How to plan your first visit to Thailand

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and for good reason – there's an incredible amount to see and do, costs are moderate and the food is out of this world!

This Southeast Asian nation has been a must-visit stop for as long as backpackers have been grabbing their backpacks, and with so many places to see, many travelers are lured back time after time. But if this is your first time visiting Thailand, it pays to read up on what to expect when you get here. 

First of all, it's important to not be too ambitious – whether you plan to visit Thailand's gleaming beaches, its pristine coral reefs, its wildlife-filled national parks or its cultured cities, you'll want to stop and smell the jasmine. A whistlestop itinerary will just leave you longing for more.

On the other hand, Thailand is easy to navigate for first-timers, and the country is wholeheartedly hospitable and famously welcoming to new arrivals. Before you pack your sandals and sunhat, let us answer the questions that every first-time visitor to Thailand is asking.

When should I go to Thailand?

Ask a local and they’ll say the best time to visit Thailand is during the “winter” from November to February, when the weather is dry and temperatures are manageable, but with warm weather throughout the year, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad time to visit.

During the northern hemisphere winter, post-monsoon winds cut the humidity and pull temperatures down a few degrees, with daytime highs mostly staying below 30°C (86°F). It might seem odd to seek out the colder months for a holiday, but in the steamy tropics, it makes travel more pleasurable.

Winter coincides, of course, with the Christmas and New Year holidays, so you can expect to share the beaches, bars and buses with busy crowds of Thai travelers and foreigners. Book ahead for accommodation and transport at this time of year. On the flip side, this is the best time of year for scuba diving and snorkeling.

The Thai "summer" from March to June is mostly dry, particularly in the north, but sometimes uncomfortably humid and significantly hotter, with the mercury regularly reaching 35°C (95°F). This is a time to stay close to the sea or pay a little extra for a hotel with a pool (or visit local swimming holes).

By April, temperatures can climb to 40°C (104°F) and Thais avoid being out in the heat more than is necessary. Tourism and prices dip, except during Songkran, Thailand’s three-day New Year celebrations, marked by a nationwide water fight in mid- to late-April.

The rainy monsoon season usually arrives by late June and continues through to October, but it doesn't rain every day. Towards the end of the wet season, weeklong stretches of dry, overcast weather are a real possibility. Temperatures stay warm so you won’t need to layer up, but if you’re visiting Thailand's islands, beware of rough seas and ferry cancellations that can spell disaster for tight itineraries.

Also note the increasingly problematic “smokey season,” where smog from slash-and-burn agriculture sweeps across northern Thailand between January and March. Smoggy days can ruin both the views and your lungs (bring a facemask).

How much time should I spend in Thailand?

It can be easy to feel overwhelmed on your first visit to Thailand. Many travelers try to jam-pack their itineraries with every experience they can fit in – and have a less relaxing and enjoyable time as a result.

If there’s one piece of advice for first-timers, it’s this: Don’t try to fit in too much and give yourself enough time to explore. Seven to ten days is a sensible minimum; if you have less time, pick a hub such as Bangkok, Krabi, Chiang Mai or Phuket and focus on staying local and enjoying the food and culture.

As a first-time visitor, ask yourself what you want to experience in Thailand, and build your trip around those activities. If you plan to relax on the beach, focus on southern hubs such as Phuket and Krabi and the islands. If you're after cultural encounters, concentrate on the historic cities of central and northern Thailand, making extended stops in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. For hiking and wildlife encounters, head to the far north, or schedule several days at key reserves such as Khao Sok National Park and Khao Yai National Park.

How you get around can make a difference to how much you can fit in. Domestic flights make it easier to see both north and south, though at a carbon cost. If you rely on buses and trains, it can take time to travel the length of the country, though overnight services will save you precious sightseeing time and money on accommodation.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Thailand allows tourists from 93 countries to enter without applying for a visa in advance. Most get a 60-day stamp on arrival, which is more than enough for most holidaymakers. People seeking a longer stay often leave Thailand by traveling overland to neighboring Malaysia, Cambodia or Laos, before returning and obtaining a new Thai entry stamp – a handy option if you plan to make Thailand the start and end point of a longer trip through Southeast Asia. 

The country’s main international airports are Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (used for most long-haul flights) and Don Mueang Airport (used for many domestic flights and some short hops within Asia), and Phuket Airport on the island of Phuket. The regional airports in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Udon Thani, U-Tapao (for Rayong and Pattaya), Krabi, Surat Thani, Hat Yai and Ko Samui are also served by some international flights from Asia and the Middle East.

Is it easy to get around in Thailand?

Getting around Thailand is easy thanks to fast and frequent public transport and a well-established network of tourist transfers by air-con minivan. The website 12GoAsia is a useful starting point for planning travel beyond Bangkok to other cities and provinces.

Thailand's once proud railway network is a little faded, but it's still useful for long trips south along the peninsula or the journey north from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Sleeper berths are comfortable and inexpensive and the trains are a great place to meet and chat with Thai people.

