Longtail boat on turquoise water beside limestone cliffs in southern Thailand

Thailand travel guide

Thailand Holiday Packages from Australia

Thailand gives Australians the best value of any beach holiday within nine hours of home: temples and street food in Bangkok, mountains and markets in Chiang Mai, and islands in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf. This guide covers a proven route, realistic costs, entry rules for Australian passport holders and how to pick the right coast for your travel dates.

A classic 10-day Thailand itinerary

Bangkok, Chiang Mai and a southern beach finish, linked by short domestic flights. Runs as a private trip on any date or as an escorted group departure.

Days 1–3 · Bangkok

Grand Palace and Wat Pho, a longtail boat through the klongs, Chatuchak market and a rooftop dinner.

Day 4 · Ayutthaya day trip

Ancient capital temples and a river cruise back to the city.

Days 5–6 · Chiang Mai

Doi Suthep, an ethical elephant sanctuary, a Thai cooking class and the night bazaar.

Days 7–9 · Phuket or Krabi

Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi island cruising, or quiet beach days and a spa.

Day 10 · Departure

Transfer to Phuket or Krabi airport for your flight home.

More ideas on the Thailand destination page.

What this holiday costs

Return flights Sydney–Bangkok

From around $800 economy, $1,200 in peak seasons

10-day package (land only)

From $1,899 per person, twin share

Hotels, 4-star

Roughly $130–$260 per room per night; 5-star resorts from $350

Domestic flights within Thailand

Around $90–$160 per person per sector

Meals and daily spending

Allow $60–$110 per person per day

All figures are indicative guides in Australian dollars for planning only. Final pricing depends on your travel dates, airline, hotel category, group size, exchange rates and availability at the time of booking, and is confirmed in writing before you pay.

Best time to travel

November to February

The dry, cooler season and the best all-round window — also the busiest and priciest, especially over Christmas.

March to May

Hot season, with Songkran water festival in mid-April. Great beach value if you can handle the heat.

June to August

Monsoon on the Andaman side; the Gulf islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan stay drier and are the smart choice.

September to October

Wettest months in the south, lowest resort rates of the year and lush green in the north.

Seasonal dates shift each year with the weather; we track the forecasts and advise on departure dates before you commit.

Visa and entry tips

  • Australian passport holders travelling for tourism currently enter Thailand without a visa for short stays.
  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
  • You may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation on arrival.
  • Thailand has introduced an electronic arrival card for travellers; we confirm the current requirement and send the link before you depart.

Entry rules can change at short notice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate and with Smartraveller before you travel. We assist with documentation but cannot guarantee entry decisions.

Ready to plan your Thailand holiday?

Tell us your dates, travellers and whether you want islands, culture or both. Our Sydney consultants pick the right coast for your season and book resorts at contracted rates.