one week time whit my husband and two sons 6 and 16th years old. We will stay 3 days in Bangkok, 3 days Krabi, 2 days Phi Phi Island, 2 days Raylay beach, 3 days Chiang and finely 3 day Chiang Rai. I aredy paid 3 flights between Bangkok, Krabi,, Cĥiang Mai, and from Chiang Rai back to Bangkok, also some of the hotes also payd.

Do you thin I can manage to leve for 100€ a day for 4 of us for food ets?

Hi Olga, glad you found this article helpful. I can only speak about my experience, but I think 100€ to 120€ per day is sufficient for the four of you, especially because one of your sons is so young. All of your destinations are tourist hot spots, so prices might be a tad bit higher, but Thailand is overall very affordable.

Hi there, I found your article really good so thank you. I am leaving in 1 week for a month long trip to Thailand with my 2 teenage children (lucky them right). I have only pre booked all my accommodation (pay when I arrive) and have booked all 2 internal flights and paid for them already. I have run out of time unfortunately to get a travel wise card which after much research am bummed about as seems this is the best way to avoid all the bank transactions fees. I don’t really want to carry enough cash for 4 weeks as that would be an extreme amount to take for 3 people. Do you have any advice for me or am I just going to have to use ATM machines and pay the extravagant bank fees 🙁. I am happy to use my debit card to pay for my accommodation when I arrive which will be in 5 destinations. Looked at getting a Wise Travel digital card as can get instantly and they have much lower atm fees, pretty sure most places wouldn’t have contactless ATMs or payment options being Thailand right as it’s the same as using Apple Pay (tap to pay). We are going to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Railay. Regards 🙂

Hi Sarah, glad you found this article helpful! I can only speak about my experience: – I also never carry too much on me (about $100 at most) – Yes, Thailand heavily relies on cash, so I wouldn’t depend on credit, debit cards or any tap to pay technology. – I had no trouble finding ATM machines around Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Railay. I didn’t go to Phuket, but it’s one of the most tourist-heavy destinations, so I can’t imagine them not having ATMs. – I have a debit card with zero transaction fees AND it reimburses my ATM fees, but I do remember the fees being high (about $6 for every withdrawal). The fees do suck, but Thailand is also so affordable that the fees feel like a reasonable sacrifice (e.g., you might have to pay a $6 fee every time you take out money, but your meals can also be as cheap as $3 depending on where you go). Or you might have to consider just taking out more than you’re comfortable.

Have a great time with your two lucky teens! 🍀

Very helpful article.

We’re going to Thailand for 15 days just over 2 weeks from now! As retirees with a budget that can afford comfort, we’re on a group tour for 10 days, taking a cooking class in Bangkok before our tour, and staying at a resort hotel in Phuket a few nights at the end. Our itinerary also includes overnights in Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai. Hotels and transportation are prepaid. Breakfast every day and some dinners are included, as are excursions and attractions on the tour, except for some free days. I assume the Phuket resort will accept credit card.

So I’m trying to determine how much cash we need for the two of us for the non-included meals (ranging from street food to sit-downs), attractions on our free days, and souvenirs and gifts. I’m leaning toward 50,000 Thai Baht (between $1400-$1500 US). That’s $90-$100 per day. You’re recommending $40 per day per person ($80 total), so it seems like I’ve got that plus a cushion. Do you agree? Or suggest we carry less?

Hi Ken, glad you found this article helpful.

You’re going to be in three of Thailand’s most expensive destinations: Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok, so I don’t think it hurts to bring a bit extra per person. At the same time, a lot of your trip is already covered (e.g., transportation, some meals), so I don’t think you’ll need much outside of tipping, buying small souvenirs, dining out, etc, which can all be very affordable by US’s standards.

My $40 per day estimate also includes massages, which can be very cheap in Thailand, but you might be going to nicer places. Overall, you seem to be doing a nicer trip than what I did, so roughly $80-$90 per day per person sounds right.

If you end up using significantly more or less cash after your trip, feel free to shoot me a note. I’ll be curious as to why :). Enjoy your trip!

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16 tips for a budget visit to Thailand

Oct 28, 2023 • 10 min read

These top budget tips with a guide to daily costs can help you keep your spending under control on a trip to Thailand © Chadchai Ra-ngubpai / Getty Images

Travelers looking for adventures on a shoestring flock to Thailand .

With its heady blend of pocket-friendly travel experiences, cultural surprises, easy transport, spicy-not-pricey food and one of the world’s friendliest backpacker scenes, Thailand could well be the perfect budget travel destination.

However, the cost of a trip can vary wildly depending on where you go and the levels of comfort you're looking for when you get here. Spend too much time in Bangkok, take lots of tours and drink lots of bottled beer, and you're looking at spending a whole lot more.

Here are our top tips for traveling further for less in Thailand.

1. Places to stay are cheaper in the low season

Prices for accommodations and transport shoot up from November to March, coinciding with the driest weather and travel-friendly temperatures. The July to September low season is the rainiest time of year; some ferry routes and island resorts close down completely, but accommodation prices drop significantly. Hotel rates also dip during the spring and fall shoulder seasons , which can be a rewarding time to visit without the winter crowds. 

2. Air travel into Thailand can be surprisingly low

Bangkok is one of Asia’s cheapest destinations to reach by air, particularly if you come with Qatar Airways, Etihad or another Gulf carrier, but prices creep upwards during the peak winter season. If flights to Bangkok are looking costly, investigate flights to Singapore , Kuala Lumpur and other Asian hubs, and see if you can find a cheap connection to the capital on Air Asia or another budget carrier.

Alternatively, connect to Bangkok by train . Regular trains run from Johor Bahru – just over the causeway from Singapore – to KL, Butterworth (for Penang) and north along the isthmus to Bangkok for around US$80 one way. It’s one of Asia’s most enjoyable rail journeys. 

3. Resist the taxis at the airports

Most new arrivals fly into Bangkok’s busy Suvarnabhumi International Airport, 30km (19 miles) east of Bangkok, though a few budget carriers still use Don Mueang International Airport near Chatuchak Weekend Market . At either hub, eager agents will try to talk you into expensive airport taxis.

Instead, take public transit; Suvarnabhumi has Airport Rail Link trains that connect with the downtown Skytrain and MRT network, and a free shuttle bus to a local transport terminus with cheap city buses into the center. Don Mueang has regular overground trains and slow but inexpensive local buses to the middle of Bangkok. 

At airports all over Thailand, you can often find a cheap taxi ride by flagging down a cab on the highway outside the airport-terminal complex, avoiding airport charges. Just remember to check if any highway tolls apply for the journey into town.

4. Stay in homestays or hostels

Accommodation prices in Thailand have been climbing steadily for years, in line with rising standards. Many backpacker places are edging into boutique-hotel territory, with cafes, bars, wi-fi and pools, and the US$5 box rooms of old are a dying breed.

To keep a lid on costs, sleep in dorms; rates start around 250B. For not too much more, you can find basic rooms and bungalows with shared bathrooms and fans rather than A/C (or central air-conditioning instead of a unit in every room). If you're traveling with friends, sharing triple and quad rooms can be a great way to save money.

Camping can be astonishingly cheap, with rates at many national parks starting from 30B per person. Homestays are another inexpensive option in rural areas; rooms tend to be rustic but comfortable, and you get authentic home cooking and cultural immersion in the bargain. Also, look out for discounted rates at hostels and budget hotels via booking sites such as Booking.com and Agoda.

