How Much is a Trip to Thailand? Full 2025 Breakdown

Thinking about a trip to Thailand? Good choice! It’s warm, fun, and packed with incredible food, beaches, and adventures. Plus, it’s still one of the best-value destinations in 2025.

But how much is a trip to Thailand? The answer: it depends. We’ve been living in Thailand since 2019 and have explored budget travel, luxury travel, and everything in between.

This guide breaks it all down—flights, accommodation, food, transport, and much more. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a mid-range explorer, or someone who likes the finer things in life, I’ve got the numbers you need.

Let’s dive in!

Average Cost of a Trip to Thailand

Thailand can be incredibly affordable or as luxurious as you want. Here’s a daily budget breakdown for different types of travelers in Thailand. Scroll to the end of the article for compact tables.

1. Budget Traveler (Backpacker Style) – $30 to $50 (€28–47) per day

• Accommodation: $5 to $15 (€5–14) per night (hostels, basic guesthouses).
• Food: $5 to $10 (€5–9) per day (street food, small local restaurants).
• Transport: $2 to $5 (€2–4) (local buses, tuk-tuks, or just walking).
• Activities: $5 to $10 (€5–9) (temple visits, free attractions, local markets).
• Total Daily Budget: $30 to $50 (€28–47)

Budget travel in Thailand is easy. Stick to local transport, eat where locals eat, and choose simple accommodations. A $1 (€0.95) bowl of noodles from a street cart is often better than most expensive tourist restaurants.

2. Mid-Range Traveler (Comfortable & Convenient) – $80 to $150 (€75–140) per day

• Accommodation: $30 to $80 (€28–75) per night (boutique hotels, Airbnbs).
• Food: $15 to $30 (€14–28) per day (mix of local and Western restaurants).
• Transport: $10 to $20 (€9–19) (taxis, motorbike rentals, occasional domestic flight).
• Activities & tours: $15 to $40 (€14–37) (snorkeling, island hopping, cooking classes).
• Total Daily Budget: $80 to $150 (€75–140)

Mid-range travelers can enjoy more comfort without spending too much. Domestic flights are often cheap if booked in advance, and mid-range hotels provide great value.

3. Luxury Traveler (Resorts & Private Tours) – $250+ (€235+) per day

• Accommodation: $150 to $500 (€140–470) per night (beachfront resorts, private villas).
• Food: $50 to $100 (€47–95) per day (fine dining, rooftop bars, imported wine).
• Transport: $30 to $80 (€28–75) per day (private drivers, first-class flights, private boats).
• Exclusive experiences: $50 to $200 (€47–188) (spa retreats, private tours, yacht rentals).
• Total Daily Budget: $250+ (€235+)

Luxury travel in Thailand costs far less than in Europe or the US. Five-star resorts, private island tours, and fine dining can be surprisingly affordable compared to other destinations. That’s why I love it so much here. You don’t have this big feeling of regret afterward.

Flights to Thailand

Flights are often the biggest expense when planning a trip to Thailand. Prices depend on where you’re flying from, the season, and how early you book. But with some smart planning, you can find great deals.

Average Flight Prices to Thailand (Round-Trip, Economy Class)

• From North America: $800 – $1,500 (€752–€1,410)
• From Europe: $600 – $1,200 (€564–€1,127)
• From Australia: $400 – $900 (€376–€846)

Prices vary depending on your departure city. Flights from major hubs like Los Angeles, London, and Sydney tend to be cheaper than smaller airports.

Best Time to Book for Cheaper Deals

• Book at least 2 to 3 months in advance for the best prices. Use Skyscanner to find the best deal!
• Travel in the low season (May to October) to save the most. Fewer tourists, cheaper flights, and hotel discounts.
• Avoid peak season (December to February) when prices skyrocket. The holidays and cool weather bring in crowds.

Budget Airlines vs. Full-Service Carriers

• Budget Airlines: AirAsia, Scoot, Nok Air. Cheap, but expect extra fees for luggage, meals, and seat selection.
• Full-Service Carriers: Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways. More expensive but include baggage, meals, and comfort.

