Thailand vs Indonesia | Which is better for a dreamy vacation in South-East Asia?

We have travelled extensively for over 8 months through South East Asia, exploring Indonesia over two months and Thailand multiple times. Today we are comparing Thailand vs Indonesia to give you our best suggestions to make your trip memorable.

Of course, we understand that when planning a trip to Southeast Asia, it can be overwhelming to decide between two unique countries, Indonesia and Thailand. However, both exotic destinations offer their remarkable charm, appeal, and experiences that apply to different kinds of travellers.

This comprehensive guide aims to help you compare and contrast Indonesia and Thailand across several categories, including beaches and landscapes, culture, food, transportation, and affordability, and make an informed decision about which country to visit. Let’s dive into the Indonesia or Thailand comparison.

Best time to visit Indonesia

The best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is dry and sunny, making it an excellent time to explore the country’s beaches and natural attractions. However, you should consider that Indonesia is also a tropical country with a warm and humid climate throughout the year. Therefore, even though it is low season, you might experience wonderful weather.

We mainly explored Indonesia from February through April, so during the low season. The weather was pleasant, and we got less than 10 days of rain over the course of 60 days overall. However, just so you know, the rainy season in Indonesia starts in November and lasts until March.

One of the aspects we might talk more about later is that Indonesia’s infrastructure is affected more than Thailand’s when it rains a lot. It is frequent to have flooding in Bali, with roads completely covered by water.

What are the visa requirements for Indonesia and Thailand?

Visa requirements for Indonesia and Thailand vary depending on your nationality, length of stay, and purpose of travel.

For Indonesia, travellers from some countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, can enter the country visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, a visa is required for longer stays or other purposes of travel. Visa requirements and application processes vary depending on the type of visa and country of origin, and it’s recommended to check with the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

For Thailand, travellers from many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, can enter the country visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. For longer stays or other purposes of travel, a visa is required. Visa requirements and application processes vary depending on the type of visa and country of origin, and it’s recommended to check with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Thailand has recently introduced a new Digital Nomad visa, and you can get more info here. Instead, Indonesia is late to the party, with no options for digital nomads. Instead, while exploring Bali, we have seen an increase in deportation because people performed paid work while on a tourist visa.

Unique Places to Visit in Thailand

Thailand is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Some of the unique places to visit include Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Chiang Mai, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, and the stunning islands of Phuket and Koh Samui. The country is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, night markets, and traditional Thai massages.

10 Unmissable Places to Visit in Thailand

Bangkok | On top of our list is Bangkok. Odi et amo with this city, as it is chaotic, too wide and disorganised. But Bangkok is, for us, the centre of South East Asia, and you will love its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and delicious street food. Check our guide to Bangkok vs Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai | We are in love with Chiang Mai. Still to date is our favourite Digital Nomads Hub in the region. The city is in Northern Thailand and is known for its historic temples, cultural festivals, and traditional handicrafts. READ OUR CHIANG MAI TRAVEL GUIDE.

Phuket | Phuket is a large island in Southern Thailand that is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. READ PHUKET 3 DAYS ITINERARY

Ayutthaya | You will find ancient temples, historical ruins, part of Thai history and regal Palaces. Ayutthaya is very close to Bangkok, and you can make it even on a day trip from the capital.

Sukhothai | Still in Northern Thailand, there are Sukhothaiis. The city is known for its impressive temples and historical ruins.

Krabi | Together with Phuket and Koh Lanta, you will discover some of the best beaches in Southern Thailand. Krabi is the famous spot nearby James Bond Island, and here you can enjoy the landscape of the stunning limestone cliffs, of course, the beaches, and coral reefs.

Koh Samui | In our opinion, Koh Samui is too touristy but still worth visiting. The island is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its picturesque beaches, coconut groves, and luxury resorts.

Pai | Just 3 hours away from Chiang Mai, there is the little town of Pai. This small community is the hippy soul of Thailand, and you will travel here to find a unique laid-back atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and outdoor activities like hiking and rafting. We mostly compare Pai to Ubud in Bali. READ OUR FULL GUIDES TO PAI.

Kanchanaburi | Kanchanaburi is a province located west of Bangkok that is known for its World War II history, including the famous Bridge over the River Kwai.

