Ultimate 14-Days in Thailand Itinerary: For Your First Visit

Amazing Thailand! This is how Thailand Tourism sums up what their country has to offer, and I couldn't agree more. Explore how amazing Thailand can be by flying in and gallivanting on its cities and islands. Whether you’re a nature and mountain lover, an adventure seeker, a beach bum, a diver, or a little bit of everything, you will surely have a memorable trip to the land that was once called Siam.

There are so many places that Thailand has to offer and you’ll certainly have a challenge when coming up with the best way to plan your trip to Thailand.

I’ve planned only the best places and experiences that save you tedious weeks of planning and make you say, Amazing Thailand, in no time!

How Long To Spend In Thailand To See It All

With proper time management and an efficient travel itinerary, you can see the best attractions across Thailand in a matter of 2 weeks.

If you have more than 2 weeks, great, I added a few more attractions to see along the way at the bottom. This Thailand itinerary is for those who want to see the most in 2 weeks! If you want to go at a slower pace, I recommend you stick to either Southern Thailand or simply choose 2-4 places max.

Day 1-2: Explore Bangkok's Highlights

Day 1: Things To Do In Bangkok

The best way to explore and travel through Thailand in 2 weeks is of course starting in its capital city Bangkok. Even though Bangkok is very touristy, there’s a reason why so many travellers flock to the iconic landmarks and historical temples of Bangkok.

Bangkok Top Highlights

For your first day, go temple hopping which includes the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. You could also cover the Jim Thompson House and the National Gallery on your first day if you're longing for more cultural activities.

In the afternoon, board a boat and discover the Chao Phraya River. Alternatively, for a more residential and quieter experience, there are small teak boats that take you down narrow waterways/khlongs around the Thonburi neighborhood.

It might be a long day but don’t go to bed just yet. Bangkok has one of the liveliest and most entertaining nights in all of Thailand. Ladyboy cabaret shows are a hit, if you choose to go, make sure to choose one that isn't sleazy, such as the Calypso Cabaret Bangkok at Asiatique The Riverfront, a large open-air mall.

Alternatively, laze at one of Bangkok’s amazing rooftop hotel pools or head to one of the classy rooftop bars for sunset and a drink.

Day 2: Go Off The Beaten Path In Bangkok

For day two, start by visiting one of the Floating Markets, Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa Floating Markets are the most well-known.

Alternatively, if you'd like to get away from the crowds you swam in on your first day in Bangkok, go off the beaten path and visit my furry friends at Caturday Cat Cafe or Neverland Dog Cafe, all depending on if you're a cat or dog person.

Spend the rest of the day shopping in the very best malls in the country such as Siam Paragon, MBK and Central Worlds.

In the evening, head to Chinatown (Yaowarat) to feast on some delicious street food.

Where To Stay In Bangkok

Bangkok has plenty of accommodation options at different price points.

($$$) Mandarin Oriental Hotel: For a luxurious stay near the river. Rooms with the most stunning views. – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

($$) Siam @ Siam Design Hotel: A mid-range option that I personally loved staying at – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

($) 3Howw Hostel @ Sukhumvit 21: For a bed on a budget in a dormitory-style room, clean and comfortable, located right in the heart of Bangkok in the famous Sukhumvit area – Check current rates on Booking.com

Day 3-5: Temple Hopping in Chiang Mai

Day 3: Things To Do In Chiang Mai

For the next three eventful days, you'll be exploring the second-largest city in Thailand, Chiang Mai.

Fly from Bangkok directly to Chiang Mai for just over 1 hour or take an overnight train, an experience that you shouldn't miss if you have time and feel a little more adventurous.

Spend your first day in Chiang Mai's Old Town with temple hopping, one of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai. The most popular temples in Chiang Mai are Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chiang Man. In total, the city of Chiang Mai has a staggering 300 temples!!

Night Markets In Chiang Mai

After sundown, visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or if you are here on the weekend, there are plenty of awesome night markets boasting an assortment of souvenirs and handicrafts. I absolutely love the Sunday Walking Street starting from Tha Phae Gate.