For long-haul flights, full-service carriers are usually worth it. But if you’re flying within Asia, budget airlines can save you a lot.

Thailand has several major international airports, but Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) are the busiest and often have the best flight options.

💡 You’ll find everything you need to know about this topic in this article: When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Thailand?

Accommodation Costs in Thailand

Thailand has everything from $5 hostel dorms to $500 luxury beachfront villas (€5–€470). Where you stay depends on your budget and travel style. Let’s break it down.

Budget Stays ($5 – $30 per night / €5–€28)

Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers. Basic but comfortable.

• Hostels: $5 – $15 per night (€5–€14) (dorm beds, shared bathrooms).
• Guesthouses: $10 – $30 per night (€9–€28) (private rooms, small family-run places).
• Budget hotels: $20 – $30 per night (€19–€28) (basic, no-frills rooms).

Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and budget-conscious travelers.

Mid-Range Hotels ($30 – $100 per night / €28–€94)

A sweet spot between comfort and price.

• Boutique hotels: $40 – $80 per night (€38–€75) (charming, unique stays).
• Nice hotels & resorts: $50 – $100 per night (€47–€94) (pools, good locations, solid comfort).
• Serviced apartments: $60 – $100 per night (€56–€94) (great for families, includes kitchen).

Best for: Couples, families, digital nomads who want comfort without overspending.

Luxury Resorts & 5-Star Hotels ($150 – $500+ per night / €141–€470+)

Top-end stays with beachfront views, infinity pools, and spa treatments.

• Luxury hotels: $150 – $300 per night (€141–€282) (big chains, fancy amenities).
• Private villas: $250 – $500 per night (€235–€470) (secluded, high-end comfort).
• Over-the-top resorts: $400+ per night (€376+) (private pools, butlers, full-on paradise).

Best for: Honeymooners, families who want resort-style stays, and travelers looking for high-end relaxation.

Cost Comparison by Destination

Not all places in Thailand cost the same. Here’s a rough guide:

Chiang Mai is definitely the cheapest for long-term stays. We lived in Chiang Mai for a total of 8 months and it was by far our cheapest time in Southeast Asia. Popular islands like Phuket and Koh Samui are pricier, especially near the beach.

Food and Dining Expenses in Thailand

Eating in Thailand is one of the best parts of the trip. You can grab a bowl of noodles for a dollar or sit down for a fancy dinner with cocktails. Here’s what to expect when it comes to food costs.

Street Food vs. Restaurant Meals

Thai street food is cheap, fresh, and delicious. You’ll find it everywhere—from night markets to roadside stalls and even floating markets. If you eat like a local, you can survive on $5–$10 per day (€5–€9).

Street food prices:

• Pad Thai – $1 to $2 (€0.94–€1.88) (35 to 70 THB)
• Mango sticky rice – $1.50 (€1.41) (50 THB)
• Som Tam (papaya salad) – $1.50 (€1.41) (50 THB)
• Grilled meat skewers – $0.50 each (€0.47) (20 THB)

Restaurants vary depending on the location and type:

• Local Thai restaurants: $3–$6 per meal (€2.82–€5.64) (100–200 THB)
• Mid-range restaurants (Thai & Western food): $8–$15 per meal (€7.52–€14.10) (300–500 THB)
• Fine dining and rooftop bars: $20–$50+ per meal (€18.80–€47+) (700–1,800 THB)

Cost of Eating at Local vs. International Restaurants

If you eat Thai food, you’ll spend a lot less than at international restaurants. A simple plate of rice with curry might cost $2 (€1.88) at a local eatery, but a burger in a Western-style café could be $10 (€9.40).

