10 Days Thailand Itinerary: Best Routes + All You Need to Know

Thailand, as you probably already know, is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a paradise for beach lovers, holidaymakers, backpackers, and anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a different culture and enjoy some of the most stunning beaches and temples on our planet.

Personally, I absolutely adore Thailand, its laid-back vibe, the beautiful culture, and the fascinating history, and don't even get me started on the incredible food you can find here in Thailand!

If you have 10 days to explore this amazing country, you'll have plenty of time to check off all the highlights, go island hopping or simply relax on some of Thailand's breathtaking beaches.

I've been visiting Thailand regularly since my first trip in 2012. I just returned from another visit and I thought it was the right time to share my 10-day Thailand itinerary with you. Of course, everyone has different preferences, so I've put together this guide to help you create the perfect itinerary that suits you just right, no matter if you just want to see the highlights, experience culture and night markets or party it up on your 10 days in Thailand.

1. Ultimate 10-day Thailand itinerary with all the main highlights: Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Koh Samui

If this is your first time in Thailand, I'm sure you'll want to experience all the highlights and truly explore the country. The best part is that getting around Thailand is super easy!

There are plenty of flights, overnight buses, trains, and ferries connecting the most popular destinations, allowing you to easily explore Thailand's incredible highlights in no time. Or jump on a cheap flight with Thai Lion Air to across the country even faster.

Day 1-3: Bangkok

When you visit Thailand, you'll likely fly into Bangkok, which is perfect because Bangkok is not only a great hub to get to other places but it's one of the most exciting places in Thailand. There's so much to do and explore here that you could easily spend weeks and still not see it all. But don't worry, three days in Bangkok will be enough for this highlights itinerary.

I highly recommend staying either along Sukhumvit or Riverside if you're looking for a luxury hotel, or if you're on a budget, the Old Town and around the famous Khao San Road is the perfect pick. It's a hub for backpackers, offering cheap accommodation, mouthwatering street food, and wild nightlife.

Also, read my full Bangkok accommodation guide to find all the best areas and hotels.

Now, let's talk about the must-see attractions in Bangkok!

Of course, you can't miss Thailand's most popular landmarks like the famous Grand Palace, the dazzling Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the majestic Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and the serene Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha).

Furthermore, I recommend you check out Chinatown, take a half or full-day trip to one of the floating markets, and take a boat ride through Bangkok's canals to see the real Bangkok. For some delicious street food and souvenir shopping, I also love paying a visit to Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Day 4-7: Chiang Mai

After three exciting days in Bangkok, let's head to the charming city of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.

You have a couple of options to get there – a short flight or an overnight train or bus from Bangkok will do the trick. Chiang Mai is famous for its rich culture, mouthwatering food and markets, and incredible nature and visiting an elephant sanctuary.

In my opinion, Chiang Mai is one of the best areas in Thailand as it gives you a glimpse of an authentic Thailand. There are a few must-dos in Chiang Mai, like visiting the famous temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep on top of the hill, which is best at sunset.

And you can't miss to go temple hopping in the Old Town. My favorite temples here are Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh but there are so many more. The Old City within the old city walls is also full of awesome cafes and places to eat. My favorite places in Chiang Mai Old Town are Goodsouls Kitchen, Bird's Nest Cafe and My Secret Cafe in Town.

Some of my other favorite activities are taking a Thai cooking class and checking out Chiang Mai's night market where you can sample some yummy street food and buy the best souvenirs in all of Thailand. I shopped up a storm at the Sunday Walking Street (Tha Phae Walking Street) when I was there last and had like 5x dinners as everything looked so amazing and I had to simply buy it all.

The highlight for most people in Chiang Mai is taking a day trip into the surrounding mountains and visiting an elephant sanctuary. My personal recommendation for an ethical and amazingly run sanctuary is Elephant Nature Park.

This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates elephants from inhumane tourist attractions, allowing you to interact with these gentle giants ethically.

If you have some more time, I also recommend visiting some of the nearby towns such as Pai or Chiang Rai with its famous white temple.

Day 8-10: Koh Samui

No trip to Thailand would be complete without a visit to one of its stunning islands. For this itinerary, I suggest heading to Koh Samui – one of the most popular and beautiful islands in the country. You can take a flight from Chiang Mai or Bangkok straight to Koh Samui, which takes about an hour. It's the only island with an International Airport.

