Planning a trip to Thailand and not sure exactly how to plan the best itinerary? Having been there plenty of times, we know exactly what to do in 2 weeks in Thailand.
This guide will help you make the best plan for your Thailand trip. We followed this Thailand itinerary with our own visitors and they had a great couple of weeks around this country.
After living in Chiang Mai for about two years, we had lots of friends and family come and visit Thailand.
You could say we became, somewhat, experts in playing tour guides and taking people to the top cities and attraction in Thailand.
This Thailand itinerary is a result of putting together all of the great adventure activities along with some of the most chill and relaxing destinations.
You can customize this to just one week or expand it for more time exploring the country (we give some bonus options in case you are staying for 3 weeks or you want to switch out some activities).
We’ll provide tips on how long to stay in each location and what to do there, including some general cost and budget information.
We know that travel regulations are changing all the time so make sure to check the Thai Embassy for updated information.
Here’s a quick summary of the cities we include on this 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary:
- Chiang Mai – 3 days of great street food, mountains, waterfalls and temples
- Koh Phi Phi – 2 days of beaches, island hopping on longtail boat, snorkeling, and party time
- Koh Lanta – 2 days of relaxation, more island visits and the best snorkeling in Thailand
- Koh Samui – 2 Days of jungle, viewpoints, and even some Muy Thai training
- Pai – 2 days of chill and fun in nature
- Chiang Rai – 2 days of adventure and some of the most unique temples
- Bangkok – 1 Day hitting up all the attractions
@togethertowhereve You need at least 2 weeks in Thailand but 3 weeks is even better. we spent one night in Bangkok and saw all the major sights the next day but 2 nights should do just fine. Then it was 3 nights in Koh Samui (or Koh Lanta for a quieter vibe), 2 Nights in Ao Nang, 5 nights in Chiang Mai (including 1 night at the treehouse, 1 night at the elephant sanctuary), 2 nights in Chiang Rai to see the White And Blue Temples.@togethertowherever #thailanditinerary #thailandtrip #thailandplacestogo #familydestination #thailandtraveltips #thailandtravel #southeastasia
♬ original sound – togethertowherever
For quick reference, you can find the best deals for places to stay on Booking.com.
I know a lot of people think they need to go straight to Bangkok, but I would recommend Chiang Mai as your first stop when visiting Thailand.
Unless you are the kind of person who absolutely loves big cities (and has prior experience in other international capitals), Bangkok way be a bit overwhelming on your first time in Thailand.
Spoiler alert: we totally recommend to skip Bangkok in this itinerary, but added a condensed version if you have 24hrs to spend there.But, if you do add Bangkok to your itinerary, make sure you visit the close byAyutthaya Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site) which are just over an hour drive north.
Some may disagree with this, but we will stick to our recommendation.
Additionally, we really love the north of Thailand so our suggestions would lean toward exploring more up there as it can also be less crowded (and great for nature lovers).
Don’t get me wrong, the islands are absolutely gorgeous and I can understand that some travelers visiting to get away from the snow in the country they live in may prefer that.
By all means, customize this itinerary to suit your needs. After all, traveling to Thailand is quite a trek, especially if you are coming from the Western Hemisphere!
Contents
[hide]
[show]
Days 1 to 3 In Chiang Mai – What To Do In North Thailand
Chiang Mai is a big town without all of the craziness of Bangkok. It will help you ease into your holiday or vacation and give you some time to get adjusted.
One main issue may be jetlag. For those traveling to Thailand from the United States, it will be a difficult first day. The jetlag hits pretty hard.
Day 1 In Chiang Mai
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai: 3 Sis Guest House is right in front of one of the best temples in Chiang Mai.
There are some amazing AirBnB apartments available in Chiang Mai. Personally, we use AirBnB every time we visit and have loved the properties we’ve stayed at.
After checking into your guest house, drop off your bags, grab a bottle of water (you need to get hydrated after that long flight!), and start walking around the Old City.
If you arrive around the afternoon, I highly suggest you try to stay awake until, at least, eight or nine in the evening.
