Whether youβre craving cultural deep dives, beach hammock bliss, or full moon madness, Thailand holidays deliver the lot. From the neon buzz of Bangkok to the turquoise bays of Phuket and Koh Samui, this Southeast Asian superstar promises a mix of adventure, flavour, and full-on relaxation
Destination Highlights
From glittering temples to ancient ruins, itβs culture overload in the best way possible.
White sands, turquoise waters, and that salty sea breeze... it's a yes from us!
Get your taste buds ready, Thai food is all about flavour - bold, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Plenty of things to do from markets to elephant sanctuaries and even Full Moon parties.
Fun Facts
π Fun Fact - Thailandβs known as the Land of Smiles, and itβs not just a saying β there are 13 different types of smiles used in daily life.
π¦ Tiny Mammal β The bumblebee bat, found in Thailand, is the worldβs smallest mammal, weighing just 2 grams - a tiny lil' thing, and a great, if niche, pub quiz fact.
π₯€ Red Bull Origin β Red Bull was inspired by a Thai energy drink called Krating Daeng - so we all have Thailand to thank for our midday boost.
Whenβs the Best Time to Visit Thailand?
Forget weather charts for a sec β this is about finding your perfect time to go. Because Thailand holidays arenβt one-size-fits-all, and what counts as βbestβ totally depends on what youβre after.
βοΈ For beach days and tan lines β November to April is your golden window on the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta). Expect postcard skies, turquoise seas, and serious sun-lounger envy.
π For parties and festivals β Plan for Aprilβs Songkran Festival, aka Thailandβs giant nationwide water fight, or hit Koh Phangan any time thereβs a Full Moon β trust us, youβll know.
π¨βπ©βπ§ For family adventures β Try December to February, when itβs cooler and perfect for exploring temples, elephant sanctuaries, and markets without the midday melt
β€οΈ For couples and chill seekers β Skip peak crowds with a May or October escape. The beaches are quieter, hotels cheaper, and sunsets just as swoon-worthy.
π For explorers and culture lovers β Head north to Chiang Mai from November onwards, when mountain air meets monk chants and lantern festivals light up the sky.
So whether youβre chasing sunshine, festivals, or full-blown zen mode, Thailandβs got a season (and a reason) with your name written all over it.
Getting around on your Thailand holidays 2025 / 2026
π Tuk-tuks - no Thailand holiday is complete without a ride in one. Theyβre fast, fun, and full of personality. Just agree on a price before you zoom off.
π Buses - great for longer routes between Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Youβll find everything from budget-friendly coaches to plush VIP rides.
π Trains - take the scenic route! Overnight sleepers between Bangkok and Chiang Mai are comfy, classic, and oh-so-Instagrammable.
π€ Boats - island hopping? Thailandβs long-tail boats and ferries are your best mates for getting between islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Koh Lanta.
βοΈ Thailand holidays top tips for first-timers in 2025 / 2026
Heading to Thailand for the first time? Oof, lucky you. Between the beaches, the food, and the absolute vibes, youβre in for a belter of a trip. But before you hop on that long-haul flight dreaming of mango sticky rice and poolside naps, hereβs some handy know-how to help you smash your Thailand holiday like a pro.
π§³ Pack light (and loose) - itβs warm. Like, really warm. And humid. Youβll want breathable clothes, comfy sandals, and at least one floaty fit that says βyes Iβm on holiday and yes Iβm thriving.β Just remember, temples are sacred spots β so pack something that covers your shoulders and knees too.
π Check the seasons - Thailandβs tropical, which means dry and rainy seasons rule the roost. The best time to visit? November to February β cooler, dryer, and all-round fab. If youβre planning an April trip, just know itβll be hot-hot-hot (but also Songkran season β aka the world's biggest water fight, so swings and roundabouts).
πΈ Baht it up - Thailandβs currency is the Thai baht (THB), and cash is still king, especially in markets and street stalls. Cardβs accepted in most hotels and bigger restaurants, but always keep some small notes handy for tuk-tuks and coconut shakes.
π Respect the culture (and the King) - youβll see photos of the King literally everywhere β and thatβs because the monarchy is super respected here. Always stand for the national anthem (yes, it plays before movies!), and never say anything negative about the royal family. Also, take your shoes off when entering temples or homes β and never point your feet at a Buddha statue. Feet = rude in Thailand.
