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20 Best Places to Visit in Thailand — From the Country's Oldest National Park With Secret Waterfalls to Stunning Islands With Excellent Diving

There's no shortage of beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

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Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

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For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

Tip: Book a room at the Capella Bangkok or Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — two iconic luxury hotels with stunning locations perched on the Chao Phraya River.

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Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

"I would say for anybody, whether it's their first time or a repeat trip to Thailand, if you have been there or you haven't, [you have to visit] Chiang Mai," said Grant Ekelund , Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and senior travel consultant and Asia specialist at InsideAsia. "It's such a neat city. It’s one of those destinations that has something for everyone … Are you a foodie? Do you want to hike? See cool temples? Have amazing trekking opportunities? It can all be done [here], and it slots into any itinerary perfectly."

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene. For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio's character went in search of an island paradise in the film "The Beach," which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

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While we’re on the topic of Koh Phi Phi, we’d be remiss not to mention Krabi province as a whole. Located in southern Thailand, bordering the Andaman Sea, Krabi is home to many of the beautiful beaches and islands that make Thailand famous. 

"I've been booking many [trips to] Krabi lately," said Ekelund. "It ticks a lot of boxes for people. You've got the beauty, cool cliffs, and interesting geology. It has a beach, but it's for people who don't want to simply park it on the sand for 10 days. Krabi offers activities and more." Some highlights include the beach town of Ao Nang, as well as islands like Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lipe, Railay Beach, and several national parks.

Koh Yao Noi

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My first trip to Thailand was to the small island of Koh Yao Noi back in 2013. One of the most beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is flecked off the coast of its sibling island, Koh Yao Yai. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages comprise most of the land here, along with the luxe Six Senses Yao Noi resort tucked along the eastern coast. The property’s infinity pool is legendary for its explosive sunrise views that blur the distinction between the sky and sea.

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Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

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Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. "Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are," said Ekelund. "We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don't have a city built up around it."

Mae Hong Son Loop

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Of all the places I've visited in Thailand, none stick with me as much as the Mae Hong Son Loop. This 300-mile route is most often tackled by travelers on the back of motorbikes looking to brave the mountain switchbacks that descend into the thick jungle and pass from small village to small village. It's not a journey to be taken lightly — motorbike experience is strongly recommended — but those who make the trip are rewarded with spectacular scenery and access to remote communities.

Khao Yai National Park

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Thailand has more than 100 national parks. The oldest is Khao Yai National Park, which also happens to be the country's third-largest. Within the park lies a web of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, and herds of elephants.

"Khao Yai has a lot of bat caves, too, which is one of the coolest things I've ever experienced," said Ekelund. "I stood there for 30 minutes while an unending stream of bats flew over my head. It was all so beautiful. It's a beautiful park with waterfalls, trekking, and hiking. Plus, it's just a couple of hours [by car] from Bangkok."

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Approximately two hours southeast of Chiang Mai is the city of Lampang. Much like many large cities in Thailand, Lampang has its fair share of temples, street food, and markets. But unlike the others, it feels like a place where time has stood still. Just listen for the sound of clip-clopping horse carts, still used for transportation, and you'll understand what I mean. Because of Lampang's integral role in the teak trade, many migrants from Myanmar made this northern city home, and you'll find teak mansions and Burmese-style temples everywhere.

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Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. "I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is," said Ekelund. "It's a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It's a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange."

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No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand's largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

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Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

"It's hard to beat Koh Samui. It's just beautiful," said Ekelund. "If you want easy access without a full resort stay, I recommend Anantara Bophut . You can walk to Fisherman's Village, and you won’t feel like you're 'stuck' at a resort. If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms."

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The tiny island of Koh Tao, located in the Gulf of Thailand and not too far from Koh Samui, is one of the country’s best locations for diving and snorkeling. In fact, most avid divers will tell you that Koh Tao is their destination of choice in Thailand. The palm-fringed island is best known for its abundance of sea turtles.

Kanchanaburi

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Shrouded in thick jungle and sliced by miles of track belonging to what was once known as the “Death Railway,” Kanchanaburi has a dark and tragic history. The infamous train route, which crosses the River Kwai, was built from 1940 to 1943 by prisoners of war taken by the Japanese in World War II. Today, only a small section of the rail route is open and takes travelers on a journey through the mountain cliffs and bamboo forests of Kanchanaburi. "If you're into history, beautiful vistas, trains, and wildlife, you can get all of that in Kanchanaburi. It's a place not many tourists go, either, so it has a lot to offer," said Ekelund.

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Trang is the province directly south of Krabi, which means it has the same beautiful stretch of Andaman Sea coastline, except with a fraction of the crowds. There’s no shortage of islands to explore around Trang, like Koh Kradan and Koh Muk. Koh Muk's crown jewel is the secret Emerald Cave, which can be entered via a dark tunnel that leads to a protected beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

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Located in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak can be thought of as Phuket’s much quieter cousin. Less than two hours from Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is home to miles of sprawling, empty beaches, plus it offers easy access to beautiful national parks.

"I've been hyping Khao Lak quite a bit for people who want something quieter," said Ekelund. "You have easy access to the Phuket International Airport, but it's much more chill than the other Andaman Islands. It has beautiful beaches, good infrastructure, a great spot for dining, and it’s not hard to get to."

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Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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South of Bangkok, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is best known for the glamorous, frenetic beach town of Hua Hin. The province runs down the skinny arm of the country, bordering the Gulf of Thailand on one side and Myanmar on the other. Here’s where you'll find Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park. The park's top attractions include a series of spectacular caves and a sprawling freshwater marsh. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beaches, islands, walking trails, and thick mangrove forests. It’s just an hour from Hua Hin and about 3.5 hours from Bangkok.

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This long, skinny island, also in the province of Krabi, flies under the radar, but it’s one of my favorite places in the country. Koh Lanta is home to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, an amazing spot for diving and seeing undeveloped beaches.

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Best places to visit in thailand.

With a history that spans centuries and an exotic and friendly culture, Thailand welcomes travelers with white sand beaches, bustling cities and world-renowned culinary traditions. But with all that Thailand has to offer, you might be overwhelmed by where to head first. U.S. News considered attractions, seasonality, food options and more to determine the best places to visit in Thailand. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Railay Beach

Kanchanaburi province, khao sok national park, hua hin district, khao yai national park.

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is a welcome reprieve from the commotion of Bangkok. Here, you'll be treated to beautiful, mountainous landscapes and an Old City full of historical temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Venture outside of the city to Doi Suthep temple for sweeping views of the city below. Night markets are also a must-do in Chiang Mai, so pencil in time for the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (one of Thailand's oldest and most well-known night bazaars). And no matter what, leave time for a visit to Elephant Nature Park for some rest and relaxation with Thailand's gentle giants.

Thailand's capital city is nothing short of exhilarating. The city offers a hearty mix of big-city bustle and modern sights, such as the Jim Thompson House, alongside ancient attractions, including Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Just don't forget to pack modest clothing for visits to sacred sites, or you won't be admitted. While here, be sure to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the largest street markets in the world – and eat at some of Bangkok's more than 300,000 street food stalls (some Michelin starred). At night, take in the skyline by exploring the rooftop bar scene.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and also the most popular with travelers. The island draws visitors in with its many palm-fringed beaches and relatively low travel costs, including everything from food to hotels. Hit up highly regarded Patong Beach, party the night away in the Patong district or head inland to Phuket Old Town to experience more local culture and find cheaper lodging options. Complete your once-in-a-lifetime trip by taking a long-tail boat tour to other islands in the area to swim, snorkel or scuba dive.

Home to five-star resorts, amazing nightlife and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches , the island of Ko Samui has something for everyone. When you're not lounging on the white sand, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment, visit an elephant sanctuary or explore ancient temples like Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Save time in your schedule for a daytrip to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park, a 42-island archipelago that is accessible via speedboat. Here, travelers can kayak, snorkel and scuba dive.

Although the region was devastated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Phang Nga has recovered and rebuilt. During the cool (though still relatively hot), dry season (from November to February), tourists descend upon the province to check out protected areas like Mu Ko Surin National Park, one of the best diving sites in Thailand. Hiking and snorkeling are also excellent ways to explore while admiring southern Thailand's natural beauty. Before leaving, don't forget to save time for a visit to Ao Phang-Nga National Park, famous for its caves, emerald green waters and the picturesque James Bond Island.

Railay Beach features four stunning stretches of sand to sink your toes into. Railay West and Phra Nang Beach are two of the peninsula's most popular beach spots, offering luxury resorts, soft sand and jaw-dropping views of limestone cliffs. Tonsai Beach is more laid-back and budget-friendly thanks to its quieter, more removed location. Meanwhile, Railay East, while not great for swimming, is where you'll find some of the area's best nightlife venues. Regardless of which beaches you choose to visit, you'll have access to some of Thailand's best rock climbing locations, plus various walking paths and coral reefs.

Trang's secluded beaches and stunning islands have made it an up-and-coming travel destination. The dramatic surrounding landscapes (think: lush jungles and limestone mountains) contrast beautifully against the beaches' white sands and crystal-clear waters. You can spend days island-hopping to see and do all that Trang has to offer. Top activities you may enjoy include snorkeling around Ko Kradan, swimming to a hidden beach cave on Ko Muk and wandering through Thung Khai Botanical Garden. And after you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, head to one of Trang's 10 districts to immerse yourself in Thai culture.

Ko Phi Phi features some of Thailand's most popular beaches. Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands, is known for its lively party scene, hidden coves and deep coral reefs and gardens that are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is where you'll find verdant cliffs surrounding Maya Bay's beautiful beaches, which you may recognize from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie "The Beach." The best time to visit is between November and April, though be prepared for hordes of other visitors during this time.

Situated in northern Thailand, there are countless reasons to visit Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) and Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are two of the city's most popular cultural landmarks, but travelers should also save time for the incredible Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai's iconic all-white temple. After exploring Chiang Rai's architectural wonders, enjoy a boat tour of the Mae Kok River, go shopping at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar or explore the Baan Dam Museum, a collection of buildings created by artist Thawan Duchanee.

Thailand's third-largest province captivates travelers with its natural beauty. Its diverse landscape – which features everything from seven-tiered waterfalls, rivers and mountains to Neolithic caves and national parks – is ideal for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and rafting. But a trip here wouldn't be complete without visiting some of the area's World War II sites, including the notorious Bridge over the River Kwai. Start your history lesson at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that tells the tragic story of how the Thailand-Burma Railway was built. Then, stop by the JEATH War Museum to see a replica of a prisoners-of-war camp.

Even if you don't consider yourself an outdoorsy person, a trip to Khao Sok National Park is sure to take your breath away. Home to limestone cliffs, awe-inspiring waterfalls and the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, Khao Sok is an incredibly bio-diverse area. Here, you'll find roughly 200 kinds of flora and many different animal species, including tigers, elephants and Southern pig-tailed macaques (monkeys). The park sees a lot of rainfall year-round, so for the best chance of staying dry, time your visit during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

For a vacation full of rich cultural attractions, head to Lampang. Sitting about 70 miles southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is known for its horse-drawn carriages, authentic Thai cuisine and ornate temples, including the ancient Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang. Spend some time browsing for souvenirs along Kad Kong Ta, a thoroughfare that turns into a street market on weekends, or learn about the production of the chicken bowl at the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to nearby Chae Son National Park, where tourists boil eggs in the park's natural hot springs.

A popular resort destination along the Gulf of Thailand, the Hua Hin District offers a full roster of activities to pick from (think: water parks, golf courses and night markets). Visitors can ride banana boats at Hua Hin Beach or enjoy the views from the top of Khao Takiap hill (just beware the resident wild monkeys). Hua Hin also serves as an excellent jumping off point for daytrips – spectacular sights like the Phraya Nakhon Cave and Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest national park in Thailand, are located less than 40 miles outside of the city center.

Khao Yai National Park boasts a number of impressive superlatives: It's the oldest and most-visited national park in Thailand, the country's third-largest national park and one of mainland Asia's largest intact monsoon forests. Plus, this stunning national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 30 miles of hiking trails, some of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Keep in mind, though that guides are required for most of the trails. While exploring, you may spot some of Khao Yai's wild residents, including elephants, sun bears and several species of hornbills.

Named Ko Chang (or "Elephant Island" in Thai) because of its elephant-shaped headland, this large island is more secluded than Phuket but no less beautiful. Its west coast is dotted with stunning coastlines (some sandy, some rocky), small towns and a variety of accommodation options, while its interior offers tropical jungles and gushing waterfalls to trek through and to. But remember, Ko Chang's tourism infrastructure isn't as well developed as other Thai islands, so getting here is a bit more of a trek.

Located in southern Thailand near the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is a popular stopover for tourists traveling between the two countries. This cosmopolitan city is a premier shopping hub, boasting several malls, night bazaars and a unique floating market, where travelers can purchase local delicacies and goods from vendors stationed in small boats along a canal. When you're not bargaining for the best price, check out the impressive Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, a temple constructed entirely out of stainless steel. Another can't-miss tourist attraction in Hat Yai is the towering statue Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj, which sits within Hat Yai Municipal Park.

This northeast Thai city is ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed vacation itinerary. Start off with a visit to the temple Wat Phothisomphon, then learn about Udon Thani's Chinese heritage at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Center. Other travelers will want to prioritize Udon Thani's natural wonders, which include Nong Prachak Public Park and serene Red Lotus Lake. While you're here, considering making a daytrip to nearby Ban Chiang, a Bronze Age UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Southeast Asia.

14 Day Tour of Thailand & Laos

Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train

This border-crossing epic marries Southeast Asian escapism with the timeless romance of train travel.

Starts at: Bangkok

Ends at: Bangkok

Duration: 14 days

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Thailand 2-Week Itinerary: How To Spend 2 Weeks In Thailand

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Need help planning your two-week Thailand trip? You’ve come to the right place!

Having visited Thailand three times now, each time for different periods of times, I’ve been able to travel the country extensively and see different parts of it every time.

It’s a country I love very much and can highly recommend to everyone. I love the cuisine, the friendly locals, the pristine beaches and stunning natural landscapes.

If it’s your first time planning a trip to Thailand, this ultimate Thailand two-week itinerary is perfect for you. It covers a little bit of everything – a good mix of cities, culture, history, nature and the beautiful Thai beaches.

If you want to spend 2 weeks in Thailand and be sure to have an all-rounded and great experience, this is the 2-week itinerary for you.

• 1.1 Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
• 1.2 Day 2: Explore the temples in Bangkok
• 1.3 Day 3: Visit the floating and railway markets
• 1.4 Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai
• 1.5 Day 5: Spend a day with elephants at Elephant Nature Park
• 1.6 Day 6: Travel to Chiang Rai & go temple hunting
• 1.7 Day 7: More temples & return to Chiang Mai
• 1.8 Day 8: Fly to Phuket & relax in Patong
• 1.9 Day 9: Island hopping in Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
• 1.10 Day 10: Do a boat tour to Koh Yao Noi
• 1.11 Day 11: Travel to the Surin Islands
• 1.12 Day 12: Relax in the Surin Islands
• 1.13 Day 13: Back to Phuket
• 1.14 Day 14: Back to Bangkok & fly home
• 2.1 Currency
• 2.2 Cuisine
• 2.3 Best times to visit Thailand
• 2.4 How to get around Thailand
• 2.5 Essentials to pack for 2 weeks in Thailand

Island hopping with a typical wooden long tail boat in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

How to spend 2 weeks in Thailand

Day 1: arrive in bangkok.

Even if your flight lands late, there are still tons of things you can do in Bangkok at night . You could start your 2 weeks in Thailand with a chill evening at the Chatuchak night market .

This is one of the most iconic markets in Thailand – featured in various food shows and even in Asia’s Next Top Model.

It’s a huge street market with loads of food and souvenirs stalls, and is characterised by the colourful stall tents that create a colourful patchwork when seen from above. 

It’s the perfect place to start your Thailand trip and start with tasting some amazing Thai street food. There is a mall right next to it which offers epic views over the market.

Chatuchak Night Market in Bangkok as seen from above

If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, you could also start the first evening of your three days in Bangkok with one of the many rooftop bars in Bangkok .

The most famous is Sky Bar, which you might recognise from the famous movie The Hangover. Drinks are expensive (I paid 30 GBP for a cocktail!) but the sunset view is stunning.

There are also loads of cute cafes in Bangkok  that you can visit at any time of day.

Enjoying the sunset view over Bangkok from Sky Bar

Where to stay in Bangkok

We spent our first few nights in Thailand at the SO Sofitel Bangkok , one of the best hotels in Bangkok with a rooftop pool .

It was the perfect hotel to stay at for the start of our trip. It’s very luxurious and with a rooftop pool, which is the perfect place to chill after a long flight, or to escape the Thai heat after a long day exploring Bangkok.

The rooms are spacious and have a beautiful interior decor.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at the SO Sofitel Bangkok

The rooftop pool of the SO Sofitel in Bangkok, Thailand

If SO Sofitel isn’t quite your vibe, whether you’re looking for a more  family friendly hotel in Bangkok , or for a party hostel, I have listed below other options in Bangkok for other budgets.

Budget: Bangkok is the starting point of many backpacker trips and as such, it’s also home to many hostels.

If you’re looking for a fun hostel, Mad Monkey has a big party reputation, if you want something quieter Kloem or The Yard are probably better options.

Click here to book your stay in a hostel in Bangkok! 

Mid-range: I stayed in two different hotels close to Khao San Road. The New Siam Palace Ville and Buddy Lodge Hotel were both nice, with spacious rooms and pools.

Nothing fancy but definitely a step up from a hostel dorm. It’s also nice to have a pool where you can relax at the end of a long day exploring temples in Ayutthaya!

Click here to book your stay at Buddy Lodge Hotel in Bangkok!

Enjoying the rooftop pool of SO Sofitel Bangkok

Day 2: Explore the temples in Bangkok

Buddhism is the most practiced religion in Thailand, as you will immediately see after a quick wander around Bangkok. Just in Bangkok there are over 400 temples!

For your first full day in Bangkok, prepare yourself for a full immersion of culture and history! Although let’s be realistic, visiting all 400 isn’t feasible, which is why I’ve outlined here the best ones.

Start your day early by visiting the Royal Palace . It opens at 7AM, but you want to be there earlier in order to beat the crowds. Make sure to purchase your entrance online beforehand , so you won’t have to queue on the day.

The Royal Palace, also known as the Grand Palace, is a complex of buildings that has been the official residence of the King of Siam since the 1700s.

It offers the best of Thai architecture, with prominent colors of cream, blue and gold. It’s quite a marvel to explore.

Click here to book your Bangkok Grand Palace entrance and self-guided tour!

Exploring the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand

After the Royal Palace you can go on to visit Wat Pho, which is only a short walk away.

Wat Pho is famous for being one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand and home to one of the biggest reclining golden Buddha statues in the world.

This huge golden Buddha is extremely iconic, and no Thailand itinerary would be complete without it. Walking around it really has a way to make you feel small.

Wat Pho is a beautiful temple though so don’t stop at the big buddha statue, wander around the complex and discover some of the less touristy corners.

Exploring the outside grounds of Wat Pho in Bangkok, Thailand

Just across the river from Wat Pho is Wat Arun , another famous buddhist temple. It is actually the first temple in the list of six Buddhist temples in Thailand classified as the first class royal temples.

It is also recognized by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme. The temple also houses a school of Thai medicine and is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Personally, I think you could visit these three temples in Bangkok independently. But if you prefer to have a local guide taking care of the transfers, and telling you about the history and culture of what you’re seeing, I have listed below some highly reviewed tours that you can join.

Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun Private Tour – This private tour will take you to the three temples I have listed in this itinerary, with the added bonus of a private guide just for you.

Bangkok City Highlights Temple & Market Tour – This isn’t a private tour, but besides the temples it includes an additional additional stop at a local market.

Both tours are very popular online, with very high reviews. If you don’t want to deal with the faff of transport within the busy streets of Bangkok, they’re the best way to get around.

On top of that, you’ll also have a local guide sharing with you everything about the history of the temples. What better way to immerse yourself in Thai culture than learn about it from a local?

Click here to purchase your Bangkok city temples tour,   or click below to see prices & availability!

The stunning Wat Arun temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Day 3: Visit the floating and railway markets

On day three you will spend half of the day exploring the famous floating and railway markets. These are located outside Bangkok, so you have to visit them on an organised tour , as it’s the easiest way to get there.

We did a tour that set off around 8AM, and returned just in time for a late lunch. The markets are about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive outside of Bangkok.

Which market you visit first will largely depend on what time you set off, as they will time it so that you can see the train passing through at the railway market. The railway market is cool, but odd.

One moment you’re walking along the tracks looking at the various stalls, then all of a sudden you see people cover their products with blankets or taking them inside, and a moment later the train comes!

You’ll find yourself standing quite tight on the edge of it, as the space between the train and houses that surround the tracks is really minimal.

Click here to check out prices and availability for a floating market & railway market tour from Bangkok, or see directly in the calendar below!

The famous railway market just outside Bangkok, Thailand

The floating market is pretty close to it and is very different. It’s much more chaotic, with proper boat traffic jams along the river at peak times.

There are a number of locals selling products from their boats or stall along the river, but there is quite a big market also surrounding it that you can explore on foot.

We found the experience of bargaining in the river quite interesting, since everyone is on the move, negotiations are much shorter and you’re more likely to get a good deal!

Our tour didn’t include a cruise on the typical wooden boats but you can arrange this for 50 THB per person once you arrive there.

If you don’t want to pay for the extra just walking along the canals and in the market inland is very interesting too.

Click here to book your Bangkok floating & railway market tour!

The floating market close to Bangkok, Thailand

Once you return to Bangkok you have you have a variety of options for your afternoon.

I would recommend relaxing at your hotel and chilling by the poolside, and then adventuring out to Khao San Road night market when the sun falls.