• Buffets & hotel restaurants: $15–$30 per person (€14.10–€28.20)
• Western cafés & brunch spots: $8–$20 per dish (€7.52–€18.80)
• Fast food (McDonald’s, Burger King): $5–$10 per meal (€4.70–€9.40)
• Bars & alcohol: $3–$6 per beer (€2.82–€5.64), $7–$15 for cocktails (€6.58–€14.10)

Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Thailand

Thailand is great for vegetarians and vegans, especially in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai and touristy places that are used to vegetarian tourists.

As a vegetarian myself, I like to say “mangsawirat”, which means vegetarian. Then I add “no fish sauce, no oyster sauce, but egg ok.” – just to make sure. 

• Vegan street food: $1–$3 per dish (€0.94–€2.82)
• Veg-friendly restaurants: $5–$12 per meal (€4.70–€11.28)
• Trendy vegan cafés: $10–$20 per meal (€9.40–€18.80)

If you’re in a touristy area, expect to pay more for plant-based dishes, especially at Instagrammable cafés serving smoothie bowls and avocado toast.

Transportation Costs in Thailand

Getting around Thailand is easy and affordable, whether you’re hopping on a tuk-tuk, catching a budget flight, or renting a scooter. Here’s a breakdown of local and long-distance transport costs.

Local Transport Costs

• Tuk-tuks: Fun but overpriced. Expect to pay $3–$10 (€2.82–€9.40) (100–350 THB) for short rides. Always negotiate before getting in.
• Taxis: Metered taxis in Bangkok start at $1 (€0.94) (35 THB) for the first kilometer, then $0.25 (€0.24) per km after. Avoid unmetered taxis—they’ll charge you double.
• Grab/Bolt (ride-hailing apps): Cheaper than taxis and easier to book. A 20-minute ride costs around $3–$6 (€2.82–€5.64) (100–200 THB).
• BTS Skytrain/MRT (Bangkok’s metro): Clean, fast, and cheap. Fares range from $0.50–$2 (€0.47–€1.88) (20–70 THB) per ride.
• Songthaews (shared pickup trucks): Used in places like Chiang Mai and the islands. Fares start at $0.50 (€0.47) (20 THB) in Chiang Mai and $2.93 (€2.71) (100 THB) in Koh Phangan.
• Motorbike rentals: $5–$10 (€4.70–€9.40) (150–350 THB) per day. Great for getting around islands, but be careful—many tourists end up with scratches (or worse). I have a couple of “Koh Phangan tattoos”—that’s what we like to call the scars on my legs from scooter accidents. Thankfully, nothing worse ever happened. Most of the time, it was the sand on the roads that got me into trouble.

Long-Distance Travel Costs

• Domestic flights: $30–$120 (€28–€113) one way. Budget airlines like AirAsia and Nok Air often have deals, but luggage fees add up.
• Trains: A scenic way to travel. A second-class sleeper from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costs $20–$35 (€19–€33) (700–1,200 THB).
• Buses: Cheap but slow. A VIP bus from Bangkok to Phuket costs $25–$40 (€24–€38) (900–1,500 THB) and takes 12+ hours.
• Ferries: Island hopping? Ferry prices range from $5–$20 (€5–€19) (200–700 THB) depending on the route. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan ferries are pricier than short trips to smaller islands. Check 12GoAsia for the best rates!

Car Rental & Private Driver Costs

• Car rental: $25–$50 (€24–€47) per day for a basic car, but driving in Thailand is chaotic. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, but even if you have one, the police may still fine you because you don’t have a Thai driver’s license.
  This happens often, especially in tourist areas (to me it happened every single week when we lived in Chiang Mai). The fine is usually around 500 THB ($15 / €14).
• Private drivers: A full day with a driver costs $50–$100 (€47–€94), depending on the location and vehicle type.

Activities & Sightseeing Costs in Thailand

Thailand is packed with amazing things to do. Some activities are cheap (or even free), while others can cost a bit more. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Entrance Fees for Temples, National Parks, and Attractions

Many temples and natural attractions charge small entrance fees, but they add up if you’re visiting multiple spots.

Temples: Free to $15 (€14) (most are around $3–$6 (€2.82–€5.64)).

