The Ultimate 3 Week Thailand Itinerary (For 2024)

For many tourists and travelers, Thailand is the gateway to Southeast Asia. It's known for its incredibly beautiful beaches, island hopping, stunning temples, delicious food, and even its sometimes a little crazy (but fun!) capital, Bangkok. 

I've been visiting Thailand for many years, and my love for this country keeps bringing me back. There's definitely something special about Thailand that will easily capture your heart.

There are so many different islands in Southern Thailand and numerous interesting places in Northern Thailand that three weeks might not seem like enough time. But don't worry, I've got you covered!

I've put together a three-week Thailand itinerary with all my favorite spots, so you'll be sure to hit all the highlights and have an incredible time. And honestly, I think you'll be back for more after this trip!

Thailand 3 week itinerary

In this 3-week Thailand itinerary, I've gathered my absolute favorite places, from Thailand's vibrant capital, Bangkok, to the breathtaking islands in southern Thailand such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Krabi, and Koh Lanta.

And of course, there are also the culturally rich northern regions of Thailand, where you'll be exploring places like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. As far as cities go in Thailand, Chiang Mai is my favorite by far, it's also the city where my wanderlust was sparked when I started traveling full-time in 204.

Day 1-3: Bangkok

Bangkok is definitely a city you shouldn't overlook, especially if you've never been to Southeast Asia before. Bangkok is exactly what you'd imagine from movies like Hangover 2. This city never sleeps, with neon signs everywhere, restaurants and shops open 24/7, and yes, you can find all the crazy parties on the infamous Khao San Road.

On your first day of your Thailand itinerary, even if you arrive a bit later in the day, there's still plenty to do – because, this city doesn't sleep! But before diving into some evening sightseeing, I suggest indulging in Bangkok's amazing food and nightlife scene for a little while.

For dinner, let me recommend one of my favorite restaurants for traditional Thai food: Rongros. It's right by the Chao Phraya River, has a super cool rooftop, and serves amazing traditional Thai cuisine. Not only is it affordable, but it's also recommended by Michelin.

If you're looking for a cheaper and easier option, just head over to Khao San Road. You'll be able to grab a delicious Pad Thai from a street food vendor for just 50 Baht (less than US$1.50).

When it comes to drinks, the Sky Bar in Bangkok is definitely one of the most iconic spots. However, it can be a bit expensive, with cocktails costing around 1000 Baht (approximately USD30).

On your second day, you should definitely check out some of Bangkok's amazing sights like The Royal Grand Palace, the majestic temple of Wat Arun, the legendary Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Lumpini Park, and Thailand's National Museum, just to name a few. You can easily explore these sights by walking or hopping on a tuk-tuk from landmark to landmark. Or book yourself one of the awesome guided tours:

• Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Private Tour

• Bangkok: Backstreets and Hidden Gems Bike Tours

• Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market

If you're wondering about the best places to stay in Bangkok for your few days here, I've got you covered with my guide featuring my favorite areas and hotels in Bangkok.

Now, on your last day in Bangkok, you'll be taking a day trip to Ayutthaya, which is one of the most interesting and diverse areas in the region. Ayutthaya is an absolute paradise for history buffs, with its countless impressive temples.

If you've had the pleasure of visiting places like Angkor Wat in Cambodia and enjoyed it, then you'll definitely love Ayutthaya too.

For more information on what to do and where to stay in Ayutthaya, take a look at my guide. 

Day 4-7: Koh Samui or Koh Pangan

On day 4 of your Thailand itinerary, you'll finally get to experience what most of you have been looking forward to – the beautiful islands in south Thailand! It's going to be an amazing island-hopping adventure down south, with countless destinations to choose from.

For your next stop, you can decide if you want to fly from Bangkok straight into Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. These two, along with Koh Lanta, are the Gulf Islands.

Choosing between Koh Samui and Koh Pangan is usually quite easy because both islands offer unique but also very different experiences.