Koh Samui has everything you could ask for in a tropical paradise – beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Chill out on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or give snorkeling and scuba diving a shot. And oh, you gotta check out Fisherman's Village – their night market by the water is pretty awesome!

2. Best 10-day Thailand itinerary for beach lovers: Phuket – Krabi – Koh Samui

If you're a true beach lover like me, then the below itinerary will be absolutely perfect for you.

As you already know, Thailand is home to numerous tropical islands with incredible, paradise-like beaches. It can be quite a challenge to decide where to go but don't worry, I've got you covered.

I've put together this itinerary with my favorite islands and beaches for the ultimate relaxing Thailand beach vacation.

Day 1-3: Phuket

The south of Thailand is where you'll find most of these incredible islands and beaches. Luckily, Phuket in southern Thailand has an international airport, making it easy to get there.

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand and has some of the most famous beaches in the country, such as Patong Beach and Karon Beach, that you might have seen on Instagram or in movies.

Aside from lounging on these beautiful beaches, there's also plenty to do here. You can explore Phuket Old Town, which not many tourists visit making it more off the beaten path with its charming cafes and colorful streets.

When staying along one of the many Phuket beaches, definitely visit the famous Big Buddha with its stunning views over the island, you can also take a day or overnight trip to Khao Sok National Park, or go on a boat tour to see some of the smaller islands around Phuket, such as James Bond Island or Maya Bay.

Day 4-6: Krabi

All islands and regions in the Andaman Sea are so well-connected by ferries that it's a breeze catching one to your next destination. From Phuket, you can take a ferry or bus to Krabi – another popular beach destination in south Thailand. Here, you'll find some of the most stunning beaches and landscapes in the country.

The most famous beach in Krabi is, without a doubt, Railay Beach, for a good reason. The beach on Krabi's west coast is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, making it an incredible beach to look at.

Many people try rock climbing here or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands of Koh Hong and Phi Phi Island. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even hike up to the Tiger Cave Temple for stunning views.

For Krabi, I always recommend staying in the beachside town of Ao Nang instead of Krabi Town as it's just a lot nicer Ao Nang has stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to all the iconic attractions.

Day 7-10: Koh Samui

Last but not least on the itinerary, we have the beautiful island of Koh Samui. From Krabi, you can easily take a shuttle bus, plus a ferry to get here. Otherwise, the trip is back to Phuket Airport and fly straight to the island.

Koh Samui is known for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches such as Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach with its beautiful Fisherman's Village and old-charm shophouses.

Apart from lounging on these gorgeous beaches and sipping on cocktails, you can also take a day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, visit the impressive Big Buddha Temple, or experience the local culture and night market at Fisherman's Village.

And of course, don't forget to try out some of the delicious seafood that Koh Samui is famous for. There are plenty of little local seafood shacks where you can try fresh fish, but my personal favorite is The Oyster Bar X, where they serve some of the best oysters on the island.

3. Best 10-day Thailand itinerary for culture & history buffs: Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Kanchanaburi -Chiang Mai

When it comes to diving into history and culture, Thailand offers endless opportunities for exploration.

You've probably noticed that for paradise-like islands and beaches, the south of Thailand is the go-to destination, while for exploring culture and history, Northern Thailand is the place to be.

And that's exactly where we'll be going for this itinerary for culture and history – exploring the charming towns and cities of Northern Thailand.

Day 1-3: Bangkok

When exploring Northern Thailand, you will usually start your journey in Bangkok. It's not just because you'll most likely arrive at the international airport here but also because Bangkok is filled with plenty of history and culture.

As the capital city of Thailand, it offers an incredible and super interesting mix of old and new. You'll find stunning temples and palaces standing tall alongside modern skyscrapers and lively streets.

To start your cultural adventure, make sure to visit the iconic Grand Palace – one of the most famous landmarks in Thailand. Here, you can marvel at the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which houses the small and sacred statue of the Emerald Buddha.

There are plenty of other temples and landmarks to explore in Bangkok, such as Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and I also love visiting Jim Thompson House – a museum showcasing traditional Thai architecture.

To delve into Thailand's fascinating history, I recommend joining a guided tour around Bangkok, some will be on foot, some on a tuk-tuk or bicycle (which I personally prefer). The local guides will be more than happy to provide you with some background information about the temples and palaces.

Additionally, I highly recommend paying a visit to the Bangkok National Museum to gain a deeper insight into the rich history and culture of the country.

