thailand 15 days trip cost

15 days trip to Thailand: a great route for first-timers

Today I’m going to tell you about one of the best 15 days trip to Thailand you can do , very popular since it visits most of the country’s highlights.

This route that I designed a few years ago, passes through authentic paradises and places full of endearing cultural treasures, ranging from Bangkok to Thailand’s far north.

On this route we suggest you fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, an option that will save you many hours on the road… But there is a toll that you’ll have to pay: you’ll miss Sukhothai . To make up for it, one of the highlights of this route is the ruins of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, which are in fact quite similar to the ruins of Sukhothai.

If you wish, you can organize the trip yourself using the information I provide in this article, although if you want an easier option you can hire our services and we will organize the trip for you.

→ Do you want to get some inspiration about which destinations to choose on your first trip? See our article 45 Drone Photos of Thailand .

We visit: BANGKOK ● AYUTTHAYA ● CHIANG RAI ● GOLDEN TRIANGLE ● CHIANG MAI ● BEACH

Type of trip: On your own by public transport, or by agency

15 days itinerary in Thailand

If you’re wondering what to see in Thailand in 15 days , this is a great itinerary:

• Day 1 . Departure from your country – Flight to Bangkok.
• Day 2 . Bangkok – Arrival in Thailand.
• Day 3-4 . Visit Bangkok.
• Day 5. Bangkok – 80 KM – Visit Ayutthaya – 55 KM – Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Flight to Chiang Rai.
• Day 6 . Chiang Rai – Visit the Golden Triangle (70 KM each way).
• Day 7 . Chiang Rai – White Temple –185 KM – Chiang Mai.
• Days 8-9 . Visit Chiang Mai.
• Day 10 . Chiang Mai – Flight to a Beach destination.
• Days 11-12-13-14 . Beach destination of your choice.
• Day 15 . Flight back home.

In the following map you can see the first part of the trip, without the beach part:

▷ Are you looking for a longer itinerary? Have a look at this 25 days to Undiscovered Thailand .

Details about the 15 days trip to Thailand

Day 1 : depart your country – flight to bangkok.

The first step of the journey, of course, will be to get to Thailand. Have you already booked your flight?

What do I need to know before booking my flight to Thailand?

Finding a flight to Thailand is easy . Nowadays, there are maney airlines that connect Bangkok with the rest of the world, and using one of the many online flight search engines is not that hard to find good deals. We refer to portals such as eDreams or Skyscanner , where you will see many connecting flight options from your nearest airport to Bangkok.

Which airport should you fly to to travel to Thailand?

The most common option, although not the only one, is landing in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Bangkok has two airports:

✈️ Suvarnabhumi Airport (IATA code BKK).

✈️ Don Mueang Airport (IATA code DMK).

You can land at either of these two airports, as they are the same distance from the city center, but it is far more common to land at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), as it is the newest and has many more international connections.

If you fly from a European country , you can take a direct flight from many European airports, such as Paris, Zurich, Frankfurt, Amsterdam or Helsinki, or make a stopover in them. Or you can make a stopover in the Middle East, Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha. The trip is usually between 12 and 20 hours, depending on the point of departure and the length of the stopover.

On the outbound flight from Europe you miss a day, so if you leave on January 10, you will arrive on the 11th.

🗨️ My opinion on the flight to Thailand

I have traveled the Barcelona-Bangkok route many times , stopping over at many different airports, and personally I prefer to fly at night . If, like me, you are one of those who has no problem falling asleep in a small seat on a long flight, I recommend taking a night flight, and, in case your itinerary has a layover, at least for the longest flight.

If you fly from Europe and don’t want to spend so many uninterrupted hours on a plane, you can check the option of flying via Doha ( Qatar Airways ), Dubai ( Emirates ) or Abu Dhabi ( Etihad Airways ) as it will split the flight time into two sections of similar duration (about 5-7 hours each, depending on your airports of origin and stopover).

Day 2 : Bangkok – Arrival

What do i need to know upon arrival.

Well in advance before your travel, you must check Thai immigration requirements based on your passport nationality.

Once you land, you will need to go through the immigration process, collect your luggage, and then you can exchange EUR/USD/GBP to THB at the airport before taking a taxi, bus or sky train to your hotel.

If you decide to travel with us, we will be waiting for you at the Arrivals Hall holding a little welcome board with your name.

Day 3-4 : Visit Bangkok

There are endless options of what to see in Thailand in 15 days. Bangkok will be your first stop. The capital of Thailand is a fascinating megalopolis , where tradition and modernity go hand in hand.

You can’t miss visiting its main temples, strolling through its vibrant street markets and enjoying the famous Bangkok nightlife. Spend at least a couple of days in the city!

After more than 10 years living in Bangkok , I think the most important things to see if visiting for the first time are:

► The temples of Bangkok.

► Floating markets and night markets.

► Skyscrapers with views.

→ You can start discovering everything the city has to offer in our section on Bangkok .

Day 5 : Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Chiang Rai

The itinerary for this fourth day will be as follows:

• Bangkok – Ayutthaya (80 km.).
• Ayutthaya Temples visit.
• Ayutthaya – Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport – DMK (55 km.).
• Flight to Chiang Rai.

Ayutthaya is one of the ancient capitals of the kingdom of Siam , where the remains of its original temples are preserved, some ruins in a better state of conservation than others, but always spectacular. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , a truly fascinating and very photogenic place. Every time I go to Ayutthaya I can’t help but take hundreds of photos .

Ayutthaya is located 80 kms north of Bangkok .

🚌 How to go to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?

You can visit Ayutthaya on your own from Bangkok by bus or train , and after visiting the city, you can take another bus or taxi to Bangkok’s DMK airport to fly to Chiang Rai.

You will find much more info in our Ayutthaya section. You can also visit Ayutthaya by joining our regular day trips at InThailand Travel , we do one almost every day.

🧳 When visiting Ayutthaya, should I bring my suitcase/backpack?

Ideally, we suggest you to visit Ayutthaya with your suitcase/backpack, and then go directly to Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to fly to Chiang rai. This airport is located between Bangkok and Ayutthaya, so you will not have to re-enter the capital of Thailand, avoiding its nightmarish traffic jams.

This is how we organize it for our travelers. But if you visit Ayutthaya on your own as a day trip, of course, you will not want to carry your full luggage while visiting the city temples, so it is better to leave it at your hotel in Bangkok. You can either fly to Chiang Rai the next day , or book a flight on the same day that departs as late as possible.

Day 6 : Chiang Rai

On your 15 days route in Thailand, a visit to Chiang Rai province should not be missed . The itinerary that we suggest is the following:

• Golden Triangle – Tea plantation – Boat on the Mekong (70 km each way).

Located in the far north of Thailand, Chiang Rai is home to the famous White Temple, and gives access to the Golden Triangle region .

Chiang Rai is also a good area in which to trek through the jungle and among rice fields , and to get to know some ethnic minority villages.

The Golden Triangle is the area where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet, with the Mekong River as a natural border . You can take a boat trip on the Mekong river, visit the Mae Sai market, visit one of the opium museums, and visit some of the local tea plantations.

Visiting of the Golden Triangle and other attractions in Chiang Rai province can be done on your own by renting a car or motorcycle , or by joining an agency tour.

Day 7 : Chiang Rai – White Temple – Chiang Mai

The route on this sixth day will be:

• Chiang Rai – White Temple – Chiang Mai (a 185 km.)

🚌 How to go to Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai?

Transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai can be easily done by bus . The Green Bus company is the best option if you travel on your own, and you can book the ticket on their website.

If you make the journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai in the afternoon, you will have the whole morning to visit the famous White Temple , if you haven’t already. The White Temple is only 15 km south of Chiang Rai, and you can get there by renting a motorcycle or by tuk-tuk . Its innovative and quite surreal style has made it one of the most famous temples in all of Thailand in just a few years.

Days 8-9 : Visit Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the capital of the ancient Lanna kingdom, has a beautiful old town surrounded by a moat and some of its old (rebuilt) walls. There are many temples and alleys that invite to spend the day wandering around. At night, it is always a good idea to visit the busy Night Market area, and if you are there on a Sunday, you should not miss the Night Market that is set up along the main street in the historic center, one of the most beautiful night markets in Southeast Asia .

Chiang Mai is my favorite city in Thailand . If you go for the first time, you should definitely spend some time visiting the main temples. Three of the ones you shouldn’t miss are:

► Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

► Wat Phra Singh

► Wat Chedi Luang

In addition to being a truly beautiful city, the quiet capital of Northern Thailand is an excellent base camp for excursions , such as visiting Doi Inthanon National Park or going on a hike. When planning what to see in Thailand in 15 days, we recommend spending at least a couple of days to Chiang Mai.

→ You may be interested in knowing the best things to do in Chiang Mai .

Day 10 : Chiang Mai – Flight to the Beach

From Chiang Mai you have direct flights to Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui, among other beach destinations. That is why we recommend going first to Chiang Rai (which has no air connections to the South), and then to Chiang Mai .

Which beach destination to choose will depend on your preferences . If you are worried about the weather, this article on the climate of Thailand will help you choose.

Days 11-12-13-14 : Beach

There are plenty of good beach and island options in Thailand , so it can be difficult to decide on one of them. When making the choice, it is a good idea to take the weather into account, depending on the season when you are traveling in.

Two of the most recommended options are Krabi and Phuket , both in the same region of the Andaman Sea , which have the advantage of offering a very good tourist infrastructure. And, at the same time, are an excellent base camp from which to explore the beaches and islands of the region, including some of the most spectacular in all of Thailand, such as the Phi Phi islands and Railay Bay. From Chiang Mai you have direct flights to both Phuket and Krabi with different airlines, including the low-cost Air Asia .

Another good option is to fly to Koh Samui and visit one of the main islands in the Gulf of Thailand : Koh Samui , Koh Phangan and Koh Tao , all three very different from each other but highly recommended.

🗨️ My opinion

Personally, I am a huge fan of Krabi, a destination that I have been to many times , since it offers the possibility of visiting many islands with spectacular beaches.

If you want some more ideas of great beaches, have a look at our aticle of the best 25 beaches in Thailand .

Day 15 : Flight back home

By now it will be time to say goodbye to Thailand , satisfied after having visited a good selection of the most recommended places for a first trip to Thailand. And almost certainly eager to return as soon as possible to continue discovering new corners of this country that you’re very likely to fall in love with.

You can also do this route through the north of Thailand in 10 days, and then skip the beach. But, without a doubt, with 15 days you can get the most out of the country. And even better if you can afford to add some extra days! At InThailand Travel we offer a version of this 15-day trip to Thailand, although our routes are 100% customizable. 🇹🇭

Author of ‘Laos, a cultural guide’, a very complete Spanish book about the culture, history and society of Laos. Jordi, from Barcelona, traveled to the region for the first time in the 1990s, and since then has worked as a blogger, tour leader and travel designer for Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

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Discover Thailand with us!

Tailor made travel packages around thailand designed by our local travel experts.

• Travel Planning Guide

Thailand Travel Budget - Visit Thailand on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Thailand Costs

• Is Thailand Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Thailand cost?
• Thailand On-Your-Own Itineraries
• Northern Thailand
• Southern Thailand
• Thailand Hotel Prices
• Thailand Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
• Best Luxury Hotels in Thailand
• Best Party Hotels in Thailand
• Best Beach Hotels in Thailand
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Thailand
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
• Best Cheap Hotels in Thailand
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Thailand
• Best Hotels for One Night in Thailand
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Thailand
• Best Hotels for One Week in Thailand
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Thailand
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Thailand
• Best Business Hotels in Thailand
• Where Do Backpackers Go in Thailand? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• Thailand Activities
• Thailand Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand
• The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand
• The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand
• The Best Historical Tours in Thailand
• The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand
• The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand
• The Best 3-Day Tours in Thailand
• The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand
• The Best 3-Week Tours in Thailand
• The Best Extended Trip Tours in Thailand, One Month or Longer
• The Best River Cruises in Thailand
• The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand
• Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Thailand
• The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand
• The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand
• The Best Eco Tours in Thailand
• The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Thailand
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand
• The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand
• The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Thailand
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• The Tours for Animal Lovers in Thailand
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• The Best Budget Safaris in Thailand
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• The Best Honeymoon Tours in Thailand
• The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand
• The Best Luxury Tours to Thailand
• The Best Budget Tours to Thailand
• The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand
• The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand
• The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand
• Koh Phi Phi
• Koh Pha Ngan
• How much does it cost to travel to Thailand? (Average Daily Cost)
• Thailand trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Thailand?

Is thailand expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Thailand?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Thailand?

You should plan to spend around $86 (฿2,981) per day on your vacation in Thailand. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $18 (฿611) on meals
• $13 (฿442) on local transportation
• $74 (฿2,560) on hotels

A one week trip to Thailand for two people costs, on average, $1,205 (฿41,731) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 86 ฿ 2,981
• One Week Per person $ 602 ฿ 20,866
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,205 ฿ 41,731
• One Month Per person $ 2,582 ฿ 89,424
• One Week For a couple $ 1,205 ฿ 41,731
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,410 ฿ 83,463
• One Month For a couple $ 5,164 ฿ 178,848

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Thailand cost?

A one week trip to Thailand usually costs around $602 (฿20,866) for one person and $1,205 (฿41,731) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Thailand on average costs around $1,205 (฿41,731) for one person and $2,410 (฿83,463) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Thailand will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Thailand on average costs around $2,582 (฿89,424) for one person and $5,164 (฿178,848) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Thailand is $183 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Backpacking Thailand (21 days) 21 Days - 9 Destinations $ 2,454
• Discovery Thailand The Golden Chersonese 15 Days - 14 Destinations $ 3,700

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Thailand is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability . If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Thailand is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to China or Malaysia.

For more details, see Is Thailand Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Thailand?

The average Thailand trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Thailand travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Thailand

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Thailand is $37 (฿1,280). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Thailand is $74 (฿2,560). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 37 ฿ 1,280
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 74 ฿ 2,560

Hotel Prices in Thailand

Looking for a hotel in Thailand? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Thailand based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $33. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Phurapee Pakchong Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 110
• Chinoiserie Collection Resort & Spa Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 119

Local Transportation Budget in Thailand

The cost of a taxi ride in Thailand is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $13 (฿442) per person, per day, on local transportation in Thailand.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 13 ฿ 442

Recommended Services

• Khao Lak Transfer - Airport to Hotels Transfers - Taxi Services Viator $ 80
• Private Transfer from Bangkok Airport/City to Hua Hin Viator $ 84

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Trains to airport ฿ 160
• Bus to White Temple ฿ 40
• River Ferry Crossing ฿ 20
• Minibus- Airport to Chaweng ฿ 120
• Taxi- Na Thon Pier to Lamai Beach ฿ 420
• Airport Taxi ฿ 440
• Gas for Scooter ฿ 110
• Longboat Taxi from Town ฿ 200

Food Budget in Thailand

While meal prices in Thailand can vary, the average cost of food in Thailand is $18 (฿611) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Thailand should cost around $7.05 (฿244) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Thailand is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 18 ฿ 611

Recommended

• Benny's Home Cooking Chiang Mai Viator $ 48
• Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class Viator $ 62

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch for 2 ฿ 742
• Airport Lunch for 2 ฿ 550
• Breakfast for 2 ฿ 350
• Ice Cream ฿ 30
• Lunch for 2 ฿ 140
• Breakfast for 2 ฿ 140
• Casual Lunch (for Two) ฿ 215
• Pancake ฿ 70

Entertainment Budget in Thailand

Entertainment and activities in Thailand typically cost an average of $19 (฿673) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 19 ฿ 673

Recommended Activities

• Phang Nga Bay Canoeing Adventure & James Bond Island by Big Boat Viator $ 106
• From Bangkok : Kanchanaburi Tour with Floating market Visit Viator $ 163

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Siriraj Museum (2) ฿ 400
• Wat Pho entrance ticket ฿ 100
• Fish Pedicure ฿ 150
• Kayak and Snorkel (2) ฿ 100
• Wat Entrance ฿ 50
• Temple Entrances (2) ฿ 200
• Club Cover Charge ฿ 375
• Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two) ฿ 2,400

Tips and Handouts Budget in Thailand

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Thailand is $3.88 (฿135) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Thailand is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 3.88 ฿ 135

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Thailand

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Thailand is $39 (฿1,338), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 39 ฿ 1,338

Alcohol Budget in Thailand

The average person spends about $8.98 (฿311) on alcoholic beverages in Thailand per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 8.98 ฿ 311
• Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure Viator $ 27
• Railay Pub Crawl Viator $ 15

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Drinks at Irish Pub (for Two) ฿ 260
• Cocktails (for Two) ฿ 300
• Beer ฿ 90
• Beer ฿ 65
• Bottle of Wine ฿ 370
• Beer (2) ฿ 140
• Banana Daiquiri ฿ 200
• Mojito Bucket ฿ 500

Water Budget in Thailand

On average, people spend $1.41 (฿49) on bottled water in Thailand per day. The public water in Thailand is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.41 ฿ 49

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Thailand.

How can you save money during your time in Thailand?

We wanted a different experience than your typical beach vacation in Thailand, so we went to the less touristy areas which were far cheaper.

Thailand isn't a cheap as it used to be when we visited years ago, but it's still possible to save money by avoiding the big resorts, taking the local buses, and choosing your destinations wisely.

We were a bit overwhelmed by how touristy Thailand was after some of the other places we've visited. This makes it harder to save money because prices are higher for tourists. Head north from Bangkok and explore those parts of the country, which are much cheaper than the south.

Are you an experienced traveler? Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. + Add Comment

Related Articles

Thailand on a budget.

At A Glance

• Because Thailand is one of the more touristy countries in Southeast Asia, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the crowds and the hassle. If you find yourself getting a little frustrated, head to the northern parts of the country where the atmosphere is more relaxed and mellow. The highlands are beautiful and you can have a wonderful cultural experience at a far more affordable price.
• The food in Thailand is absolutely delicious. It is generally served quite spicy and can overwhelm many people's palates. If you're hoping for a milder variety of a specific dish, ask for it with "no spice." While many locals don't understand the word mild, they do understand "no spice." They usually abide by these instructions, but not always.
• If you're really enjoying the food in Thailand then consider taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai. These classes often last a full day and they are loads of fun. The teachers keep the classes light and humorous and the food provides a full days worth of meals. You can often arrange classes through your hotel or a local travel agency.
• Many people use VIP buses to travel around Thailand. These buses are decent in quality but the connections are often poorly thought out and inconvenient. Once a booking agent has your money you are really at their mercy. Consider finding the local bus station and traveling with public buses which are far cheaper and often times more convenient.
• There are many popular beaches in Thailand with some of the most famous being on Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui. If you're looking for a more remote and peaceful experience look into any of the national parks around the country. Some have cabins available where you can camp and others have tents available for rent.

Top Tourist Attractions

Popular foods, more related articles.

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

Thailand Trip Costs 2023 – How Much

Will it cost per day.

Thailand trip costs are going to vary quite a lot in terms of the place or places you’re planning to stay and various other factors….

There are so many variables in regards to the person (do you booze and party…or have a glass of wine with a meal?), places (cities more options – Islands less), visiting various places or primarily one, and many others that it’s tricky to give an exact amount of travel expenditure required, but an estimate always helps.

I thought it best to keep it simple and then include within other articles more specifics based on destinations and touristic things to do. Whatever your plan there are always great options and value for all budget types in Thailand – from the backpacker to those wishing to have an extravagant holiday.