• Grand Palace (Bangkok): $15 (€14.10) (500 THB)
• Wat Pho (Bangkok): $6 (€5.64) (200 THB)
• White Temple (Chiang Rai): $3 (€2.82) (100 THB)

National Parks: $5–$15 (€4.70–€14.10) per person (200–600 THB).

• Doi Inthanon National Park: $9 (€8.46) (300 THB)
• Similan Islands National Park: $15 (€14.10) (500 THB)
• Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine Park: $10 (€9.40) (300 THB)

Some parks charge extra for foreigners, so don’t be surprised if locals pay less.

Popular Activities & Their Costs

Island Hopping & Snorkeling: $20–$100 (€19–€94) per person

• Koh Phi Phi boat tour: $30–$80 (€28–€75)
• Koh Tao snorkeling trip: $25–$50 (€24–€47)
• Private longtail boat rental: $50–$150 (€47–€141) per boat

Elephant Sanctuaries: $50–$100 (€47–€94) per person

• Ethical sanctuaries only—no riding.
• Check out my article on the 10 most ethical Elephant places in Thailand.

Cooking Classes: $30–$60 (€28–€56) per person

• Half-day classes usually include market visits and a full meal.

Thai Massages & Spas: $5–$50 (€4.70–€47)

• Street massage: $5–$10 (€4.70–€9.40) for an hour
• High-end spa treatment: $30–$50 (€28–€47) per session

Guided Tours vs. DIY Sightseeing

• DIY (Do It Yourself): Renting a motorbike, taking public transport, or exploring temples on your own is the cheapest way to travel. Entrance fees are usually low, and many markets, street food stalls, and temples are free to visit.
  
• Guided Tours: More convenient but cost more. Expect to pay $20–$100 (€19–€94) per person for day tours. These usually include transport, entrance fees, and sometimes food.
  

Family Travel in Thailand: What a Trip Costs for a Family of Four

Let’s talk about the cost of family travel in Thailand. 

As a family of four, we need a two-bedroom accommodation and don’t fancy squeezing into public transport with a toddler. That means our costs look a little different from solo travelers or couples.

• Accommodation: A two-bedroom family suite in a mid-range hotel or resort costs $80–$200 per night (€75–€188), while luxury resorts with kids’ clubs start at $250 (€235)+ per night. Serviced apartments with kitchenettes (from $70 per night / €66) are great for longer stays.
• Transport: We avoid tuk-tuks and local buses with little kids (At least as a way to get around, for the cultural experience, and just for fun—definitely!). Instead, we use Grab for short trips ($3–$10 / €2.82–€9.40) or hire a private driver for $50–$100 (€47–€94) per day—a lifesaver for hassle-free sightseeing. For longer distances, domestic flights ($30–$120 / €28–€113 per person) make travel between islands or cities much easier.
• Food: A family-friendly restaurant meal costs $20–$50 (€19–€47) for four, but we often grab street food ($1–$3 / €0.94–€2.82 per dish) for quick and cheap meals.
• Activities: Family-friendly attractions, like elephant sanctuaries ($50–$100 per adult / €47–€94), water parks ($20–$50 per person / €19–€47), and island boat trips ($25–$80 per person / €24–€75),** add up but are worth it.

What You’ll Probably Spend as a Family of Four

• Budget (staying in simple hotels, eating street food, using public transport): $120–$180 per day (€113–€170)
• Mid-Range (family hotels, mix of local & Western food, private drivers, paid activities): $250–$400 per day (€235–€376)
• Luxury (resorts with kids’ clubs, fine dining, private transport, high-end activities): $500+ per day (€470+)

Thailand Travel Expenses: Visa Costs

Before packing your bags for Thailand, you’ll need to check visa rules and make sure you have travel insurance that covers the unexpected. Here’s what you need to know.

Latest Thailand Tourist Visa Fees & Updates (March 2025)

Thailand offers different visa options depending on nationality, length of stay, and purpose of travel. Below are the most up-to-date details on visa-free entry and visas on arrival.

