Thailand has easily become one of the top travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Known for its white sand beaches, famous long tail boats, detailed temples and incredible street food, Thailand has something to offer to everyone. Many people have asked for my recommendations to help plan their dream vacation, so I decided to share my exact route I planned for my first visit to Thailand. Now, 2 weeks in Thailand is nowhere near enough time to see everything, but this itinerary highlights some of the best things you can see and do in this country. By no means am I a Thailand travel expert, however after planning the trip of a lifetime for almost a year and traveling throughout Thailand for a few weeks, I’ve put together recommendations based on things I personally did. I hope that my version of the ultimate Thailand travel guide helps you plan your upcoming trip!
QUICK TIPS
- Currency: Thai Baht
- Visa: US, UK and EU citizens carrying a tourist passport and in possession of an onward or return airline ticket DO NOT require a visa to enter Thailand. The passport must have at least six months validity remaining to be allowed entry. For more specific information click here.
- Language: Thai
- Travel Insurance: Thailand is a pretty safe country, however regardless you should invest in travel insurance when traveling anywhere in the world. I personally use World Nomads, as they come highly recommended. If you plan on riding scooters in Thailand, you should strongly consider travel insurance and check your personal insurance policy on coverage.
- Electrical: 220V AC electricity. Bring a universal travel adapter so you can use all your electronic devices, especially you ladies who use hot tools on their hair.
WHEN TO VISIT THAILAND
The weather in Thailand can be broken down into three parts:
Rainy – May – October
Cool – November – February
Hot – March – May
The best time to visit any area in Thailand is December to March. Not bothered by rain? Then the rainy season has its advantages, as there are less tourist and everything is typically cheaper. If you’re planning to island hop, then I would avoid monsoon season at all cost.
WHAT TO PACK
Despite having different seasons, the climate in Thailand is generally warm, with the exception of a few cooler months when in Northern Thailand. With that in mind, make sure you bring light and airy clothing as well as a scarf or two for visiting temples and other religious sites. Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting temples.
- Maxi dresses
- Bathing Suits
- Cover up
- Shorts
- Tee Shirts
- Light Jacket for cooler weather
- Short Dresses
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sandals
- Leggings
- Tank Tops
- Sneakers
- Comfortable flats
- Purse or bag to carry items including photography equipment
TIP: Leave room in your suitcase to purchase clothing and other items once in Thailand. Clothing is very cheap and you can find some treasured items to take home as souvenirs that you will always cherish from your trip.
HOW TO TRAVEL THROUGHOUT THAILAND
There are many forms of transportation to get you around Thailand and all are pretty inexpensive.
- Airplane
- Taxi/Uber
- Songthaew
- Tuk Tuk
- Overnight bus
- Trains
- Speedboat
- Ferry
Thailand’s main international airport is located in Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is among the top ten busiest airports in Asia. Other major airports include Phuket International Airport (HKT) and Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). There are numerous smaller airports around the country, many only served by domestic routes. I booked a round trip flight from MIA to BKK as this was the most affordable and best flight option for my personal route.
Since we only had 2 weeks in Thailand and we wanted to make the most of our time, we took domestic flights between all stops of our itinerary. It is relatively cheap and it means you won’t lose an entire day or night to get from one point to the other. Once within a specific city or island you can use the other forms of transportation depending on your budget and preference.
MY ULTIMATE 2 WEEK THAILAND ITINERARY:
HERE’S A QUICK OVERVIEW OF ALL THE PLACES I TRAVELED TO DURING MY TIME IN THAILAND:
- Chiang Mai: 4 days (Included Day trip to Chiang Rai and Laos)
- Phuket: 3 days (Included trip to Koh Phi Phi)
- Krabi: 2 days (Included trip to Hong Island)
- Koh Samui: 3 days
- Bangkok: 3 days
WHY I CHOSE THIS ROUTE
Like I mentioned before, I flew into Bangkok and then grabbed a connecting flight straight to Chiang Mai (1 hour). One of the reasons I wanted to start in Chiang Mai was for the Loy Krathong Festival. This festival is highly recommend to experience at least once and I arrived the day before the festival took place. The rest of the trip went as follows:
- Flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket (2 hours)
- Private car from Phuket to Krabi (2.5 hours)
- Flight from Krabi to Koh Samui (1 hour)
- Flight from Koh Samui to Bangkok (1 hour)
Being able to see a little of the countryside as well as the big cities and the gorgeous islands gives you a sense and feel of the country overall. I highly recommend visiting various locations as they are all so different and each have something unique to offer.
Chiang Mai – 4 days
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Thailand making it home to some of the country’s most beautiful temples, landscapes and incredible restaurants and cafes. Due to its beauty, many refer to Chiang Mai as the “Rose of the North”. This is one city that should not be missed when visiting Thailand.