Chiang Rai | At a short distance from Chiang Mai, there is Chiang Rai. As you can see, Northern Thailand is full of surprises, and in Chiang Rai, you will find unique temples (White Temple and Blue Temple on top) but also natural attractions like waterfalls and hot springs. READ OUR CHIANG RAI VS CHIANG MAI.

Unique places to explore in Indonesia

Indonesia is an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, offering a wide range of unique experiences for travellers. Some of the must-visit places include Bali, with its stunning beaches and temples; Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java; and the Komodo National Park, home to the famous Komodo dragons.

The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine, diverse wildlife, and ancient temples.

10 Unmissable places to consider visit in Indonesia

Bali | The most popular place in Indonesia is Bali. The island is home to unique spots like Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Nusa Penida and more. It is often referred to as the Digital Nomads hub of southern Asia. READ OUR GUIDE TO BALI.

Jakarta | Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and vibrant street markets.

Yogyakarta | The city in Java that is famous for its ancient temples, including the UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan temples.

Komodo Island | Here, you will find the famous Komodo dragons, the most giant lizards in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Raja Ampat Islands | A group of islands located in the eastern part of Indonesia. It is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving.

Mount Bromo | This is one of the most suggestive destinations in our comparison of Indonesia vs Thailand. Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in East Java. It is a popular spot for hiking and offers stunning sunrise views over the surrounding landscapes. If you are an adventure seeker, you must take advantage of this spot.

Lombok | Off the coast east of Bali, there is Lombok. Defined the Bali of 20 years ago, features a still pristine atmosphere, better beaches than Bali, unique hiking trails, and differs a lot in culture and traditions compared to Bali.

Gili Islands | Within Lombok, you can’t miss exploring the Gili Islands. The group of three islands located off the coast of Lombok are a paradise for divers. You must know that on Gili T, the bigger island, no engine is allowed to preserve the environment, and life is more laid back and calm.

Ubud | The spiritual hub of Bali is Ubud. If you don’t like the bustle of Canggu, you go to Ubud in the central part of Bali. The atmosphere is quiet, and you can walk around the narrow alleys or take a day trip. The little city is surrounded by rice terraces and little villages.

Uluwatu | Becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to the chaos of Canggu. Uluwatu is the ultimate surfer’s retreat in Bali. The area is primarily on hills and cliffs, overlooking the ocean, with fantastic beaches and perfect waves.

How to get to Indonesia and Thailand

Thailand and Indonesia are both easily accessible by air, with several international airports serving major cities in both countries. Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport are the main gateways for Thailand and Indonesia, respectively.

In addition, many airlines offer direct flights to both countries from major cities around the world.

Compare prices and availability of flights:

Best airports in Thailand

As said in Thailand, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport is the country’s main international airport, with several airlines offering direct flights to major cities worldwide. However, internal and international flights can take you to Phuket International Airport and Chiang Mai International Airport.

There is a route from Bali Airport to Chiang Mai, with a ticket as low as $30. This is one of the preferred routes for Visa run for digital nomads.

Best Airports in Indonesia

In Indonesia, Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the main gateway for international travellers, with several airlines offering direct flights to major cities worldwide. Other airports, such as Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport and Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport, also serve international and domestic routes.

We flew to Bali from Krabi airport and flew out to Vietnam, and the fees for both flights were less than 50$ each, including the checked baggage.

Indonesia vs Thailand | Our Comparison

Thailand vs Indonesia for traditions, culture and people

Both Indonesia and Thailand have rich cultures and traditions that are worth exploring. Indonesia is a diverse country with over 17,000 islands and hundreds of ethnic groups, each with its unique customs and traditions. The country is known for its beautiful Batik fabrics, traditional dances, and delicious cuisine.

Conversely, Thailand is famous for its Buddhist temples, street food, and Muay Thai boxing. Thai people are known for their hospitality and friendliness and take great pride in their culture and traditions.

As you can see, both Indonesia and Thailand have rich cultures and traditions that tourists can immerse themselves in. Getting deeper and giving you some specific information: Thailand’s cultural heritage is evident in its plethora of temples, and the Northern regions offer a unique and laid-back vibe compared to the bustling Bangkok. The famous Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai offer a serene cultural experience. In contrast, Indonesia’s cultural attractions do not compare to Thailand’s.