Koh Samui: For luxury & family vacations

Koh Samui is the largest and most developed island in the Gulf Islands, perfect for a more luxurious experience. You'll find everything from beautiful beach resorts to hip restaurants and bars, as well as some great yoga retreats. 

The beaches here are some of the most gorgeous ones I've seen in Thailand – white sand and crystal clear waters. The best part is that if you get away from the main areas like Chaweng and Lamai, you can find many beaches that are quite empty.

I'd say Koh Samui is an amazing destination for a truly relaxing and secluded holiday experience. It's perfect whether you're traveling solo, with your family, or even with your kids. 

And if you're into beach-side yoga retreats, Koh Samui is definitely a top choice too!

Koh Phangan: For Full Moon party, backpackers & exploring off the beaten path

If you're looking to party and don't mind a bit of chaos, then your destination should definitely be Koh Phangan. Apart from the famous Full Moon Party which happens once a month, Koh Phangan also has another quiet side to it with some amazing beaches, relaxing sunset bars, and night markets.

Koh Phangan is also a great place for backpackers since there are plenty of cheap accommodation options and restaurants that don't break the bank. 

So if partying and exploring on a budget sound like your cup of tea, head over to Koh Phangan! 

To discover more about the Gulf Islands and find the one that suits you best, I've spent quite a lot of time exploring each of them. So, I put together a little guide to help you choose the right one for you!

Day 8-10: Koh Tao: For snorkeling and scuba diving

Whether you choose to visit Koh Samui or Koh Pangan, Koh Tao, the third Gulf Island, is a must on your 3 week Thailand itinerary. It's actually the smallest of the three islands and doesn't even have an airport, so you'll have to take a high-speed catamaran or ferry from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.

The best part about Koh Tao being so tiny and without an airport is that it's a perfect spot to escape the crowds. The real highlight of Koh Tao is its underwater world. It's an absolute haven for snorkeling and scuba diving, and you'll get to witness some of the most beautiful colorful fish and marine animals in Southeast Asia.

And if you're a scuba diving enthusiast, you absolutely can't miss the world-famous Chumphon Pinnacles and Sail Rock, which are known as one of the best dive spots in Thailand.

Lastly, let me share some of my favorite restaurant recommendations for all you foodies. One place I can't get enough of is Cafe Culture. It's right on the beach and perfect for a delicious breakfast or lunch. Trust me, their coffee is amazing, and they make a mean full English breakfast.

Another spot I love is Zest. They're fantastic for lunch, serving up tasty sandwiches and refreshing juices. Everything there is fairly affordable, which is always a bonus.

However, my absolute favorite restaurant and go-to dinner spot on the island is Whitening on Sairee Beach. It's a seafood joint with a touch of Italian influence, and its food is simply out of this world. You absolutely must try their BBQ seafood platter with octopus and prawns – it's an absolute must-try!

Day 11-13: Krabi

On day 11, you'll make your way from the Gulf Islands to the beautiful province of Krabi. Getting there is super easy – you can either hop on a plane straight from Koh Samui to Krabi or go for the more affordable option of taking a ferry to the mainland and then a bus to Krabi. I recommend booking through 12Go, this way you'll have the entire trip connected and don't have to book two separate things.

Once you arrive at Krabi Airport or the bus stop, it's a breeze to hop on a shuttle to your hotel. I recommend you base yourself in Ao Nang Beach. From here, you can easily find boats for a day trip, that will take you to some of the most breathtaking places in Thailand.

Railay Beach, Tonsai Beach, Tub Kaek Beach are definitely the most popular ones and can easily be accessed by boat. However, my personal favorite is Railay Beach – it's an absolute paradise with its stunning landscape, white sand beaches, and limestone rock formations.

Have you seen that famous picture with the limestone in the water and the wooden longtail boats on the beach? Yep, that's Railay Beach!

Krabi is also the ideal spot to explore some other islands in the south of Thailand. Phi Phi Islands, the stunning Maya Bay, and James Bond Island are among the best spots to book a boat tour.

