11 Cheapest Places In Thailand To Visit

Are you planning a trip to Thailand and looking for the cheapest places to visit in Thailand?

Thailand has long been considered one of the most affordable countries in the world for travelers, and despite recent increases in global travel prices, it still holds that reputation strong.

Yes, some of Thailand’s most popular destinations, like Phuket and Koh Samui, have become more expensive in recent years. But they’re still manageable for budget-conscious travelers, especially backpackers and digital nomads.

Here’s something important to remember: even if your accommodation costs a bit more than expected, local food in Thailand is incredibly cheap and delicious, and that alone can dramatically stretch your budget.

This list doesn’t focus on remote towns or destinations with little to do. Instead, we’ll explore the best cheap places in Thailand for tourists, locations filled with things to see and do, from historic cities and cultural landmarks to laid-back beach towns and stunning islands.

Chiang Mai

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $25 USD

Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand, and hands down, the cheapest place to visit in Thailand.

This mountain-framed city blends ancient culture with modern amenities, making it an ideal stop for both budget travelers and those who crave a laid-back pace.

A quick one-hour flight from Bangkok (via either Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport), Chiang Mai is extremely well-connected.

And once you arrive, you’ll find that nearly everything — from accommodations to food and transportation-is surprisingly affordable.

There’s a reason Chiang Mai has become a favorite among digital nomads, long-term travelers, and backpackers. The city is filled with vibrant night markets, ornate temples, and lush national parks, all just a short motorbike ride away.

Whether you’re hiking in Doi Suthep National Park, enjoying a bowl of Khao Soi at a local food stall, or browsing handmade crafts at the Sunday Night Market, Chiang Mai lets you experience authentic Thai culture without overspending.

Pai

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $29 USD

Pai is a charming mountain village nestled in the lush hills of Northern Thailand, about a 3–4 hour drive from Chiang Mai.

Known as a backpacker haven, Pai has become one of the most beloved destinations in the north.

Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and vibrant green rice fields, Pai is packed with natural beauty and scenic viewpoints, including the famous Pai Canyon, Yun Lai Viewpoint, and the hilltop Phra That Mae Yen temple.

The village has a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere that is ideal for travelers looking to slow down, enjoy nature, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Despite its size, Pai has a lively social scene, featuring a sprawling night market, live music venues, local bars, and excellent coffee shops.

Pai is also one of the best places in Thailand to catch a sunrise or sunset. If you’re looking to unwind in the mountains without spending much, Pai is easily one of the cheapest and most rewarding places to visit in Thailand.

Chiang Rai

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $31 USD

Located just a few hours north of Chiang Mai and close to the borders of Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Rai is a quiet, scenic town known for its mountainous landscapes and peaceful pace of life.

It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking affordability, culture, and calm in Northern Thailand.

Chiang Rai is most famous for its striking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a surreal, contemporary Buddhist temple unlike any other in the country. Other highlights include the Blue Temple, the Black House Museum, nearby rice paddies, and rolling green hills.

While Chiang Rai has fewer tourists than Chiang Mai, it offers an excellent option for a slower-paced travel experience.

Food and accommodation are reasonably priced, although food can sometimes be slightly more expensive than in Chiang Mai due to the limited number of street food vendors and options.

The town has undergone modernization in recent years, with the addition of new restaurants, apartment buildings, and even a shopping mall, yet it still retains a peaceful, small-town vibe. If you want to explore Northern Thailand at a slower pace while still enjoying cultural attractions, Chiang Rai is a budget-friendly choice worth considering.

Koh Phangan

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $36 USD

Koh Phangan is a lush tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, best known for its world-famous Full Moon Party.

Each month, thousands of travelers descend on the island’s Haad Rin Beach to celebrate under the moonlight and experience something unlike anywhere else in Southeast Asia. But there’s much more to Koh Phangan than its party reputation.

Beyond the nightlife, you’ll find quiet beaches, scenic viewpoints, cozy cafes, yoga retreats, and a growing community of digital nomads.

The island offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, making it one of the best cheap places to visit in Thailand.

Despite being an island, Koh Phangan remains surprisingly affordable for visitors. Street food, motorbike rentals, and beachfront bungalows are all reasonably priced. It’s also easy to reach by ferry from neighboring Koh Samui or Koh Tao.

Whether you’re looking to party or unwind near turquoise waters, Koh Phangan is a versatile destination that won’t break your budget.

Kanchanaburi

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $38 USD

Located just 123 km from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a small riverside city renowned for its stunning natural scenery and rich World War II history.