Suggestion: Chiang Mai has some of the best cafes, so maybe a cup of tea or coffee might help make it through the first afternoon. Whatever you do, stay away from the hotel so you are not tempted to take a nap!
Pro-Traveler Tip:If you can stay awake until later in the night on your first day in Thailand, you will have a better time adjusting to the time difference during the rest of your visit. You will thank me later!
To accomplish the task, you will need to stay active.
While your first instinct would be to check in at your hotel and take a nap. DON’T DO IT! You will end up sleeping until the middle of the night and waking up around 4 am..and the cycle will continue.
Check out thesetemplesin the old city:
- Wat Chedi Luang,
- Wat Phra Singh,
- Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple),
- Wat Lok Molee,
- Wat Phan Tao (Teakwood Temple and Monastery)
For Dinner: Street food in Thailand is not to be missed and one of the best places to start on your first time is the North Gate food stalls.
You’ll find lots of seating at each stall. Most stalls provide you with an English menu and some even have pictures of each food item, so it makes it a lot easier for foreigners.
Garlic pork and mushrooms in oyster sauce are a couple of our favorite dishes there!
Pro-Traveler Tip: Have your guest house front desk staff arrange for you to do a Thai Cooking class. Reservations need to be made in advance, so have the book it for the following day, in the evening.
In the evening, it’s time for a stroll through the Night Bazaar (open usually around sunset and closing at midnight). You’ll be able to get loads of your souvenir shopping done here.
If you get “peckish” as you roam from stall to stall, grab some snacks like banana rotee, Chiang Mai sausage, or fresh fruit smoothie. There’s even a McDonalds there if that’s your sort of thing.
The perfect way to end your visit to the Night Bazaar would be a massage.
There are several massage places along the main road. They are super inexpensive so treat yourself for making it through your first day in Chiang Mai (and staying up!).
Where to Eat breakfast on your first morning: Seascape Cafe in Nimman or check out our favorite list of cafes.
Day 2 In Chiang Mai
What to do on your second day in Chiang Mai: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (temple on top of the mountain).
Best Way To Get To Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Flag down a red truck that doesn’t have any passengers. Negotiate a price (depending on how many people you are total and how long you want to stay at the temple and have them wait for you to drive you back).
Generally it would cost around 800 baht for the round-trip and an hour waiting at the temple.
Alternatively, you could just take a ride there and then get another Red Truck back down when you are done with your visit to the temple.
Once you return back to town, you can enjoy lunch at pretty much any of the restaurants in the Old City.
The restaurants in that area cater to the foreign tourists and usually have both Western and Thai dishes on the menu.
Now it should be time for you to attend your cooking class. We have done Thai Cooking classes several times and enjoyed it with our visiting family each time.
Keep in mind that the class probably starts around 4 or 5pm and you’ll be done making your food by around 7pm.
Day 3 In Chiang Mai
Visit a couple of waterfalls on your third day in Chiang Mai!
But first, some good breakfast at Rosemary Cafe in the Nimman Neighborhood.
Rent a motorbike for the day (you can also take a Red Truck if you prefer) and check out Huay Kaew Waterfall. This waterfall is the closes one to the Old City and the visit should be pretty quick.
Head over to Maesa Waterfall next. This waterfall has it all. You can hike, picnic, and swimming the rest of the day away.
Alternatively, you can spend the day with elephants at the Chai Lai Orchid (Elephant nature park and hotel): feed them snacks, take a dip in the river and splash them, learn what it takes to take care of these retired and rescued elephants for the day.
This was our favorite and most memorable experience in Chiang Mai with the whole family!
Want more Chiang Mai activities? Check out our full article here.
Bonus Option: Doi Inthanon day trip. Can your Thailand itinerary really be complete without a visit to Thailand’s highest peak? Here are some other options for taking a day trip from Chiang Mai.
Days 4 To 5 – Things To Do In Phi Phi Island
Catch an early flight to Krabi from Chiang Mai so that you can catch an afternoon ferry to Koh Phi Phi and have your feet in the sand by late afternoon.