π§ Stay hydrated, skip the tap - itβs a scorcher out there, so drink lots of water β but make sure itβs bottled. Tap water isnβt safe to drink, and brushing your teeth with bottled water isnβt a bad shout either. You can buy it everywhere, and itβs super cheap.
πΏ Mind the mozzies - tropical = mosquitoes, so bring repellent, especially if youβre heading to jungly or beachy areas. Most hotels spray, but better safe than scratching yourself silly mid-massage.
ποΈ Book big stuff in advance - temples, boat tours, sleeper trains and luxe hotels in the islands can book up fast, especially in peak season. If itβs on your bucket list, lock it in early and avoid the βshoulda, woulda, couldaβ regrets.
Whether youβre in it for temples, tuk-tuks, or top-tier pad Thai, Thailand is one of those places youβll definitely want to come back to. But letβs get that first trip absolutely nailed, shall we?
Want help picking your hotel or figuring out where to stay on your holidays to Thailand? Keep on scrolling ποΈβοΈ
Whereβs the best area to stay on your holidays to Thailand?
Thailandβs got something for everyone, whether youβre all about the party, the zen, or the family fun. Hereβs where to set up camp:
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Family holidays β For a whopper of a family jolly, Phuket is your go-to. All-inclusive, kiddo-friendly resorts, and waterparks galore - itβs a proper playground. Pattaya is another top shout if you want something close to Bangkok, and Koh Samuiβs got those chill family vibes down.
π₯³ Squad goals β Koh Phanganβs Full Moon Party is the stuff of legends, but if glow paint and raving all night isnβt your thing, Bangkok and Pattaya have plenty of nightlife too. Think rooftop bars, swanky clubs, and street food to soak it all up after.
β€οΈ Coupling up β Koh Lanta is a dreamy little slice of paradise, perfect for beach strolls and candlelit dinners. If youβre after a bit more action, Krabi offers jaw-dropping limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and activities you can totally one-up each other over.
π§ Zen mode β Chiang Mai is your haven if youβre after temples, wellness retreats, and lush green vibes. Or head south to Koh Yao Noi for secluded beaches and that sweet, sweet tranquillity
The best beaches to hit up on your Thailand holidays 2025 / 2026
Now, let's talk beaches, baby - because no matter when you're jetting off (even if you're browsing our last-minute holidays, or looking to jet off during the kids' easter holidays) the beaches here are always up for a good time. Thailand's shoreline is, quite frankly, a stunner. Picture this: pristine white sands, sapphire blue waters, and swaying palm trees. Doesn't that sound like a dream? And there are so many to choose from!
Railay Beach, Krabi - Accessible only by boat, Railay delivers jaw-dropping beauty with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands - Made famous by the movie "The Beach," Maya Bay is the definition of a tropical paradise. Although it gets busy, the stunning beauty of this bay makes braving the crowds totally worth it. Note: It's been closed off and on for restoration, so check itβs open before you plan your visit!
White Sand Beach, Koh Chang - As the name suggests, expect mahoosive stretches of white sand fringed with coconut palms. This beach is a bit more chilled out, making it ideal for those who want to escape the more crowded tourist spots.
Patong Beach, Phuket - If youβre up for some fun in the sun with a side of buzzing nightlife, Patong is the place. Itβs always lively and packed with tourists, offering plenty of water sports, bars, and restaurants.
Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui - Known for its soft, white sand and clear waters, Chaweng is the party hub of Koh Samui. By day, it's all about chill vibes and water activities; by night, the beachfront clubs and bars make it a party hotspot.
Sunrise Beach, Koh Lipe - the clues in the name folks, the sunset views at this sandy paradise are to die for. We're thinking a romantic stroll with your SO, or maybe you'd rather stop off in the day for a snorkel above the coral reefs in the calm waters before letting the setting sun dry you off after - now that's our vision of a perfect day.
Our top hotels for your holidays to Thailand!