Khao San Road is one of the busiest streets in Bangkok, where you can find anything you’re looking for.

The market has the same charm as any Thai market – chaotically beautiful. There are also tons of restaurants and bars where you can drink and party until the early hours of the morning.

I didn’t include it in this Thailand 2-week itinerary, but another popular day trip from Bangkok is Ayutthaya .

I visited it on my second Thailand trip, and while it’s a cultural significant historical area, I found the temples in Bangkok and Chiang Rai to be more impressive.

Since you only have two weeks in Thailand, I figured it’s best to focus on the truly stunning temples, and not waste time on long day trips.

Khao San Road night market in Bangkok

Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai

On the fourth day you’ll be travelling to Chiang Mai. There are multiple ways to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, including buses, trains, taxis and flying.

While it’s not the cheapest, flying is obviously the quickest and if you only have 2 weeks in Thailand, I would highly recommend it.

Make sure to get an early morning flight so that you have time in the afternoon to start exploring Chiang Mai. One of the most popular activities to do in Chiang Mai is to attend a Thai cooking class .

Most packages include pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation, and they will directly bring you to the cooking school or farm, where they will show you how to cook traditional Thai dishes like the Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, Penang curry and mango sticky rice.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE CHIANG MAI TRAVEL GUIDE |

Pad Thai; one of the most traditional, and popular amongst tourists, dishes in Thailand (I made this one!)

There are full-day or half-day cooking classes. The full-day experiences include also a visit to the local market where you are shown how to choose the right ingredients, or a tour of the farm where you pick them yourself.

We landed in Chiang Mai around lunch so decided to do the half-day cooking class , and it was the perfect way to spend our first afternoon and evening in Chiang Mai.

During the cooking class you will be cooking alongside a local Thai chef, who will explain every step of the way what you need to do. At the end of the class, you get to eat the delicious dishes you made! 

Thai cuisine is very delicious and unique, as it has been influenced by both Indian and Chinese flavours. Some dishes are quite spicy, but there are a lot that have been adapted for Western palates and still super yummy.

What better way to get acquainted with Thai cuisine but to cook it? We did our cooking class with Grandma’s Home Cooking School and can highly recommend it.

The staff were friendly and professional, and the food was amazing!

Click here to book your Thai cooking class at Grandma’s Home Cooking School,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Mango sticky rice, one of the most traditional Thai desserts

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai we stayed at Le Meridien , a great hotel to stay if you want to be pampered during your travels.

The rooms are spacious and have beautiful views over Chiang Mai, with the mountains in the distance, and it has a great rooftop pool where you can relax and enjoy the sunset.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Le Meridien Chiang Mai

If you’re looking for something cheaper, I have listed other accommodation options in Chiang Mai below.

Budget: Leaf Hostel – While it might not have a party reputation, this hostel offers clean and spacious dorms. if you’re looking for a very sociable hostel I’ve heard fun things about Bodega Chiang Mai Party Hostel.

Click here to book your stay at Leaf Hostel!

Mid-range: POR Thapae Gate – If you don’t fancy a hostel dorm, a lovely mid-range option is POR Thapae Gate . Located in the heart of the Old City, this hotel has spacious rooms and a pool where you can chill after a long day exploring Chiang Mai.

Click here to book your stay at POR Thapae Gate!

Enjoying the sunset from the rooftop pool of Le Meridien in Chiang Mai

Day 5: Spend a day with elephants at Elephant Nature Park

Chiang Mai is becoming one of the most popular spots in Thailand for ethical elephant encounters.

Most travellers visiting Thailand will spend at least half a day at Elephant Nature Park , an ethical elephant sanctuary that serves as a rescue and rehabilitation centre for elephants, and even other animals such as dogs and cats.

Thanks to ENP locals involved in the elephant tourism industry are starting to realise that it is more profitable to run an ethical sanctuary than a riding camp, meaning there has been a big shift in recent years with an increase of ethical elephant sanctuaries.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SEE ELEPHANTS IN THAILAND ETHICALLY |

Feeding the elephants at Elephant Green Hill, part of the Elephant Nature Park “saddle-off” project

Walking in the forest with one of the rescued elephants

While ENP is the more famous sanctuary with more elephants, if you want a more unique experience, I would recommend choosing one of the smaller sanctuaries affiliated with Elephant Nature Park.

We chose to visit Elephant Green Hill , a sanctuary that is part of the “saddle off” project of ENP, where the animals are rescued from riding camps.

They had only three elephants, but me and my friends were the only three tourists there so we had a really incredible close encounter with the elephants. 

The experience costs 2,500 THB per person, which includes also your lunch and hotel pick up and drop off. You will spend the day taking care of the animals; you will feed them, bathe them and walk them in the forest.

Click here to book your elephant encounter in Chiang Mai, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Happy elephants bathing at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

If you want to meet elephants in Thailand, or anywhere in Asia, I highly recommend visiting a sanctuary like Elephant Nature Park and not a riding camp.

Elephants are incredibly intelligent animals and they are not treated well in riding camps.

During an ethical encounter like this you will be able to spend longer with them, and somewhat connect with them, not just ride them and contribute to their abuse.

You should also make sure you do your research before visiting one, as not all camps are as ethical as they claim to be.

Spending time with the elephants at Elephant Green Hill

Day 6: Travel to Chiang Rai & go temple hunting

Day 6 is going to start with a long journey so make sure you rest well on the previous evening to be able to get up early in the morning and catch the morning bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai .

Or party all night and sleep on the bus, totally up to you! The bus ride takes around 4 hours depending on if you get a faster or slower one.

You will arrive in Chiang Rai in time to settle down, relax a bit and then take a Grab to the Blue Temple. The Blue Temple, also known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is a Buddhist temple painted in a very vibrant blue.

The temple houses a large blue Buddha and various artifacts of the Buddhist religion.

While it is an active temple and place of worship, it is more popular as a temple for tourists due to its unusual blue colour, which gives traditional Thai architecture a unique spin.

The front of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

The inside of the Blue Temple in Chiang Rai

From the Blue Temple you can get a Grab to the White Temple, it will take around 20 minutes and cost 100 THB. Just be aware that it closes at 5PM!

We didn’t realise that was the case and we timed it wrong, arriving there just as it was closing. This actually proved to be a blessing in disguise as we got to enjoy a beautiful sunset all by ourselves at the White Temple.

Yes we couldn’t go in, but the sun was setting behind it and there was a stunning golden light everywhere. The White Temple is another Buddhist temple, which as you can guess by the name, is fully white in colour. 

Motifs of dragons, half-dragon and half-human hybrids alluding to the gods are also largely used in the architecture of the White Temple.

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Thailand, at sunset

If you want to avoid the hassle of arranging Grabs and taxis between temples, you can also join an organised tour . 

Besides not having to worry about transport, you’ll always have a local guide with you, telling you about the history and cultural importance of the temples you’re visiting.

Click here to book your Chiang Rai temples tour,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

While we’re talking about tours, you can also consider  visiting the temples in Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai . It’s a very popular choice, since it saves you having to change hotels just for one night.

That said, I personally find it quite intense as it would be a 14-hour day, with loads of hours of driving and not much time in Chiang Rai. Instead, why not spend a night in Chiang Rai ?

After all, if you have 14 days in Thailand you can easily fit it in, and it gives you the opportunity to visit the the night market in Chiang Rai.

If you do choose to visiting Chiang Rai on a day trip , this tour is the most popular and highly reviewed online.

Click here to book your Chiang Rai temples day trip from Chiang Mai!

Where to stay in Chiang Rai

Here are some cool places to stay in Chiang Rai for every budget.

Budget: Mercy Hostel – If you don’t mind sleeping in a hostel dorm, Mercy Hostel is a great choice. Great value for money and excellent location.

Click here to book your stay at Mercy Hostel!

Mid-range: Nak Nakara Hotel – If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, but without breaking the bank, Nak Nakara Hotel is a great option.

Located right in the heart of Chiang Rai they also have a pool where you can cool off after a long day chasing temples in Chiang Rai.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Nak Nakara Hotel!

Luxury: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa – Even if you only have one night in Chiang Rai, no reason why you shouldn’t spoil yourself!

Treat yourself to a fancy stay at the Legend Chiang Rai , where you can relax after the long bus journey.

Click here to book your stay at The Legend Chiang Rai Resort & Spa!

The back of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Day 7: More temples & return to Chiang Mai

I hope you haven’t had enough of temples just yet, because there are a couple more you should check out before leaving Chiang Rai!

First stop on the agenda is Wat Huay Pla Kung , if you can get up early enough to visit at sunrise even better.

It is closed at this time, so you won’t be able to go inside the temples but the outside of these temples is absolutely stunning at sunrise.

The Wat Huay Pla Kung is a group of three buildings, two temples and a huge, white statue also known as Chiang Rai’s big Buddha.

It’s a statue offered to the Goddess of Mercy, and when paired with its huge white dragons built along the staircase it’s an absolutely magnificent sight to behold, especially at sunrise.

The big buddha of Wat Huay Pla Kung in Chiang Rai, Thailand

You should ask your Grab driver to wait for you, as you won’t find many available Grabs in the area early in the morning. We didn’t think of doing that and ended up having to hitchhike a ride back to Chiang Rai!

We then decided to go back to the White Temple as soon as it opened so that we could actually see the inside of the temple too.

As good as the sunset was on the previous day, we still wanted to see this beautiful temple up close! There is a 50 THB fee to enter the temple.

We then took the bus back to Chiang Mai in the afternoon, where we then spent the last evening in Chiang Mai wandering around the night market. 

We only spent a few days in Chiang Mai and the surrounding areas, but there is so much cool stuff to do that you could easily spend one week in Chiang Mai , and still not see it all!

Exploring the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai

Day 8: Fly to Phuket & relax in Patong

If you’re anything like me, by this stage you’re probably a little templed out and kind of fed up of street markets. Worry not, because for the last part of your two-week trip, it is finally time for some beach chilling! 

You can fly to Phuket directly from Chiang Mai, and from there drive one hour to Patong. Patong is the main tourist area in Phuket.

Relax by the beach after your flight and then try to visit the Big Buddha at sunset. I know I said no more temples, but this is a bit of an exception, as it’s more of a viewpoint than temple.

The Big Buddha of Phuket is high at the top of a hill and has stunning 360 views over the coastline of Phuket. 

Just make sure to set off with plenty of time to spare as the tuk-tuks can be quite slow and the traffic can be crazy. You don’t want to miss the sunset!

If you want to spend a lavish evening in Phuket, you can visit Bangla Road in Patong. It’s a pretty crazy street with tons of bars, restaurants and clubs and is the perfect spot to enjoy the nightlife in Thailand.

Enjoying the sunset from the Big Buddha of Phuket, Thailand

Where to stay in Phuket

In Phuket we stayed at The Crib Patong , a really cute boutique hotel that was close to the nightlife of Bangla Road, but just far enough that the noise wasn’t annoying when you wanted to sleep.

Check the latest prices and availability at The Crib Patong here!

I listed below some other accommodation options for other budgets.

Budget – Phuket is one of the biggest backpacker destinations in Thailand. You will find lots of hostels for all moods. I’ve heard good things about Bodega Phuket Party Hostel if you’re in a party mood, and BearPacker Patong Hostel , if you’re looking for something more relaxed.

Click here to book your stay in a hostel in Phuket!

Luxury: Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa, Karon Beach – On my first stay in Phuket I stayed at the Hilton in Karon Beach. Located right on the beach and away from the chaos of Patong, it’s the perfect place if you’re looking for a fancy stay.

Click here to book your stay at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia in Karon Beach!

Sunset over the ocean as seen from our room at the Hilton

Day 9: Island hopping in Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

The beach in Patong isn’t incredible, which is why Phuket is used by a lot of travellers as base for day trips to the surrounding islands. The tours to Phang Nga Bay are amongst the most popular.

Prices for a day trips from Phuket to Phang Nga Bay vary depending on tour size, what stops you do and what type of boat you choose, but generally speaking, they all tend to include pick up, drop off and lunch.

Pick up will usually be around 7AM while the return is at 6PM approximately, depending where in Phuket you’re staying. From Patong, it takes around 1 hour to drive to the harbour from which your boat will set off.

During the tour you will go kayaking into secret lagoons, snorkelling with fishes, relaxing at beautiful beaches, and even visit the famous James Bond Island, which became a popular tourist attraction after featuring in the Hollywood movie Agent 007.

On James Bond island you will find tourist shops and stalls where you can buy souvenirs and food if you get hungry.

Click here to book your day trip to James Bond Island & Phang Nga Bay from Phuket,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The iconic limestone formation of James Bond Island, Thailand

Cruising in Phang Nga Bay. Thailand

Day 10: Do a boat tour to Koh Yao Noi

James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay are very cool, but can also get quite touristy. After a day trip there, I can imagine you now want to see something a little more unique.

The islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are not as famous as Phang Nga Bay yet. They are slowly becoming a popular island hopping destination, but are still off the main tourist radar.

Tours to these islands tend to be a bit more expensive than the James Bong Island trip, but they’re well worth it. Tours always including pick up, drop off, lunch and snacks throughout the day.

Day 10 will be quite similar to day 9 in terms of schedule, with an early morning pick up, around 1 hour drive to the harbour and then a full day of island hopping.

You won’t find tours that visit only the Koh Yao Islands. For example this one has great reviews online, and it visit also Phang Nga Bay and Hong Island.

On our tour we did multiple stops throughout the day for snorkelling and beach chilling, alternating between pristine sand bars and dramatic cliffs.

The spots weren’t as famous, but the beaches were considerably less busy and we were very happy about it. Alternatively, you could also explore the Similan Islands , another very popular day trip from Phuket.

Click here to book your day trip to Koh Yao Noi and other off the beaten track islands!

Exploring the beaches of Koh Yao Noi in Thailand

Typical Thai longboats on the beach in Hong Island, Thailand

Day 11: Travel to the Surin Islands

The journey to the Surin Islands is long, but it is well worth it. It is a four hour car ride to Khura Buri Port and one hour by fast boat.

The car transfer depends on how well you negotiate (we paid 700 THB per person) and speedboat ticket costs around 1,700 THB per person.

The Surin Islands are a true beach paradise! With crystal clear turquoise blue waters, soft white sand beaches, and a rich marine life with lots of corals and fishes.

They are still off the main tourist radar, and the lack of hotels or proper accommodation on the islands are proof of that. The only option to stay on the islands overnight is to either do a diving live aboard trip or to camp on the beach.

| READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE SURIN ISLANDS |

Enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Surin Islands in Thailand

Day 12: Relax in the Surin Islands

I recommend spending a good two nights here in the Surin Islands to really get an opportunity to disconnect, enjoy the beach and make it truly worth the long journey from Phuket.

For these two days, you can go on snorkelling (it’s one of the best snorkelling and scuba diving spots in Thailand after all!) go on boat trips, hike around the island, visit the local Moken Village, scuba dive and just chill and relax by the beach.

If you don’t feel comfortable camping on the beach for two nights, you can also stay in Khao Lake (the town from which the speed boat departs) and visit the Surin Islands on a day tour from there.

This tour has great reviews online. It includes pick up, drop off, lunch, snorkelling equipment and national park entrance fees. It’s a great option if you don’t fancy sleeping in the Surin Islands.

Click here to book your snorkelling day trip to the Surin Islands,   or check out the calendar below for prices & availability!

Snorkelling in the Surin Islands, Thailand

Fish and corals that you can see while snorkelling in the Surin Islands, Thailand

Day 13: Back to Phuket

After 2 nights in paradise, it’s time to head back to Phuket. The exact return time from the Surin Islands to mainland Thailand will depend on the tides.

You will usually set off around 1PM with the long tail boat from the camping area to the speedboat drop off point.

The actual speedboat usually comes around 3PM but check with your local guides to be sure, so that you can get some time to relax on the beach beforehand. 

It’s going to be a long car journey back to Phuket and I recommend sleeping at Sirinat National Park. It’s closer to the airport and offers a nice beach with beautiful sunset views.

Sunset at Mai Ngam Beach in Koh Surin Neua, Thailand

Day 14: Back to Bangkok & fly home

Chill at the beaches of Phuket in the morning, and then fly from Phuket to Bangkok later on in the day.

Depending on how much layover time you have before your international flight, you can go out and explore more street food markets in Bangkok, visit the famous mall Paragon (also the seventh largest in Asia) or just chill by the riverbanks in Bangkok.

And that brings your Thailand 2-week itinerary to an end!

It’s not the exact itinerary I followed on any of my Thailand trips, but after visiting Thailand three times, it’s how I would recommend spending 2 weeks in Thailand.

This 2-week Thailand itinerary includes a bit of everything, including temples, beaches, nature and cities, and is well paced so that you don’t find yourself rushing from one place to the next.

Wat Benchamabophit temple in Bangkok, Thailand

2023 Update

Hello friends! Four years after first publishing this article, I had the pleasure of travelling once again to Thailand (for my fourth trip) and visiting places I hadn’t previously been to.

While I still believe the Thailand 2-week itinerary I outlined above is pretty perfect for any first time travellers, it wouldn’t really be complete without mentioning also Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands .

On my last Thailand trip I spent one week in Railay Beach , a truly stunning beach destination with a very laid back town.

Located pretty much at the same height as Phuket, just on the other side of the Gulf of Thailand, Railay Beach can make for an excellent base for day trips.

Long-tail boats lined up at Railay Beach West in Krabi, Thailand

Besides the Surin Islands, you can visit all the same places listed in my itinerary above, plus others too.

If you don’t want to move around as much, you could base yourself in Railay Beach, and from there go on day trips to Phi Phi , Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai and the famous Krabi four islands tour .

That way you will see iconic places like Maya Bay , but also lesser known beaches like Ko Poda. It’s a great way to alternate between famous sights and off the beaten track destinations.

Railay Beach doesn’t have the nightlife and fame of Phuket, but for some travellers I imagine that’s just a plus!

You could also visit the paradise island of Koh Lipe . Getting to Koh Lipe can be a bit of a nightmare, as it’s basically closer to Malaysia than Thailand, but it’s actually pretty perfect if you plan to then island hop over to Langkawi on a wider South East Asia trip.

Discovering the beautiful Maya Bay in Phi Phi Leh, Thailand

The crystal clear water of Koh Poda in Krabi, Thailand

Preparing for 2 weeks in Thailand

Having covered my suggested Thailand 2-week itinerary, I want to share with you some useful information before you start planning this epic trip!

Below I tried to answer some of the most common questions travellers have about visiting Thailand that I hope you will find useful.

The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).

Last time I visited, 1 USD was equal to around 30 THB. Food is extremely cheap, and tuk-tuk rides are usually 150 THB for a short distance.

When travelling longer distances, make sure to first negotiate properly with the drivers before committing to the ride, or ask them to drive by the meter.

Enjoying the view over Koh Phi Phi Don from the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint in Thailand

I love Thai cuisine. I find it’s the perfect cuisine to introduce Western travellers to food in South East Asia, as it’s super tasty but has quite a lot of dishes where the flavours aren’t too strong or spicy.

Thai cuisine features a lot of fruits native to the area, such as papayas and mangos. Some iconic and must try dishes are the green papaya salad, pad thai, pancit, tom yum soup and mussaman curry.

I have a soft spot for mango sticky rice, a delicious dessert made of, as you can imagine from the name, mango and sweet rice!

Penang chicken curry – a traditional Thai curry I made at the cooking class in Chiang Mai

Best times to visit Thailand

Thailand is a tropical country, and is quite hot and humid all throughout the year, but especially so in the summer.

You can visit Thailand all year round but the best time to do so is during the cool and dry season, from November to April, when there are less rains but there is a colder weather (for Thai standards, meaning it’s still the perfect winter escape for Europeans)!

Also, one thing to note is that different parts of the island are affected by different monsoons, so there are some islands that are best to visit in summer and others in winter.

This itinerary is best suited for a Thailand winter trip, as the islands around Phuket are affected by the summer monsoons.

If you’re visiting Thailand in summer, you can still do the first part of this trip, but for the beach part of it you’d want to visit the islands around Koh Samui instead.

Enjoying the empty beaches of Koh Lanta, Thailand

How to get around Thailand

Getting around Thailand is pretty easy. Thailand has a very developed tourism industry, meaning it’s usually fairly easy to get anywhere and to arrange transports on site.

Your preferred mode of transport will usually change depending on how far you have to travel.

Buses in Thailand can be very efficient. There are also ferries and minivans, depending on the place that you are travelling to. For short distances tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transport.

Snorkelling in the Phi Phi Islands

Essentials to pack for 2 weeks in Thailand

For a full breakdown of what you should pack for Thailand, check out my Thailand packing list . Here I just wanted to include a couple essentials that I definitely don’t want you to forget!

Fast drying towel – whether it’s to use at the beach, in a hostel that doesn’t provide them, after bathing with the elephants, these always come in handy! Quick to dry and they don’t take up much space.

Waterproof jacket – if you visit in rainy season!

Dry bag – To keep your valuables safe and dry during the rainy season or on boat trips

Water bottle – lots of hotels and restaurants have water refills, save yourself some cash and save the environment some plastic by having your own reusable water bottle

Adapter – depending on where you come from you might need one of these to charge your electronics. I like to always carry an international one with me to be sure I can get my stuff charged

Power bank – if you’re out and about all day you don’t want your phone to die on you just as you’re about to snap a great photo!

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Final thoughts on my 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary

There you have it, the ultimate Thailand 2-week itinerary! Have you been to Thailand before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Thailand is a wonderful destination that is the perfect mix of beach life, city, nature, history and temples that showcase the beautiful Buddhist heritage of the country.

This is the ultimate way to make the most of your 14-day trip to Thailand. Don’t have 2 weeks to travel around Thailand? Check out my Thailand 10-day itinerary instead!

I hope you find this Thailand 2-week itinerary useful in planning your trip there!

