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Thailand
If you’re dreaming of a trip to Thailand, you’re in for a treat. I’ve spent a ton of time wandering this vibrant country, soaking up its sun-drenched beaches, savoring spicy street food, and getting lost in its rich history. Thailand’s got it all—bustling cities, charming old towns, jaw-dropping temples, and a culture that’s as warm as its tropical climate. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just chasing that perfect Instagram shot, Thailand’s cities deliver. Let me take you through my top picks for the best cities to visit, complete with practical tips and a sprinkle of my own adventures to help you plan smart and travel better.
Thailand is a country that hits all the senses. From the colorful chaos of Bangkok’s markets to the soulful strum of traditional music in Chiang Mai, every city has its own vibe. I’ve narrowed it down to five must-visit cities that’ll give you a taste of Thailand’s diversity: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Ayutthaya. Each one’s got its own flavor, and I’ll link you to detailed guides so you can dig deeper into what makes them special. Plus, I’ve got you covered with practical stuff like costs, money-saving hacks, and what to expect when you’re wandering Thailand’s streets.
Top Cities to Visit in Thailand
- Bangkok: A vibrant capital blending ancient temples like the Grand Palace with lively markets and modern skyscrapers.
- Chiang Mai: A northern gem with misty mountains, historic temples like Wat Doi Suthep, and a laid-back vibe perfect for adventure seekers.
- Phuket: Thailand’s largest island, packed with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife in areas like Patong.
- Krabi: A coastal paradise offering dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and island-hopping adventures to spots like Railay.
- Ayutthaya: An ancient capital with UNESCO-listed ruins, crumbling temples, and a glimpse into Thailand’s royal past just a short trip from Bangkok.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THAILAND
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Wat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), Bangkok
Big Buddha, Phuket
Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai
Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
Phang Nga Bay, Phuket
Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya
Emerald Pool, Krabi
“The Professional Hobo”
“Never Ending Footsteps”
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING
Accommodation – Mid-range hotels in major cities like Bangkok or Phuket, offering comfort and amenities like private bathrooms and central locations, run about $30–60 USD per night for a double room. Hostels are cheaper, around $8–15 USD for a dorm bed, while budget Airbnb options start at $20–40 USD. For a luxurious stay, boutique hotels or upscale spots can hit $80–150 USD, especially in peak season (November–February). Booking early or visiting in the rainy season (May–October) can save you a chunk.
Food – Thailand’s food scene is a steal if you know where to look. A pad Thai or green curry from a street vendor gets you a filling meal for $1–3 USD in most cities. In Chiang Mai, I grabbed a killer khao soi for $2 USD. Coffee and a fresh fruit shake for breakfast? About $1–2 USD. Fine dining, like in Phuket’s beachfront spots, can run $20–50 USD per person, but you don’t need to splurge to eat well.
Transportation – Thailand’s buses and trains are a dream—overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai cost $20–40 USD, depending on how early you book. Local buses or songthaews are cheaper, around $0.50–1 USD per ride. In cities, BTS Skytrain or MRT tickets are $0.50–1.50 USD per trip, or grab a day pass for about $4–5 USD. Taxis or Grab rides run $5–10 USD for short trips. Renting a motorbike? Expect $5–10 USD per day, plus gas (about $4/gallon).
Activities – Many attractions are budget-friendly. Entry to the Grand Palace in Bangkok is about $15 USD, while Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep is around $1–2 USD (or free if you hike). Phuket’s Big Buddha is free, but island-hopping tours range from $20–50 USD. Diving in Krabi or Phuket costs $50–100 USD per dive, but some spots offer free hours or deals (check schedules!).
Suggested daily budget – $40–60 USD per person. This assumes you’re staying in a mid-range hotel, eating a mix of street food and casual meals, using public transport, and hitting a few paid attractions. Want to splurge on a beachfront resort or fancy dinner? Bump it up to $80–120 USD. Traveling on a shoestring? You can get by on $20–30 USD by cooking, staying in hostels, and sticking to free sights.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
1
Eat Like a Local with Street Food
Skip the touristy restaurants and hit up street vendors or markets. In Bangkok, I had an amazing mango sticky rice for $1 USD—felt like a king for pennies. Look for spots packed with locals for the best deals and flavors.
2
Use Public Transport or Walk
Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok have great buses and trains; a day pass saves cash over taxis. Most old towns (like Ayutthaya’s ruins) are walkable, so you can skip rides. I walked Phuket’s beaches end-to-end for free and loved it.
3
Book Tours and Transport Locally
Avoid online platforms like 12Go for buses or ferries—buy in person at stations or agencies for cheaper rates. In Krabi, I snagged an island-hopping deal for half the online price by bargaining at the pier.
4
Refill Water Bottles
Bottled water is cheap, but use the refill machines scattered around cities for $0.10–0.20 USD per liter. It adds up over a trip and cuts down on plastic waste. I refilled daily in Phuket and saved a bundle.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THAILAND?
Thailand’s got this magnetic energy that pulls you in. It’s a place where history and modernity crash together in the best way—think ancient ruins in Ayutthaya next to trendy cafes in Bangkok, or Phuket’s futuristic beach clubs surrounded by limestone cliffs. The people are warm, the streets are alive, and there’s always a reason to celebrate, whether it’s a local festival or just a sunny afternoon.
Expect a mix of laid-back vibes and non-stop energy. In Bangkok, you’ll weave through crowded Chatuchak Market one minute and find a quiet temple courtyard the next. Chiang Mai’s got a chill mountain pulse but feels alive in its night markets. Phuket and Krabi wrap you in their beachy, adventurous past, with turquoise waters and island vibes. Ayutthaya’s a bit more reflective, blending royal history with serene riverside spots.
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The weather’s a big draw—dry season (November–February) is perfect (75–85°F), but rainy season (May–October) brings deals and fewer crowds, though expect afternoon showers. Summers can be hot (85–95°F in April), and northern spots like Chiang Mai get cooler at night (50–60°F in winter). Locals are friendly but don’t always speak English, so learning basic Thai phrases (“sawasdee,” “khob khun,” “a-roy mak”) goes a long way. I fumbled through ordering street food in Krabi with my broken Thai, and the vendor ended up sharing tips over a cold coconut—those moments make Thailand special.
Safety-wise, Thailand’s generally safe, even for solo travelers. I’ve wandered cities alone at night without issue, but watch for pickpockets in crowded spots like Bangkok’s Khao San Road or Phuket’s Patong. Use a money belt and keep your phone secure. Public transport is reliable, and trains make hopping between cities a breeze. If you’re driving a motorbike, roads are good, but traffic in Bangkok can be a nightmare—stick to public transport or Grab where you can.
Thailand’s culture is its heartbeat. You’ll feel it in the late-night markets (stalls often open till midnight), the respectful wai greetings in temples, and the passion for life that spills into every beach or street corner. Whether you’re sipping a Singha beer, marveling at a Buddha statue, or getting swept up in a Loy Krathong festival, Thailand makes you feel alive. So, grab our interactive maps for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Ayutthaya, and start planning your adventure. Explore cities, plan smart, travel better!
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September 21, 2018