Private and government-run coaches, go almost everywhere, day and night, and it's rarely a problem finding a seat, but booking can be tricky thanks to the absence of a central online booking system. Book in person at bus stations, online through third-party booking websites, or through local travel agents or guesthouses and hotels (their add-on fees are usually nominal). Low-cost internal flights connect cities across Thailand daily, but there's an emissions cost to consider.

Getting around towns and cities is easy, with plentiful taxis and tuk-tuks, and plenty of local buses and songthaew (shared pick-up trucks) fanning out from urban hubs into the countryside. Islands offshore can be reached by plane, ferry or chartered longtail boat. Thailand also has a long-established system of tourist minivans, connecting backpacker hangouts at a slightly higher price than public buses.

In Bangkok, the modern BTS and MRT train systems in Bangkok make it easy to explore this massive city, while the popular car-hailing app Grab is now the top choice for locals and tourists who prefer to use map pins to find their way around. However, you probably won't pay less than you would using conventional taxis.

The best things to do in Thailand

Thailand can be loosely divided into four regions. The South is where you’ll find most of the islands and beaches. The North is where you’ll find mountains and tribal villages. The Northeast, towards Laos, is good for food and culture and escaping the crowds. And the Central Plains are the setting for Thailand's biggest cities, ancient ruins and some of the country’s most impressive nature reserves.

Each region has its own unique cultural identity, spanning everything from food to language, traditions and religion, but at their core all are very Thai. Here’s a quick breakdown of each region to help you decide where to begin.

Bangkok

Bangkok is the beating heart of Thailand, the seat of the Thai Royal Family and one of the world's biggest and busiest capital cities. Renowned for its timeless temples, world-class shopping, record-breaking markets and vibrant nightlife, this is a city to take slowly – if you rush around trying to see all the big sights in a few days, it's easy to get city fatigue.

This is the first port of call for most visitors, and it can be an overwhelming experience for first-timers. Traffic jams, air pollution, the noise and crowds of the busy streets and the tropical heat can take some getting used to. Some thrive, others dive for the nearest bus or train station and head to calmer parts of the country. 

The best way to see Bangkok is at street level. Wander around the Grand Palace and Wat Pho on historic Ratanakosin Island, visit the backpacker hub of Khao San Road, go mall-hopping around Siam Square and Thanon Sukhumvit, and graze food stalls in the city's enormous Chinatown. If you’re here at the weekend, don’t forget to visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, the largest market in Thailand.

Before you leave, be sure to take a sunset ride on the Chao Phraya Express Boat – a low-cost ferry that zips along the river passing top sights such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.

The Central Plains

Head beyond Bangkok and you’ll be greeted by a wide world of rolling green hills and small towns that are home to some of Thailand’s most fascinating cultural sights. The ancient ruins of Ayutthaya are just 90 minutes by train from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, making for a perfect day trip from the busy capital.

Another mesmerizing ruined capital lies further north at Sukhothai. Alternatively, head northeast to explore the dense jungles of Thailand’s largest nature reserve, Khao Yai National Park, or go west to wild waterfalls, WWII relics and elephant sanctuaries around Kanchanaburi.

Chiang Mai and the North

Chiang Mai is the hub for most travelers heading north. Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, the city is rich in history and the surrounding mountains hide tribal villages with traditions quite unlike those found elsewhere in Thailand. Surrounded by mountains, it's also a paradise for adventurers – a hub for everything from mountain biking and jungle treks to whitewater rafting and sustainable elephant tourism.

The nearby mountain town of Pai became a backpacker hotspot during the 1980s and it has remained one ever since. More family-friendly today, it's a place every first-time backpacker ends up visiting at one point or another. Travelers with more time should venture further into the hills in search of unspoiled natural beauty in the mountains of Nan, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son.

Northeast Thailand

Colloquially known as Isan (pronounced ee-saan), this region is the least visited part of Thailand. Endless rice paddies are what keep the local economy going, but for intrepid travelers, there’s plenty to be discovered, including some of Thailand's richest cuisine.

This less-explored region shares its border with Laos and Cambodia, and backpackers often find themselves in the border towns of Nong Khai and Aranyaprathet as they roam around the region. Beyond these transit points lie interesting detours such as Khon Kaen with its dinosaur museum, Phu Kradeung – a hub for uplifting hikes on a cool plateau – and Yasothon, setting for a famous rocket festival in April.

The Southern Islands

The islands flanking Thailand's long southern peninsula draw travelers in droves, with spectacular coral reefs, pristine beaches, delectable seafood, massage pavilions on the sand and some thrilling activities in, on and beside the water. The rock climbing at Railay near Krabi is truly world-class.

Islands range from busy, heavily developed Ko Samui and Phuket to the footloose full-moon party island of Ko Pha-Ngan and myriad smaller isles with beach-hut resorts where you can escape the world, accessible from a string of small ports along the mainland coastline. 

If you find the main islands a bit too commercial, try Ko Lipe in the Tarutao archipelago in the far south, where some of the castaway vibe that first drew backpackers to the south still endures. If you're here to dive, Ko Tao in the Gulf of Thailand is one of the cheapest places in the world to get certified.