Enjoyed reading my Thailand 2-week itinerary? Pin it!

Jan (Chimptrips)

Thursday 30th of January 2020

Hi Greta Thanks for this post. It's been really helpful for planning. We are going to be in Chiang Mai for about 5 days - do you think it is worth the long journey out to Chiang Rai, or would we be best to stay and make the most of what Chiang Mai has to offer? Jan (Chimptrips)

Monday 3rd of February 2020

Hi Jan, I would definitely go to Chiang Rai! The journey is quite long but the temples are really incredible! And they're very unique as well, the white and blue temples felt very different from all the others we had seen in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Also the night street food market is great, I had the best mango sticky rice there!

The Perfect 1, 2 and 3 Week Thailand Itinerary

• Last Updated: January 20, 2024

How to make the most of your Thailand itinerary, whether you have 1 week, 2 weeks or 3 weeks, written by an expert!

Thailand is an incredibly diverse country in Southeast Asia that can be explored in any sort of time frame.

But of course, the longer you have to visit Thailand, the better.

From cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai in the north to stunning islands like Koh Phi Phi in the south, any trip to Thailand could be jam-packed.

But having more time to explore means you aren’t rushing around, constantly hopping on flights and buses, and you have more time to stay in one spot and soak it all in before moving on.

Thankfully, Thailand is pretty small, very affordable, and easy to get around.

So if you have one week, two weeks, three weeks, or more, you can easily see different parts of the country without sacrificing too much time and money on travelling around.

You can explore both northern Thailand and the islands of the south easily in just one week, though of course, you can see more exciting things in two or three weeks.

Budget airlines make it very cheap and easy to fly around Thailand, and flights are often only an hour or two.

So even in just one week, you can explore the culture and cuisine of the mainland before jumping on a quick flight down to the islands for some swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.

In this article, you’ll find three samples for a possible Thailand itinerary.

Of course, these can be modified depending on what you want to see and how much time you actually have.

For example, you could spend all of your time hopping around the islands if you want, or you could spend all of your time up in the mountains and cities of the mainland if you’re not much of a beach person.

You could even spend your entire Thailand trip in one place, or you might feel intrigued to visit places not mentioned in these itineraries.

This article serves more as a guide for those who are visiting Thailand for the first time and are unsure of what they want.

These itineraries will combine a bit of culture in the mainland with a bit of beach time in the islands, so travellers can get a taste of the different parts of Thailand.

Make sure you get your travel insurance before you embark on your Thailand trip. It is pretty much essential.

Table of Contents

2 Days in Chiang Mai

2 days in phuket, 1 day in koh phi phi, 2 days in bangkok, 3 days in chiang mai, the white temple (wat rong khun), the blue temple (wat rong suea ten), 2 days in koh lanta, 2 days in ao nang, octave rooftop bar, scarlett rooftop bar, red sky rooftop bar, 4 days in chiang mai, 2 days in pai, 2 days in chiang rai, 2 days in khao sok national park, 1 day spent travelling from khao sok national park to koh samui., 3 days in koh samui, 7-day thailand itinerary.

This Thailand itinerary is for those who have one week in this beautiful corner of Southeast Asia.

Though a week goes by quickly, it is definitely enough time to dabble in the culture and natural beauty of Thailand.

You’ll most likely fly in and out of Bangkok for any Thailand trip, as this is where most international flights go.

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to the best places to visit in Thailand . You’ll find all these destinations in our Thailand itinerary in there.

As the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is crazy and crowded but absolutely packed with culture and things to do.

No Thailand itinerary would be complete without at least 2 days in Bangkok .

Some fun activities you can fill your days with include tasting street food on Khao San Road , checking out the massive government buildings in the Dusit District , taking a riverboat tour along the Chao Phraya River , and exploring the local temples.

Here are some notable temples to visit in Bangkok during your Thailand trip.

Wat Pho temple is famous for its giant reclining Buddha.

• Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang
• Hours: 8 am to 6 pm
• Cost: 200 Baht

Located in a scenic spot right on the river bank, this temple has a mix of Buddhist and Hindu influences.

• Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Bangkok Yai
• Cost: 100 Baht

This temple has a massive golden pagoda and is located on top of a man-made hill known as the Golden Mountain

• Location: 344 Boriphat Rd, off Ratchadamnoen Klang
• Hours: 9 am to 7 pm
• Cost: 50 Baht

Probably the most beautiful landmark in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, a huge property filled with glittering temples, incredible statues, towering pagodas, and overall fascinating architecture.

Located inside the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaew , one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and home to the Emerald Buddha.

Built in only 1782, the Grand Palace is a true work of art, so travellers should brave the crowds to check out this famous attraction.

• Grand Palace Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang
• Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
• Cost: 500 Baht

After two days of exploring the highlights of Bangkok like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, fly north to Chiang Mai.

READ MORE: 10 awesome things to do while travelling in Bangkok

Chiang Mai is a bit more relaxed than Bangkok, but there are still plenty of things to do.

This city in northern Thailand has over 300 Buddhist temples and is surrounded by lush jungles.

You can take a Thai cooking class, get a Thai massage, or watch a Muay Thai Boxing match to immerse yourself in the culture of Chiang Mai.

Make sure you taste a traditional Khao Soi, which is a creamy curry and egg noodle dish famous in northern Thailand.

Khao Soi Khun Yai in a cheap and authentic local restaurant in Chiang Mai where you can try a delicious Khao Soi.

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay in Chiang Mai, check out the Floral Hotel at Thapae Gate .

Located right in the Old City and close to all Chiang Mai’s attractions this gorgeous hotel has comfortable rooms, a nice swimming pool, and only costs between 50 and 70 USD per night.

For exactly what there is to see and do there, check out our list of what to do in Chiang Mai .

Once you’re finished with your time in the city, fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket.

After arriving at the Phuket airport on the north of the island, catch a taxi down to the beautiful white sands of Karon Beach.

All-Star Guesthouse is a great place to stay near Karon Beach, as it is a small, cozy, family-run place that is centrally located and very affordable.

For more accommodation options in Phuket, check out this article on all the best places to stay in Phuket for every budget.

Here’s a more detailed article we wrote on how to make the most of your Phuket itinerary .

During your two days in Phuket, you can visit the Big Buddha, go sightseeing in Phuket Old Town, go parasailing at Patong Beach, and watch the sunset from one of the island’s many viewpoints.

Head over to Rassada Pier to take the ferry to Koh Phi Phi, a gem of any Thailand trip.

READ MORE: Add these to your list of things to do in Phuket .

For the last day in your 7 day Thailand itinerary, soak in the picturesque views at Koh Phi Phi.

Koh Phi Phi is actually a chain of three tiny islands, though only one of them, Phi Phi Don , is inhabited.

On Phi Phi Don you can find lots of cheap backpacker hostels, bars, clubs, clothing stores, and souvenir shops.

Make sure you save time for sunbathing next to the turquoise waters of Loh Dalam Bay, and for hiking up to the viewpoint that looks over the whole island.

Koh Phi Phi doesn’t have an airport, so you can either take the ferry back to Phuket and fly out of there, or take the ferry to Krabi on the mainland and fly out of there.

2 Week Thailand Itinerary

This 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary is great for those who can’t take loads of time off work but still want to get a good feel for the country.

Start your 2 weeks in Thailand in Bangkok. If you’ve seen enough during your first day in Bangkok, you can switch things up by taking a day trip out of the city.

The best day trip from Bangkok is visiting Ayutthaya , the former capital of the Siamese Empire.

This ancient city is about 85 km north of Bangkok and was founded in the 14th century.

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of old but well-preserved temples, monuments, and national parks.

Next on the agenda for 2 weeks in Thailand, fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

READ MORE: 12 awesome things to do while travelling in Bangkok

No 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary is complete without stopping in Chiang Mai.

If you’d like to make a day trip for one of your 3 days in Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is a great place to go nearby.

Located about 70 km away from Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is a massive green space filled with temples, local villages, gardens, hiking trails, waterfalls, and lots of peaceful forests.

You can take a songtaew to reach the park from Chiang Mai, which is a red pick-up truck that serves as a collective taxi.

Try and find other travellers to share the ride with you so the overall price becomes cheaper!

Another option is visiting Elephant Nature Park , an elephant rescue sanctuary near Chiang Mai. If you are tempted to see elephants on your Thailand trip, just remember to visit somewhere ethical that protects the animals and forbids riding. Elephant Nature Park is a great place to visit elephants ethically!

Check out this Chiang Mai 3 Day Itinerary for more inspiration on things to do in this charming northern Thai city.

Chiang Rai is next on your 2 weeks in Thailand trip. Take a minibus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. We recommend booking this on the 12go.asia website .

Chiang Rai is a quiet and beautiful city in the north of Thailand. If you have time to visit it on your Thailand trip, definitely do so!

Stroll through the small town centre and chat with friendly locals, or drive up to the northernmost tip of Thailand which is connected to Myanmar by a bridge.

The breathtaking temples are definitely the highlights of Chiang Rai. Make sure you check them out during your 2 weeks in Thailand.

Probably the most visited temple in Chiang Rai, the unique decoration and detail of this whitewashed temple will blow your mind.

• Location: 1 Phahonyothin Rd

Slathered in deep blue colours and adorned with Buddhist relics, the Blue Temple is a feast for the eyes.

• Location: 306 Maekok Rd
• Hours: 7 am to 8 pm

If you’re travelling on a budget, Chiang Rai has lots of really nice and affordable accommodation options.

Connect Hostel has high ratings from travellers and costs only 8-9 USD per night for a dorm room or 37 USD per night for a private room.

Fly from Chiang Rai to Phuket so you can enjoy some of the island destinations during 2 weeks in Thailand!

READ MORE: Learn all about these incredible things to do in Chiang Rai .

Because Phuket is such a mountainous island, there are lots of hilltop restaurants with open views where you can look over the beautiful scenery while you dine.

Head to Heaven Restaurant & Bar for a view over Kata Noi Beach, the Palace Restaurant and Sky Lounge for a view over Patong Beach, or Tung Ka Café for a view over Phuket Town.

Or take a day trip to the James Bond Island, located in Phanga Nga Bay.

Next on your 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary, take the ferry from Phuket’s Rassada Pier down to Koh Lanta.

Koh Lanta is an island in the Andaman Sea that is far less touristy than some of Thailand’s other islands.

Snorkelling, swimming, kayaking, diving and sunbathing are all incredible here as there are few crowds to distract from the tropical scenery.

Explore the natural phenomenon of the Emerald Cave, stroll through the tiny and rustic Old Town, or go hiking in the Mu Ko Lanta National Park.

A gorgeous place to stay in Koh Lanta during 2 weeks in Thailand is the Crown Lanta Resort and Spa (has recently been renamed to Avani Plus Koh Lanta Krabi Resort).

Read the full, NOMADasaurus detailed review of this luxury hotel here .

Take the ferry from Koh Lanta to Ao Nang to finish off 2 weeks in Thailand.

Ao Nang is relaxing and quaint, but still leaves travellers awestruck with its towering limestone cliffs and postcard-worthy beaches.

Railay Beach is the most popular attraction here, and you can hop on a cheap long tail boat from Ao Nang Beach to reach this little cove of cliffs and turquoise water.

Ao Nang is ideal for rock climbing enthusiasts, as the abundance of massive, jagged rocks makes for challenging but rewarding climbing spots.

You can also hike Hang Mak Mountain or go zip lining over the jungle for a bit of excitement.

Any 2 week Thailand itinerary must include a day of snorkelling or diving.

Ao Nang is an amazing place for snorkelling or diving as the water is warm and clean and there is lots of wildlife thriving in the area.

After an action-packed 2 days in Ao Nang and 2 weeks in Thailand fly from Krabi back to Bangkok to catch your departing international flight.

READ MORE: Add these to your list of things to do in Ao Nang .

3 Week Thailand Itinerary

A 3 week Thailand itinerary is great for those who really want to explore the stunning country Thailand.

Aside from the big cities, you’ll get to visit small towns, national parks, and islands in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. A 3 week itinerary is ideal!

3 Days in Bangkok

Between checking out the tourist attractions and taking a day trip to Ayutthaya, you’ll have an incredible 3 days in Thailand’s capital city.

An awesome activity in Bangkok is visiting a rooftop bar in a giant skyscraper, with a panoramic view of the city.

Outside of the Old Town, Bangkok is super modern and cosmopolitan, so it can be fun to treat yourself to a nice cocktail or meal overlooking the metropolis.

Keep in mind that most rooftop bars are classy and have a dress code, so try to dress fancier than usual.

Here are some of the best rooftop bars in Bangkok, all of which sell high-quality food and beverages and have a crazy view of the city sprawled below.

• Location: 45th floor, Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, 2 Ban Kluai Nuea Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
• Hours: 5 pm to 1:30 am
• Location: 37th floor, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd, Khwaeng Suriya Wong, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500
• Hours: 5 pm to 12 am
• Location: 55th floor, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
• Hours: 5 pm to 1 am

For additional things to do in Bangkok, consider checking out the Airplane Graveyard or celebrating Songkran , the Buddhist New Year, in the city.

Next on your 3 week itinerary, fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

With an extra day in Chiang Mai, you have time to take another day trip out of the city to explore the surrounding nature.

One of the coolest places to visit near Chiang Mai is the Sticky Waterfall, or “Bua Tong Waterfall” located in the Jedsee Fountain Forest Park.

Here you can climb the vertical waterfall using just your hands and feet because the rocks are coated with rough mineral deposits so they aren’t slippery. It’s one of the most amazing day trips from Chiang Mai.

Spend a few hours here swimming, splashing, climbing, and having a picnic (there aren’t any shops in this remote area near Chiang Mai so bring your own food and drinks!).

After your 4 days in Chiang Mai, take a minibus to Pai.

Pai is a relaxing jungle paradise where backpackers love to chill out and spend quality time with nature.

There are so many natural wonders to explore near Pai, such as the Pambok Waterfall, the Tham Lod Caves full of stalactites and stalagmites, the soothing Tha Pai Hot Springs, and the massive Pai Canyon.

Rent a scooter for a couple of days and enjoy the freedom of zooming through the jungle, and stroll through the local walking street market at night for some cheap local street food.

Spend your two nights in Pai at one of the local backpacker hostels.

Tribal Pai Backpackers is a great choice for accommodation because it is social and fun, but a bit less crazy than a party hostel.

A dorm here costs as little as 4 USD per night, and private rooms are about 33 USD per night. Accommodation can be super cheap when you visit Thailand!

Catch a minibus from Pai to Chiang Rai .

READ MORE: Add these to your list of things to do in Pai .

If you haven’t yet taken a cooking class in Thailand, Chiang Rai is a great place to do it.

You can book a full-day cooking class that starts with a tour of the local market to pick up fresh ingredients.

Then you can learn all about the rich flavours and simple techniques of Thai cuisine and eat all the delicious food you cook.

This is a great insight into the culture of Thailand, so you should definitely try and squeeze a cooking class into a 3 week Thailand itinerary.

Fly from Chiang Rai to Phuket.

After spending a decent amount of time soaking in the sun on Phuket’s pristine beaches, entertain yourself by watching a famous ladyboy cabaret show.

A ladyboy performance is a must-see when you visit Thailand.

Phuket’s Simon Cabaret was established in 1991, and now hosts some of the best cabarets in the country.

Ladyboy cabarets consist of drag queens wearing fantastic costumes and putting on a show full of dancing, acting, lip-syncing, sometimes real singing, and a whole lot of energy and pizazz.

Take the ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang .

In addition to the outdoor activities mentioned in the 2 week Thailand itinerary, you can try to explore a little more of the islands surrounding Ao Nang by doing an island hopping tour.

A 3 week Thailand itinerary still can’t cover all of the country’s stunning islands, so a guided day tour by speedboat is a great way to pack lots of cool places into a short time.

On a day tour, you’ll see gorgeous beaches, huge cliffs, snorkelling sights, and just a lot of mind-blowing natural beauty.

Then, add another epic place to your 3 week itinerary and take a shuttle from Ao Nang to Khao Sok National Park .

Khao Sok National Park is an oasis of serenity and scenery that looks like it came out of a fairy tale. It’s often a highlight for those who visit Thailand.

Dense jungle, hanging vines, limestone cliffs, caves, rivers, lakes, animals and insects are just a few of the things you’ll find here.

You can go hiking and kayaking, or take a boat tour through the park, or just relax and soak in the serenity from your lakeside wooden bungalow.

Cheow Lan Lake is the most beautiful area to stay in, but you can also stay in the Khao Son Riverside if you don’t want to be so deep in the jungle.

Travelling from Khao Sok National Park over to Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand can be done by some combination of shuttle and minibus, but you’ll have to dedicate one full day to the trip.

The transport prices are usually very cheap, but it will take quite a while since you have to cross the Malay Peninsula.

After reaching the ferry port on the eastern side of the peninsula, just hop on a ferry and make your way to Koh Samui!

Check out this website for planning your trip.

Spend the last 3 days of your 3 week Thailand itinerary relaxing on the white sands of Koh Samui .

Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Choeng Mon Beach are the three most popular beaches on Koh Samui and they all offer beautiful scenery and turquoise water for swimming.

Koh Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand, so there is plenty to do here in addition to just being a beach bum.

Head to the north of the island to check out the Big Buddha and the night markets, including Fisherman’s Village Street Market, held every Friday from 5 pm to 11 pm.

Take a fruit carving class or visit the Secret Buddha Garden, full of mysterious statues and peaceful forest.

Definitely spend one of your days in Koh Samui taking a day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park.

This protected area consists of 42 little islands, and you can only visit by government approved tour boat.

There are lots of affordable day tours that can bring you into the park and take you hiking, snorkelling, kayaking, and exploring throughout the diverse and impressive national marine park.

Other things to do in Koh Samui include visiting Koh Tao for snorkeling or Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party. Both Koh Tao and Koh Phangan can be visited as day trips via local boat.

If you have even more than 3 weeks in Thailand, you can continue exploring Koh Tao and Koh Phangan for even longer, as there are plenty of fun things to do here.

If your Thailand trip is coming to a close after Koh Samui, fly back to Bangkok to catch your departing international flight.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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17 EPIC Things to Do in Pai, Thailand [2024 Guide]

The 23 Best Things to Do in Phuket

The 22 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand

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I’m absolutely hooked on your Thailand itinerary! Week 1’s cultural immersion, Week 2’s adrenaline-packed activities, and Week 3’s idyllic relaxation—what a well-rounded adventure. Your blog is a goldmine for anyone planning a trip. I’ll be sure to share this valuable resource with my fellow travel enthusiasts!

This trip blog truly captures the essence of wanderlust and adventure. The stories shared here evoke a sense of curiosity and make me yearn to explore the world. It’s the perfect escape for those moments when you can’t physically travel but still want to be transported to new horizons.

Wonderful itinerary! Thanks for the tips!

I’ve been to Thailand several times, and I loved all of these places. I have yet to visit Khao Sok — it is on my list.

Thank you for stopping by. Definitely check Koh Sok out next time you are in Thailand. 🙂

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Two Weeks in Thailand: A Complete 14-Day Thailand Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Thailand and wondering how to make the most of your time? Look no further! In this Thailand Itinerary, we’ll share two-weeks worth of adventure, showcasing what Thailand offers best. 

Page Contents

A Complete 14-Day Thailand Itinerary

From bustling cities to idyllic beaches and lush forests, Thailand is a country that has something for everyone. That’s why our itinerary includes stops in Phuket, Phi Phi, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan, allowing you to see a wide range of landscapes and cultures.

So make sure to pack your bags and bring your favorite travel camera , ready to experience this incredible destination’s beauty and diversity. Follow along as we take you on a journey through some of Thailand’s top sights and attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’re sure to find hidden gems or something new and exciting to discover in this fantastic country.

If you’re planning a two-week trip to Thailand, you may wonder whether it’s worth bringing a travel camera . While smartphones like the Huawei P30 Pro have come a long way in terms of camera quality, a dedicated camera like the Sony A7IV camera or a Fujifilm x100f can still offer a number of advantages.

4 days in Phuket itinerary

Phuket is a beautiful island destination in Thailand that is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and kickbox sports gyms. As a result, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Phuket. 

Here’s a four-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in this amazing destination:

Phuket, Thailand itinerary, Day 1:

• Start your day with a visit to Cafe del Mar , a stylish beach club that’s known for its amazing views and laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch while soaking up the sun and listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
• After breakfast, head to Monkey Hill , a popular spot for seeing the island’s famous macaque monkeys up close. Be sure to bring some snacks to feed the monkeys, but be careful not to get too close, as they can be aggressive.
• In the evening, head to Bangla Road , the heart of Phuket’s vibrant nightlife scene. Here you’ll find a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as street performers and vendors.

Phuket, Thailand itinerary, Day 2:

• On your second day, head to Freedom Beach , one of Phuket’s most beautiful and secluded beaches. The beach is only accessible by boat, so be sure to book a tour or hire a longtail boat to take you there. Spend the day relaxing on the beach and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can be extreme in Phuket.
• Head to Kata Rocks Beach Club for a stylish and sophisticated dining experience in the evening. The club offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea , and the menu features a mix of international and local cuisine.

Phuket, Thailand itinerary, Day 3:

• Today, visit the Big Buddha Temple , one of Phuket’s most famous and iconic landmarks. The temple is home to a giant statue of the Buddha, which stands 45 meters tall and is visible from many parts of the island.
• After exploring the temple, head to the Green Elephant Sanctuary park , where you can learn about and interact with rescued elephants. The park offers a range of educational programs and activities, and it’s a great way to support conservation efforts in Thailand.
• In the evening, head back to Bangla Road for another round of nightlife and entertainment. Be sure to try some of the local Thai cuisines , including dishes like pad Thai and green curry.

