Thailand Itinerary 2 weeks: Must-Sees

This article may contain affiliate links.

Updated: 31 January, 2025

If you're planning a trip to the Land of Smiles, this must-see Thailand itinerary is perfect for your first visit. It’s based on my experience living in the country for three years.

The itinerary includes Bangkok, a wonderful city and its surroundings; the north, which is the most authentic region of the country; and, of course, its paradise islands with crystal-clear waters. At the end of the article, I’ve included a handy interactive map with each location marked.

If you're traveling during the peak monsoon months (May to September), this other Thailand itinerary is ideal for avoiding the rains—in fact, it works year-round, except for October and November.

Thailand Two Week Itinerary

• Days 1-4: Bangkok
• Days 5-7: Chiang Mai
• Days 8-10: Krabi
• Days 11-12: Phi Phi
• Days 13-15: Bangkok

🤑 If you want to save on your next adventure, book your accommodation at this Booking link with a 15% discount.

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

✅ Accommodation in Bangkok: Amara Bangkok in Silom or Wild Orchid on Khao San road.

✅ Places to visit: Explore your hotel’s neighborhood and catch the sunset from Mahanakhon Skywalk.

Arriving in a chaotic, hot city like Bangkok after a long-haul flight and dealing with jet lag can be overwhelming. That’s why I recommend taking it easy on your first day.

To get from Bangkok Airport to the city center, you can take public transport (train or bus), use Grab or Bolt (both affordable), or book this private transfer for convenience.

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, take a walk around the area and try some local street food—you won’t have trouble finding vendors, as they’re on almost every corner!

End your day with a spectacular sunset at the Mahanakhon Skywalk, where you’ll get panoramic views from the observation decks on the 74th and 78th floors. Sunset hours (4–7 PM) have a slightly higher entrance fee, but trust me, it’s worth it! You can book your ticket here. If you're staying at Amara Bangkok, it’s just a 10-minute walk.

⭐ Related articles: How to get from Bangkok airport to the city (all options) and Where to Stay in Bangkok (Best Areas and Hotels).

Day 2: Bangkok

✅ Accommodation in Bangkok: Amara Bangkok in Silom or Wild Orchid on Khao San road.

✅ Places to visit: Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun, and a Chao Phraya River cruise.

Start your day at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), two of Bangkok’s most important landmarks. Since they’re in the same complex, you can visit both in one stop. Then, head to Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha, an enormous golden statue.

Next, take a boat from Tha Tian Pier across the river to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples. It stands out for its Khmer-style central tower, beautifully decorated with seashells and porcelain mosaics.

A great way to experience these sites is with a guided tour—it gives you all the details without the hassle of navigating on your own. I recommend this tour, is affordable and very comprehensive.

When visiting the Grand Palace (and all temples in Thailand), you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees. Some temples offer coverings for rent or purchase, but the easiest solution is to carry a sarong in your bag. This dress code applies to everyone—men, women, and children.

End your day with this dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River It was one of my favorite experiences—watching the sunset, seeing the city lights from the water, and enjoying a relaxed evening. Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable!

⭐ Related articles: What to Do in Bangkok and 12 Best Street Food Restaurants in Bangkok (all in the city center and all Michelin-recommended for excellent quality at great prices).

Day 3: Bangkok

✅ Accommodation in Bangkok: Amara Bangkok in Silom or Wild Orchid on Khao San road.

✅ Places to visit: Maeklong Railway Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Muay Thai Fight, or Wat Saket

Spend the day exploring the Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, two of the most unique markets and best places to see near Bangkok. This is one of my favorite experiences in the area!

The Maeklong Railway Market looks like a typical food market, but several times a day, vendors have to pull back their stalls to let the train pass—a fascinating sight!

Then, head to Damnoen Saduak, Thailand’s most famous floating market, where boats overflow with fresh fruit, local dishes, and handicrafts. I won’t lie—it’s quite touristy, but it’s still worth visiting. Some people think it only exists for tourists, but it has a long history dating back to the Kingdom of Siam, when canals were the main transportation routes.

Getting to these markets by public transport is possible but complicated. The easiest option is this affordable guided tour.