Day 4: Ayutthaya

The next trip can easily be done as a day trip from Bangkok, but if you prefer, you can also spend the night in Ayutthaya. There are plenty of trains leaving from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, but you can also easily catch a taxi or minibus. Either way, it's pretty easy to get here.

This ancient capital of Thailand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for anyone interested in history. The city is home to numerous temples and ruins that date back centuries.

Some of the must-see sites include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which was once the largest temple in Ayutthaya, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram – one of the most impressive temples in Ayutthaya.

My personal highlight, for sure, was at Wat Mahathat where a Buddha's head is entangled by tree roots, and it's magical!

On top of that, Ayutthaya is not super popular with tourists, so it's also a nice escape from busy Bangkok and I think it's worth staying at least a night for two. You'll love it!

Day 5-6: Kanchanaburi

From Ayutthaya, you have a few options to get to Kanchanaburi. You can grab a taxi or a minivan directly, or if you prefer, you can catch a bus from Bangkok and make it a day trip. It's totally up to you!

Kanchanaburi is probably one of my personal favorites. I wouldn't exactly call it a hidden gem because it's well-known by many tourists, but it doesn't get super crowded like Chiang Mai or Bangkok.

In Kanchanaburi, you can explore a fascinating mix of Thailand's dark history and some of the most incredible nature the country has to offer. The Bridge over the River Kwai is the most famous attraction, built during World War II by prisoners of war.

You'll also find other interesting historical sites like the Thailand-Burma Railway Center and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

If you're looking for accommodation in Kanchanaburi, I recommend you find a hotel close to the historic bridge over the River Kwai.

And I can't forget to mention Erawan National Park, where you can immerse yourself in Thailand's beautiful nature with stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. It's a nature lover's paradise!

Day 7-10: Chiang Mai

Next up is the amazing cultural hub of Northern Thailand – Chiang Mai. After you visit Kanchanaburi, you can easily head back to Bangkok and catch a flight or night bus straight to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai is famous for its ancient temples, bustling night markets, and relaxed atmosphere. You definitely shouldn't miss out on some must-see sites like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – a breathtaking temple perched on top of a mountain.

I also love Wat Chedi Luang, one of the oldest temples in the city, and if you happen, make sure you have some time to spend at Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street – where you can immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of people, live music and mouthwatering Thai street food. If you're here during the week, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar runs every night of the week, so you can be sure to catch some of the awesome night market vibes the city is so famous for.

If you want to delve deeper into Thai culture, I highly recommend joining a cooking class. Most classes will take you to a market beforehand to buy all the fresh ingredients you need. You'll gain a fascinating insight into Thai culture while learning how to cook a delicious dish step by step.

For nature lovers, I suggest you either join an organized trip into the surrounding nature or the beautiful Doi Inthanon National Park or you can also rent a scooter and drive yourself.

4. Best 10-day Thailand itinerary for partying and nightlife: Bangkok – Koh Phangan – Koh Phi Phi

When people think of Thailand, most usually think of stunning beaches and temples first. But right behind that, they can't forget to mention the crazy nightlife.

Khao San Road in Bangkok, Full Moon Parties, and the infamous Ping Pong Shows are all part of Thailand's crazy nightlife scene.

If you're looking for a 10-day itinerary filled with parties and beach club vibes, this is the one for you.

Day 1-3: Bangkok

As mentioned earlier, Bangkok is an absolute must on any Thai itinerary. But on this specific one, we're gonna dive into the city's best party spots. So instead of checking out temples and museums, we'll be hitting up some of Bangkok's most famous nightlife hotspots.

First on the list is Khao San Road – known as the backpacker hub of Southeast Asia. Here, you'll find a bunch of cool bars and clubs, street vendors selling cocktails to happy hour prices all day, and plenty of awesome people to hang out with. It's the perfect spot to kick off your nightlife adventure in Thailand.

After Khao San Road, you can head over to Royal City Avenue (RCA) – a super popular spot among both locals and tourists. You'll discover a bunch of clubs, each with its own unique vibe and music genre.

And of course, no visit to Bangkok's nightlife scene would be complete without checking out one of its famous rooftop bars. Treat yourself to a drink while enjoying breathtaking views of the city at Sky Bar or Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar.