Phuket, Thailand itinerary, Day 4:

• On your final day in Phuket, take some time to relax and unwind. Head to a local spa for a traditional Thai massage, or spend the day lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun.
• In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Phuket’s many restaurants. The island has a wide range of culinary options, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants, so you’re sure to find something to suit your taste and budget.

3 days in Phi Pho itinerary

Phi Phi is a small island located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, which are popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Phi Phi is also known for its beautiful rock formations, which can be seen from the water or explored by boat. 

The island is home to several small villages and resorts, as well as many restaurants and bars. In addition to its natural beauty, Phi Phi is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with several lively bars and clubs located along the beach. The island is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relaxing beach vacation, as well as those who enjoy outdoor activities and nightlife.

Here’s a three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time on the island:

Phi Pho, Thailand itinerary, Day 1:

• Start your day by renting a kayak and exploring the island’s many hidden coves and beaches. One of the most popular spots to visit is Monkey Beach , where you can see the island’s famous macaque monkeys up close.
• In the evening, head to the fire shows at Loh Dalum Beach . Here you’ll find a wide range of street performers and vendors and amazing fire shows that are sure to impress.
• After the fire shows, head to one of Phi Phi’s many beach clubs for a night of music and dancing. The island is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re into EDM, hip-hop, or live bands.

Phi Pho, Thailand itinerary, Day 2:

• Today, head out for a scuba dive to explore the underwater world of Phi Phi. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life, and it’s a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.
• After diving, head back to the beach for some relaxation and sunbathing. Phi Phi has some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, and there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a lively party scene.
• In the evening, head to one of the many beach parties on the island. Phi Phi is known for its lively nightlife, and there are always plenty of parties and events to choose from, whether you’re into live music, DJ sets, or fire shows.

Phi Pho, Thailand itinerary, Day 3:

• On your final day in Phi Phi, Start your day with a visit to Maya Ba y, the iconic location featured in the movie The Beach (Staring Leonardo DiCaprio) . The bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful white sandy beaches, and it’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• After your snorkeling adventure, head to the secret beach at pp Princess . This hidden gem is only accessible by boat and offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere with beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters.
• In the evening, head to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for sunset. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea, and it’s a popular spot for photography and watching the sunset.

Overall, this three-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Phi Phi. From exploring the island’s stunning natural beauty to enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this amazing destination. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty and diversity of Phi Phi.

3 days in Koh Samui itinerary

Koh Samui is a popular island destination in Thailand known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and coconut groves. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and relaxed pace of life. The island is also home to several luxurious resorts, as well as a variety of water sports activities, including snorkeling, diving, and kiteboarding.

Here’s a three-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time on the island:

Koh Samui, Thailand itinerary, Day 1:

• Start your day with a visit to Vikasa Yoga , a popular yoga studio that offers classes for all levels. The studio is located in a beautiful and peaceful setting, and it’s a great way to start your day with some mindfulness and relaxation.
• After your yoga class, head to the Lama Viewpoint , which offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The viewpoint is a popular spot for photography, and it’s a great place to enjoy the beauty of Koh Samui.
• In the afternoon, visit the Wat Phra Vai Temple , a beautiful and historic Buddhist temple located in the island’s capital city of Nathon . The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate details, and it’s a great place to learn about Buddhist culture and history.

Koh Samui, Thailand itinerary, Day 2:

• Today, explore Bophut Fishing Village , a charming and picturesque village located on the island’s north coast. The village is known for its laid-back atmosphere and traditional way of life, and it’s a great place to experience local culture and history.
• After exploring the village, head to the Namuang Waterfall , one of the island’s most beautiful and popular natural attractions. The waterfall is located in the Namuang Safari Park , and it’s a great spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty of Koh Samui.
• In the evening, head to the Samui Elephant Sanctuary , a unique and ethical sanctuary for rescued elephants. The sanctuary offers a range of educational programs and activities, and it’s a great way to support conservation efforts and learn about these amazing animals.

Koh Samui, Thailand itinerary, Day 3:

• On your final day in Koh Samui, head to Sunset Lipa Noi Beach for some relaxation and sunbathing. The beach is known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters, and it’s a great spot for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
• In the afternoon, visit some of the island’s other popular attractions, such as the Big Buddha Temple, the Na Muang Safari Park , or the Secret Buddha Garden .
• In the evening, head to Chaweng Beach , the island’s busiest and most vibrant beach area. Here you’ll find a wide range of restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as street performers and vendors.

2 days in Koh Tao itinerary

Koh Tao, known as “Turtle Island”, is a popular island for divers. It is home to several world-class diving sites that offer the opportunity to see a wide range of marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and a variety of colorful fish. In addition to diving, Koh Tao is also known for its beautiful beaches and water sports activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. 

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of Koh Tao, then this 2-day itinerary is for you. 

Koh Tao, Thailand itinerary, Day 1:

• After arriving on Koh Tao, start your day with a scuba diving adventure. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for divers of all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, consider taking a “Discover Scuba Diving”-course to learn the basics. If you’re more experienced, sign up for a guided dive to explore the underwater world.
• After diving, take a boat to Koh Nang Yuan , a small island just a short distance from Koh Tao. Here, you can hike to the top of the island for panoramic views of the surrounding area or lounge on the white sandy beaches.
• In the evening, go to Fishbowls Beach Bar for some live music and a laid-back atmosphere. This popular spot is known for its lively atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music as you take in the beauty of Koh Tao.

Koh Tao, Thailand itinerary, Day 2:

• Start your second day on Koh Tao with a Thai cooking class. This is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and pick up some new cooking skills. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes like pad Thai and green curry, and have the opportunity to sample your creations at the end of the class.
• After the cooking class, spend the afternoon exploring the island. Rent a motorbike or a bicycle and make your way around the island, stopping to take in the breathtaking views and visit the local shops and restaurants. You can also visit Mae Haad Pier , the island’s main hub, to see the local fishing boats and learn about the island’s history.
• In the evening, take a sunset cruise around the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see the beautiful sunset colors as you sail around Koh Tao. After the cruise, head back to your hotel and get a good night’s sleep, ready for your next adventure on this beautiful island.

2 days in Koh Phangan itinerary

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Koh Phangan, then this 2-day itinerary is for you.

Koh Phangan, Thailand itinerary, Day 1:

• After arriving at Koh Phangan, start your day by exploring the island’s natural beauty. Head to Apichada Viewpoint , located on the island’s north side, for panoramic views of the surrounding area. From here, you can see the lush forests, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful beaches that make Koh Phangan a top destination for nature lovers.
• Next, make your way to Paradise Waterfall , located in the island’s heart. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, surrounded by the beautiful jungle scenery.
• After exploring the waterfall, head to the night market to sample some of the local cuisines and browse the many stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, and other souvenirs.

Koh Phangan, Thailand itinerary, Day 2:

• Start your second day on Koh Phangan with a jungle safari. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the island’s lush forests and learn about the local flora and fauna. Your guide will take you to some of the island’s most beautiful spots, including Phasing Waterfall , where you can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• After the jungle safari, spend the afternoon relaxing on the beautiful Koh Graham Beach . Located on the island’s east side, this secluded spot is known for its clear waters and laid-back atmosphere. You can lounge on the white sandy beaches, take a dip in the sea, or visit the Koh Graham Beach Bar for a refreshing drink.
• In the evening, make your way to the famous Full Moon Party , held on the beach in Haad Rin . This legendary event attracts thousands of people from around the world, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and incredible music. Dance the night away and experience the unique culture of Koh Phangan.

After two weeks in Thailand, you’ll have experienced the best this beautiful country offers. From the bustling streets of Phuket to the stunning beaches of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, you’ll have had the opportunity to explore the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty of Thailand. 

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Thailand is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. We hope that this itinerary has provided you with some inspiration and ideas for your own trip to Thailand. Safe travels!

Safe for Later …

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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8 of Thailand's most amazing places to visit

Jun 15, 2024 • 9 min read

From historic cities like Ayutthaya to white-sand beaches, here are the best places to visit in Thailand © Westend61 / Getty Images

When people think of Thailand , they often think of relaxing on a  pristine beach  with a refreshing cold drink in their hand.

Although Thailand is indeed blessed when it comes to diversions of the sandy persuasion, this country of more than 513 sq km (198 sq miles) also boasts virgin forestland, picturesque mountains, lively nightlife, raucous markets and of course, cities with their own unique histories and cultures. Thailand is a multifaceted destination, appealing to everyone from the hedonistic foodie to the ascetic seeking enlightenment (and everyone in between).

Fly-and-flop aficionados will of course head to a tropical island , as do most first-timers to the country , dazzled by the variety of destinations peppering Thailand’s waters. Likewise, culture vultures are most suited to big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai , while nature enthusiasts will be best served by combing through the emerald-green mountains of the kingdom’s north and northeast or the jungles along Myanmar’s border. With decent railway infrastructure, buses, ferries, cars for hire and many airports, it's easy to get around : you just need to choose the places to visit in Thailand that best match your interests.

Best city for food and nightlife

Many travelers to Thailand land in Bangkok only to immediately transfer to another destination, missing out on a city that remains strangely underrated. After all, Bangkok is the perfect launching pad for day trips to the surrounding region , with floating markets and beaches to the south and popular national parks to the north. It's a great place to stay for a couple of days, at least, before heading to another part of Thailand.

With over 10 million residents, Bangkok is a sprawling megacity. But all it really takes to navigate Bangkok is a little advance preparation. The city’s more than 320,000 restaurants serve a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Ethiopian to Latvian, and its more than 500,000 street food vendors ensure that food is available anywhere in Bangkok 24 hours a day. In Bangkok, or Krung Thep Mahanakorn (the “City of Angels”), the world is your oyster … or chicken satay skewer, or bowl of soup noodles.

Bangkok's bars and clubs offer a surprisingly wide range of styles and drinks. Of the establishments on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list , four are in Bangkok. The city also has a penchant for speakeasy-type places, as well as Japanese-style bars (Japanese being one of Bangkok’s biggest expat communities). If a drink is what you’re after, you will not go thirsty – spring for Q&A Bar’s  Pinkish, a twist on the Negroni with rhubarb and grapefruit gin, the potent Old Fashioned jazzed up with turmeric at Vesper , or go classic with a good, crisp martini at Bamboo Bar .

Planning tip:  Bangkok’s bars and clubs are not permitted to be open all night – in fact, most close at the relatively early time of 1am.

2. Chiang Mai

Best City for Temples

Chiang Mai is a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains, caves and waterfalls, all of which could take at least three days of your trip. The former capital of the Northern Lanna empire, the Chiang Mai area also boasts more than 300 temples. Some, like Doi Suthep , are famous for their stunning viewpoints; others, like Wat Suan Dok , serve as the burial grounds for the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family. The charmingly weatherbeaten Wat Chedi Luang , founded in 1385, enjoys a convenient location smack dab in the middle of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh , home of the Lion Buddha, dazzles in the sunlight with its golden stupas. 

But there is plenty to experience besides temples. Northern Thai cuisine is unlike any other in Thailand, inspired as it is by Chinese elements and nearly 200 years under Burmese rule. Northern Thais also dress and dance in a distinctive manner, as well as speak their own dialect, called kum mueang . Its many outdoor markets, such as Talat Warorot and Talat Jing Jai, sell food, clothing and knick-knacks that make perfect souvenirs.

Planning tip: From late February to early April, Chiang Mai is usually inundated with smoke from farmers burning land in the mountains to plant their crops. Opt for the Thai “winter” of November to January or the rainy season .

3. The far north

Best region for hiking

Known as the Golden Triangle, the apex of Thailand’s far north – where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – has served as a destination for die-hard nature lovers for decades. Be it via motorcycle, mountain bike or simply walking, exploring this area yields not only striking natural beauty but also the chance to visit both Laos and Myanmar (if only, typically, for a short period of time). Once known as a major production spot for opium, the Golden Triangle is now where visitors come to cruise along the Mekong against a spectacular background, camp in moderate (for Thailand) weather, or visit an elephant camp (or all three!)

Sleepy Chiang Rai , the former capital of the Lanna dynasty, is only 9km (6 miles) south of the Golden Triangle, making it an ideal spot from which to trawl through the surrounding area. This city holds its own attractions as well, including the world-famous  Wat Rong Khun , or White Temple, and is worth exploring for a day in itself.

Planning tip: It's a 1.5-hour trip from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle. Aside from renting a car, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.

Best island for a blend of cultures

It is the biggest island in Thailand, but  Phuket hosts an entirely different culture from the rest of the country: a mix of Hokkien Chinese, Thai and Malaysian elements. Hokkien-style fried noodles, o-aew (a jelly made from plant seeds), o-tao (an oyster omelet topped with pork rinds) and moo hong (braised pork belly stew) are all dishes that originated in Phuket and are difficult to find even in the rest of Thailand. Little wonder, then, why Phuket is one of Thailand’s most-visited destinations.

Phuket’s architecture is also unique – evidence of its past when it was ruled by the Portuguese. Sino-Portuguese shophouses, with their distinctive colors, tiles and fusion of both Western and Eastern styles, line the streets of the Old Town and are reminiscent of the shophouses in Penang and Singapore. With its top-tier beaches and Old Town culture, Phuket is perfect for both first-timers and couples and can easily take up a week of your visit.

Planning tip: September to October is Phuket’s rainy season, so try to avoid the island during this time. There are plenty of other great destinations beyond Phuket to consider visiting too.

5. The Upper Gulf

Best region for floating markets

The region south of Bangkok is easily reached from the capital, taking up a mere hour or so of driving (depending on traffic). Here is where you will find Thailand’s most famous floating markets, including Damnoen Saduak (at its busiest in the early morning) and Amphawa (more popular with locals and with a more nightlife-y vibe).

The famous Maeklong Railway Market can also be found here, where vendors pull up part of their stalls to allow a train to (slowly) pass six times a day. In Bang Kachao , called "the green lung of Bangkok" for its proximity to the capital, you can hire a bicycle to roll through the wilderness on concrete passageways, passing over canals hiding monitor lizards and reaching the island’s own floating market, Talat Nam Bang Nam Phueng. You can even take a day trip from Bangkok to the beach for sea breezes and fresh seafood ( Pattaya is only 2 hours away by car or bus, after all).

Planning tip: Besides driving, you can take a taxi, bus and train to sites such as Damnoen Saduak and Ampawa, where you can also stay overnight along the water.

6. Khao Yai National Park

Best for wildlife

A 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai has been a popular weekend retreat for nature-loving Bangkokians for decades. As a result, the area around the national park – Thailand’s third largest – is generously studded with houses, hotels, restaurants, shops and even amusement parks. Not surprisingly, it is an ideal place to bring the whole family.

The top attraction, of course, is the 2166 sq km (836 sq miles) that comprise Thailand’s most-visited national park. Blessed with a wealth of hiking trails for everyone from a beginner to an experienced trekker, cooling waterfalls and an impressive range of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, bears and elephants, Khao Yai can provide hours of entertainment for people of any age. Park rangers can be hired to help spot animals by guiding visitors to the places where you're most likely to see them, or to direct them to the best viewpoints or waterfalls nearby.

Planning tip: You should hire a guide ahead of time if you are going wildlife spotting. A park ranger can be found through the park’s website .

7. Ko Samui

Best island for water sports

If you were to picture the ideal tropical island with soft beaches and turquoise water, chances are you would be picturing Ko Samui . Although not as popular as Phuket, Thailand’s second-largest island still lures more than 2 million visitors a year, making it one of the most-visited islands in the country.

Besides its many charming beaches, Samui also hosts Ang Thong National Park , an archipelago of islands perfect for snorkeling and sea kayaking, Na Muang waterfalls for casual swimming, snorkelers' favorite Silver Beach, and countless spots for scuba diving. On-land attractions are also abundant, including fishing villages, golf courses and a surprising number of wellness retreats.

Planning tip: Samui has a surprisingly long “dry” season from December to August when chances of rain are minimal.

8. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Best destinations for history buffs

The historic city of Ayutthaya  served as Siam’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries before it was ransacked by the Burmese. The remnants of that city have since been established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect fodder for scrambling and exploring. Bike rentals on the edge of the historical park turn Ayutthaya into an even easier place to navigate, making for a pleasant morning of culture/exercise under a canopy of green leaves.

Sukhothai , Siam’s first capital, was built on a smaller scale and also allows bike rentals, making it an ideal hands-on history lesson for families with smaller children. Also a World Heritage site, Sukhothai’s towers and Buddha statues are less visited than its younger sister down south, making it more pleasant for people who prefer to avoid large crowds.

Planning tip: Ayutthaya can be accessed by river boat, which takes up to an hour from Bangkok (less time than driving there). Get to Sukhothai by plane, train and bus or car. 

This article was first published Sep 5, 2021 and updated Jun 15, 2024.

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

Thailand is the number one tourist location in South East Asia, and it is easy to see why. Best known for its breath-taking beaches , its stunning temples and the modern urban sprawl that is Bangkok , it is a country where getting bored is just not an option.

From the moment you step of the plane to the time you leave you will be surrounded by some of the friendliest, down to earth and genuine people that you could want to meet. It’s easy to see why Thailand is often called the ‘Land of Smiles’.

The problem for any visitor to Thailand is narrowing down your list of things to do, there are countless attractions and hot spots I could put on this list but I narrowed it down to the top 25 things to do in Thailand :

1. Visit the Grand Palace

Set in the heart of Bangkok this is probably the most famous attraction there is. For 150 years the palace was home to the king, his court, and the entire government of Thailand as well as the Royal Mint. With an area of 218,400 sq. meters there is so much to see and do, you will not be disappointed. In 1782 huge walls were built around the palace and offices to make it the attraction it is today, please note that a strict dress code is in place at the palace so you will need to dress in appropriate clothing or entry will be refused.

3. Have a Thai Massage

Thai massages are famous the world over, the style of massage is unique as it stretches your body as well as working on your bodies pressure points. The whole experience will leave you feeling invigorated and balanced. Every small town and city is guaranteed to have many massage parlors and the prices are very cheap compared to what you would pay back home.

4. Visit The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

There are several floating markets in Thailand but this one is the biggest and most famous, it is huge! There are boats everywhere going up and down the canals selling all sorts of foods and fruits. A visit to this market will give you a real insight into how things were many years ago. For those who love to take photos the narrow canals and small wooden stilt houses are sure to give you countless opportunities. The market is situated about 100km outside of Bangkok but it is well worth the traveling time.

5. Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)

No trip to Bangkok could be complete without taking a trip to Nana, the main road that runs through Bangkok is called Sukhumvit road and when you get to Soi 4 you have arrived at a place you do not want to miss. Nana Plaza is rumored to be the largest sex complex in the world, full of gogo bars and seductive girls you are guaranteed to have an interesting night.

Take a seat at any of various bars in the Plaza and just sit back and watch the girls apply their trade to many visiting tourists.

6. Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower

Situated in the heart of Bangkok is a humongous abandoned skyscraper known as the ‘Sathorn Unique’ it was being built during the late nineties but due to the global financial crisis the building was never completed. This is not an official tourist attraction but a small payment to the security guards at the bottom will ensure you are allowed access. Not one for the faint hearted the 49 stories provide a difficult climb but one that offers some of the most breath taking views of Bangkok from the top. Thai people believe the tower to be haunted and as you climb you way up you might just see why.

7. Take a trip to Koh Phi Phi

Shooting to fame after the Leonardo DiCaprio classic ‘The Beach’ as well as appearing in James Bond. Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island situated in the province of Krabi , this island is a must visit on any trip to Thailand. After visiting this staggeringly beautiful island no beach will ever feel as beautiful. The island has no roads so you will have to do a fair amount of walking but with everything happening between the two main beaches you will never be far from the hive of activity.

8. Visit a Ping Pong Show

If you have already been to Nana Plaza and watched the ladies at work there then the next part of your trip is surely to a ping pong show, famed throughout the world for the unique experience it brings, you must not give it a miss. Various ladies will entertain you on stage by putting objects inside them before using their pelvic muscles to shoot the objects into cups. Although ping pong balls are the most iconic objects the ladies have also been known to use, candles, darts, chopsticks and even razor blades.

9. Drive Like a Local

Traveling by scooter is hugely popular, a vast majority of the locals do it and nearly all of the tourists. It is an experience that you will not want to miss out on. At times it can appear as though there are no laws on the road and it is every man (or woman) for themselves. It can be an awful lot of fun weaving in and out of the traffic whilst you explore places you would never venture on foot. Just remember to keep your wits about you at all times and to expect the unexpected.

• 10.  Eat Street Food

Thailand is home to many different kinds of street food and every street in every city will have various different stalls selling their wares. From Pad Thai to Som Tam (papaya salad) to grilled meats it is all available at any time of the day. Thai’s rarely cook at home as the cost of eating out is so low compared to cooking at home, when looking for a food stall to eat at a good choice is to follow the locals to see where they are eating.

11. Have a Water Fight During Songkran

Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, it is celebrated each year in April across the entire country and runs from the 13th to the 15th, water is traditionally sprinkled throughout the festival as it is believed it will wash away your bad luck and sins. These days things have changed a little and huge water fights tend to break out bringing entire cities to a standstill, with many businesses closing for the entire duration. Where ever you are in the country during this time of the year prepare for a soaking as there is no escaping the party.

• 12.  Visit Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park was the first national park to be established in Thailand and is the third largest in the country. Covering an area of 2,168 square kilometers it is a huge site to visit. The park comprises of rain forests as well as grasslands which all adds up to the large number of animals you can see. There are an estimated 300 species of birds in the park as well as bears, elephants, deer’s, gibbons and macaques. There are a couple of waterfalls in the park which are well worth a visit as well and are easily accessible by car.

• 13.  Take a Trip to Wat Arun

Thailand is home to over 31,000 Buddhist temples , this particular temple Wat Arun is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. The temple sits on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most stunning sites you can see. The tower is 79 meters tall and has been covered in colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles making for a mesmerizing sight. When you come to the entrance of the temple you will see a pair of mythical giants that are said to guard the temple.