WHERE TO STAY
Bed Nimman is located in the vibrant Nimman Haemin district in Chiang Mai and features a garden with an outdoor swimming pool and a large sundeck. The hotel is located 15 minutes from the airport and surrounded by restaurants, bars and shopping. You can easily take a taxi or a tuk tuk to the Old City in less than 10 minutes.
Akyra Manor is an urban style, luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai surrounded by restaurants and bars. This hotel is 2 blocks from shopping and dining along Nimmanhaemin Road, and 15 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport. Don’t forget to visit the top floor, where you will find a rooftop terrace with a chic cocktail bar and an outdoor infinity pool.
SEE & DO IN CHIANG MAI
Attend a Festival – I personally planned my visit to Chiang Mai to coincide with Yi Peng festival in November. I watched the sky light up with hundreds of paper lanterns. As one of the most unique festivals in the world, being in Chiang Mai for Yi Peng & Loy Krathong Festivals is definitely worth planning around. If this is on your bucket list, then read here for more information on how to attend.
Visit the Night Bazaar and Sunday Market – This is a great spot to purchase elephant pants and Thai souvenirs. The Night Bazaar begins every night at 6pm, and takes place just east of the old walled city, on Chang Khlan road. Remember to bargain for your purchases. Even though the prices appear cheap you should always bargain. You can even bargain for a foot massage at the market! The Sunday Market, begins at 4 pm and is a large market located right in the centre of the old walled city area of Chiang Mai. Starting at the Tha Phae Gate at one end the Sunday Market extends down Ratchadamnoen Road. This allows shoppers to browse the goods on display, bargain with vendors for a good price
Visit Temples – Chiang Mai is full of amazing Buddhist temples, known as ‘Wats’. While Wat Doi Suthep is probably the most beautiful, the ones in the old city should not be missed either. I suggest visiting Wat Phra Singh, Wat Bupharam, Wat Pan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Umong.
Visit an Ethical Elephant Park – Northern Thailand is known for endless options when it comes to elephant parks, however that doesn’t mean they are all ethical. The unfortunate reality is that there is a very dark side to the tourism industry and it’s extremely important that you do your research prior to your visit. If a “sanctuary” allows you to ride the elephants, it is not ethical by any means! Sanctuaries should not allow ANY form of riding, painting or tricks! If there is one sanctuary that is committed to providing protection, shelter and love to these beautiful creatures it’s Elephant Nature Park. You can either visit the elephants in their natural environment or volunteer at Elephant Nature Park to help out around the sanctuary. I participated in the Sunshine for Elephants Program and spent the entire day with these beauties. You can read all about my experience here.
Thai Massage – Indulge in one of Chiang Mai’s many day spas! You can find spas literally everywhere. Spend an hour getting pampered and enjoy a foot massage after all that walking! The best part about spa treatments are the price! You can get an hour foot massage for less than 10 USD!
Day Trip to The White Temple – I decided to take a day trip from Chiang Mai to the city of Chiang Rai to see The White Temple because it was has been on my bucket list for a while. If you’re limited on time, like I was, then a day trip to see The White Temple is a great thing to do out of Chiang Mai. Read here to learn more about my specific trip to Chiang Rai.
WHERE TO EAT IN CHIANG MAI
SS1254372 Cafe
The Service 1921 Restaurant and Bar
Mango Tango
The Larder
Woo Cafe
Le Bistrot
Rustic and Blue
Phuket – 3 days
Phuket is known as the Pearl of the Andaman sea. Although, touristy and most people will tell you to skip Phuket, I think it should not be missed.
WHERE TO STAY
Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach is located on the sandy beach of Nai Yang, considered one of the most scenic areas of Phuket, surrounded with tropical vegetation and lush green forest within the Sirinath National Park. It is just a 10-minute drive from Phuket International Airport and adjacent to the old town of Nai Yang along with numerous natural attractions and scenic hot spots.
SEE & DO IN PHUKET
Day Trip to Koh Phi Phi – One of the best things you can do while in Phuket is visit some of the world famous islands on a speedboat tour. Phuket is an awesome destination to visit as it allows you to take a few quick day trips to near by island like the Phi Phi Islands, located on the Western Andaman Sea coast. During my 3 day stay in Phuket, I decided to take a day trip to the Phi Phi islands with Phuket Sail Tours. Read more here about my specific tour and experience.
Visit Big Buddha – Situated on the peak of Mt. Nagakerd in Karon, gaze at the breathtaking horizon around you as you enjoy a 360-degree views of the Southern part of Phuket Island.
Visit Patong – If you’re up for a night of debauchery and people watching, Patong is a place to see due to its bright lights, ping pong shows, ladyboys, and anything else you can imagine.