👍 Friend's tip: I don’t recommend shopping at this floating market—prices are quite high. You’ll find the same items much cheaper at other markets in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

To end the day, watch a Muay Thai fight, Thailand’s national sport. I recommend Rajadamnern Stadium, one of the most famous venues. You can book your tickets here.

If Muay Thai isn’t your thing, visit Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount Temple. Climb 318 steps to the top for a stunning panoramic view of Bangkok—sunset here is breathtaking!

On your way up, you’ll see bells like the ones in the photo above—don’t forget to ring them one by one! It’s a tradition believed to bring good luck. 😉

⭐ Related articles: Bangkok Railway Market and Floating Market and 5 Best Tours from Bangkok.

Day 4: Bangkok & Night Train to Chiang Mai

✅ Accommodation: overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

✅ Places to Visit & Transportation: Giant Buddha and Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen or Jim Thompson House, Thai massage, Flower Market, and Chinatown. 🚅 Night train to Chiang Mai

Start your day visiting the Giant Buddha at Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen, a stunning 69-meter-tall golden statue. It's truly impressive, but what caught my attention the most was the green glass stupa inside the pagoda on the top floor (photo below).

Update: As of late 2024, I visited Bangkok, and the Giant Buddha was completely covered in scaffolding for renovation. The temple grounds remain open, but you won’t be able to see the Buddha. Before going, check if the renovation is still ongoing. As an alternative, you can visit Jim Thompson House, which I also included in my Bangkok Must Sees Guide.

A trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without getting at least one Thai massage (or many!). The best place for a Thai massage in Bangkok is right inside the Wat Pho temple complex, though it’s a bit pricey. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, this place offers great prices, and they really know how to give a proper traditional Thai massage. You’ll walk out feeling brand new!

End the day at Pak Khlong Talad, Bangkok’s vibrant Flower Market, bursting with colors, fragrances, and energy. You’ll see vendors carefully crafting beautiful bouquets and traditional floral garlands.

Then, head over to Bangkok’s Chinatown, known for its buzzing atmosphere and incredible street food. It’s one of my favorite areas in the city, and if you’re a food lover, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise! Take your time wandering through neon-lit streets, visit temples like Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, and try classic dishes like dim sum, roasted duck, and Thai-style noodles.

If you want to dive deeper into Thai cuisine, I highly recommend this street food tour I did myself. The guide takes you to the best hidden food stalls in Chinatown—places you’d never find on your own—and explains what to try. Plus, you’ll learn lots of fun facts about the neighborhood. For me, it was one of Bangkok top experiences.

To travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, I highly recommend taking the sleeper train—it’s a unique experience. This is the best overnight train journey in Thailand, and I say that after trying several during my years living here.

Plus, taking the night train saves you the cost of a hotel night. However, I have to warn you—it’s not for everyone. Below, I’ve linked my article with my personal experience, including schedules, prices, and plenty of useful tips. I also explain alternative options like flights, which are cheap and, of course, much faster. You can check the train schedule and book tickets here —depending on the season, you may need to book at least a couple of months in advance.

⭐ Related articles: What is Thai Massage and the Best one in Bangkok and Sleeper Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Day 5: Chiang Mai

✅ Accommodation in Chiang Mai: VIA Thapae Gate in the Old Town.

✅ Places to visit: Old Town, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Night Market.

Depending on your train, you’ll arrive early in the morning or around noon. The easiest way to get to your hotel is by ordering a Grab or Bolt—both are affordable.

For accommodation, I highly recommend staying in Chiang Mai’s Old Town. This way, you’ll be within walking distance of the city’s most iconic landmarks and can enjoy its relaxed atmosphere—which, after Bangkok, you’ll really appreciate!

Take the rest of the day to explore the Old Town, filled with charming cafés, street art, and rich history. It’s easily the most picturesque area of Chiang Mai. While you’re here, make sure to visit at least these two temples: Wat Phra Singh, famous for its intricate wooden carvings and iconic Buddha statue, and Wat Chedi Luang, a historic temple with a partially collapsed stupa that dates back to the 15th century.