• 14.  Visit Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

During the day the Chang Klan Road is just an ordinary road in Chiang Mai , full of tourists, shops, guest houses and Tuk Tuk drivers, but at night a transformation takes place. From dusk until midnight hundreds of stall holders line the 1km stretch of road and turn the area into a shopper’s paradise. Everything is for sale including various different designer products (mainly fake,) you are expected to barter with the street sellers for whatever you choose to buy which all adds to the fun of the Bazaar. It does not matter what the weather is like or what day of the year you choose the market will always be open.

• 15.  Go to a Full Moon Party

Legend has it that a group of tourists realized one day that the most beautiful view of the full moon was from the beach of Koh Phangan so they decided to hold a party. From that day on it became an institution. Today up to 30,000 revelers travel to the beaches of Koh Phangan to celebrate every full moon with a party. The parties are a riot of color, music and nonstop drinking that seems to last forever. When you need to take a break from the dancing you can take a rest in one of the surrounding bars or go for a swim in the warm Gulf of Thailand.

• 16.  Visit Phang Nga Bay

Whilst visiting Phuket you must visit Phang Nga Bay, the bay houses in the region of 40 small islands that come straight out of the calm sea. There are so many caves, mangroves and lagoons to visit whilst you are here that you will never have enough time to see everything. The sea in this area is very quiet and the bay by its natural design is protected from many of the elements during the monsoon season meaning there is never a bad time to go. The best way to see as much as you can is to go with a local Thai tourist guide who will be able to point out the things you do not want to miss.

• 17.  Go to Doi Suthep

Situated 12km outside of Chiang Mai , Doi Suthep is a mountain that stands at over 5400 feet. The reason most people travel to Doi Suthep is to see two things, firstly the view over all of Chiang Mai which is staggering and worth the journey on its own, but also to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which is a temple dating back to the 13th century. At the temple there is a large white elephant shrine which has a whole story about it which you can learn about whilst at the temple. There are many steps to climb on the mountain as well as the opportunity to take a tram, expect to spend a whole day on the mountain checking out the various things to see.

• 18.  Visit Railay Beach

Railay beach is situated in the south of Thailand in Krabi , it is not accessible by traveling through the mainland as the huge limestone cliffs cut it off from society. The only way to get there is to get a boat. The stunning beaches will relax you like no other, there is not a single car here as there are no roads to drive on so it will just be you, your guests, beautiful white sand and the other relaxed tourists. If you are into rock climbing this is the place to be with some of the best instructors in Thailand plying their trade here. Your evenings can be spent in the quiet beach bars enjoying a few romantic drinks whilst watching the sunset. If you are looking for a party this is not the place to come.

• 19.  Go Diving off The Coast of Koh Lanta

Situated in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta is a beautiful island only 20km’s in length. There are 17 dive shops on the island and some of the most beautiful diving in the world is to be had in the sea surrounding the island. Famous dive sites are Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, these are considered to be the best in the area

20. Take Part in The Loi Krathong Festival

Celebrated across the country the Loi Krathong festival is an annual event that happens on the night of the twelfth lunar month. A Krathong is like a small floating basket in the shape of a lotus with a candle in it. The festival celebrates the Goddess of water for all the water that she has supplied over the last year. Thousands of krathongs are lit and left to float away on the rivers and canals, a truly breath taking sight. The festival is full of color and in some cities you will see whole areas turned in processions with dancing and much color.

21. Visit Pai

Situated just down from the border with Myanmar is the small town of Pai, historically it was a small town inhabited by the Shan people, now it makes its money from the tourism trade. There are plenty of cheap places to stay and you are guaranteed a relaxing time when you visit. A romantic town that was made famous by appearing in a couple of famous Thai movies (The Letter and Ruk Jung.) Every year more tourists visit that the year before so there has never been a better time to visit than now.

22. Take a Trip To The City of Ayutthaya

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya needs to be on your Thailand to-do list . Originally the capital of Thailand the city was founded in 1350 when King U Thong relocated to the city to escape an outbreak of smallpox. However in 1767 the Burmese army marched on the city and destroyed nearly every part of it. The kingdom collapsed and was never the same again. The ruins of the city are preserved in the historical park and are certainly worth a visit when in the country.

• 23.  Take the Thai-Burma Railway

Also known as the Death Railway due to the 300,000 people that died during its construction. The Thai-Burma railway was built between 1942 and 1943 to transport Japanese troops to Burma, the troops were then supposed to attack the British in India. Built by prisoners and Asian laborers the line stretches for 415km with perhaps the most famous part of the line being where the track goes over the bridge on the river Kwwae (kwai)

• 24.  Drink From a Coconut

All over Thailand you will come across coconut sellers, standing by the side of the road with their simple stall, chopping board and cleaver. For just a few baht you can order one and watch as they cut deep into the flesh at the top of the coconut and cut out a piece in the shape of a square. A straw is added the square (now the lid) is replaced and you are ready to drink the cool milk inside. Absolutely delicious on a boiling hot day, fewer things will quench your thirst as much as this. When you have finished drinking the milk if you have a spoon you can scrape out the insides to enjoy the white flesh part that remains.

• 25.  Visit Erawan Falls

Situated within the Erawan National Park the Erawan Falls are a group of seven waterfalls (the drop from the top waterfall to the bottom one is over 1500m) each having its own distinctive character. The water plunges over lime stone cliffs and into beautiful plunge pools, this has led to the landscape being sculpted by the water and it is truly beautiful. You can spend a whole day in the park trekking from one waterfall to the next, stopping to take a swim in the pools where the water gathers to cool yourself down.

25 Best Things to Do in Thailand:

• Visit the Grand Palace
• Have a Thai Massage
• Visit The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)
• Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower
• Take a trip to Koh Phi Phi
• Visit a Ping Pong Show
• Drive Like a Local
• Have a Water Fight During Songkran
• Take Part in The Loi Krathong Festival
• Take a Trip To The City of Ayutthaya

Visit Thailand: Top 25 things to do and must-see attractions

The 25 best things to do in thailand (bucket list).

You’re looking for the best places to visit in Thailand?

You’re at the right place!

No matter if you prefer to visit cities such as Bangkok , Chiang mai or Chiang Rai , historical sites ( Ayutthaya and Sukhotai) or to relax at the beach ( Phuket , Koh Lanta , Koh Samui islands and more!) , you will find the perfect destinations for your holidays in this article.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 25 best things to do in Thailand , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

And to make thongs even easier for you, I have also written detailed itineraries in Thailand, from 1 week to 1 month . You will find them at the end of this article.

You will see, planning your trip to Thailand will be super easy!

So, where to go in Thailand?

2. Kanchanaburi and the Bridge Over the River Kwai

3. ayutthaya, 5. sukhothai, 6. chiang mai, 7. chiang rai, 8. trek in the northern mountains, 9. mae hong son province, 13. ao nang / railay, 14. koh phi phi, 15. koh lanta, 16. ko yao noi, 17. koh samui, 18. ko pha ngan, 19. the similan islands, 20. the national parks of thailand, 21. pattaya, 22. seeing elephants in thailand, 23. diving in thailand, 24. enjoy a thai massage, 25. discover thai cuisine, bonus: festivals and celebrations in thailand, going to thailand: flight prices, thailand tours, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, the best places to visit in thailand.

In order to help you plan your stay in Thailand, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Thailand travel guide with Bangkok, the capital city.

When you will arrive in Bangkok, you will directly be struck by the noises, smells, traffic jams and crowds. In other words, you will be immersed in the atmosphere of this very dynamic city !

If you visit the center or the north during your trip to Thailand , there is a good chance you will land in or leave from Bangkok. Take the opportunity to spend 2 or 3 days there , while you recover from jet lag and adjust to Asia.

Even if opinions are mixed about the biggest Thai city, it remains a must-see for a trip to Thailand.

Here are the Best Places to visit in Bangkok:

• The Royal Palace (or Grand Palace) : an emblematic site, one of the most visited in Bangkok. Inside, you can admire the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a museum and several pavilions with impressive scenery.
• Wat Arun : this Buddhist temple is located along the river, on the other side from the Royal Palace. It includes a central Prang (a tower) 82 meters high, entirely covered with small pieces of colored porcelain and statues.
• Wat Pho is the third most famous temple in Bangkok. There you can see the famous 45 meters long reclining Buddha statue.
• Khao San Road : formerly a backpacker area, Khao San Road is now visited by all categories of tourists. Very lively, there are shops, bars, restaurants and guest houses where you can stay in Bangkok at a low cost.
• The Golden Mount : built on a hill, the temple offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
• Chinatown : the lively and crowded Chinatown district, with many street stands and shops. There, you shouldn’t miss the Wat Traimit, a temple housing the world’s biggest golden statue (5.5 tons!).
• The weekend market in Chatuchak : with its 15,000 stands, this market is the largest in Thailand and even in all of Asia. And as its name suggests, it only opens on weekends. Divided into several parts, you will find absolutely everything there: clothes, souvenirs, shoes, food, jewellery…
• The Siam district features many shopping centers including the MBK Center or Siam Paragon. This is the most famous area for shopping in Bangkok.

If you want more information about Bangkok, you should read my detailed article: The 20 best things to do in Bangkok.

Kanchanaburi is located 130 km northwest of Bangkok .

Even if you have never heard this name, you have probably heard about the Bridge Over the River Kwai, one of the most important tourist and historical site in Thailand. It’s the symbol of the city’s tragic past during the Second World War.

In Kanchanaburi, the Japanese army enslaved thousands of prisoners of war to build more than 400 km of railway line between Thailand and Myanmar. Between disease, brutality and malnutrition, more than 16 000 people have died during the construction.

Of the 688 bridges built by the Japanese army, it was the only steel bridge built in Thailand.

If you are interested in history, you should really visit Kanchanaburi and its main points of interests:

• The railway museum, about the history of “the death railway” and the harsh living conditions of the prisoners
• The Allied Military Cemetery, where the graves of nearly 7,000 soldiers are located
• Jeath War Museum, where you can see letters and personal belongings of prisoners
• World War II Museum and its view over the famous bridge
• And of course don’t forget to cross the bridge itself!

In addition to the Bridge Over the River Kwai, there is another (more cheerful) place to visit in the surroundings of Kanchanaburi: Erawan National Park.

Erawan waterfall , a 7-level waterfall, is the main attraction of the park. There, you can take a dip, walk on a botanical trail along the river and see a few caves.

The Historic City of Ayutthaya is located about 75 km north of Bangkok .

Former capital of the Kingdom of Siam , and for a long time an important economic and commercial centre , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is clearly one of the best places to visit in Thailand!

As Ayutthaya is easily accessible from Bangkok by bus (1h30), train (2 h) or car (45 min), it’s the perfect day trip destination.

In Ayutthaya Historical Park , you can discover dozens of ruined temples spread over fifteen sites. It’s very large, so it will take you about a full day to visit the 6 main temples.

To visit them, you should buy the 220 Bahts pass, it’s the most convenient. However, if you don’t want to visit them all, you can also purchase each ticket separately.

Here are the 6 temples included in the pass:

• Wat Mahathat: one of the most famous, you have maybe already seen the picture of Buddha’s head statue enclosed in the roots of a tree.
• Wat Ratchaburana and its very well preserved Trang (tower)
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet, in my opinion one of the most beautiful in Ayutthaya
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maheyong
• Wat Chai Watthanaram, to see at sunset

To visit Ayutthaya, you can rent bicycles (50 bahts per day), a motorcycle , or take a tuk-tuk tour . If you come by car , you just have to park your car in the car parks located at the entrance of each temple.

As some temples are really far from each other, I don’t recommend walking between the sites.

As several rivers are crossing in Ayutthaya it’s also possible to discover some of the temples by boat. The best time to do this is fore sure at sunset!

You will find every information you need to visit Ayutthaya in my article: How to visit Ayutthaya?

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Thailand around Ayutthaya, you can go to Lopburi , an hour’s drive away.

Lopburi, one of the oldest cities in the country hosts a few ruined temples. However, they aren’t the main attraction there!

Most visitors actually come to see the numerous monkeys who colonized the area . There are literally hundreds of them among the ruins.

The most famous site, both for the monkeys and for its architecture, is Prang Sam Yot

Store your food in your bag and be careful with your hat and sunglasses.

If you want to visit temples during your trip to Thailand, you can also visit Sukhothai .

Sukhothai Historical Park is located in northern Thailand, 400 km from Bangkok, and 280 km from Chiang Mai.

Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai is a former capital of the Siam kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site features several ruined temples spread over 3 areas:

• The central area (entrance at 100 Baht): it’s the most interesting, you will find there the largest and best preserved temples. On foot, allow about 2 hours to visit the temples. You can also rent a bike, but to be honest, it’s not very convenient for such short distances.
• The North zone (entrance to 100 Baht) mainly includes 2 temples, the most famous being a giant 15 meters high sitting Buddha. To get there from the central area, you will need a bike or a car.
• The West zone (entrance at 100 Baht): As the ruins are far from each other, it’s best to visit it by car. But, honestly, apart from Wat Saphan Hin and its Buddha statue located on the top of the hill, there isn’t much to see.

It will take you about 4 hours to visit the 3 areas by car and a full day by bike. It’s really a must see during road trip in Thailand !

You can find detailed information about Sukhotai in my article: How to visit Sukhothai Historical Park?

You want to discover the North of Thailand? Then you should head to Chiang Mai.

As the city has an international airport, you can arrive there directly by plane, usually after a transfer in Bangkok. It’s also possible to reach Chiang Mai by bus or train from Bangkok, and of course by car.

Here are the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Enjoy a walk in the old town, where most temples are located. This includes the famous Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man
• Take a Thai cooking class: the city is the main destination in Thailand for this activity
• Discover the local markets: between Warorot Market, the Night Bazaar and Saturday/Sunday Night Markets, there are enough to keep you busy!
• Go to Huay Lake to eat in bamboo huts by the water. It’s Thai people’s favorite place to go out on weekends
• Head to Doi Suthep Temple , located 10 minutes by car from the city, in Doi Suthep National Park.
• Visit Bhubing Palace and stroll through the flowered gardens of the Royal Family’s winter palace
• Going to an elephant sanctuary (without riding them!).

If you want more details about the best things to do in Chiang Mai, you should read my article: Visit Chiang Mai: The definitive guide .

Chiang Rai is the other major city in northern Thailand .

It’s located 200 km northeast of Chiang Mai and has an airport with daily flights to Bangkok or southern islands such as Phuket or Krabi . You can also reach it by bus or car, but there is no railway station (the nearest one is in Chiang Mai).

What to see in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

• The white temple or Wat Rong Khun: this is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why travelers go to this city. The White Temple is known worldwide and I must admit that its reputation is well deserved. It’s truly impressive!
• The blue temple or Wat Rong Suea Ten: as you may have guessed, everything here is blue, from the giant statues at the entrance to the Buddha! A very nice site to visit and the entrance is free.
• The Night Bazaar: this night market is the perfect place to buy all kinds of souvenirs. It’s cheaper than the one in Bangkok and prettier.
• Go to Singha Park to take the classical picture of the great golden lion at the entrance. If you continue down the road, you will arrive at a scenic point overlooking a tea plantation. There is also a farm with animals.
• The Black House Museum or Baandam Museum: a rather unusual place with small houses decorated with crocodile skins and other objects that are quite “dark” and original.
• Khun Korn Waterfall , the largest waterfall in the Chiang Rai area, is easily accessible and can be reached by foot in about 30 minutes from the car park.
• The Huai Pla Kang / the Wat Huai Pla Kank / The big pagoda: a group of 3 gigantic and totally different monuments located in the same place. It’s impressive to see and very pretty.
• The Mae Fah Luang Garden can be found on top of Doi Tung mountain . Stroll through the beautiful flower park and visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa, the residence of the Princess’s Mother.

You will find every information you need to visit Chiang Rai in my article: The 17 best things to do in Chiang Rai .

You should take advantage of your holidays in Northern Thailand to go on a trek . It’s the perfect region for these kinds of activities!

Many tour companies offer treks of various lengths and difficulty levels to explore the mountains and meet the region’s ethnic groups .

You can visit Akha, Karen (a tribe famous for its “women with long necks”, also known as “giraffe women “) or Kahu villages and maybe even sleep in a local house .

These treks are increasingly being organized with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable development (for the most part, at least). The money raised is used to finance health centers or to provide scholarships.

Mae Hong Son is one of the most isolated province in Thailand . It stands on the border with Burma.

Pai, the best-known city in this region, is located 145 km northwest of Chiang Mai. It’s popular with Thai people (who are not afraid to travel all the way from Bangkok!) and tourists.

There are no major tourist attractions there. People simply come to Pai for its unique Hippie and bohemian atmosphere as well as to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding area.

And if you want to go out at night to eat or have a drink, you will find plenty of options to choose from.

Last but not least, Pai is also known for its drug trafficking.

Around Pai , you will find several waterfalls, hot springs, a few temples and Pai Canyon , a famous place to admire the sunset.

Isan, a region located northeast of Bangkok, i s somewhat overlooked by tourists in Thailand . It’s however a great place to visit if you want to get off the beaten track or have already visited Thailand’s more popular tourist areas on a previous trip.

There, you will find Khao Yai National Park , considered as one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This large 2,100 km² area is ideal for hiking and is home to many animals , including tigers, leopards, pythons (a little bit scary, I must admit!) but also gibbons and birds.

The best way to discover Isan is to rent a scooter or a car and go on an adventure through the authentic villages and the magnificent landscapes deserted by tourists.

And while you’re in the region, you shouldn’t miss The city of Nang Rong and its Khmer temples.

Although they aren’t as famous as Angkor temples in Cambodia, they are nevertheless worth a visit.

To admire them, you will need to go to Phanom Rung Historical Park . Built on the top of a volcano, it towers above the surrounding area and is home to several temples.

I can’t write a travel guide about Thailand without mentioning Phuket.

Located in the South of the country, in the Andaman Sea , it’s the largest island in Thailand and definitely one of the most touristic.

In Phuket, all the activities are concentrated on the West side of the island, specifically near Patong.

If you want to go to the bar or to a nightclub, you should head to Bangla Road. In Patong you will also find a very popular beach , as well as many hotels for every budget , from large resorts to small guesthouses.

If you enjoy entertainment and partying , this is the perfect place!

You prefer to relax and enjoy the calm? No problem, there are also quieter beaches on the island, such as Kata beach or Nai Harn beach. However, don’t expect to have the beach all to yourself!

In Phuket, you will also be able to do many activities: rock climbing, kite-surfing, paragliding, inner tubing, four-wheelers, bungie jumping, zip lining, high ropes courses, and scuba diving.

An important tip: always be cautious about the quality of the equipment , and try to inquire about the agency’s reliability. Each year, accidents happen because the safety regulations are not always followed.

In Phuket, you can also visit Phuket Town, a pleasant old town with pretty buildings in Chinese-Portuguese style architecture and a main street lined with cafés and trendy boutiques.

From Phuket , you can also go on day-trips to the neighboring islands , such as James Bond Island or Koh Phi Phi (continue reading for more details).

If you want more info about the best things to do in Phuket, you should read my article: Visit Phuket: the definitive guide .

Krabi is located in front of Phuket , on the other side of the Andaman Sea.

Krabi’s claim to fame is the karst formations that border its coast , as they greatly contribute to the spectacular beauty of the landscape.

Things to do in Krabi, Thailand:

• Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Suea : Climb the 1,237 steps to reach the top and enjoy the stunning view of the area.
• Khao Kanab Nan: These karstic rocks shaped like crab claws are the town’s emblem.
• Wat Kaew , a white temple found in Krabi Town.
• A day trip to the islands – The most popular one is the 4-island tour: Turtle Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Mor Island.
• The Night Market, for discovering the local cuisine.
• The Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail hike: Climb for 4 km and then enjoy the view from the summit.
• Emerald Pool: a natural emerald-green pool, perfect to take a dip!
• Khao Phanom Bencha National Park for a stroll in the tropical forest.
• A trip to Koh Phi Phi

Eager to know more about Krabi? All the info you need to plan your stay is in my article: Visit Krabi: the definitive guide.

Ao Nang is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Krabi. If you’d like to go to the beach during your stay in Krabi, it’s the closest spot in the area.

In Ao Nang, you will find long beaches of fine sand and clear turquoise waters. Many cafés, restaurants, and tour agencies can be found on the main street bordering the beach. It’s also where you will find hotels for any budget .

Along with swimming, you will also be able to enjoy many activities: scuba diving, kayaking through the mangrove, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and biking.

From Ao Nang, you can reach Railay , a large peninsula that can only be reached via long-tail boats. It will take you less than 10 minutes to arrive at Railay West Beach.

This beach, surrounded by huge karstic cliffs , is stunning! Right behind the beach, you will find shops, restaurants and hotels.

While visiting Railay, you should also go to Phra Nang Beach. Often listed amongst the most beautiful beaches in the world , it’s truly magnificent, despite being very busy!

Last but not least, Railay is a great destination in Thailand for all rock-climbing lovers. Around 700 paths are available to chose from, with options for both beginners and experts.

The islands of Koh Phi Phi, located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Koh Lanta, are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

These islands are well-known thanks to the movie “The Beach” , featuring Leonardo Di Caprio. The famous Maya Bay Beach on Koh Phi Phi Leh has quickly become the place to see during a tour in Southern Thailand.

Over 8 years, nearly 5,000 visitors walked up and down the beach every day.

As you can probably guess, this mass tourism had disastrous consequences for the local ecosystem and the corals. It got so bad that the Thai authorities had to take action, and thus the beach has been closed to the public since 2018.

But don’t worry, you can still see the beach from the boat during your day-trip!

There are also some very beautiful beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don , the second island. Here again, you can enjoy many activities: water-skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, scuba diving or snorkeling . Rock climbing is also quite popular.