Thailand hotels offer a gorge selection of bases to set up shop, ranging from ultra-luxurious all-inclusives to budget-friendly cheap holidays, suitable for every type of traveller, even those of you looking ahead to your 2026 holidays. Whether you're after for a swanky spot in the bustling city or a serene beach retreat, Thailand has it all. Hereβs a rundown of some of the best hotels that offer top-tier places to rest your head and much, much more:
Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa - A proper jam-packed activity schedule combined with a choice of pools and a short stroll to the beach? Yes, please.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort - Five-star Beachside. Largest infinity pool in Phuket. Now that's what we call a hotel! And don't get us started on the food...
Seaview Patong - Sea views for days! This beachfront hotel is ideal for a proper laid-back holiday. Pool bar and beach bar included, too.
Andaman Seaview - If you stay at this hotel, you're going to be living the life. But if you wanna take it up a notch, grab yourself a swim-up room and live it more.
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort - a five-star that's got your name written all over it, from the delish restaurants to the six super-swanky pools and lush on-site spa, you'll be living your best, boujee life faster than you can say Pad Thai.
Vijitt Resort Phuket - This hotel oozes Thai charm. It's beautifully designed and is set in a location with rich history making it even better.
Barcelo Coconut Island - a unique five-star island paradise with complimentary water taxi service to get you there - not to mention beachfront villas, tonnes of dining options, spa facilities, water sports at the beach and a kids club for the little ones, a family holiday done right.
Thailand holidays travel guide
π©ββ€οΈβπ¨ Things to do in Thailand for couples
Couples' holidays and Thailand go hand-in-hand. Take sunset strolls on Koh Lantaβs beaches, share a rooftop cocktail over Bangkokβs skyline, or unwind with a couplesβ massage at a beachfront spa. Want a wow moment? Try a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, watching the temples glow under the stars.
πͺ Things to do in Thailand for families
From Chiang Maiβs Elephant Nature Park to Phuketβs splash-tastic waterparks, families are spoilt for choice. Explore floating markets, meet wildlife, or just kick back on soft sands while the kids go wild in the waves.
ποΈ Things to do in Thailand for thrill-seekers
Adventure, nightlife, and unforgettable stories β thatβs what group holidays to Thailand are all about. Go zip-lining in Chiang Mai, rock climbing in Krabi, or diving in the Similan Islands. When the sun sets, the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan takes things up a notch (or ten).
π³ Things to do in Thailand for Nature Lovers
Thailandβs natural beauty is next-level. Wander through Khao Sok National Park, kayak across Cheow Lan Lake, or chase waterfalls in the northern hills. The Red Lotus Sea in Udon Thani is a once-in-a-lifetime sight, while diving the Similan Islands reveals a world of coral and colour.
More places to visit on your Thailand holidays 2025 / 2026:
Popular Thailand hotels
More Thailand hotelsStunning Thailand resorts
Weather in Thailand
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Thailand doesnβt do boring when it comes to weather β this place brings the heat and the drama. Weβre talking year-round warmth, with tropical temps that generally sit between 25Β°C and 35Β°C.
Down south β where the beaches are calling β the climate stays toasty all year long. Even when the skies get a bit moody, the seaβs still like a warm bath.
But hereβs the tea β Thailandβs got a tropical monsoon vibe, which means May to October can bring the odd dramatic downpour. Donβt panic though β these rain showers usually show up fast, throw a bit of a tantrum, then clear off and leave behind dreamy green scenery and cooler, fresher air. Umbrella in one hand, cocktail in the other β it's still a vibe.
The real sweet spot? Thatβd be November to February β aka the cool season. Think blue skies, gentle sunshine, and that perfect βletβs go explore a waterfall without sweating through our shortsβ weather. Itβs also the most popular time to visit, so expect great beach days and al fresco everything.
Long story short β Thailandβs weather is reliably warm, often sunny, and always holiday-ready. Whether you're dancing through a tropical shower or basking in dry-season sunshine, itβs all part of the adventure.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Thailand?
How long does it take to fly to Thailand?
It takes about 11-12 hours to fly to Thailand direct from the UK/Ireland.
Whatβs the time difference between the UK and Thailand?
Whatβs the time difference between the UK and Thailand?
Thailand is seven hours ahead of the time in the UK.
What currency do they use in Thailand?
What currency do they use in Thailand?
The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht.
What language to they speak in Thailand?
What language to they speak in Thailand?
The official language spoken in Thailand is Thai.