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It’s impossible to sum up Thailand in a few words. The land of smiles is known the world over for its spectacular natural landscapes, bustling resorts and captivating historical resorts, from beautiful Buddhist temples to grand palaces.
This outstanding part of the world has long been the first port of call for holidaymakers looking to explore Southeast Asia. One of the main appeals of a Thailand holiday is the country's incredible diversity and wide choice of destinations, from the bustling surroundings of Bangkok to the luxurious Koh Samui coast.
Thailand’s exceptional tourist trade shows no signs of dwindling, either. The country’s reputation for being one of the world’s favourite holiday destinations is no coincidence. A mixture of endearing hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere sees millions flock to this sublime region, year after year.
Browse our selection of cheap 5 star Thailand holidays to discover this exotic destination, and sample the diverse culture that’s a source of inspiration for millions. Our cheap luxury trips to Asia will allow you to go on holiday to Thailand in 2025 / 2026 without it costing the earth. For the ultimate experience, we'd recommend our Thailand multicentre holidays.
Flights: You can fly to Bangkok from most major UK airports. However, getting to other destinations in Thailand may include a stop off on the way.
Passport/visa requirements: You must hold a valid British passport. This allows you to visit Thailand for less than 30 days without requiring a visa.
Packing essentials: Due to Thailand’s tropical climate it is best to pack light clothing. You should also include sunglasses, a sun hat and a light rain mac. If you plan to visit any temples or sacred sites, make sure that you pack clothes which cover your legs and shoulders.
Things to do in Bangkok
Energy and excitement ooze from every corner of Thailand’s diverse capital city. Take a tour of Bangkok via Tuk Tuk, where you’ll see ornate temples, historic palaces and modern skyscrapers – we’d recommend the Lopburi monkey temple for a really special experience. Learn how to rustle up authentic local dishes at a Thai cooking class, or hit the night food markets to discover traditional street food. A unique shopping experience can be had amidst the floating stalls on the Chao Phraya River, or set sail for a romantic dinner cruise. For a livelier evening out, a Thai boxing showcase provides an action-packed treat, while the nightlife hotspots of Khao San Road and Patpong are options. A much more sombre experience awaits a short drive outside of Bangkok, at Bridge 277, ‘The Bridge On The River Kwai’, the most famous section of the Burma-Siam (Thailand) railway. The line was built by Allied POWs during the Second World War, with an estimated 16,000 thought to have died during its construction, as well as around 90,000 forced labourers.
Things to do in Phuket
Heavenly beaches, lush forests, booming entertainment zones and much more await in Thailand’s ultimate holiday destination, Phuket. Soar across the jungle canopy on a zipline or explore its secrets on a quad biking safari. Phuket is also home to a number of ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can interact, feed and bathe the gentle giants. Cool off from the glorious sunshine with a day trip to the exciting Anamanda Water Park, relax on a boat trip around the Similan Islands or feed your love of the local cuisine with a Thai cooking class. Evenings in Phuket offer epic nightclubs, unbelievable entertainment at the Simon Cabaret show and exhilarating sporting spectacles in the Thai boxing arena.
Things to do in Koh Samui
Experience a true taste of Thailand when you visit Koh Samui. Blending nightlife, beauty, culture, relaxation and excitement, there’s something here for everyone on this magnificent island. Set off on a quad bike to discover waterfalls, rock formations, verdant jungles or hit the waves on a speed boat to visit Koh Phangan. A cruise to spot pink dolphins is another option, or you could sail to nearby Pig Island (Koh Madsum), which is perfect for an epic day of soaking up the sun and interacting with the resident pigs. Adrenaline seekers will love taking in all the sights from above, with a ride on the thrilling Samui Zipline, while sports fans won’t want to miss the opportunity to catch a Thai boxing match. If nature is more your thing, a visit to one of Koh Samui’s ethical elephant sanctuary is definitely a must.
Things to do in Khao Lak
Escape the bustle of some of the better known resorts without missing out on any unique experiences on your Thailand holiday. Explore the delights of Khao Lak by land and by water and discover a whole host of activities and attractions. The nearby Surin and Similan islands are exceptional places for snorkelling, while rafting and quad biking are other pursuits on offer. Venture out after sunset for some twilight sea canoeing in search of the glowing bioluminescent plankton, or enjoy a day trip to Cheow Lan Lake to take in the spectacular scenery. Film buffs won’t want to miss a tour of James Bond island, named after its appearance in The Man With The Golden Gun, while ornamental temples, nature reserves and ethical elephant sanctuaries all provide opportunities to make precious memories.