Three weeks is probably the most common amount of time tourists spend in Thailand that I have met and makes sense in terms of seeing, doing, and relaxing plenty after and before returning on a long-haul flight.

Budgets based on three weeks it is then!

All figures will be in USD as it’s the most stable and common currency, at the moment. 100 THB is around 3 USD and 1000 THB – 30 USD which is approximate based on rounding it off and today’s exchange.

Alcohol & Cigarettes- Partying & Ladies

For some visitors to Thailand there primary purpose is to enjoy drinking, partying or the lady bar scene. If that’s the plan Stan then Thailand surely provides the right setting and conditions to fulfill this purpose in style. This is a separate budget on it’s own, and the sky is the limit on what cash can leave your wallet….and it can leave in abundance.

Alcohol Costs

• Wine: Wine is expensive usually as it’s imported, a bottle 1200 THB (36 USD) + or 250 THB (7.5 USD) + a glass.
• Beer: Anything from 80 – 150 THB (2.5 – 4.5 USD) for small bottles of local beer (i.e., Leo, Singha, Tiger, and a couple of others).
• Spirits & Cocktails: From 80 – 300 THB (2.5 – 9 USD) a glass. If you’re going out to nightclubs it pays to order a bottle and just pay for mixers if there is a group of you. At some places especially the beer gardens you can take your own bottle or buy theirs and order mixers and ice (check for corkage charge though).

A quick mention about cigarettes…they’re cheap as chips. Approx 40 – 120 THB (1 – 4 USD).

Nightclubs require an entrance fee that differs for each venue and you might find offers may be available. If you’re a boozer and on a budget the nightclubs are going to sting you for cash that are worth avoiding or at least limiting. Even mixers are expensive so there’s no way of budgeting.

For those sensible people that drink 2 or 3 drinks and dance for a couple of hours or so then you can get away with spending about 1000 THB (30 USD).

GoGo and Lady Bars

Drinks are more expensive in the lady bars and it’s polite to buy a hostess a drink (an extra 100 THB on top of the normal price), but you don’t have to buy drinks for hostesses unless you wish. Many of them will ring you dry if possible. Happy hours are the best times to go to save on cash.

Drink costs for small bottles of local beer and spirits are anything from 80 – 250 THB (2.5 – 7.5 USD) and buying a bar girl a drink will cost you about 160 – 350 THB (5 – 10 USD).

Guys taking a lady out for the night from the bar will cost them a bar fine (charge for the lady not continuing to work that night) of 300 – 700 THB (7.5 – 21 USD). The lady in question has her evening charge for her company which could be anything from 1500 – 2500 THB + (45 – 90 USD).

You were told Thailand is cheap to booze right? Not so, but some places are still reasonably priced. If you’re a happy hour person you’ll save quite a few baht. Visiting beer gardens is also budget-friendly.

I can drop most of the dollar converting out now….you’ve probably got the idea if you’ve followed so far.

Food, Rehydration & Eating Out Budget

In Thailand, you can buy a meal from 45 THB – 500 THB +. Really good deals on the food in Thailand. Even fine dining and 5-star buffets can still be value for money compared to the UK, my home country, Europe, and beyond.

Three meals a day, rehydration drinks and snacks are going to cost around….

• Low budget backpacker 400 THB or less.
• Budget friendly but still not too tight 600 THB +/-.
• Mid range 600 THB and above.

For a budget day without being tight you can still spend 100 THB for breakfast, 100 THB for lunch, 250 THB for an evening meal, and 150 THB for rehydration and cheap snacks, totaling 600 THB for the day. Take advantage of the street stalls selling fruit, coconut water, sweetcorn, and other great healthy snacks that are cheap.

Of course, you could eat three 45 THB meals a day, have a couple of snacks and bottles of water which may cost a person 200 THB, but it’s not most people’s idea of a fun holiday.

Hotels, Guesthouse & Resort Costs

Backpacker & Budget: Hostels and guesthouses are the main option that attracts those on a tighter budget. The hostels have dorms like many other countries. Dorms cost from as little as 100 – 350 THB. Budget room with a fan only and shared bathroom 300 – 600 THB. Budget room with air con 600 – 900 THB.

Budget to Mid Range: Hotels within the price range of 900 – 1500 THB. Once you get over the 1000 baht mark rooms become much nicer and the facilities. Around 1300 THB I have found great places to stay without breaking the bank.

Mid Range: Mid-range of 1300 – 3000 THB is the best option for most people for a good room and facilities. Really nice and peaceful resorts start to become available after the 1800 THB level.

Top Range: From 3000 ++. The resort and hotel world of Thailand is your oyster.

Most places in Thailand have lush and lavish accommodation options at reasonable rates, great mid range hotels at good rates and super budget friendly shacks and guesthouses or dorms. It really is open to all budgets.

Transportation Costs

Transport costs are fairly cheap across the board in Thailand, although there are differences in various places. Every place has their own main modes of transport and options.

Taxis, motorbike taxis, tuk tuks, songthaews, buses, or the Bangkok subway (MRT) and skytrain (BTS) will cost anything from 10 THB – 300 THB, although certain places and situations could cost a bit more (always research the place and route you’re taking). More about transport in Thailand here.

Examples of Transport Costs

You can use the below examples as a good transport estimated guide if traveling a bit further south to Krabi or Phuket and other places. Other islands like Samui cost more, although there are other options (e.g. fly Bangkok – Surat Thani then Bus then Boat) you may consider.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

• Flight: Minimum 85 USD with hand luggage only and 150 USD return flight with 20 KG checked baggage. The domestic flights all have baggage restrictions (Bangkok Airways allows 32 KG) and costs that you must check before booking.
• Train: Second class overnight train 1050 THB each way. There are many other train ticket options to Chiang Mai but the overnight is popular. More about Thailand trains here .
• Bus/Coach: The long 10 hour journey to Chiang Mai on the bus costs around 450 THB.

Add a bit more on top for transport costs to and from airports or other transportation hubs.

Boat Trips & Island Hopping

There are many boat trips and island hopping options in Thailand and different costs, with speed boat trips and better services costing more. Approx costs 700 – 2500 + THB.

Activities & Sightseeing

Activities and sightseeing can bump up costs and they’re not always that revealing at first to the budget plan. Visiting temples in Bangkok or any other tourist attractions will stick another 100 – 500 + THB on the days budget, for entrance fees.

If you like your jet skiing, banana boating, paragliding, snorkeling, or diving…….or any other water, air or land sports then you will need to add an extra 500 – 2500 THB + for each activity.

Gifts & Shopping

Buying gifts for others and personal shopping is the same as shopping anywhere else in the world. including our home countries. You can buy cheap or expensive gifts in Thailand and it’s particularly good for those that buy copies. In terms of clothing and other brand stuff buying back home in the UK is much cheaper, but the duty free is good.

You will need to add to your spending budget the amount you’re willing to spend on shopping as there are too many variables to give anyone a reasonable clue to how much it’s going to cost.

Three Week Trip – 21 Day Guides

This is a basic guide for three budget levels. Budget, budget with some luxuries and closer to mid-range or above. These exclude alcohol, partying, shopping and smokes.

Accommodation 10’000 THB – 300 USD

Food – Eating Out 8400 THB – 250 USD

Transport 9000 THB – 270 USD Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Bangkok + Bangkok – Phuket (train and bus) + boat trip – Bangkok + local transport estimates

Activities/Sightseeing 5000 THB – 150 USD  

Total 32’200 THB – 972 USD Now you will need to add as required alcohol, nightlife, cigarettes, and any gift shopping that you may need. This is fairly budgety on the food front that you may need to increase if you wish to eat at better restaurants and the same in regards to accommodation that’s based on fan-type rooms and dorms.

Budget to Mid Range

Accommodation 25’200 THB – 760 USD

Food – Eating Out 18’000 THB – 540 USD

Transport 15’000 THB – 450 USD Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Bangkok + Bangkok – Phuket (flights) + boat trip – Bangkok + local transport estimates

Activities/Sightseeing 10’000 THB – 300 USD  

Total: 68’200 THB – 2’060 USD While this is budget to mid-range in estimates you get really good value for money, eating well, good accommodation, and just enough of visiting places and activities. For the average drinker and room to budge with cash – 3’000 USD would provide a great holiday.

Mid Range and Above

Accommodation 42’000 THB – 1270 USD +

Food – Eating Out 21’000 THB – 635 USD +

Transport 15’000 THB – 450 USD Bangkok – Chiang Mai Bangkok + Bangkok – Phuket (flights) + boat trip – Bangkok + local transport estimates

Total Costs 88’000 THB – 2’660 USD + At the mid-range level, Thailand really ups its game in terms of accommodation and restaurant-quality that’s value for money. You can go anywhere above this range but the above guide is a good baseline.

Average drinker with room to spare ‘in terms of cash’ I would go along with 4’000 USD + and it would be a luxury vacation and possibly cash left over for duty-free gifts.

Pace Yourself

Taking it easy on the spending budget the first week in Thailand is a smart move, especially when you have never visited before. Thailand can seem very cheap and it is in many ways, however, before you know it a travel budget can drop drastically within a blink of an eye.

Keeping the budget a bit tight the first week or few days will help you get familiar with the costs here. Keeping it tighter the first week could enable the last week of your stay to be spent in much more luxurious accommodation before heading home, by being smart the first week.

I’m Jonesy. The one responsible for whole lot of things including having this Thailand site up and running. I first arrived in Thailand in 2008 and being a web developer it made sense to create a website and write some stuff about my second home. Enjoy your travels!

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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 budgets .

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

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• 🏝️ 10 Epic Days in Thailand: An Active & Unique Itinerary
• 🐘 Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 👲🏻 Monk Chats in Chiang Mai: Firsthand Review & Tips

🧋 Support Lukiih

Lists by Lukiih is a humble website that I fund with my own savings. If you find my tips helpful, I appreciate you saying 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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The best 14, 15 or 16 days Itinerary in Thailand

Thailand itinerary: 14, 15 or 16 days  – best things to do + tips.

You’re going to Thailand for your next trip and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your trip, I have prepared for you this 14, 15 or 16 days road trip itinerary in Thailand.

Starting from Phuket , you will discover Koh Lanta , Krabi , Koh Yao Noi and the splendid beaches of Southern Thailand.

A quick note: If you prefer to combine Bangkok , Northern Thailand and the South, you should rather read my other itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand: North + South.

In this guide, in addition to the must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips as well as a list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 14-15 days in Thailand?

Accommodation in Phuket

Accommodation in koh lanta, where to stay in krabi / ao nang, accommodation in koh yao noi, 5) return to phuket (1 day), you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, 1) phuket (4 days).

For this 14 or 15-day trip to Thailand , you should start by exploring Phuket.

As there is an international airport in Phuket , it’s the most convenient place to start a trip in Southern Thailand. Don’t forget to compare the flight prices to Phuket in the dedicated section at the end of this guide.

From the airport, you can take the taxi, bus or a private transfer (click here for info) to reach your hotel . You should choose a hotel near one of these 2 areas:

• Patong, located west of Phuket, on the seafront. it’s the most lively (and touristy) area of the island!
• Phuket Town, on the Eastern shore. It’s a convenient area to stay because it’s located near the boat terminal. You can thus easily reach the other Andaman Sea islands like Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta.

For your first day in Phuket, you can simply lay down your towel and relax on Patong Beach , a 2-km long sandy beach. You can sunbathe , swim or, if you want more action, rent a jetski or go parasailing!

In the late afternoon, stay in Patong and take a walk on Bangla Road . The island’s busiest street is home to many shops, bars and restaurants.

On Bangla Road, you can also go to Simon Cabaret and attend the best known ladyboys (men that could easily be mistaken for women) show in Phuket .

This attraction is very popular, so remember to book your tickets in advance by clicking here.

If you aren’t interested in this show, here’s another option: you can attend a muay thai boxing fight , the national sport. Crazy atmosphere guaranteed!

You need to book your tickets in advance here.

Then have a good night’s sleep at your hotel to recover from the jet lag.

For your second day in Phuket , continue to explore the island.

For example, you can focus on the Eastern coast , towards Phuket Town. If your hotel is in Patong, just take the bus or rent a scooter for the day.

If you prefer, you can opt for an organized day trip with pickup at your hotel. It’s the easiest way to see some of the best places to visit in Phuket!

You will find all the information you need to book this tour by clicking on the button below:

In Phuket Town , you should visit the old town and walk along Thalang Road and its surroundings. You will be able to admire the colourful Sino Portuguese style houses and buildings that give the place its charm.

There, you will also find several local craft shops and cafés.

In the district, you can also visit:

• Thai Hua Museum , on the history of Phuket
• Phang Nga Road and its street art
• The Phuket Museum, located in the Old Standard Chartered Bank building

Then head to Monkey Hill, for sure the best place to meet monkeys in Southern Thailand. They won’t hesitate to approach you if you have something to feed them. You can buy peanuts and bananas from many local vendors.

After feeding the monkeys, take the opportunity to climb to the top of the hill to admire the view.

While talking about nice views, you should continue on your path to reach Khao Rang Hill, another famous viewpoint in Phuket . Before you get there, stop by the temple of the same name to see the large golden Buddha statue.

To end the day , you should then head to one of Phuket beaches to take a dip!

In the evening, you can attend the Siam Niramit show. More than a hundred actors and dancers participate in this show tracing the history of Thailand. 

Click on the button below to book your tickets:

On the third day, you can continue your 15-day tour in Thailand by going to Koh Phi Phi island. It’s one of the most famous boat trips in the country!

The island, and more particularly Maya Bay beach , owes its popularity to the film, “The Beach” starring Leonardo di Caprio. Since then, all tour operators have been offering this day trip from Phuket.

Unfortunately, the hundreds of boats dumping more than 5,000 visitors a day have damaged the marine ecosystem and corals. Since 2018, it’s therefore forbidden to land on the beach, so you will just have to admire it from the deck of the boat.

This boat trip is a must-do during your 14-15-day itinerary in Thailand, as you will also discover other places just as beautiful as Maya Bay:

• Bamboo Island
• Maiton Island
• Khai Island
• Monkey Beach
• Pi Leh Cove
• Viking Cave

The great thing is that everything is included:

• Hotel pick-up and transport to the harbor
• Speedboat cruise
• Mask and snorkel are provided free of charge for snorkeling
• Unlimited free soft drinks

 Yes, everything is included in the price of around 120 USD (around 4200 Bahts).

Simply click on the button below to book your boat trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket:

And for an even more special day, you can instead book a luxury cruise to Koh Phi Phi on a catamaran . You can have all the information by clicking here!

For your fourth day in Phuket , you have several options:

1) Do another boat trip, this time to the Similan Islands archipelago.

I highly recommend it if you enjoy snorkeling or diving , as these islands are often ranked among the most beautiful diving spots in the world!

Here too, everything is included and organized for you, from the start in front of your hotel until your return to Phuket in the evening.

You can enjoy 3 swimming/snorkeling stops , a picnic in an idyllic setting, climb to the Sail Rock viewpoint and spend time on the beautiful beach of Donald Duck Bay.

To book your trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket , simply click on the button below:

2) Spend a day in an elephant sanctuary, where you can feed and wash them.

The living conditions of elephants in Thailand have always been quite deplorable. Many are abused from a very young age so that tourists can take rides on their backs when they become adults.

Hopefully, sanctuaries and shelters were created with the goal of helping injured, abused or old animals and allow them to live in the most natural environment possible .

Of course, you won’t be able to ride on their back, but you can help caretakers feed and wash them.

As the number of visitors is very limited each day , you really need to book your visit to Phuket elephant sanctuary in advance by clicking on the button below:

3) Rent a scooter to discover the southern part of the island.

Here are the best places to visit in the south of Phuket:

• Wat Chalong
• Karon View Point
• Nai Harn Beach
• Windmill Viewpoint and Yanui Beach
• Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape

And if you want more ideas of things to do in Phuket, you should read my dedicated article: Phuket: The definitive guide.

There are unfortunately numerous accidents in Thailand (during quad biking trips, parasailing, boat trips…) because some tour agencies don’t respect the necessary safety guidelines and their equipment is not up to standard or too old .

Hopefully, you can easily avoid that!

To make sure you book through a reputable and reliable agency, you should really book your tours and activities using the links in this article.

If you want to be on the lively side of Phuket, you should stay around Patong. Here is my selection of accommodation in the area:

• Lub D Phuket Patong: Youth Hostel 5 minutes from Patong Beach and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Modern and very clean dormitory bed from €12. Strong points: huge swimming pool, common areas with even a boxing ring, design, cleanliness. This is the best hostel in Phuket!
• Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 minutes from the night market and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Spacious designer double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: swimming pool, location, comfort of the rooms. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Patong.
• Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor facilities, swimming pool, welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff.
• Phuket Marriott Resort Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 2 miles from Patong, right on Tri-Trang beach. Warm and comfortable double room with private balcony or terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Strong points: sea-side location, private beach, quiet, playground for children, setting. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Phuket!

If you prefer to stay in Phuket Town, here is my selection of hotels:

• Baan Baan hostel: Hostel located in Phuket Old Town. Dormitory bed from €8, breakfast included. Strong points: helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm atmosphere. The best youth hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 metres from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Strong points: location, cleanliness, friendly staff.
• The Malika Hotel: Located 1.8 km from the old town. Double room with very comfortable bedding and balcony from €38, breakfast at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Phuket Town!
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Double room decorated with great taste from €50 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: excellent location, friendly staff, right next to the night market.
• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 mile away from the old town. Super spacious double room, modern design from €85, breakfast at €15. Strong points: setting, comfort, ideal to visit the old town, close to the boat to the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!

2) Koh Lanta (3 days)

For the 2nd leg of your 14, 15 or 16 day road trip in Thailand , you will leave Phuket and go to another island of the Andaman Sea: Koh Lanta.

To get there, you will have to take a boat departing from Rassada harbor , a few miles East of Phuket Town .

You should ask your hotel to book tickets for you 1 to 2 days before. They usually manage to negotiate better rates than what you would get if you book by yourself.

For example, we paid only 700 Bahts (including transfer to the harbor) instead of 1000 Bahts!

To go from Phuket to Koh Lanta , you will have to take 2 boats :

• First, from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi (a 2h30 journey)
• Then a second boat will take you from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta in 1h15.

You will depart from Phuket around 9 am and arrive in Koh Lanta around 1 pm.

If you prefer to take only 1 boat , there is a faster way to get to Koh Lanta: taking a speedboat!

However, not many seats are available, so you really need to book it in advance by clicking here.

During your boat trip, you will be offered transportation to your hotel in Koh Lanta.

It’s very convenient and prices are the same as those you will get if you book the transfer to your hotel when you arrive in Koh Lanta.

In the afternoon, you can relax at one of the beaches near your hotel or rent a scooter to discover the west coast of the island. It’s where the most beautiful beaches are located!

The more you go to the South, the quieter the beaches will be.

You will find more info about the best beaches of Koh Lanta in my detailed article: The 15 Best Things to Do in Koh Lanta.

Spend your first night at Koh Lanta.

For your second day in Koh Lanta , you should do the 4 islands boat trip .

I really loved that boat tour, it was for sure one of the best days I had during my trip to Thailand!

The islands you will visit are really beautiful and there are a lot of fish.

During your boat trip, you will discover:

• Koh Chuek , your first snorkeling stop
• Koh Waen, 2nd snorkeling stop. The fish and corals are very different from Koh Chuek.
• Koh Muk (the Emerald Cave): after a short swim in a 80 meter-long cave, you will arrive at a beautiful hidden lagoon, bordered by a forest.
• Koh Ngai, famous for its long sandy beach named Paradise Beach and its crystal clear waters . There, you will have lunch and some time to swim.

