What are the most affordable places to visit in Thailand?
See the highlights of the Land of Smiles for a relatively cheap price
The Thaiger key takeaways
- Thailand is still relatively affordable in 2025, offering cheap stays, street food, and low-cost attractions across all regions.
- Key budget-friendly destinations include Pai, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Koh Tao, and Kanchanaburi.
- Travel protection matters. SafetyWing insurance ensures medical, evacuation, and trip coverage for stress-free adventures.
Thailand is one of the most affordable and beautiful places to visit in Southeast Asia this year. With beautiful landscapes, a rich culture, and plenty of low-cost activities, it is perfect for backpackers, digital nomads, and long-term travellers. To keep your trip stress-free, plan your budget carefully and consider travel protection that SafetyWing insurance provides for extra peace of mind.
On this page
| Section (Click to jump) | Summary |
|---|---|
| Northern Thailand | Highlights Pai, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai with affordable guesthouses, street food, cultural experiences, nature spots, and trekking opportunities for budget travellers. |
| Central Thailand | Covers Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai; cheap street food, budget accommodation, low-cost attractions, and convenient transport options for cultural and historic exploration. |
| Southern Thailand | Focuses on Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Ao Nang with affordable hostels, local food, low-cost transport, diving, wellness retreats, and beach activities for budget travellers. |
| Western Thailand | Features Kanchanaburi, Phetchaburi, and Ratchaburi; budget-friendly accommodations, cultural sites, local cuisine, and natural attractions like waterfalls and floating markets. |
| Travel smart with SafetyWing insurance | Essential and Complete plans for travellers and digital nomads, covering medical care, evacuation, routine check-ups, maternity, mental health, and trip protection globally. |
Northern Thailand
Pai
Pai is a small mountain town in Northern Thailand with a calm, laid-back atmosphere that attracts backpackers and budget travellers. Surrounded by green hills, waterfalls, hot springs, and viewpoints, it offers plenty of nature to explore at little cost. Guesthouses and hostels are cheap and often come with great views, while street food vendors serve delicious meals at low prices.
As one of the more affordable places to visit in Thailand, travellers can enjoy Pai’s night market filled with local crafts, music, and snacks, or join treks to hill tribe villages to learn about traditional life. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, Pai is a budget-friendly destination perfect for relaxing or exploring local culture.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, the cultural centre of Northern Thailand, is known for its ancient temples, busy markets, and surrounding nature. Most temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, have low or no entry fees. The Sunday Walking Street and other night markets offer cheap food and shopping, making it easy to experience local flavours on a budget.
This place is actually quite an affordable place to visit in Thailand, as numerous digital nomads have made Chiang Mai their home. If they are satisfied with remaining here long-term, you will definitely be glad to be visiting for a few days.
Just outside the city, visitors can find hills, waterfalls, and ethical elephant sanctuaries, all offering affordable day trips. Hiking and trekking options let travellers enjoy nature while meeting local communities. With low living costs and a lively cultural scene, Chiang Mai is a top choice for budget travellers and digital nomads.
Also: Museums and art spaces in Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is famous for the White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, a unique Buddhist temple covered in white plaster and tiny mirrors that shine in the sunlight. The entry fee is low, and the temple offers a fascinating cultural experience. Just like Chiang Mai, this city is also a pretty affordable place to visit in Thailand which offers an alternative homebase for yourself in the north.
Beyond the temple, Chiang Rai has cheap local restaurants, cosy guesthouses, and peaceful mountain scenery. Visitors can explore waterfalls, the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and hill tribe villages. It’s quieter and cheaper than Chiang Mai but offers the same mix of culture and nature.
Central Thailand
Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand’s busy capital, stays affordable for budget travellers in 2025 trying to visit. The city is full of cheap street food stalls serving dishes like pad thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled satay for just a few baht. Budget hostels and guesthouses are easy to find in areas like Khao San Road and Chinatown. They give travellers quick access to the city’s cultural and historic sites.
The transport system is also low-cost and efficient. The BTS Skytrain and riverboats make it easy to explore the city without spending much on taxis. Many attractions cost little or nothing. Wat Pho and Wat Arun charge small entry fees, while other temples are free. Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world’s largest markets, is free to enter and perfect for browsing. For a break from the crowds, Lumphini Park and Wachira Benchathat Park offer peaceful green spaces in the city centre.
Although affordable, Bangkok might be a lot more costly than the other places on the list.
Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, the old capital of Siam, is a dream for history lovers on a budget. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has ancient ruins of temples, palaces, and statues showing the city’s past glory. Major sites like Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Mahathat charge very small fees. Guesthouses and small hotels near the park offer cheap places to stay.
Food is also cheap. Local restaurants serve traditional Thai meals at low prices. Travellers can rent bicycles cheaply to ride around the ruins and enjoy both history and nature. Ayutthaya is only a short train or bus ride from Bangkok, so it works well as a day trip or overnight stop. With its mix of culture, history, and low costs, Ayutthaya stays popular with budget travellers.
Sukhothai
Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting. Its Historical Park has ancient temples and monuments surrounded by ponds and trees. Entry fees are low, and visitors can explore on foot or rent a bike for a small cost.
The town has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Street food and local markets sell authentic Northern Thai dishes at very low prices. Sukhothai is smaller and quieter than Chiang Mai or Bangkok, so it offers history and culture without the crowds or high costs. Its calm atmosphere makes it ideal for travellers wanting to save money while enjoying Thailand’s heritage.