Things to do in Krabi
Venture to the small cluster of islands that form Thailand’s picturesque Krabi region for an exhilarating adventure holiday. Water enthusiasts will have a magical time kayaking in Ao Thalane. This stunning bay boasts crystal-clear cerulean waters that conceal a host of tropical sea life. There’s also the opportunity to dive beneath the waves for some snorkelling and take in stunning sunsets during an unforgettable cruise aboard a classic junk boat. Alternatively, you could set sail to nearby Phi Phi, James Bond or Hong Islands for even more exploration, relaxation and fun.
Things to do in Hua Hin
Relax in the serenity of this picturesque resort not far from the bustling capital of Bangkok. Hua Hin has been renowned as a hotspot for holidays in Thailand, with the royal family once favouring these sun-kissed golden shores. The Kui Nuri National Park is an excellent area to explore if you want to experience unspoilt natural beauty and spy some elusive wildlife, while Vana Nava Water Jungle is a colourful aquatic wonderland perfect for family fun. For some unrivalled cultural exploits, visit the Amphawa floating market and the Maeklong railway market to buy unique mementos of your Thailand holiday. More culture and heritage can be enjoyed through Thai cooking classes at your luxury resort, or you can immerse yourself in Thailand’s poignant past with a day trip to discover ‘The Bridge On The River Kwai’.
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Rural bliss awaits in the mythical jungle-cloaked mountains of Chiang Mai, where you can enjoy escapes into nature, romantic retreats and unforgettable family holidays. Get to know this realm of cultural wonders with a city and temple tour, or relax in the Chiang Mai hot springs. Here mineral pools and massage treatments make for the perfect day of wellness and serenity – there’s even a playground for those visiting with children. Guided tours of the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple will reveal the deep-rooted spirituality of Thailand, as well as showcase the magnificent architecture. Alternatively, you could seek out natural beauty and enrichment exploring Doi Inthanon National Park, or getting acquainted with the elephants at one of the ethical sanctuaries in the area. If active ventures are more your thing, you’ll have the chance to enjoy white water rafting, quad biking and ziplining, or you may prefer to spectate in a nail-biting Thai Boxing match.
Things to do in Phi Phi
Escape on a tropical island getaway to Phi Phi, an archipelago off the south-west coast of Thailand. Top up your tan on one of the many powdery beaches such as Nui Beach, Laem Tong Beach or Monkey Beach, where a colony of macaques reside in the bordering treeline. Dive beneath the turquoise waters to discover an exceptional spot for snorkelling. Keep an eye out for the colourful shoals of fish! For a bird’s-eye-view of the island and the expansive Andaman Sea, enjoy a climb up to the Koh Phi Phi View Point.
If you’re craving a beach holiday that promises to exceed all expectations, you can’t go wrong with Thailand.
From glorious golden sands to sugar-soft white shores, Thailand’s best beaches are second to none.
The island of Phuket is a popular option for luxury escapes, offering a number of breathtaking stretches of sand, along with stunning natural scenery, colourful nightlife and a selection of lavish hotels and resorts.
Another destination known for its immaculate beaches is Koh Samui. Located off the east coast of Thailand, this enchanting island offers a good choice of 4 and 5-star accommodation, and is a top location for both nightlife and scuba diving in Thailand.
Hua Hin is another great choice. This former summer retreat for the Thai royal family offers white sand shores, emerald waters and a great choice of hotels.
The mesmerising beaches and secluded coves of Krabi are also popular with visitors to Thailand, while the resort of Khao Lak offers a laid-back coastal retreat, ideal for couples and families.
As night falls, Thailand's cities, towns and resorts come alive!
Whether it’s late-night shopping, dining or all-night partying in the busy entertainment districts, you will never be stuck looking for something to do at night in Thailand.
Although night markets are a feature right across the country, the best night market in Thailand is situated in the capital - the Bangkok Night Markets.
Rot Fai market is known for its huge size and hordes of memorabilia and vintage gifts. It moved in 2013 from the north of the city to the east, but this didn’t take away any of the original charm.
If you want something with a bit more wow factor to the usual stalls, then ChangChui is perfect for that.
Dubbed the ‘plane market’, ChangChui is one of the newest additions to the already busy night market culture, but it has one incredibly cool feature that makes it stand out - a huge aeroplane with stalls underneath sits in the middle of the market, for amazing shopping and photo opportunities.
Almost everyone makes a point of visiting some Thailand’s temples during the day, but many miss out on revisiting once the sun goes down.
