Spend Two Weeks in Thailand (Steal This Itinerary!)

Plotting out your time in Thailand may sound easy enough. Book flights. Eat all of the noodles. Have a delightful time.

The thing is, Thailand has enough going on that it can be challenging to figure out what to prioritize, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

During our first trip to Thailand, we knew we wanted beaches, elephants, and time in the country’s delicious cities. We had two weeks in Thailand to work with, but even so, we stayed busy and on the move to tick off everything on our wish list.

Steal our Thailand itinerary if you want a similarly epic adventure on your first trip to this magical place. It certainly met our expectations and more!

Is two weeks in Thailand enough?

You will always want more time in Thailand, but two weeks is a generous amount of time to see the country’s highlights.

That said, if you’re short on vacation days, don’t let me dissuade you from visiting Thailand. You can even work with less than a week if you’re here for a city break in Bangkok.

For most, it does take some effort to get to Thailand, so giving yourself some time to recover at the front end is always a good idea.

When to Visit Thailand

The best months to go to Thailand are during the cool season from November through February. Temperatures are comfortable during this time and the days are mostly dry.

Thailand has three seasons: rainy, cool, and hot. I don’t want to dissuade anyone from visiting Thailand during that rainy season from May through October, but the rain can get intense, especially in the south.

Expect temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the hot months from March through May.

How to Spend Two Weeks in Thailand

An ideal Thailand itinerary should include a little of everything and all that Thailand is known for: beaches, delicious food, and cultural sites.

Here’s a rundown of the perfect Thailand itinerary:

• Days 1-2: Bangkok
• Day 3: Bangkok Day Trip
• Day 4: Sukhothai
• Days 5-7: Chiang Mai
• Days 8-9: Chiang Mai Day Trips
• Day 10: Krabi
• Days 11-14: Thai Islands

READ MORE: If you’re super early in the planning process, my Thailand trip planning guide has everything you need to get you started.

How you get around Thailand will be determined by how much time you have. With two weeks, we used a mix of regional flights if distances were long and local buses and trains for shorter routes.

I would only recommend self-drive travel in Thailand if you’re a very experienced driver, especially in and around the country’s main cities. The driving can get intense!

Days 1-2: Bangkok

This itinerary starts on your first full day in Thailand. I assume you’ll have to deal with some jet lag upon arrival, but there’s no time to waste if you arrive in the morning as we did. Drop those bags off at your accommodations and embrace the chaos.

Bangkok is full of wonder if you embrace this vibrant city for what it is. It’s loud, with some of the worst traffic this side of Los Angeles.

It’s also delicious, with heaps of culture and some of the most impressive Bangkok temples you’ll see on your Thailand travels.

Spend your first few days getting acclimated to things like dirt cheap smoothies, bowls upon bowls of noodles, and more temples, or wats, than you can count.

I have a complete Bangkok itinerary at the ready for you, but here are a few highlights and places you shouldn’t miss:

• Wat Arun: The Temple of the Dawn is easily seen from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, but make sure you get a closer look, too.
• Khao San Road: Yes, it’s a tourist trap. With every tourist trap comes some excellent people-watching of locals interacting with said tourists.
• Wat Pho: The giant reclining Buddha here is quite impressive, but it’s also home to the Thai Traditional Massage School. Head there first for an appointment to bliss.
• Lumphini Park: Experience some quiet in the city in this beautiful green space. If you’re there early enough, you may observe locals engaging in tai chi.
• The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: Visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha together. Purchase timed tickets online to beat the crowds.

We were able to explore Bangkok on our own, but if you’re interested in a guided tour or experience, check out these highly-rated options:

For your first round of overnights, our pick was the Baan Wanglang Riverside. I’d highly recommend it for easy access to Bangkok attractions, friendly staff, and river views.

Use the map below for more options in Bangkok:

Day 3: Bangkok Day Trip

Three days in Bangkok allows you some wiggle room.

For a better overview of the region, head outside of the hustle and bustle of Bangkok on this day to explore all of the intrigues just beyond the city.