Day 4 – Koh Phi Phi
Take a long tail boat to Maya Bay: Taking a long-tail boat to Maya Bay from Koh Phi Phi is a must-do experience for travelers exploring the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand.
This stunning bay, famously featured in the movie “The Beach,” is known for its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and breathtaking limestone cliffs.
Departing from the main pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, you’ll embark on a scenic journey across the Andaman Sea, enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding islands.
As your long-tail boat approaches Maya Bay, the emerald waters and the crescent-shaped sandy beach will come into view, creating a postcard-worthy scene.
Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the pristine beach, surrounded by the dramatic cliffs that encircle this natural wonder.
It’s essential to choose a responsible tour operator who respects the fragile ecosystem of Maya Bay, as the area was once heavily impacted by tourism and has since undergone a restoration period to protect its unique beauty.
Once the sun sets on Koh Phi Phi, check out the island. There are no roads or cars on this tiny isle so you can walk pretty much the whole thing in one evening.
The island is for the young and the young at heart who want to socialize, drink, and enjoy the beach life. There are so many bars and restaurants on this island that you would think nothing else exists.
Actually, I always wonder where the locals who work at these bars and restaurants live? The only other structures there are hotels and guesthouses.
Several bars along the beach have fire dancers with a lot of talent. They are definitely worth checking out even if you are not into drinking. The entertainment is one of a kind!
Day 5 – Koh Phi Phi
A day at the beach is for sure in order when you’re on a tropical island. Splash in the warm water. Relax with your toes in the sand.
At sunset, take a hike! Seriously!
You don’t want to miss the sunset from the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint.
Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi: PP Charlie Beach Resort
Bonus Option: Visiting Hong Island or James Bond Island from Koh Phi Phi offers an opportunity to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic natural wonders.
While Hong Island is renowned for its stunning lagoon and emerald waters, James Bond Island, officially known as Koh Tapu, gained fame as a filming location for a James Bond movie.
To reach these attractions from Koh Phi Phi, you can book a guided tour or take a combination of ferries and speedboats.
The journey itself is an adventure, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking Andaman Sea scenery.
Once you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the dramatic limestone formations, hidden lagoons, and crystal-clear waters.
Whether you’re kayaking through the mangroves at Hong Island or marveling at the iconic rock formations at James Bond Island, these day trips from Koh Phi Phi promise memorable experiences amidst the natural beauty of Thailand’s southern archipelago.
Days 6 to 7 In Koh Lanta – Thailand Island Hopping
Day 6 – What to do in Koh Lanta:
- Wander the Lanta Old Town and do some shopping
- Tour Koh Lanta National Parkby motorbike
- Emerald Caveat Koh Muk
- Explore the beaches
- Sunset co*cktails at Reggae Bar
Day 7 – Koh Lanta
Our top recommendation – book the 4 island tour– it includes lunch and is a great value. You’ll experience some amazing snorkeling and visit an uninhabited island!
Hotels In Koh Lanta:
- Crown Lanta Resort – check out our full hotel review here.
- La Lanta Hideaway – See our experience in this article.
Pro Traveler Tip – How to ferry over to Koh Lanta from Koh Phi Phi: contact Arunsiri Travel & Tour via e-mail arunsiri.travel@gmail.com or phone: (+66) 081-892-2656
Days 8 to 9 In Koh Samui Island
Getting from Koh Lanta to Koh Samui involves a combination of ferry and land transportation, as both islands are located on opposite sides of the mainland with no direct boat connections.
Here’s a general guide on how to make this journey:
- Koh Lanta to Krabi or Trang: Your first step is to get back to the mainland. You can take a ferry or speedboat from Koh Lanta to either Krabi or Trang, depending on your preference and schedule. Krabi is a more common choice, and it offers more transportation options.
- Krabi to Surat Thani or Donsak: From Krabi, you’ll need to travel by land to reach the nearest ferry ports, which are either Surat Thani or Donsak. You can take a bus, minivan, or taxi to either of these towns. The journey typically takes a few hours, and it’s advisable to book your transportation in advance through a local travel agency or your accommodation.