The price is approximately 1350 Bahts per person (about 40USD) and everything is included:

• Transfer from your hotel to the harbor
• Full day boat trip
• Snorkeling equipment
• Water and fruits

You need to click on the button below to book your 4-island boat trip from Koh Lanta:

The trip that I recommend is on a traditional Thai boat, however if you prefer, you can also book a similar trip by speedboat.

Click here to book the speedboat version!

For your 3rd day in Koh Lanta , you have several options depending on your preferences:

1) Go on a boat trip to Koh Rok Island

This is the second most popular boat trip, after the “4 islands” I mentioned above. Koh Rok is one of the most famous spots in Thailand to swim and snorkel thanks to its gorgeous reefs and numerous fishes.

You will have the full day to enjoy this paradise island (1 hour by boat from Koh Lanta).

This boat trip costs around 1800 Bahts (55 USD) per person and everything is included.

To book your boat trip to Koh Rok, you simply need to click on the button below:

2) Stay in Koh Lanta and choose between several activities:

• Kayaking in the mangrove , from Tung Yee Peng harbor. Click here to book!
• A boat trip in the mangrove swamp
• Scuba diving
• A day in an elephant sanctuary to feed and wash them
• Take a cooking class at Cooking with Mon
• Go on a walk in the old town of Koh Lanta
• Visiting Khao Kaew Caves or Tiger Cave
• Take a walk in Mu Koh Lanta National Park

All the details about these activities can be found in my dedicated article: The 15 Best Things to Do in Koh Lanta.

Spend one last night in Koh Lanta.

If you’re near Klong Toab Beach around dinner time , you should really eat at Sai Nat . This tiny roadside restaurant with only a few tables offers delicious homemade food.

In Koh Lanta, hotels are located on the west coast of the island, close to the numerous beaches.

As always, the best rooms are fully booked months in advance , so make sure to book as soon as you have your travel dates!

• Hub of Joys Hostel: Hostel located 350 metres from Long Beach. Clean and pleasant dormitory bed from €6 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, 5 minutes from the beach, good breakfast. This is the cheapest accommodation option in Koh Lanta! Perfect for backpackers.
• Long Beach Chalet: Located right on Long Beach. Bright and comfortable bungalow from 25€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, direct access to the beach.
• SriLanta Resort: Located on Klong Nin Beach. Thai style villa with a terrace overlooking the garden from 35€, breakfast at 10€. Strong points: 3 swimming pools, the setting, ideal location to go to the beach, comfort. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Kaw Kwang Beach Resort: Located on Klong Dao Beach. Nice and spacious double room from 50€, breakfast included. Strong points: sea-view, very quiet and accessible beach, swimming pool, landscaped garden, free pick-up and drop-off at the port.
• Rawi Warin Resort And Spa: 5 star hotel located 400 metres from Klong Nin Beach. Modern Thai style double room with wooden furniture and balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pools, playground for children, view, competent staff, ample and varied breakfast. Ideal for an upscale romantic stay!
• Pimalai Resort & Spa: 5 star hotel located 650 ft from Kantiang Beach. Very spacious and tastefully decorated double room from 210€, breakfast included. Strong points: the splendid infinity pool, dedicated staff, location, view, excellent breakfast. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Koh Lanta!

3) Krabi (4 days)

Your 15-day itinerary in Thailand will now take you to Krabi , still in the Andaman Sea.

From Koh Lanta you will have to take the ferry to Krabi. It takes about 2h30 and costs 350 Bahts per person (including transfers from your hotel to the port).

During the crossing, people will offer you taxis and shuttles to Krabi Town, Railay or Ao Nang . The prices are a bit high for Thailand but you should be able to negotiate a bit.

Anyway, it’s just as expensive as the options you will get when you will arrive in the port of Krabi.

When choosing your accommodation in Krabi, you should really stay in Ao Nang, the main seaside resort of the province. It’s the most convenient!

You can spend your first afternoon in Krabi on Ao Nang beach , or the slighly wilder Noppharat Thara Beach. 

Spend your first night in Ao Nang.

For your second day in Krabi , you should go to Railay peninsula , only accessible by boat.

To get there, you simply have to go to Ao Nang beach and take a boat . Tickets need to be bought at a small kiosk near the beach, you don’t need to book in advance.

You can reach Railay in just 10 minutes for 200 Bahts per person round trip (don’t lose your return ticket during the day).

On Railay, the plan is simple: enjoy the beach! The fine sands, turquoise waters, heavenly setting, everything is set for a relaxing day.

The 2 most beautiful beaches are Railay West Beach (where you arrive by boat) and Phra Nang Beach (15 minutes on foot from West Beach). Between the 2, you will find numerous bars and restaurants.

And if you want to do something else than sunbathing and swimming, that’s also possible! You can:

• Rent a kayak or a paddle board
• Climb to Railay viewpoint to admire the panoramic view over the whole peninsula. The climb is very steep and requires using ropes for about 15 minutes, so wear sneakers.
• Climbing activities: Railay is a famous rock climbing spot. To book your climbing course in Railay with a reliable agency that meets safety standards, click here!

On the next day, you should really do the best boat trip of Krabi province.

It start from Ao Nang beach, so it’s super convenient! (now you see why I recommended you to find an hotel there rather than in Krabi town 😎)

The boat trip is once again called “4 islands”. Yep, same name as the boat trip from Koh Lanta, but different islands!

During the day, you will discover:

• Koh Kai, also called Chicken Island
• Phra Nang Cave (in Railay)

As always, everything is included: hotel pickup and drop off, lunch, drinking water, fresh fruits and snorkeling equipment!

For your 4th and last day in Krabi , you have several options:

1) Visit krabi town and its surroundings.

From Ao Nang, you can rent a scooter or take the song thaew (shared taxi) to go to Krabi.

First, you should go to Tiger Temple (Wat Pham Suea), about 10 km from downtown. Built on top of a hill, the temple offers a 360° view over Krabi after climbing 1,237 steps!

In addition to going to the top of the hill, you can also enjoy a 30-minute walk in the forest in the part of the site called “Wonderland”.

Entry to the temple is free, but ladies, you will have to cover your legs and shoulders!

Then head to Krabi town for a short stroll to explore the main points of interest:

• Wat Kaew Ko Wararam: a pretty white temple
• The Andaman Art Museum and its paintings and sculptures by Thai and international artists
• Krabi market
• Khao Kanab Nam, the 2 karst rocks, symbol of the city.

2) Spend a day at the emerald pool and hot springs.

If you haven’t rented a scooter, the best way to get there is to opt for an organized day trip:

3) Hiking at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, 20 km North of Krabi.

4) Hiking the Tab Kak Hang Nak trail , 40 km from Krabi.

I tell you everything about these activities in my dedicated article: The 17 Best Things to Do in Krabi.

Spend one last night in Ao Nang.

• K-Bunk Hostel: Hostel located 15 minutes walk from Ao Nang beach. Dormitory bed from €13. Strong points: the staff, the ambiance, comfortable beds.
• Cocco House: Located 1.5 km away from Nopparat Beach. Very clean and quiet bungalow from €30 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, free bike rental, good bedding. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Ao Nang.
• Wake Up Aonang Hotel: Located right next to the beach. Double room with large bay windows and sea view from €50. Strong points: the beach adjacent location and all the restaurants, swimming pool, comfort.
• Phu Pha Aonang Resort Spa: Located 800 m away from Ao Nang Beach. Wooden and parquet floor room with patio from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: lush garden, view of the cliff, swimming pool, free shuttle to the town. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Ao Nang.
• The Nine Thipthara Klongson Resort: Located 5 km from the sea. Very spacious and tastefully decorated villa with a spa bath, from €220, breakfast included. Strong points: environment, swimming pool, beautiful rooms. My recommendation for a luxury stay in Ao Nang. The best place to spend a romantic holiday!

4) Koh Yao Noi (3 days)

You should end your 15-day trip to Thailand on a small island that is far less touristy than its neighbors: Koh Yao Noi.

To get to Koh Yao Noi, you need to take a boat from Krabi. The journey takes only 30 minutes and costs 300 Bahts per person. Upon arrival in Koh Yao, you can take a taxi to reach your hotel (100 Bahts per person).

For your first day on the island , rent a scooter (300 Bahts) and explore surroundings while stopping at the most beautiful beaches to take a dip.

Spend the night in Koh Yao Noi.

The next day, you should really do the 4 islands boat trip (yes, very original name 🤣. As you’ve noticed, it’s still the same name as the boat trip from Koh Lanta and Krabi, but the islands are, once again, different).

I know that’s a lot of boat trips, but exploring the small islands is for sure one of the best things to do during a 14, 15 or 16 day stay in Thailand!

During this tour, you will discover:

• Koh Ka Mit (Monkey Island)
• Koh Pak Bia
• Koh Lao Lading

To book this boat trip, you will need to ask your hotel. The cost is 2500 Bahts for the boat, to be divided between the number of participants.

For your last day in Koh Yao Noi , you should go on another boat trip . This time, you can visit Phang Nga Bay and the most famous island in the area: James Bond Island.

This boat trip is quite different than the other ones you did. It’s not that much about swimming and snorkeling, but rather about exploring the islands and having the opportunity to take pictures of the splendid landscapes. You can also go kayaking in caves.

In addition to the stop on James Bond Island , you will also explore the island of Koh Panyee and its large floating market. There, you will find numerous souvenir shops and restaurants.

The price is 4500 Bahts per boat , shared between the number of passengers.

If you’re tired of boating, you can also stay in Koh Yao Noi and have a walk, swim, go kayaking or simply relax on the beach.

Spend one last night in Koh Yao Noi.

You can find all the best places to visit and the most beautiful beaches of Koh Yao Noi in my article: The 12 Best Things to do in Koh Yao Noi .

• Tha Khao Bay View: Located to the east of the island. Simple bungalow with fan from €25 per night. Strong points: the incredible view of the sea, the location in the middle of nature, the friendliness of the owners. An excellent choice for a cheap stay in Koh Yao Noi!
• Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow: Located on the seafront, 15 minutes away in a songthaew from the port. Very spacious bungalow with a large bed and private terrace overlooking the swimming pool or the sea, from €45 per night. Strong points: the beach is nearby, the calmness, the swimming pool, the really cheap restaurant which provides delicious food in ample quantities. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Paradise KohYao: Located to the north of the island. Tastefully decorated room with an outdoor bathroom and private terrace from €95, breakfast included. Strong points: idyllic setting, infinity pool, private beach, location in the bay.
• Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island. Spacious and bright double room with very fancy decoration, from €150 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: design, calm, dreamy setting, friendly staff. A beautiful hotel in Koh Yao Noi, perfect for a romantic stay!
• Laguna Villas Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island, right on the beach. Beautiful fully equipped villas, a perfect mix of modern and traditional Thai style from €200 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: sea-facing location, large swimming pool, close to excellent restaurants.
• Six Senses Yao Noi: This is the most luxurious hotel on the whole island. It offers splendid villas with private swimming pools and even a butler that will be assigned to you for the duration of your stay. From €570, breakfast included. Strong points: Spa, gym, private beach, comfort, excellent meals, exceptional service. This is clearly the most beautiful luxury hotel in Koh Yao Noi. A dream place to spend your honeymoon or a romantic stay!

And so, we are at the end of your 15-day road trip to Southern Thailand!

From Koh Yao Noi, you should take the speedboat to Phuket. It takes 30 minutes and costs 300 Bahts per person to get there.

You will arrive in the north-east of Phuket, at Rang Bang Pier. From there you can take the taxi (700 Bahts) to Phuket airport for your return flight.

If you’re doing a 14-day itinerary in Southern Thailand , you can remove a day in Phuket or Krabi.

If you have any question to organize your 15-day itinerary in Thailand, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments sections below.

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai !
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai , + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!
• Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days
• Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
• Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
• Chiang Mai: The 20 best things to do
• Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
• Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
• Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
• Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
• Phuket: The 23 best things to do
• Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?
• 3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
• 3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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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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15 Days in Thailand: How Much Money Do I Need?

Do you want to know the cost of 15 days in Thailand? You've come to the correct place. Although Thailand is a budget-friendly place for all travelers, anybody coming there must be aware that its costs fluctuate due to the country's high tourist attraction. Calculating how much money you need is important, especially to travel around your desired activities, luxury, and the areas you intend to explore during your 15-day vacation. If you haven't already been to Thailand, it will no doubt be one of the places high on your travel list for a long time.

Thailand is famous for its most beautiful beaches, and its adventure activities have attracted tourists worldwide. If you get to sip a fruity cocktail while looking at the blue waters of a small island in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand, it is an indescribable value of life.

Not only is it packed with fascinating places, but Thailand is also one of the easiest places to travel in the world. Here they have added air-conditioned buses and low-cost airlines to transport anyone anywhere they want to go.

So do you want to know how much it will cost you to do this and that and all the activities in Thailand in 15 days? So come with us to travel around Thailand and find the information you need .

How to Calculate Your Budget for 15 Days in Thailand?

As Thailand is usually a pleasant and affordable tourist destination, 15 days is a great time to spend your holiday in such a wonderful and fantastic country. You may eat wonderful meals while viewing the woods, Buddhist monasteries, and beaches. And, of course, there are several places to visit throughout the country. So, you'll undoubtedly want to consider how to divide your time and money; you'll be busy for the next month.

If you are planning a low-cost trip in Thailand , you may buy a bowl of street cuisine for 30 Thai Baht. A typical Thai restaurant lunch will cost you between 90 and 150 Thai Baht. However, if you visit more tourist regions, your costs may rise. Furthermore, a high-quality international lunch in Thailand may be arranged for 1,360 Thai Baht. Alcohol is also rather expensive in the country. A drink can cost up to $7 if purchased or ordered in a hotel. As a result, the cost of meals in Thailand might vary substantially, but tourists should budget roughly $100 per week for eating. 

The cost of your hotel in Thailand is determined by the level of comfort you expect. In Thailand, you may easily find backpacker guesthouses for $10 per night or less and five-star lodgings with everything you need. In Thailand, the average weekly lodging cost is $210. A regular double-occupancy hotel room may also accommodate two persons. It will cost around $60 per week on average. 

Whether you have a large or small budget, you will not go hungry or empty in Thailand.

Breakdown of Thailand Costs

With a basic understanding of Thailand prices at various budgets, the information below can assist you in navigating particular budget issues. These will include costs of: 

• Transportation (to and around)
• Accommodation

Cost of Transportation in Thailand

Getting around Thailand may be quite cheap, especially if you use public transportation . Bus trips can be cheaper than $1, but if you're not a local, they might be difficult to catch because there aren't always designated bus stops; as a result, you must be familiar with the bus route in order to be picked up. Major cities like Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) have easier-to-utilize trains. You can travel by rail, bus, or plane in large cities.

• Taxis in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) start at slightly over $1, with a 1-kilometer journey costing $1.61. A similar route costs $1.45 in Phuket .
• For example, a short journey down the road starts at $2. Prices are negotiable, and it is recommended and anticipated that you bargain before boarding the tuk-tuk. 
• Hiring a private vehicle with a driver is widespread across Asia, including Thailand. In Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), a 10-hour rental starts at $118.
• In Thailand, you may rent a car for $200 per week to drive yourself. Europcar and Hertz provide pick-up locations at Bangkok International Airport. Scooters are less expensive to rent but more risky to drive. You may often hire one for around $60 per week.

Cost of Food in Thailand

Thailand is unquestionably a foodie's heaven. There is so much excellent Thai cuisine, and it is all extremely reasonable, so eating will not consume a large percentage of your Thailand trip budget. Here is a list of the many types of restaurants in Thailand and their prices. 

• Street markets are the cheapest place to dine in Thailand. Full plates of food may be purchased for as low as $1, while small snacks such as fruit platters and spring rolls are also available for less than $1. This is also where you'll discover the most genuine local Thai food, so open-air markets are the way to go, regardless of your budget. 
• Street markets are still the greatest places to shop if you want to prepare your own meals. Large Western-style supermarkets are uncommon in Thailand. A few small stores or 7/11s serve essentials and processed items. However, street markets provide the freshest and cheapest fruit, meat, fish, and spices. 
• Produce in Thailand is reasonably priced, and you can purchase a bag of fruit for just a few bucks. Cooking your meals is a great way to save money, but street food in Thailand is so affordable that you might as well try the local delicacies enjoyed by the natives.
• The cheapest choice for eating out is a modest, simple, local eatery with only a few menu options. A full dinner in this restaurant can cost between 40 and 100 Thai Baht, or around 2-4 USD. 
• Several eateries are catering to foreigners in Thailand's tourist destinations. You can get Western-style food, including pizza, burgers, and European and traditional Thai dishes. Dinner in a tourist restaurant will typically cost between 100 and 200 Thai Baht or around 3-6 USD.
• Food is fairly inexpensive, even in premium establishments. A full lunch in a high-quality restaurant can cost several hundred Baht; anything more than 30 USD is unusual. Therefore, Thailand is an excellent spot to treat yourself to the finest restaurants while spending far less than you would at home. 
• The price of alcohol varies in Thailand. Beer is the cheapest beverage, although wine and liquor are frequently imported and hence more expensive. Beer costs 1 or 2 USD if purchased at a convenience store such as a 7/11. A beer at a bar or restaurant is slightly more costly, but it is still the cheapest, costing around 3 USD. 
• Depending on the location, a mixed drink or cocktail might cost between $3 and $6. So, while drinking in Thailand isn't very costly, one of the greatest ways to save money in Thailand is to cut less on drinking in general and save your money for meals and entertainment.

Cost of Accommodation in Thailand

Thailand has a wide range of accommodations to suit any vacation budget. The majority of Thailand's travel budget is spent on lodging, yet it is still quite reasonable in comparison to other countries across the world. 

• A backpacker hostel is the most affordable kind of accommodation in Thailand. A typical night in a dorm room costs between $6 and $12. The $6 hostels will be less luxurious, but the $10-$12 hostels will be considerably more. Despite the low cost, Thailand's hostels are typically quite well-kept and full of fantastic amenities. 
• Thailand offers a number of guest homes, which are tiny, basic, and inexpensive hotels. A typical budget double room will cost you between $15 and $30 per night. If you're traveling as a couple, splitting the cost of a budget double room in a cheap hotel may be less expensive than paying for two hostel bunk beds. 
• Although a mid-range Thailand hotel may be quite affordable by Western norms, a magnificent hotel with a pool and many facilities can cost as little as $20 per night; however, the typical cost is between $30 and $60 per night. 
• If you want to treat yourself to the best hotels and resorts in Thailand, there are plenty of possibilities. When visiting the islands, you may find gorgeous oceanfront suites that meet your needs. Real luxury hotels in Thailand may range from $100 to $300  per night.

Activity Costs in Thailand

After you've paid for the basics, such as food, transportation, and lodging, you can start preparing your budget for the enjoyable activities. 

There are limitless options for adventure in Thailand, and you should engage in at least a few enjoyable activities throughout your visit. Thailand tours and activities vary in price and quality. Because some tour firms are posher and more established, their excursions are more expensive. Your budget solely determines the standard of your journey.

Here's a brief rundown of some of the most popular excursions and activities in Thailand that you might want to try. The actual pricing will vary depending on the area and the firm you book with, but here is an indication of what to expect.

• 5-15 USD per hour

Thailand Budget Travel Tips

To summarize what you've read so far, here are some of the greatest budget travel recommendations for Thailand that will assist you in saving money during your trip. 