In the evening, visit one of Chiang Mai’s amazing night markets, where you’ll find a lively atmosphere, delicious northern Thai food, and plenty of souvenirs. Below, I’ve linked my article about the markets. I’ve also marked three of the best night markets on the map at the end of this article.

⭐ Related articles: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai? (recommended areas and hotels), What to see in Chiang Mai: 16 must-haves, 7 Markets in Chiang Mai: nocturnal and diurnal.

Day 6: Chiang Mai

✅ Accommodation in Chiang Mai: VIA Thapae Gate in the Old Town.

✅ Places to visit: Wat Pha Lat and Wat Doi Suthep, Chinatown and Warorot Market, Khan Toke show.

In the morning, visit Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Wat Pha Lat is a temple nestled in a magical jungle setting—it’s absolutely my favorite temple. Then, head to Wat Doi Suthep, a temple located on top of a mountain with stunning views of the city. Its golden chedi is stunning, and it’s a sacred site for Thai people due to the Buddha relics housed inside. Visiting this temple is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

To get to these temples, I recommend hiking the Monk’s Trail. The first part of the trail, leading to Wat Pha Lat, is fairly easy. The second stretch, up to Doi Suthep, is a bit more challenging.

Alternatively, you can join this affordable guided tour that takes you to both temples, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Afterward, head straight to Chiang Mai’s Chinatown and Warorot Market, known for their authentic vibe and wide variety of local products, from spices to textiles. Both Chinatown and Warorot are where locals do their shopping—it’s where I used to shop when I lived in Chiang Mai!

This is also a great spot to pick up local products like tea and spices or grab a quick bite. Inside Warorot Market, there’s a food court with plenty of stalls and a central seating area. You can enjoy delicious food here for a super low price—don’t miss it!

To wrap up the day, go to the Khan Toke show, a traditional northern Thai dance performance featuring colorful costumes. The show takes place in a beautiful Lanna-style center and includes dinner. You can book your ticket on this website.

⭐ Related articles: Monks Trail in Chiang Mai (trail starting point, details and tips), Warorot Market and Chinatown Guide in Chiang Mai.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

✅ Accommodation in Chiang Mai: VIA Thapae Gate in the Old Town.

✅ Places to visit: Day trip to Chiang Rai.

Spend the day exploring Chiang Rai on a full-day trip. The highlight is the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), famous for its futuristic design and intricate details. You also shouldn’t miss the Black House (Baan Dam Museum), a unique blend of art and architecture with dark and mysterious elements. Then, visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), famous for its vibrant blue color and stunning murals.

You can take a bus to Chiang Rai, but it’s a tight schedule if you try to do it on your own in one day. That’s why the best option is to join this tour to visit all three places.

👍 My Tip: When visiting Chiang Rai, avoid going to the Long Neck Village. Even if it doesn’t seem like it, it’s a place where these people are exploited. The only way to end these practices is for us tourists to stop supporting them.

⭐ Related article: 11 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai (with all transportation alternatives including Chiang Rai).

Day 8: Flight to Krabi

✅ Accommodation in Ao Nang: Krabi Heritage or the Anawin (a budget-friendly option).

✅ Transportation and Places to Visit: ✈ Flight to Krabi and 🚙 transfer to Ao Nang. Explore the village and beach.

To get from Chiang Mai to Krabi, book a flight on this website. Keep in mind that there aren’t direct flights every day, so if your dates are flexible, even better.

Once you land at Krabi Airport, you’ll find minibuses to Ao Nang for just 150 baht. If you're traveling with a lot of luggage or in a group, taking a taxi might be more convenient, and it's still quite affordable. You can book a minibus or taxi on website.

In Krabi province, I recommend staying in Ao Nang, as it’s the best base for island-hopping tours, including trips to Phi Phi Islands. Another great option is Railay, which is absolutely stunning.

Once in Ao Nang, take the rest of the day to explore the town, get a massage, and walk along the beachfront. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants by the beach—such a perfect way to end the day!

⭐ Related article: Where to Stay in Krabi (recommended Areas & Hotels)

Day 9: Krabi

✅ Accommodation in Ao Nang: Krabi Heritage or the Anawin (a budget-friendly option).