5. Skip internal flights and tourist minivans for local buses and trains

Even if you stick to budget airlines, flying internally in Thailand and making use of those oh-so-convenient tourist minivans will jack up your travel costs. Instead, use public buses or travel in second or third-class carriages on the trains. 

If you don’t mind sleeping in a reclining seat, you can save the cost of a berth (and a hotel room) by taking a slow overnight train or overnight bus. Buy tickets directly from bus and train operators to avoid travel agent fees.

Buses run by the state transport company Baw Khaw Saw (BKS) are usually cheaper than private buses. Most bus stations have ticketing halls where all the companies advertise their destinations so that you can compare fares. Ordinary and express buses are cheaper (but less comfortable) than VIP buses or luxury VIP24 or VIP32 buses, named for the number of seats on board. 

6. Take taxis or a  sŏrng·tăa·ou  instead of tuk-tuks

For local trips, regard tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) as a travel experience rather than a serious means of transport. Prices are routinely hiked for tourists,  and trips often involve detours to commission-paying souvenir shops and other establishments. Sǎamláw – three-wheeled pedicabs – also work on a bargaining system, but they’re not too expensive for short hops. 

A metered taxi is usually a more stable bet – just be aware that traffic jams can make even a short journey slow and expensive. Rideshares can be summoned through Grab and other apps, but you’ll often pay more than you would for a regular taxi. For trips around town (or from town to nearby villages), by far the cheapest option is the sŏrng·tăa·ou – a pick-up truck with benches that operates like a local bus.

7. It's cheap to rent a motorcycle or scooter, but ride carefully!

Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a remarkably cheap way to get around in Thailand , particularly for local exploring. In most traveler centers, you can pick up a ride for as little as 150B per day, and petrol costs around 40B per liter. Thailand has a shocking rate of traffic accidents, so ride cautiously and slowly and make sure liability insurance is included as part of the hire. It may not be enough to rely on your own travel insurance.

8. Eat at street stalls and night markets

If you find restaurant dining is eating through your stock of baht, look to street stalls and wandering hawker carts that are always gratifyingly inexpensive. Stick to busy stalls and avoid uncooked fruit and veg.

As dusk falls across Thailand, street corners, parking lots, boat jetties and station forecourts transform into bustling night markets, where some of the best food in town can be had for low prices. Indeed, grazing from pàt tai noodle stall to sà·dé (satay) stand to ðôm yam soup vendor is one of Thailand’s great pleasures. For a real bargain, seek out the food courts attached to bus stations and other transport hubs, where bowls of noodle soup and other tasty local snacks can be had for penny prices.

9. Expect a high tax on alcohol

Going out in Thailand can be surprisingly expensive because of the taxes on alcohol. Knocking back the bottles of Singha or Chang beer can easily double your meal bill, so sip slowly or do as locals do and share a bottle of Thai whiskey or rum (usually enjoyed with ice and soda or cola). If only a beer will do, Chang is usually cheaper than Singha.

10. There's rarely a cover charge at live music bars

For inexpensive evening entertainment, a trip to a live music bar gives a lot of bang for not many bahts. There’s rarely a cover charge, and most venues have a rotating line-up of bands playing technically adept covers of popular songs. 

11. National parks have entry fees, and activities can be costly

Entry fees to Thailand’s many national parks are not too onerous – typically 200–300B – but they can add up. The big costs are usually associated with transport into national parks and organized activities such as guided hikes , boat trips and scuba diving. If you’re looking to save money, competition between operators keeps prices down at Khao Sok National Park and Khao Yai National Park . 

Accommodations at national parks, on the other hand, are very reasonably priced, with bungalows going for 350-500B and tent spaces costing from 30B (US$0.90) per person. Tents are often available for rent for around 150B. Most national parks with accommodations also have basic canteens offering simple Thai dishes at budget prices.

12. Thailand’s minor monasteries are often free to visit

Thailand’s most famous monasteries – including Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok – charge pricey entry fees for tourists. If you’re watching the pennies, smaller monasteries are often completely free to visit, and they are arguably more interesting because of the absence of photo-snapping crowds. In any town you pass through, ask a local for tips on the most interesting wát in the area – there’ll always be something intriguing to see.

13. Hot spring treatments are cheaper than spas 

Thailand’s spas are world-famous, and the sky is the limit when it comes to prices at the luxe end of the market. However, you can find therapeutic treatments for a song at dozens of natural hot springs dotted around the hills of northern Thailand. 

Chiang Mai in the north is ringed by government-run hot spring complexes, where therapeutic baths and other treatments come at highly agreeable prices. At Pha Daeng National Park , access to the pools costs just 100B, and you can camp for 30B per person; entry prices are similar at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.

14. Seek out economical Thai massages 

Having a vigorously relaxing Thai massage is de rigueur on a trip to Thailand, and you can pay the earth at posh hotels and luxury spas. At the other end of the spectrum, you can enjoy a pocket-friendly pummeling from former convicts at Chiang Mai’s Vocational Training Centre of the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution and Lila Thai Massage , where many graduates work full-time. 

Alternatively, head to the massage pavilions on the grounds of Thai monasteries, where massages are performed by people trained in traditional Buddhist massage, as taught by the monks of Bangkok’s Wat Pho , the spiritual birthplace of Thai massage.

15. Thailand is one of the cheapest places to learn to scuba dive

Budget travelers can breathe easy – Thailand is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive. An open water dive certification course on Ko Tao will cost around 10,000B, and dives start from 1500B if you go in off the beach. While Ko Tao is the cheapest dive hub, other inexpensive spots include Ko Lanta and Ko Phi Phi .

16. Bring your own gear for free experiences

Every imaginable adrenaline activity is possible in Thailand, from canyoning and kiteboarding to bungee jumping, zip-lining and jungle trekking. However, prices can be steep, particularly for organized, tourist-oriented trips that include transport. If you want thrills at minimum cost, head to Railay near Krabi, Thailand’s favorite rock climbing playground, where epic limestone routes start right off the beach. There’s no charge to climb with your own gear (or it can be rented cheaply), and budget rooms are available at Hat Ton Sai. If you've got your own snorkeling gear, you can see the underwater world for free at beaches across Thailand .

A guide to daily costs in Thailand

• Basic guesthouse room: 500–1000B (US$15–30)
• Market/street-stall meal: 40–100B (US$1.20–3.00)
• Bottle of local beer: 80B (US$2.40)
• Organized tour or activity: from 1500B (US$45)
• Motorbike or scooter hire per day: 150–300B (US$4.50–9.00)

This article was first published February 2022 and updated October 2023

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• Travel Planning Guide

Is Thailand Expensive?

• Is Thailand expensive?

How expensive is Thailand?

How expensive is a one week trip to thailand, how expensive is a two week trip to thailand.

• How expensive is a one month trip to Thailand?

Is it expensive to backpack in Thailand?

Are hotels expensive in thailand.

• How expensive are activities in Thailand?

Is food expensive in Thailand?

Is transportation expensive in thailand, is thailand expensive to visit.