- Ferry to Koh Samui: Upon reaching Surat Thani or Donsak, you can board a ferry to Koh Samui. The ferry ride takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. There are different ferry operators and options available, including high-speed catamarans or slower car ferries.
- Arrival in Koh Samui: The ferry will usually arrive at one of Koh Samui’s main piers, such as Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Pier. From there, you can easily find transportation to your final destination on the island, whether it’s a hotel, resort, or another part of Koh Samui.
Day 8: Exploring Koh Samui
- Morning: Breakfast at Outrigger Resort. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your resort to energize for the adventure ahead.
- Viewpoint Visit: Head to the famous Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to admire the panoramic views from the viewpoint nearby.
- Next, go on a Secret Garden Trek. Venture into the hills and hike to the “Secret Garden” hidden in the jungle. This is a moderate hike, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. For this, we recommend renting a car (for families) or a motorbike for couples or solo travelers. A car is more ideal for the uphill ride.
- Lunch in Fisherman’s Village: After visiting the temple, make your way to Fisherman’s Village in Bophut for a delightful seafood lunch by the beach. Try a local restaurant like Coco Tam’s or Happy Elephant for a taste of Thai cuisine.
- Afternoon: Muay Thai Training. Get active and learn some Muay Thai moves with a family-friendly Muay Thai lesson. You can book a session at a local gym or resort offering this experience.
- Relaxing Massage: After your workout, reward yourselves with a relaxing Thai massage at a reputable spa. Places like Tamarind Springs Forest Spa or Let’s Relax Spa offer a tranquil environment.
- Evening Dinner at Outrigger Resort: Return to your resort for dinner or explore some local dining options nearby.
Where to stay in Koh Samui: We loved our stay at the Outrigger Resort in Lamai. The location was quiet and within walking dsitance to great food and massage spots!
Day 9: Island Adventures In From Koh Samui
- Koh Madsum (Pig Island) Tour: Join a day tour to Koh Madsum to interact with adorable pigs and relax on the pristine beaches. Activities may include snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply basking in the sun. As part of the tour you’ll be taken by boat to nearby Tean Island for lunch!
- Dinner: Have dinner at a restaurant of your choice, or try some street food stalls for a taste of local flavors at the local night market.
This 2-day itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities to make the most of your visit to Koh Samui. Enjoy your trip!
Bonus Option: Visiting Koh Tao from Koh Samui is an exciting island-hopping adventure in the Gulf of Thailand. To reach Koh Tao, you can take a ferry from one of Koh Samui’s piers, such as Mae Nam Pier or Nathon Pier.
The ferry ride offers scenic views of the turquoise waters and lush surroundings.
Upon arrival at Koh Tao, you’ll discover a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with an abundance of marine life and beautiful coral reefs.
Whether you’re seeking underwater exploration, relaxing on stunning beaches, or enjoying the island’s laid-back atmosphere, a day trip or an extended stay on Koh Tao is a delightful addition to your Koh Samui itinerary.
Pro-Traveler Tip – Keep in mind that the “Fall and Winter Months” tend to be the rainy season on this side of Thailand. We visited Koh Samui at the end of November and experienced periods of rain during the days, while northern Thailand and the Koh Lanta side tend to be dry at this time of year.
Days 10 To 11 – Pai, Thailand Itinerary
After a bit of island hopping, it’s time to fly back to northern Thailand. Fly from Koh Samui direct to Chiang Mai and take a shuttle from Chiang Mai to Pai.
Pai has some of the most chill vibes you can experience in Thailand. Surrounded by mountains, the Pai valley is a great opportunity to get close to nature.
We wrote a detailed article of activities for visiting Pai, but here is a summary below.
Day 10: Pai
Trek Pai Canyon and Sunset at Big Buddha.
Day 11: Pai
ThePai Land Split, Waterfalls by motorbike, Cafe with views.
Where To Stay In Pai, Thailand: Reverie Siam is the best in luxuryaccommodations. Read our full review.