Chiang Mai's night markets are my favourite out of all other places in Thailand as they have the best Thai food, the friendliest locals and the most unique souvenirs.

Where To Stay In Chiang Mai

($$$) Rachamankha Hotel: Right in the heart of the old city walls of Chiang Mai, this hotel is beautifully designed with great furnishings and an amazing pool – Check current rates on Booking.com

($$) 99 Heritage Hotel: I highly recommend treating you to a luxe stay in the heart of the Old City just a stone's throw from all the popular temples – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

($) Sherloft Home & Hostel: For accommodation in Chiang Mai, hostel dorm rooms in the Old City of Chiang Mai are very affordable and this one is cozy with a beautiful garden – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

Day 4: Cooking Class & Doi Suthep

Get creative on your second day in Chiang Mai. A Thai cooking class is one of the things I recommend doing most while in Chiang Mai. Another option would be a photography tour around the stunning city of Chiang Mai. You can also join a jewellery-making class or art workshop. Chiang Mai is all about unleashing your creativity.

Alternatively, book a yoga class, there are plenty of studios to choose from.

At sunset, make your way up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple on the hill, which gives you a perfect viewpoint as well as a unique ceremony experience with the monks chanting. End your day with dinner and a soothing Thai massage back in town.

Day 5: Take a Day Trip Outside of Chiang Mai

Just a short trip outside of Chiang Mai lies many other incredible experiences, such as various mountain trips on a scooter, if you fancy hiring one. Alternatively, join one of the more adrenaline-packed activities like river rafting, zip lining, and rock climbing.

You can also visit Chiang Dao Cave outside Chiang Mai. Additionally, Chiang Mai offers some of the best hiking experiences in Thailand, with its lush greenery, wildlife, and stunning mountain views. From short nature walks to multi-day treks, there's a lot to do in this beautiful region of Thailand.

Visit the Elephant Nature Park, where you'll get to hang with those beautiful, gentle creatures and even bathe them in the river. Talk about a one-of-a-kind experience!

Day 6-8: Phuket & Its Beaches

Day 6: Temples, Parties & Markets

Time to head down south to the islands of Thailand. Fly from Chiang Mai directly to Phuket, which takes about 2 hours.

Start your trip and marvel at the million mirror reflections at Wat Chalong temple. Then, cool down at Patong Beach or any of the beaches nearby like Kata or Karon Beach, if you fancy a quieter, less touristy experience.

Tons of restaurants are around these beaches. Patong in particular is also the place to be for partygoers at night.

If you fancy something else than the beach, take a stroll around the quaint and picture-perfect Old Phuket Town with its mix of colonial and Chinese-style buildings, Sino-Portuguese houses, and charming restaurants and shops.

If you're coming to Phuket with family and kids, there are some cool theme parks such as Andamanda Phuket, Phuket Fantasea or Carnival Magic.

Where To Stay In Phuket

Deevana Plaza Hotel (Patong Beach): If you want to stay close to the beach, it's a little away from Phuket Walking Street, clean and close to the beach – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

Vijitt Resort Phuket (Friendship Beach): This luxurious hotel is a good choice if you don't fancy the craziness of Patong and rather want to stay on the other side of the Phuket peninsular – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

99 Old Town Boutique Guest House (Phuket Town): Featuring Sino-Portuguese architecture and set in a historical building right in Phuket Town. The best place to stay if you want to catch the ferry out to the Phi Phi or the Similan Islands the next morning – Check current rates on Booking.com | Agoda

Day 7 & 8: Beaches & Things To Do Around Phuket

During the next two days in Phuket, you should visit the 45-metre-tall Buddha statue located atop a flight of stairs on Nakkerd Hills. This aptly named Big Buddha can even be seen from Karon Beach and Phuket Town.