While Thailand is a popular destination, it is also fairly affordable and not very expensive to visit. Compared to other countries in Asia, travelers find it to be a moderately priced country. Ranked in the top 50% of countries in Asia for its travel costs, our cost analysis found it to be comparable to countries such as Malaysia and Bhutan.

Because Thailand is such a touristy destination, there are a number of terrific places within the country that attract visitors. Some of the most expensive places to visit in Thailand include Ao Nang, Khao Lak, and Similan Islands. For more affordability, you can visit places like Hat Yai, Chumphon, and Koh Tao.

The average daily spending amount for tourists in Thailand tends to be around $81 (U.S. Dollars). Keep in mind that your travel style, spending habits, and trip length will influence these costs. However, you can keep fairly close to this budget if you opt for moderately priced hotels, dine at economical restaurants, and make use of public transportation when available. See more travel costs for Thailand here .

On average, a one week trip to Thailand costs about $569 per person. This is based on the previous expenses of actual travelers, and includes accommodation, food, activities, local transportation, and more. For two people, a one week trip costs $1,138.

A two week trip to Thailand costs about $1,138 per person on average, based on the previous expenses of other travelers. This includes accommodation, sightseeting activities, transportation, food, and nightlife. For two people, a two week trip costs $2,275.

How expensive is a month long trip to Thailand?

Based on the travel expenses of others, a one month trip to Thailand costs around $2,438 on average, per person. This includes food, sightseeing, local transportation, accommodation, and nightlife. For two people, a one month trip costs $4,875.

Thailand is a very popular destination for backpackers, offering an extensive network of over 690 hostels across the country. The average cost for a dorm room in these hostels is approximately $10 per night. (See detailed information on hostel prices in Thailand here .) Notably, backpackers often flock to the popular hostels in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, Koh Chang, Ayutthaya, and Pai has some of the most affordable hostels, averaging $7, $7, and $7 per night. Conversely, you'll find the most expensive hostels on average in Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, and Phuket with an average cost of $13, $12, and $12 per night.

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Thailand.

• $10 for a dorm bed at NapPark Hostel at Khao San in Bangkok more details
• $9 for a dorm bed at Stamps Backpackers in Chiang Mai more details
• $14 for a dorm bed at Lub d Phuket Patong in Phuket more details

When considering the analysis of hotel prices in Thailand , it becomes apparent that they are notably more budget-friendly compared to other countries. The average nightly price for a hotel room is around $33. However, within Thailand, be aware of varying prices across cities, with destinations like Koh Samui commanding a higher average of $109 per night. For those looking for more economical choices, Hat Yai offers a budget-friendly alternative, with hotel prices averaging $18 per night.

Summit Pavilion Hotel

Phuket kata resort.

How expensive are sightseeing activities in Thailand?

Activities and things to do in Thailand can vary in price depending on the type of activity, length, and location. Below are a number of popular activities to give you an idea of what to expect when visiting. Generally, previous travelers have spent $18 per day on sightseeing activities and things to do when visiting.

• Half Day Cycling Tour to the White temple Viator $ 41
• Half Day Cycling Tour to the White temple: $41
• LIFECYCLING - Half Day City Bike Tour: $36
• John Gray’s James Bond Island Tour with Sea Cave Kayaking: $100
• Top 3 Bangkok Temples Private Tour [Wat Pho-UNESCO & AR]: $106
• Sunrise Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Tour in Koh Samui: $42
• Koh Tao VIP Snorkelling Tour : $158
• Sticky Waterfalls Tour Chiang Mai Thailand With Annie: $48
• Bangkok Night Tour: Food, Temple & Tuk Tuk: $63

Food in Thailand can vary in price depending on the restaurant and food options available. Generally, other travelers have spent $17 on food per person per day. To save money, eat at less expensive restaurants, try street food, or cook your own meals when possible.

• Benny's Home Cooking Chiang Mai Viator $ 44
• Benny's Home Cooking Chiang Mai: $44
• Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class: $57
• Half-Day Thai Cooking Class with organic ingredients: $50
• Half Day Evening Cooking Class with Yummy Tasty Thai Cooking School: $25
• Online Thai and Akha Cooking Class: $35
• Private 6-Hour Thai Cooking Class With Boat Ride, Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner: $148

Local transportation in Thailand can vary in price depending on the type of transit used. Generally, other travelers have spent $12 on local transportation per person per day. To save money, take public transit whenever possible, as it will almost always be cheaper than a taxi or private driver.

Intercity transportation in Thailand can vary widely in price depending on the type of transit used and the distance traveled. Generally, other travelers have spent $118 on intercity transportation per person per day. To save money, take long distance buses or trains instead of flying, as it will almost always be cheaper, even if it's slower.

More for Thailand

If you're planning a trip to Thailand, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Thailand Trip Cost – Budget Tips and Prices in 2024

• Last Updated: January 17, 2024

Read on for a detailed breakdown of what it costs to travel to Thailand, whether you’re a budget traveler or looking to splurge. 

Before travelling to Thailand many travellers find themselves asking, “Is Thailand cheap?” or “What does a Thailand trip actually cost?” or “What are the best tips for saving money in Thailand?”

These are all valid questions and hopefully this article will answer them!

Thailand is a very affordable country to visit. Though it isn’t as cheap as its Southeast Asian neighbours, like Laos or Cambodia , Thailand is still a very affordable travel destination. 

Budget travellers can easily have an incredible time exploring Thailand cheaply.

Mid-range accommodations and restaurants allow travellers to treat themselves a bit more without spending a fortune, and there are lots of affordable activities to enjoy in Thailand as well. 

For those that want the real luxury travel experience, Thailand has that too, and it isn’t even out-of-the-question expensive.

But for the average traveller, who wants to have an amazing cultural experience without spending an entire years’ worth of savings, Thailand is the perfect country to visit. 

With this post, you’ll learn about what things actually cost in Thailand, and how to break down the cost of a trip. 

Of course, the actual cost of a trip to Thailand will depend on the individual traveller and their personal preferences. 

But for those looking for a general idea of a Thailand travel budget, this is the article for you!

While discussing prices in Thailand, I’ll be using USD. Because this is such a universal currency, hopefully, the prices will make more sense than if I list them in Thai Baht. (1 USD equals roughly 30 THB)

Table of Contents

Backpacker Budget: Average daily budget: $25-50 USD

Mid range budget: average daily budget: $60-100 usd , luxury traveler budget: average daily budget: $200-400 usd, getting to thailand by air, getting to thailand by land, public transport in thailand, long journeys, short journeys, street food, buying groceries, local restaurant, tourist restaurant, fancy restaurant, drinking in thailand, guest house/cheap hotel, mid-range hotel, luxury hotel, activity cost breakdown in thailand, thailand budget travel tips, thailand trip cost: how much does it cost to travel to thailand.

Wondering how much does it cost to travel to Thailand? Considering the information presented in this post, creating a Thailand travel budget can be quite simple. 

Think about whether you want to travel on a backpacker budget, a mid-range traveller budget, or a luxury budget. You can even mix-and-match, penny-pinching at times and splurging here and there. 

Formulating a Thailand travel budget is all up to the individual, but this breakdown of an average Thailand trip cost should help you get an idea of what you’ll spend. 

* Attractions vary greatly by personal interest and can be the same at any level of budget

If you live the backpacker lifestyle and always pick the cheapest options while travelling around Thailand, it is very easy to explore Thailand on a budget. 

