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Is Thailand expensive? Our budget travel guide

Thailand is a popular budget-friendly destination in South-East Asia. Famous for its spectacular coastline, rich culture and delicious food.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to get around cheaply, Thailand flight costs, accommodation prices, and how to savour Thai food without draining your wallet.

Get ready for a Thai adventure that won’t break the bank.

The cost of transport in Thailand

So, is Thailand expensive for transport? Fortunately, not. Public transport options in Thailand include buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. Over long distances, you can also consider internal flights and car hire.

Type of travel

Pros

Cons

Flight

Fast, with low-cost fares between Bangkok and holiday resorts

Only relevant for long distances

Train

Good quality, comfortable, inexpensive. Sleeper trains save on accommodation

Best to book in advance. Sleeper services cost more

Bus

Cheap, many routes available

Can be crowded, some older buses are uncomfortable. Not the fastest option

Taxi/tuk-tuk

A handy way to travel in towns/resorts

More costly than bus/metro. Some drivers may try to overcharge

Metro

Excellent value, speedy and convenient

Only in Bangkok. Crowded at peak times

Car hire

Freedom to travel anywhere

More expensive, with additional fuel costs

Buses

Buses are popular and affordable in Thailand. Local city buses are cheapest, typically costing around 10 baht (20p to 30p) per trip.

Trains

Thailand has an extensive railway network connecting major towns and tourist destinations. Costs start from 30p to 60p for short journeys. More comfortable express and sleeper trains range from £5 up to £35 one-way, depending on distance and class.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are an iconic form of Thai transport. These three-wheeled motorised rickshaws are found in urban areas and tourist hotspots and are an easy, fun way to explore. Always establish the fare upfront as price can vary.

Motorbike taxis

Motorbike taxis are a common sight in Thailand, especially in busy urban areas. Costs are similar to a tuk-tuk, but for single passengers only. Always ask the driver for a helmet.

Car hire

Car hire can be a cost-effective option if you are exploring with others. Prices start from around £20 per day, plus fuel and insurance.

Get an idea of Thai baht exchange rates before you travel.

The cost of flights to Thailand

Flights to Thailand from the UK typically start from around £350 (GBP), according to Skyscanner (as of January 2025). The cost of flights to Thailand varies throughout the year. Generally, the cheapest months to fly are October, January and May.

While Bangkok International is the main hub for flights from the UK, you may find cheap indirect flights to other airports, including:

  • Phuket
  • Krabi
  • Chiang Mai
  • Khon Kaen
  • Koh Samui

Some package holidays to Thailand include direct charter flights. Most depart from London airports.

The cost of accommodation in Thailand

Thailand offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options:

Hostels

Hostels in Thailand are a popular choice amongst budget travellers. These typically feature shared dormitory rooms and private rooms with shared facilities. The cost of a hostel in Thailand can start from around £5 per night for a shared dormitory room or £15 for a private room.

Airbnb

Airbnb is another option for accommodation in Thailand. This site allows you to rent out a room in someone’s house, or the entire property. Prices vary but you can expect to pay anywhere from £30 to £100+ depending on the level of comfort you are looking for.

Budget hotels

Budget hotels in Thailand provide another affordable option if you prefer staying in private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Prices range from around £12 to £30 per night, depending on the location and hotel quality.

Mid-range hotels

Mid-range hotels will usually provide well-appointed rooms, restaurants, and swimming pools. Expect to pay £30 to £80 per night, depending on location, season, and hotel rating.

Luxury hotels and resorts

There are many high-end resorts in Phuket and Koh Samui. Some budget travellers choose to splash out for a night of luxury; you may find rooms for around £250.

The cost of eating out in Thailand

Most of us are no strangers to Thai food, with many UK restaurants serving green curry, pad thai, and other tasty dishes.

But the real deal is even better. Options for eating out in Thailand are plentiful and food prices are kind to even the tighest of budgets.

Thailand food prices

Food prices in Thailand vary depending on where you choose to eat.

Street food

Street food is a quintessential part of Thai culture, with food stalls throughout Thailand, especially in markets and on busy roads. Prices range from 60p to £2 per dish.

Try Pad Thai, Som Tam (papaya salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), and many types of noodles and curries.

Local food courts

In shopping centres and markets, you'll often find food courts offering both Thai and international food from as little as 50p to £2 per dish.

Simple local restaurants

Simple, family-run restaurants serve authentic Thai dishes at good prices. Here, you can expect to pay around £1.50 to £3 per dish.

Tipping in Thailand

Tipping in Thailand is not as common as in some Western countries, and while it’s certainly not expected, it’s always appreciated.

Tipping offers a thank you for good service. Rounding up the cost of a taxi ride or food bill is a small gesture that goes a long way in Thailand.

Alcohol prices in Thailand

Prices for alcoholic drinks can vary depending on where you are and what you order. Note that the minimum legal drinking age in Thailand is 20.

Beer

The cost of beer in Thailand ranges from £1 to £2.

Beer is the go-to drink in Thailand, with various local brews to sample around the country. If you prefer drinking imported beers, bear in mind that these are often more expensive.

Wine

The cost of wine in Thailand is typically around £5 to £6, though these prices will vary depending on the brand and quality of the wine.

Cocktails

Cocktail prices in Thailand vary by location and spirits, however, they typically cost under £10.

The best budget-friendly tourist attractions in Thailand

In Thailand, even the most famous sights and experiences are reasonably priced. Some of the top attractions include:

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Bangkok)

The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are iconic landmarks in Bangkok.

Wat Arun (Bangkok)

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is another significant temple in Bangkok. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the historical park is free, but some ruins and temples may have a cost.

Sukhothai Historical Park

Another UNESCO World Heritage site known for well-preserved ruins.

Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai's Old City is surrounded by a moat and historic walls. Exploring its temples is usually free or requires a small donation.

Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai)

In this elephant sanctuary, visitors can observe and interact with rescued elephants.

Railay Beach (Krabi)

A stunning destination known for its limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Phi Phi Islands (Krabi)

The Islands, including Maya Bay, were made famous by the film "The Beach". Island-hopping tours and snorkelling trips are popular.

Floating markets

Thailand's floating markets, such as Damnoen Saduak in Bangkok or Amphawa in Samut Songkhram, are loved by tourists. Exploring the markets is usually free.

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Ready to plan your trip? Explore our complete Thailand travel guide and Thailand currency guide.