With a population of around 65,000, it offers a more traditional and laid-back Thai experience, all within a two-hour drive from the capital.

Nature lovers flock here to visit Erawan National Park and Sinakharin Dam National Park, both of which offer lush forests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and an abundance of wildlife. These parks are among the best natural areas in Thailand, serving as a haven for hikers and photographers alike.

Kanchanaburi also holds historical significance; it’s home to the Bridge over the River Kwai and several museums dedicated to the region’s wartime past.

The cost of visiting remains low, especially when compared to other destinations this close to Bangkok. Local food, transportation, and budget-friendly guesthouses are easily accessible.

Thanks to its lower humidity during Thailand’s hot season and peaceful atmosphere, Kanchanaburi is a favorite among retirees and travelers looking for a slower pace.

Ayutthaya

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $40 USD

Once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, Ayutthaya is now one of Thailand’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it’s located just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok.

Many travelers choose to visit as a day trip from Bangkok, but staying overnight offers a much deeper experience.

The city is renowned for its temple ruins and picturesque river surroundings, where centuries-old chedis and prangs stand amidst lush greenery. Don’t miss Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple, and Wat Mahathat, home to the famous Buddha head entangled in tree roots.

Ayutthaya also offers cultural experiences beyond temples, such as the Ayothaya Floating Market, where you can enjoy local dishes and purchase unique souvenirs.

The overall vibe is relaxed and quiet, making it perfect for a peaceful few days of exploration by bicycle or on foot.

However, nightlife is virtually nonexistent here, making it best suited for those seeking a calm, reflective experience rooted in Thai history.

Krabi Town

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $42 USD

Krabi Town is ideal for travelers seeking to experience an authentic Thai small-town atmosphere while being close to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural scenery.

Although often overshadowed by nearby Ao Nang or the islands, Krabi Town offers one significant advantage: affordability. The town is filled with budget hostels, cheap markets, and incredibly low-cost street food, making it a favorite among backpackers.

From Krabi Town, you can easily book day trips to some of Thailand’s most iconic destinations, including Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Railay Beach. Speedboat transfers are a convenient and affordable option, typically costing around $20 USD per person.

At night, don’t miss the Krabi Night Market, known for its local crafts and excellent food stalls. The town also sits along a scenic riverfront, offering a relaxing setting that is less crowded than more touristy areas.

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly base with easy access to the islands, Krabi Town is one of the best cheap places to visit in Thailand.

Hua Hin

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $44 USD

Located along the coast just south of Bangkok, Hua Hin is a relaxed seaside town known for its laid-back charm, low travel costs, and easy access from the capital.

It’s a favorite for those who want beach access without the inflated costs of places like Koh Samui or Phuket. Hua Hin’s appeal lies in its combination of long beachfront, lush green mountains, and local atmosphere.

The town is packed with seafood restaurants, temples, and vibrant night markets. Whether you’re craving grilled prawns or browsing handmade goods, Hua Hin delivers at a fraction of the price you’d pay in more touristy areas.

Despite its growing popularity among retirees and digital nomads, Hua Hin still retains a distinctly local feel. While condos and hotels have begun to appear along the shoreline, the town remains noticeably less developed than major expat hubs.

The journey from Bangkok is easy, taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes by car (193 km). Alternatively, you can opt for the train, bus, or Grab.

If you’re looking for Thailand’s cheapest beach destination, Hua Hin is arguably the most affordable coastal town to visit and live in.

Koh Chang

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $50 USD

Koh Chang, located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast near the Cambodian border, is one of the country’s largest islands, yet it’s home to just around 5,000 residents. Despite its size, Koh Chang remains relatively untouched by mass tourism compared to other popular islands.

The island is a tropical paradise featuring lush rainforests, white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Much of the land is protected within Mu Koh Chang National Park, and the island offers a diverse range of activities, including jungle treks, waterfalls, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach hopping.

Lonely Beach is especially popular among backpackers for its affordable beach bars, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning coastline. Other areas around the island each carry their distinct feel, with everything from rustic bungalows to boutique hotels, all at a relatively low cost.

Getting to Koh Chang from Bangkok is easier than you’d think: take a 5-hour journey by bus and ferry. The island offers that off-the-beaten-path experience many travelers seek, with a quieter, slower-paced vibe than Thailand’s more commercialized islands.

If you’re looking for an affordable island getaway with nature, beaches, and a more authentic local feel, Koh Chang is one of Thailand’s best cheap places to visit.

Koh Lanta

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $52 USD

Koh Lanta is a laid-back tropical island situated in the Andaman Sea, accessible by ferry from the mainland of Krabi or nearby islands such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Jum.