There are plenty of free attractions to see, like temples, street markets, waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints. 

Some popular attractions may have entrance fees, but they are usually close to nothing. 

A budget traveler in Thailand would have average daily expenses that may look something like this:

• Hostel dorm bed: 10 USD
• Fruit smoothie: 2 USD
• Temple entrance fee: 2 USD
• 2 street food meals: 8 USD
• Taxi ride: 2 USD
• 1 beer from 7/11: 1 USD
• Total Cost: 25 USD

But make sure you aren’t so stingy with money that you miss out on special experiences!

You can book activities with the cheapest companies and pack a few fun day trips into your schedule. 

Book a half-day island snorkelling tour for 30 USD, take a local cooking class for 30 USD, or hit up a Thai boxing match for 15 USD. 

Take cheap buses around the country, avoid drinking too much, and hang out with the locals. 

A budget traveler should have no problem enjoying themselves in Thailand!

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money than the average backpacker, you can upgrade your Thailand travel budget to include more fun things. 

Visit all the best attractions, even if they cost a bit more. 

Treat yourself to some nice cocktails on the beach here and there. Book a one-hour Thai massage, or maybe throw in a full-day scuba-diving trip. 

Stay in affordable hotel rooms and eat a wide range of foods that include cheap street food and some nice restaurant meals. 

An average day may look like this:

• Budget double room in a hotel: 22 USD
• Lunch in a restaurant: 6 USD
• Cocktail: 5 USD
• Street food for dinner: 4 USD
• Souvenir shopping: 5 USD
• Cabaret Show: 15 USD
• Taxi ride: 3 USD
• Total Cost: 60 USD

On a mid-range budget, you can dish out more money on the things that matter to you the most. 

You can pay for more day trips if you want to explore more, or you can treat yourself to more food and drinks if you like eating out. 

Whatever you choose, you can still have the trip of a lifetime without completely breaking the bank. 

If you really decide to lash out on a luxury vacation to Thailand, you’ll be surprised at how affordable it is. 

If you’re willing to spend lots of money, you can also pay for all the best activities. 

You can book guided temple tours, incredible speedboat island-hopping tours, spa and massage treatments, private cooking lessons, and everything else under the sun. 

You can indulge in all the best food and drinks, and stay in five-star accommodation. 

For those who dream of a vacation like this, but don’t think they can afford it, Thailand is a relatively cheap place to live like a king or queen, so take a look at this average daily budget breakdown. 

• Luxury suite in a nice hotel: 150 USD
• Private temple tour: 50 USD
• Thai cooking lesson: 30 USD
• Lunch in a tourist restaurant: 10 USD
• Drinks on the beach: 30 USD
• Spa treatment: 20 USD
• Dinner in a nice restaurant: 30 USD
• Total cost: 320 USD per day

Though most travellers won’t be living the luxury lifestyle in Thailand, it is interesting to see the actual costs. 

Probably the most rewarding way to travel Thailand is by using a mid-range budget. 

You can still kick it with the locals, eat street food and drink cheap local beer, but spend a bit of money on amazing activities and nicer accommodation. 

Backpacking Thailand is also a really fun and character-building experience. 

You’ll learn a lot from navigating public transport and deciphering foreign menus. While staying in hostels, you’ll also meet lots of incredible people. 

So a Thailand travel budget does not have to send you into bankruptcy. 

Travel with a frugal attitude, an open mind, and positive energy and you’ll have an unforgettable trip!

Breakdown of Thailand Costs

With a general overview of the Thailand costs at various budgets, below you will find information to help you navigate specific budget items.

These will include costs of:

• Transportation (to and around)
• Accommodation

I’ll also end the article with some budget travel tips. If you’re looking to save money, these tips will help you enjoy Thailand for cheaper.

Cost of Transportation in Thailand

Wondering how much does it cost to get around Thailand? Here is a breakdown of the costs of getting to Thailand, and getting around within the country. Local transportation is affordable here!

READ MORE: Check out my other guide on transportation in Thailand for a better idea of how to get around.

The cost of flying to Thailand depends on where you are travelling. 

If you are travelling from the Americas or Europe, chances are your flight will be very long and quite expensive. 

However, there are certain budget travel tips to keep in mind that will help you find the cheapest flight to Thailand. 

• Plan your trip to Thailand during the off-season (April through October) 
• Check websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights that show you the cheapest departure dates for an entire month
• Don’t be afraid to take weird layovers; the prices may be cheaper!
• Consider changing your departure airport if possible (For example, flying from NYC to Bangkok is cheaper than flying from Boston to Bangkok).

Use these same tips no matter where you are flying from, and you should be able to score a reasonably priced flight to Thailand. 

If you’re travelling to Thailand overland, your travel will most likely be incredibly cheap. 

The most affordable way to get to Thailand from bordering countries is by bus. 

Countless different bus companies travel to Thailand from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, and the journey will usually cost around 20-40 USD. Depending on where you are starting your trip to Thailand, it may be cheaper to travel by land.

Once you arrive in Thailand, you’ll be using public transport to get around the country (unless you rent a car). 

The typical traveller’s route in Thailand starts in Bangkok , then goes up to the north to Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai , and Pai , then goes down south to the islands. 

So you’ll probably be travelling long distances within the country, and luckily these journeys can be very cheap.

Here is a general idea of what different local transportation options cost when you visit Thailand:

Here is the average cost of travelling long distances around Thailand via local transportation. 

Flights 

For covering long distances around the country, flying local budget airlines is the best option. You can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or from Bangkok to the islands, in just one hour. 

Using budget airlines like Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, or Thai Vietjet, the average cost of a one-way domestic flight is between 30-50 USD. 

Keep in mind though that if you want to fly, your Thailand trip cost will go up.

Bus or Train

A long bus or train journey through Thailand, say from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, costs on average about 20-50 USD on local transportation. 

So the average price for buses or trains is very similar to flights, but they can take up to 12 hours instead of 1. 

If you’re a fan of slow travel and seeing the countryside, buses or trains are the way to get around on your trip to Thailand. 

But it is much quicker and just as cheap to catch a flight, so that’s probably the easiest way to travel long distances in Thailand. 

The best deals for internal ground transport in Thailand are on 12Go.asia .

For getting around one city or general area, here is a breakdown of the transport costs. If you’re in a big city like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, there are plenty of options to travel within and around the city.

Smaller towns have fewer options, but still should at least have the following:

These red-pick-up trucks serve as collective taxis, and they are the cheapest and easiest way to take day trips to a certain city or island of Thailand. 

If you wait for the whole truck to fill up, everyone can split the cost and the ride becomes cheaper. 

If you’re travelling 5-20 minutes within a city, your journey shouldn’t cost more than a couple of dollars. 

If you’re taking a long day trip and the drive is an hour, the whole journey may cost about 50 USD. But split between 10 people, you’re still only paying about 5 USD for a long trip. 

For travelling quick distances within a city, taxis are the second cheapest way to travel. 

Only use taxis that have meters, and your quick journey won’t cost more than 5 USD. 

These motorized, three-wheeled scooters are a fun way to travel in Thailand, but the drivers tend to overcharge tourists. 

It is common for a tuk tuk ride to cost up to 10 USD, which seems cheap but is definitely overpriced for local transportation in Thailand. 

