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 would recommend taking a walk down Khao San Road, where you can sample Thai street food and really soak in the hustle.

The following day, head to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. During the afternoon, you'll visit Wat Pho and take a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River. For dinner, have a meal 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. The fourth day, take a flight to Chiang Mai. Around afternoon wander in the old city and 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 craft 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 9 is a much easier day on 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: Arrival in Bangkok: 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 up the bustling atmosphere.
• Day 2: Bangkok city tour: 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: Ayutthaya day trip: Take a day trip to Ayutthaya to explore historic ruins and temples. I suggest renting a bicycle for a unique city tour. Return to Bangkok in the evening.
• Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai: Fly to Chiang Mai in the morning. 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: Explore 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: Join a cooking class Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine from local chefs. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant arts and crafts scene in the surrounding villages, where you can meet local artisans and purchase unique souvenirs.
• Day 7: Fly to Phuket and relax: Fly to Phuket in the morning. Relax on the beautiful beaches and visit Patong Beach in the evening for lively nightlife and entertainment. Spend your final day soaking in the last moments of your Thai adventure before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

Check out more 7 day Thailand itineraries.

10 day Thailand itinerary

If you have 10 days in Thailand, you can enjoy a vibrant mix of city life, cultural experiences, and serene island relaxation.

• Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok: 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 up the bustling atmosphere.
• Day 2: Bangkok city tour: 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: Ayutthaya day trip: Take a day trip to Ayutthaya to explore historic ruins and temples. I suggest renting a bicycle for a unique city tour. Return to Bangkok in the evening.
• Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai: Fly to Chiang Mai in the morning. 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: 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: Explore  the rice fields: Spend the day exploring the beautiful rice fields around Chiang Mai. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, learn about traditional farming methods, and experience the serene rural life.
• Day 7: Travel to Koh Phangan: Fly to Surat Thani in the morning and make your way to Koh Phangan with one of the many ferries.
• Day 8 to 10: Island Exploration: Embark on a boat trip to nearby islands. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy a beachside lunch. Bring your camera – the scenery is breathtaking!

Check out more 10 day Thailand itineraries.

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: Arrival in Bangkok: 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 up the bustling atmosphere.
• Day 2: Explore Bangkok: Spend the day exploring Bangkok’s highlights, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, 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: River Kwai: 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. Spend the night in Kanchanaburi.
• Day 4: River Kwai and Hellfire Pass: 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. Return to Kanchanaburi for the night.
• Day 5: Erawan National Park: Visit Erawan National Park to see the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls. Enjoy hiking and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Return to Kanchanaburi for the night.
• Day 6: Travel to Khao Sok National Park: 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: Khao Sok National Park: 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: Travel to Krabi, a province known for its limestone cliffs and beautiful beaches. Settle into your hotel and relax.
• Day 9: Railay Beach: 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: Travel to Koh Lanta, a beautiful island known for its laid-back atmosphere. Settle into your beachfront accommodation and unwind.
• Day 11 to 13: Koh Lanta Exploration: 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: Return to Bangkok: Travel back to Bangkok for your final day. Do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

Check out more 14 day Thailand itineraries.

How to plan your Thailand travel itinerary

Planning your Thailand travel itinerary involves several key steps to ensure an unforgettable adventure, with weather playing a crucial role. First of all, decide on the length of your trip: Thailand offers a variety 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 those interests. For short trips, focus on one area and for longer stays, explore a mix of places like 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 to February) is ideal for most activities, while the hot season (March to June) is perfect for beach visits. The rainy season (July to October) can offer fewer crowds and lush scenery. Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to maximize your experience.

How many days do you need in Thailand?

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

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. This length of time is perfect for thoroughly exploring both popular attractions and hidden gems, ensuring a rich and fulfilling travel experience.

Getting around during your Thailand trip

Traveling through Thailand offers numerous convenient and flexible options to suit various preferences and budgets:

• Bus travel: Buses are a cost-effective and reliable mode of transportation, ideal for those traveling on a budget. Thailand’s extensive bus network connects most cities and tourist spots, though it may not be the quickest way to reach remote locations. Buses offer a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the scenery.
• Domestic flights: For quick and efficient travel over long distances, domestic flights are an excellent choice. Thai airlines provide regular flights between major hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, making it easy to cover more ground in less time while enjoying spectacular views from above.
• Train travel: Trains offer a leisurely and scenic travel experience, especially for longer journeys. The rail network in Thailand connects major destinations, with both day and night trains available, providing a comfortable and picturesque way to travel.
• Taxis: In cities and popular tourist areas, taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab are convenient for shorter distances. Ensure that you use licensed taxis, and agree on the fare upfront or make sure the meter is used to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Tuk-Tuks and motorbike taxis: For short trips and a more local experience, tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are widely available. These iconic modes of transport are perfect for navigating through city traffic, but always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

When is the best time to visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand depends on what you're looking for in your travel experience.

• Cool Season - 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 enjoying outdoor activities. However, it's also the most popular and expensive time to visit.
• Hot Season - March to May: If you can handle the heat, this season offers its own advantages, such as fewer tourists and lower prices. The weather can be quite hot, especially in central and northern Thailand, but it's a great time for beach destinations and water activities
• Rainy Season - June to October: The rainy season, or monsoon season, brings regular rainfall, which can be heavy at times. If you don't mind the rain, this period offers lush landscapes, lower prices, and fewer crowds. The rain showers are often short and heavy, typically in the late afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing
• Shoulder Seasons: Visiting during the shoulder seasons (November and late February) can be an excellent way to enjoy good weather and avoid the peak tourist crowds. These periods offer a balance of lower prices and pleasant weather conditions.

Do you need a visa for Thailand?

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

• UK travellers: 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. You must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a confirmed onward or return ticket.
• US travellers: US 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. A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a confirmed onward or return ticket are also required.

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