Visa-Free Entry (Extended Duration!)

• Travelers from 64 countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, can now enter visa-free for up to 60 days.
• Visa-free stays can still be extended once for 30 more days at an immigration office for 1,900 Thai Baht (~$55 / €52).

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

• Available for 17 nationalities, including India and China.
• Stay duration: 15 days.
• Fee: 2,000 THB (~$55 / €52).
• Requirements:
  • Passport valid for at least six months.
  • Confirmed return ticket within 15 days.
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Financial proof: 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family.

Always check the latest visa requirements before traveling, as rules can change. If you plan to stay long-term, look into education visas, business visas, or digital nomad-friendly options. 

I’ve written an article on the best visa options if you plan to stay longer in Thailand. Check it out here.

Thailand Travel Expenses: Insurance Costs

Over the past few years, we’ve had countless moments where we were so grateful to have good travel insurance — from wound care after scooter accidents to my daughter’s hospital stay when she had pneumonia.

Even if you’re careful, things happen. Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended.

Estimated Cost of Travel Insurance (per trip)

• Budget Plan (basic medical coverage): $30–$50 (€28–€47) for two weeks
• Mid-Range Plan (includes trip cancellations, theft, and medical emergencies): $50–$100 (€47–€94) per trip
• Comprehensive Plan (higher coverage for adventure activities like diving or motorbikes): $100–$200 (€94–€188) per trip

Good travel insurance should cover:

 ✔ Medical expenses (hospitals in Thailand can be expensive)
 ✔ Emergency evacuation (especially if you’re visiting islands or remote areas)
 ✔ Lost/stolen belongings (phones, cameras, passports)
 ✔ Trip cancellations (flights, hotels, tours)

Popular insurance options for Thailand:

• SafetyWing
• World Nomads
• Hey Mondo
• Genki
• Allianz / AXA

💡 Tip: If you’re renting a motorbike, check if your insurance covers scooter accidents—many policies don’t unless you have a motorbike license from your home country.

Check out my article where I document my search for the best travel insurance for Thailand.

Thailand Travel Expenses: Miscellaneous

Beyond flights, hotels, and food, there are a few extra costs to consider. SIM cards, souvenirs, and tipping can add up, but nothing here will break the bank.

SIM Cards and Internet Packages

Staying connected in Thailand is cheap and easy. You can get a prepaid SIM card at the airport (don’t do that, it’s the most expensive option), 7-Eleven, or any mobile shop.

• Tourist SIM cards (7–30 days): $5–$30 (€4.70–€28) (unlimited data options available).
• Popular providers: AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC.
• eSIM options: Available for convenience—check Airalo.
• Wi-Fi: Free in most cafes, hotels, and malls, but not always fast.

If you work online, go with AIS or TrueMove—they offer the best coverage. My husband and I both use AIS SIM cards and we’re really happy with them. AIS shops are everywhere, and you can easily top up your SIM card at one of their machines. If you have a Thai bank account, you can even do it through the app.

Souvenirs, Shopping, and Travel Gear

Thailand is shopping heaven. Whether you’re after handmade crafts or cheap knock-offs, you’ll find it all—and even for me as a minimalist, it’s so hard to resist! Here’s what to expect:

• Markets & street stalls: Bargain hard—everything is overpriced for tourists.
• Souvenirs:
  • Thai silk scarves – $5–$15 (€4.70–€14.10)
  • Handmade soaps – $2–$5 (€1.88–€4.70)
  • Elephant pants – $3–$10 (€2.82–€9.40) (you’ll see them everywhere)
  • Local spices & tea – $5–$20 (€4.70–€18.80)
• Electronics & gadgets: Malls like MBK and Pantip Plaza in Bangkok have cheap tech, but quality varies.

Tips and Service Charges in Thailand

Tipping isn’t required, but it’s appreciated, especially in tourist hotspots.