My favorite thing to do in Thailand

Northern Thailand has some of the best roads in the region for biking. Whether you hire a moped, hit the road on a classic motorcycle or swap an engine for two pedals, exploring the North – and Thailand in general – on two wheels is a highly rewarding experience.

Whenever I visit a new city, I like to rent a bike and drive around to see what’s on offer. When traveling on two wheels, you can stop almost anywhere, change plans at a moment's notice and really take in your surroundings, seeing things you might miss traveling by coach or minivan. The country's roads are well-maintained – you just need to be careful of speeding traffic and rule-breaking drivers.

Top routes include the Mae Hong Son Loop near Chiang Mai – visiting tribal villages, viewpoints, fruit farms and waterfalls – and the trip from Chiang Mai to 2565m (8415ft) Doi Inthanon, the country’s highest mountain. A road climbs to the summit where you can book a night in a luxurious dome tent with a private balcony bathtub for as little as US$40 a night.

How much money do I need for Thailand?

Costs in Thailand can vary dramatically. Public transport is refreshingly inexpensive, but a cup of coffee or a beer can set you back as much as a whole street food dinner, and beach resorts range from the surprisingly affordable to the outrageously expensive.

It's safe to say, however, that Thailand is no longer the cheap travel destination it once was. Sure, you can easily get by on a budget but the pocket-money-priced rooms enjoyed by earlier generations are largely a thing of the past. If your budget is tight, inexpensive backpacker hostels are found everywhere, though standards vary, as do prices.

If you want to keep it real, look beyond the flashing lights for local homestays that offer better food and a more genuine experience. Taking advantage of Thailand's amazing street food is another good way to keep costs down and flavors authentic. 

Average costs in Thailand

• Hostel room: 300–600B (US$9–18)
  

• Basic hotel room: 600–1500B (US$18–46)
  

• Luxury beach villa: 3000–30,000B (US$92–920)
  

• Interprovincial bus and train tickets: from 200B (US$6)
  

• A bowl of street food noodles: 60B (US$1.80)
  

• Thai restaurant meal for two: from 1200B (US$37)
  

• A bottle of local beer in a bar: around 120B (US$3.70)
  

• A fresh cup of coffee: from 120B (US$3.70)
  

• A liter of petrol: 45B (US$1.40)
  

Is Thailand safe for tourists?

Thailand is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for travelers, though there is some petty crime, as you'll find anywhere. The country's open and friendly culture means people are always willing to help on the rare occasion something does go wrong.

However, road safety can be an issue so be cautious on the roads, particularly if you get around by scooter or motorcycle. Also monitor the local media for reports of political unrest – Thailand has a history of (mostly bloodless) uprisings and coups. Because of an ongoing insurgency in the far south of the country, many travelers avoid the provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, where political violence is a risk.

Scams are more of a hassle than a danger – touts steer tourists towards commission-paying hotels, shops and travel agencies, and tuk-tuk drivers also make unsolicited detours in search of commissions. The sex industry is highly visible, but easy to avoid if you steer clear of seedy districts.

Is Thai street food safe to eat?

Most street food in Thailand is cooked to order, and food served fresh from a hot pan is usually safe to enjoy. Pre-cooked food left out at room temperature on end is more high-risk, so use your judgment on whether something looks safe to eat.

Food poisoning is uncommon but mild stomach upsets from undercooked meat, poultry or seafood and unhygienic food preparation are a risk, and new arrivals may experience an unsettled stomach while adjusting to local bacteria. Just like restaurants, street vendors rely on good reviews and happy customers, so stick to stalls that are busy with local customers.

What should I know about Thai culture before I visit?

Thailand has a strong cultural identity but Thai people are generally very tolerant and accommodating to foreign tourists who may not realize they’re making a faux pas. However, it's important to avoid behavior that could be perceived to be insulting towards Buddhism or the monarchy (both are punishable with jail terms).

Never show disrespect towards images of the Buddha or the Thai royal family. Also avoid touching people on the head, pointing at things with your feet, stepping over people, or putting your feet up on a chair. This comes from the belief that the head is the most sacred part of the body while the feet are considered to be unclean. Other things to avoid include public nudity, going topless (this also includes men away from the pool or the sea), shouting and public displays of affection.

How can I stay connected in Thailand?

Reliable wi-fi and 4G/5G networks cover almost the entire country. Free wi-fi is available in almost every cafe, restaurant, bar and hotel and SIM cards can be purchased cheaply throughout Thailand (you’ll need your passport to buy one). Cheap mobile internet packages can keep you connected everywhere from the beach to the jungle.

Is cannabis legal in Thailand?

E-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand and smoking in many public places is banned so need no-smoking signs. Cannabis was decriminalized for recreational use in 2022, but the government is reviewing whether to recriminalize the drug, so this may no longer be the case from 2025.

Make a point of seeking up-to-date information before engaging in any cannabis-related activity. Thailand takes a very strong stance against all other drugs, with hefty prison sentences for possession and the death penalty for smuggling drugs across Thailand's borders.