Here are some favorites:

• Kanchanaburi: This was our choice. The town is noteworthy for the Death Railway, named as such because of the death rates among workers who built the railroad during World War II. 
• Pattaya: This coastal city is known for its nightlife and beachy vibes, all without having to head over to the Thai islands to do it. It’s popular on the Thailand backpacker route, too.
• Khao Yai National Park: Nature lovers will love the national park offerings just outside of Bangkok. A highlight of this one is Nam Tok Haew Narok or Hell Gorge Waterfall.
• Hua Hin: This seaside resort town boasts excellent shopping and nightlife for a well-rounded city break. If the weather’s nice, the beaches here are a selling point, too.
• Ayutthaya: Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was on our list initially until we replaced it with Sukhothai. I’d love to go back to see this complex, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam.

Our day trip to the Death Railway was on a guided tour, and I’d highly recommend you do the same for efficiency’s sake.

Check it out below, along with a few more guided Bangkok day trips:

Day 4: Sukhothai

You won’t often find this one on a Thailand travel itinerary, but I urge you to consider Sukhothai as an essential stop on your trip.

We caught an early morning flight on this day and headed straight for the main highlight here: Sukhothai Historical Park.

The easiest way to get around the park isn’t on foot, but by renting one of the rusty bicycles available at any number of bike shops around the park’s entrance.

Fun fact: The history at this historical site dates back to the 13th century, when the park was the seat of the Sukhothai Kingdom. The ruins are impressive, Explore 21 historical sites and another 70 sites within the three miles around the historical park. Yup.

Read about all of the highlights in my guide to Sukhothai, but here are a few sites you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

• Wat Mahathat: This is the largest temple in the park and the site of all those lotus blossom pics you may have seen online.
• Wat Sa Si: This temple in the central zone lives on a lovely little island within the park. It’s approached via a footbridge, which is just as scenic as it sounds.
• Wat Traphang-Ngoen: The large pond out front of this one is known as Silver Lake, a lovely spot to take it all in and imagine the past splendor of this place.
• Wat Saphan Hin: Good things come to those who put in the effort. Head to this hilltop temple in the western zone for expansive views and to lose the tourists.
• Wat Si Chum: This relic in the northern zone hides quite a large Buddha if you venture inside. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park.

Sukhothai is seen most efficiently from the back of a rusty bike, but guided tours are also an option. Here are some highly-rated Sukhothai tours:

You’ll want to stay in Sukhothai, likely “New Sukthohai,” on this night before heading north. Don’t expect much in the way of apartment-style accommodations here. Choose one of the many comfortable, budget-friendly hotels or guesthouses.

Our pick was the Legendha Sukhothai. I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for easy access to the historical park and a delicious breakfast included in your stay.

Use the map below for even more options:

Days 5-7: Chiang Mai

Give yourself some buffer here to head to Chiang Mai, the pride of northern Thailand. It took us the better part of an afternoon to travel via bus from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai.

Note: Expect to tack on some extra time to whatever travel time you’re expecting when navigating Thailand using public transportation. You’ll usually be riding in comfort, particularly when booking the VIP options, but sometimes you just can’t foresee the random stops your trip may be subjected to on your journey. It’s all good.

One day mostly gone, drown your sorrow in some of the most delicious eats in Chiang Mai on your first partial day in the city. SP Chicken and the Tikky Cafe were our favorites on our visit.

Bellies full and recovered from your journey north, spend the next two full days on a tour of the best of Chiang Mai.

My Chiang Mai itinerary is a detailed look at our travels there, but here are a few highlights:

• Wat Chedi Luang: This historic complex in the city was once home to multiple temples. Strolling around the ruins is quite the experience, especially as you think about how grand this place once was.
• Wat Phra Signh: Built in 1345, this gilded wat is one of the most important historical sites in Chiang Mai, so prioritize this one on your temple-hopping. Meet the Lion Buddha while you’re there.
• Chiang Mai Nightlife: You came for the culture, but you stayed for the street food and maybe some Muay Thai. Both the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the cowboy hat lady at the Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak food stall are worth your time.
• Nimmanhaemin: This trendy Chiang Mai neighborhood is worth a day. Walking tours are the best way to find the boutiques, cafes, and ice cream shops that strike your fancy.
• Wat Chiang Man: This is the city’s oldest temple, guarded today by a herd of stone elephants and dragons. It’s quite atmospheric and worth budgeting some time to linger.

