Use this Thailand itinerary for 5, 7, 10, 14 days + 3 weeks in Thailand

A realistic Thailand itinerary for different travel styles, trip duration, and budgets. If you like this itinerary suggestion for Thailand and need a personalized one, feel free to get in touch!

👋 Sà-wàt-dii! My name is Trisha, and I travel and lead group tours to Thailand annually. But I am not here to sell tours to you. I’m here to publicly share the itineraries I have personally done and itineraries for clients with special needs.

Thailand, fondly known as the Land of Smiles, boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and nature, making it an irresistible getaway for travelers of all stripes. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know that I am a slow traveler. However, you don’t need to be a slow traveler to visit Thailand thoroughly.

In this Thailand itinerary, we will explore the mesmerizing diversity of Thailand, from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of the Andaman Sea and from the lush green mountains of the north to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya.

We’ll dive into the country’s culinary delights, uncover hidden gems off the beaten path, and give you insider tips on making the most of your stay in one of my favorite Asian countries.

🙋 Questions about Thailand itinerary? Ask me on Tiktok!

✈️ Flights to Thailand

Flight costs to Thailand from the US, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom and Europe start in different prices. I’ve done USA to Thailand flights A LOT, and I am sorry to break it to you. There aren’t direct flights for this route.

There used to be, but from 2021, these direct flight routes stopped. From the US, the best way to get to Thailand is to fly through Tokyo, Japan (19 hours flight at $1,466 USD via American Airlines). This is already a 2-way flight and you will also need to stop in Tokyo on your way back to LA.

Those who are coming from Vancouver, Canada can check flights at EVA Air, valued at $1,878 USD or via KLM at $1,683 USD. The flight duration is also 19 hours just like the flight from Los Angeles, CA. This flight route has a 3 hours and 20 minutes layover in Taipei, Taiwan.

From the United Kingdom (Heathrow Airport), happy to tell you that flights are DIRECT! Eva Air flies from London (LHR) to Bangkok for as low as $952 USD (2-way), non-stop. This is really a good deal!

The same goes for flights from Sydney, Australia. They are also direct via Thai Airways with a 9 hour flight duration and this is only $723 USD for a 2-way flight.

Finally, Europe is big but I will only share flight prices from Madrid. I lived in Madrid and also did this route frequently. Qatar Airways flies this route with a 1 hour layover in Doha, Qatar. Prices start at $911 USD 2-way, which is a great price because Qatar Airways is one of the biggest airlines in the world (not a budget airline).

👋 Arrival in Bangkok

Day 1 is arrival in Bangkok from wherever you are flying. Make sure to pre-book a Bangkok Airport taxi one week before your arrival in Bangkok. There are many options to get to your hotel from Bangkok:

• VIP fast-lane at Bangkok immigration: from $71 USD
• Private taxi service: prices vary by group size
• Shared Bangkok Airport transfer: from $14 USD
• Electric vehicle to Bangkok center: from $38 USD

The distance from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to the city center of Bangkok is approximately 25-30 kilometers (15-19 miles), depending on your specific destination.

Traveling from the airport to the city center usually takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and mode of transportation. The Airport Rail Link is a convenient and fast option, taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center.

📅 Thailand itinerary 5 days

Whether 5 days is enough for a trip to Thailand depends on your interests, travel goals, and preferences. Thailand is a diverse country with a lot to offer, from bustling cities to tranquil beaches and ancient temples. While you can get a taste of Thailand in 5 days, you may not be able to explore the country in depth.

Here’s a sample 5-day Thailand itinerary to give you an idea of what you can do together with prices:

Day	To do
Day 1: Bangkok	Morning: – Arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok (from $14 USD) – Check-in at your hotel, freshen up, and have breakfast Afternoon: – Local street food ($2 USD) – Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha ($13 USD) Evening: – Dinner at a local Thai restaurant or street food market – River cruise on the Chao Phraya River with stunning views of the city skyline
Day 2: Bangkok	Morning -Breakfast at the hotel (FREE) – Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, for shopping and street food. Afternoon – Explore Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, and its impressive 46-meter-long statue. – Visit the Museum Siam for an interactive history of Thailand Evening – Dinner at one of Bangkok’s famous rooftop restaurants – Experience Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife on Khao San Road or a more laid-back atmosphere at Asiatique The Riverfront.
Day 3: Chiang Mai	Morning – Check out from your Bangkok hotel and take a flight to Chiang Mai. – Check-in at your hotel in Chiang Mai and have breakfast. Afternoon – Visit the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a sacred temple located on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. – Explore the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Evening – Visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for shopping, dining, and entertainment. – Try local Northern Thai cuisine for dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Day 4: Chiang Mai	Morning – Breakfast at the hotel. – Take a half-day excursion to the Elephant Nature Park for an ethical and educational elephant experience. Afternoon – Visit the Baan Tong Luang Hill Tribe Village to learn about the culture and way of life of various hill tribes in the region. Evening – Explore the Chiang Mai Old City and its ancient temples, such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. – Dinner at a local restaurant, trying local Chiang Mai delicacies like Khao Soi.
Day 5: Chiang Mai	Morning – Breakfast at the hotel. – Take a Thai cooking class to learn how to make traditional Thai dishes. Afternoon – Visit the Chiang Mai Art & Cultural Centre to learn about the city’s history and Lanna culture. – Relax at a local café or park in the city. Evening – Enjoy a traditional Khantoke dinner and cultural show, showcasing Northern Thai cuisine and dances. – Prepare for departure or continue with your onward journey.