Aside from seeing this incredible Buddha statue, the place also offers an unrivaled 360-degree panoramic view of the town. Later, hit some of the best beaches on the peninsular:

• Patong Beach: Vibrant nightlife and water sports.
• Kata Beach: Soft white sand, great for families and surfers.
• Karon Beach: Long, quiet, ideal for sunbathing.
• Surin Beach: Crystal-clear waters and luxury resorts.
• Nai Harn Beach: A hidden gem with picturesque, calm waters, perfect for swimming.

In the evening, prepare to hit the night market in Patong.

Day 9-11: Phi Phi Islands

Day 9: Phi Phi Island Hopping

Today you'll leave Phuket to go island hopping. Phi Phi Island is a famous spot to visit. Ferries take around two hours to get to the island from Phuket. Spend your first day on the island by hitting the beach, it's definitely beautiful. Get a tan and grab a snack at the many bay-front restaurants or little shops.

Or go enjoy the surrounding islands and bays in a unique way by boat. I loved visiting Maya Bay where you'll discover the Viking Caves, snorkel and swim at Phi Leh Bay. There are also boat tours to James Bond Island or many others.

Day 10 & 11: Diving & Snorkelling the Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi is not just beautiful for its seashores but also its underwater world, so how about going on a diving trip? Perhaps one of the most magical experiences you’ll get to have in Thailand is swimming with the bioluminescent plankton at night if you opt for a night dive or overnight boat trip.

Explore the deep blue in world-class dive sites such as King Cruiser Wreck, Shark Point, and Anemone Reef.

Take another day to just relax on the beach.

In the later afternoon, take a walk to Phi Phi viewpoint for some panoramic views.

Day 12-14: Krabi & Ao Nang

Time to depart back to the mainland and onwards to Krabi and Ao Nang! It's the best starting point to go on a longtail boat and visit some of Thailand’s stunning islands. Many of the standard island hopping trips will take you to Poda Island, Tup Island, Chicken Island, and Phra Nang Cave which are in the Ao Nang Bay area.

The islands feature uniquely shaped white shores and limestone cliffs that are oh-so-picture-perfect so don’t forget to snap some shots while you’re at it.

Back in Ao Nang, take a stroll around Ao Nang Night Market, a night market to satisfy any foodie’s raging appetite after so many hours in the water and sun. After that, you can get a cold one at one of the many bars and just chill with reggae beats in the background.

Where to Stay in Krabi/Ao Nang

Panan Krabi Resort: I highly recommend you stay in Ao Nang Beach, this hotel is a perfect choice right by the beach – Check current rates on Booking.com

Sleep Whale Hotel: A mid-range option – Check current rates on Booking.com

Pak-Up Hostel: A good spot and very affordable in Krabi Town, perfect for budget travellers – Check current rates on Booking.com

Extra Places To Visit On Your 2-Week Thailand Itinerary

Alternative to Phuket: Choose Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao are three of the largest gulf islands of Thailand. All three are magnificent places to enjoy the island life but they have unique features that make one stand out from the rest.

Koh Phangan is infamous for its Full Moon Party. Enjoy its booze, beats, and beach. It tends to attract a younger crowd in general.

Koh Samui is the most developed one. It has luxurious hotel resorts as well as waterparks and fun activities that are family-friendly.

Koh Tao is the island for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The marine life around the island will leave you in awe. This is also a great place to get an affordable PADI scuba diving certificate. Weigh your options and visit one of these stunning islands.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a quiet island known for its coral-fringed beaches, extensive mangroves, rainforest and limestone backdrops.

Hop on a boat tour that will bring you to Koh Chuerk for snorkelling, Emerald Cave for a unique time, Koh Kradan for lunch and sunbathing, and Koh Mah for snorkelling. If you rather stay on solid ground, rent a scooter and have a ride around Koh Lanta, there are many hidden spots to discover, such as the ancient old town with its wooden houses.

You could also consider staying beachfront at the Lanta Sand Resort & Spa if you are looking for a bit more comfort, staying in large, clean and extremely tranquil villas.

Pai, Northern Thailand

If you're in Northern Thailand and you want to explore some more places within the mountains, then I recommend you enjoy a laidback few days in the hippy town of Pai. A few of its major attractions are the Tha Pai Hot Springs, Mo Paeng Waterfalls, Pam Bok Waterfalls, The Land Split, and Pai Canyon.