You will have no difficulty finding accommodation on the island, given the ever-increasing number of hotels or youth hostels.

You will also have no problem finding places to go out and party . Koh Phi Phi is very lively and its nightlife is one of the best in Thailand!

However, if you’re looking for peace & quiet, you’d be better off visiting another island in Thailand.

Koh Lanta is another beautiful island to visit during your trip to Thailand.

Located around 70 km to the south of Krabi , in the Andaman Sea, you can easily reach it by boat from Krabi or Phuket.

If you’re looking for a Thai island with dazzling sandy beaches that are not too crowded , it’s an excellent choice. The further away from the port you go, the quieter it gets!

The best way to visit Koh Lanta is to rent a scooter for the day and go explore the beaches. Here are my 3 favorites on the island:

• Khantiang Beach: A very pretty beach topped by the Diamond Cliff bar/restaurant, one of the best places to admire the sunset.
• Khlong Chak Beach: A smaller and more intimate sandy beach.
• Bamboo Beach: A large and wild sandy beach, bordering the jungle. It was practically empty when we were there in January (tourism high-season in Thailand).

From Koh Lanta, you should really take the 4-island tour :

In a day, you will visit Koh Chueak, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai islands. You will leave with the boat in the morning and stop several times for snorkeling and beach-exploring on the four islands, before returning to Koh Lanta around 16h.

From Koh Lanta, you can also go on a day trip to Koh Rok island . The tours offer several snorkeling stops around the island and some time to enjoy the beach.

You plan to visit Koh Lanta during your trip to Thailand? Then you should read my detailed article: The 15 best things to do in Koh Lanta

Let’s now talk about my favorite island: Ko Yao Noi. I have been really lucky to discover this little paradise during my trip!

It’s a bit less known compared to the other islands I told you about. I had never heard about it before organizing my trip to Thailand and stumbled upon it by chance.

Ko Yao Noi (Don’t confuse it with its neighbour, Ko Yao Yai!) is located just 30 minutes aw ay from Phuket in speed boat.

It’s the perfect island to relax in a bungalow by the seaside during your holidays. The beaches are really nice!

You can easily tour the island on scooter to discover the beaches such as Long Beach or Luild Beach for example.

But you should above all do the boat day excursions to discover the other islands. There are several possible options with different choices of islands to see.

My favorite passed by Monkey Island, Ko Pak Bia, Ko Lao Lading and Ko Hong . The scenery was really stunning, it was for sure one of the best moments of my trip.

Another excursion from Ko Yao Noi takes you to 4 islands + James Bond Island. The scenery is very nice as well, even if James Bond Island is super touristy.

You can find detailed information about Ko Yao Noi in my article: The best things to do in Koh Yao Noi.

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand.

After Phuket, it’s the second largest island .

Koh Samui attracts a wealthy clientele who come to enjoy the beaches and the 5-star hotels and luxury spas. The goal? Relaxation and tanning!

And at the end of the day, the island will come alive: Koh Samui is the perfect place to party all night long!

During the day, you shouldn’t miss the Big Buddha Temple and Na Muang waterfall, 2 major tourist attractions you can discover on a day trip.

Ko Pha Ngan is located next to Ko Samui.

The famous Full Moon Party takes place on this island. Every month, on the night of the full moon, a gigantic party attracting thousands of people is held on Haad Rin beach . Music, dancing, games, and of course free-flowing alcohol are on the menu!

And if you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island , you should rather avoid the full moon party dates.

The Similan Islands are located northwest of Phuket, in the Andaman sea.

This archipelago of 9 islands is a protected zone that makes up the Similan Islands Marine National Park .

It’s the ideal place to go diving in Thailand , the Similan Islands being among the 10 most beautiful sites in the world . The water is particularly crystalline and populated by many fish and corals.

To discover the islands and explore the seabed, the easiest way is to opt for a day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak . The tour includes transfers to the port, breakfast, boat trip, lunch and snorkeling in 3 or 4 different places

And of course you can also do “real” scuba diving with air tanks . Dozens of diving centers offer it.

There are several national parks in Thailand , both lands and sea. They all offer breathtaking landscapes and a perfect opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of the country.

Here is a list of the most beautiful parks to visit in Thailand:

• The Similan Islands National Marine Park that I mentioned above.
• Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located east of Bangkok.
• Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai Province. There, you can find the country’s highest mountain, known as “The Roof of Thailand”.
• Erawan National Park and its many waterfalls
• Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park near Ko Samui
• Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani Province, where you can discover one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests
• Doi Suthep National Park , near Chiang Mai

Note that collecting flowers, pebbles, shells or coral as well as feeding fishes is strictly forbidden in all Thai National Parks

It’s also prohibited to use drones.

Pattaya, located less than 200 km away from Bankgok, is Thailand’s main seaside resort .

The city mainly attracts tourists coming to have fun and enjoy the crazy nightlife in gogos-bars or other cabarets featuring shemales . Its reputation is rather sulphurous and prostitution is particularly present.

Here are the 5 best places to visit in Pattaya, Thailand:

• Pattaya Walking Street , the pedestrian street, with its trendy shops and restaurants
• The Sanctuary of Truth , built of wood and adorned with many statues
• The Floating Market
• The Nong Noon Garden , a beautiful botanical garden

In Pattaya, you will also find many shopping centers and several golf courses .

You may have the opportunity to see elephants during your stay in Thailand.

I insist a lot on the word “see”, as I don’t recommend you to ride elephants for a safari . You probably now how these elephants are treated, So I really don’t encourage you to participate.

Please note that an elephant would never naturally agree to carry you on its back, only mistreated elephants do so. So don’t listen to what their owners tell you.

Several sanctuaries around the country recover and take care of abused, beaten or abandoned elephants. You could spend half a day or day, helping the staff to feed or wash them .

In Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park , is one of the most famous for its ethics. Everything is done to ensure the elephants live in an environment as close as possible to wild conditions.

If you go to Thailand to dive and snorkel, you will be delighted. The destination offers some of the most beautiful diving spots in the world.

From all the islands, whether Phuket, Ko Samui or Koh Lanta, you can observe the seabed equipped with masks and snorkels or, for the more adventurous, try scuba diving.

Here are the most famous diving places in Thailand:

• Ko Tao, about 1h30 from Koh Samui. This island is a world famous place to learn scuba diving.
• Similan Islands, west of Phuket and Khao Lak
• Ang Thong National Park, also towards Koh Samui
• The Surin Islands, near the Similan Islands

After a long day spent visiting, nothing beats a good massage to get back on track for the next day!

In Thailand, you will find many massage parlours and most hotels also offer this service.

Foot, leg and back massage, no matter what you prefer, you will have the choice! The great news is that Thai massages are very affordable: prices start from 250 Bahts (about 7-8 euros) for one hour.

Of course, there are also more luxurious versions: 5-star spas are a great place to get a massage in an idyllic setting, in the middle of lush gardens or by the sea.

During your trip to Thailand, you will also have the opportunity to discover local gastronomy

Of course, we have all seen picture of scorpion skewers , grilled crickets or even lively big worms presented on tourist markets. Fortunately, this kind of food is most of the time a tourist attraction and isn’t very representative of Thai cuisine.

There is one thing I will tell you right away: Thailand is one of the best travel destination for food lovers!

During the month I spent there, I tested all kind of street food and restaurants. Although most dishes are quite simple, based on meat + rice or noodles, they are always topped with many vegetables and spices and are very tasty!

So here is a brief overview of the dishes you can enjoy in the country:

• Fried rice, a sautéed rice with vegetables and meat (choice of chicken, pork, beef or sometimes shrimps)
• Pad Thai: generally fried noodles with shrimp, eggs, peanuts and soy sprouts
• Pat See You: large noodles sautéed in soy sauce
• Pat Krapao: with chicken and basil
• Le Lap Mou: minced meat with aromatic herbs, served with rice
• Som Tam, a papaya salad with fish, lemon and chili sauce. Tastes great, but you need to like spicy food!
• Tom Kha Kai: a chicken soup with coconut milk
• Kaeng Phed : a red curry with chicken or pork
• Khao Niao Ma Mouang or sticky rice with coconut milk and mango: a dessert you can find everywhere in Thailand

Now, you know everything about the best places to visit in Thailand.

However, there are also many festivals and events happening throughout the year!

Here is the list of the most famous festivals in the country:

• Songkran: the Thai New Year (in April) is celebrated with giant water battles taking place in the cities.
• Krathong Law: the world famous lantern festival, featuring thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky and rivers. It celebrates the end of the rainy season in November.
• The Flower Festival takes place in Chiang Mai for 3 days in February.
• The international kite festival (in March – All over the country).
• The vegetarian festival: In order to purify themselves, participants will not eat meat for 9 days. The ceremonies are particularly impressive, especially when people in trance pierce their skin with various objects.
• Chinese New Year usually takes place at the beginning of February. Celebrations are being held in Thailand’s major cities.
• Lopburi Monkey Festival, a giant banquet is organized to thank the monkeys for attracting so many tourists. Takes place in November.

And you, what would you like to visit during your trip to Thailand?

Flight prices to Thailand vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

When you get the results, don’t hesitate to check out multiple website to make sure there is no hidden fee.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Thailand by yourself. (All my Thailand travel guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Thailand tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Thailand tours by clicking the button below:

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Very nice article to visit Thailand, very documented and very complete! thanks for your patience to elaborate it so well! very helpful for my upcoming trip in Thailand!

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The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: March 7, 2024

Categories Asia , Guides , Thailand , Travel Guides

Creating a 10 day Thailand itinerary is not an easy task.  Not an easy task at all!  

Why is that?

Well, you know how most countries excel in only one specific tourist area. For example – you go to the Maldives to get a nice island vacation, you  explore Rome  to taste ( literally ) the unique culture and history ( and pizza ), you journey through South Africa to marvel at the stunning nature and wildlife.

Well unlike most countries in the world,  Thailand excels in plenty of traveling niches  thus creating an ultimate 10 day Thailand itinerary that covers all of them is impossible.

The good news is, since you’re already set on for adventure in the land of smiles, you probably have an idea what you want to do there. That’s why I  tailor-made a few entirely different 10 day Thailand itineraries  that won’t only cover different travel styles and needs, but are also guaranteed to make you want to come back and experience more of this South-East Asian jewel of a country. Enjoy!

10 Day Thailand Itinerary – Destinations

Before we get into the detailed itinerary, we’ll get to know to most popular places in the country. And boy oh boy, aren’t they all spectacular!

Just a little preview – the most visited city in the world, not one but two ancient capitals, the best diving island in the world, one of the top foodie cities in Asia, some of the very best nightlife hubs and of course the iconic white-sand movie beaches.

Yeah, all of that is in Thailand! No more teasing. Here are the places covered in the 10 day Thailand itinerary:

The capital of Thailand, the most visited city in the world, The City of Angels or Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit (that is it’s real name!).

No matter how you call it, Bangkok is one of those places you simply must see to comprehend. Extremely colorful, buzzing nightlife and distinctive culture, with it’s two international airports, the chances are high the capital of Thailand will be the first city on your 10 day Thailand itinerary.

What to do in Bangkok?

The grand palace and the temple of the emerald buddha (wat phra kaew).

The Grand Palace is the biggest highlight of the Thai capital and one of the  most prominent landmarks in the country . Skipping it is simply inexcusable.

The palace area is a complex of 30-ish colorful and exotic buildings, most famous of which is Wat Phra Kaew – the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

One of the most important temples in the country, Wat Phra Kaew houses the statue of The Emerald Buddha that only the king is allowed to touch. The legend has it that the image was carved in India and it was prophesied it would bring “prosperity and pre-eminence to each country in which it resides”. There are plenty of other cool temples around the Grand Palace. To see more pictures and info about them, you can check out my  Bangkok Temples Guide .

Castaway Tip Mind your clothing when you visit the Grand Palace. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. As for the women – no skirts, no shorts, no see-through clothes, bare shoulders, etc. If you show up at the front gate improperly dressed, there is a booth near the entrance that can provide clothes and cover you up properly (not for free though).

Temple of The Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)

Wat Pho or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is another popular attraction that should be an integral part of your  Bangkok itinerary . With 394 Buddha images, this temple is one of the most picturesque ones I’ve ever set my foot into. The cherry on the top is the giant 15 meters tall, 46 meters long reclining Buddha and the 108 wish-granting bronze bowls.

Castaway Tip Wat Pho is well-known as a center for traditional massage and medicine and one of the best places in town to get a Thai massage.

Khao San Road

And before you start thinking Bangkok is just temples, here is one of the most legendary party streets in the world – Khao San Road. A perfect place to get a delicious Pad Thai (from a stall), get a foot massage (on the street), eat a scorpion on a stick( or look how other crazy people eat a scorpion on a stick) and get wasted with (literally) a bucket of (questionable) alcohol. Khao San has earned its reputation a long time ago, and it still is one of the top spots in Bangkok.

Castaway Tip If you want to take a photo of the stalls that sell scorpions, spiders, and bugs, prepare to pay a small tip.

Where to stay in Bangkok?

Riva Arun Bangkok Situated on the Chao Phraya River,  Riva Arun  offers you incredible views of the Temple of Dawn or the Grand Palace. Speaking of the Grand Palace, the biggest attraction in Bangkok and one of the other must-see temples – Wat Pho, are just a few hundred meters away from your doorstep. Khao San road is only 30minutes by foot making Riva Arun the best-placed hotel in Bangkok. If you get one of their premium sweets, you can also enjoy a river overlooking balcony with a jacuzzi. Can’t get better than that! Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Bangkok? Check out my  Ultimate Bangkok Areas Guide  to find tips about all major city districts and more than 30 recommended hotels and Airbnbs.

   See Also:   Bangkok off the beaten track

Chiang Mai is my favorite town in Asia, and there is no way I’m leaving it out of this10 day Thailand itinerary.

A long time ago Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lan Na Kingdom for more than 500 years before becoming part of the Siam empire. Today it’s the most culturally significant city in the northern part of the country, a famous foodie destination and a favorite digital nomad base.

Chiang Mai is located in the mountains, and it’s surrounded by dense jungle thus being the prime place for wildlife and adventure activities.

What to do in Chiang Mai?

Have fun with elephants.

Having fun with elephants doesn’t mean riding them or watching them do some circus shows. Not sure if you know it, but those activities are incredibly unethical and cruel to one of the most intelligent animal species in the world.

The best way to interact with the gentle giants is through one of the programs in  Elephant Retirement Park  – a park that rescues abused elephants and takes care of them. Trust me, the mud bath you take with those guys would become one of your most cherished memories!

   See Also:   Why You Should Never Ride an Elephant

Castaway Tip There are plenty of options for ethical elephant experience in Chiang Mai, but not all of them are as ethical as they claim. Do proper research before you pick a program and avoid supporting animal mistreat.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep or simply  Doi Suthep is the local must-see temple . Built in 1386, the legend says the temple was assembled to hold a piece of bone from the Buddha’s shoulder.

Sadly, today there aren’t any divine bones inside. Instead, the temple can offer you a colorful dragon staircase, plenty of eye-watering photo ops and excellent panoramic view of the area.

Castaway Tip Doi Suthep is too far away to go on foot. Instead of taking a taxi though, get one of the songthaew (red trucks for share ride) from Huay Kaew Road near the Zoo. It should cost you only 40 Bahts.

Yi Peng (Loy Krathong) festival

If you’re lucky enough this 10 day Thailand itinerary would lead you to Chiang Mai in November. What so special about November? One of the most spectacular festivals in the world is celebrated then and believe me when I tell you, this is one top-notch bucket list adventure! Yi Peng or  the Lantern Festival is an event more magical than anything you’ve ever seen  and once in a lifetime experience.

   See Also:   The Ultimate 5-Day Singapore Itinerary

Where to stay in Chiang Mai?

18 In Town Homestay Incredibly furnished homestay, 18 in Town managed to capture Chiang Mai’s artistic soul and turn it into an incredible hotel experience. Located in the old city, this lovely homestay is just 3km away from the airport, a few hundred meters away from the best temples, and has multiple massage parlors and minimarkets right next to it. Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Chiang Mai? See the best hotels in town with a top-notch location, delicious breakfast, and free wi-fi.

   See Also:   What NOT to do in Thailand

When people think of Thailand, the first picture that comes to their mind is a longtail boat floating over crystal clear waters with limestone rock in the background ( just like the one above ).

If you want to see this picture in real life, you need to go to the Krabi province in South-West Thailand.  An area blessed with numerous picturesque islands and white-sand beaches , Krabi is also a favorite movie set for plenty of Holywood blockbusters.

What to do in Krabi?

The phi phi islands and maya bay.

Devastated by the infamous  Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004 , everything on the Phi Phi was rebuilt to become one of the most popular island vacation hubs in the world. The highlight place on the island is  the legendary Maya Bay, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio movie – The Beach.

Castaway Tip Maya Bay was closed due to tourist overpopulation, but it’s now reopen. You can’t go swimming but you can enjoy the most beautiful beach in the world.

James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay

Another bay and another Hollywood island. This time Roger Moore’s James Bond made the island world famous and forever changed its destiny.

The Blue Lagoon

If you get sick of tropical islands ( like this is a thing ), Krabi has more natural wonders to offer. The Blue Lagoon is not really a lagoon but  a jungle pond with unimaginable azure waters . Seriously, the color of the lake makes it look like a drawing. It’s something I haven’t seen anywhere else in the world, and it’s totally worth a visit.

Where to stay in Krabi?

Phi Phi Sunset Bay Resort Situated on the magical Phi Phi islands, the Sunset Bay Resort is tucked away from the noisy bar area. Surrounded by tropical jungle, almost everything in this bungalow resort is made of natural materials so don’t be surprised if there is a tree growing in your bathroom. If you’re worried about being too far away from civilization, don’t be. The resort offers free boat transfer that can get you to the town area for less than 5 minutes! Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Krabi? See the best hotels in the area with a top-notch location, tasty breakfast, and free wi-fi.

   See Also:   Thailand in December

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Samui is  the most significant island in the Chumphon Archipelago .

Measuring some 25 km at its widest point the island offers attractive budget travel options as well as high-end luxury resorts. It’s also one of the best places in Thailand to merely go on a beach vacation and forget about anything else.

What to do in Koh Samui?

Angthong marine park.

Popular day trip from the island, the Angthong Marine Park is a pristine archipelago of 42 limestone islands perfect for hiking and snorkeling.

Castaway Tip Sometimes the park gets closed during the low season (November-December) so make sure you research it promptly before booking any tours.

Wat Phra Yai

It won’t be in Thailand if there isn’t at least one impressive temple. Wat Phra Yai is famous for it’s giant gilded Buddha and it’s a pretty cool place to visit if you got tired of the beaches ( I’ve never seen anyone tired of tropical beaches but still ).

Where to stay in Koh Samui?

Erawan Villa Hotel  Right on the beach, and 2km away from the Fishermans Village and the Big Buddha. If the beach is not enough for you Erawan Villa Hotel also has a lovely private pool and Jacuzzi in its premium sweets. Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options on Koh Samui? See the best hotels in the area with a top-notch location, delicious breakfast, and free wi-fi.

Koh Pha Ngan

There is one thing Koh Pha Ngan is famous for, and that is PARTY.  Back in 1983, the first full moon party was created as a thanks  to about 20–30 travelers .  Nowadays, up to 30 000 people gather to the island every month to celebrate one of the most iconic parties in the world.

Castaway Tip The night before the Full Moon Party is also a party night. The Jungle Party some say is even better than the Full Moon.

Where to stay in Koh Pha Ngan?

Tommy Resort Since you’re coming to Koh Phangan for the full moon party, what better place to stay than the very same beach the party is on Tommy Resort is located at the end of it, so you won’t have any trouble getting home at any part of the night. The spacious hardwood furnished bungalows and the outdoor swimming pool are guaranteed to make your party recovery as pleasant as possible. Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Koh Pha Ngan?  See the best hotels on the island with a top-notch location, tasty breakfast, and free wi-fi.

Koh Tao ( meaning the Turtle Island ) is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand known for one thing only – diving!

The second cheapest place in the world to get your diving certificate ( the first one is Honduras, but somehow I doubt you’re going to Honduras is on your travel plans )  Koh Tao houses over 70 different diving shops .

And since there is barely anything other than divers and bars on the island, there is this  laidback subculture atmosphere  in the air you’d simply fall in love too!

Castaway Tip I got my certificate from Roctopus Dive , and I can’t recommend them enough. You won’t only get top professionals to teach you, but also very cool guys to hang around with!

Where to stay in Koh Tao?

Savage Hostel A hostel right on the beach with a great outdoor pool. Yup, dreamy hostels like that do exist, and the Savage Hostel is one great example. The location can’t get any better, the pool is excellent and the common spaces and well designed and clean. If you are not that much into sharing a room with strangers, private rooms are also on the menu. Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Koh Tao?   See the best hotels on the island with a top-notch location, delicious breakfast, and free wi-fi.

Founded in 1350 Ayutthaya was  the second capital of the Siam Kingdom  till the Burmese destroyed it in 1767. The ruins are now a national park and one of the most famous archeological spots in Thailand. Due to it’s proximity to Bangkok, it’s a popular day trip option.

The first capital of the Siam Kingdom  is located between Bangkok and Chiang may, and it’s criminally underrated. While people flocks to Ayutthaya, there is barely anyone in Sukhothai which of course is perfect for you.

Where to stay in Sukhothai?

Space Ben Guest House Sukhothai is not the most visited place in Thailand thus the accommodation in the area is limited. What makes Space Ben Guest House so much better than every other option is the location. It’s situated right at the entrance of the Sukhothai Historical Park. Literally a few steps away! Since there’s hardly anything else to do in Sukhothai and you’ll spend no more than a day or two there, Space Ben Guest House is the perfect accommodation. Check out the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Sukhothai?   See the best hotels in the area with a top-notch location, delicious breakfast, and free wi-fi.

