Thailand Itineraries

The following itineraries cover Thailand in all its diversity, from running the rapids in the northern mountains to beach-bumming your way through the Andaman archipelagos. Whether you want to feel the buzz of adventure in the great outdoors, feast on the never-ending variety of Thai cuisine, or find the nearest thing to a desert island paradise, these will point the way.

Recommended Thailand Itinerary from Jana: Thailand Travel Expert

Arrive in Bangkok; transfer to the hotel and check-in. I recommend walking down Khao San Road, where you can sample Thai street food and soak in the hustle.

Head to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew the following day. During the afternoon, you'll visit Wat Pho and take a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River. For dinner, eat at one of the restaurants by the river and then explore the great flower market near Wat Pho.

On the third day, you should head for Ayutthaya; make it a one-day trip to visit the historic ruins and temples. I'd recommend renting a bike for part of the city tour. On the fourth day, take a flight to Chiang Mai. Around the afternoon wander in the old city and at night visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Day five—be out and take in the beauty of Chiang Mai. Off to Doi Suthep for a view that is to die for, followed by an ethical elephant sanctuary visit. Ethical elephant sanctuaries with priority given to visiting hours should be ensured. On the sixth day, enjoy a cooking course and learn about Thai cuisine. Take part in a local arts and crafts village visit.

After the overnight stay in Chiang Mai, board a flight on the seventh day to Phuket; on arrival, visit the beaches and Patong Beach in the evening. The next day, you will board a boat to the Phi Phi Islands, where it is possible to both snorkel in the waters and sprawl around on the beach. Don't forget your camera; the landscapes are stunning! 

Day nine is much easier in Phuket. Visit the Big Buddha, take part in water activities, and have a traditional Thai massage. 

On the final day of the program, enjoy that last taste of a Thai adventure before departing for the airport and your flight home.

7-day Thailand itinerary

If you have a week in Thailand, you can experience a mix of vibrant city life, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty.

• Day 1: Begin your journey in Bangkok. I suggest starting with a stroll along Khao San Road to sample Thai street food and soak up the bustling atmosphere.
• Day 2: Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in the morning. In the afternoon, explore Wat Pho and enjoy a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. End the day with dinner at a riverside restaurant and a visit to the evening flower market near Wat Pho.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Ayutthaya to explore historic ruins and temples. Rent a bicycle for a unique city tour. Return to Bangkok in the evening.
• Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai. Spend the afternoon exploring the old city, filled with temples, markets, and charming cafes. Visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar in the evening for a taste of local life and cuisine.
• Day 5: Visit Doi Suthep for stunning views over the city. In the afternoon, spend time at an ethical elephant sanctuary. Be sure to choose a sanctuary that prioritizes elephant welfare.
• Day 6: Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine from local chefs. In the afternoon, explore the arts and crafts scene in the surrounding villages, where you can meet local artisans and purchase some souvenirs.
• Day 7: Fly to Phuket in the morning. Relax on the beautiful beaches and visit Patong Beach in the evening for lively nightlife and entertainment before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

10-day Thailand itinerary

If you have 10 days in Thailand, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant mix of city life, cultural experiences, nature and a serene island vacation.

• Day 1: Upon arrival in Bangkok, visit the vibrant Bang Rak District for a food tour, tasting traditional Thai dishes and discovering old shophouses with stories to tell. End your day with a visit to a rooftop bar, like Above Eleven, for a stunning view of the city.
• Day 2: Take a long-tail boat tour of Bangkok’s hidden klongs (canals) to see traditional wooden houses, temples, and floating vendors. Afterward, visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) for its iconic riverside views and climb to the top for panoramic cityscapes.
• Day 3: Head north to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival, visit the unique and stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the whimsical Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten).
• Day 4: Take a day trip to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Visit the Opium Museum to learn about the region’s history.
• Day 5: Chiang Mai's natural beauty: Visit Doi Suthep for stunning views over the city. In the afternoon, spend time at an ethical elephant sanctuary. Choose a sanctuary that prioritizes elephant welfare for a responsible experience.
• Day 6: Fly to Chiang Mai and spend your afternoon visiting the temples of the old city, such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khantoke Dinner while watching local dance performances.
• Day 7: Take a day trip to Chiang Dao, known for its limestone caves and natural hot springs. Explore the Chiang Dao Cave and hike in the nearby Pha Daeng National Park.
• Day 8: Rent a car or take a van to Pai, a small mountain town known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty. Along the way, stop at Mok Fa Waterfall for a refreshing break.
• Day 9: Visit Pai Canyon for a light hike with beautiful views. Head to the Tham Lod Cave, a massive limestone cave you can explore by bamboo raft. Don’t miss the swarms of birds flying into the cave at sunset.
• Day 10: Fly to Phuket for a relaxing last day at the beach. Spend the afternoon at Nai Harn Beach, a quieter, pristine spot perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

14-day Thailand itinerary

Explore the best of Thailand over 14 days, including vibrant city life, historical sites, stunning national parks, and beautiful islands.