For more information on what to do and where to stay in Krabi, make sure to check out my guide. It's packed with helpful tips and recommendations!

Day 13-15: Koh Lanta

On day 13 of your 3 week Thailand itinerary, you'll be hopping on a bus that will take you from either Krabi Town to your next destination, the beautiful islands of Koh Lanta.

Koh Lanta is an incredible island filled with mangroves and limestone rainforests. Its coral-fringed coast and Mu Ko Lanta National Park, which includes a few smaller islands, are simply breathtaking. Here you can also explore the Khao Mai Kaew cave network and Khlong Chak Waterfalls.

Koh Lanta is also a fantastic spot for some island hopping. Nearby, you'll find the tiny islands of Koh Rok and Koh Haa, both home to white sand beaches, palm trees, and incredible opportunities for snorkeling and sunbathing. 

After a long day of island hopping, you'll probably be quite hungry, and I absolutely don't want to miss the chance to give a little shoutout to my favorite restaurant on the island. Yawee Restaurant is hands down the best place to eat on the island!

They offer a wide variety of traditional Thai options, including delicious vegan curries and a mouthwatering vegan Pad Thai. Plus, it's super affordable too. You can enjoy a satisfying main course here for just somewhere between 100 and 150 Baht (around US$2.50-5.00).

To find out more about where to stay in Koh Lanta, make sure to check out my guide! Whether you're on a honeymoon, family vacation, or yoga retreat, Koh Lanta has something for you.

Alternative: Phuket

Koh Lanta is a great choice for families and anyone who likes things a bit quieter. It's also a wonderful island to explore yourself on a scooter. If you prefer more infrastructure, kids' parks, and bigger resorts, Phuket, Thailand's crown jewel, might be a better choice.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is a haven for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its pristine beaches like Patong and Kata, it caters to sun worshippers, while those craving adventure can explore the lush jungles, embark on exhilarating snorkeling or scuba diving excursions, and even try their hand at surfing.

For culture enthusiasts, the old town of Phuket showcases Sino-Portuguese architecture and a rich history waiting to be uncovered. Families, honeymooners, and solo travelers will all find something to love on this island, whether it's the bustling nightlife of Patong Beach or the tranquility of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts.

Phuket, with its diverse range of experiences, truly has something for everyone.

Day 16-19: Chiang Mai

On day 16, you'll be leaving the beautiful southern islands of Thailand and heading towards the culturally rich mountains of northern Thailand. We're starting off with my absolute favorite city in the north – Chiang Mai!

From Koh Lanta, you can catch a bus back to Krabi, and from there, you can easily fly directly all the way from southern Thailand to Chiang Mai. 

When you arrive in Chiang Mai, I bet you'll want to relax a little after a long day of traveling. And you know what's the best way to do that? Hit up a spa, such as Fah Lanna or Giving Tree Massage – make sure you book ahead as they are popular places and book out.

Alternatively, chill in some of the best cafes in town. My personal favorites are Fern Forest Cafe and My Secret Cafe In Town.

When it comes to dinner, I recommend Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine in Chiang Mai Old Town, for amazing authentic Thai food. Its Good Kitchen is another inexpensive alternative for authentic but clean Thai food, I liked eating here a lot even though it was quite simple. I also like Ging Grai or Health Junk in the trendy Nimman neighborhood.

In your upcoming days, you'll definitely have a great time exploring the magnificent temples of Chiang Mai. One of them is Wat Chedi Luang, a 14th-century temple that stands tall at over 70 meters.

Another beautiful temple in the city center is Wat Phra Singh, which was built back in 1345. I recommend you visit in the early morning as there won't be any crowds and you could have the temple all to yourself before 8 am.

You'll also have to check out the vibrant night markets in Chiang Mai, which happen to be some of my personal favorites in the country – and I did plan my last visit around their schedule, so this must mean something! Sunday Walking Street Market, also called Tha Phae Walking Street, is in my eyes the best one and offers a wide variety of delicious food options and, of course, plenty of shopping opportunities.

