Updated: June 2024
Here is another of my itineraries to inspire you on your first visit to Thailand or to change up your usual locations and visit new places.
This 3 weeks in Thailand Itinerary concentrates on the culture side of Thailand. We will be going from the capital city Bangkok via Ayutthaya to the very north part of the country- to Chiang Mai, the small town of Pai and Chiang Rai. Finishing the holidays with some taste of beautiful Thai islands located in the Gulf of Thailand.
Bangkok: 3 nights
Ayutthaya: 1 night
Chiang Mai: 3 nights
Pai: 2 nights
Chiang Rai: 2 nights
Koh Chang: 3 nights
Koh Kood: 3 nights
Koh Samed: 2 nights
Bangkok DEPARTURE
- I recommend starting your trip in Bangkok while you are fresh. Especially if it is your first time in Thailand. You will get the feel for the country and Thai couture. However, you can also fly directly from BKK to Chiang Mai and leave Bangkok’s sightseeing for the end of your holidays with a day trip to Ayutthaya.
- Traveling in Thailand is so easy and you can change up some locations or swap a couple of islands if you wish.
- If you wish to enjoy full days in all the places maybe add around 2 to 3 days to your holidays for days when you’ll be traveling between the locations. Especially coming from north to Koh Chang, which will take up most of the day.
Bangkok: 3 Nights
Bangkok is an amazing city, Mecca of all travelers and central of South East Asia. Bangkok is an exotic mixture of an ancient world and modern design, it offers so many activities and sights that you will never gonna be bored here.
I’ve been to Bangkok quite a few times and always enjoy coming here for a couple of days for some amazing food, shopping and stunning city views.
Must see and do in Bangkok:
Bangkok Day #1
After a long flight, you will want to relax a bit on your first day and unwind with some lovely sunset river cruise. Or spend an evening sipping on a cocktail from one of the famous Bangkok’s sky bars.
Sunset River Cruise: Have a look at Manohra Luxurious Dinner Cruise in Bangkok, or a cheaper more casual option, Chaophraya Cruise which belongs to one of the best ones in Bangkok.
Baiokye or Lebua Sky Bar for cocktails and amazing views of the city. Don’t forget most of these rooftop bars have a formal dress code. See here for 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Bangkok.
Bangkok Day #2: Temple hopping
- The Grand Palace and Wat Pho. The number one must visit places in Bangkok Thailand. Expect many Asian tourists and be wary of some possible scams. The most common would be tuk-tuk or taxi driver telling you that the temple is closed and wanting to take you somewhere else. Ignore and follow the queue to the entrance where you can purchase entry tickets. Don’t forget the dress code to all the temples and make sure you are dress appropriately.
- Temple Wat Arun. Located along the Chao Phraya river, also known as the ‘Temple of Dawn
In the evening head out to experience the famous Khao San Road. The Khao San Road is the centre of the backpacking community. This 1km long road is full of hostels, shops, bars, restaurants and street vendors.
Bangkok Day #3 Thai Markets
- The Chatuchak Weekend Market is the World’s Biggest Market held on weekends. Chatuchak, or JJ Market, spans over 27 acres of land with 15,000 vendors to choose from.
- You can also visit the famous Chinatown district of Bangkok on Yaowarat Road. One of the best Thai street food areas of Bangkok.
Ayutthaya: 1 Night
Day #4
Ayutthaya is former Thailand’s (Siam’s) capital and in 1700 was the largest city in the world. It’s now a UNESCO world heritage site.
Ayutthaya lies less than 100km north from Bangkok so getting there from the capital is no problem at all.
- Travel by train takes around 2 hours and the train leave from Hualamphong station in Bangkok’s city centre almost every hour.
- The bus takes around 90 minutes, buses leave from Mo Chit station twice hourly.
- You can also take a minivan which is faster than a local bus.
- For more comfort and door to door, service take a private taxi.
To get around the actual sites in Ayutthaya you can hire a tuk-tuk, taxi or a bike. The historic park is on an island between 3 rivers and you will find here many Buddhist temples, monasteries, ruins and statues.
Where to stay in Ayutthaya:
Luxury $
Sala Ayutthaya
Mid-range $
Baan Tye Wang Guesthouse
Phuttal Residence
Baan Thai House
Chiang Mai: 3 Nights
The best way to get from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai is by train. To save money on accommodation and time you can travel overnight. The sleeper train from Ayuthaya departs in the evening time and gets you to Change Mai in the morning.
Chiang Mai is regarding by many as the cultural centre of Northern Thailand and you will see why.
The Old Town is full of beautiful buildings and more than 30 stunning temples. There are many quirky coffee shops with secret gardens where you can sip on organic coffee and tea and soak up the atmosphere.
