Thailand means golden temples, markets, extraordinary food and postcard beaches. And it is one of the destinations in Asia where your budget goes furthest.
What to see in Thailand
A first route links Bangkok, the old capitals and the north, with the option to finish at the beach.
Bangkok
The Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha, the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River and the floating markets outside the city.
Royal temples require clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Ayutthaya and Sukhothai
The two former capitals of the kingdom of Siam, now World Heritage historical parks, with ruined temples and Buddhas among tree roots.
Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai
In the north, Chiang Rai’s White Temple, the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, and Chiang Mai, with more than 300 temples, night markets and elephant sanctuaries.
Phuket and Phang Nga Bay
White-sand beaches and boat trips among the limestone islets of Phang Nga, to end the trip relaxing.
Best time to visit Thailand
November to February is the cool, dry season: the best time to travel the whole country.
- Jan Ideal
- Feb Ideal
- Mar Very hot
- Apr Very hot
- May Rainy
- Jun Rainy
- Jul Rainy
- Aug Rainy
- Sep Rainy
- Oct Good
- Nov Ideal
- Dec Peak
March and April are the hottest months, above 95 °F. From May to October the monsoon rains arrive: usually afternoon showers, but the sea off Phuket is rougher.
December and January are peak season, especially at the beaches; book early.
Entry requirements for Thailand
Thailand changed its visa-exemption rules in September 2026. This is what applies today.
US passport (including Puerto Rico)
No visa for up to 30 days
- Tourist stays of up to 30 days.
- Free TDAC digital arrival card within 72 hours before arrival.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
Mexican passport
Check before you book
- Since the September 2026 change you may need an e-Visa.
- Free TDAC within 72 hours before arrival.
- We confirm the current requirement when you book.
The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is mandatory for all foreigners, including those who do not need a visa. It is free on the official immigration portal; be wary of sites that charge for it.
Official sources: TDAC digital arrival card (Thai Immigration) · Thailand e-Visa · U.S. State Department travel advisories
Is it safe to travel to Thailand?
Thailand welcomes tens of millions of tourists every year and is a safe destination. The most common nuisances are small tourist scams, easy to avoid when you travel with a guide.
- Be wary of anyone who says a temple is closed and offers to take you somewhere else: it is a classic Bangkok scam.
- Respect the monarchy and Buddha images. Do not point your feet or climb on statues; insulting the king is a crime.
- Bottled water and sunscreen. Heat and humidity are intense most of the year.
- Elephants only at ethical sanctuaries. Skip elephant rides.
Our Thailand tours
Tours with Spanish-speaking guides through Bangkok and the north, with the option to finish in Phuket. Prices per person in a double room, without international flights.
- Thailand for Everyone Bangkok · Sukhothai · Chiang Rai · Chiang Mai See the tour
- Thailand Complete with Phuket Bangkok · Sukhothai · Chiang Rai · Chiang Mai · Phuket See the tour
See every Asia tour, with day-by-day itineraries, on our Far East page.
Suggested itinerary: Thailand in 8 days
The route of our Thailand for Everyone tour, from Bangkok to the north.
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Days 1–3
Bangkok
Arrival, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, and a free day.
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Day 4
Ayutthaya and Sukhothai
The former capitals of the kingdom of Siam.
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Day 5
Lampang and Chiang Rai
Heading north and a night in Chiang Rai.
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Days 6–8
Golden Triangle and Chiang Mai
The Golden Triangle, Chiang Mai, a free day and the flight out.
Frequently asked questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Thailand?
Not for tourist stays of up to 30 days under the rules in force since September 2026. You do need to complete the TDAC within 72 hours before arrival and a passport valid for 6 months.
What do Mexican citizens need to travel to Thailand?
The rules for Mexican passports changed in September 2026 and you may need an e-Visa. We confirm the current requirement when you book; the TDAC is required in every case.
What is the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card. It is free and mandatory for all foreigners, completed on the official immigration portal within 72 hours before the trip.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
November to February, the cool, dry season. March and April are very hot, and May to October is rainy.
Is Thailand expensive to visit?
It is one of the best-value destinations in Asia. Our 8-day tour with hotels and a guide costs from $2,149 per person, without flights.