Indonesia and Thailand comparison about the tourist attractions

We had a blast in both countries. However, these are entirely different from each other. We visited the best beaches in Thailand but were not quite impressed by Indonesia’s beaches, apart from a few well-known ones.

But one thing that might surprise me more than others is the diversity in wildlife and marine life that Indonesia boosts popular tourist destinations, including Bali, Yogyakarta, and Komodo Island. Thailand, on the other hand, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and bustling cities. Popular tourist destinations include Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

Activities and tours | Indonesia vs Thailand: which one is the best?

Well, we had a blast in both countries. Even though we must be honest, we experienced more diversity in Thailand compared to Indonesia, where we travelled only south. Both exotic destinations offer sightseers a wide range of activities and tours, making it difficult to determine which country is best.

In Indonesia, visitors can explore ancient temples, hike active volcanoes, and relax on beautiful beaches. In Thailand, travellers can visit cultural landmarks like temples and palaces, explore bustling markets, and indulge in world-renowned cuisine.

In addition, both countries offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkelling, and diving. Ultimately, the best activities and tours for you will depend on your interests and preferences.

Best activities in Indonesia

Visit the ancient temples of Java | Java is home to some of the most stunning temples in Southeast Asia, including the UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan temples. These ancient temples offer a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich cultural history.

Snorkelling with manta rays in Nusa Penida | An unforgettable experience that offers a unique opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close and swim alongside them in their natural habitat. BOOK YOUR SNORKELLING IN NUSA PENIDA.

Watch the sunrise at Mount Batur| Mount Batur is an active volcano in Bali, and one of the best hikes on the island of gods. In the morning you can enjoy a fantastic sunrise over the lake, the thick forest and mountains. You can hike to the top of the volcano or take a jeep tour to witness the sunrise over the surrounding landscapes. The photo above is that morning, and is one of the best highlights of our Bali itinerary. CHECK THE TOUR.

Explore Bali’s rice terraces | Bali is known for its beautiful rice terraces, which offer a glimpse into traditional Balinese agriculture. Visitors can hike or bike through the terraces and enjoy the stunning views. CHECK THIS TOUR OF BALI RICEFIELDS AND MONKEY FOREST IN UBUD.

Attend a traditional dance performance | Indonesia is known for its traditional dance performances, which showcase its rich cultural heritage. Popular dance forms include Balinese Legong and Javanese Wayang Wong. These performances are usually accompanied by live gamelan music and make for a memorable cultural experience.

Best tours and activities in Thailand

Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok | The Grand Palace is a must-see attraction in Bangkok and is home to the iconic Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The palace features beautiful architecture, intricate details, and stunning Thai art.

Explore the night markets | Thailand’s night markets are a feast for the senses, offering delicious street food, vibrant entertainment, and unique shopping opportunities. READ OUR GUIDE ABOUT THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHIANG MAI.

Take a cooking class | Thailand is famous for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is an excellent way to learn about the country’s traditional dishes and cooking techniques. CHECK OUT THIS COOKING CLASS IN CHIANG MAI.

Go island hopping | Thailand is home to some of the world’s most beautiful islands, including Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi. Island hopping is an excellent way to explore the country’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique landscapes. LOOKING FOR ISLAND HOPPING TOURS IN PHUKET. WE SUGGEST THIS.

Attend a full moon party | The full moon party on Koh Phangan is a legendary event in Thailand, attracting thousands of people from around the world every month. The party features music, dancing, and plenty of drinking and is a must-see for partygoers.

Best Beaches in Indonesia

Gili Trawangan | Gili Trawangan is a small island located off the coast of Lombok and is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Nusa Dua | Nusa Dua is a luxury resort area located on the island of Bali. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Indonesia, including Geger Beach and Mengiat Beach. However, it is one of the most expensive areas in Bali.

Kuta Beach | We live a very short distance from Kuta Beach, which is better than Canggu and Seminyak beaches.

Pink Beach | This is the most instagrammable place in Indonesia. On Komodo Island is that beach with pinkish sand and a stunning coral reef. The best way to discover this part of Indonesia is to go on a sailing tour and discover the natural landscape. CHECK THIS SAILING TOUR IN INDONESIA OR SOME SUGGESTIONS THROUGH OUR CRUISING IN INDONESIA POST.