Chiang Mai is one of the cheaper cities in Thailand and there is many nice boutique hotels and hostels. It is best to stay in the Old Town or near if you want to explore the town and stay close to Night Bazaar.
However the transportation is not too expensive in Chiang Mai, especially if you opt out for local transport so even staying away from the centre could be an option.
Must see and do in Chiang Mai:
Chiang Mai Day #5
- Exploring the Old Town and temple hopping.
These are some of the best temples you shouldn’t miss: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Sri Suphan, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok
Chiang Mai Day #6
- Cooking Classes. Some of the best cooking schools Thailand can be found in Chiang Mai. Try your skills with Thai Farm Cooking School, which is one of the best in Chiang Mai. Guaranteed great experience, fun and long-lasting memories.
- Night Bazaar in the evening. The night bazaar in Chiang Mai is a huge market with an awesome selection of souvenirs and food. There is music, food and hundreds and hundreds of booths set up selling anything you can imagine.
Chiang Mai Day #7
- A day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park
Day trip to Thailand’s highest mountain and its amazing natural landscapes and views.
Be prepared and bring some thicker clothes, the park has high humidity and cold weather all year round. The average daily temperatures are normally around 10-12 °C at the higher elevations.
Where to stay in Chaing Mai:
Luxury $
Rachamankha Hotel a Member of Relais & Châteaux
Chala Number6
Phra Singh Village
Mid-range $
Pastell Oldtown Chiang Mai
Marigold Lanna
i Lanna House
Budget $
Hobnob Hostel
Nuphen Chiangmai
Little Guest House Hotel
Pai: 2 Nights
Located 135km north of Chiang Mai is a small hippie town called Pai.
The easiest way to get here from Chiang Mai is by a bus or minivan. The journey takes around 3-4 hours. Make sure to buy some motion sickness pills as the road is very scenic and beautiful but also famously curvy.
Pai is called the backpacker’s mountain paradise. The town centre itself is nothing special but just at its doorsteps you can discover some beautiful landscape and stunning nature trails. The beauty of Pai lies in its mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, and lush landscapes. The best way to explore Pai’s natural attractions and lush beauty is by renting a scooter.
Must see and do in Pai:
Pai Day #8
- After all the mountain trekking and sightseeing it is a time for relaxing day around Fluid Pool. The Fluid swimming pool has a great atmosphere and music, the entry is 80THB.
- In the evening find time to explore Pai’s Walking Street for some delicious street food & souvenirs.
Pai Day #9
- Waterfalls.
Waterfall Mo Paeng is just 7 km from the main town and a nice place to chill. The drive up is beautiful and there is a great restaurant on the way up with a scenic view. Pom Book Waterfall. - If you are visiting another attraction of Pie -the Land Split and the Bamboo Bridge, it is a nice stop on the way.
- Wat Phra That Mae Yen. The White Buddha On Top Of The Hill. Wat Phrathat Mae Yen is located on the hill, in the east, behind Mae Yen village. The walk from Pai to the temple is about 2km but it is definitely worth it. Standing at the top by the Buddha allows you to see an amazing view of Pai with rice fields and houses.
Where to stay in Pai:
Luxury $
Mid-range $
Pai Cherkaew Boutique House
Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm
Pai Princess Resort
Budget $
Kuad Khon Thoe Pai Cottage
Society House Luxury Hostel
UP2U Guesthouse
Chiang Rai: 2 Nights
There is no direct route between Pai to Chiang Rai so you will be traveling by road via Chang Mai. The journey takes around 6-7h by a bus or minivan and can be organized anywhere in the town.
Chiang Rai is near the borders of Laos and Myanmar and you can definitely experience the culture blending in this region. Chiang Rai is even quieter relaxed then Chiang Mai, you can find here an impressive collection of temples, art, language, cuisine and music.
The mountainous area surrounding the region is stunning and you can find many breathtaking views and viewpoints in this area.
Must see and do in Chaing Rai:
Chiang Rai Day #10
- Temples hopping and sightseeing. The 3 must-see sights to visit in Chiang Rai: White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is the biggest tourist attraction and one of the most known temples in Thailand. Black House (Baan Dam) Museum, and Blue Temple with stunning new-built temple with a beautifully designed interior.
- In the afternoon visit the Chiang Rai “Beach” on the banks of Kok River.
The “beach” is just a series of exposed sandbars and grass area by the riverbank. The scenery is unremarkable, but it’s still a peaceful spot where you can relax for a while and grab a bite to eat.
Chiang Rai Day #11
- Waterfalls which are not to be missed are Huai Kaew Waterfall, Huay Mae Sai Waterfall and Pong Phrabat Waterfall.
- Mountain Hiking: Phu Chi Fa for sunrise and most scenic hikes in Chaing Rai. Also Doi Pha Tang, Doi Mae Salong and Doi Tung.