Days 12 To 13 – Chiang Rai
Itinerary For Days 12-13: To travel from the charming town of Pai to the city of Chiang Rai in northern Thailand, you’ll embark on a scenic but somewhat lengthy journey.
- First, you’ll need to make your way from Pai to Chiang Mai. This can be done by taking a minibus, local bus, or private transportation, and the journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, winding through picturesque landscapes and mountain roads.
- In Chiang Mai, you can find various transportation options, including buses, minibuses, or flights to Chiang Rai. The most convenient choice is often a direct bus, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai.
Day 12 – Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is another beautiful Northern Thai city that is a must see. It’s a smaller version of Chiang Mai, but with a lot of character.
The unique thing about Chiang Rai is that it offers a lot of really amazing day trips. You can stay in Chiang Rai and see:
- The famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
- Clock Tower
- Cat Cafe
- Chiang Rai Night Market
Day 13 – Chiang Rai
One of your days in Chiang Rai should be dedicated to making a trip to Phu Chi Pha.
It requires waking up super early to get there before sunrise, but we’ve seen some incredible footage of what you can see from up there (the fog didn’t allow us to see anything at the time we visited, though!).
The Golden Triangle is close by as well and worth visiting if you have the time.
Where To Stay Chiang Rai:Hi Chiangrai Hotel
Day 14 In Bangkok – Back To Southern Thailand
Visiting all the top attractions in Bangkok in one day is a tight schedule, but it’s possible if you start early and plan your day efficiently. Here’s a one-day itinerary.
1. Morning: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Start your day at Wat Arun to admire its stunning architecture and intricate details. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Alternatively, you can visit during sunset.
Keep in mind that this will be a very busy time as a lot of people book photoshoots at this hour. There are photo studios that will provide Thai traditional attire for you to wear for your photo session at this temple.
2. Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple
Head to the nearby Grand Palace complex, which includes the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew). It’s essential to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees to enter these sacred sites.
Lunch Break: Find a local restaurant or street food vendor near the Grand Palace for a quick and delicious Thai lunch.
3. Afternoon: Flower Market (Pak Khlong Talat)
After lunch, take a taxi or public transportation like a tuk tuk to the Flower Market, where you can immerse yourself in a colorful array of fresh flowers and aromatic blooms.
4. The Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)
Continue your journey to Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha. Explore the temple’s extensive grounds, which include beautiful architecture, intricate murals, and a traditional Thai massage school.
5. Khao San Road By Day Or Night
Visiting Khao San Road in Bangkok is an exhilarating experience that offers a vibrant taste of the city’s bustling street life and backpacker culture.
This famous thoroughfare in the heart of the Banglamphu district is a hub for budget travelers and backpackers, known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic street food stalls, and an array of affordable guesthouses and hostels.
By day, it’s a great place to shop for inexpensive souvenirs, try local street food like Pad Thai and mango sticky rice, and explore nearby cultural attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
By night, Khao San Road transforms into a lively party street with neon lights, live music, and bars offering buckets of co*cktails.
It’s a place where travelers from all over the world come together to socialize, making it an essential stop for those looking to experience the energetic and cosmopolitan side of Bangkok.
If you’re adventurous like us, try eating some fried scorpion here!
Dinner: For dinner, you can choose a restaurant near your accommodation or try street food (try the Pad Thai) at one of Bangkok’s famous night markets like Asiatique the Riverfront.
Pro-Traveler tip: Dine at one of the riverfront restaurants for a gorgeous view of Wat Arun all lit up across the water!
This one-day itinerary covers some of Bangkok’s top attractions, but keep in mind that you might have limited time at each location.
Consider starting your day very early to make the most of your visit, and be prepared for some walking and commuting between the sites.
We really hope that this two week itinerary and guide for visiting Thailand will be useful to you. Like I said, you can totally customize this to better suite you.
We think (and know) that this timeline of activities and locations is a wonderful way to get a taste of what Thailand has to offer.
Please let us know if you try this itinerary. We would love to know how it works out for you.
Share your comments and suggestions below!