• Traveling during the off-season 
• Choose low-cost flights 
• Try to share songthaews with other travelers 
• Don't allow tuk-tuk drivers to take advantage of you! 
• When possible, eat street cuisine
• Take benefit of all the free activities available in Thailand

Enjoy Your 15 Days Effectively in Thailand 

Thailand is actually one of those countries where you can travel as much or as little as you like. And this is unique because you can get the highest satisfaction for the money spent. It is no secret that you can get many experiences in Thailand that you cannot get in your own country. All in all, maximum inspiration can easily be found in Thailand on a budget of $30-$50 per day. 

We have summarized this guide to spending 15 days in Thailand and many things you need to know to make the most of your trip. Enjoy!

Indescribable : too unusual, extreme, or indefinite to be adequately described

Inspiration : the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something attractive 

Lodging : temporary accommodation

Splitting : the action of dividing or being divided into parts

Utilize : make practical and effective use of

Dr. Theodore (Professor Bear)

Hi! I'm Dr. Theodore Bennet (Professor Bear), your scholarly travel companion who brings history to life with immersive tours and expert guides. With a Ph.D. in History and years of travel writing experience, I offer authoritative insights for unforgettable journeys.

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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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• Thailand-itineraries

Thailand in 15 days for independent travellers

Suggested itinerary: thailand in 15 days for independent travellers.

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

Arrival at Bangkok International Airport. Transfer to your hotel. Walk through the city centre. Night in Bangkok. 

Day 2: Bangkok: the temples, the Chao Phraya River and Chinatown

In the morning explore the Grand Palace and the city’s main temples: Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha (Wat Phra Chethupon) and the Dawn Temple (Wat Arun). In the afternoon hire a boat to explore the city’s channels (khlongs). After sunset, have a bear at the popular Khaosan Road and have dinner in Chinatown. Night in Bangkok.

Day 3: Bangkok: the floating markets

Have a day trip to one of floating markets outside the city (Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, Taling Chan…). Train overnight to Chiang Mai. 

Day 4: Chiang Mai

Visit the city temples in the morning and the Khun Chankian Hmong Tribal Village in the afternoon. Enjoy sunset from Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Monastery. Walk through the night market. Dinner in one of the restaurants placed on the banks of the river. Night in Chiang Mai.

Day 5: Trekking in Chiang Mai

This day go in a tour through the jungle. The most common day trips include elephant caring, white water rafting, swimming in waterfalls and trekk in the jungle. Overnight in Chiang Mai. 

Day 6: Krabi

A flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi. Night in Railay Beach.

Day 7: Railay Beach and the 4 islands

Take a tour to visit the 4 most popular islands in the krabi coast: Koh Gai (the chicken island), Koh Tup, Koh Mor and Koh Poda. In the afternoon, explore Railay beaches: Tonsai, Railay West, Phra Nang y Railay East. Climb up to the Phra Nang viewpoint, to enjoy stunning views of the península. Night in Railay Beach. 

Day 8: Hong Islands

This day, enhoy the wonderful and inhabited Hong Islands, an archipielago formed by 12 little islans, with hidded lagoons, caves and stunning beaches. Night in Railay Beach.

Day 9: Phi Phi Islands

Today, take a ferryto Phi Phi Don fromthere. Have a walkthroughTonsaivillage and goto Phi PhiLeh in theafternoon. Night in Phi Phi Don.

Day 10: Phi PhiIslands: Phi Phi Don, Mosquito Island and Bamboo Island.

Climbup to Phi Phi view point to get the best views over the island. Afterwords, rent a long tail boat to visit the northern beaches of theisland, Mosquito Island and Bamboo Island. Night in Phi Phi Don.

Day 11: From Phi Phi to Koh Pangan

Trip from Phi Phi Islands to Koh Phangan. Night in Koh Phangan

Day 12: Koh Phangan: Northern and Western beaches

Visit Haad Khuat (Bottle beach), and stop at Haad Khom for ono of the best snorquelling spots in the island. Have lunch in Chaloklum Bay. In the afternoon, visit Haad Mae Haad and do some snorquel at Koh Ma island. See the sunset in any of the western beaches. Night in Koh Phangan.

Day 13: Koh Phangan: Eastern beaches

Start the day swiming and sun bathing at Thong Nai Pan beaches. Explore Haad Than Sadet beaches in the afternoon. Have a cocktail in Haad Rin watching the sunset. Have dinner at Ban Tai. Night in Koh Phangan.

Day 14: Back to Bangkok

Dedicate the day to come back to Bangkok. If your flight is late at night, go back to Bangkok the same day you fly. Night in Bangkok.

Day 15: Bangkok and flight back home

If you have time before taking your flight back home, we recommend you visiting the Chatuchak market (weekends only, if not in weekend, take a Thai cuisine course instead) and/or explore the Siam commercial area. Flight back home. 

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Discover the country of smiles, Thailand [Complete 15-days itinerary]

Thailand, one of the must visit places of Asia. This trip was our first contact with the Asian continent and with that different culture. And we know the difficult it can be to organize a trip to a country with that many important points to see and with a time limitation (holidays in this case), so that’s why we bring you this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand .

Thailand has everything you would like to find in a trip. Big cities, adventure, good gastronomy, incredible beaches and nature, so we are sure that every person that visits the country would want to go back. In our case, we decided to travel for 15 days in the country, with a planned route and with the advantages and disadvantages that we are going to explain you below.

Let’s go!

Article content

Day 1: Bangkok

First day of this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand started, as it can’t be different, in the capital and main city, Bangkok. This is a huge city of 10M of personas and a metropolitan area of 14M and many points of interest.

After 14 hours of flight from Barcelona, we reached the hotel at midday, tired for the journey and the time difference. We were sleeping at the Furama Silom Hotel , a 4-star hotel with a reasonable price and near the city center. From this point, we had many options to move in the city. The same afternoon of the arrival, we started visiting the city in Bangkok’s Chinatown.

Chinatown is in the Samphathawong area. From our hotel, we took the bus number 1 to stop in the Yaek Song Wat stop, in the door of Chinatown. This area of the city, as many you can see in Bangkok, is a very commercial area, with many chinese street food places so the ideal approach in this area is to walk around the streets and get lost in the multiple places and stores it has.

Day 2: Bangkok - Grand Palace and Wat Pho

The second day in Bangkok was dedicated to visit the main palaces of the city. To reach them from our hotel, we took a taxi boat. At this point we were ripped for the first time in the trip. We wanted to take the official taxi bus of the city and when we reached the place a group of people indicated us where to take the pass to go into the boat. As we didn’t check the information in the Internet before (big error), they charged us more money and we went in a more exclusive boat but also more expensive. To avoid that, here you have the official taxi boats website with the schedule and prices.

Our first stop was the Bangkok’s Great Palace. This is a building complex inaugurated in the 1782 and that served as the royal residence for more than 200 years. The main visits inside the Palace are the Emerald Buda Temple, Chakri Maha Prasat and Dusi Maha Prasat.

It’s a very touristic place, so you will see lots of people visiting the palace mainly in the high season, so our recommendation for this visit is to get up early and go when the doors open. The price is 500 THB (14 €) and you can buy in the tickets box office or in the official Royal Palace website . The schedule is 8.30 to 15.50.

After this visit, we went to Wat Pho , the reclining Buddha temple. This temple is near the Great Palace, so if you have time is recommendable to visit both in the same day. It’s a curious temple as it has the big reclining Buddha and it has some patios with cool structures. The price is 5-6 euros and the schedule is 8-17h.

After the whole day visiting temples, we spent the afternoon walking and we went to Khao San Road, the backpackers street. This is a very crowded street with lots of tourists and bars / pubs where you can have a great time. That’s the reason why it’s also a must visit in this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand.

Day 3: Bangkok - Chatuchak market and MBK Center

In the third day of this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand, we went to more commercial areas as it’s a main and key point to understand Bangkok.

The Chatuchak market is the biggest and most famous of Thailand and one of the biggest markets in the world. It just opens on the weekend, so if you want to visit it, you have to be in the city on the weekend. It has 27 different sections, so the best way of visiting it is to get lost in the different streets and stores. In our opinion, it is worth to visit as the markets are a very important concept in this country and, being the most important one, you can understand better the thai culture.

After visiting Chatuchak in the morning and lunching there, we went to the MBK Center , one of the most important places of counterfeits and haggling. It is a big mall with many floors where you will find a great offer of counterfeits. It’s true that in the last years, the thai government is controlling that, but when we were there (2018) this business was still alive.

Finally, we ended the day walking in one of the most famous parks in the city, the Lumphini park. It’s a big green area inside this chaotic city that gives you a little bit of piece inside the overwhelming Bangkok. It has a lake and you can visit it from 5 am to 21 for free.

Day 4 - Ayutthaya

The fourth day of the trip was fully dedicated to visit the historical park of Ayutthaya. This is a must visit in your trip to Thailand and one of the key points on our complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand .

Ayutthaya is a set of temples and ancient palaces located 80km from Bangkok and considered Human Patrimony. 

Those are ruins of an ancient civilization that dominated the Asian Southeast between the XIV y XVII centuries. The main points of this place are the  Wat Chai Watanaram, Wat Mahatat (famous temple with Buddha’s head in a tree) , Wat Prasisanphet, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Yai Chai Mongkol.  

In order to visit this place you can do it on your own or booking a guided tour. We chose the second option as it was a place outside Bangkok and knowing the chaotic traffic of Bangkok we prefer to with local people. Our tour was booked in GetYourGuide of 1 complete day in Ayutthaya that guided you through the different key points with a private driver. We really recommend to do it like this, it was awesome!

 They left us in the hotel in the afternoon, moment that we used to rest as we had to travel next day to Chiang Mai. 

Day 5: Chiang Mai

Next stop in our complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand is one of our favorites, Chiang Mai. It’s the biggest city in the north of the country and it’s located in a mountain region, so it’s ideal to spend some days trekking and enjoying the nature. In this city we saw lots of travelers so it’s a really attractive place to spend some days in.  

This city is in the north of the country and to reach it from Bangkok is recommended to take a local flight. In our case, we flew with Nok Air and it took us one hour from Bangkok’s airport.

After landing in Chiang Mai in the morning, we went to our hotel in the city centre. The hotel was the Kate and Hasu Boutique Chiang Mai and it was amazing due to the kindness of the people working there.

After leaving the things in the room, we walked around the hotel and the streets of the centre of the city. It’s something we use to do to know where we are, what interesting things are near our hotel and see the environment that the city has. Moreover, you also can find some small local temples that are worth to visit as they are far from the intense experience in Bangkok temples.

After having lunch and res, we decided to visit the famous Night City Market ( Chiang Mai Night Bazaar ). It’s a small market but very charm and nice that it’s just active from 18h to 24h. It’s recommended also to go to Ploen Ruedee Night Market as it’s a foodtruck market with different types of food.

Day 6: Chiang Mai - Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and Doi Suthep

Elephant jungle sanctuary.

Our second day in Chiang Mai, started very early in the morning as we had a visit to one of the elephant sanctuaries of the region. We booked this activity directly in the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary website, that some friends recommended us as they were day years ago. This is a half day activity as the place is far from Chiang Mai and they drive you in a jeep to the jungle.

We decided to visit it as they strongly recommended that to us and it had very good references due to the kindness with the animals and the task they were doing there. The way they treated the animals and their conditions were good, we didn’t see any strange behavior. The problem was that when we arrived to Chiang Mai and we saw that there was lots of different places that said to be elephant sanctuaries. That made us doubt if that was a tourist activity or they really save this animals. With that, we don’t want to say that they are not doing a great task, but we don’t really know the truth behind all this world. We decided not to contribute to any animal related tourism in our next trips!

In the afternoon, we asked in the hotel which activity we could do and they strongly recommended us to go to Doi Suthep with a local driver and we decided to accept. This temple (called Wat Phra That ) is located in the top of a mountain and was built in the XIV century. It’s one of the more venerated temple by the buddhism and one of the more important in the country.

That was one of the best experiences in this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand, as we were lucky to have a driver that spoke a perfect English and that wanted to be our guide in our visit to Doi Suthep . It was super interesting as he explained us the Buddha’s story though a set of paintings in the temple walls and we discussed about the religion and the effect it has in Thailand and in the European countries. Luckily, we also had the change to see how the buddhist monks were meditating and praying. Lastly, from the temple you have an incredible view of all the city and the surroundings.

The price of the ticket is 30 BTH per person with an additional charge of 20 if you want to go by funicular (there are many many steps). The schedule is from 6h to 20h.

Day 7: Phuket

The 7th day of this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand, began with a new flight, from Chiang Mai to the turistic island of Phuket, in a 2 houts flight done by Thai Smile .

This area of the country is very popular among tourism as it’s offering a mix between beaches and attractive leisure areas. Under our idea, it is the place of the country that we enjoyed less, as everything was too tourist oriented. If we did the trip again, we would have changed this part of it and we would have stayed one extra day in Chiang Mai doing a mountain trekking and sleeping in the mountain or maybe the Krabi area. With that being said, that doesn’t mean that Phuket don’t have many attractive things to do.

We didn’t have much time to visit things on this day, as we arrives at midday and we were directly to the hotel and lunch. We stayed in the Malika hotel and it was great, well located, clean and with a nice swimming pool.

During this day, we walked around the hotel area and we looked for a tour for the next day. Our idea was to go to the Phi Phi islands, but it wasn’t possible due to wind storm, so we booked a complete tour to James Bond Island and some small islands of the area.

Día 8: Phuket - Tour de James Bond Island

The next day, was fully dedicated to do the James Bond excursion and some close islands in Phuket. The tour we did is the one here .

We started in a ship that drove us to James Bond Island (Ko Tapu). This is an island that got famous in 1974 after James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun” was shot. The island itself is not a great attractive. The most important thing is the big rock placed in the middle of the bay. It’s a very overcrowded island and depending on your schedule, it can be a little bit overwhelming.

After the visit we keep our visit and we did a kayak activity. That was a very funny point and spectacular as we went to some virgin islands called Hong Islands.

Next to that we visited and lunched in Koh Panyee , a muslim and nomad fishermen island. It’s curious to see the muslim religion in a country where the buddhism is the key of everything.

Our assessment of the tour is quite good as it was better than expected. It was funny and we could see some interesting places. If you decide to visit Phuket, it’s a very interesting option to enjoy a beautiful day.

Day 9: Trip from Phuket to Koh Tao

After more than a week in the country, we reached one of our most expected moments in the trip, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan islands. There are three famous islands in Thailand Bay, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. We decided to visit the two first ones due to the activities we saw we could do in both islands. The most famous and biggest one is Koh Samui, so we have an excuse to go back to Thailand to visit it 😉 

The journey from Phuket to Koh Tao was not easy, as there’s no direct flight, so we opted to do the trip by bus to reach Surat Thani + take a ferry to Koh Tao (we booked in 12 Go Asia website). Another option would have been to fly to Koh Samui and take a ferry from there, but we wanted to save some money at this point of the trip. All the journey was well organized and we did the trip on time, but it took us 10 hours to make the whole journey. We must confess that we didn’t know that at this point, but it was good to have one day for rest!

After all the day, we reached this incredible island and we went directly to our hotel. We decided to sleep in the Koh Tao Bamboo Huts by Charm Churee , a villa built near the sea and in our room we had a balcony where the waves crashed. That was an incredible experience for us!

Day 10: Koh Tao - Diving baptism

And in the 10th day of this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand, we had one of our favorite days, the diving baptism. This island is known to be one of the most important diving points of the country, so we decided to test this sport for the first time in our lives. And we did that in a highly recommended school, Pura Vida Koh Tao .

It was an amazing day. We started with a theoretical class of the principles of diving, needed to do the activity safely. Next to that, we started to do some basic immersion maneuvers in a place near the beach shore to start being familiar with all the concepts. And after this, we went to the ship and did the first real immersion. The sensation was incredible and the sea bottom was nice as we could see lots of different marine fauna.

After this first immersion, we had some rest and lunch and we moved to another place to do the second one (10m of depth).

To finish the day, they return you to the school and they prepare an Argentinian barbecue and they make some games and you can know the instructor better and ask them to tell you some interesting stories.

The price of this activity was 80€ per person with 2 immersions. For us, it was completely worth it due to the persons that manage the center, the nice sea views and the freedom you can feel when you dive in open water.

Day 11: Koh Tao - Beaches

This day was dedicated to visit the most famous places of the island. The reality is that it is a small island and you can rent a transportation or even do the visits by foot. We decided to walk through the island, but unfortunately we had bad weather with some torrential rain (2 hours) so we couldn’t enjoy as we wished the nice beaches and sea of the island.

The first beach we visited was Jansom Bay, located near our hotel. It is a small beach with calm water where you can have a calm moment as it’s not overcrowded at all. After this, we went to the Shark Bay beach and the Chalok Baan Kao Bay . The reality was that as we were unlucky with the weather, we couldn’t do snorkel in Shark Bay , as it’s one of the best places in the country to do it.

Due to the rain, we had to go into a restaurant in Shark Bay and stay there for 2 hours. After the rain, we decided to walk for 1 hour to reach our hotel, have some rest and have our dinner in the restaurant as we were tired.

Day 12: Koh Tao - Koh Phangan

Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye to the incredible Koh Tao island to go to our last stop in Thailand, Koh Phangan, in the 12th day of this complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand.

We went from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan by in ferry in 1h30 and it costed 500THB (14€) per person and we booked it in 12GoAsia .

Finally, we reached Koh Phangan at midday and we went by taxi to our hotel, the Baan Manali Resort. The truth is that is a highly recommended hotel with a small beach and pool and a very good breakfast.

As usual, the first afternoon we enjoyed the surroundings of the hotel and we walked in the near beaches to our hotels. It was a great area and with few people, so we were able to relax a lot! 

At night, we walked through the Thong Sala Village and we saw the night food market, the Phantip Night Food Market . You could enjoy a great local market food of very good quality. It was great!

Day 13: Koh Phangan - Bike excursion

The next day of our complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand, we decided to do a complete jungle excursion by bicycle, and we could see the central part of the island.

In that tour, we could see how the coconut island harvest was made, we went inside the jungle by bike (an amazing adventure), visit some local and very interesting temples and try some of the typical fruits of the country, as the Durian or Mangostan. The truth is that it was a great experience, as the guides were so nice and the excursion was perfectly organized. It took us 5 hours, all the afternoon, so if anyone wants to do a similar activity we recommend to be in a good shape as the terrain is not flat and you must be keen on biking. 

The tour can be made in the morning or afternoon and the company is called Phangan Bicycle tour (located in Thong Sala).

Day 14: Koh Phangan - Bottle Beach excursion

sadly, the last day of our trip arrived. But it was a great day, as we spent it in one of the most famous beaches of the island, the Bottle Beach. In order to do this excursion, we went to Chaloklum from Tong Sala in tuk-tuk.

There, we booked in situ a tour that they were offering from the same Chaloklum beach that took us half a day and they drove you to a great snorkeling place and then to the Bottle Beach. It was a great day, as Bottle Beach is a very nice place, one of the best beaches you can see in Thailand. Moreover, we had an incredible weather, so the day was perfect.

In case of going to Koh Phangan, we would recommend you to book this kind of tour as this beach is one of the best you can see there. You can also visit it doing a trekking from Chaloklum.

Day 15: Back to Bangkok

All good things come to an end, and there is were our complete itinerary of 15 days in Thailand finished. We said goodbye to this wonderful island to go back to Bangkok and be prepared to take our flight to Barcelona on the day after.