✅ Places to visit: Railay Beach & Tiger Cave Temple.

Spend the day exploring Railay Beach, the most spectacular beach in Krabi province, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The only way to get there is by long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach, which costs 100 baht per ride.

Once in Railay, take your time to explore the town and both beaches, swim, and snorkel. You can also rent a kayak, which is a great way to enjoy the stunning surroundings.

If you don’t want to spend the whole day at Railay, in the afternoon you can visit Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea), which offers breathtaking views of the region. Just be prepared to climb 1,260 steps to reach the top! Keep in mind that the temple closes at 5 PM. You can get there by renting a scooter or taking a taxi.

⭐ Related article: How to Rent and Ride a Motorbike in Thailand

Day 10: Krabi

✅ Accommodation in Ao Nang: Krabi Heritage or the Anawin (a budget-friendly option).

✅ Places to visit: Excursion to the 4 islands or the Hong Islands.

Krabi province has many paradise islands that you can visit on a day trip.

One of the most popular is the 4 islands tour. The islands are a true paradise with crystal clear waters and rich marine life, ideal for snorkelling. The islands to visit are Koh Thap, Koh Kai, Koh Poda and Phranang, which is a beach with caves next to Railay. You can book the excursion on this page .

Although I fell in love with the Hong Islands, I was also lucky that when I went there were far fewer people than on the 4 islands. In this archipelago, the main island is beautiful because of its W-shaped beach and hidden bay. Then Koh Lao Ladding is so beautiful that it makes you want to stay there forever. 😍 On this page you can book the tour I did that includes lunch and snorkeling kit.

⭐ Related article: 8 PERFECT Day Trips from Krabi (with transportation alternatives and tours)

Day 11: Boat to Phi Phi

✅ Accommodation in Phi Phi: Phi Phi The Beach Resort in Long Beach or Chunut House which is affordable.

✅ Transportation and places to visit: ⛴ Boat to Phi Phi. Beaches, viewpoint and fire show.

You can go to Phi Phi by ferry or speedboat, which you can book on this page. Depending on where your boat departs from and especially if you travel by ferry, I recommend that you book the combined bus and boat ticket.

Phi Phi Don is a small island and you can reach most places on foot. Then there are other beaches that you will need to go to by boat or kayak. My recommendation is to stay in Long Beach, which is a quiet area, or in Tonsai or Loh Dalum.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the island and visiting its beaches, such as Loh Dalum, Long Beach and other more remote and quieter ones such as Loh Moo Dee Beach. Then, another must-do on Phi Phi is to go up to the viewing point to watch the sunset, the second one in particular has the best views. To end the day, go to dinner in the village and don't miss seeing a fire show.

⭐ Related articles: Where to Stay in Phi Phi (recommended areas and hotels), How to get from Krabi to Phi Phi: all the alternatives, What to do in Phi Phi: complete guide.

Day 12: Phi Phi

✅ Accommodation in Phi Phi: Phi Phi The Beach Resort in Long Beach or Chunut House which is affordable.

✅ Places to visit: Phi Phi Islands Tour

The Phi Phi Islands are an archipelago, Phi Phi Don is the only one with hotels, restaurants and where public transport boats arrive. To visit the other islands you have to take a tour.

Most tours take you to Phi Phi Leh which is where the famous Maya Beach, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave are and also a few stops on Phi Phi Don which can only be reached by boat.

There are several excursions to make this visit. I recommend this sunrise excursion , which is the one I did. The early morning is worth it when you arrive at the places and find them almost empty. Another alternative is this private tour on a long-tail boat to go at your own pace and avoid the crowds. I didn't try this one, but a friend recommended it to me and she was delighted.

Day 13: Ferry to Ao Nang and flight to Bangkok

✅ Accommodation in Bangkok: Amara Bangkok in Silom or Wild Orchid on Khao San road.

✅ Transportation and places to visit: ⛴ Boat to Ao Nang, 🚙 transfer to Krabi airport, ✈ flight to Bangkok. Pending visits or shopping, dinner on a terrace.

To return to Bangkok you will need to take a boat back to Ao Nang and then a flight from Krabi to Bangkok which you can book on this page .