Senggigi Beach | The island of Lombok is full of surprises and often is underrated compared to Bali. Senggigi Beach is a beautiful white sand beach surrounded by lush green hills and clear blue waters.

Comparing Thai food with Indonesian food

Thai food is considered the best in Southeast Asia, and it is hard to argue with that. From street food to Michelin-star restaurants, Thai cuisine has something for everyone. The food is fresh, flavourful, and well-presented. Green curry, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum Goong are some of the most popular dishes globally.

In contrast, Indonesian cuisine is unique and diverse, influenced by the different ethnic groups and regional specialities. Sumatra’s Padang cuisine and Sulawesi’s Manado cuisine are unique culinary experiences to try out. Although the food in Indonesia is less popular than Thai cuisine, it is equally delicious and worth a try. However, our personal opinion about that is Thai food wins all the way. After over 2 months missing from Thailand, we were craving a good Pad Thai.

Budgeting for Indonesia and Thailand

We must write about affordability and budgeting within our fair comparison of Thailand vs Indonesia. While deciding which location you must consider for your next holiday abroad, budgeting is a very concerning part. However, Thailand and Indonesia are mainly on the same level, apart from Bali, which has seen an increase in prices that puts many people away from this location.

Both Indonesia and Thailand offer a range of budget options for travellers, from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts. However, Indonesia is generally considered more affordable than Thailand, with lower accommodation, food, and transportation prices.

In Thailand, prices can vary widely depending on the destination, with cities like Bangkok and Phuket being more expensive than other parts of the country. So let’s go deeper into this comparison and give you some highlights on which is better moneywise, Indonesia or Thailand.

How much will you spend in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can expect to spend around $30-40 per day on a budget, while mid-range travellers can expect to spend around $50-80 per day. If you are looking for a luxury retreat in Indonesia, you must account for spending upwards of $150 per day.

We will reiterate the message, these prices are not referred to Bali, which you must account for 20% to 50%. If you are still looking for the perfect honeymoon in Bali but at a fraction of the price, go to Nusa Lembongan, which is more secluded and quiet, with excellent features and activities but less pricey.

However, the best cost-effective place to spend an average holiday in Indonesia is in Lombok and Gili Islands.

How much will you spend in Thailand?

Thailand can be extremely expensive or extremely cheap. A general rule is to budget around $40 to $50 daily. This is the typical spend for a Digital Nomad here, but we were able to spend the same amount as a couple staying in Chiang Mai.

If you are looking for mid-range hotels over just homestays, you must expect to spend around $70-100 per day. Luxury holidays in Thailand are very affordable compared to the Western world. With high-class hotels costing about $100 per day, you will have 5-star hospitality at a fraction of the price that you will have in London, New York and Paris. Of course, this varies widely depending on the destination, with cities like Bangkok and Phuket being more expensive than other parts of the country.

Affordability Thailand vs Indonesia

Both, Indonesia and Thailand are affordable countries to travel to, and tourists can get by on a tight budget. However, Thailand is cheaper than Indonesia regarding accommodation, transportation, and food. On the other hand, Indonesia’s remote locations and vast natural attractions can be expensive to explore. Like always there are pros and cons on our sentence, as the popular places tend to be expensive, while less known make the difference way down budgeting your trip.

Bali, which is the most popular destination in Indonesia, has become increasingly expensive over the years. This is alright; however, check out if Bali is still worth visiting. In fact, with prices increasing in Bali, tourists are discovering other parts of the country and some remote locations.

Accommodations in Thailand vs Indonesia

Both Thailand and Indonesia offer a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. In Thailand, you can find affordable accommodations such as guesthouses and hostels for as little as $10-15 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $50-100 per night. Luxury resorts can cost upwards of $200 per night.

In Indonesia, you can find affordable accommodations such as guesthouses and homestays for as little as $5-10 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $20-50 per night. Luxury resorts can cost upwards of $150 per night. Bali is generally more expensive than other parts of Indonesia, with higher prices for accommodations.

Indonesia vs Thailand | Best place for a honeymoon

This part of our comparison of Thailand vs Indonesia is focused on you, which is organising a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon in Asia. The difficulty of deciding is more regarding what you are looking for. If you are looking for the best beach retreat, Phuket is an ideal place to spend your honeymoon.