Ask locals what a specific tuk tuk journey should cost and make sure you clarify it with the driver before you go so he doesn’t rip you off. 

For travelling through the Thai islands, you’ll have to take ferries. 

There is usually only one route to get from one island to the next, and the cost of the journey is in the same range regardless of which ferry company you take. 

An average ferry journey costs around 20 USD, give or take a bit depending on how long the ride is. 

Cost of Food in Thailand

Thailand is truly a foodie’s paradise. 

There is so much delicious Thai food and it is all very affordable, so food won’t take up a big portion of your Thailand travel budget.

Here is a summary of the different types of places to eat in Thailand and how much they cost. 

Eating at street markets is the cheapest way to eat in Thailand. 

You can get full plates of food for as cheap as 1 USD, and little snacks like fruit platters and spring rolls cost less than 1 USD each. 

This is also where you’ll find the most authentic local Thai food, so street markets are the way to go regardless of your budget. 

If you plan on cooking your own meals, street markets are still the best places to shop. 

Big western-style grocery stores are rare in Thailand. Occasionally you’ll find little markets or 7/11s that sell staples like rice, noodles, snacks, and processed foods. 

But for buying produce, meat, seafood, and spices, the street markets have the freshest and cheapest food. 

Produce costs barely anything; you can buy a bag full of fruit for only a couple of dollars. 

Cooking is a great way to save money, but honestly, street food in Thailand is so cheap that you might as well just eat the food cooked by the locals.

For eating out in a restaurant, the cheapest option is eating at a small, humble, local joint that only has a few menu items. 

A full meal in a restaurant like this can cost between 40 and 100 Baht, which is roughly 2-4 USD. 

In touristy areas of Thailand, you’ll find lots of restaurants geared towards foreigners. 

This is where you’ll find western-style food like pizza, burgers, and European food in addition to classic Thai meals. 

A meal in a tourist restaurant generally costs between 100 and 200 Baht, still only 3 to 6 USD. 

Even in upscale restaurants, the price of food is very cheap. 

A full meal in a super high-quality restaurant can cost a few hundred Baht, and it is rare to find something that costs over 30 USD. 

So Thailand is an awesome place to treat yourself to the nicest restaurants and still spend much less than you would at home!

The cost of alcohol in Thailand varies. 

Beer is the cheapest beverage, whereas wine and liquor are often imported so they are pricier. 

If you buy your beer from a convenience store like a 7/11, it will only cost 1 or 2 USD. 

Ordering a beer in a bar or restaurant is a bit more expensive, but is still the cheapest drink, costing only about 3 USD. 

As for liquor, a mixed drink or cocktail can cost between 3 and 6 USD depending on the venue.

So though drinking in Thailand isn’t expensive, one of the best tips for saving money in Thailand is to just cut down on drinking in general and saving your cash for food and activities. 

READ MORE: Make sure you know all of the best foods to eat in Thailand !

Accommodation Costs in Thailand

There are plenty of places to stay during your trip to Thailand for any type of travel budget. 

Accommodation tends to consume the majority of a Thailand travel budget, but it is still very affordable compared to other destinations around the world. 

The Thailand cost of living is cheap too, so if you plan to stay here for a while you can probably secure somewhere affordable to stay long-term.

The cheapest form of accommodation in Thailand is a backpacker hostel. 

The average cost for one night in a dorm room is between 8 and 15 USD. The $8 hostels will be more basic, whereas the $10-$15 hostels will be much nicer. 

Even though the cost is cheap, all of Thailand’s hostels are generally very well-kept and full of great facilities. 

Thailand has lots of guest houses that are like small, simple, and cheap hotels. 

You can find a basic budget double room for anywhere between 20 and 30 USD per night. 

If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a budget double room in a cheap hotel rather than paying for two hostel dorm beds. 

Make sure you book your hostels ahead of time on Hostelworld if you want to get the best ones, as they often sell out.

Even a mid-range Thailand hotel can be very cheap compared to western standards. 

A beautiful hotel with a pool and lots of amenities can cost as low as 20 USD per night, though the average cost is anywhere between 30 and 60 USD per night. 

If you’re looking to treat yourself to the finest hotels and resorts in Thailand, there are so many amazing options. 

Especially when travelling in the islands, you can find stunning beachfront suites that will cater to your every need. 

True luxury hotels in Thailand can cost anywhere between 100 and 300 USD per night. 

There are a few rare finds that cost even more, such as renting an entire ocean view villa for thousands of dollars, but chances are most average travellers won’t be looking for places like that. 

After paying for all the necessities, like food, transport, and accommodation, you can start planning your budget for the fun stuff!

There are endless opportunities for adventure in Thailand, and you should at least participate in a few fun activities during your stay. 

Tours and activities in Thailand vary in terms of price and quality. Some tour companies are more upscale and established, so their tours cost more. 

The quality of your tour just depends on how much you are willing to spend. 

Here is a quick cost breakdown of some of the most popular tours and activities in Thailand that you may be interested in trying. 

The actual price will vary depending on the location and the company you book through, but here is a general idea of the average prices. 

• Island Hopping day trip: 30-100 USD
• Diving or Snorkeling day trip: 50-150 USD
• Thai Massage: 5-15 USD per hour
• Muay Thai Boxing Match: 10-20 USD
• Ladyboy Cabaret Show: 15-25 USD
• Cooking Class: 30 USD-60 USD
• Guided Temple Tour: 20-70 USD

READ MORE: Be sure to check out these incredible things to do in Thailand !

To summarise all the information throughout this post, here are some of the best budget travel tips for Thailand that will help you save money throughout your trip.

• Travelling during the off-season to enjoy cheaper flight prices
• Fly budget airlines to save money and time when travelling long distances in Thailand
• Try to share songtaews with other travellers so everyone pays a cheaper price and you can all limit transportation costs
• Don’t let tuk tuk drivers rip you off! Secure a fair price before you get in the vehicle
• Eat street food whenever possible. Not only is it super cheap, it’s authentic and delicious.
• Drink local beer when going out; it’s the most affordable option for alcohol in Thailand.
• If you’re a solo traveller, you can score a bed in some epic hostels for less than 10 USD per night.
• If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a private double room in a guesthouse or hotel, rather than paying for 2 dorm beds.
• Treat yourself to a nice room in a hotel at least once in Thailand! Even if you’re on a backpacker budget, you can find some incredible deals.
• Take advantage of all the free activities in Thailand, like hiking, exploring temples, and visiting the beach.
• Attractions in Thailand are usually very affordable, so definitely spend a bit of money on some fun things like cooking classes, boxing matches, massages, or snorkelling tours.
• Spending money on experiences in Thailand is almost always worth it. Book tours with reputable companies and enjoy every minute of Thai culture!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I am looking to travel to Thailand as well!!! I am apprehensive about travelling alone. I am 56 female and looking for an adventure: it will be my first time travelling over that way. I have done the Caribbean islands before. .

thanks for the tips,im 65 and would like to find a travelling companian that would like to say go from phuket to chang mai any sights that i can look on that you know of,thanks for your time.

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Is Thailand Expensive?

BY Jess Leak

Southeast Asia is one of the world's most affordable travel destinations, particularly Thailand. So the short answer to the question of "Is Thailand expensive to visit?" is...no!