When moving between these cities, make sure your health insurance covers all regions. SafetyWing is a smart choice for travellers. It covers emergency medical care and evacuation, helping protect your budget from unexpected costs.
Southern Thailand
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise and one of the most affordable islands in Thailand for 2025. The island has plenty of cheap hostels, guesthouses, and beachfront bungalows that offer simple but comfortable stays.
Food is also cheap. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood at prices that fit any budget. Getting to Koh Tao is easy with bus and ferry combos from Bangkok or train and ferry options from Surat Thani. Tickets cost between 1,400 and 2,100 baht, depending on the route. Once on the island, travellers can explore by renting a motorbike or simply walking, which keeps costs low and lets them enjoy the beaches and snorkelling spots freely.
Also: Backpacking in Thailand? Don’t miss these spots
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is best known for its Full Moon Parties, but it is also an affordable place to visit in Thailand with its budget-friendly stays and wellness retreats. Cheap bungalows, hostels, and guesthouses line areas like Thong Sala and the west coast beaches. Local food markets and small cafes serve affordable meals, so visitors can balance lively party nights with quiet, healthy mornings.
The island is also a hub for yoga and detox retreats at reasonable prices, attracting travellers who want both fun and relaxation. Ferries connect Koh Phangan to Koh Samui and the mainland, with budget flights to Surat Thani making the trip even cheaper. Overnight bus and ferry combos from Bangkok help travellers save on both transport and accommodation. Once there, songthaews and motorbike rentals offer cheap ways to explore the island but remember that accidents can happen, so get covered by insurance before it’s too late.
Ao Nang
Ao Nang in Krabi Province is a busy beach town that mixes natural beauty with affordable travel. It is a great base for visiting nearby islands like Railay Beach and the Phi Phi Islands. Daily longtail boat tours cost very little, so exploring the area stays within budget.
The town has many hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels close to the beach. Street food stalls and small restaurants serve delicious Thai dishes for just a few baht. Ao Nang is small and easy to walk around, so travellers rarely need expensive transport. For those seeking adventure, activities like rock climbing, snorkelling, and hiking are all available at affordable prices.
Western Thailand
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is one of Western Thailand’s top destinations for both history and nature. The province is best known for the Bridge over the River Kwai, a World War II landmark where visitors can walk the historic railway and visit museums like the Hellfire Pass Memorial. Nature lovers can explore Erawan Waterfalls, Sai Yok National Park, and the new Kanchanaburi Skywalk, which offers stunning river views.</p><p>If you want to visit this place in Thailand, you will find it affordable, where Guesthouses, homestays, and small riverside resorts are relatively cheaper than in a city like Bangkok.
Local markets and street stalls sell tasty Thai dishes at low prices. In the evenings, walking street markets and riverside dining spots create a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy food, music, and local culture without spending much.
Phetchaburi
Phetchaburi is a small town full of culture and history at a low cost. Visitors can explore temples like Wat Mahathat Worawihan or visit Khao Luang Cave with its Buddhist shrines. The Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, set on a hilltop, offers royal palaces, temples, museums, and panoramic views for a small entry fee.
The town is also famous for its local sweets, especially Khanom Mor Kaeng, a Thai custard dessert sold in family-run shops. Cheap guesthouses and small hotels provide simple but comfortable stays. With its peaceful vibe, low-cost food, and affordable cultural attractions, Phetchaburi is perfect for travellers who want authentic Thai experiences on a budget.
Ratchaburi
Ratchaburi is home to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand’s most famous markets. Here, vendors sell fresh produce, snacks, and souvenirs from their boats, creating a colourful and lively scene. Entry is free, and visitors can enjoy local food and shop for crafts at low prices.
The province also has pottery villages where artisans make and sell handmade ceramics at affordable rates. Accommodation is easy to find, with many budget guesthouses and homestays offering friendly service. Scenic rivers, street food markets, and quiet rural surroundings make Ratchaburi a great place for budget travellers who want a mix of culture, markets, and nature.
Travel smart with SafetyWing insurance
Travelling around Thailand on a budget does not mean you should ignore health and safety. SafetyWing offers two main insurance plans for travellers and digital nomads with different needs.
Essential Plan
This plan is perfect for short- to mid-term travellers who want basic protection at a low cost. It covers:
- Emergency medical care for illnesses or injuries
- Hospital stays and medical evacuation
- Travel problems like trip delays and lost luggage
Prices start at about US$56 for four weeks. It is flexible, works on a subscription model, and you can sign up even after leaving your home country. However, it does not cover routine care, maternity, or pre-existing conditions.
Complete Plan
For long-term travellers or digital nomads, the Complete Plan offers full coverage. It includes everything in the Essential Plan plus:
- Routine healthcare, like check-ups and prescriptions
- Mental health support and maternity care
- Outpatient services and trip cancellation cover
- Protection for theft and lost belongings
It covers travel in over 175 countries and even provides healthcare access during visits to your home country (with some exceptions). Prices start at around US$150.50 per month with a 12-month commitment.
Both plans give global coverage with 24/7 support, helping you travel with peace of mind while exploring Thailand’s culture, beaches, and cities. This will help you maintain your goal of having an affordable visit to any place in Thailand.
Thailand in 2025 is perfect for budget travel, with cheap stays, street food, and low-cost attractions from Chiang Mai to Koh Tao and Kanchanaburi. SafetyWing offers Essential and Complete Plans for health and travel protection.
Also: Weekend road trip routes across Thailand
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