In the evening, visit Klang Temple, Wat Phrathat Mae Yen, and Pai Walking Street, which come alive at night with so many dazzling lights.

You’ll never go wrong with Pai Vimaan Resort as the place to stay. It has a pool, mountain views, and an in-house massage.

Ayutthaya

If you are on your way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you could easily make a stop in Ayutthaya for a night.

Many would swear by the beauty of exploring Ayutthaya by bicycle. Go at your own pace and you can stop wherever and whenever you want. Some of the places not to miss are Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Chan Kasem Museum.

Delight your sweet tooth with Ayutthaya’s delicacy called Roti Sai Mai, which you can buy at the local market. I recommend Baan Tye Wang Hotel as your accommodation. Its local-inspired designs in green surroundings are just what you need to escape to after a long day.

Khao Lak & Khao Sok National Park

By far one of the most beautiful Southern Thailand destinations is the Khao Lak and Khao Sok National Parks where nature lovers and adventure seekers find their fill. You can get here from Surat Thani Airport or Phuket.

The national park consists of evergreen rainforests, limestone mountains, deep valleys, lakes, and caves. Varied activities are offered like an up-close experience with elephants, jungle trekking, canoeing, kayaking, bamboo rafting, boat tours and bird watching.

Cost of Travelling to Thailand

You can make your trip to Thailand as cheap or as expensive as you want to.

Depending on the season and where you travel from, it makes sense to book your plane tickets further in advance to get the cheapest deals. Accommodation-wise, you’ll find something within your budget because many places in Thailand have a variety of backpacker hostels, as well as luxury resorts to choose from.

As for food, the cheapest finds are always at markets or street vendors along busy parts of town. Restaurant and hotel meals are more expensive.

For transport, I found flying around Thailand inexpensive even if you book on short notice. A good tip for booking trains is to book in advance online to save money. I like using 12Go to compare trains and ferries.

Taking taxis around the country entails good haggling skills and making sure you always, always set the price before hopping in! An alternative would be booking a private car. There’s also the choice of tuk-tuks but in many cases, hiring a taxi is cheaper and more comfortable as all tuk-tuk drivers I've ever had were rather reckless.

Your Thailand trip cost can vary greatly, depending on your liking, so you can go as cheap or as expensive as you want really.

Here's a rough breakdown:

Budget Travel (Backpacker Style)

• Accommodation: US$5-$15 per night (hostels, budget guesthouses)
• Food: US$5-$10 per day (street food, local eateries)
• Transportation: US$1-$10 per day (public transport, rented scooters)
• Activities: US$5-$20+ per day (temple visits, hiking, local tours)

Total for a 14 day Thailand trip: US$350-$700

Mid-Range Travel

• Accommodation: US$20-$50 per night (3-star hotels, boutique guesthouses)
• Food: US$10-$25 per day (local restaurants, cafes)
• Transportation: US$10-$20 per day (taxis, buses, occasional flights)
• Activities: US$20-$50 per day (guided tours, entrance fees, special activities)

Total for 2 weeks in Thailand: US$1,000-$1,700

Luxury Travel

• Accommodation: US$100-$300+ per night (4-5 star hotels, luxury resorts)
• Food: US$25-$50+ per day (fine dining, international cuisine)
• Transportation: US$20-$50+ per day (using private transfers, flights)
• Activities: US$50-$100+ per day (private tours, exclusive experiences)

Total for 14 days in Thailand: US$3,000-$7,000+

14-Days in Thailand Itinerary – Final Words

14-days through Thailand will barely scratch the surface. But it will give you a taste of the bustling streets of Bangkok and the cultural richness of Chiang Mai to the stunning beaches of Phuket.

This itinerary lets you experience a diverse range of what Thailand has to offer in just two weeks, leaving you with a desire to return. If you're also torn between Thailand and Vietnam, this 14-day trip can help you gauge which destination might be your next adventure.