Of course, it depends on whether you want to travel frugally or if you want to indulge yourself in luxury! But no matter how you travel, you can get a LOT for your money in Thailand compared to many of the other countries in the world, with relatively cheap living and travel costs.

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Here we outline what you can expect to get for your money when it comes to flights, food, transport, sightseeing, and accommodation. Your choices can affect how expensive Thailand is to visit, but you can definitely go on a smaller budget than you might expect!

Cost of Flights to Thailand

Estimated expense: US $113 - $550 for a return ticket

When it comes to visiting Thailand, it’s quite likely that the cost of your flight will take up a large chunk of your entire trip budget, as once you’re there, living expenses are very low! 

Obviously, the costs of flights differ across airlines. Time of year, location, and ticket class will also alter the cost of your flights. It can be helpful to take this into consideration when planning the costs of visiting Thailand.

The list below gives you an idea of what you can expect to pay for a flight ticket from some major cities during their cheapest month:

New York to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $200-530 USD

London to Suvarnabhumi Airport: £150-480 GBP

Sydney to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $196- 549 AUD

Vancouver to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $320-790 CAN

If you don’t mind a bit of research, you can save yourself some money by looking for error fares and special deals.

It’s also worthwhile to know that Bangkok’s international airport, Suvarnabhumi is the cheapest to fly into the country.

Cost of Food in Thailand

Trying the local cuisine is one of the most exciting parts of traveling to a new country, right? The range of affordable food in Thailand certainly doesn’t disappoint!

Thailand has an interesting, diverse, and quite frankly, the mouth-watering spread of food and beverages on offer, from refreshing iced coffees and Thai rolled ice cream to basil chicken and Panang (peanut) curry; there is so much delicious food to enjoy here.

And the best bit? It’s also super cheap! Some of the best food you can get in Thailand is also the cheapest. Food stalls on almost every street corner and market are dedicated to delicious food alone, making your trip to Thailand as inexpensive as possible.

Here’s an example of some of the most popular food in Thailand and their costs:

Pad Thai with chicken: around $1

Thai curries: $1 – $3.50

Meal at a local restaurant: $3 – $5

Eating local food is always the most inexpensive option. As soon as you start ordering Western-style dishes, the price will increase. But even these meals are super cheap compared to what you’re probably used to paying - making a vacation to Thailand on a budget completely possible!

Of course, there are also many more upmarket, well-respected restaurants and bars, which will be more expensive, but you’re guaranteed to have a luxurious experience.

Cost of Travel in Thailand

Estimated expense: US $1 – $60/day

Thailand is affordable in terms of travel prices. Bangkok, in particular, is very well connected and many different public transport modes are available for tourists, even the three-wheeled Tuk Tuk!

The train system has extensive country coverage, connecting nearly all of its cities and tourist destinations. The train offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel for tourists but is rather slow.

A train ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai could cost you roughly US $20 – 60 (first class), which isn’t much considering the distance. The train is wonderful if you want to take in the Thai landscape over long distances, but the bus or taxi is a more convenient option for shorter distances.

Thailand’s bus system is also highly developed. Many smaller cities have bus schedules that allow for long-distance travel to other cities and attractions within the country. With a range of ways to get around and access lots of different locations, traveling in Thailand doesn’t have to be an expensive business!

Taxis and tuk-tuks are also very accessible all over Thailand and are a very easy way to get around, despite the traffic in Bangkok! Just remember to ensure the taxi meter is on before you start your journey! The cost of travel in Thailand is accessible to everyone, so whatever your budget, you can be sure you’ll be able to get around safely and cheaply.

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Cost of Sightseeing in Thailand

Thailand is an extremely versatile country, with the North and South being completely different but equally as interesting! Wherever you are in the country, there will be many amazing sightseeing opportunities at affordable prices.

There are tons of cool temples to visit as well as colorful and extravagant markets and more! Again, the price will depend on the particular activity you’re doing, with some costing more than others, but in general, most activities are very affordable. The cost of a Thailand vacation doesn’t have to break the bank, and you can still visit some amazing places!

Here are some estimated costs for some awesome Thailand activities:

White Temple of Northern Thailand: $1.50

Museum of Death: $6.50

The Grand Palace: $15

A great way to make the most of all the incredible activities on offer is to book an all-inclusive tour. This ensures you won’t miss anything and means you don’t have to worry about logistics!

We run tours in Bangkok , tours in Phuket , tours in Chiang Mai , and tours in Krabi . All of our tours in Thailand are all-inclusive, meaning you don’t have to worry about paying for any added extras and you get a friendly local tour guide to show you around and share their local knowledge with you!

Cost of Accommodation in Thailand

This country has incredibly reasonable rates compared to other holiday destinations, whether you’re a backpacker, Airbnb enthusiast, or full-on luxury traveler! The accommodation cost in Thailand accommodates all budgets, so you don’t need to worry about having too small a budget.

If it’s luxury you’re after, accommodation will obviously be a bit more expensive (although still great value for money). Hostels, beach bungalows, and Airbnb are the way to go if you want to keep your Thailand budget tighter.

If you’re on a budget, Thailand has hostels across its thriving cities. You can expect to pay anywhere from $6 per night for a bed to $80 for a private 2-sleeper room.

If you’re more of a lone wolf than a social creature, then Airbnb might be for you. Some people are also just the self-catering type, which means a flat with a kitchen is where it’s at. Airbnb prices can also vary depending on the scale of comfort you are looking for and the location. You could expect to spend between $30 and $110 per night.

Hotels are definitely the most expensive option but also the most luxurious! And, just because they are more expensive than hostels and Airbnb doesn’t mean they are expensive.

In fact, for those who are looking for all the bells and whistles of accommodation, hotels could be the first choice. Think swimming pools, refreshing designer cocktails, room service, and fresh towels. A night’s stay in a Thailand hotel can range from $60 to $500 or higher, depending on the level of luxury. All in all, the cost of accommodation in Thailand can depend on how you want to live during your stay, but can be very inexpensive if you have a smaller budget.

So, if you’re on a budget, this is the perfect destination for you! Equally, if you fancy splashing out and living in luxury for a while, you’re sure to get the most for your money in the ‘Land of Smiles.’ 

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Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

Thailand, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and renowned hospitality, offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the south and the lush mountains of the north, this guide will take you through the diverse facets of Thailand, ensuring a journey filled with discovery and wonder.

Bangkok, a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity, offers an experience like no other. As you navigate its bustling streets, you’ll encounter magnificent temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, standing as serene sanctuaries amidst the urban chaos. The Grand Palace, a former royal residence, highlights the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

For shopping enthusiasts, the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market presents a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to local handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Bangkok’s renowned street food, where dishes like Pad Thai and Som Tam are served with authentic flavors.

The city’s vibrant nightlife, from rooftop bars to lively street markets, pulsates with energy, offering a glimpse into the contemporary lifestyle of Bangkok’s residents. Navigating Bangkok explores contrasts, where each turn presents a new facet of this dynamic city.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the lesser-known but equally impressive Wat Benchamabophit for a more tranquil temple experience.

How To Get There: Bangkok is accessible by its two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. The city has an extensive public transport system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February is ideal, with pleasant weather and numerous festivals.

2. Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, you’ll find a more laid-back atmosphere than Bangkok’s frenetic energy. The city is replete with historic temples, the most famous being Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, each offering a peaceful retreat and a look into the spiritual practices of the locals. The Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street Market are hubs for artisanal crafts and street food, reflecting the city’s artistic flair and culinary richness.