• Restaurants: No tip expected, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. I like to tip 10% or more for good service.
• Taxis & tuk-tuks: Rounding up is appreciated, too.
• Hotels: Small tip for bellboys ($1–$2 / €0.94–€1.88) and housekeeping ($1 / €0.94 per day).
• Massage & spa: $1–$5 (€0.94–€4.70) tip is common for good service. I honestly think massage therapists do an incredible job. I usually tip at least 100 THB—only less if I really wasn’t happy with the massage.

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Thailand

Thailand is already a budget-friendly destination, but with a few smart tricks, you can stretch your money even further. Here’s how to travel Thailand without overspending.

Best Travel Hacks to Reduce Costs

• Book flights early – The best deals are usually found 2–3 months in advance. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices.
• Travel in the off-season – From May to October, hotels and tours are often 30–50% cheaper. Yes, it rains, but usually only for an hour or two. Check out my article on the best months to visit Thailand.
• Use public transport – Skip taxis and tuk-tuks. BTS, MRT, songthaews, and Grab are much cheaper.
• Eat local – Street food costs $1–$3 (€0.94–€2.82) per meal, while a Western-style café can be $10+ (€9.40+).
• Avoid tourist traps – If a place has laminated menus in five languages, expect higher prices and bland food.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations and Dining Options

Where to Stay on a Budget

• Hostels & guesthouses: $5–$20 (€4.70–€18.80) per night (best in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and island towns).
• Airbnb & long-term stays: Monthly rentals are cheaper than hotels.
• Book directly: Many small hotels give discounts if you book via their website instead of third-party platforms. But to be honest, I still found the best deals on Booking.com and Expedia so far.

Where to Eat for Cheap

• Street food & local markets – $1–$3 (€0.94–€2.82) for a full meal.
• Food courts in malls – $2–$5 (€1.88–€4.70) per meal, great variety, and clean.
• Vegetarian & local Thai restaurants – $3–$6 (€2.82–€5.64) per dish, much cheaper than Western spots.
• Avoid overpriced coffee shops – $5 (€4.70) for a latte in a tourist area vs. $1 (€0.94) for Thai-style iced coffee from a street vendor.

Free and Cheap Activities in Thailand

There’s plenty to do in Thailand without spending a fortune. Some of the best experiences are free or very cheap.

• Temples: Many are free or cost $1–$3 (€0.94–€2.82) to enter.
• National parks & waterfalls: Entrance fees are usually $5–$15 (€4.70–€14.10), but many hiking trails are free.
• Beaches: Totally free unless you’re on an island that charges an entry fee (Koh Tao, for example, charges a small entrance fee for a couple of beaches).
• Night markets: Great for cheap eats and people-watching.
• City parks: Lumpini Park in Bangkok, Nong Buak Hard Park in Chiang Mai (btw you can get a massage for 100 THB here!)—free, green, and great for a walk.
• Local festivals: Songkran (Thai New Year in April), Loy Krathong (lantern festival in November), and smaller cultural festivals cost nothing to enjoy.

Sample Budgets for Different Trip Lengths

How much will your trip to Thailand cost? It depends on your travel style. Here’s a rough estimate for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers based on daily expenses.

1-Week Budget in Thailand

2-Week Thailand Budget

3-Week Thailand Budget

For longer stays, costs drop since accommodation gets cheaper with monthly rentals. Digital nomads and slow travelers can live well on $1,000–$1,500 (€940–€1,410) per month, especially in Chiang Mai.

How Much is a Trip to Thailand? Final Thoughts

Thailand gives you amazing bang for your buck. You can have an incredible time on any budget. Book flights early, eat local food, and mix cheap stays with occasional splurges.

But even if you’re into luxury—like I am—you can enjoy high-end experiences here for a fraction of the price you’d pay anywhere else in the world!

What’s your dream destination in Thailand? Do you have any more questions? Please let me know in the comments. I’m happy to help!

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

Just a heads up: some links in the article “How much is a Trip to Thailand” on Nomadmum.com are affiliate links. This means if you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.