Thailand travel guide: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and island routes
Thailand offers very different trips: energetic Bangkok, northern cultural routes and southern island coastlines. Focusing on a few regions usually feels better than spending every day in transit.
Visa details last checked: 28 October 2026What to know before visiting Thailand
Plan Bangkok around temples, river transport, markets and food. Chiang Mai brings northern culture and nature, while Phuket or Krabi works as a separate beach section. Check whether flights, island transfers, boat trips and baggage rules are included when comparing Thailand tours.
Places to explore
Bangkok
Plan the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, river piers and night markets around the heat and opening times.
Chiang Mai
A slower northern option with old-town temples, markets and nearby nature.
Phuket
A base for beaches, boat trips and island excursions; sea conditions can change plans.
Krabi and nearby islands
Known for limestone scenery and boat-access bays; confirm boat times and weather.
Local food to try
Pad Thai
A popular street dish of rice noodles, egg, vegetables and a chosen protein.
Tom yum
An aromatic sour soup; ask about spice levels when ordering.
Mango sticky rice
A dessert of mango and coconut-scented sticky rice.
A route to consider
- 01
City days in Bangkok
Visit temples and museums earlier in the day; save markets and food stops for the evening.
- 02
Choose north or south
Pick Chiang Mai for culture and nature, or the Phuket–Krabi corridor for coast and islands.
- 03
Plan island transfers
Keep ferry and speedboat times clear of flight connections and leave room for weather changes.
Before you go
- Rain and sea conditions vary by region and month.
- Respect dress and footwear rules at temples.
- From 15 September 2026, Turkish ordinary-passport holders have a 30-day tourist visa exemption; all travellers should complete TDAC within three days before arrival.
Entry and visa notes
The current Turkish MFA notice states that from 15 September 2026 the tourist visa exemption for Turkish ordinary-passport holders is 30 days; it says the former 60-day condition applies to people who entered before that date. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) should be completed within the three days before arrival. Recheck official sources before departure.
Entry rules depend on nationality, passport type and purpose of travel. Recheck official guidance before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to complete TDAC before visiting Thailand?+
The Turkish MFA says all travellers should complete TDAC three days before their arrival date. Check the official link and rules before departure.
How long can Turkish citizens stay visa-free in Thailand?+
A 30-day tourist visa exemption is stated from 15 September 2026. Confirm passport type, entry date and travel purpose in the latest official notice.