Just outside the city, the lush landscapes of Doi Inthanon National Park await, with trekking trails leading to waterfalls and hill tribe villages. Chiang Mai’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and nature, providing a holistic experience of Thailand’s northern region.

Whether you’re exploring its ancient temples, engaging in a traditional Thai cooking class, or wandering through its vibrant markets, Chiang Mai captivates with its serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Take a Thai cooking class to delve deeper into the region’s unique flavors.

How To Get There: Chiang Mai has an international airport and is also accessible by train or bus from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, particularly in November, for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a blend of experiences catering to those seeking relaxation and adventure. The island’s beaches, like Patong, Kata, and Karon, offer a range of atmospheres, from bustling shores with water sports activities to more tranquil retreats. Beyond its stunning beaches, Phuket’s Old Town reveals a different side of the island, with Sino-Portuguese architecture and a burgeoning arts scene.

A visit to the Big Buddha is a must for a panoramic view of the island. The surrounding waters of Phuket, particularly the Phi Phi Islands and Similan Islands, are a paradise for divers and snorkelers, boasting vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.

Phuket’s nightlife, especially in Patong, pulsates with energy, offering many entertainment options. The island’s diversity, from its natural beauty to cultural richness, makes Phuket a microcosm of Thailand’s allure.

Insider’s Tip: Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands for some of the best snorkeling and diving.

How To Get There: Phuket is accessible by its international airport or by bus and ferry from the mainland.

Best Time To Travel: The best weather is from November to February, with calm seas and sunny skies.

4. Ayutthaya

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, stands today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a journey through Thailand’s storied past. As you wander through the historical park, you’ll encounter the ruins of temples and palaces, each telling a tale of the city’s former glory and subsequent destruction.

The site’s most iconic structures, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, showcase the sophisticated art and architecture of the Ayutthaya period. Exploring Ayutthaya is not just a historical excursion; it’s an immersive experience that transports you back to when the city was a major trading hub of Asia.

The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against a backdrop of modern life underscores the enduring legacy of Ayutthaya’s historical and cultural significance in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

How To Get There: Ayutthaya is a short train or bus ride from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable exploring conditions.

In Krabi Province, you’ll find yourself amidst some of Thailand’s most picturesque landscapes, marked by dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters. The province is renowned for destinations like Railay Beach, which is accessible only by boat. It offers world-class rock climbing and stunning beachscapes.

The Phi Phi Islands, with their iconic beaches and vibrant marine life, are perfect for day trips, offering opportunities for snorkeling and diving. For a more tranquil experience, the lesser-known Koh Lanta provides a laid-back atmosphere with its long, sandy beaches. Krabi’s natural beauty extends beyond its coastline, with inland attractions like the Emerald Pool and the Tiger Cave Temple, each offering unique experiences.

Whether you’re seeking adventure on the cliffs of Railay or tranquility on the beaches of Koh Lanta, Krabi presents a diverse array of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the mangroves and limestone caves by kayak for a unique perspective.

How To Get There: Krabi has an airport, and it’s also accessible by bus and boat from other parts of Thailand.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to March for the best beach weather.

Pai, nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With its relaxed atmosphere, this small town attracts travelers looking to escape the hustle of city life. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, Pai is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring hot springs.

The Pai Canyon offers stunning views, especially at sunset, and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The town’s charming cafes, night markets, and art galleries reflect a unique blend of local Thai culture and bohemian influences.

Renting a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside is a popular way to discover the area’s hidden gems, but be cautious on the winding roads. Pai’s natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and cultural richness make it a refreshing stop in your Thailand journey.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside, but be cautious on the winding roads.

How To Get There: Pai is accessible by bus from Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, particularly from October to February, is ideal for comfortable temperatures.

7. Sukhothai

Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand, is where Thai art, architecture, and language began to develop and flourish. The Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an archaeological delight with well-preserved ruins and majestic Buddha statues set amidst scenic lakes and gardens.

Exploring this ancient city on a bicycle offers a leisurely and intimate experience of the park’s vast grounds. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, with its impressive central stupa, and Wat Si Chum, known for its gigantic seated Buddha.

The historical significance of Sukhothai, coupled with its serene and picturesque setting, provides a profound insight into the origins of Thai culture and the nation’s early history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Loy Krathong festival in November, when the park is beautifully lit with lanterns.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season is the best time to visit, especially around the Loy Krathong festival.

Hua Hin, once a quiet fishing village and now a popular beach resort town, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the summer palace of the Thai royal family, Hua Hin exudes an air of sophistication and tranquility.

The night markets in Hua Hin, particularly the Cicada Market, are great for experiencing local crafts and cuisine. Nearby natural attractions like Sam Roi Yot National Park, with its limestone mountains and mangrove forests, provide opportunities for nature exploration.

Hua Hin’s combination of beachside leisure, royal heritage, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more laid-back experience in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood at the night market, known for its freshness and variety.

How To Get There: Hua Hin is about a three-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by train.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for the best beach weather and fewer rain showers.

9. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and its World War II history, offers a poignant reminder of the past, set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery. The Death Railway, war cemeteries, and museums provide a deep understanding of the region’s wartime history.

Beyond its historical significance, Kanchanaburi is also home to beautiful national parks like Erawan and Sai Yok, offering trekking, waterfalls, and river rafting. The province’s blend of history and natural beauty provides a multifaceted experience, making it a destination that appeals to history buffs and nature lovers.

Insider’s Tip: Take a train ride on the Death Railway for a scenic and historical journey.

How To Get There: Kanchanaburi is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool and dry season from November to February is ideal for exploring and outdoor activities.

10. The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, offers a unique cultural and geographical experience. This area, once notorious for its opium production, now provides insights into the region’s history with attractions like the Hall of Opium Museum.

A boat ride on the Mekong River is a serene way to experience the beauty of this area and the confluence of the three countries. The ancient city of Chiang Saen nearby, with its ruins and temples, adds a historical dimension to your visit. The Golden Triangle’s cultural influences and stunning landscapes make it a fascinating destination in Northern Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: For a panoramic view of the three countries, visit the viewpoint at Wat Phra That Pu Khao.

How To Get There: The Golden Triangle is accessible by bus or car from Chiang Rai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable weather for exploring.

11. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea are a pristine archipelago renowned for their exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. These islands, part of a protected national park, boast some of the clearest waters in Thailand, with visibility often extending up to 30 meters.

The underwater landscape of coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and a myriad of colorful fish species. Above water, the islands are equally stunning, with powdery white sand beaches and lush tropical forests. The Similan Islands are perfect for a retreat for anyone seeking unspoiled natural beauty.

Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or simply relaxing on a secluded beach, the Similans offer a tranquil escape from the world, where nature’s wonders are on full display.

Insider’s Tip: Book a liveaboard diving trip for an immersive experience in the islands’ underwater world.

How To Get There: The Similan Islands are accessible by boat from Khao Lak or Phuket.

Best Time To Travel: The diving season runs from November to April, with the best conditions from February to April.