Now, the highlight of your visit to Chiang Mai is undoubtedly the chance to visit one of the Elephant sanctuaries in the region. And let me tell you, my absolute top recommendation is to visit Elephant Nature Park.

The Elephant Nature Park is not just an ordinary sanctuary; it's an incredible elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand. It was founded by the renowned elephant rights advocate, Saengduean Chailert. It's an unforgettable experience where you'll get to interact with and learn about these majestic creatures while lending a helping hand in their daily routine.

Check out their website here for more information.

If that's not exciting enough, then you should totally check out a Muay Thai boxing match at the Chiang Mai Stadium! The Loi Kroh Muay Thai Stadium is located just outside the old town, and they have fights every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday starting around 9 p.m. They showcase 6-7 thrilling fights each night, and ticket prices range from 600 to 1000 Baht (US$16-30).

Chiang Mai has a lot going for it. If you're visiting for a few days only, staying in Chiang Mai Old Town is what I recommend. Otherwise, I love Nimman, it's young, hip, and trendy and still close to all the Old Town attractions.

You can read my entire guide on the best Chiang Mai accommodation options right here.

Day 20: Chiang Rai

On day 21, you'll be heading to the beautiful Chiang Rai province in North Thailand. Getting from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is super easy – just hop on a bus to the Arcade Bus Station in northern Chiang Mai, and from there, it's just a 3-hour bus ride that leaves every hour. Book ahead.

Chiang Rai is a city situated on the banks of the Kok River, and let me tell you, it offers some of the most spectacular views I've ever seen! This city is famous for its stunning temples, including the immense White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the blue Wat Rong Suea Ten Temple.

These are must-see attractions in Chiang Rai, as they're probably some of the most beautiful temples in Thailand.

Another favorite is the Night Bazaar in Chiang Rai! It's held every day from 6 pm to midnight, and it's a food lover's paradise. You'll get a chance to sample some of the best street food in Thailand. Personally, I highly recommend trying the khao soi, a delicious noodle soup made with coconut milk – it's one of my favorite night market meals.

Last but not least, make sure to visit Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, one of my favorite restaurants in north Thailand.

This beautiful manor houses a lovely cafe and restaurant, and they make the best all-around dishes in the country. It's simply amazing to come here for breakfast and enjoy their barista-made coffee, but it's equally incredible to visit for lunch or dinner and indulge in their international or traditional dishes.

A day trip is a great option to see the best of Chiang Rai in a short time, if you decide to stay here for a night or two, I mapped out all the best areas and hotels in this article.

Day 21: Bangkok

On your last day, you can hop back on the bus to Chiang Mai and then catch a flight to Bangkok. Here, you have two options: either stay at the airport and fly out from there, or spend another night in Bangkok. 

There's still so much more to explore and enjoy in this city that even after spending multiple weeks in the Thai capital, I haven't seen everything yet. You might have missed out on some amazing experiences during your first visit, like the Chatuchak Weekend Market and plenty of fantastic rooftop bars and restaurants.

If you have another full day, consider taking a trip to the beautiful town of Kanchanaburi, which has a fascinating history. Check out my guide to Kanchanaburi if you want to learn more about this charming little town.

Thailand Pre-Travel Facts – Frequently Asked Questions

Before you start your Thailand adventure, there are a few things you should know and sort out to make your travel journey a little easier.

To help you out, I've put together a little FAQ to answer the most common questions people ask me all the time.

⭐ How to get to Thailand

You'll find plenty of direct flights from major cities in the US and Europe – coming from Australia you can fly direct from Sydney or Melbourne. Keep flexible with dates and watch the fares to score a good deal!

If you're coming from another country in Southeast Asia, there are also many bus routes that pass through Thailand, especially to Bangkok and Chiang Mai. I once entered Thailand from Cambodia via bus and the border crossing and journey from Battambang to Bangkok was smooth sailing.