Often described as Thailand’s best-kept island secret, Koh Lanta is known for its bohemian atmosphere, long stretches of quiet beaches, healthy coral reefs, and dense mangrove forests. The island also offers several scenic viewpoints where you can enjoy stunning sunsets over the water.

The island is split into two main parts, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai, connected by the Siri Lanta Bridge on the northern side. Most visitors stay on Koh Lanta Yai, where you’ll find the majority of beaches, cafes, and accommodations.

What makes Koh Lanta one of the cheapest places to visit in Thailand is the abundance of budget-friendly accommodations, including beachfront hostels, bungalows, and boutique hotels. It’s the perfect spot for anyone seeking peaceful island life without the crowds.

While tourism and digital nomads have increased in recent years, Koh Lanta still retains its relaxed, under-the-radar charm, making it ideal for long-term travelers or visitors seeking to unwind by the sea without overspending.

Bangkok

Average Daily Visitor Cost: $57 USD

Thailand’s capital city is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and contrast, where ancient temples meet towering skyscrapers, and street food stalls thrive beside luxury malls.

Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, diverse shopping options, bustling night markets, and world-class cuisine. It’s also one of the cheapest major metropolitan cities in the world for travelers.

You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred street food to global cuisine at wallet-friendly prices, a big reason why Bangkok remains a top destination for foodies.

Despite being a megacity, Bangkok is incredibly affordable for visitors. With inexpensive transportation via the BTS (Skytrain) and MRT (Subway), getting around is easy and cheap. The city also offers two airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK) for international travel and Don Mueang (DMK) for budget domestic flights.

Accommodations in Bangkok suit every budget. Whether you want to stay in a luxury riverside hotel or a backpacker-friendly guesthouse near Khao San Road, the options are endless.

Bangkok remains a favorite among digital nomads, expats, and long-term travelers due to its accessibility, convenience, and unbeatable cost-to-experience value. You can spend big here, but you don’t have to.

Tips for Visiting Thailand on a Budget

Thailand is one of the most affordable countries in the world to visit, but your daily expenses can vary depending on your travel style.

Whether you’re backpacking Southeast Asia or looking to stretch your vacation dollars, these tips will help you stay within budget while exploring the best of Thailand.

Budget travel in Thailand isn’t about sacrificing comfort; it’s about spending smart. These tips can help you experience the country’s best places without overspending, allowing you to focus your budget on activities and destinations that matter most to you.

• Eat Local Food: Skip the Western restaurants and eat at local spots, night markets, or street vendors. Dishes like Pad Thai, Khao Soi, and Som Tam often cost under $2 USD and are far more flavorful than international alternatives.

• Withdraw Cash Strategically: ATM fees in Thailand are notoriously high, around 220 THB (~$6 USD) per withdrawal, plus your home bank may charge you additional fees. A good rule of thumb is to withdraw what you need in larger amounts rather than making frequent small withdrawals.

• Travel by Bus or Train: Buses and trains are significantly cheaper than domestic flights, especially for short to mid-range routes. Thailand’s rail system is scenic and affordable, making it perfect for budget travelers who want to explore at a slower pace.

• Use Grab or Songthaews Instead of Taxis: Grab is often cheaper than hailing a taxi, especially in major cities. In smaller towns, shared songthaews (local trucks) can cost as little as $0.50 for short rides. Skip the TukTUks!

• Travel During the Off Season: Visiting Thailand between March and May or September and October can save you money on accommodation and tours while avoiding the peak tourist crowds. Just be mindful of regional weather.

• Refill Water Bottles Instead of Buying New Ones Many hostels and cafes offer free filtered water. Refilling your bottle not only saves money but reduces plastic waste — a small but impactful choice while traveling.

Thailand Budget Destinations: Final Thoughts

Thailand continues to rank among the world’s most affordable travel destinations, not just for backpackers, but for all types of travelers looking to explore Southeast Asia on a budget.

While places like Phuket and Koh Samui have grown in popularity and cost, there are still many affordable destinations in Thailand that offer rich experiences without the price tag.

From mountain towns like Chiang Mai and Pai to beachside escapes like Koh Lanta and Koh Chang, Thailand offers a wide range of destinations where your money goes further, without sacrificing comfort or culture.

Whether you’re planning a short vacation or a more extended stay, you’ll find that the best budget destinations in Thailand still deliver incredible value.

Spend wisely, explore locally, and take your time. That’s the key to making the most of Thailand on a budget.

Cost estimates in this article are sourced from BudgetYourTrip and reflect recent daily averages as of 2025.