This 5-day Thailand itinerary will allow you to explore both Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the most visited destinations in Thailand. This should be enough, but I understand that some of you may not want to fly within the country if you only have five days.

In this case, choose between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. If it is your first time in Thailand, I suggest you focus on Bangkok but if you’ve already been, Chiang Mai is a great destination, especially for both culture and outdoors!

🧭 Thailand itinerary 7 days

Seven days in Thailand can be enough, depending on your preferences and travel goals. Thailand has a lot to offer, and seven days will not be enough to explore and experience everything fully.

To maximize your 7-day trip, consider focusing on specific regions or activities that interest you the most. In this case, I did a Thailand itinerary of 7 days for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

Here’s a sample itinerary that can help you experience some of the best of Thailand in a week:

Day	To do
Days 1-2: Bangkok	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho – Explore the vibrant street markets and try local street food – Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit the floating markets – Visit the iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market
Day 3-4: Chiang Mai	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh – Explore the night markets for local handicrafts and street food – Learn about the traditional Lanna culture at the Lanna Folklife Museum – Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Thai dishes
Day 5-7: Phuket	– Visit the stunning beaches of Patong, Kata, and Karon – Explore the historic old town and visit the local temples – Take a boat tour to nearby islands such as Phi Phi Island and James Bond Island – Enjoy the local cuisine and visit the local markets

To understand how the logistics will work between these two cities, you need to fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The flight duration is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, and you can check cheap flights with AirAsia (from $28 USD, one-way).

From Chiang Mai to Phuket, a one-way flight costs $57 USD and the duration is 1 hour and 55 minutes. You would think that this can be exhausting to fly around but flying in Thailand is convenient and fast. The only thing you need to note is that Bangkok has heavy traffic so you may need to allot more time on going to the airport.

If three places does not work for you for a 7-day Thailand itinerary, feel free to remove Chiang Mai in this itinerary or choose between Phuket or Chiang Mai. But don’t skip Bangkok, especially if it’s your first-time in Thailand.

Given that you’ve decided not to skip Bangkok and choose between Chiang Mai and Phuket note that these two are so different in terms of things to see. Chiang Mai is more cultural and a digital nomad spot, while Phuket is a beach destination.

💵 How much will a 7 day trip to Thailand cost?

The cost of a 7-day trip to Thailand will vary depending on your budget and preferences. Accommodation, flights, and transportation will be the main expenses.

Depending on where you stay and your activities, you can expect to spend around $800 – $1,400 USD for seven days in Thailand. This does not include additional costs for food or souvenirs.

But this all depends on your daily budget and travel style. I am not saying that you should spend this amount money. To have an idea about how much will a 7-day trip to Thailand cost, check out my Thailand travel budget guide.

This budget guide discusses different budget tiers from $10 USD, $25 USD, $50 USD, $70 USD, and $100 USD budgets.

🗺️ Thailand itinerary 10 days

Ten days in Thailand gives you a bit more flexibility to explore the country’s rich culture, landscapes, and delicious cuisine. With an additional three days compared to a 7-day trip, you’ll have more opportunities to experience Thailand.

Here’s a suggested 10-day itinerary that covers a good mix of cultural sites, nature, and beach relaxation:

Day	To do
Day 1-3: Bangkok	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho – Explore the vibrant street markets and try local street food – Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit the floating markets – Visit the iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market
Day 4-6: Chiang Mai	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh – Explore the night markets for local handicrafts and street food – Learn about the traditional Lanna culture at the Lanna Folklife Museum – Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Thai dishes
Alternative to Chiang Mai: Day 4-6: Pai	– Explore the scenic town of Pai and visit the local temples – Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Pai Canyon and the nearby waterfalls – Visit the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine
Day 6-10: Phuket	– Visit the stunning beaches of Patong, Kata, and Karon – Explore the historic old town and visit the local temples – Take a boat tour to nearby islands such as Phi Phi Island and James Bond Island – Enjoy the local cuisine and visit the local markets

I put more days in Phuket here because I know you’d like to visit Thailand for the beaches. End your trip in Phuket as it is really a great destination for doing nothing.

