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Travel in Thailand: the complete practical guide

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Wat Arun temple lit up at night in Bangkok
Contents

In short: Thailand combines Bangkok, the cultural north around Chiang Mai and the southern islands. Note: visa-exemption rules changed in 2026 (for French citizens, 30 days since 15 September 2026, down from 60), and the TDAC digital arrival card is mandatory.

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When to go to Thailand

  • November to February: the dry season and the most pleasant in most of the country, but the busiest.
  • March to May: very hot.
  • June to October: the rainy season, with heavy but often short showers; the climate differs between coasts (the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea have different seasons).

Entry requirements

  • Visa exemption: depends on nationality; since 15 September 2026, French citizens can stay up to 30 days visa-free. Longer stays need a visa.
  • TDAC arrival card: complete it online within three days before arrival, on the official website.
  • Passport valid for at least six months.

Check the latest rules before you go, they change regularly.

Arriving in Bangkok

From Suvarnabhumi airport, the Airport Rail Link reaches Phaya Thai station, in the centre, in about 30 minutes. Official taxis and ride-hailing apps complete the options.

Getting around Thailand

  • In Bangkok: the Skytrain (BTS), the metro (MRT) and river boats avoid traffic jams.
  • Between regions: domestic flights (Bangkok to Chiang Mai in about an hour), the night train to the north, buses and ferries to the islands.

Money, internet and practicalities

  • Currency: the baht. Cards are accepted in hotels and malls; cash is essential in markets and on the street.
  • Internet: install a travel eSIM before you leave.
  • Temples: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off in prayer halls.

What to see in Thailand

  • Bangkok: the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, markets and street food.
  • Chiang Mai: old-city temples, Doi Suthep, the northern mountains.
  • And also: Ayutthaya’s ruins (a day trip from Bangkok), Chiang Rai, the islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta).

Suggested itinerary

2 weeks: 3 days in Bangkok (with Ayutthaya), 4 days in Chiang Mai and the north, then a week on the islands.

Where to stay

Our Bangkok and Chiang Mai pages present the best areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

Rules depend on nationality and changed in 2026: since 15 September 2026, French citizens can stay up to 30 days visa-free (down from 60 days). All foreign visitors must also complete the TDAC digital arrival card online within three days before arrival. Check the latest rules before you go.

How do I get from Bangkok airport to the centre?

From Suvarnabhumi, the Airport Rail Link reaches Phaya Thai station, in the centre, in about 30 minutes. Official taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.

How do I get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

By plane (about an hour's flight) or by night train, an experience travellers enjoy.

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