In order to go back to the capital city, we took a ferry from Koh Phangan to Surat Thani and we went to the airport from there. It was a 1 hour flight to Bangkok and we slept near the airport. We won’t recommend this hotel as it was a very bad experience (the food was terrible and we had many insects in the room, so we couldn’t rest well).

Here you can see the maps of the places we visited, one per city.

Koh Phangan

Thailand is a country that you will fall in love with. In addition, if you never visited Asia before, it’s a perfect place to start in this continent. That is perfectly adapted for the tourism and it’s really easy to travel for free inside it.

If you have any doubt about the itinerary, don’t hesitate on asking us in the comments or in the social media. 🙂

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• Destinations

THAILAND TRAVEL COST: PRICES + DAILY BUDGET

Withdrawing & paying at the real exchange rate, without extra fees, thailand travel cost: prices + daily budget.

Thailand is an incredible country to explore, renowned for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. It's no wonder that Thailand attracts millions of travelers each year. Despite its popularity, Thailand remains an affordable destination. You'll find an abundance of inexpensive street food, budget-friendly hotels and hostels, and most attractions can be enjoyed for just a few dollars.

In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the expenses you can expect during your journey through Thailand. Whether you're looking to backpack on a tight budget or indulge in a more luxurious trip, the Land of Smiles accommodates all travelers. We'll cover costs for flights, food and beverages, accommodations, tours and attractions and transportation. To wrap it up, we'll provide an average daily budget. For your convenience, we'll mention all prices in dollars, although you'll be using the Thai Baht while in Thailand. Currently, $1.00 USD is approximately equivalent to 36 Thai Baht.

Costs for flight tickets to Thailand

The costs of flight tickets depend on several factors. On average, a round-trip economy class ticket from major U.S. cities to Bangkok can range from $600 to $1,200 USD or more. Flights tickets from major European cities to Bangkok generally cost a little less, between $400 and $900 USD. Keep in mind that prices tend to be higher during peak travel seasons, so booking well in advance or during promotional periods can help you secure more affordable fares. Direct flights may be more expensive than those with layovers.

Costs before traveling to Thailand

If you plan to stay in Thailand for a maximum of 30 days, many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for a 60-day visa. The costs are around $30 to $40 USD for a single entry, allowing you to enter Thailand only once. For instance, you can't make a trip to Cambodia within those 60 days and re-enter Thailand afterward. If you need multiple entries, the cost is higher. A multiple-entry visa costs between $150 to $250 USD, allowing multiple entries into Thailand within six months, with a maximum stay of 60 days per entry.

While there are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Thailand, we recommend getting certain vaccinations. It's best to consult health organizations in your country for advice. The vaccinations for Thailand are also recommended for many other destinations.

To ensure you've covered everything for your trip to Thailand, check out the Ultimate Thailand Packing List  for a convenient overview!

Costs for food and drinks in Thailand

It's hard to find a place where you can eat as cheaply and deliciously as in Thailand. At the numerous street stalls, you can get a local dish for around $1,50 to $2 USD. These stalls often offer a wide variety of dishes, allowing you to try something different every day. Even when dining in local restaurants, prices remain low, averaging around $3 to $4 USD per dish. Western food tends to be slightly more expensive, starting at around $7 USD, but prices can vary depending on the location. At coffee shops, various types of coffee cost between $1,50 and $2,50 USD. Additionally, Thailand offers delicious fruit juices and smoothies available at around $1 USD from street vendors to $2,50 USD at coffee shops.

Accommodation costs in Thailand

Accommodation in Thailand is affordable. If you're looking for budget travel, outside of the peak season (November-February), it's easy to find a double room with a private bathroom for between $10 and $20 USD in most places. A room in a slightly better hotel often ranges from around $20 to $30 USD. Staying in a hostel can start from $5 USD and even cheaper in some very economical hostels. For solo travelers, we recommend choosing a friendly hostel without compromising too much on quality, as hostels are the best places to meet new people. Enjoying a bit of luxury during your vacation is also reasonably priced in Thailand. Between $50 and $100 USD, you can find some real gems, staying in well-designed boutique hotels or charming bungalows.

Costs for tours and attractions in Thailand

The entrance fees to popular attractions in Thailand are often low, despite the influx of tourists. Thailand is well-known for its stunning Buddhist temples. Most temples have free entry, but donations are appreciated. The more popular temples, such as Wat Pho in Bangkok and Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai , charge a small admission fee, typically around $3 to $6 USD.

When traveling to popular destinations in southern Thailand, many expensive tours are offered. On almost every corner, you'll find shops offering tours for island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and jungle treks. These tours are often considerably more expensive than arranging them yourself. For instance, you can get boat tickets to islands independently or use Grab (the Southeast Asian alternative to Uber) to reach a national park for a jungle trek. The advantage is more freedom and lower costs, but it may require a bit more planning and research. A good alternative to dealing with the aggressive sellers at tourist shops is booking a tour through GetYourGuide . These tours are often cheaper (or at least equally priced) compared to purchasing them on the street, and you can comfortably review all the details in your own language before booking. Additionally, almost all tours include hotel or hostel pickup, which is great!

Transportation costs in Thailand

Thailand is a large country, and distances between popular destinations can be substantial. Fortunately, Thailand boasts a good network of trains and buses connecting all these places, and domestic flights are also affordable. One of the longest journeys you might undertake during your trip in Thailand is from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which takes about 10 to 14 hours by bus or train, costing roughly between $20 and $30 USD. A flight ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can be acquired for approximately $40 to $70 USD, depending on your luggage.

Additionally, traveling within Thailand is cost-effective with Grab, the alternative to Uber in Southeast Asia. For a 15-20 minute ride, you'd pay around $2 to $5, depending on the city, time, and route. Songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) and motorbike taxis are even cheaper, often costing just $1 to $2. Tuk-tuks tend to be pricier than taxis, but with good bargaining skills, you might secure a more affordable ride.

Renting a scooter is also budget-friendly in Thailand, typically around $6 to $10 USD per day, depending on the location and rental duration.

Average daily budget for Thailand

The daily budget for a trip in Thailand greatly depends on the choices you make.

If you're traveling on a budget, staying in hostels and enjoying street food, you can manage at around $30 to $35 USD per day. For those wanting to explore more, stay in better hostels or hotels, and occasionally indulge in more luxurious or Western meals, the budget can range between $40 to $60 USD per day. Of course, you can tailor it to your preferences. Especially in Bangkok and the southern regions, you'll find plenty of luxury hotels, expensive restaurants, and upscale nightclubs.

In summary, Thailand offers options for every budget. Costs for local food, accommodation, and attractions are generally low, allowing you to adjust your expenses based on your preferences. It's a country that caters to various types of travelers, providing ample opportunities to explore this beautiful land.

Do you want to read more about Thailand?

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About the authors

THAILAND – OUR ITINERARY GUIDE FOR A 15-20 DAYS TRIP

Welcome to our Thailand itinerary guide, the country that has it all! From tropical beaches in the south to charming mountains in the north, from crazy railways to ancient tribe villages and elephant sanctuaries. It is a vast nation and places to see are countless, here we try to list the most important ones.

Thailand was our first country in Southeast Asia we stepped in, as many first time goers we landed in Bangkok . Describing this city would need more than 1,000 adjectives, and same goes for the country as well. Let’s just stick to the popular tag to keep it simple: “The land of smiles” !

READ ALSO: 11 free things to do in Singapore

WHERE&HOW TO GO AROUND THAILAND

You’ll need at least 15-20 days if you want to experience both northern and southern Thailand, if you have just one week you’ll have to choose between them.

SOUTH – BEACHES&ISLANDS

Southern Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful islands in Asia, a must in our Thailand itinerary guide.

KOH SAMUI – KOH TAO – KOH PHANGAN

This archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand is one of the first images you find when you type Thailand on Google. Beaches, sun, hot weather, diving&snorkeling, partying… What else would you need? One could spend easily one week on each of these 3 islands and never get bored. Koh Samui is the biggest and easier to reach due to its International Airport. Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are smaller with the former being tiny and with less capacity, arguably the most beautiful naturally speaking (our favourite), and the latter standing halfway in size and number of visitors. Ways to get here are many, by plane, by train or bus+ferry, read our experience here to have a better idea.

Phuket is the other main destination in the south. Despite not being in the Gulf of Thailand, but in the Andaman Sea instead, landscapes are similar with scenic beaches and lovely sunsets. Known for its crazy parties, the island is very big and offers natural reserves and tranquil areas too, other than the worldwide famous Phi Phi island being at day trip distance. You can fly from Bangkok to Phuket daily or catch a local bus or train if you are on a budget.

CENTRE – MAINLAND&HISTORY

The centre of Thailand is rich in history, present and old capital cities rise here.

As said before, Bangkok is hard to describe in few words, and today it’s so much extended that every neighbourhood is a different city within the city . If you have time, stay at least 3 days to get a glimpse of it. We’ve been there many times already, the sacred temples area is for example so different from the modern Sukhumvit where we stayed last time!

Ayutthaya is one of the former capitals of the Kingdom of Siam . Its open air temples are astonishing, our recommendation is to get a bike and wander around freely ! Being at an enjoyable 1h30 train ride away, it is possible to get here on a day trip from Bangkok.

Another historic city is Sukhothai, deep in the centre of Thailand. It’s similar to Ayutthaya in some ways but way further from Bangkok, we had to choose between them for time issues. Do both if you are not in a hurry.

DEATH RAILWAY

Running towards the western border with Myanmar, this famous railway is a must if you fancy scenic train rides. The bridge on river Kwai is its most famous section. Get to Bangkok Thonburi Station and hop on a train direction Kanchanaburi .

NORTH – MOUNTAINS&TRIBES

Northern Thailand is where Buddhism has its stronger roots.

CHIANG RAI/GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Chiang Rai is the closest city to the border with Myanmar and Laos , known as the Golden Triangle where tons of drugs are said to be traded. A good starting point to go and see the elephants and the tribe villages where long necked women live.

Chiang Mai is probably the most spiritual city of Thailand, hundreds of temples rise in and outside its beautiful walls. Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) is celebrated at its best up here, with wild water fights. Activities to undertake are numerous around Chiang Mai, don’t miss the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and pay a visit to one of the many elephant sanctuaries.

Pai is a small town west to Chiang Mai that has become famous thanks to the many natural wonders surrounding it. During the day you can visit the unusual Pai Canyon, relax into some hot spring waters, or head to Pai Memorial Bridge. If you are up for adventure, read our story on how to complete the wonderful Chiang Mai/Pai/Mae Hong Son loop in the northwest of Thailand.

Some good-to-know info about Thailand:

HOTELS – WHERE TO STAY IN THAILAND?

You can pre book all of your Thai accomodation with free cancellation  here.

NEED INSPIRATION?

Check out our favourite place in Bangkok: modern, cheap, close to BTS subway and with a great rooftop swimming pool! We loved watching sunset while chilling in the pool!

Busaba Hostel Ayutthaya : this brand new stylish hostel is the perfect base to visit Ayutthaya and its dozens of temples. The dorms are clean and spacious and it is conveniently located along the river in the town centre. Plus they have a cool coffee shop with AirCon, ideal to take a break during a hot sunny day in Ayutthaya.

Tanwa Hostel Chiang Mai:  one of the best hostels in town, with modern facilities and very helpful staff. Walking distance from the night bazaar.

Last but not least, our gorgeous stay on top of a hill in Koh Tao, with private swimming pool and delightful sunsets: Viking House Villa Koh Tao.

WEATHER – WHEN TO GO TO THAILAND?

Thailand is subject to a tropical climate, with rainy season from June to September, warmer weather from January to May. From October to December the season is normally dry and not too hot.

VISA – HOW TO GET A VISA TO THAILAND?

Not only Thai people are friendly, but its visa policy is tourist welcoming too. Most of the countries have 30 to 90 days visa free stay. If you are not sure,  click here to double check if you need a visa to Thailand.

FLIGHTS – WHERE TO START YOUR TRIP?

As said, there’s a good chance Bangkok will be your first landing point in Thailand. However, tourist destinations as Phuket and Koh Samui have international airports connected to nearest hubs as Kuala Lumpur , Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City. Also, Chiang Mai airport in the north of the country provides many connections to all Southeast Asia main cities.

TRAIN, BUS, FERRY – HOW TO BOOK TICKETS IN THAILAND?

Train tickets can be bought at any station the same or previous day of traveling. You can order Thai train, bus, ferry and also flight tickets easily online from reliable agency amt.12go.asia.

We also recently used baolau.com , a new online booking platform operating in Southeast Asia. Follow our step-by-step guide to make sure you get your ticket delivered straight to your e-mail address.

So now you should know more about Thailand, but if you need more info, just let us know in the comments below.

We will be happy to tell you more details and provide our personal experience!

ENJOY THE LAND OF SMILES!

ONLINE IDP – INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT We recommend getting an International Driving Permit online if you’re planning to drive a vehicle abroad. The International Drivers Association offers a reliable online service that allows to get a digital+physical licence even if you’re already travelling, valid and accepted in 150+ countries worldwide. More info on the official website .

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Better safe than sorry. Here are two options for you to compare. Get a quote with World Nomads here , and get up to 20% off your travel insurance  with Heymondo here. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

COMPARE PRICES, BOOK FLIGHTS + STAYS

Did you know? Besides hotels and stays, you can now compare and book your flights + stays in one place on Booking Flights .  Search and compare deals on destinations and flights here .

Disclaimer: this post contains links to products and services for which we may be compensated, at no additional cost for you. Thanks for your support that helps us keep our blog free and operating!

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Thailand Travel Guide for 15 days

Planning to travel to Thailand? This guide is all about things to know before travelling to Thailand. You can plan your trip better and discover the real Siam beyond the usual tacky touristy spots after reading this post.

After me and Mum spent 15 days travelling around Thailand by ourselves, I've got loads more to share than just travel tips for Thailand. There are so many wrong ideas about women spending 2 weeks in Siam isn’t worth. Plus, many vacationers assume Thailand is meant for backers and they must speak as less as a week – They are wrong.

You don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy the budget-friendly wonders of the ‘Land of Smiles.’ Whether you’re vacationing or traveling like us in Thailand for two weeks, uncover the real Thailand beyond social media highlights

This detailed “How to Travel in Thailand Guide” makes your planning smoother, show you all sides of Siam.

• Ideal Time and Duration of Trip
• Places to visit in Thailand
• Thailand Travel Cost
• Booking tours and Activities
• Getting around – Public and Private Transport
• Preparing for Your Trip-Visa, Air connectivity, Currency, Cards
• Essential Information – Language, people, Culture, Safety and scams
• Practical Travel Tips for Thailand – SIM, Plug sockets and Tipping Culture
• Amenities – Public Toilet, hygiene, drinking water
• Food and Alcohol etiquette

1. Ideal Time and Duration for Visiting Thailand.

How many days to spend in thailand.

You must spend at least 15 days in Thailand, trust me on this one. Some Indian folks might give you the side-eye and ask silly-weird questions, just like they did to me . But seriously, Thailand’s so amazing and budget-friendly that backpackers often spend a whole three months exploring it. If you really can’t spend 15 days in Thailand, plan at least for 10 days. Another thing you should know before going to Thailand is it is super affordable. So travelling in Thailand for 2 to 3 weeks (or even more) won’t hurt your bank balance.

Best time to visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand is from mid-January to May and September to November. Hotel rates drop, the crowds thin out, and the weather’s just right across all regions. If you don’t mind little rain like we did, June is also great. Travelling in Thailand in June felt good with less-heat. The rainy season had kicked off in Chiang Mai and Phuket, but not bad to make you stay inside the room. If you’re cool with evening showers and strolls in the rain like us, June to August brings lush greenery to the mountains, making nature look amazing. But brace yourself for higher tides and not-so-calm seas, which might cramp your sailing days.

Travelling to Thailand in December is super popular, but you don’t do it. But December 3rd week until mid January can get pretty hectic with loads of tourists flooding in. The celebration vibe is to the sky. But the prices are rocketery high! Ashrith has been there for the new years only to get shoved in crowd.

2. Guide to crafting Thailand Travel Itinerary

Beaches to mountains, sacred temples to sexy shows, local handicraft centres to tacky malls – Travelling in Thailand can be packed with many many experiences.

When planning your trip to Thailand (at least for 15 days), don’t just stick to New Bangkok or Northern Thailand─there’s so much more! Thailand’s got over 35,000 Buddhist temples- And not all are same. It got Incredible beach spots along the Andaman and Gulf of Thailand coasts, and awesome marine life for scuba lovers. Central Thailand’s packed with ancient capitals like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, and hiking in national parks like Erawan is pure bliss. You can hit the classic beaches or venture off the beaten path.

Places to visit in Thailand for 15 Days

2 Days in Bangkok

Day Trip to Pattaya

2 days in Ayutthaya

2 days in Sukhothai

2 days in Chiang Mai

Day trip to Chiang Rai

5 Days in Phuket

Places that i don’t recommend adding to your thailand travel itinerary.

• Pattaya─I visited for a day and found only one thing appealing: the place seems artificial and overrun by inebriated men.
• Krabi, Railay , and Phi Phi─overwhelmed by tourists! Chances are high you’ll be swallowed up in the crowds.

e. Thailand Travel Cost

Thailand offers good affordability, cheaper than India but not as low-priced as Iran . Off-season travel in months like June can save a significant amount.

• Cost Estimates : In 2019 June, a mid-range budget traveler spent around 1800 Thai Baht (60 USD) per day /person, covering guesthouses, local meals, monument fees, transport (tuk-tuks, taxis), and shopping. Excludes flights, luxury resort stays. For 2023, estimate around 6000 INR or 75 USD daily.
• Prices during Christmas and New Years will be 40% more than this.
• Free Walking Tours : Available in select Thai cities through Guru Walks . Take advantage of these tours and consider tipping the guides as appropriate.
• Accommodation Options : Hotel rooms are relatively inexpensive compared to other Asian countries. Rooms ranged from 1600-1800 INR per night and were comfortable. There are also luxurious resorts costing up to 60k INR per day if you prefer a lavish stay. Choose homestays over the usual branded business hotels for more local experience.

Accommodation options in Thailand

If you’re a mid-range flashpacker like us, guesthouses are your best bets. They’re clean and offer more than basic facilities. Surprisingly, most guesthouses you stay at (costing about 500 to 750 baht/night) have AC and TV. So, you really won’t feel uncomfortable in Thailand if you stay in cheaper places.

Use Booking.com to find all kinds of accommodations in Thailand . I always filter 7+ rated properties and look for highest reviewed places. The best part is, you can communicate with your host through their messenger without having to share your personal number. This feature becomes super helpful while travelling in Thailand if you book, homestays like we did.

4. Booking Tours in Thailand

While strolling around in some Thai cities, you might stumble upon some pretty weird shows, like the Ping Pong show─it’s wild, where a girl uses her pelvic muscles for tricks. There are other quirky things too, like “Men with giant penises beating drums” or a “Massage with Boom.” If you’re into these crazy shows, you can snag tickets on the streets from the reps there. But for Cabaret shows, I’d suggest pre-booking those tickets .

Surely, you must book Island day trips or Private Yacht tours in much advance.

But don’t miss out on traditional Thai performances at temples or palaces, like Khon’s performance or Serng Krapo ─the coconut shell dance . They’re stunning and free!

5. Getting Around Thailand

Roads and driving.

Thailand drives on the right side, with two-point lap belts in cars – Which is super rare in other parts of the world.

Traffic’s quite wild, especially in Bangkok, much like the chaos in Bangalore. The good news? Honking isn’t common and reserved for emergencies, making the streets more pedestrian-friendly. People usually stick to lanes, but keep an eye out for motorbikes zipping between vehicles. Phuket’s traffic mirrors Bangkok’s, while Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai are mellower.