Come nighttime, most Thai temples are even free to visit, including Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew.
Other options are to take a river cruise at night to see many temples that are in close proximity, or take a taxi tour around the city to discover the main attractions.
It needs little explanation that Thailand is one of the party capitals of the world.
Popular hotspots include;Phuket
Carefree days of bliss await along the 6km soft sandy shoreline of Bang Tao Beach, a tropical haven of delight perfect for family holidays in Phuket. Here you’ll find a superb choice of exceptional hotels nestled along this stunning stretch, which includes the Laguna Phuket area. Here’s a taste of what awaits:
Khao Lak
Travel to the sun-soaked beachfront of Khao Lak in Thailand’s Phang Nga province for the ultimate family holiday in paradise. Seek out the perfect spot on one of the pristine white-sand beaches along the mesmerising 20 kilometre-long coastline. Here’s a flavour of what you and your family can expect:
Koh Samui
Jet off to the northern shores of Koh Samui to enjoy the blissful beach of Bo Phut. This quaint fishing village offers everything you need for a tranquil Thailand family holiday, from stunning scenery to luxury amenities that are just a stone’s throw away from your hotel. Take a look at what awaits:
Krabi
The powdery Ao Nang shoreline in Krabi is a sublime choice for your Thailand family holiday if you’re seeking a blend of fun and relaxation. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer:
Hua Hin and Cha Am
You may be surprised to know that there are tranquil, family-friendly holiday hotspots only a short land transfer away from the glitz and glamour of the capital, Bangkok. Hua Hin and Cha Am are two stunning destinations oozing luxury and sophistication as well as entertainment and excitement. Here’s what else is on offer:
There’s absolutely no end to the irresistible culinary delights that can be found during a holiday in Thailand.
Whether dining in a bustling street food market, a family-run eatery or a Michelin-starred restaurant, you’ll find fresh, fragrant and flavourful cuisine to suit every palate and budget.
Aromatic curries, scrumptious stir-fried noodle dishes and tasty seafood specialities are just a few of the delights on menus right across this exotic land, with gastronomic influences including India and China.
Discovering Thailand’s national dish, Pad Thai, is a must. This affordable and tasty fried noodle treat often features tofu, eggs, beansprouts and delicious sauces. If you like a bit of spice, green, red and yellow curries are also popular, offering a variety of heat levels to suit your tolerance, and usually made with chicken, pork, shrimp or vegetables for extra flavour.
Tom Yam (spicy soup), chicken satay skewers, Som Tam (papaya salad), Khao Klukh Krapi (rice with shrimp paste), Pad Kra Prao (minced pork and rice) and Pad Woon Sen (stir-fried glass noodles) are among the other savoury delights to sample.
Then, if you’ve got room for dessert, your options include mango sticky rice, sweet Thai crepe, mung bean candy and coconut ice cream.
Wash it all down with a refreshing fresh fruit juice, a cool Thai iced milk tea or a Sabai Sabai cocktail made with Thailand’s ‘national spirit’, Mekhong, as well as lemon juice, sugar syrup, sweet basil and soda.
Where To Eat
Traditional food markets are superb places to sample authentic Thai dishes. You’ll find the largest selection of Asian street food in Bangkok’s Chinatown, while Hua Hin Night Market is a wonderful spot for fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, squid and lobster. If you’re seeking sustenance while visiting Phuket, Chillva Night Market is home to an array of pop-up and permanent food stalls selling a variety of delectable eats.
Domestic flights are usually one of the easiest ways to get around Thailand, and with surprisingly cheap internal flights, it usually works out cost-effective. Both national and international airlines run multiple flights daily across the country, which will suit all kinds of travellers.
Expert tip: make sure to check specific airline baggage allowances..
Thailand’s railway system is constantly evolving year-on-year, with rail travel offering a typically safer alternative than coaches and buses. While it can be slow, as it stands, Thai railways are government-owned, so you can usually find cheap trains in Thailand. Travelling by rail also offers you the chance to meet new friends or just sit back and relax, enjoying the beautiful scenery out the window.
Travelling by coach or bus in Thailand is extremely cheap and convenient for most destinations. Short-distance bus trips can be found easily in any city or major town, although some routes include a lot of stops, so if you’re in a rush, taxis may be the way to go.
For short journeys you can also hire a tuk-tuk, for a unique view of cities at a fraction of tour prices. For taxis in Thailand, get a price beforehand and try to book in advance with respected companies. In busier cities like Bangkok, Uber also runs a competitive and safe option.