Explore the Markets – Phuket is the main tourist hotspot and provides several different markets to see and visit. Walk around, find some local souvenirs, and eat some local street food.
WHERE TO EAT IN PHUKET
Cucina
Black Ginger
Krabi – 2 days
Krabi is a province on Southern Thailand’s West coast, known for it’s beaches and islands, as well as lush jungles. The town of Krabi is the hub of the province and the launching point for many excursions into the nearby jungles and islands
WHERE TO STAY
Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is located in Krabi, and overlooks the Andaman Sea with its picturesque limestone islands and spectacular sunsets. Its site is tucked in between a rocky beach coastline and sits in a low-laying area with mountains directly behind. Phulay Bay is a spectacular beach resort with an ultra-high-end style. The resort is very private, with only 54 one-bedroom pavilions and villas, including plenty of indoor and outdoor space. This is THE place to splurge!
SEE & DO IN KRABI
Visit Railey Beach – Railay beach is accessible only by boat due to the large cliffs on each side cutting it off from the mainland. Here you will find stunning white sand, breath taking views and fantastic limestone cliffs.
Go Kayaking – Kayaking in Ao Nang, Ao Luk and Ao Thalane are beautiful! Get up close and personal with that gorgeous limestone rock you see everywhere.
Visit Phra Nang Beach – Phra Nang Beach is at the southern tip of Railay Bay. You can get there by a 20-minute boat ride, or by foot if you are already at Railay Beach. Phra Nang Beach has fine, soft sand and clear water surrounded by sheer cliffs lined with lush jungles.
Visit Ao Nang – Ao Nang Beach is the hot party spot for tourists in Krabi. You’ll find bars clustered along the main beach road. Ton Sai Beach is where you go for the all-night beach parties during the full moon and the new moon.
Day Trip to Hong Island – Koh Hong, or better known as Hong Island, is an island off the coast of Krabi. Hong Island is part of the Than Bok Khorani national park and can only be reached by boat. Hong Island is a place for peace and quiet and relaxation. The island has many beautiful coves that are only accessible through narrow passages between towering limestone cliffs. This creates a very hidden, secluded feel. Once inside, you are able to swim and snorkel in the shallow areas as well as rent kayaks and take a lap around the island in the open waters. Click here for all the details of my trip to Hong Island.
WHERE TO EAT IN KRABI
Phulay Bay Restaurants
Koh Samui – 3 days
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island after Phuket! Travelers visit Thailand from all over the world, but the beauty of the Koh Samui is it attracts everyone from the budget backpacker to the wealthiest people on earth. This beautiful Thai island is a famous destination of Thailand that many dream to visit.
WHERE TO STAY
Koh Samui is a fairly small island that can be entirely driven around in one day. The most popular places to stay are on Chaweng beach, Lamai, Bophut and Maenam. We decided to stay at Villa Ihana, a villa located on a secluded hilltop in Choeng Mon. The Villa is situated in arguably the best location on Koh Samui surrounded by luxury villas and resorts such as the Six Senses, The Sala & Melati Beach Resort. The villa has prime location at the end of a private no through road containing a development of only 6 villas, next to the beach and sea. Our two-story villa even had its own private infinity pool, which was our favorite part of this stunning property.
SEE & DO IN KOH SAMUI
Go to the Beach – Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are tourist favorites! Chaweng Beach is the hub of Koh Samui, and where you’ll find nightlife, as well as plenty of restaurants and bars. For a more quiet spot, Lamai Beach is a beautiful long stretch perfect for kicking back and relaxing. It’s out of the way, making it perfect for a more peaceful vacation. Choeng Mon Beach is on the north-eastern tip of the island, and this area is one of mystical secluded bays. Regardless, what beach you decide to visit, sit back, relax and get your tan on!
Thai Massage – After a fun day of exploring the island, what is better than indulging yourself in a pampering massage? There are many different types of spas around Koh Samui offering a wide array of treatments and catering to all kinds of budgets. Unwind and relax, you’re on vacation after all! A Thai massage is a must – and they’re so cheap you should have one every day.
Watch the Sunset – Enjoy a sunset at a beautiful restaurant over dinner or watch it from your hotel or villa. Done properly, you must have a cocktail in hand. Champagne, please!
Day Trip to Angthong Marine Park – If you are visiting the island, do make a note to also visit Anthong Marine National Park. One of Samui’s most famous surrounding attractions. Angthong is made up of 42 islands grouped together in the gulf of Thailand, the scenery is breathtaking and the nature is unforgettable as you can cruise, hike or kayak. Many affordable tours are available from the Island of Koh Samui and include cruises, speed boats, group tours or private tours.