Now that we have all the places sorted out, it’s time to get to the 10 day Thailand itinerary itself. Wait, did I say itinerary? I meant itineraries!

To fit all the different travel needs, I’ll give you four ( and a half ) options, all you have to do is find the one that suits your style and expectations. If you have more than 10 days in Thailand, it’s pretty easy to combine two or more of the itineraries into one.

The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary – The Culture Route

Been a successor of the Siam Kingdom, Thailand has a vastly rich history and unique, distinctive culture that makes it pop out in front of the other South-East Asian countries. In the cultural itinerary,  we’ll focus on the places that compose Thailand’s identity today .

Start: Bangkok Your flight most likely will be to Bangkok, and since there is plenty to see there, the cosmopolitan Thai capital would be the first place on your itinerary.

Days 1-3: Bangkok In three days you should be able to visit the top temples –  Wat Pho  ( has a 15 meters tall, 46 meters long reclining Buddha in it  ),  Wat Phra Kaew  ( the most important temple located inside the Grand Palace complex  ),  Wat Arun  ( Temple of the Dawn – Instagram perfection  ),  Wat Traimit  ( Has a 5.5 tonnes Buddha statue made out of pure gold  ) and  Wat Saket  ( aka the Golden Mount, has lovely panoramic view  ).

Museums are not Bangkok’s strong side, but you may consider visiting  Bangkok’s National Museum  or the  Jim Thompson House . It’s a good idea to explore the nearby  floating  and  train markets  ( first one is in the water, and instead of stalls there are boats, the other is in the middle of a railway, so it has to be moved every time a train comes  ), but have in mind those would require a full day.

Day 4: Ayutthaya day trip The ancient capital of Siam needs more than a few hours to be explored in detail, but since you have only 10 days in Thailand, you need to do it with a day trip. The good thing is, the place is pretty close to Bangkok, and you’d still be able to see a ton of ancient wonders. See Ayutthaya Day Trip latest prices

Day 5: Sukhothai The first capital of Siam and the best ancient site in the country. Unlike Ayutthaya though, this  UNESCO World Heritage Site  is not that close to Bangkok.

It’s, however, in the middle between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, so its location won’t throw you completely out of the way. To save some time, I recommend taking  one of the night buses from Bangkok  and arrive at Sukhothai early in the morning.

Explore the glorious ancient site for a day and catch the bus to Chiang Mai the next morning.

Days 6-9: Chiang Mai + Chiang Rai You should arrive in Chiang Mai around noon, so there is plenty of time to check out the old town area. For the next three days, I suggest  meeting some elephants  ( book this one early cause it’s extremely popular  ), visiting the most famous temple in the area –  Doi Suthep , exploring the night markets  ( they are everywhere on the weekend  ),  taking a Thai cooking class  and a must-have  day trip to Chiang Rai .

If you have more time in Thailand, Chiang Rai deserves a few days on its own but in this 10 day Thailand itinerary we only have time for a day trip. The most famous attraction of Chiang Rai is the White Temple – Wat Rong Khun , and every tour is centered around it.

The other noticeable places in the area are the Mae Khachan Hot Spring (  well…it’s a hot spring  ),  the Black House Museum  ( a bit creepy but beautiful  ),  the Blue Temple  ( they like to name their places with colors over here  ),  Karen Longneck village  ( if you want to do that, do your research and find a responsible tour company that will promote a socially responsible visit  ), and  the Golden Triangle  ( where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet  ).

   See Also:   One for your Bucket List – The Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya

Day 10: Go home It’s best to take your flight back home from Chiang Mai otherwise you’d lose a whole day to go back to Bangkok.

The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary – The Adventure Route

If going to temples and museums bore you to death, and  all you need for your perfect vacation is a little bit of adrenaline pumping in your veins , the next 10 day Thailand itinerary is the one for you.

Start: Chiang Mai Bangkok is a fantastic city, but there aren’t many adventures waiting for you there so you either book a flight directly to Chiang Mai or get an internal flight without wasting any time. You have only ten days, so your time is your most valuable resource.

Day 1-5: Chiang Mai You probably won’t have time for anything significant on your first day so take the time to relax and enjoy the famous Chiang Mai cuisine (  Khao Soi  is a must ).

The next four days you have plenty of options. I suggest going for an  ethical elephant experience  (won’t pump your adrenaline but still one of the coolest things you can do in Chiang Mai), go to the longest zip line in Asia –  Flight of the Gibbon  (  if you’re lucky you may get some real gibbons in the trees around you ), climbing up the Sticky Waterfall, do some 20 meters high cliff jumping into the  Chiang Mai’s old quarry  (also known as the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon) or go  white-water rafting in the Maetaeng river .

There are also numerous options for  Biking tours , ATV exploring and even bamboo river rafting .

Day 6-9: Koh Tao There is one main reason to visit Koh Tao, and that is to get your diving license! Don’t be afraid, learning to dive is not hard and it’s one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences out there.

Just make sure you reserve three full days in your itinerary for Koh Tao. If you already got your license or don’t feel like getting one, you can do for fun dives ( little depth, just to get the feeling  ), snorkeling, mountain biking and rock climbing around the island.

Day 10: Go Home It’s best to get a late flight as possible otherwise you’d have to spend the previous day to travel from Koh Tao to Bangkok / Chiang Mai

The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary – The Party Route

If you travel to Thailand with only one goal on your mind – to party, you picked the right destination.  There are no temple visits or adventure activities on this itinerary, just tips about some of the most iconic nightlife places in the world . For this 10 day Thailand itinerary, timing is crucial. You need to check when the full moon is and center your trip around it.  Remember, you need the full moon on the 8th day of your journey!

  Start: Bangkok Once upon a time, Bangkok was famous only for its red-light districts. Been the most visited city in the world changed that, and the nightlife area evolved massively during the years. Today the Thai capital literally offers thousands of funky rooftop bars, frisky clubs, and upbeat cocktail bars.

Days 1-5: Bangkok Khao San road is a must-see place for every self-respected party animal, and so is the iconic  Route 66  bar. Some of the best rooftop bars in town are  Vertigo ,  Octave Rooftop Bar  and  Above Eleven . As far as regular bars go,  Maggie Choo’s  (  trendy designers bar ),  The Iron Fairies  (  Iron themed pub with awesome cheap beer ) and  Havana Social  (  very cool Cuban theme  ) won’t disappoint. Even if you’re not into that stuff, I suggest to check out the Red Light Districts –  Soi Cowboy ,  Nana Plaza , and  Patpong . Even without “consummation”, those places are a ton of fun and totally worth a visit.

If you like to move around, you may decide to leave Bangkok and spend a day or two in the nearby Pattaya. Worldwide famous nightlife awaits for you in the relatively small coastline city ( if adult entertainment is your prime reason to visit Thailand, Pattaya should definitely be on your list  ).

   See Also:   The Ultimate Bangkok Shopping Guide

Days 6-9: Koh Phangan On the 6th day of your 10 days Thailand itinerary, make your way to the island of Koh Phangan. The next day is your first party day. No, not the full moon one. The day before the Full Moon Party, there is the so-called  Jungle Party . Once an underground feast, today the Jungle Experience is almost as famous as the Full Moon Party.

On your 8th day, join thousands of others to celebrate the biggest beach party in the world –  the Full Moon Party of Koh Phangan .

Day number 9 could be used for recovery or travel back to Bangkok ( depending on your flight back home  )

Day 10: Go home

The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary – Beach Vacation

Your idea of perfect Thailand vacation is laying on a white-sand beach and swimming among colorful fishes in crystal clear tropical waters . This 10 days Thailand itinerary is the one for you then. There are two distinctive beach vacation areas in the country – The Gulf of Thailand on the east side and the Andaman Sea on the west side. Here is how to get the best out of them.

Start: Koh Samui Samui is the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s big enough to even have its own airport! Make the best you can to arrive on the island on your first day in Thailand.

Days 1-4: Koh Samui I won’t suggest many activities here, just book a kick-ass beachside resort and enjoy the tropical Thai sun. If you get bored, you may go and explore the nearby  Ang Thong National Park .

Days 5-9: Krabi On your 5th day, make your way to the Krabi area. One of the best places to stay there is Ao Nang. Not only you’d have two beaches right in front of your door, but also numerous restaurant option and easy transportation to the nearby islands. If you prefer a premium beach vacation, book your stay on the Phi Phi islands.

With four full days in Krabi, you can check out the most popular islands in the Andaman Sea. Must-Sees are the  Phi Phi islands , James Bond Island, Hong Island , and Chicken Island . If you want a bit of change of scenery, you can go and check Krabi’s favorite temple –  the Tiger Cave   ( have in mind there is 1260 steps climb to the top though  ) or the incredible Blue Lagoon jungle pond.

Day 10: Go home Krabi has an international airport so try to catch your flight back home from there.

The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand itinerary – The Lazy One

If you really hate the idea of moving around  but you still want a taste of Thailand

Days 1-10 Phuket If you read everything till now ( you’re amazing!  ) you probably wonder why I never mentioned Phuket. Up there in popularity with Bangkok and Chiang Mai, for many people Phuket is the go-to vacation spot in Asia. The reason I didn’t include it in any of my itineraries though is that I think  Phuket has little bit of everything but not as good  as the other places on the itinerary.

What do I mean? Bear with me. There are some temples in Phuket, but none of them are as spectacular as the ones in Bangkok/Chiang Mai. There is a buzzing nightlife there, but it’s not on the Bangkok, Pattaya or even close to Koh Phangan’s level. You can go on a beach vacation in Phuket , but you’re gonna visit the same islands near Krabi, you’d to spend more time on the boat ( since Phuket is farther away than Krabi  ) and you’ll pay a higher price.

Having said that, Phuket is not a bad place, and indeed there are some advantages of choosing the lazy itinerary. You won’t have to change hotels and waste time on the road, and you’ll be able to see all sides of Thailand. Notable places of interest in Phuket are Phuket Town night market, the  big Buddha on the top of the Nakkerd Hills ,  Bangla Road  ( Phuket’s equivalent of Khao San Road  ) and all of the Krabi islands.

Useful Information About Thailand

When is the best time to travel to thailand.

The climate in Thailand is defined as tropical and humid. Best time is a tricky conception since there are a few different weather areas in the country. The area north of Bangkok has three seasons while the one South of it has only two.

In the North , the weather is dry between November and May. This is, however, broken into two periods – November to February when it’s considered winter with temperature in the low 20C, and March-May, when it’s the dry summer with average temperature reaching nearly 30C. From May to October is the rainy season.

South Thailand  has only two seasons – wet and dry. Unfortunately, those seasons don’t run spontaneously on both costs of the peninsula thus making your beach vacation tricky to navigate. The west coast ( Krabi, Phuket  ) is rainy from April through to October, while on the east coast the storms are gathering between September and December.

Bangkok  has three main seasons: hot from March to June, rainy from July to October and cool between November and February. Have in mind that Bangkok’s cool still average temperatures of more than 20C.

What to bring with you in Thailand?

I won’t annoy you with a long list of Amazon listings here. I mean, if you’re going for the island vacation you know you need to bring bathing suits, right? If you like to read you probably already have Kindle and if you’re a photo enthusiast you have your camera ready. The products I recommend are specific items you never even know you should have in Thailand.

Detachable pants  – Thailand is full of beautiful temples to explore, but a lot of them have a strict dress code that won’t let you enter with shorts. Combine that with the hot weather and suddenly figuring out what to wear becomes a significant headache. What I do is using a  pair of pants like these . Put the sleeves in your bag, and you got comfy shorts to survive the relentless Thai heat that turns into proper long pants when needed to enter a temple.

Coral-friendly sunscreen  – This is something that probably hasn’t even occurred to you, but yes, sunscreens do harm the corals. In order to avoid situations like the one in Maya Bay, we all need to give a second thought about how much our actions reflect on the places we visit. Otherwise, we won’t be able to enjoy them for long.

Water Bottle  – if you travel often, you know this is a must-have. Water bottle saves you a fortune on the airports, and it decreases the use of plastic! You can even go a step further and get a  bottle that purifies water  so you may never have to buy a bottled one again.

How To get around in Thailand?

Thailand has an excellent transportation network, so it’s pretty easy to get from one place to another. Whether it’s a bus, a train, a ferry or an internal flight, there will be plenty of options and the price will be reasonable (yes, flights are cheap too).

The best place to find the transportation you need, not only for Thailand but for entire Asia, is  12GO.asia . I use them every time and never had a single problem.

If you area car person and you want to drive everywhere yourself, you need to rent a car. I recommend checking out  Discover Cars  and their tool that will compare all the best rent-a-car providers in the area. The prices they manage to find are sometimes ridiculously low.

On the islands, the easiest way to travel is via motorbike (you can rent one from pretty musch everyhwere).

Is Thailand safe?

Thailand is one of the safest destinations in South-East Asia. Been visited by hundreds of millions of tourist in recent years, the country has put a lot of focus into tourists and their safety.

This doesn’t mean you should forget your travel smarts or skip your  travel insurance  ( especially if you go for the adventure itinerary  ). Don’t go alone in the dark, don’t flash expensive jewelry or electronics, never give your passport to anybody and always keep your cash in 3 different places.

If you’re approached by a stranger who speaks English very well and wants to help you, don’t go for it. This type of scam is not a dangerous one but will eventually take you to a specific shop that will try very hard to sell you something and could waste a ton of time.

Currency in Thailand

The only accepted curreny in Thailand is the Thai Baht ( check the latest rates ).

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

Most of the Western countries’ passport holders can enter Thailand visaless (for up to 30 days), even more, countries are eligible for Visa on arrival.  Check out the requirements for your nationality here.

What about the Internet in Thailand?

There is wi-fi in almost every hotel or restaurant. It’s not the fastest one in the world though. Get yourself a prepaid travel SIM from the airport or any 7-11 and forget all Internet troubles.

You can also  order a SIM card online  and have it delivered at the airport. Definitely the most convenient way.

Useful Words in Thai

Thai people love when you try to use their language. Don’t worry if you misspoken something, they will still enjoy it, and you may get VIP treatment.

Thank you  – if you are a Female – kob-khun ka; If you are a Male – kob-khun krab Hello  – Sa-wat dee How much  – Gee baht? I don’t want  – Mai ow Sorry  – Khor tort Delicious  – A-roi 

Wow, this one came out pretty big! If you managed to read it all (you’re a  legend!  ) you know so much about Thailand so you’d be able to plan your trip without any hassle.

That’s all from me, I hope you enjoy your 10 days in Thailand ! ———————————— If you haven’t planned your trip there yet, find out how I plan my trips! ———————————— I have 32 bucket list ideas for Thailand. See my impossible bucket list of 1700+ adventures!

Which Thailand ititerary is the best for you?

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Bangkok

21 BEST Places to Visit in Bangkok (2024)

Bangkok is a lively city that is sure to appeal to your senses and stir your soul. You’ll find historical sites next to vibrant nightlife areas, bustling markets near modern shopping malls, and street food vendors close to world-class restaurants. Bangkok, with all its top places, is definitely a city that will enthral, entice, and excite.

Bangkok is a large and sprawling city. Deciding where to visit can be tough, particularly if your time in the Thai capital is limited.

There’s no need to stress though; our expert team of travel writers have compiled this  fantastic list of the best places to visit in Bangkok  so that you don’t miss any of the city’s top spots.

With something to appeal to all tastes and budgets, some of these best places to visit in Bangkok are sure to amaze you! From the magnificent Royal Palace to Chatuchak Market, Wat Arun or a boat down the Chao Phraya River, there’s heaps of amazing tourist attractions to explore.

NEED A PLACE QUICK? Here’s the Best Neighbourhood in Bangkok:

These are the best places to visit in bangkok, faq on the best places to visit in bangkok.

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Not satisfied? Then check out our neighbourhood breakdown of Bangkok and find the right place to stay for your trip!

Sukhumvit is a centrally located neighbourhood with easy access to other districts throughout Bangkok. Ideal for first-time visitors, this neighbourhood boasts a number of historic and cultural attractions as well as great bars, restaurants and shopping.

• Take a stroll through Benjakitti Park, a calm oasis at the centre of Bangkok.
• Visit the intricate and incredible Wat Pasee temple.
• Experience the lively and colourful Thai markets that can be found along Sukhumvit Road.

There are so many things to do in Bangkok you’d be forgiven for feeling a bit overwhelmed when it comes to planning your trip. But that’s where we come in, we’ve done the leg work for you so all you need to do is give this list a read and get planning your Bangkok itinerary ! There’s good reason Bangkok is the starting point for most people backpacking in Thailand , it’s a buzzing metropolis with some stunning architecture, amazing food and mesmerising culture. It’s a fantastic introduction to Thailand!

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#1 – The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha

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• Official home of the Thai monarch (King Rama X)
• The Grand Palace is a historical and cultural site
• Beautiful architecture built by King Rama I
• The Grand Palace is home to Thailand’s most sacred temple

Why it’s awesome: The Grand Palace is definitely a top place to visit in Bangkok. Built-in the 1780s by King Rama I, it has long been the official home of the Thai monarch. Made up of a number of halls, buildings, and pavilions, the complex has beautiful courtyards, gardens, and lawns too. The revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) is also within the extensive grounds. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in the city for a reason.

You’ll notice that there are many different styles, largely thanks to the various monarchs that made their marks on the Grand Palace over the years. It’s still a working palace and, while several parts of the site are closed to the public, visitors can admire many of the glorious buildings, absorb a strong sense of history and culture, and get a feeling of how Thai royalty lives.

What to do there: Marvel at the majesty of the Grand Palace complex, many fine architectural details and the playful sunlight that shimmers through the roof. Large mythical giants, known as yants, guard gateways and the mythical bird-like garudas perch on many ledges. Admire the various statues throughout the well-tended grounds, the smaller but fascinating details, and take many awesome pictures .

You’ll notice that there are Buddha statues in all postures—find out which Buddha correlates to your day of birth and make merit. Watch as Buddhists give offerings and pray and see the small but impressive Emerald Buddha statue. Actually made from jade, the green statue is Thailand’s most sacred Buddha statue.

Be sure to dress conservatively when planning to visit the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha—the dress code is very strict and you’ll be refused admission if you’re dressed inappropriately. Make sure that your legs are covered to at least the knees (men should wear long trousers) and your arms to at least the elbows. Closed shoes are also a must when you visit the Grand Palace.

Insider Tip: Come early as it gets busy and queues can be long as the day goes on

#2 – Chatuchak Weekend Market – A great place in Bangkok if you love to shop!

• Biggest market in Thailand and the world’s biggest outdoor weekend market
• Great chance to practice haggling skills
• Chatuchak Market has a huge array of goods
• Great variety of street food stalls

Why it’s awesome: One of the biggest markets in the world (and therefore one of the coolest places to visit in Bangkok), the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok (also known as JJ Market) has around 15,000 stalls spread between almost 30 sections. Huge, but fairly easy to navigate, there are sections dedicated to art and crafts, clothes and accessories, ceramics, plants and gardening, books, antiques and World War II memorabilia, home décor, and more. It’s often said that if you can’t find what you’re looking for at Chatuchak Market then it’s not worth having!

Around 200,000 people visit the enormous market every weekend making it one of the most popular places in Bangkok. Open since the early 1940s, the market has grown into the mammoth that it is today, with places to rest, eat, and drink if you need to take a break from all the retail therapy.

What to do there: Wear comfortable shoes and shop, shop, and shop! Whether you’re looking for exquisite Thai silks, cheap t-shirts, handmade soaps, typical souvenirs, carved wood, amulets and religious memorabilia, kitchenware, or something else, you’re sure to find it at Chatuchak Market.

Although prices are generally reasonable, the weekend market is the perfect place in Bangkok to improve your haggling skills for even greater pocket-friendly prices. Sample an array of street food and chill in a bar with a cool beer or fresh fruit juice. Don’t miss seeing the clock tower, built-in 2007 to commemorate the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60 th birthday.

#3 – Wat Pho – One of the most religious places to see in Bangkok

• Wat Pho is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
• See one of Thailand’s biggest reclining Buddha statues.
• One of Bangkok’s oldest temples dating to the King Rama I era.
• Wat Pho is a first-class royal temple.

Why it’s awesome: Wat Pho, commonly referred to as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is among the six most revered temples in all of Thailand. Famous for its stretching 46-metre-long (151-feet-long) lying Buddha statue, the temple also boasts the biggest collection of Buddha statues in the country. Many of the statues were brought here from the ancient capital of Ayutthaya when the city fell to the Burmese, and there are also statues from the former capital of Sukhothai and other places around Thailand. Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, older in fact than the capital and a major tourist attraction you just can’t miss.

The original temple is thought to date back to the late 1600s or early 1700s, although the temple underwent large renovations and restorations in the 1780s. There’s a Thai medicine school within the grounds and the temple is where traditional Thai massage originated. It’s the perfect place to experience Thai culture.

What to do there: Walk around the complex’s outer walls and see the large statues of giants that keep watch over the site. Brought to Thailand from China, some of the interesting statues have European features. Khmer-style statues stand at the pagodas at the corners of each courtyard; their job is to guard north, south, east, and west. You’ll see chedis and pagodas in all shapes, sizes, and colours; there are four large chedis plus almost 100 smaller chedis.

Marvel at the huge golden reclining Buddha statue inside Wat Pho. Enjoy a Thai massage in one of the pavilions or, if you have longer in the capital, you could also consider enrolling in a course to learn the ancient massage technique yourself in the very place where it was born.

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#4 – Wat Arun – One of Bangkok’s coolest historical places!

• Colourful Buddhist temple with links to Hindu cosmology
• Wat Arun has an air of peaceful spirituality
• Lovely river views
• Wat Arun has a long and fascinating history

Why it’s awesome: Wat Arun (also sometimes known as Wat Chaeng) is a stunning temple on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River and a great place to visit in Bangkok for history fans. Nicknamed the Temple of the Dawn, Wat Arun is rather unique in its designs and not like other temples around the Thai capital. A temple has stood at the same site since the Ayutthaya period – which is a pretty long time!