A necessity for island hopping in Thailand! Ferries travel to popular islands like Ko Phi Phi and Koh Samui regularly during peak season. Times and schedules vary, but a good rule of thumb is: the quicker the ferry, the more expensive the ticket.
Expert tip: during monsoon season (May to October) many ferry companies operate revised services, so check before planning your holiday.
Where is Thailand located?
Thailand is located in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with the countries of Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia.
What currency is used in Thailand?
Thailand’s official currency is Thai Baht.
What’s the time difference between the UK and Thailand?
Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMT.
How long should you stay in Thailand?
Depending on the type of holiday you are after, tourists can spend anywhere from a week to a month in Thailand. We would recommend a multicentre holiday for a minimum of 10 nights in order to get the best of city living and island relaxation.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
Generally, we would recommend visiting Thailand between November and March (the dry season).
What is the best place to visit in Thailand?
Chiang Mai offers a taste of jungle life, meeting elephants and sight-seeing in northern Thailand. In the south, Phuket, Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi are excellent destinations for picturesque beach holidays.
Please note that it is your responsibility to check with the embassy/consulate of the country you are visiting for the latest entry requirements and ensure you adhere to them.
What are the passport requirements for holidays in Thailand?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date you enter the country and have at least one blank page.
What are the visa requirements for holidays in Thailand?
As of May 1, 2025, all foreign nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within the three days prior to arrival. Please follow the instructions on the official Thai Immigration Bureau website - https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home.
Once completed, you will be sent a QR code that you must present upon your arrival in Thailand. You can either print this out or show it on your mobile device.
This covers visitors who are staying in Thailand for up to 60 days. If you are intending on staying longer, you will need to apply for a visa. Please follow the instructions of the Thai E-Visa Official Website - https://www.thaievisa.go.th/.
How can I avoid travel disruption?
Set a reminder three days before your outbound flight to make sure you have plenty of time before departure to fill out your TDAC, otherwise getting through customs in Thailand will take even longer. Ensure all information provided matches your passport and travel documents and that you are completely prepared before you travel to your UK airport. Get there early to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Do you need a visa to visit Thailand?
No. British passport holders can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days. If you want an extended stay, you are required to apply for a visa before you travel.
How long is the flight from the UK to Thailand?
The flight from London Heathrow Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) takes approximately 11 to 12 hours.
Who flies to Thailand from the UK?
Thai Airways, British Airways and Eva Air all currently offer daily direct flights from London Heathrow Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok). A number of other airlines provide connecting flights from other airports in the UK or to other airports in Thailand.
Can I fly direct to Thailand?
Yes, but currently only from London Heathrow Airport. If you want to fly from other major UK airports, such as London Gatwick, Manchester or Edinburgh, there are connecting flights available.
What is the weather like in Thailand?
Thailand enjoys glorious sunshine and high temperatures (ranging between the high 20s and low 30s) all year round. The best time to visit is November-March, when there's usually plenty of sun and rainfall is minimal. You should expect short-lasting, but heavy rain showers, especially in the wet season (July-October) in certain parts of Thailand.
What language is spoken in Thailand?
Thai is the official language of Thailand. Many locals also speak English relatively well, especially in touristy areas.
Can you drink alcohol in Thailand?
Yes, and it is comparatively cheap to do so. The legal drinking age is 20.
Can you travel between destinations in Thailand?
Definitely. Thailand is well-prepared for tourists who want to travel domestically, with regular boat rides between islands, and overnight buses and sleeper trains for longer journeys on land.
Is Thailand safe to visit?
Thailand is relatively safe, especially when in your resort or busy areas. If visiting less built-up areas, we would advise travelling with caution as some can be prone to crime.
Does Thailand have mosquitoes?
As Thailand is a tropical country, it does have mosquitoes. Most 7-Eleven stores sell local insect repellent spray.
Are plugs in Thailand the same as in the UK?
No, Thailand uses different plug sockets. They are compatible with plugs that have flat parallel prongs (used in US/Japan) or two round pins (used in Europe/Asia). Therefore, a travel adapter is essential if you want to charge any electrical appliance. Fortunately, Thailand uses the same voltage as the UK.
Is Thailand expensive for a holiday?
Long-haul flights to Thailand can be relatively expensive, but the rest is very cheap. Thailand has some of the most reasonably priced luxury resorts in the world. Once you arrive, dining, drinking, taxi fares and activities are all very affordable.
Is Thailand a good family holiday destination?
Yes. Thailand is one of the most family-friendly holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. We would recommend Phuket and Koh Samui for all ages.
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