• Day 1: Begin your journey in Bangkok. Transfer to your hotel and settle in. I suggest starting with a stroll along Khao San Road to sample Thai street food and soak in the bustling atmosphere.
• Day 2: Spend the day exploring Bangkok’s highlights, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho, and taking a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. Experience the local culture and cuisine, ending with dinner at a riverside restaurant and a visit to the evening flower market near Wat Pho.
• Day 3: Travel to Kanchanaburi to visit the Bridge over the River Kwai. Explore the War Museum and take a scenic train ride along the Death Railway.
• Day 4: Spend an extra day exploring the River Kwai area. Visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial, take a boat ride on the Kwai River, and explore more of the historical sites.
• Day 5: Visit Erawan National Park to see the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls. Enjoy hiking and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
• Day 6: Fly to Surat Thani and transfer to Khao Sok National Park. Settle into your accommodation, whether it’s a jungle lodge or a floating raft house on Cheow Lan Lake.
• Day 7: Explore the stunning landscapes of Khao Sok. Go on a jungle trek, enjoy a boat tour of Cheow Lan Lake, and spot wildlife. Relax in the serene natural surroundings.
• Day 8: Travel to Krabi, a province known for its limestone cliffs and beautiful beaches. Settle into your hotel and relax.
• Day 9: Take a day trip to Railay Beach, famous for its stunning scenery and rock climbing opportunities. Relax on the beach and explore the caves and lagoons.
• Day 10: Travel to Koh Lanta, a beautiful island known for its laid-back atmosphere. Settle into your beachfront accommodation and unwind.
• Days 11 to 13: Explore Koh Lanta’s beaches, visit the Lanta Old Town, and enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving. Experience the island’s relaxed vibe and friendly locals.
• Day 14: Travel back to Bangkok for your final day. Do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

How to plan your Thailand travel itinerary

There are a few key steps in the planning of your Thailand travel itinerary that will ensure you have an unforgettable adventure. First, decide how long you want to stay: Thailand offers a wealth of experiences whether you have 5 days or 3 weeks. Think about what interests you most: temples, beaches, food, or culture.

Choose regions according to these interests. For short trips, focus on one area, but for longer trips, explore different places: the bustling streets of Bangkok, the tranquil beaches of Phuket, and the cultural richness of Chiang Mai.

Pay attention to weather conditions: the cool season (November through February) is ideal for most activities, while the hot season (March through June) is perfect for visiting the beaches. The rainy season (July through October) is less crowded and has lush scenery. Book accommodation and excursions in advance, especially during peak seasons, to maximize your experience.

How many days do you need in Thailand?

The number of days you need to travel to Thailand depends largely on your interests and the pace at which you want to travel. A short trip of 5-7 days is ideal for exploring a specific region, such as Bangkok or Phuket, allowing you to combine relaxation and adventure without rushing.

If you can spare 10-14 days, you'll have the opportunity to experience more diverse attractions, from bustling cities and ancient temples to stunning beaches and vibrant night markets, covering several distinct areas of the country.

If you’d like to take a deep dive into everything Thailand has to offer, including lesser-known sites and local culture, consider extending your stay to three weeks. Such a timeframe is great for thoroughly exploring both popular attractions and hidden gems, creating a rich and fulfilling travel experience.

Rough Guides tips: As you plan your trip to Bangkok, make sure to choose the ideal place to stay in the city.

Getting around during your Thailand trip

Traveling in Thailand offers many convenient options to suit your preferences and budget:

• Bus travel: Buses are an economical and reliable mode of transportation, ideal if you are traveling on a tight budget. Thailand's bus network connects most cities and tourist spots, although it may not be the fastest way to reach remote locations.
• Domestic flights: For fast and efficient long-distance travel, domestic flights can be a great choice. Thai Airways provides regular flights between major centers, allowing you to cover more distance in less time.
• Train travel: Trains offer leisurely and scenic journeys, especially when it comes to long-distance travel. The rail network in Thailand connects major destinations, and there are both day and night trains, providing a comfortable and scenic way to travel.
• Cabs: In cities and popular tourist areas, cabs and ride-hailing services such as Grab are convenient for short distances. Make sure you use licensed cabs and negotiate the fare in advance, or make sure a meter is used to avoid misunderstandings.
• Tuk-tuks and motorcycle cabs: Tuk-tuks and motorcycle cabs are widely available for short trips and local sightseeing. These iconic modes of transportation are ideal for getting around the city, but always negotiate the fare before starting your trip.

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand depends on what you are looking for in your trip.

• The cool season is from November to February: This is the peak tourist season in Thailand due to the pleasant temperatures and low humidity. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for exploring cities, visiting temples, and outdoor activities. However, it is also the most popular and expensive time to visit.
• Hot season - March through May: If you can tolerate the heat, this season has its advantages, such as fewer tourists and lower prices. Note that the weather can be quite hot, especially in central and northern parts of Thailand, but it's a great time for beach vacations and water activities.
• Rainy season - June to October: The rainy season, or monsoon season, brings regular rains that are sometimes heavy. If you don't mind the rain, this period offers lush scenery, low prices, and fewer people. The rains are often short and heavy, usually in the afternoon or evening, leaving ample time for sightseeing.
• Shoulder seasons: Traveling during shoulder seasons (November through late February) can be a great way to enjoy good weather and avoid peak-season crowds. During these periods, you can strike a balance between lower prices and pleasant weather conditions.

Do you need a visa to Thailand?

For travelers from the UK and the US, a visa is generally not required for short stays in Thailand.

• UK travelers: UK citizens can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days if arriving by air, or 15 days if arriving by land. They must bring a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a confirmed return or direct ticket.
• US travelers: US citizens may enter Thailand without a visa for tourist purposes for up to 30 days if arriving by air or 15 days if arriving by land. A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a confirmed return or direct ticket are also required.

For longer stays, such as for business, education or extended tourism, you will need to arrange a visa in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling, as they may change.