All the transport to get to Bangkok will take you a good part of the day. So, depending on the time you arrive, you can make some visits that you have left pending. Another alternative is to go shopping at the MBK Center or the Siam Paragon, which are some of the best shopping centers.

To end the day, you can go to a terrace to watch the sunset and have dinner. I can recommend two cheap terraces in Bangkok, both included in the guide below.

One is the Supanniga Eating Room Tha Tien with very good Michelin-rated food and beautiful sunsets overlooking Wat Arun. Otherwise, another excellent option is this buffet dinner at Baiyoke on the 84th floor, where you will have spectacular views of the city (pictured above) at a very good price.

⭐ Related article: 8 Affordable Rooftop Bars & Restaurants in Bangkok

Day 14: Bangkok

✅ Accommodation in Bangkok: Amara Bangkok in Silom or Wild Orchid on Khao San road.

✅ Places to visit: Excursion to Ayutthaya.

Spend the day visiting Ayutthaya, Thailand's former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic city is filled with impressive temples and ruins.

Must-see spots include Wat Mahathat, known for its famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the city's largest and most symbolic temple, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a riverside complex ideal for sunset photos.

To visit Ayutthaya you can arrive by train or bus and then rent a bicycle, motorbike or hire a tuk-tuk to move around the area. Although the most practical alternative is this guided tour so you don't miss a single detail of its interesting history.

⭐ Related article: Ayutthaya Visiting Guide.

Day 15: Bangkok

✅ Places to Visit & Transportation: Shopping. ✈ Flight home.

On the last day, depending on your flight time, you can visit Chatuchak Market (weekend only). This is one of the largest markets in the world, with over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and handicrafts to spices and unique souvenirs. This is the perfect place to find last-minute gifts and enjoy an authentic Thai atmosphere.

👍 Advice from a friend: Bring cash and don't forget to haggle to get good prices.

Itinerary Summary

• Day 1 Bangkok: Explore your hotel’s neighborhood and catch the sunset from Mahanakhon Skywalk.
• Day 2 Bangkok: Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun, and a Chao Phraya River cruise.
• Day 3 Bangkok: Maeklong Railway Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Muay Thai Fight, or Wat Saket
• Day 4 Bangkok: Giant Buddha and Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen or Jim Thompson House, Thai massage, Flower Market, and Chinatown. 🚅 Night train to Chiang Mai
• Day 5 Chiang Mai: Old Town, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Night Market.
• Day 6 Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat and Wat Doi Suthep, Chinatown and Warorot Market, Khan Toke show.
• Day 7 Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai excursion.
• Day 8 Krabi: ✈ Flight to Krabi and 🚙 transfer to Ao Nang. Explore the village and beach.
• Day 9 Krabi: Railay Beach & Tiger Cave Temple.
• Day 10 Krabi: Excursion to the 4 islands or the Hong Islands.
• Day 11 Phi Phi: ⛴ Boat to Phi Phi. Beaches, viewpoint and fire show.
• Day 12 Phi Phi: Excursion to the Phi Phi Islands
• Day 13 Bangkok: ⛴ Boat to Ao Nang, 🚙 transfer to Krabi airport, ✈ flight to Bangkok. Pending visits or shopping, dinner on a terrace.
• Day 14 Bangkok: Excursion to Ayutthaya.
• Day 15 Bangkok: Shopping at Chatuchak Market. ✈ Flight home.

✅ Friend's Tip: Don’t forget to get travel insurance for your next adventure. I recommend Heymondo,—it’s super comprehensive, and with that link, you’ll get 5% off!

Thailand Road Map

Final Thoughts

I hope this itinerary will help you organize your first trip to Thailand, a wonderful country that will stimulate all your senses. I'm sure you'll enjoy it very much!

In this guide to Thailand you can keep reading the main articles I’ve written about this beautiful country.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

More about Thailand and Southeast Asia

• Best Time to Travel to Thailand
• 23 Tips for traveling to Thailand
• 11 Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Thailand
• Getting Around Thailand (all transports)
• What to buy in Thailand: 20 typical products and souvenirs
• 51 Curiosities about Thailand that will amaze you
• Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand: ethical or just a business?