Chiang Mai is very doable on your feet. You can also make use of the transportation options throughout the city. If you haven’t ridden in a songthaew yet, by the way, now’s your chance!

If you need a guided tour or you’re looking for more of a guided experience, you have options:

If you’re a first-time visitor to Chiang Mai, staying in and around the Old City will allow you to hit all of the main highlights with efficiency. My favorite neighborhood, though, is Nimmanhaemin.

Use the map below to help you narrow down your options:

Days 8-9: Chiang Mai Day Trips

Chiang Mai is fantastic, but it’s also a great base for all kinds of adventures outside of the city limits.

Set aside at least two days outside of Chiang Mai proper to seek out the experiences you’re most intrigued by. You’ll find opportunities to explore beautiful parks, climb destination temples, and meet some adorable Thai elephants while based in Chiang Mai.

Here are my favorites:

• Elephant Nature Park: This park is an ethical elephant sanctuary that allows you to meet those pachyderms in responsible ways. My guide to Chiang Mai elephant parks goes into our own experience and how to find ethical establishments.
• Doi Inthanon National Park: We booked a driver for our Doi Inthanon trip, an easy day away from Chiang Mai. See waterfalls, stretch your legs on easy trails, and get yourself to the roof of Thailand at Doi Inthanon National Park.
• Wat Rong Khun: Known as the White Temple, this unique place in Chiang Rai is on the lengthy side for Chiang Mai day trips. It’s definitely at the top of my list for repeat visits to northern Thailand.
• Wat Tham Chiang Dao: See an impressive temple and the mysterious Chiang Dao Cave on this adventure from Chiang Mai. This is a place of meditation for Thai locals, so make sure to be respectful on visits here.
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: This destination temple’s mountaintop perch makes for not only incredible views of Chiang Mai and beyond but also a spiritual experience. Climb the 306 steps as the locals do for the full experience.

If you book the Elephant Nature Park, something I hope you’ll consider, they’ll pick you up and drop you off at your Chiang Mai accommodations.

Here are a few more options for getting to and from the Chiang Mai day trips I mentioned:

Day 10: Krabi

You’re transitioning from the jungles of northern Thailand to island life in the last part of your travels. The most efficient way to do so is to take a regional flight south to Krabi, arriving by mid-afternoon.

Spend the day resting or tackle a light Krabi itinerary while you’re there.

Here are my highlights from our trip to Krabi and Railay Beach, a perfect way to kick off your Thai island fun:

• Ao Nang: Before boarding a ferry to your Thailand island-hopping, give this little town its due. At the very least, find some delicious rolled ice cream at one of the shops near the harbor.
• Longtail Tours: Take a longtail boat from Ao Nang to Railay Beach, well worth as much time as you’re able to give it. There’s a ticket booth at the main harbor in Ao Nang. Advance notice isn’t necessary, as things are casual around here.
• Phra Nang Beach: This beach on Railay Bay is stunning, but that’s not why you’re here. You’re here for the cave of wonder and phalluses. Just go ahead and take a look already.
• Thung Teao Forest Natural Park: If you’re looking to extend your time in and around Krabi, consider doing so for this park. It’s home to the glimmering Emerald Pool.
• Tew Lay Bar: You’ll likely have the bar almost to yourself when you arrive. That’s because it can be hard to find. Have a map downloaded for offline use to find this isolated paradise.

Choose accommodations in Krabi town or on Railay Beach for the night. Krabi town will mean easier access to your island-hopping the next morning, but Railay Beach may be more scenic for you.

We stuck with accommodations in town at the Well Timed Hotel. It was very inexpensive and suited our purposes for one night. It’s also not far from the airport if you need that access.

Use the map below for more options:

Days 11-14: The Islands of Thailand

Ending your Thailand adventure itinerary with a few days to explore the country’s beautiful islands is almost a no-brainer.

You’ll give yourself some beach time to not only rest from your days traveling Thailand but also reflect on everything you’ve seen on your trip.