Renting cars and bikes in Thailand

Renting bikes or cycles is easy, but it's not exactly peaceful. As an Indian, I'm used to bustling motorbikes, but I wouldn't suggest renting one in Phuket or Bangkok─it can be too stressful.

Public Transport Overview

Thailand’s public transport is more than decent! You can totally count on it without needing to drive yourself or hire taxis much. When it comes to getting around Thailand, you’ve got plenty of choices available.

Taxis in Thailand aren’t expensive during day and can reach roof top post 8PM. Instead of Uber, Thailand uses Grabb.

Booking train tickets via Thailand’s railway website can be as tricky as navigating India’s railway website. During the off-season, you might find bus agents in tourist spots for ticket booking, but in peak times, seats go like hotcakes. So, apart from booking Tuk Tuks, taxi and Songathews, stick to 12Go Asia to book your tickets in Thailand. They display all available options for your choice of route – Be it train, bus, ferries, minivans, or a combo of these.

Guide to travel in Thailand using Railways

Trains in Thailand are budget-friendly, but with 1400+ islands, train options are limited. We rode from Ayutthaya to Phitsanulok; comfy journey, stinky toilets. Opt for AC coaches in summers and book early; locals use these trains a lot. Use 1 2Go Asia for easier train bookings in Thailand .

Using Ferries in Thailand

For island hopping, ferries are the go-to choice between places like Phi Phi to Phuket or Koh Samui. Just a heads-up, it’s public transport, not a private tour. If you’re after private yacht boat tours, check out Coral Seekers.

Travelling in Thailand by Public Buses

The white and blue buses connect major Thai cities, often reserved through middlemen like travel agencies on 12go Asia (you’ll spot their names while booking) . These agents pick you up and drop you at the main bus stands via minivans. If you don’t see an agency name, it’s your cue to head to the terminal by yourself.

For city travel, red and beige buses are the go-to, while shorter intercity trips like Bangkok to Ayutthaya use minivans.

Tuk tuks of Thailand

When Thailand comes to mind, “Tuk Tuk” is an instant thought. They’re like our Auto rickshaws in India but comfier and roomier. These mostly semi-open rides offer better airflow and safety, especially for solo travelers. To catch a ride, simply wave by the roadside. Use Google Translate or pictures to convey your address to the driver, haggle for the fare, and agree on the price before you hop on.

Travelling in Thailand cities by Songathew

In towns like Phuket and Chiang Mai, you’ll see larger red-colored shuttle taxis, known as “Songathew.” These are small trucks transformed into passenger vehicles with seats and overhead covering. They’re the most cost-effective way to travel between spots within cities. Since they’re privately owned, there’s no fixed schedule. Look out for groups of locals to find Songathew stops.

There’s usually a switch for a buzzer on the roof to signal your stop, but if you’re unsure, ask the driver.

Cycling in Thailand

Cycling in rural Thailand can be truly blissful. Picture yourself amidst the lush green rice fields of Sukhothai dotted with ancient ruins or the forests of Chiang Mai, pedaling on your bicycle! Biking around the outskirts of Phuket is an awesome idea! Cruising along the roads by the cliffside gives you an endless view of the Andaman Sea.

However, I suggest avoiding cycling around Bangkok or any other busy city.

If you’re concerned about feeling isolated while cycling in remote areas of Thailand, you can hire a guide. Local guides accompany you on their bicycles, taking you around magnificent places.

What are the best online options for booking bicycles in Thailand?

“Bicycle Thailand” is one of the most renowned cycling clubs, organizing numerous trips. They’ve got a comprehensive list of bike shops across different Thai cities .

6. Preparing for Your Trip

Thailand tourist visa.

Lots of tourists flock to Thailand because getting a tourist visa is super easy. The option of e-Visa and Visa On Arrival (Voa) is available for most of the nationalities. But don’t you just pack and leave already – You must check and know if you are eligible for Voa before travelling to Thailand .

Tips for indians travelling to Thailand

Thailand went even further to simplify entry for Indians – and while it's convenient, it might lead to over-tourism. They’ve waived visas for more countries now, even ones like India that previously had to apply, unlike Western countries. Check out the “ How to Get a Thailand Tourist Visa ” a first step in our travel guide to know more.

Thailand Government do not have any COVID entry restrictions. But they recommend COVID insurance for visitors from all countries when visiting Thailand.

Travelling to Thailand by Air

There are about 38 airports in Thailand, with several major ones handling international and domestic flights. Some of the prominent ones include

• Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok,
• Phuket International Airport,
• Chiang Mai International Airport.

Since COVID hit, airlines have significantly changed flight routes. They’ve axed direct flights from Indian cities like Bangalore or Chennai to places such as Phuket or Chiang Mai. Now, for many countries, landing in Bangkok first has become the norm.

Before booking, it’s wise to check Skyscanner for cheapest and convenient options for flight connections . Avoid those lengthy layovers, especially ones stretching up to 7 hours in Bangkok.

Taking Domestic Flights in Thailand

When moving between Thai cities, domestic flights become essential. While there might be a 15-hour bus from Bangkok to Phuket, flying between regions is more common. But think twice, before you book Thai-Airways . All our Thai Airways booking made till now to Thailand and other places have been cancelled after booking for us. Plus, their luggage policy is mostly cabin bags.

Thailand uses the Baht as its currency, featuring their kings on the bills (since it’s a monarchy). When exchanging currency there, carry USD, Euro, or GBP, not Indian Rupees. Most Indian state capitals have counters for buying or selling Bahts.

Card Payments

Mastercard and Amex cards worked like a charm everywhere in Thailand. But, you must know Visa cards gave us a headache at Thailand ATMs. Smaller towns like Samet Nangshe , and Old Sukhothai prefer cash payments. Luckily, there are loads of ATMs even in smaller cities, so you don't have to lug around a bulky wallet full of cash.

7. Essential Information

Language spoken in thailand.

Thai is the official language in Thailand and it’s dialect varies across region.

Different parts of the country have their own way of using Thai, like Chiang Mai compared to the south. Signboards, guides, and audio stuff come in English, French, German, and sometimes Russian. The folks driving tuk-tuks or working in hotels and restaurants can usually chat in English with tourists. When Thais chat, they tend to stretch their words at the end, making it kinda musical.

Thai People and Culture

More than 90% of Thais follow Buddhism, with a few Muslim communities near the Malaysian border in Southern Thailand and a small Christian population.

We noticed men hanging out and chatting at markets while women did a lot of the physical work. It seemed like Thai women are hardworking all over, whether as scuba diving instructors, boat rowers, or tour guides. Women drivers for taxis aren’t common, though.

Thailand's often called the “Land of Smile,” and it’s true─the people often have smiles on their faces. But we found them less friendly in terms of interactions. You get your service, pay up, and they’re off without saying goodbye. It's different from the warmth you'd often get from people in the Philippines.

How to dress in Thailand?

In Thailand, it’s common to see tourists wearing shorts and skirts, especially in beachside towns. However, when visiting temples and palaces, there’s a specific dress code to follow. Clothing that exposes the waist or goes above the knees, including leggings, isn’t permitted. I thought my leggings and sleeveless top would work (as I was covering knees) but, it didn’t! A temple also had an issue with my mom’s saree, because a bit of waist is seen when you wear saree

Read our post “ What to Wear in Thailand as a Tourist? ” a crucial segment of our travel guide, helping you pack the right items and choose appropriate attire for your trip to Siam.

Safety Concerns in Thailand

According to the 2020 Global Peace Index, Thailand ranks 114th, boasting lower terror attack rates and generally being safe for travelers.. Some might have misconceptions due to legal prostitution, but in reality, Thailand is safe for solo or duo female travelers. I went flashpacking with my mom and didn’t encounter any issues. Walking streets at night felt secure for women; just standard precautions applied.

Tips to avoid Tourist Scams in Thailand

• Scammers often hang around tourist attraction exits, flashing smiles and pitching useless day trips or silly shows – Be wary of places like Tiger parks or shows masquerading as “art.”
• Not all dance shows and those gardens that look fancy on images might not be worth your time or money.
• Activities involving animals like elephant safaris, snakes on shoulders, or touching tigers might seem cool, but animals could be drugged for tourist interaction.
• Look out for common scams involving taxi/tuk-tuk fares, counterfeit currency, and purchases of gems and silk.
• If eyeing gems or silk, avoid relying on tuk-tuk drivers to guide you to shops. Do your research and seek advice before splashing out big bucks.
• If your accommodation is in a tourist hotspot, it’s wise not to leave your passport in your room. A friend faced a scam in Bangkok where housekeepers allegedly took it and demanded money to return it.

Tips to stay safe while travelling in Thailand

The usual safety measures apply: avoid isolated dark streets, be cautious with late-night drinks and strangers, and steer clear of drugs. Mainly, take care of your passport and money!

Explore our article “ Two Indian Women Exploring Phuket Walking Street ” ─ a significant part of our Thailand travel guide, sharing our experience in the bustling streets of Siam – It is one of the most read and popular stories of vacaywork.

8. Practical Travel Tips for the Thailand

Mobile sim and connectivity.

We grabbed a couple of True Move sims at Bangkok airport. They offer cool packages with 4G data and awesome international call plans for tourists. Thailand Hotel Wi-Fi wasn't top-notch, and free Wi-Fi in public spots or cafes was pretty scarce.

Plug Sockets and Adapters

Thailand has TYPE A, B & C. Check if your country needs a plug adapter here . I carry a universal adapter.

Tipping Culture

In Thailand, tipping isn’t standard practice, especially at restaurants. During yacht and boat trips, they often have a tip collection box, but it’s totally up to you whether to chip in. Still, if you’ve had a fantastic meal or service, adding a little something extra is a lovely gesture to show appreciation, especially for hard-working ladies.

9. Amenities

Public toilet policy.

In Thailand, most public toilets are clean, have European Water Closets. Sometimes you might find squatty-potties too. But the good thing is, their toilets usually come with a jet spray for rinsing along with tissue paper. The vast majority of public toilets are free but every once in a while you will have to pay a small fee to use a toilet .

The funny thing is, every darn EWC we used in Thailand does this quirky thing after you flush. The solid and liquid stuff rises up from the bottom of the bowl almost to the seat and then disappears down the drain. Then, like magic, half the bowl fills up with fresh water. It feels like the person before you forgot to flush, but it’s just how these toilets work!

Is Thailand Clean

Thailand is fairly clean. The remote villages in Sukhothai had roads that were free of garbage. Chiang Mai stood out as the cleanest and most peaceful spot. Bangkok, one of the world’s top 40 densely populated cities and the second most-visited by tourists, surprisingly keeps its streets almost trash-free. Even at busy places like the Grand Palace, the streets were spotless.

The excessive use of plastic bags for every little thing we bought really bugged me. It’s causing a waste management crisis lately. The Thai government is working hard to maintain clean beaches. But Railay and Krabi’s packed beaches are starting to look like they might turn into dumps in about ten years if they don’t get proper care.

Street Food safety in Thailand

Now, street food might look super tempting for meat lovers. But it’s not as safe as Amsterdam nor as dodgy as Egypt or India’s street food . So, in Chiang Mai, we went with our gut and tried some steamed and baked street bites. They were not just tasty but also pretty healthy.

10. Thailand Food and Alcohol Etiquette

Thai cuisine overview.

Thailand is a haven for non-veg food, and Ashrith can’t get enough of it. Yet, Thailand also offers an abundance of delicious veg options. Street food, especially in hygienic spots, is mostly safe to try. A typical Thai breakfast often features rice, boiled until it’s similar to porridge (or ‘Ganji’ in my language), served with a variety of meat choices.

Tips to Vegetarian Dining in Thailand

if you’re into veggie options, Thailand’s got some yummy stuff like Thai-style rolls, steamed coconut pudding, and tofu that hit the spot. And their fruit game is strong─from pineapples to mangoes, it’s all about that healthy fruit fix throughout the day even at 7/11!

There’s a whole array of curry-based veggie dishes, and you can always request fried rice minus the meat. While there are several non-veg dishes like “Som Tam” or Thai papaya salad, you can ask for a vegetarian version without fish oil.

For picky eaters seeking Indian cuisine, Bangkok and Phuket are brimming with Indian restaurants serving Jain food. But why stick to Idli or Dhal Bati when you can indulge in Mango Sticky Rice and Pad Thai?

Check out our “ Vegetarian’s Guide to Thailand Food ” a delicious part of Thailand travel guide that helps vegetarian travellers find the right and good Thai food.

Drinking Culture and Smoking in Thailand

There aren’t strict alcohol restrictions in Thailand. You’ll find Thai beer at beachside cafes and street food spots. It’s pretty common to see tourists strolling around places like Pattaya or Khao San with a beer in hand. However, carrying alcohol is a no-go in specific areas like temples, public offices, petrol stations, and public parks.

As for smoking, it’s generally prohibited in public spaces, but beachside cafes usually have designated smoking zones. Interestingly, aside from a few tourists, we didn’t spot many Thai folks smoking in public.

Found our Thailand Travel Tips and Guide useful? Let us know in the comment section below.

Architect Turned Travel Writer - Explore historical places, eats lot of veg food and experience new culture to expand the horizon

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Thailand Travel Cost: 3 Weeks in Thailand for a Family of 5

Researching Thailand travel cost? You’ve come to the right place! We spent 3 weeks in Thailand as a family of 5, and below we’ll break down where we traveled and how much we spent, plus a summary of our overall travel expenses.

Thailand is a country that’s rich in culture, cuisine, and adventure! If you’re planning a family vacation to this beautiful country, you’ll be glad you did. From the South to the North, there’s so much to explore!

You can use travel credit cards to earn points towards flights, accommodations and more. Learn more about our top 6 favorite travel credit cards here!

With so much to see and do, you might be wondering where to start and how much a trip like this might cost for your family. You can use this 3 week itinerary to plan for your trip, as it’s full of must-see destinations and activities to help you plan and know what to expect. Then we breakdown the cost for each category for you.

3 Week Thailand Family Itinerary + Thailand Travel Cost

Day 1-3: Phuket

• We highly recommend the Arinara Beach Resort in Bang Tao Beach
• Bang Tao is a very laid back town with good restaurants
• Only 30 min. from Patong Beach to Old Phuket Town
• It’s best to visit Old Town during the day with kids
• Plan to spend a couple of hours at Big Buddha and the viewing area
• Visit the Way Chalong Temple Area after coming down from Big Buddha

Click here to learn more about Phuket from our Phuket Family Travel Guide.

Cost of our Trip to Phuket

One way Flights from Sri Lanka to Phuket: $685 (5 people via AirAsia)

Ground Transportation: $62 (we used a company called No plan Phuket)

Accommodations: $74/ Day (Arinara Beach Resort, Free Breakfast)

Food: $80/ Day (5 people – Lunch + Dinner + Snacks)

Laundry: $22 (5 kilos which was most of our entire wardrobe)

Looking for a Villa in Phuket? Check out The Best Family-Friendly Villas in Phuket

Day 4-7: Phi Phi Islands

• There should be a member of your hotel staff there to help you to your place
• We recommend Saii Phi Phi Island Village , as it is a great property for families
• This will be one of your favorite activities of your entire time in Thailand
• Be sure to get a Private Boat Tour, so that you can stop when and where you want
• We found a great spot on the beach called Slinky’s to watch the show
• Most places will ask you to purchase a drink while you sit and watch
• We booked this the day of with Maiyada Private Longtail Boat Tours

Click here to learn more about traveling to Phi Phi Islands in our Phi Phi Islands Family Travel Guide

Cost of our Trip to the Phi Phi Islands

Ferry from Phuket: $75 (5 people from the Rassada Harbour)

• be sure to have some small cash for Phi Phi Ton Sai Pier when you get off the ferry

Accommodations: $47/ Day (Family Room at P.P. Maiyada Resort)

Food: $72/ Day (5 people – Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

All-Day Longtail Boat Tours: $109/ Day (5 People – Full-Day Private Boat Tour)

Day 8-11: Krabi

• We recommend the Holiday Style Ao Nang Beach right near the Night Market
• Check out the Ao Nang Night Market for dinner (this is a great way to save money)
• The boats run to and from Railay all day from Ao Nang Beach
• These tours are done best with a guide that can be booked in advance
• Allow a full day to see both, along with the Tiger Cave Temple
• The Hong Islands is another very special day that will be a highlight of your trip

Click here to learn more about traveling to Krabi with in our Krabi Thailand Family Travel Guide

Cost of Our Trip in Krabi

Ferry from Phi Phi: $70 (5 people – Ao Ton Sai Pier)

Ground Transportation: $45 (again we used No Plan Phuket to book the taxi from port and to airport)

Longtail Boat Taxi to Railay: $28 (you can pick these up at the Ao Nang Longtail Boat Service Club )

Longtail Boat Tour: $71/ Day (we rented this boat from Ao Nang Beach)

Accommodations: $63/ Day (2 rooms at the Holiday Style in Ao Nang )

Food: $67/ Day (5 people – Breakfast + Lunch + Dinners)

Did you know you can book flights for FREE? We flew to Paris as a family of 5 for just $18! Learn the exact step-by-step instructions of how we did it here.

Day 12-16: Chiang Mai

• There’s lots of great AirBnB’s in Chang Mai in the Nimman Road Area
• Here’s the exact villa that we stayed called Boxsoon Nimman 2
• Day 13: Visit Doi Suthep Temple and explore the Old Town
• We highly recommend Elephant Freedom Project
• There are some amazing waterfalls like Huay Kaew
• We highly recommend Zabb E Lee Cooking School

Click here to learn more about traveling to Chiang Mai in our Chiang Mai Family Travel Guide

Cost of Our Time in Chiang Mai

Flights from Krabi: $210 (5 people via AirAsia)

Ground Transportation: $62 (we only took a handful of GrabCar rides, otherwise we walked)

Accommodations: $ 87/ Day (4 bedroom townhome with full kitchen)

Food: $83/ Day (5 people – breakfast + lunch + dinner)

Cooking School: $85 (3 people + 2 “observers/tasters”)

Thai Massages: $7/ massage (adults only)

Nails: $40 (4 mani pedis for all the girls)

Laundry: Free (laundry at townhome)

Day 17-21: Bangkok

• We recommend the DoubleTree by Hilton in Sukhumvit or Seekers Finders Rama IV
• Sukhumvit is a great neighborhood for kids, with lots of parks and playgrounds
• Wat Pho was such a great surprise, we spent several hours there
• The girls really enjoyed the parks more than anticipated, as they are all unique
• These malls have so much to offer other than just shopping, there’s even schools
• Terminal 21 has a different famous world city theme on every level
• Day 21: Take a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya or explore local markets and sample street food

Click here to learn more about traveling to Bangkok in our Bangkok Family Travel Guide

Cost for Our Time in Bangkok

Flights from Chang Mai: $175 (5 people via AirAsia)

Ground Transportation: $35 (BTS + MRT + GrabCar)

Accommodations: $75/ Day (Seekers Finders Rama IV)

Food: $98/ Day (5 people – breakfast + lunch + dinner + snacks)

HarborLand: $65 (5 people entrance fee to play for 3 hours)

Overall Thailand Travel Cost for the 3 Weeks in Thailand

A trip to Thailand with your family is a perfect way to bond and create unforgettable memories. From temple visits to water activities and awesome wildlife encounters, this trip will be a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Thailand Travel Cost (family of five):

Flights: $1,070

Transportation: $307

Accommodations: $1,735

Restaurants + Cafes : $985

Groceries: $137

Sightseeing/ Activities: $470

Total for 3 Weeks: $4,704

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The Only 15 Day Itinerary to Thailand That You Need!