❓The best time to visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and April. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny with temperatures hovering around 25-35 degrees Celsius. However, if you're looking for a more laidback atmosphere, then I highly recommend visiting during the low season (May-October) when the prices are lower and there are fewer people around. 

I know it's technically the rainy season, but it usually only rains for a short downpour during the day, or even just at night. So, if you're on a tighter budget, coming during the off-season or the shoulder season is definitely an option.

🏨 Is Thailand safe to visit

Yes, Thailand is generally a safe place to visit and I haven't had any troubles as a solo female traveler.

To make sure you stay safe during your travels, always be aware of your surroundings and don't leave any valuables or possessions unattended. Additionally, it's also a good idea to learn some basic Thai phrases so that you can communicate with locals when needed.

🚗How to get around in Thailand

Traveling around in Thailand is a breeze. You've got so many options depending on what you want to do and where you want to go. Within cities, the most common way is probably just hailing down a tuk-tuk or a Songthaw, a shared public tuk-tuk or even booking an Uber.

On most of the islands and in the north of Thailand, you can also easily hire your own scooter. Bangkok is the only exception where I wouldn't recommend renting a scooter because the traffic is insane. However, Bangkok has a great public transport network with the MRT, trams, trains, and boats on the river.

When it comes to traveling between cities, flying is the easiest option with many domestic airports throughout the country (Air Asia offers many affordable flights throughout the whole country). But if you're on a budget, there are also more affordable options like sleeper buses and sleeper trains.

Especially when traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or from Bangkok to the southern part of Thailand, you can save a significant amount of money. Additionally, opting for a sleeper bus or train will also save you the cost of a night's accommodation, win-win!

❓Getting a visa for Thailand

If you're planning a trip to Thailand from certain countries (including most EU countries, the US, and Australia), you'll be happy to know that you can enter the country with a visa on arrival.

It's usually valid for 30 days, so no need to stress about getting it beforehand. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least another 6 months and present it at the airport upon arrival.

📍Thailand Costs

Thailand is an incredible country that truly has it all! You'll find a wide range of options, from luxurious 5-star resorts to budget-friendly choices loved by backpackers. The cost of your trip to Thailand will depend on your travel style and budget but don't worry, there are options for everyone!

For budget travelers, you can get by with around US$25-40 per day. This would cover approximately US$8-15 for food, US$8-15 for accommodation, US$5-10 for transportation, and US$10-20 for attractions and activities. It's all about finding the best deals and making the most of your money!

If you're looking for a mid-range or more luxurious trip, you'll be looking at slightly higher expenses. Plan to spend around US$15-25+ on food, anywhere from US$20-$150+ on accommodation depending on your needs, US$10-25 on transportation, and US$20-50+ on attractions and activities. Remember, these prices are a rough estimate and can always vary and also depend on the season.

⭐ Wi-Fi and Internet

The good news is that finding free Wi-Fi in Thailand isn't hard at all. Most restaurants, cafes, and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. The internet is pretty good here, I've never had any trouble. Even on the islands in the south, I've always had a good internet connection. So, even digital nomads or people working remotely shouldn't have an issue with the internet here.

If you want to buy a SIM card, then I recommend True Move or Dtac. They have a great 5G/4G network throughout the whole country, and it's also super affordable.

I actually used the eSIM from Airalo on my most recent visit to Thailand and it worked without any issues, plus it was super affordable and cost me only US$19.95 for unlimited data and uses the Dtac network!

3 week Thailand itinerary – Final Words

Thailand was one of the first countries in Southeast Asia I've ever been to, and let me tell you, it's got so much to offer! From the tropical paradise to the culturally rich north of Thailand, you'll be blown away by its beauty.

It's the perfect country for your first adventure in Asia. Most people here speak English, the hostels and hotels are some of the best in Southeast Asia, and infrastructure and transportation is a breeze.

I really hope that my 3 week Thailand itinerary makes it a little easier for you and takes away some of the stress when it comes to planning your own trip. And hey, whatever you do, don't forget to take some time to simply enjoy the journey. It's all part of your Thailand trip.