The main prang of Wat Arun is in a Khmer style and bedecked with broken pieces of porcelain and shells for a whimsical and colourful appearance. Statues of animals and Chinese figures stand around the base. Chinese-style pavilions sit next to the river and there’s a large Buddha statue within the giant-guarded Ordination Hall.

What to do there: Admire the glorious temple from across the Chao Phraya River before taking the ferry to get up close. Climb up the central prang (built by King Rama II), admiring the views as you pass up the three symbolic levels. Feel small as you stand in front of the fearsome statues at the entrance to the Ordination Hall and see the main Buddha housed from within. Relax in one of the salas (pavilions) and soak up the river views. Try and visit Wat Arun at night time too when it is illuminated against the inky sky, the reflections shimmering on the water in a beautifully captivating way.

Why not book an Airbnb in the area and make the banks of the Chao Phraya River your base for a while?

Insider Tip: Come back at sunset and watch from across the river as the sky lights up behind the temple

#5 – Wat Yannawa – Quite the quirky place in Bangkok!

• Interesting temple designed like a boat
• Chinese heritage
• Off the beaten track
• Quiet and peaceful

Why it’s awesome: Wat Yannawa is an ancient temple that can trace its roots back to the Ayutthaya period and before the founding of Bangkok as the Thai capital. Located close to the Chao Phraya River, the temple was built on the orders of King Rama III. It was designed to resemble a traditional Chinese junk (sailing vessel), helping to preserve maritime heritage.

This “temple” is definitely not what you’d expect, so it’s a really interesting place in Bangkok. There are several other impressive buildings throughout the complex, including an ancient wooden structure and an air-conditioned room with a dazzling array of Buddha images and other religious ornaments and memorabilia.

What to do there: Pass through the large entrance gate and stroll along the wide pavement up to the boat-shaped structure. Buy a floral offering before stooping to pass through the low passageways and climb the steps inside the boat to reach the upper small shrine. Light incense and pay your respects at the shrine and make merit by placing flowers in the Buddha footprint.

Insider Tip: You can get here easily by taking a ferry down the Chao Phraya River and getting off the boat right outside the temple.

#6 – Lumpini Park – One of the most beautiful outdoor places in Bangkok

• Popular place for leisure, sports, and relaxation
• Great for families
• See large monitor lizards
• Enjoy nature in the heart of the city

Why it’s awesome: Lumpini Park covers 142 acres (57.6 hectares) and it’s located in the city centre close to several BTS and MRT stations. Statues stand proudly outside the smoke-free park and inside you’ll find walking trails, pavilions, and artificial lakes. The park was established in the 1920s on ground that was once royal property. Named after the birthplace of the Lord Buddha, the large green park has various activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Concerts are sometimes hosted here and you’ll find all amenities (including bathrooms and street food stalls) for a comfortable visit.

What to do there: Follow the walking trails around the park and look out for gigantic monitor lizards swimming through the lakes, skulking across the grass, and lazing in the tree branches. Birds twitter in the trees too, and the park is home to some 30 types of birds. You can rent a boat for a scenic ride on the water, admiring the reflections cast on the surface by the nearby skyscrapers.

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#7 – Wat Saket – A great place to see in Bangkok if you love architecture

• Hill-top temple
• Great city views
• Annual procession by candlelight
• The Golden Mount is beautifully illuminated at night

Why it’s awesome: Wat Sakat, also known as the Golden Mount, is one of Bangkok’s many beautiful temples. Sitting on an artificial hill, it is located at the highest ground point in Bangkok. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya era and it contains a sacred Buddhist relic brought to Thailand from Sri Lanka. The present temple building was built from marble in the 20 th century. Each November the temple is the scene of a spectacular candlelit procession where devotees wind their way up the hill with their candles twinkling in the darkness.

What to do there: Admire the golden chedi from the base of the small hill before following the shaded pathway up to the top. There are many interesting statues alongside the path, with trees and plants adding to the attractiveness. As you’re near the top you’ll come to a wall of bells—ring these bells for good luck.

You can climb even higher for more terrific vistas and see various statues and murals. When you descend the mountain pay a visit to the ancient cemetery at the bottom, the final resting place for many victims of the plague.

#8 – Erawan Museum – An awesome place in Bangkok for half a day!

• Striking architecture;
• Beautiful grounds;
• Huge art collection;
• Thought-provoking place.

Why it’s awesome: The Erawan Museum, located in nearby Samut Prakan, is one of Thailand’s masterpieces by Mr Lek Viriyaphant. Built to be visually appealing, showcase art, and encourage people to question spirituality and their beliefs of the world and creation, it is definitely one of Bangkok’s most whimsical and amazing attractions. The centrepiece is a circular pink three-storey building that is topped with a huge three-headed elephant. Based on Hindu ideas of cosmology, the three levels represent the underworld, earth, and heaven.

What to do there: Feast your eyes on the fascinating building with its three-headed bronze elephant and stand at the base of the wooden staircase, admiring the encrusted stucco balustrade. Wander around the ground level where you’ll find carved wooden pillars that depict various scenes from several major world religions. The overall level of craftsmanship is incredible.

Climb the steps, and be blown away by the huge colourful skylight. Peek out of a small window for views across the site and continue skywards to reach the level that represents heaven. You can also see a large Buddha footprint and a grand historic wooden chair. In the lower level, there are many more statues and art pieces, along with diverse collections of rocks from around the nation.

#9 – Sky Bar @ Lebua – Great place in Bangkok for couples!

• One of the highest rooftop bars across the world
• Sophisticated and elegant vibe
• Fabulous views across Bangkok
• Delicious signature drinks and cocktails

Why it’s awesome: The Sky Bar at Lebua is one of the world’s highest sky bars. Swanky, stylish, and sophisticated, it’s an ideal place for lovers to enjoy a romantic night out. The views take in many of Bangkok’s highlights, with the Chao Phraya River snaking in the distance. Soft music fills the air, and there’s often a live pianist. There are indoor and outdoor seating areas and you can enjoy a wide assortment of drinks with imported items on the menu. The famous bar appeared in the popular movie Hangover II.

What to do there: Dress up glamorous (there’s a strict dress code) and ride the elevators up to the 64 th floor for a romantic drink with awesome vistas. Try the signature Hangovertini, a cocktail inspired by the famous film. Alternatively, you’ll also find a range of global beers and wines and other popular cocktails on the exclusive menu. Try and time your visit just before dusk—that way you can admire the daytime views of Bangkok and watch as the sun sets over the Thai capital and then enjoy views of the city in the dark.

#10 – Bangkok National Museum – A fascinating educational place in Bangkok

• One of the biggest museums in Southeast Asia
• Home to a large collection of art and artefacts
• Great place to learn more about Thai history
• Connection to Thai royalty

Why it’s awesome: Housed in an old Royal Palace, Bangkok National Museum is one of the most stunning places in Thailand . There are three main buildings: Buddhaisawan Chapel, The Red House, and Siwamokhaphiman Hall. Home to the biggest collection of Thai art and historical objects in all of Thailand, the museum also contains striking art from other places around Southeast Asia. Displays are well ordered and there are good explanations and descriptions in English. One of the biggest museums in the region, it dates back to the 1870s having been established by King Rama V to display gifts and memorabilia from his late father.

What to do there: Plan to spend a few hours discovering the various displays across the museum’s three main areas. Learn more about Thailand’s past in Siwamokhaphiman Hall, with items that go from the Sukhothai era right up to the Rattanakosin period, and see beautiful murals and a large Buddha statue in Buddhaisawan Chapel. Visit the chariot hall to see carriages that used to be used in royal ceremonies, see masks used in traditional Thai puppetry, admire ornate ceramics, view old clothes, and more.

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#11 – Khao San Road – A must visit place in Bangkok on the weekend!

• Bangkok’s famous backpacker area
• A major place for nightlife
• Affordable prices
• Large selection of bars, eateries, and cheap accommodations

Why it’s awesome: Khao San Road is the city’s most famous nightlife area and definitely one of the liveliest places in Bangkok. Located fairly close to the city’s historical heart, it’s a preferred area in Bangkok for budget backpackers, since there are also many must-see places nearby. In addition to that, there are plentiful restaurants that serve traditional Thai dishes and international favourites, an assortment of bars and clubs, as well as budget accommodations. I recommend Here Hostel , which is a 10-minute walk from the Khao San Road madness.

The street is pretty lively by day, but it really comes into its own come nighttime when music blares from the bars, people drink and dance in the streets, street performers try to get tips from the crowds, and vendors try to tempt people with street eats and cheap drinks.

What to do there: Although busy on all nights of the week, Khao San Road is especially lively at the weekends, with tourists, ex-pats, and locals coming together for nights of fun and revelry. Stroll along the street and browse the souvenirs and clothes, perhaps sipping on a cool beer or famous whisky bucket as you decide where to go first. Hop between the different bars, each with its own vibe; whether you want to chill or go wild, Khao San Road has a bar for all tastes and it’s a pretty safe area to go for a night out. Listen to live music and dance the night away in one of the clubs. The atmosphere is laid back and there’s no need to dress up fancy—unless you want to!

#12 – Wat Puet Udom – One of the most incredible free places in Bangkok

• Fascinating insights into Thai Buddhist beliefs
• Hell temple
• No admission charge
• Off-the-beaten-track attraction

Why it’s awesome: Wat Puet Udom can be found in Pathom Thani, just a short way from central Bangkok. The temple offers something a bit different to the norm and is sure to be different to other temples that you’ve seen around the Thai capital. The grounds are filled with large and colourful statues, but the real highlight is exploring the section dedicated to Buddhist hell. Learn about Thai beliefs connected to the underworld, and see what people will believe the punishments in the afterlife for various earthly transgressions. Descriptions are provided in English for the avoidance of any doubt! Animatronic displays add to the eerie feeling and it’s definitely one of the most unusual places to visit around Bangkok. Plus, as an added bonus, it’s completely free!

What to do there: It’s an amazing place in Bangkok that simply needs to be explored. See the large glittery temple building at the heart of the temple complex and stroll through the grounds to see large and unusual statues. There’s a guardian of the underworld riding on the back of a gigantic rooster, human forms with animal heads, mermaids and other mythical creatures, and even a large plane. Buy a bag of food to feed the fish in the river to gain merit and admire the river views.

#13 – Siam Niramit – One of the best places to visit in Bangkok at night

• Large and colourful cultural show
• Opportunities to learn more about rural Thai life and regional traditions
• Delicious cuisine
• Fantastic place to spend a fun evening

Why it’s awesome: Siam Niramit in Bangkok is one of the biggest stage productions in the world. The enlightening and captivating show features stunning sets and beautiful costumes and takes people on an exciting journey through Thai history, culture, and traditions. The show also highlights different parts of the country, providing insights into Thailand’s different regions. There are three acts: Journey Back into History, Journey Beyond Imagination, and Journey Through Joyous Festivals. Special effects, lighting, and music create an electric atmosphere. There’s plenty to enjoy before the show too, with a mini Thai village, places to eat and shop, small performances, and other varied attractions.

What to do there: Book the package that includes dinner and arrive early (and hungry!) to enjoy a tasty Thai feast. Walk around the miniature Thai village, complete with wooden buildings on stilts, to see a variety of crafts, lifestyles, and costumes. Actors and actresses bring the scenes to life and demonstrate different skills of old. Feed the elephants, take a boat ride, watch as traditional snacks are prepared, listen to musicians, and watch dance shows.

#14 – Thonburi Canals – A nice quiet place in Bangkok

• Take a relaxing boat ride along the floating markets
• See a different side of this hectic city
• Experience Thai life of old
• Get up close to everyday Thai culture at the floating markets

Why it’s awesome: Once upon a time, Bangkok was crisscrossed by canals and waterways, essential for trade and transportation. Over time, many canals were filled in and more roads were built. The Khlongs (canals) of Thonburi, however, still offer a pleasant glimpse into the old Bangkok. Peaceful waterways run through the area, lined with homes, temples, and gardens. The Bangkok floating markets still operate on certain days of the week too, and vendors seek to sell their wares by boat at all times, paddling from house to house with an assortment of goods. Life is quiet around the Thonburi canals and it offers a completely different perspective of the otherwise bustling city – definitely one of the more interesting places in Bangkok.

What to do there: Several operators run boat trips around Thonburi’s canals, though you can also charter your own long-tail boat for a more intimate and personalised exploration of the floating markets. Sit back and relax as you soak up the waterside scenes; drift past local homes, see the small rowing boats that people use to get around, and wave to excitable children on the water’s edge. The Royal Barge Museum, another cool place in Bangkok, is well worth a quick stop, filled with impressive vessels, and you can watch a traditional puppet show at the Artist’s House.

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#15 – Chinatown – A perfect place in Bangkok if you are on a budget!

• Authentic Chinese fare
• Interesting architecture
• Cultural experiences
• One of the world’s biggest Chinatowns

Why it’s awesome: Established in the 1780s, Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of the biggest Chinatowns across the globe. Once a major trading area, Chinatown is now a thriving hub of Chinese culture and traditions. A great place in Bangkok for foodies! There are many restaurants and stalls selling a huge selection of authentic Chinese dishes. There’s plenty of cool architecture too, including old movie theatres, temples, and a ceremonial archway. Shophouses line the streets and the pavements are crowded with pedestrians and stalls. The vibe is energetic and you’ll find shops selling everything from affordable electronics and cheap clothing to traditional Chinese herbal remedies and gold. It’s a fantastic area to explore on foot, and many of the sights are free!

What to do there: Walk along the busy Yaowarat Road, immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle. You’ll likely be tempted by all the food offerings; come in the evening for a huge array of mouth-watering treats! Visit Wat Traimit, home to the biggest solid gold Buddha statue in the world, take pictures of the colourful and ornate Chinatown Gate, and hunt for bargains along the narrow Sampeng Lanes and its overflowing market stalls.

Don’t miss visiting Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, Bangkok’s most important Chinese temple. It has elements from Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian practices and you’ll see people lighting incense, making merit, and praying to various deities. Watch a traditional dance show at the historic Sala Chalermkrung theatre and unwind in the pleasant fountain-filled and leafy Romaneenart Park.

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#16 – Patpong – A wild place to see in Bangkok!

• Bangkok’s original red light district
• Large market
• Busy nightlife area
• Adult entertainment

Why it’s awesome: It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Patpong is one of the best places to experience Bangkok’s famous adult side. One of the city’s major red-light districts, it is also a fun place for a night out. The bars welcome groups of friends and couples and, while it’s certainly there if you’re seeking it, there’s no need to feel obliged to indulge in any of the adult-centred fun that Patpong is known for. There’s a large night market too, which helps to draw tourists from all walks of life to the area.

What to do there: Peruse the large selection of goods at Patpong Night Market, where you’ll find everything from novelty gadgets and slogan t-shirts to crafts from the hill tribes of Northern Thailand and typical souvenirs. Be sure to haggle if you want to buy anything, as prices are often over-inflated. Experience Bangkok’s adult-focused night scene in one of the beer bars or go-go bars, and watch as people shimmy against poles and perform erotic dances on the stages. Be cautious of scams, however, and always check prices beforehand.

#17 – Jim Thompson House Museum – One of the most underrated places to see in Bangkok

• Peaceful museum
• Former home of the Thai Silk King
• Traditional architecture
• Learn about the Thai silk industry

Why it’s awesome: Jim Thompson House Museum is the former home of the mystery-surrounded silk magnate often referred to as the Thai Silk King. American-born Jim Thompson helped to revolutionise the Thai silk industry, bringing the gorgeous silk products to the world while providing much-needed work for rural Thai families. The house was built in the 1950s in a traditional Thai style using old teak buildings from various parts of the country. The old wooden buildings were reassembled and repurposed in their present Bangkok site. Surrounded by lush garden and alongside a canal, the charming buildings contain Thompson’s extensive art collection and Buddhist statues.

What to do there: Step into a green oasis in the heart of Bangkok, feeling as though you’ve been transported to a small jungle far from the city crowds. Wander through the verdant gardens and enjoy the calm and tranquil atmosphere. Watch as people demonstrate traditional silk weaving techniques and learn more about the silk production process, and see people performing graceful Thai dancing. View the large collection of art and religious memorabilia, with items from all across Thailand and the wider Southeast Asian region.

#18 – Giant Swing – One of the more unique places to visit in Bangkok!

• Once used in ancient ceremonies
• Unusual attraction
• Free to see
• Gorgeous quiet temple

Why it’s awesome: The Giant Swing is a towering red frame in front of the sparkling Wat Suthat and one of the lesser-visited places in Bangkok. The swing was once used in ancient Brahmin religious ceremonies and there are old pictures showing the swing in action. Built-in the 1780s, the swing was moved to its current location in 1920. It was used for religious rituals until the 1930s. Made from teak wood, the frame stands at more than 30 metres (98 feet) high. Wat Suthat is an impressive temple, though it sees fewer visitors than Bangkok’s major temples so still retains a peaceful and spiritual air. It has beautiful wooden carvings, striking murals, and large Buddha statues.

What to do there: Gaze up at the Giant Swing and let your imagination take you back to the times when it played a vital role in religious ceremonies. See black and white photographs showing the swing in use. Explore the handsome Wat Suthat, which is among Bangkok’s oldest temples, and admire the glorious murals that show scenes from the Ramakien. See the large golden seated Buddha statue in the main hall and more than 150 statues of the Lord Buddha around the walls of the cloister. Absorb the spiritual feeling and sit for a while in quiet contemplation.

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#19 – Koh Kret – One of the nicer places in Bangkok to sightsee!

• Scenic river island
• Home to a Mon ethnic community
• Known for pottery making
• Historic attractions and markets

Why it’s awesome: Koh Kret is a small river island, created in the early 1720s when a canal was constructed and cut off the land completely. Historically home to people from the Mon ethnic group, the island is famous for its long pottery heritage. There are active pottery-making workshops on the island still, complete with large kilns and showrooms where you can buy the delicate pieces. The island has a rustic vibe and offers a glimpse into a way of life that is hard to find elsewhere in the hectic city. There are museums and temples to explore too, and you’ll find peaceful places to eat alongside the river.

What to do there: Catch a boat to Koh Kret island and explore by foot or rented bicycle. Follow the circular track around the island, pausing to visit several places of interest along the route. See stunning ceramics in the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum and watch all stages of the pottery-making process in one of the small workshops around the island. Purchase locally made terracotta items in the market or at one of the many shops. The market also sells a selection of trinkets, handicrafts, and souvenirs, and you’ll find several snacks and food products here that can be difficult to source elsewhere.

#20 – Condom Museum – One of Bangkok’s most unique attractions

• Quirky museum
• Aims to raise awareness of sexual health
• Educational experience

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2010, the Condom Museum is one of the more unusual attractions and definitely a unique place to visit in Bangkok. Located in Nonthaburi, the museum seeks to shed light on sexual health matters, encourage condom use, and promote safe sex. The museum is free to visit. The museum contains a fascinating collection of condoms from all over the world, with those that have been made in recent times and those that seem archaic compared to today’s products. There are also informative displays related to the history, manufacture, and marketing of condoms. Fun fact: did you know that Thailand is one of the world’s biggest makers of condoms?!

What to do there: Step into the world of sexual health and see a mind-blowing assortment of condoms in various colours and sizes. Learn more about the condom and why its use is important for good sexual health. Posters adorn the walls and displays also include other sex-related items, such as lubricant and penis pumps. You’re sure to be amazed in the testing room, where people demonstrate just how tough condoms actually are!

#21 – Queen Sirikit Park – A beautiful and scenic place to visit in Bangkok

• Large green park with diverse plants and flowers
• Offers respite from the city’s hustle and bustle
• Home to pools, fountains, and other water features
• Royal connections

Why it’s awesome: Sitting on a former golf course, Queen Sirikit Park opened in 1992 and was named to celebrate Queen Sirikit’s 60 th birthday. The beautiful botanical garden boasts several hundred species of plants and flowers, with an abundance of water plants in the ponds. Waterlilies, lotuses, hibiscus, palms, roses, bamboo, and banana trees are just a few plants within the park, and the rich variety helps to attract many birds, butterflies, and insects. A lovely place to enjoy nature, the park has formal gardens, walking trails, fountains, statues, and areas dedicated to leisure pursuits.

What to do there: Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the large Queen Sirikit Park, admiring the various plants and flowers, pausing to appreciate the bright colours and fragrant scents. You can also learn more about Thailand’s native flora and how certain plants are important to the nation. Sit and relax next to the sparkling lotus- and lilly-filled ponds and take kids to the fun and hands-on Children’s Museum. There are plenty of food vendors close to hand if you’re in need of an energy boost.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Bangkok

What is Bangkok famous for?

Bangkok is famous for its nightlife, street markets and temples.

What should you not miss in Bangkok?

If you only have a short time in Bangkok, you should make sure to visit Wat Saket which is the most impressive temple in the city.

What is the most interesting place to visit in Bangkok?

The Wat Yannawa is one of the most interesting places to visit in Bangkok, being a temple in the shape of a boat.

What is the best place to visit in Bangkok for couples?

Couples will love the romantic atmosphere at Sky Bar @ Lebua.

Bangkok is an exciting city with something going on at almost all times of the day and night. A top city for foodies, shopaholics, culture seekers, history lovers, urban explorers, and party animals – there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit in Bangkok . Families, friends, couples, and solos will all find more than enough to keep them enthralled in the City of Angels.

Since there is so much to see and explore, make sure you come up with a rough itinerary before you start your travels, so you won’t miss out on anything. Tick off these best places to visit in Bangkok for a diverse, fun-filled, and action-packed stay!

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A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Clair Cathryn

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Interesting list of activities in Bangkok. I especially love the markets in this city.

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