Remember that Thailand has a lot of cultural sights so if you already did Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Pai, it is best to add a little beach destination to your 10-day Thailand itinerary.

Phuket has an international airport so you don’t have to go back to Bangkok to fly out to your next destination. And even if you do, the flights from Phuket to Bangkok is under $60 USD (one-way).

💲 How much money do I need for a 10 day trip to Thailand?

For a 10-day trip to Thailand, you will likely need to budget around $1,200 – $2,000 based on your accommodation preferences and chosen activities.

On top of this, you will also need to budget for food and souvenirs. Remember that costs may vary depending on the travel and activities you plan to do.

🧳 Thailand itinerary 14 days

Fourteen days in Thailand provides a more relaxed and immersive experience, allowing you to explore various regions and attractions. Two weeks will enable you to delve deeper into the country’s culture, history, nature, and beaches.

Here’s a suggested 14-day itinerary:

Day	To do
Day 1-3: Bangkok	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho Explore the vibrant street markets and try local street food – Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit the floating markets – Visit the iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market
Day 4-5: Ayutthaya	– Explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site – Visit the historic temples and ruins of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet – Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit the nearby Bang Pa-In Palace Alternatively, Ayutthaya can also be visited from Bangkok for a day trip so you don’t necessarily need to stay the night in Ayutthaya.
Day 6-7: Chiang Mai	– Visit the historic temples of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh – Explore the night markets for local handicrafts and street food – Learn about the traditional Lanna culture at the Lanna Folklife Museum – Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Thai dishes
Day 8-10: Chiang Rai	– Visit the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) – Explore the scenic town of Chiang Rai and visit the local temples – Visit the nearby Doi Mae Salong and enjoy the stunning views – Visit the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine
Day 11-13: Krabi	– Visit the stunning beaches of Ao Nang, Railay, and Phra Nang – Take a boat tour to nearby islands such as Koh Hong and Koh Poda – Visit the Tiger Cave Temple and enjoy the stunning views – Relax at the local hot springs and enjoy the natural beauty
Day 14: Bangkok	– Spend a final day in Bangkok exploring the city or doing any last-minute shopping – Visit some of the other attractions you may have missed on the first visit

I put more places in this Thailand itinerary 14 days because I know that some of you who plan 2-week trips want to visit as many places as possible in one country.

If you are a slow traveler like me and don’t want to be in multiple places for a short time, you can choose between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in this itinerary.

For you to have an idea if you want to include both, traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai takes 4 hours on a bus so that should be the deal breaker for you if you want to commute for 4 hours.

☀️ 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary

A three-week itinerary in Thailand allows you to explore the country at a more leisurely pace and visit a variety of regions, including popular destinations as well as off-the-beaten-path locations.

Here’s a suggested 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary:

Day	To do
Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok	– Check into your accommodation and explore the local area – Sample street food and get acquainted with Thai cuisine
Day 2-3: Bangkok	– Visit famous attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun – Explore other attractions, such as Jim Thompson House, the Erawan Shrine, or a river cruise on Chao Phraya River – Visit Chatuchak Weekend Market (if it’s a weekend) and other local markets
Day 4: Day trip from Bangkok	Consider visiting the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, or the Maeklong Railway Market
Day 5-6: Travel to Kanchanaburi	– Visit the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway Museum – Explore Erawan National Park and its waterfalls – Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or river rafting
Day 7-9: Chiang Mai	– Fly or take a train to Chiang Mai – Explore the old city, visit temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh – Take a day trip to an ethical elephant sanctuary or Doi Inthanon National Park – Explore more of the city, take a Thai cooking class, or visit local markets
Day 10-11: Chiang Rai	– Travel to Chiang Rai and visit the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) – Explore more of the region, visit the Golden Triangle, or consider a day trip to Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden
Day 12-13: Sukhothai	– Explore Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient temples and ruins – Rent a bicycle and explore more of the historical park or visit the nearby Si Satchanalai Historical Park
Day 15-18: Beach destination	Take day trips to nearby islands, such as Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, or the James Bond Island Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, or other water sports Explore local attractions and immerse yourself in beachside relaxation
Day 19-21: Bangkok	Return to Bangkok and explore any remaining attractions or do some shopping Take a day trip to Khao Yai National Park for hiking, wildlife spotting, and visiting waterfalls Visit any last-minute attractions or pick up souvenirs before heading to the airport for your departure

3 weeks in Thailand is ENOUGH and I bet that you have a long vacation leave from work that’s why you choose this number of days to visit Thailand.

✨ How do I plan a 7 day trip to Thailand?