Where to stay in Chiang Rai:
Luxury $
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
Mora Boutique Hotel
SOOKNIRUND HOTEL
Koh Chang: 3 Nights
Going back south I recommend booking a domestic flight to save time. From Chiang Rai fly to Trat Airport (via Bangkok). Or alternatively, fly to Bangkok and then take the 6h ride by minivan directly to Koh Chang.
The big ferry boats from ‘Ferry Koh Chang’ port, known as Ao Thammachat, takes on the minivans and cars and they will take you directly to your hotel.
Koh Chang has plenty to offer for everyone. From jungle-covered mountain peaks to sweeping bays, great waterfalls to flourishing coral reefs, beach huts to luxury resorts.
Must see and do in Koh Chang
Koh Chang Day #13
- Beach hopping: White Sand Beach, Pearl Beach, Klong Prao and Kai Bae Beach.
- An evening beach party at Lonely Beach, the backpacker’s hotspot.
Koh Chang Day #14 & #15
- Visiting Bang Bao Fishing Village
- Snorkeling or Scuba Diving activities
- Exploring the jungle and Klong Plu Waterfall and Kai Bae Waterfall
- Treetop Adventure Park for some fun activities including zip line, swings and high bridges.
Where to stay in Koh Chang:
Luxury $$$
Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort
The Chill Resort and Spa
The Retreat, Koh Chang
Mid-range $$
Privacy Resort Koh Chang
Serenity Resort Koh Chang
Tropical Paradise Leelawadee Resort
Budget $
Lazy Republique
Bangbaobeach Resort
Pajamas Koh Chang
Koh Kood: 3 Nights
Getting to Koh Kood from Koh Chang is very easy, the boats are running to Koh Kood few times a day.
Koh Kood is a laid-back tropical oasis much quieter the Koh Chang.
Even so, the island got a lot of attention in the last few years it is still one of the less crowded islands. You can easily find some deserted beaches here with beautiful water and amazing sea views.
The best beaches on Koh Kood are located on the island’s west coast. The east coast is a jungle and rocky shores which are hard to access.
Must see and do in Koh Kood
Koh Kood Day #16 – #18
You can spend your day in the beautiful Koh Kooh exploring beaches, snorkeling and taking walks and drives around the island.
- Best Beaches are Ao Tapao Beach, Khlong Chao and south-west beaches are Ao Takian, Ao Phrao, Ao Khlong Hin, and Ao Ja.
- Visit Ao Salat Sea Gypsy Village.
- Waterfalls in Koh Kood: Khlong Chao waterfall, Khlong Yai Kee waterfall and Huang Nam Kaew waterfall.
Where to stay in Koh Kood:
Luxury $
High Season Pool Villa & Spa
Soneva Kiri
Shantaa Resort, Kohkood
Mid-range $
Koh Kood Paradise Beach
Hideout Koh Kood
Suan Nai Kokut Resort
Budget $
Ao Salat View Koh Kood
Ban Choengkao
Koh Kood Little Hut
Koh Samed: 2 Nights
From Koh Kood, you can hop on the boat to Leam Sok pier and take a taxi or minivan, following the coastline (around 3,5h) towards Rayong. Take the boat from Ban Phe Pier to Koh Samed, the boat ride takes around 30 min.
The island is very popular with locals because of its near proximity to Bangkok so expect the island to be busier if you are visiting during the weekend.
Must see and do in Koh Samed
Koh Samed Day #19 and #20
- Water activities: kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving.
- Boat trip: island hopping to near by islands of Kruai, Kham, Plai Tin, which all lie a little to the east of Koh Samed..
- Beaches: Haad Sai Kaew and Ao Phai are the busiest beaches with the most options for eating and drinking. Quieter beaches are scattered around the island. Ao Wai remains mostly undeveloped and has the longest strip of white sand with good swimming.
Where to stay in Koh Samed:
Luxury $
Paradee Resort
Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa
Ao Prao Resort
Mid-range $
Larissa Samed resort
Viking Holiday Resort
Horizon Resort
Budget $
Samed Garden Resort
Labella samet guesthouse
Baan Minnie
Travel Back to Bangkok Day #21
You can easily make your way back to Bangkok from Koh Samed. There are public buses, minivans, or private taxis from Rayong to Bangkok. The journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on Bangkok’s traffic.
- You can decide to unwind in Bangkok on your last night or travel out of Thailand on the same day in case your flight is in the evening time.
Hotels nearby BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport
Luxury $
Ammata Lanta Resort
Le Meridien Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Golf Resort and Spa
Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Mid-range $
At Residence Suvarnabhumi
Vismaya Suvarnabhumi
Anna Home@Lat Krabang
I hope my itinerary will inspire you to start planning your next trip to Thailand and will enjoy exploring and discovering new places as much as I do.
