In this guide
Thailand is one of the easiest and most rewarding countries in Asia for a first big trip: excellent food, friendly people, great-value hotels and a mix of buzzing cities, mountain towns and tropical islands. Here's what to know before you go.
Where to go on your first trip
- Bangkok: temples, street food, rooftop bars, markets and river life. Most international flights land here. See things to do in Bangkok.
- Chiang Mai and the north: old-city temples, mountains, night markets and ethical elephant sanctuaries. Read our Chiang Mai guide.
- The Andaman coast: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta for limestone cliffs and clear water. Compare them in Phuket vs Krabi.
- The Gulf islands: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao for beaches, diving and the Full Moon Party. See our Koh Samui guide.
Getting around
- Domestic flights are quick and often cheap, connecting Bangkok's two airports (Suvarnabhumi BKK and Don Mueang DMK) with Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi and Samui.
- Trains and buses are slower but comfortable; the overnight train to Chiang Mai is a classic experience.
- In Bangkok, use the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, river boats and ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Bolt to avoid traffic.
- On the islands, ferries and speedboats link the main destinations.
Money and costs
The currency is the Thai baht (THB). Cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, but street food, markets and small shops prefer cash. ATMs charge a fixed fee for foreign cards, so withdraw larger amounts less often. Thailand can be very affordable: street food meals cost a few dollars, and comfortable hotels are good value outside peak season.
Etiquette and culture
- Respect the monarchy: criticising the royal family is a serious offence.
- Dress modestly at temples: cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes before entering buildings.
- Don't touch people's heads or point your feet at people or Buddha images.
- Stay calm: raising your voice or losing your temper is frowned upon.
Food to try
Pad thai, green and massaman curries, tom yum soup, som tam (papaya salad), khao soi in the north, and mango sticky rice. Street food is generally safe at busy stalls where food is cooked fresh.
Safety and health
Thailand is generally safe for visitors. Watch out for common scams (closed-temple stories, overpriced tuk-tuk "tours", jet-ski damage claims), use licensed operators, and get travel insurance that covers medical care and any activities you plan, such as diving or riding a scooter.
When to go
The cool, dry season from November to February is the most popular. March to May is hot, and June to October brings the rainy season, with lower prices. Details in our guide to the best time to visit Thailand.
Ready to plan? Try our 10-day Thailand itinerary and compare cheap flights to Bangkok.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Thailand?
Ten to fourteen days is ideal for a first trip: a few days in Bangkok, a few in Chiang Mai or the north, and the rest on the islands. With a week, pick Bangkok plus one beach area.
Which Thai island is best for first-timers?
Phuket and Krabi on the Andaman coast are easiest to reach and have the most choice. Koh Samui on the Gulf side is a good alternative, especially from January to September.
Do I need a visa for Thailand?
Many nationalities can enter Thailand visa-free or get a visa on arrival for a short stay, but the rules change. Check the official requirements for your passport before you book.
Prices are estimates and can change. Check entry rules, opening times and safety advice before you travel. Some links are partner links: if you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