Thailand is a favourite foreign destination among Indian tourists, and for good reason–it is easy on the pocket and it’s the ultimate party hub. All this is fused with beautiful sights of pristine beaches and islands, some of which rank best in the world.

So if you want a vacation that packs in all kinds of fun, here’s a two-week itinerary which is your ultimate guide to having the most memorable time in Thailand.

Day 1: Arrive at Bangkok

The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is an eclectic combination of the modern and traditional. Home to the royal family, Bangkok boasts of delightful architecture, wats and palaces. At the same time, it has some of the best bars, shopping hubs and malls, making the capital a happening destination, ideal for every kind of traveller

Places to visit:

The grand palace.

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Start your day with a visit to The Grand Palace which serves as the seat of the world-famous Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace is a massive complex with delightful architectural structure. Take a walk through these imposing structures and peep into Thailand’s royal life, their rich history and traditions.

ASIATIQUE The Riverfront

Image credit: JE Kim

This is a river front arena that is a spectacle to witness during sunset. Asiatique comprises of numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and is also great for street shopping, especially to take mementos back home. As you enter Asiatique, shops are lined on both sides, selling famous Thai orgnanic scented soaps, high-end fashion and little trinkets. You can also enjoy a cruise along the river, enjoy a ride on the ferris wheel or end your day with a massage. Do have a meal at Baan Kanita By The River, which offers view of the river and serves amazing salads.

The Dome at State Tower

Image credit: Cesar Garcia Pont

Alfresco 64, located at Lebua the State Tower is Bangkok’s finest rooftop bar, situated at a whopping height of 800ft. ie. on the 64th floor! This is the highest rooftop whiskey bar in the entire world. The bar overlooks the skyline of Bangkok, making for a fantastic view and a groovy time. During evenings, there is a live jazz band that plays by a balcony located high up. This is sure to be the best experience of your trip in Bangkok.

Platinum fashion mall

This is a 6-floor mega-mall that specialises in retail and wholesale clothes, fashion jewellery, make-up, shoes, bags and every other fashion need that you may have. At Platinum, each floor is dedicated to a certain kind of product, and it goes without saying that you can easily spend your entire day here without getting bored. You’ll find the latest of fashion trends at extremely affordable prices. If you get hungry, there are tonnes of stalls located outside the mall where you can eat, along with chains like McDonalds and KFC.

Khaosan Road

Image credit: Kate Ewig

This is the most happening night street in Bangkok that is well-known among backpackers and those who want a typical Bangkok experience. The street is lined with numerous open restaurants and bars. Here you’ll find the craziest of stuff like laughing gas being sold at ₹30, a bucket (served in literally a bucket) of mixed drinks at only ₹200 and drinking and music competitions at every bar. There are also various spas located after every bar, so when you get tired of drinking, you can get a massage and get ready to paint the town red again. Parallel to Khao San, is a street which is ideal if you’re into live bands, there’s a different rock or Jazz band playing at every bar, prefect for a laid back evening.

Getting around:

Taxis are easily available throughout Bangkok, you can also use the well-connected metro to travel across the city.

How to get here:

There are various airlines like Jet Airways, Air India, Spice Jet and THAI airlines that connect Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok; prices start at only ₹7,000

Where to stay:

Siri poshtel bangkok.

Image credit: booking.com

At Siri poshtel, alongside an array of rooms to choose from, there are services like a full-fledged cafe, common room, television and laundry service. Located at a prime location, almost all the main sight-seeing spots are a tuk-tuk ride away from here. Moreover, Siri poshtel is only a short walk away from Khao San Road, the party hub of Bangkok, so of course it gets some bonus points just for that!

Pattaya City

Day 3: leave for pattaya.

This is the closest beach destination to Bangkok located just 2 hours' drive away (147km) from the capital. The best and cheapest option is to take a bus from Ekkamai BTS station on Sukhumvit Road at Soi 63 which will cost you only 117tbh ie. approximately ₹250 only! Buses leave every thirty minutes, starting from 5:30 am - 12 am.

Things to Do:

Pattaya floating market train station.

Image credit: Wikidmedia Commons

Pattaya Floating Market This is a massive 100,000sqm arena that comprises of more than a hundred stalls selling souvenirs, art, and handicrafts. Get around this floating market on a boat, and access shops through connecting bridges, this is truly a unique shopping experience .

Pattaya Beach

Image credit: TWNN

This 4km long beach is a must-visit while in Pattaya. Spend the day here sunbathing, jet skiing or enjoying pristine waters of the beach. Enjoy a variety of cuisines at various cafes, restaurants, shacks located right at the beach.

Khao Chi Chan Buddha

This is one of the largest Buddha carvings in the world. The carving is embossed in gold on a limestone mountain that is as tall as 130m and spans across 70m in width. The mountain is a sight to behold, complimented by beautiful landscaping that has been done around the mountain. There’s a lake right in front of the mountain and breathtaking gardens where you can saunter along. Located 6km from Sukhumvit road, a cab ride to Buddha Mountain will cost you 500tbh ie.₹1,000

Koh Larn Island

Day 4: day trip to koh larn.

Image credit: Max Pixel

This is a coral island that is located a ferry ride away from Pattaya Beach, away from mainstream crowds and chaos of Pattaya. Plan to reach Koh Larn in the morning so that you have enough time to explore the island through the day. This island is ideal for those looking for a quiet, serene and paradise-like retreat. Here, you can explore adventure activities like speedboat riding, jet skiing, banana boat ride and parasailing. The water around the island is sparkling blue, thus making it ideal for snorkelling. If you just want to relax, you can spend the day sun-bathing, getting your hair braided or getting your body tattooed in henna.

Return to Pattaya by evening.

Walking Street

Image credit: Mohd. Faisal Md Noor

At night, you can visit the walking street, which is located at the end of Pattaya Beach road. This walking street is lined with nightclubs, bar, restaurants, and witnesses various kinds of street performances. This is one of Thailand’s most famous streets, so plan to reach by 6pm, when the street comes alive and party till wee hours of the night.

Citrus Parc Hotel Pattaya by Compass Hospitality

Image credit: Booking.com

Located only 10 minutes' drive from Pattaya Walking Street, Citrus Parc Hotel is affordable, and yet offers luxuries like a pool-side bar, rooftop bar and ideal vacation rooms. Room prices range between ₹3500 - ₹6000 (breakfast not included).

Day 5: Leave for Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most visited island, famous for its pristine beaches and mountains. There are about 30 beaches, located along the western shore that you can choose from. The best option is to take a flight from U-Tapao International Airport, Pattaya to Phuket International Airport, Phuket. Tickets can range anywhere between ₹1500 - ₹3500.

Places to Visit:

Phang nga bay.

Image Credit: pexels.com

This bay offers sights of a unique landscape that is going to be one that you’ll remember forever. The emerald green waters of the bay sport tall limestone cliffs that jut out of it. A boat ride through Phand Nga Bay thus, must be on your bucket list. Explore caves and hongs as you tour across the bay; these hongs are rich in untouched flora and fauna and make for bewildering sights.

James Bond Island

You can also visit James Bond Island which gained prominence after the 'Man With the Golden Sun' was shot here. From James Bond island, you can take a bus to Koh Panyee. Koh Panyee is a quaint village that is abundant in handcrafts, sea-facing restaurants and shacks where you can enjoy authentic Thai sea-food.

Night Market Patong

In the evening, you can soar though the famous night-market located in Patong. Here, you can buy super-cheap souvenirs, mementos and handcrafts to take back home. The night market is also lined with bas, restaurants and pubs where you can sway to music and watch street performances

Day 6: Day Trip to Krabi and Phi Phi

Leave early morning to visit the highly famed Krabi and Phi-Phi islands that are must-visits from Phuket.

Image credit: Lim Ashley

Krabi’s wild landscape lies in stark contrast to Phuket’s manicured beaches and thus, takes you closer to unadulterated nature. You can book a seat from Phuket-Krabi in a government-run bus that will charge only 200tbh (₹400) for this 4 hour journey. You can also hire a cab, which will cost you about 3000-4000 tbh (₹6000-₹8000). Once at Krabi, you can take a ferry ride along to its various beaches.

Phi Phi Islands

From Krabi, lies Thailand’s second largest island, Phi Phi island, which is a must-visit. This is an uninhabited island with coral seas, dreamy, sandy beaches and clifftops covered in foliage; Phi Phi is a heaven right out of your dreams. You can opt for an organised Phi Phi boat tour, which can be settled either at Phuket or once you’re at Phi Phi. At Phi-Phi, you must try deep sea diving which is an activity of prime attraction. You can choose from King Cruiser Wreck, Shark Point and Anemone Reef diving points that are renowned for their professional instructors and equipment.

Return to Phuket by night.

This quaint property is located in Old Phuket town, providing you an experience of an old world charm. While you hop around from island to island, this property will serve as a peaceful and quiet haven. The continental breakfast at Le Hua is a top favourite among guests. Prices range only from ₹1500- ₹1700 (breakfast included)

Day 7: Chiang Mai

After extensive island hopping, you are bound to be tired the sun, salt and water; so a trip to the mountains would do you good. Chiang Mai, Thailand's second largest city, with mountains that are as majestic as the lagoons of Krabi. It is know as the Rse Take an early morning flight from Phuket International Airport to Chiang Mai International Airport which costs ₹4500 onwards.

Wat Chedi Luang

Spend the day exploring the Old City; the architecture is unique and different from any other place in Thailand that you may have visited. Wat Chedi Luang, a 14th century Buddhist temple. It is renowned for hosting the Phra Yok , a black, Jade statue of the Buddha. Wat Chedi comprises of two more temples that you can spend your afternoon exploring.

Chiang Mai Night Market

Image credit:Paul Arps

By evening, take a stroll along the night market where you can shop for mementos, clothes, get a massage and eat at the numerous restaurants and cafes the market has to offer. The night market bustles with life and is an experience you cannot have in India. It remains open from 4pm - 12am.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Visit Wat Phra Doi Suthep which is one of the most sacred monastries in North-Thailand. Located on a mountain top that is about 15km from Chiang Mai, this temple is a magnificent exemplum of Thailand architecture. It is flanked by seven snape-heads that line the temple's entrance. What's even more exciting is that you need to climb about 306 steps to get to the temple, however, the effort is totally worth it for the beautiful views it provides of Chiang Mai city.

Chiang Mai Night Safari Zoo

Image credit: Simon17964

By night, you can take the Chiang Mai Night Safari which is something everyone of all ages will enjoy. This Safari is not a mainstream safari through jungles, but it organises various shows where you can experience wildlife like bear, smooth-coated otter, porcupine, wild boar, hyenas, tigers and lions. Although this is open throughout the day, it is best to take safaris through 5pm-10pm.

The Grand Napat Serviced Apartment Chiangmai

Located right in the middle of Chiang Mai city, The Grand Napat is an opulent listing that is close to the airport, walking street and most tourist attractions of the city. The hotel has an outdoor pool, done up in modern interiors and serves American and Thai cuisines. Cost of a room at The Grand Napat ranges between ₹3500- ₹10,000 (breakfast included).

Located further up north, closer to Myanmar border, Pai is an absolutely gorgeous place that fuses cultures of both Myanmar and Thailand. Pai is rife with natural beauty; waterfalls, hot springs and open fields all throughout. From Chiang Mai, it is best to take a bus, which will take about 90tbh, ie. about ₹200 only. The trip will take about 4 hours to complete.

Mo Paeng Waterfall

Image credit: Aleksander Zykov

Once you reach by afternoon, visit the Mo Paeng Falls that from typical Thailand lagoons that you might have seen in pictures. Slide down the rocks of this waterfall, bathe underneath it and swim with the fish! From here, you can walk to another secluded waterfall called Pombok, which is surrounded with really high cliffs.

A little walk from Pombok lies a mysterious land where over a period of time, a split was created in the earth due to some kind of soil erosion. The owner of the land now runs a tiny shop where you can stop over for bite and some drinks; and walk around exploring the split.

Image credit: Simpleewonderer

You can then head to Pai Canyon, which is commonly referred to as the Grand Canyon of Thailand. The canyon offers beautiful sights of untouched green lands that sprawl across as far as the eyes can see. This is an ideal location to watch the sunset of your dreams!

Pai has a lot more in store, so today you can visit some more exciting places.

Tha Pai Hot Spring

Image credit: Ilf_

This is something you must do, especially if you're visiting during winter. The Tha Pai Hot Springs are located 7km away from the main city, where water runs over extremely hot rocks, that remain so even during winter months. Soak in the hot springs as long as you like and enjoy the natural beauty it is surrounded by.

Mae Hong Son

About 35km further away, towards Mae Hong Son, lie the mysterious Spirit Caves. These are structures made of limestone that are formed over a river. You can take a boat ride over the river that will take you through these lakes. The caves also have ladders that you can climb up to explore stalactites at leisure. The insides of the caves are also lined with ancient painting and ceramics.

Return to Pai, and explore the area around your resort on foot or visit the walking street.

Baan Pai Riverside Resort

Located right at the bank of river Pai, the Ban Pai riverside resort is also close to Pai walking street. At an extremely affordable price, the resort brings you closer to nature, with verdant greenery and gardens that are blanketed in colourful flowers. Rooms range from ₹800 - ₹3500; breakfast is included.

Today, you return to Bangkok; there are various flights from Pai Airport to Suwarnabhumi airport, which is just a 2 hours' journey. This will cost about ₹1500 onwards.

Things to do:

The emporium.

Spend your entire day at Bangkok's biggest and best malls, Emquartier, Emporium and Siam Paradise that have stores of all the best brands in the world. You can shop everything ranging from HnM and Zara to Chanel, Jimmy Choo and Tiffany & Co. There is also a Sea World in the mall, the grandest movie hall that you'll ever see and some great restaurants to eat at. Usually, there's also an exhibition going on at these malls where you can purchase more affordable products.

Above Eleven แขวง คลองตันเหนือ Watthana

By night, you can visit Above Eleven, an exquisite rooftop bar that is centrally located and offers amazing views of the city. It's the ideal place to enjoy late night drinks and party in style!

Day 12: Kanchanaburi

This day you can leave for Kanchanaburi, a town located west of Thailand, about 2 hours away from Bangkok. The best way to undertake this journey is to take a taxi that will take you there in just ₹2000.

In this town, lies the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai that you must have read about in history books or watched the eminent war film that goes by the same name. The bridge has now been retained to become a highly-rated tourist attraction. The river beneath is beautiful, with several over-water Thai restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Thai food. You can even take a tour of the river on a speedboat which is sure to be an amazing experience.

JEATH War Museum

Right next to the bridge is the Jeath War Museum, that commemorates the powers that were involved in Bridge on the River Kwai : Japanese, English, Australian, American, Thai and Holland. It depicts the construction of the JEATH railways, the conditions during that time and also displayed various relics, weapons, paintings and drawings by former prisoners.

Library Café

Have a meal at Library Cafe , which has an eclectic variety of Thai food that you must try. The ambience is classy, and yet, the food is affordable.

Day 13: Erawan National Park

Today, you can leave for Erawan National Park that is located only 50 minutes from Kanchanaburi. An exciting way to undertake this journey is to hire a songatheaw, which is a Thai version of a temp0-traveller. This will cost you just ₹1400 for a round trip. If you aren't in an adventurous mood, you can alternatively hire a cab that will cost about ₹3500-₹4000 for a round trip.

Erawan Falls

Image credit: Ian Bunyan

At the park, visit Erawan Falls which is a splendid waterfall that creates clear emerald green pools in which you can take a swim. The falls is also a great site for bird watching and you can spot species like crested serpent eagle, black-naped monarch and blue-winged leafbird.

You can also opt for a safari around the park that will take you to habitats of elephants, wild deer, monitor lizards, and Indochinese sero.

The park closes by 5pm, so plan you return accordingly.

Return to Kachanaburi by evening, relax in your resort or take a walk around exploring street food!

Good Times Resort Ban Tai

This resort is located only 3km from River Kwai and is 10 mins away from the main city of Kanchanaburi. The resort offers spa and massage facilities, a swimming pool and has packages for various tours that you can explore. Cooking classes are also organised in case you're a cooking aficionado and want to learn cooking the Thai way. A room here will cost you starting from ₹2500-₹5500 (breakfast included).

Day 14: Return to Bangkok

You can leave for Bangkok after breakfast and check in to your hotel before lunch.

Places to visit

Today you can visit Si Lom arcade, that has restaurants and cafes from around the world. You can enjoy Pav Bhaji and a road-side stall, South Indian food at Suvarnabhavan or the best of stews at Mohsen, an Iranian restaurant.

You can then head to Lumphini Park, that is located only 5 minutes away from Silom. This park has been hailed as one of Bangkok's best parks. You would never imagine that such a rich and abundant park would be located in the heart of a city filled with skyscrapers. You can walk around the park, take a boat ride in the lake, hire a cycle to go around the park or join an open-air Zumba class that is free and open for all. The lush green gardens laden in colourful flowers is a sight to behold especially during sunset. This experience is the ideal bye-bye to Thailand.

Head back to Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi from Suwarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok. Your trip hasn't yet ended, because there's still the happiness of shopping from duty-free!

Follow this 15-day itinerary and ensure that your precious two-weeks at Thailand do not go waste. By the end of the trip, you would have lounged at world's best beaches, ferried across the most fantastic islands, partied like you never have before, and of course, gorged on the best Thai food of all times.

Know of more such holiday destinations and have a detailed itinerary to share? Write your story by creating a blog on Tripoto today! For more travel inspiration, visit Tripoto's YouTube channel.

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Day10: HUAHIN (B) Breakfast + Freen easy

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Thailand Trip Cost: 10 Days In Thailand On A Budget

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 20, 2023

Categories Thailand

Thailand is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia and a popular destination for all types of travelers. This isn't surprising as Thailand has a lot going for it like friendly people, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich heritage.

If you are like me and like doing a little research before traveling to a country, you are probably interested in the approximate Thailand trip cost. Personally, I was very interested in how much money we would need to travel around Thailand.

It turned out that, despite being a tourist destination for many years, travel in Thailand is still pretty cheap! Or at least it can be, it all depends on your personal preference and choices.

You can go all out, stay in fancy 5-star hotels and resorts and go on interesting organized tours with private transport.

Or you can travel around Thailand on a budget, eat cheap (but delicious) street food and stay at budget (but quality) hotels and hostels.

Thailand trip budget

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

How much is a trip to Thailand?

In this Thailand budget article, you can find all our Thailand expenses. So if you are wondering how much money to bring to Thailand for your trip, this is the perfect post for you!

During our first trip to Thailand, we spent approximately 2200THB / €60 / $67 per day as a couple. We traveled to Thailand on a backpacker budget and tried to keep our expenses as low as possible.

We've returned to Thailand several times since then, and during these trips, our budget was higher. We stayed at several 4 and 5-star hotels, did a couple of organized tours and during our most recent Thailand trip, we traveled with our kids.

I wasn't as precise in budget keeping as during our first trip, but my estimate was that our daily average was closer to 3500THB / €100 / $107.

So is Thailand cheap or expensive? It can be both, but it's up to you and the choices you make! In the infographic below you can find more detailed information about the cost of a trip to Thailand.

How to travel Thailand on a budget?

The infographic gives you a quick overview of how much (or actually how little) you can spend during your trip to Thailand.