12. The Isaan Region

The Isaan region, located in northeastern Thailand, is a land steeped in tradition and history, offering a stark contrast to the country’s more tourist-centric areas. This region is the heartland of Thai culture, where ancient customs and lifestyles are preserved. Isaan’s rural landscapes, dotted with rice paddies and traditional villages, provide a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

The region is also home to some of Thailand’s most significant archaeological sites, including the prehistoric Ban Chiang and the Khmer ruins of Phanom Rung. Isaan’s cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spiciness, is a highlight, with dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) being local staples

A journey through Isaan is a journey through the soul of Thailand, where the richness of the country’s heritage and the warmth of its people are palpable in every experience.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) for an authentic taste of Isaan.

How To Get There: Isaan is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok, or by plane to regional airports like Udon Thani.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, from November to February, for comfortable travel conditions.

13. Koh Samui

Koh Samui, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise combining natural beauty, luxury, and relaxation. The island is renowned for its idyllic beaches, such as Chaweng and Lamai, which offer crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. Beyond its stunning coastline, Koh Samui has various attractions, from the majestic Big Buddha statue to the enchanting Na Muang Waterfalls.

The island’s interior is a lush landscape of coconut groves and rainforests, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring. Koh Samui’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional Thai flavors and international cuisine, with a plethora of dining options ranging from beachside shacks to upscale restaurants.

The island’s vibrant nightlife, centered around Chaweng Beach, provides entertainment well into the early hours. Koh Samui caters to all types of travelers seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a luxurious retreat.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park for stunning landscapes and snorkeling opportunities.

How To Get There: Koh Samui has an airport with flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and international destinations.

Best Time To Travel: The best time to visit is from December to February, with dry weather and calm seas.

14. Railay Beach

Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, is a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots. This peninsula, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and pristine beaches, is a haven for rock climbers and beachgoers.

The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking, while the viewpoints and caves provide opportunities for exploration. Railay maintains a laid-back atmosphere, with a small selection of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation in a tranquil setting.

Insider’s Tip: Take a rock climbing course if you’re a beginner to safely enjoy the sport under expert guidance.

How To Get There: Railay Beach is accessible by boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the weather is dry, and the seas are calm.

15. Udon Thani and the Red Lotus Sea

Udon Thani, a vibrant city in Thailand’s northeastern region, is the gateway to the mesmerizing Red Lotus Sea (Lake Nong Han). It’s best visited in the cool season, as it transforms into a breathtaking expanse of pink and red lotuses stretching as far as the eye can see. A boat ride through the serene waters, dotted with these vibrant blooms, offers a truly unique and tranquil experience.

Beyond the lake, Udon Thani boasts a rich cultural heritage, with various temples, museums, and markets reflecting the local Isan culture. The Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Udon Thani, provides fascinating insights into the region’s ancient history.

This area’s blend of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a compelling destination for those exploring beyond Thailand’s typical tourist paths.

Insider’s Tip: Visit early in the morning when the lotuses are fully bloomed and the lake is less crowded.

How To Get There: Udon Thani is accessible by plane from Bangkok, and the Red Lotus Sea is a short drive from the city.

Best Time To Travel: The lotuses bloom from December to February, making it the ideal time to visit.

16. The Ancient City of Sukhothai

The ancient city of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a journey back in time to the roots of Thai civilization. As the first capital of Thailand, it holds a special place in the nation’s history. The Sukhothai Historical Park, with its well-preserved ruins set amidst lush greenery and tranquil ponds, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom.

Exploring the park, you’ll encounter majestic Buddha figures, towering stupas, and intricate carvings, all evocative of the city’s past splendor. Cycling through the park’s vast grounds allows for an intimate exploration of its numerous sites, including Wat Mahathat, the park’s largest temple, and Wat Si Chum, famous for its gigantic seated Buddha. A visit to Sukhothai immerses ancient Thailand’s artistic and spiritual legacy.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the extensive grounds of the historical park at your own pace.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok, and the historical park is a short ride from the city center.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February offers pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins.

17. The Floating Markets Near Bangkok

The floating markets near Bangkok, such as Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, offer a vibrant and colorful glimpse into traditional Thai life. These bustling waterways, lined with boats laden with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts, present a lively and picturesque scene.

A visit to these markets is a sensory experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of authentic Thai commerce and cuisine. Damnoen Saduak, the most famous of these markets, provides a more tourist-focused experience, while Amphawa offers a more local atmosphere and is primarily known for its evening seafood vendors.

Exploring these floating markets by boat or along the canalside walkways is a unique way to experience the local culture and indulge in some of Thailand’s most delicious foods and charming souvenirs.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat tour to fully experience the market and try local snacks from the floating vendors.

How To Get There: The floating markets are accessible by bus or organized tours from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.

18. Erawan National Park and Waterfalls

Erawan National Park, located in the Kanchanaburi Province, is a natural oasis known for its stunning seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology. Each tier of the waterfall offers a different shape and character, with natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.

The park’s lush forests are home to plentiful wildlife and provide numerous hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the waterfalls, the park’s caves, such as Tham Phra That and Tham Ta Duang, offer further exploration opportunities.

Visiting Erawan National Park is a chance to witness one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls and connect with the country’s rich natural landscapes.

Insider’s Tip: Bring swimwear and trek to the upper tiers of the waterfall for a more secluded and serene experience.

How To Get There: The park is located in Kanchanaburi Province and is accessible by bus or car from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the water levels are ideal for swimming and the trails are dry.

19. Pattaya

Pattaya, once a quiet fishing village and now a bustling coastal city, is known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and many tourist attractions. While Pattaya’s reputation is often tied to its entertainment and nightlife, the city offers much more. The Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning all-wood structure filled with intricate carvings, highlights traditional Thai craftsmanship.

For nature lovers, Pattaya offers the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, a beautifully landscaped park with themed gardens and cultural shows. The nearby Coral Island (Koh Larn) provides a quick escape to quieter beaches and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and water sports. Pattaya’s diverse offerings make it a destination that caters to various interests, from cultural exploration to beachside relaxation.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Pattaya Floating Market for a cultural experience and to sample local Thai dishes.

How To Get There: Pattaya is a two-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by bus or taxi.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for pleasant weather and to avoid the rainy season.

20. The Hill Tribes of Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand’s hill tribes offer a unique cultural experience, distinct from the rest of the country. These ethnic groups, including the Karen, Hmong, Akha, and Lisu, each have their own customs, languages, and traditional dress. Visiting these hill tribe villages, often nestled in the picturesque mountains and valleys of the region, provides insight into their traditional ways of life, which remain largely untouched by modernization.

Responsible and respectful tourism is key when visiting these communities. Many villages welcome visitors to learn about their culture, participate in traditional crafts, and even stay overnight for a more immersive experience. Engaging with the hill tribes of Northern Thailand offers a deeper understanding of the country’s ethnic diversity and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a community-based tourism program that benefits the tribes directly and respects their culture.

How To Get There: Hill tribe villages are accessible from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, often as part of guided tours.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, is comfortable for visiting the highland areas.

The Bottom Line

Thailand’s magic lies in its diversity – from bustling cities and ancient ruins to serene beaches and lush jungles. As you explore this enchanting country, embrace its history, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Remember, Thailand offers an experience beyond the ordinary, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

While exploring Thailand, take the time to learn a few phrases in Thai. A simple “hello” (sawasdee) or “thank you” (khob khun) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and enhancing your travel experience.

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The post Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pikoso.kz.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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