After the beach day, you will have plenty of activities, from night markets to clubs and bars open until late. If you want a quieter atmosphere but still hit the beaches and go on tours and snorkelling activities, you must go to Bali. The accommodations in Bali are for honeymooners. CHECK OUR GUIDE TO BALI LUXURIOUS BUT CHEAP VILLAS.

Fantastic and for lifetime memories, thinking about a floating breakfast, a private pool, and a jacuzzi with a glass of champagne in your hands. We had such of that (even though it wasn’t our honeymoon) in Northern Bali, at Munduk. The photo above is that experience that is one of the best memories of our trip to Asia. The resort is less expensive than you think. Check the rates.

Indonesia and Thailand for Digital Nomads, which is better?

Both Indonesia and Thailand are popular destinations for digital nomads, offering a range of coworking spaces, affordable accommodations, and reliable internet connections. Thailand is generally considered to be more developed in terms of digital infrastructure, with a broader range of coworking spaces and better internet speeds.

However, Indonesia is rapidly developing its digital infrastructure and has a growing community of digital nomads.

Availability of Coworking spaces

Bali and Chiang Mai are two popular destinations for digital nomads and remote workers seeking coworking spaces. Bali has a vibrant coworking scene with many spaces available in popular areas such as Canggu and Ubud.

Chiang Mai also has a thriving community of remote workers, with a range of coworking spaces spread throughout the city. Both destinations offer a relaxed atmosphere, affordable living costs, and opportunities to connect with other like-minded professionals. However, Bali tends to have a more touristy feel, while Chiang Mai is known for its cultural heritage and outdoor activities.

Internet connectivity

Thailand has slightly better internet speeds and coverage compared to Indonesia, but both countries still face challenges in providing reliable and affordable internet access in remote areas.

In terms of internet connectivity, both Indonesia and Thailand have made significant progress in recent years. While 5G technology is still being developed in both countries, 4G coverage is widely available in urban areas.

Thailand vs Indonesia’s final thoughts

In conclusion, we love both countries for different reasons. We want to go back to both, and if Thailand appeals to us more for food and beaches, Indonesia for sure is for the natural landscape and remote islands. 

If it is your first time in South East Asia, we know that it is difficult to choose, and we will suggest you avoiding to jump from one side to another if you only have two weeks. It is not worth it. Better to spend at least two weeks in Phuket and two weeks in Bali to fully understand the way of life of the two countries.

We hope this honest and open comparison has helped you make an informed decision and enjoy your travels to the fullest.

Personal recommendation when choosing between Indonesia and Thailand

We wrote extensive guides about both Thailand and Indonesia. We described our vision of the countries from a Digital Nomads’ point of view. We must say that you should visit both, as they are different, completely different.

These are some guides that might help you to make the right choice:

CHIANG MAI VS BANGKOK | The ultimate decision is on you, but is worth knowing what are the pros and cons on visiting both, Chiang Mai and Bangkok. READ OUR GUIDE.

IS BALI WORTH VISITING? | We spent over two months exploring Bali and surrounding area, and now we know a few things about Bali that might interesting for you. READ OUR GUIDE.

How long should you spend in Indonesia vs Thailand?

The short answer is as much as you can. Depending on the activities you want to do, you must tailor your itinerary. We wrote an extensive itinerary of Pukhet in 3 days, highlighting the best things to do, and we think this is the correct amount of time. Also, most of the trips to Thailand start in Bangkok, and you can spend in the capital anything between one to three days in Bangkok.

Of course, as more destinations you include in the itinerary, the more time you need. Also, consider that Thailand and Indonesia are very extended, with long distances. While travelling through the countries, we often choose to travel during the night by bus and sleeper trains to save money and journey time.

Overall, we can say that you can spend a week or two in Thailand exploring the cities and beaches. Longer trips of three to four weeks can allow you to also include the North to dive into the local culture.

In Indonesia, a one or two-week trip can allow you to explore the highlights of Bali or Java, while longer trips of three to four weeks can allow you to visit other parts of the country, such as Sumatra or Sulawesi. A two weeks itinerary also should consider Bali, Lombok and a sailing cruise to Komodo Island.

Q&A Thailand or Indonesia