We spent the tail-end of our trip on Koh Lanta, and the Thai island quickly became one of our favorite places in the world. While it’s becoming more popular on Thailand travel routes, it’s still not overrun with tourists like some of the other big islands.

Fun fact: Koh Lanta is thought to be one of the oldest communities in Thailand, with evidence that there were people here since the prehistoric period.

I have a Koh Lanta guide at the ready for you if you’re interested in the same. It includes how we got around and what we did while we were there. The Thai cooking class we took while there was one of our favorite experiences, by the way.

Koh Lanta is best seen from the back of a motorbike if you’re not too worried about your kidneys bouncing up and down for the entirety of a journey. Don’t bother with any guided tours while you’re there, as this is the end, folks.

It’s time to relax a bit.

If you want to do some island hopping, a very popular option on even a multi-day Thailand itinerary, you have so many choices.

Here are a few popular options:

• Koh Phangan: Party-seekers, this one is for you. This island is home to the infamous full moon party. It’s very much tourist-heavy, but do with that what you will.
• Koh Tao: One of the most visited islands in Thailand, Koh Tao is known for its spectacular diving. Snorkeling’s available for the more delicate among you.
• Koh Samui: High-end travelers will love the luxe vibes on Koh Samui. Check out the north side of the island for the best beaches.
• Koh Lipe: This island packs quite the punch in a small package. It’s often referred to as the Maldives of Thailand, and that’s definitely a compliment.
• Phi Phi Islands: Most guides will mention these (Koh Phi Phi Don, or Ko Phi Phi Don, is the largest) for their connection to The Beach, but they’re super crowded.

This is just a sampling of Thai islands that may be up your alley on your travel itinerary for Thailand. James Bond Island on Phang Nga Bay and Phuket are here for you if you want to party. I’m just too old for some of that.

If you’re taking my advice and choosing Koh Lanta out of your Thai island options, I’d highly recommend the Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort.

This resort, formerly known as the Crown Lanta Resort & Spa, is where we stayed. The staff is world-class, and the beach access is quite the perk. I loved it!

Use the map below to browse more options:

With More Time on a Trip to Thailand

Thailand is an excellent destination for slow travel. With more time, here’s what I would have added to our trip:

• Ayutthaya: I have no regrets about choosing Sukhothai over this historical site, especially after learning how busy it can get, but it’s still at the top of my list.
• Chiang Rai: Visit Chiang Rai’s White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, and use the city as a base for the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge.
• Phi Phi Islands: They’re super popular, but the desire is there to see what all of the fuss is about.
• Phuket: I know I said I was too old for Phuket, but there has to be a time of year when this place isn’t overrun by coeds, right?
• Ubon Ratchathani: The city is known for its annual candle city, which sounds quite atmospheric. It’s also an access point for Cambodia.

READ MORE: Love a bucket list destination? You’ll want to check out South Africa’s Cape Town next.

The Cost of Two Weeks in Thailand

How much money you need for two weeks in Thailand depends on your travel style. The average budget for a two-week trip starts at around $1,000.

That includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and excursions, but you’ll need to add flight costs on top of that total.

Despite its popularity with backpackers, expats, and the average tourist, Thailand remains a budget-friendly destination alongside much of the rest of Southeast Asia.

The food is cheap, particularly if you’re after some of Thailand’s best street food. You can also usually find good flight deals to get out to Bangkok, the main transportation hub in the country.

Note: Deals to Bangkok, particularly from LAX, happen quite often, although the best deals may come with long layovers. Check prices but consider the time spent getting to Thailand in your strategy.

Public transportation is available throughout Thailand, as well, although where you save some baht, you may lose out on time and efficiency.

Thailand will always be one of our favorites.

Thailand is worth visiting for its scenery, possibilities for adventure, and its food scene. What I loved the most outside of all of the eating on our two-week Thailand itinerary, though, was interacting with the Thai people.

This is truly one of the friendliest countries I’ve visited in my travels, and it’s a big reason why I’d love to find myself back there one day.

The people here welcome travelers with open arms. You could end up learning quite a bit about Thailand and yourself if you let yourself get more closely acquainted with the local culture. It’s the best way to see Thailand.

Planning more bucket list trips? Here’s some inspiration:

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