Dine a Tree Top – Yes, you can eat amongst the trees at Anantara! A treetop restaurant overlooking the incredible Samui coast. Not only is the food outstanding, but it is one of the most unique places you’ll ever eat at. There are eight individual open-air ‘tree-houses’ which split off from the main walkway at separate intervals, ensuring completely private dining. If you splurge on one meal, make sure it’s in a tree house!
Water Activities – With clear blue, warm waters, Koh Samui is an extremely popular destination for water activities. We decided to go jet skiing for an hour one afternoon and it was so exhilarating! There are an abundance of other waters sports available on Koh Samui, including snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving and sailing. Whatever your preference is, make sure to do at least one of these activities during your visit to Koh Samui.
Visit Fisherman’s Village – The Fisherman’s Village in Bophut is one of the few traditional places left on Koh Samui. Bophut Plaza in the centre of the fishing village is a great spot to hit up for souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants with local and international cuisine for you to have a bite and a cocktail.
Take a Cooking Class – A great way to experience Thai cuisine is by having a private chef teach you how to cook traditional Thai dishes. This experience allows you to learn about the spices and ingredients absolutely necessary to successfully prepare flavourful Thai dishes. We had Chef Sergio from IVL Property prepare a delicious lunch for us in our villa. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can also arrange a cooking class with your hotel.
WHERE TO EAT IN KOH SAMUI
Dining on the Rocks
The Cliffs
Sala Samui
Anantara
Bangkok – 3 days
This busy metropolitan city is one of the most chaotic, energetic, and vibrant cities in Southeast Asia. In Bangkok, there are temples, congested road, roof top bars, shopping, and pretty much everything that you can imagine under the sun.
WHERE TO STAY
Courtyard Marriott Bangkok is an affordable and great hotel to stay while visiting Bangkok. The hotel is centrally located in the heart of Bangkok between Siam and Silom, two of the best areas in Bangkok to shop and eat.
SEE & DO IN BANGKOK
Spend a day at the temples – There are over 40,000 Buddhist temples throughout Thailand, so you definitely won’t have a hard time finding one to explore. Bangkok holds some of the most beautiful temples in all of Thailand, so I suggest you try to visit at least one. These temples could take up an entire day if you try to see a few.
Visit the Chatuchak Market – The Chatuchak Weekend Market, is a place where you can buy ANYTHING and EVERYTHING!.This market is only on Saturdays and Sundays, but so worth it! It’s a great market full of wonderful food stalls and a great spot for shopping.
Floating Market of Dumnoen Saduak – This floating market is honestly super touristy now, but still a cool outing to do if you have time. A bus will take you there in the morning and you’ll get to float down the river in a little boat to the different side shops. We paid a little extra to go on the boat tour to see the water canals outside of the market and that was one of my fave parts. You can also find some authentic food stalls still and ladies selling mango sticky rice on the sides of the water banks.
Go Shopping – Bangkok is one of the best cities to shop in the world. Whatever you want is readily available, whether it’s a top designer handbag, a quirky market souvenir, or a contemporary piece from a local Thai designer!
Go to a Muay Thai Fight – Muay Thai is an ancient Thai martial art, originally developed for use in military combat. Rajadamnern Stadium is a great place to witness the action of a traditional Muay Thai fight.
Visit a Rooftop Bar – Bangkok’s nightlife is as eclectic as the city itself, catering for all ages, tastes, and purses. Have a drink at a rooftop bar while overlooking the city lights.
WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK
Nahm at COMO Metropolitan
Banyon Tree
Audrey Cafe and Bistro
Theo Mio
Well, that’s a wrap! My 2 week Thailand itinerary! For anyone wanting to see the “highlights” of Thailand and a short window of opportunity, I would recommend using this itinerary as inspiration.
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This is so beautiful! so helpful! i am dying to trip to thailand !
Thank you! Hopefully this helps you plan your trip!
Wow! This is an incredibly detailed list! Thailand looks like a wonderful place to go. I’d love to visit some of the temples you described as well as east some of that delicious food!
Thank you Olivia! The temples throughout Thailand are so beautiful. I hope you visit one day soon!
Oh, I dream of going to Thailand! Thank you for such a beautiful, comprehensive itinerary. I will definitely be saving it for future reference.
Thank you so much Michelle!
This was certainly a good round-up post of Thailand for anyone who has never visited the Land of Smiles before. I really need to start making an effort of getting to Chiang Mai. I’ve been coming to Thailand some 25 years and still haven’t made it. I think that for the last 10 years, every time I say that on my NEXT visit I will go up North. Oh well…
Thank you so much Anna! Haha, yeah sometimes it’s hard to make it up north if you just want to live the island life. I hope you make it on your NEXT trip!
wow! that’s a great itinerary. Really want to visit Thailand now with such beautiful beaches and islands.
Thank you so much Neha!! I definitely recommend visiting the islands! Thailand beaches are different and unique when compared to most around the world.