Day 4-6: Koh Phangan

From Bangkok, you can catch a direct flight to Koh Samui and then take a ferry over to the island of Koh Phangan – home to the infamous Full Moon Parties. These all-night raves take place once a month on Haad Rin Beach and attract thousands of party-goers from all over the world.

Aside from the Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan also offers plenty of other parties throughout the month, including Half-Moon Parties and Jungle Experience. But if you need a break from the non-stop partying, you can relax at one of the island's beautiful beaches or go on a snorkeling or scuba diving trip.

Koh Phangan is an amazing island, so even if you're not up for partying every night, it's worth a visit to discover some of Thailand's most breathtaking beaches. It's also got some of Thailand's best yoga retreats, if you're a yogi you should consider spending some time here.

Day 7-10: Koh Phi Phi

After a few days of partying, it's time to hit up another beach paradise – Koh Phi Phi. This island is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place to recover from the Full Moon Party hangover.

But don't worry, there's still plenty of nightlife to be enjoyed on Koh Phi Phi.

Head to Slinky Beach Bar for some fire shows and beach parties or check out Rolling Stoned Bar for a more chilled-out vibe and live music.

And of course, no visit to Koh Phi Phi is complete without taking a boat trip to Maya Bay – the famous filming location of “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

After 10 days of partying, beach hopping, and exploring Thailand's wild nightlife scene, you'll certainly have some unforgettable memories. Now you can easily catch a ferry to Phuket and fly out from its international airport.

5. Best 10-day Thailand itinerary for families & couples: Bangkok – Koh Samui – Koh Tao

My last itinerary is perfect for couples, families, and anyone who wants to experience a slower tropical vacation.

Not only will you get to immerse yourself in the country's culture and Thai food, but you'll also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beach or pool at your resort.

Day 1-3: Bangkok

Your journey will start in Bangkok because, as much as you'd love to chill by the pool or beach on one of Thailand's stunning Gulf Islands, the first three days are all about diving into Thai culture.

Hop on a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River to visit Bangkok's most famous temples Wat Arun and Wat Pho as well as the symbol of Thailand's royal heritage, the Grand Palace.

If you're up for it, explore the busy markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Khao San Road in Bangkok is another must-visit. It might not be the best spot for kids later in the evening, but if you swing by in the morning or early afternoon, you'll get a taste of the buzz without all the craziness and parties. You'll find some cool bars and amazing street food vendors there, so make sure to grab your first authentic Pad Thai.

If you're traveling as a couple and up for a romantic or relaxing drink at sunset, I highly recommend heading to one of the rooftop bars. Sky Bar, made famous by the movie Hangover, is one of the coolest spots, but fair warning, it can get busy and a bit pricey. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, give the Octave Rooftop Bar or RedSquare Rooftop Bar a try.

Day 4-6: Koh Samui

After a few busy days in Bangkok, it's finally time to unwind and relax on one of Thailand's stunning islands! Fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui and get ready to spend the next three days lounging by the beach or pool, treating yourself to delicious food, and indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments or a Thai massage.

Koh Samui is known as a luxurious island, so you'll find an abundance of high-end resorts and restaurants to choose from. But don't worry, there are also plenty of more budget-friendly accommodation options available if that's what you prefer.

And if you're traveling with kids, no worries. Koh Samui has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.

Pay a visit to the Paradise Park Farm for a delightful interactive experience with animals, or join a fun boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park for some snorkeling and kayaking.

Day 7-10: Koh Tao

Your last stop on this amazing 10 day Thailand itinerary is the beautiful small island of Koh Tao, which is a true paradise for snorkelers and divers.

Here, you'll have the best time exploring the local marine life, as well as discovering some of the best beaches in the country. The best thing is that Koh Tao is much less touristy than Koh Samui, which I usually prefer, especially when I just want to relax on those stunning beaches.

Koh Tao also offers some incredible hiking opportunities. If you're up for a little adventure, make sure to hike to one of the island's viewpoints for jaw-dropping views of the surrounding islands. John-Suwan Viewpoint and Mango Viewpoint are my two favorite spots that I highly recommend to you as well.

Alternatively, if you're up for a party and some island hopping, you can always catch a short ferry ride to Koh Phangan, one of the popular Gulf Islands. Koh Phangan is famous for its stunning beaches and the legendary Full Moon Party. So much fun awaits!

Thailand Pre-Travel Tips

When you're traveling to Thailand, get ready to step into a whole new world in some ways.