Here are some golden tips on how to plan your Thailand itinearay:

Learn about the local culture

Thailand is known for its rich culture and friendly people. Take the time to learn a few basic phrases in Thai, such as hello (sawasdee) and thank you (khob khun), which can go a long way in connecting with locals.

Plan your Thailand itinerary around the weather

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season, generally from November to February. The hot season occurs between March and May, while the rainy season occurs from June to October. Keep these seasons in mind when planning your itinerary.

Prioritize ethical experiences

When considering activities such as visiting elephant sanctuaries, choose ethical establishments that prioritize animal welfare. Avoid participating in activities that exploit animals, such as elephant riding or attending animal shows.

Learn about regional cuisines

Thai cuisine varies by region, so take the opportunity to sample dishes unique to each area you visit. For example, Northern Thailand is known for dishes like khao soi (curried noodle soup), while Southern Thailand is famous for its spicy curries and seafood.

Opt for sustainable travel

Choose eco-friendly accommodations and activities that prioritize environmental conservation. Support local businesses and shop at markets that sell handmade goods, which helps sustain local communities.

Take advantage of public transportation

In cities like Bangkok, using public transportation such as the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and public buses can save you both time and money. Taxis and rideshare services are also available, but be cautious of potential scams.

Be temple-savvy

When visiting temples, dress modestly and respect the local customs. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and removing your shoes before entering a temple. Be mindful of where you point your feet, as it is considered disrespectful to point them at Buddha statues or other sacred objects.

Experience local festivals

Time your visit to coincide with one of Thailand’s many vibrant festivals, such as Songkran (Thai New Year) in April or Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights) in November. These events provide unique cultural experiences and photo opportunities.

Research lesser-known destinations

While popular destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket are well worth visiting, also consider exploring lesser-known locations such as Chiang Rai, Pai, or the Isaan region to experience more authentic Thai culture.

Be prepared for visa requirements

Check the current visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Thailand. Some travelers may be eligible for visa exemptions or visas on arrival, while others may need to apply for a visa in advance.

Prioritize safety and health

Take necessary precautions to protect your health while traveling, such as getting recommended vaccinations and bringing a travel first aid kit. Be cautious of street food hygiene, drink bottled water, and use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.

Respect local customs

Learn about and respect Thai customs, such as the wai (a traditional Thai greeting) and not touching people’s heads (considered a sacred part of the body). Respecting local customs will help you have a more enjoyable and culturally immersive experience.

⁉️ FAQ: Thailand itinerary

How many days is enough for Thailand?

There is no definitive answer to how many days is enough for Thailand as it really depends on what kind of activities and attractions you wish to experience. For a complete holiday, seven to ten days would be a reasonable amount of time, but if you are looking for a shorter trip, five or six days should be enough to explore the main sights.

There are many things to see and do in Thailand, such as relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, visiting bustling cities, and exploring ancient temples. Whatever type of vacation you have in mind, Thailand has something to offer everyone.

Is 7 days in Thailand enough?

7 days in Thailand is enough to explore the main attractions, experience some cultures and sample the delicious local cuisine. You could easily visit several cities and towns, see some impressive temples, try different activities, and relax on the stunning beaches.

Depending on your interests, you might want to choose activities that require more time, such as trekking or island hopping. Alternatively, if you are looking for a shorter trip, you can still make the most out of seven days by choosing specific sights or activities that fit your schedule.

Can you see Thailand in 2 weeks?

Yes, you can see a lot of Thailand in 2 weeks. A more extended stay will allow you to explore more of the country and participate in activities requiring more time, such as trekking or island hopping.

You could easily visit several cities and towns, see impressive temples, explore different markets and relax on the stunning beaches.

Depending on your interests, you could also make day trips to historical sites or participate in adventure sports such as kayaking or snorkeling. Whatever type of vacation you are looking for, two weeks in Thailand is enough for you to know local cultures, beaches, and cities.

What is the best month to travel to Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand depends on what kind of activities and experiences you want to have. From November to February, the weather is cooler and dryer making it a great time for beach trips and island hopping.

March to May is the hottest season, so it is better suited for outdoor activities such as jungle treks or temple visits. June to October is monsoon season, but many attractions can still be enjoyed during this time. Ultimately, the best month to travel to Thailand will depend on your preferences and interests!

Is it worth flying to Thailand for a week?

Yes, a week in Thailand can be well worth it! You can easily visit several cities and towns and see some of the country’s impressive temples. You can also explore bustling markets and relax on the stunning beaches.

Depending on your interests, you could make day trips to historical sites or participate in adventure sports such as kayaking or snorkeling. Ultimately, depending on what type of experiences you are looking for, a week in Thailand can create an unforgettable trip!