But it's important to remember that the amount you'll spend depends on your travel style, the length of your trip, and the type of accommodation you choose.

That being said, compared to countries such as Japan , New Zealand , Canada , and Europe , Thailand is still a very affordable destination.

Are you still wondering how much money to take to Thailand for 10 days?

Generally speaking, you can travel around Thailand on a budget of $35-$70 per day (per person). As you can see in the infographic, we spent $67 per day as a couple.

It's important to note that this infographic is based on the daily budget in Thailand for our first trip (the budget backpacker trip).

Further down in the post, you can find more details about the cost of accommodation, transport, food and drinks, and activities.

Thailand travel budget: important facts and figures

• I traveled around Thailand with my husband, all expenses are for the two of us together.
• During our first trip to Thailand, we spent 10 days in the country.
• I quote prices in Thai Baht as well as Euros (€) and US Dollars ($). When we were in Thailand, €1 was around 37THB and $1 around 33THB, but as the exchange rate varies this might be a little different now. You can check the current exchange rate on XE.com .
• Thailand is one of the best cheap destinations for couples . In total, we spent 22220 THB (€600/$670) during the 10 days we were in Thailand. As such, our Thailand travel budget per day comes down to an average of 2222THB (€60/$67) and includes almost all expenses in  Thailand. Please note that flights to Thailand are not included in the budget.
• Also, as with my budget breakdowns for the Philippines and Malaysia , I excluded the costs of scuba diving on Koh Tao . I feel this would not be a fair representation of the average cost per day in Thailand. Diving is (relatively) expensive and not everyone will go diving in Thailand, therefore, I excluded these costs from the Thailand budget.

Thailand budget travel tips

When planning a Thailand budget trip, your total Thailand travel costs all depend on your way of traveling.

In general, the slower you travel, the lower your average daily costs. Street food is cheaper than European food or eating in restaurants.

Drinking alcohol will increase your Thailand budget per day. Tuk-tuks and taxis are more expensive than public transport. And so on.

This budget breakdown includes 2 flights, and even though they were very cheap flights it still increased the average daily costs.

Also, despite the fact that we were budget travelers, we spent the final two nights of our 10 days in Thailand at the luxurious Tarna Align Resort on the tropical island of Koh Tao.

This was by far the most expensive accommodation of our 5-month trip , however, it was worth every bath because we wanted to end our trip in style. And who doesn't like a semi-private pool with a beautiful view…

Daily travel expenses in Thailand

Now that you know the most important facts and figures of our Thailand budget, it's time for a deep dive into our Thailand travel expenses. Our daily travel budget can be divided into four categories:

• Accommodation: 39% of our daily travel costs
• Transportation: 20% of our daily travel costs
• Food&Drinks: 39% of our daily travel costs
• Paid activities: 2% of our daily travel costs

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

1. How much does accommodation cost in Thailand?

Of the 10 days, I spent in Thailand I only slept in hotels for 8 nights. I spent one night on the boat from Koh Tao to Surat Thani and allocated these costs to transport.

On my last day in Thailand, I took a flight home in the middle of the night so we didn't have accommodation costs for that night either.

We stayed in a private room (no dorm rooms) at 5 different hotels and spent  850THB / €23 / $25,50  on accommodation on an average travel day. The total amount we spent on accommodation was 8500THB / €230 / $255.

In the table below you can find 3 of the 5 hotels, I stayed at. I only included the places I recommend, so I haven't included the 2 hotels that I wouldn't return to myself.

2. How much does transportation cost in Thailand?

Let’s take a closer look at transportation in Thailand. There are many ways to travel around the country, such as trains, buses, taxis, tuk tuks, minivans, ferries, and of course the BTS and MRT trains in Bangkok.

One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel in Thailand is taking a night train .

You'll save money on accommodation because you're taking a sleeper train. Plus, you'll save valuable time by covering (large) distances at night, so you can see more of Thailand.

Another budget-friendly way to travel in Thailand is by catching a local bus . Bus services are available in all of the major cities and most of the smaller towns as well.

This is a great way to explore parts of Thailand where there aren't any train tracks (such as the more rural areas of the country).

A quick note: when traveling in Thailand (and Southeast Asia in general), you need to be prepared for delays. Most of these delays will be relatively short but sometimes your train, bus or minivan can be delayed for hours (without anyone offering an explanation).

The easiest way to get from A to B in Thailand is by booking your transportation ticket via 12Go Asia . This is an online platform where you can book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, minivans, and private transfers all around Southeast Asia.

I've used 12Go Asia several times and had great experiences with both the ease of booking on the platform itself as well as their fast and friendly customer service when I needed to amend our booking.

For example, you can use 12Go Asia to book tickets from:

• Ferry tickets from Donsak Pier (Surat Thani) to Koh Samui ( check availability here )
• Train or bus tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai ( check availability here )
• Train ticket from Surat Thani to Bangkok ( check availability here )

How much did we spend on transportation in Thailand?

Our average transportation costs were 450THB(€12/$14) per day and the total cost of transport was 4500THB (€120/$140).

3. How much does food cost in Thailand?

Thailand is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine! The key to Thai cuisine is its balance of five essential flavors: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter.

This balance of flavors is achieved through a careful blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. Each dish is a unique combination of these flavors and ingredients, making Thai cuisine both complex and delicious.

Some of the best things to try are the various curries, Pad Thai, Som Tam (spicy green papaya salad), Khao Man Gai (chicken and rice), Tom Yum soup, and mango sticky rice.

How much did we spend on food and drinks in Thailand?

Good news: the food in Thailand is not only really tasty, but it’s also very cheap! That is if you eat local food at local restaurants.

Eating Western Food always triples the price of dinner when traveling around Southeast Asia.

So when it comes to food, explore the local markets to find inexpensive meals and try delicious street food whenever you have the chance.

Anyway, let’s talk numbers .

On an average day, we spent 870THB (€23,60/$26) on food and drinks. Our total costs for food and drinks were 8700THB (€236/$260).

Also read: 10 best places to eat in Maenam

4. How much do tours and activities cost in Thailand?

When you’re in Thailand, make sure to take advantage of all the free activities the country has to offer, like exploring Buddhist temples, local markets, National Parks, and pretty beaches.

Doing so will help you make the most of your vacation while still sticking to a tight budget.

When planning your Thailand trip, it's also worth looking into tour companies that offer (discounted) activities that can help you save money while still getting the best experience.

Klook is the largest tour operator in Southeast Asia, but Get Your Guide has been working really hard on growing their SEA offers as well so be sure to check out those websites as well when you're planning your Thailand activities.

Some of the most worthwhile tours and activities in Thailand are:

• Bangkok city tour with a local guide : immerse yourself in the cultural and historical heritage of Bangkok by exploring the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Check availability .
• Damnoen Saduak market and Maeklong railway market (day trip from Bangkok): arrive at the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market by paddleboat and discover the vibrant atmosphere of the iconic Maeklong Railway Market. Check availability .
• Erawan National Park and Kanchanaburi tour (day trip from Bangkok): soak up Thai history on this guided day trip to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok in a climate-controlled bus. Visit Erawan National Park, the JEATH Museum, and the Bridge over the river Kwai. Check availability .
• Ayutthaya day tour from Bangkok : admire Thailand's history and cultural heritage on an exciting full-day adventure on this Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok! Check availability .
• Angthong Marine Park day trip from Koh Samui : experience the beautiful panorama view of Angthong Marine Park and snorkel at Koh Wao or Koh Tay Plow. Visit Emerald Lake, go kayaking, or hike up Mae Koh. Check availability .
• Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai : learn how to make delicious Thai food and discover the secrets behind its unique flavors and tastes. Check availability .

How much did we spend on activities in Thailand?

We did an Advanced PADI Open Water Course on Koh Tao, but as I mentioned above, I didn't include the costs of this course in this Thailand budget breakdown as most people won't go scuba diving.

Besides diving, our only paid activities in Thailand were a visit to Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha, and going to a movie at the SF cinema.

The entrance fee for Wat Pho was 100THB per person and the SF Cinema at Terminal 21 was 160THB per ticket. We did many more activities, such as exploring Bangkok and Chiang Mai, but these were all free!

Our average activity costs per day were 52THB (€1,40/$1,50), and the total for activities comes down to 520THB (€14/$15).

5. Travel insurance costs

I didn't include the cost of travel insurance in our Thailand budget breakdown because we use our travel insurance for all our trips, not just for our Thailand itinerary.

However, that doesn't take away the fact that making sure you have proper travel insurance is super important .

It helps protect you and your belongings in the event of a mishap during your travels. Furthermore, it provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen items, and more.

Also, having good travel insurance will provide you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you have a safety net in place.

With so much to consider when planning a trip, having the right travel insurance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey without stressing out about things that can go wrong.

How to save money when planning a trip to Thailand

Now that you know the costs of a trip to Thailand, here are some practical tips about how to stretch your travel budget.

When it comes to saving money in Thailand, it's important to plan carefully, look for discounts, and be flexible with your itinerary to make the most of your travel budget for Thailand.

Avoid peak season (travel during the low season instead)

Start by researching the best time of year to visit Thailand as flight costs and hotel prices vary throughout the year.

The high season in Thailand is from November until February. During these months accommodation prices are at their highest.

So if you have the option to be flexible with your travel dates and able to travel during shoulder season, this is a great way to save money on your Thailand trip.

Save money on flights

You can look for the cheapest flight to Thailand on websites like Kiwi.com . Try different travel dates and see how this affects the price of your flight.

Generally, the cheapest days to fly are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Airlines often offer discounted fares on these days, so it's worth checking the booking sites and comparing prices on different days of the week.

You’ll get a better deal by booking your flight in advance. For domestic flights 1-3 months before your trip is ideal.

That being said, I booked our tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and from Surat Thani to Bangkok last minute (only a couple of days before our flight) and still managed to find a great deal (around $25 per person including luggage).

Reputable low-cost airlines in Thailand are Air Asia, Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Smile. It's often cheaper to fly to Don Mueang International Airport for domestic flights than to Suvarnabhumi Airport.

For international flights, it’s best to book 2-8 months in advance. Tickets to Bangkok are pretty much always the cheapest option but keep an eye open for tickets to Chiang Mai and Phuket as well.

Lastly, you may be able to find cheaper flights if you're willing to be flexible with your departure and arrival times.

Sure, it’s not ideal to arrive in the middle of the night, but if it saves you hundreds of dollars it’s worth losing one night of good sleep.

✈️ Click here to find the best ticket deals

Book your accommodation in advance

Once you've got your flights booked, it’s time to research accommodation options. I always use Agoda and Booking to find the best value-for-money accommodation for our trips.

I recommend checking both platforms before you book to make sure you get the best deals on hotel rooms.

What's great about accommodation in Thailand is that there are so many options for any budget.

There are luxurious 5-star resorts (such as the Kimpton Kitalay on Koh Samui ), family hotels with a playground (like the Kokotel Dheva Thonglor in Bangkok), modern boutique hotels (like the Owl Poshtel in Kanchanaburi) and affordable budget accommodation (like the Au Bon hostel in Bangkok)

Please note that Agoda includes taxes in their price whereas Booking doesn't always include this. Make sure to check this before finalizing your booking.

Also, Thailand charges a hefty ATM fee and has a limit on how much cash you can withdraw per transaction. Therefore, it can be better to book with Agoda as you can often pay online with your credit card (and reduce your need for cash).

Travel cost per day in Thailand: in conclusion

I hope this post has given you an insight into the costs of a trip to Thailand. If you have any questions, leave a comment or  send me a message .

Also check out my travel budget posts for Cambodia , Laos , and Vietnam !

This post was updated in December 2022 .

Monday 2nd of October 2017

awesome information here,you go with husband , what if one go alone ,how much it will cost, thanks

Tuesday 3rd of October 2017

Thank you, happy to hear you enjoyed the post! Well, that depends if you want to stay in a private room or a dorm. If you prefer a private room you'll probably spend around €50 per day. Accommodation costs will be similar to ours, but you'll spend a little less on transport, food and activities. If you stay in a dorm I think €35-40 per day would be doable. Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip:-).

Tuesday 15th of November 2016

Its Indeed very helpful to plan my trip with your post which will start on 25th Nov 2016 for 10 nights...can you suggest few more (must try) Thai street food ...

P.S:Thank you Miss Pad Thai..hahahaaaa

Wednesday 16th of November 2016

Thank, happy to help:-). Green Curry is one of my favorite dishes, as is green papaya salad. Kai Jeow is another great dish and mango sticky rice is a divine dessert... Basically, pretty much all Thai food is delicious! Enjoy your trip!

Andrea Leblang

Monday 7th of March 2016

This is such an informative post - love it! We are headed to Thailand for a few months this spring. Definitely bookmarking this for our time there. Great tips, thanks!

I am so happy to hear that Andrea, you are very welcome:-). I wish you an amazing trip in Thailand!

You're making me miss Thailand so bad!! I loved my time there and the fact that everything was so cheap. Especially the food. Mmm... pad thai...

I know... Pad Thai! I was dreaming about Pad Thai after writing this post;-P

Sunday 6th of March 2016

I've done Thailand on a budget so many times, but now I've fallen in love with its luxury side, and the bargain prices that go with it. Thailand really is a country for every traveller.

True, Thailand is very versatile and I loved our stay at the luxurious Tarna Align:-). But my travel funds are not sufficient to stay only in high-class resorts. And I actually don't mind, I like budget travel, particularly using public transport because it's how the locals get around as well.

Explore Northern Thailand

8 days | immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and natural beauty of northern thailand.

Northern Thailand is a treasure trove filled with glittering temples, ancient ruins, exotic markets and sumptuous foods. Explore the capital of Siam's golden age at Sukhothai, visit the bustling markets of Chiang Mai, stay at a special homestay with local friends and enjoy a traditional khantok dinner - there's so much to discover on this tour through Thailand's northern kingdoms.

Trip overview

• Experience the best of Northern Thailand with ample time in the charming Chiang Mai in a whirlwind 8-days and enjoy the local hospitality and understand why the nation is the Land of Smile.
• Support an important animal welfare initiative and get close to incredible creatures at Chang Chill Elephant Park
• Work up an appetite with a leisurely cycle through the ancient Buddhas and ruined temples of World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Park, then feast on a home-cooked picnic lunch.
• See how the locals live on a bicycle ride through your homestay village. Ride past the rice fields and breathe in the fresh country air, with beautiful mountains in the distance.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.
• There is a night at a homestay on this trip, a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in everyday Thai life. Facilities are basic and multishare, typically with mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms. The rewards of such an authentic local experience are immeasurable.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital. Bangkok is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. With no planned activities until your important welcome meeting at 6 pm, why not head out and explore. You could take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, perhaps gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some into world famous street food.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500
• Bangkok - Thai Massage - THB250
• Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure - THB2500

As this trip does not spend much time in Bangkok, we encourage you to spend a few extra days exploring this great city. Check out our Bangkok guide here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/Bangkok-guide-thailand

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

This morning, leave the current capital of Thailand and head north by train (approx 6 hours) and private mini van (approx 1 hour) to one of the first ancient capitals of Siam, Sukhothai. Located on a fertile plain, Sukhothai was established in the 13th century, and the name means the 'Dawn of Happiness'. It’s now famous for its World Heritage-listed historic park that celebrates the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Tonight, be sure to head to the fascinating local night market and try the local dishes, like Sukhothai noodles.

• Resort (1 night)
• Sukhothai - Night Market

Head out to the historical ruins of Old Sukhothai, set amid beautiful lakes and gardens. The religious art and architecture of the Sukhothai era are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles, and the Sukhothai Historical Park contains the remains of 21 historic sites, with awe-inspiring Buddha images and four large ponds often filled with stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. Upon arrival at the park, hire bicycles and enjoy a few leisurely hours feeling the breeze in your hair and learning about the history of this fascinating place. Enjoy a home-cooked picnic lunch somewhere along the way, and if you have enough free time, visit a local ceramics factory.

• Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
• Sukhothai - Home-cooked picnic lunch

Don't worry if you are not an experienced cyclist as it’s a leisurely ride, and one of the best ways to explore the park.

Travel by private minivan from Sukothai (approx 4 hours) to the warm and welcoming home of Intrepid's long-time friends in a small Thai village where you’ll spend the night. Accommodation at the homestay is multishare and basic (there will be fold-out mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms), but there is no better way to better understand a country and its people. In the evening, you’ll be treated to a traditional northern Thai khantok dinner, accompanied by live music and dancing.

• Homestay (Multishare) (1 night)
• Village Homestay - Cultural performance
• Village Homestay - Khantok dinner

In the morning, jump on some bikes and cruise around the homestay village. This is a great opportunity to see how the locals live, and you’ll make a few stops along the way to see small country industries in the area. Cycling past the rice fields and breathing in the fresh country air, with beautiful mountains in the distance, makes this morning a picture-postcard experience. Say goodbye to your new friends and travel on to Chiang Mai (approximately 45 minutes). The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for dazzling beauty and extremely welcoming locals, the ‘Rose of the North’ will leave you spellbound. Chances are, you won’t want to leave. Follow your leader on an orientation walk to get your bearings and enjoy a free evening tonight.

• Village Homestay - Home-Cooked Lunch
• Village Homestay - Cycling tour
• Chiang Mai - Night Market - Free

This morning, follow your leader to the largest fresh produce market in Chiang Mai for a visit. You'll be able to learn about these fresh ingredients and where the beautiful flavors of Thai cooking comes from. Then the rest of the day is free.Perhaps explore the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step naga-guarded stairway (approximately 45 mins). The rewards justify the climb with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention fantastic panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to listen to hypnotic evening chanting by resident Buddhist monks. Or maybe wander markets, meet monks, cruise the river, and slurp noodles on a Mae Ping River Experience. Don't miss out on trying lunch at the Chuan Chom vocational training center where you'll learn about the work that they do to train the women from the correctional institution with skills to go back to society. Or maybe join a Thai cooking class to discover some of the secrets of Thai cuisine. Your tour leader will be able to help you make the best of your day with plenty suggestions.

• Chiang Mai - Fresh Produce Market Visit
• Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance) - THB50

For more ideas about what to do in your free time in Chiang Mai, check out our city guide here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-do-in-chiang-mai

Today, you’ll have a pretty special time visiting the ChangChill elephant experience. Take a 1.5-hour drive out of Chiang Mai to ChangChill, where you’ll begin to learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of free roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialise with their other friends. The expert local guides will be able to give you a ‘live lecture’ on the elephants themselves, its sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments nearby the elephant’s mud pit but be careful not to get a spray! Be treated to some lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside your giant friends, who will be enjoying a meal too. Return to Chiang Mai where the rest of the time is at leisure.

• Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you are staying on in Chiang Mai why not join an Urban Adventure and allow yourself to be spirited away on an early morning Chiang Mai tour that puts you at the epicentre of Buddhist rituals. Learn to meditate, offer alms to monks, and make an offering at a temple. If you’re feeling active then you might want to saddle up for a half day cycling trip. Enjoy a pleasant ride along the green banks of the Ping River and stop at a former leper colony turned rehabilitation centre. Continue along various fruit orchards, cycling down small country roads and meandering around the villages on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Here you’ll discover the real rural Thailand and encounter the Thai way of life. Explore the temple ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, the former capital of Lanna, before you cycle back to Chiang Mai.

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

Private minibus, Public bus, Songthaew, Taxi, Train, Tuk tuk, Bicycle

Hotel (4 nights), Resort (2 nights), Multi-share Homestay (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A Single Supplement to have your own room is available on this trip excluding Day 4 (Homestay). Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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