Thailand, just like other countries in Southeast Asia has its unique quirks, from visa requirements to local culture and currencies. To avoid any unwanted surprises, it's a good idea to do a bit of research and preparation before you go

Here are some tips to help you plan your trip and make the most of your 10 days in Thailand.

✅ Check your passport & Thailand visa requirements

Before you start planning your trip and making any bookings, it's important to check if you'll be able to enter the country. For many people, obtaining a visa before arriving in Thailand isn't necessary.

However, this depends on your country of citizenship and the duration of your stay. So, it's worth checking the Thailand Immigration website to see if you have any visa requirements (usually, the US, Australia, and most European countries don't need a visa to enter Thailand and can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport). Lastly, don't forget to ensure that your passport is valid for at least another six months from your day of arrival to avoid any potential issues.

☀️ Pack according to the weather in Thailand

When packing for Thailand, keep in mind that it's a tropical country with warm, humid weather all year round. So, go for light and breathable clothes to stay comfortable.

If you're planning to visit temples or religious sites, it's good to have some appropriate attire like long pants and clothing to cover your shoulders. But don't worry too much, because in most places you can buy sarongs, which are thin scarves perfect for covering up and they also make great souvenirs. I personally love them!

🏘️ Plan your Thailand travel budget

Thailand is famous for being an affordable destination and the Thai Baht tends to go a long way. But your expenses can easily vary depending on your travel style. If you're planning to stick to a budget, it's a good idea to do some research on prices for accommodation, transportation, and food in advance. This way, you can plan accordingly and avoid any surprises.

While visiting Thailand can be affordable when you stay in hostels and mainly stick with street food, it can also be expensive if you choose to stay in luxury resorts and dine in fancy restaurants.

To give you a better idea of what your daily Thailand budget might look like, here's a rough estimate:

• Budget Travelers: US$30-50 per day, including accommodation, food, transportation, and some activities.

• Mid-range Travelers: US$60-80 per day, including a mid-range or boutique hotel, meals at local restaurants, and most activities.

• Luxury Travelers: US$100+ per day, for high-end luxury accommodation, fine dining experiences, and luxury activities.

❓Be aware of cultural differences

The biggest cultural differences you'll encounter in Thailand will likely be related to the way you're expected to act, dress, and communicate. For example, Thais are generally very polite and they have an incredibly warm service culture with smiling being a huge part of their culture. So, don't be surprised if people smile at you as you explore the country!

It's also important to know that in Thailand, showing respect for Buddha and the Royal Family is highly valued. So, make sure to always dress appropriately when visiting temples and royal sites and avoid making any disrespectful gestures or comments.

📍Get travel insurance for Thailand

While we all hope for a smooth and safe trip, it's always better to be prepared for any unexpected situations. That's why I think getting travel insurance is important when traveling to Thailand. It will give you peace of mind knowing that you'll be covered in case of any medical emergencies, lost luggage, or delayed flights.

I have gotten sick several times traveling Thailand, with both simple doctor and day hospital visits and everything was covered by the insurance every time, so lucky!

📆 Check for the rainy & burning season

Thailand has three main seasons: hot (summer), cool (winter), and rainy (monsoon). The best time to visit the country would be during the dry/cool season from November to April when the weather is mostly sunny and pleasant. However, if you're planning to visit during the rainy season (May-October), make sure to pack accordingly as there may be occasional heavy rain showers. But don't worry, these are usually short downpours in the afternoon and even during the rainy season, you'll still have plenty of sunny and warm days to enjoy your trip. 

Finally, the burning season in Thailand typically refers to the period between February and April when farmers engage in agricultural burning in Thailand to clear fields for the next crop cycle. This practice can lead to poor air quality, increased pollution, and health concerns, particularly in the northern regions of the country. It's not the best time to visit cities such as Chiang Mai.

10-day Thailand itinerary – Final Words

A 10-day Thailand itinerary is the perfect time for you to get to know the country and have a relaxing vacation. You can visit stunning beaches, explore Thai culture with its golden temples, and try some amazing food. 

Thailand is without a doubt one of my favorite destinations because any type of traveler can find something here, no matter if you're traveling solo, with your other half or whole family. And on top of that, you don't have to spend a fortune and can travel well on a tighter budget. 

I hope this itinerary will help you plan your dream trip to Thailand. Just remember, no matter which itinerary style you choose, be open to new adventures and always enjoy every moment.