From golden temples and bustling night markets to turquoise waters and lush mountain jungles, Thailand truly has it all. If you’re planning your first trip to Thailand, you’re in for something special. This two-week Thailand itinerary is perfect for first-time travelers who want to experience the country’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and unforgettable food. You’ll start and end your journey in Bangkok, with stops in Phuket, Phi Phi, and Chiang Mai. With the perfect blend of city life, island adventures, cultural experiences, and nightlife, this Thailand travel guide has everything you need to plan a trip you’ll never forget.
Table of Contents
Essential Thailand Travel Tips
Every country is different, so it can be a bit intimidating. To make your Thailand travel as smooth as possible, make sure you follow these critical tips!
Currency & Cash 💵
The local currency of Thailand is Thai Baht (THB). While you can expect to use cards in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, many small vendors only accept cash. For this reason, you’ll always want to have some cash on hand. To get some cash, you can exchange currency at a hotel, bank, or currency exchange house. You can also use a debit card to withdraw money in THB at ATMs or banks. Before doing so though, make sure that you understand your card’s policy, as some apply fees for international withdrawals. ATMs are widely available in cities, but may be harder to find on smaller islands or in rural areas.
Getting Around 🚗
One of the best ways to get around in Thailand is using the Bolt app, a ride-hailing platform which can connect you to fast and affordable rides. It is similar to Uber, but cheaper than its counterpart Grab. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also commonly used, but they often charge higher rates for tourists. If you choose to use these, negotiate your rate before heading out or insist that the driver use the meter.
Weather & Clothing ☀️
Thailand’s climate is hot and humid, so you’ll want to prioritize breathable, lightweight clothing. While it’s no different than most western attire for everyday wear, you’ll need to be mindful for religious sites such as temples. Bringing along a light scarf or cover-up can make it easy to transition to temple-friendly attire, which requires shoulders and knees to be covered. Slip-on sandals or flats make it easier to remove shoes, which most temples require in certain areas.
Hot Tip: Pack a rain jacket or compact umbrella if you’re traveling during the rainy season (May–October).
Language 🗣️
While the official language is Thai, many people speak English especially in tourist zones. However, learning a few basic Thai phrases is always a good idea! Locals really appreciate the effort, and it can lead to more genuine, personal moments throughout your trip. Be sure to download a translation app on your phone so you have those phrases on hand. Google Translate even gives you the ability to download languages for offline use!
Bangkok: Days 1-2 (+ Return Days 12-14)
Start off your trip in the capital city of Bangkok! Known for its stunning mix of cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok is the best place to start any trip to Thailand. You’ll begin and end your Thailand itinerary in this magical city.
Day 1 – Arrival & Relaxation
Welcome to Thailand! On your first day, the most important thing is to get some well-deserved rest and start acclimating your body to the time zone. Check into your hotel and treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment at Divana Scentuara Spa! If you have energy in the evening, catch an amazing sunset at King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk, which is the highest observation deck in Thailand with 360 degree views of the city. Finally, grab some dinner downtown and check out Tichuca Rooftop Bar, known for its jungle-themed decor and stunning skyline views. Enjoy one of their signature cocktails and make sure to grab a photo with the iconic “Avatar tree” behind you.
Day 2 – Markets, Culture & Nightlife
Bangkok is known for its shopping, so no trip would be complete without a bit of retail therapy! Start your day at the ICONSIAM Mall, located along the Chao Phraya River in downtown. This mall is full of high-end stores, spots to eat, and its own indoor floating market! To get the best view of the river, visit the Napalai Sky Terrace on the seventh floor, near the Apple Store. It has incredible views!
From there, continue with a ferry from ICONSIAM to Chinatown. The ferry stop is right outside the mall, so you can’t miss it! Spend the afternoon exploring Chinatown with a food tour, where you’ll get a taste of all the classic flavors, including Pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice, and more! Finish off your second day, by getting a glimpse of Bangkok’s famous nightlife. Check out Baccarat nightclub, or do some bar-hopping on Khao San Road.
Phuket: Days 3 – 7
To the northwest of Bangkok, you’ll find the dreamy island of Phuket. Phuket City, located on this island, is a beach-lover’s paradise. From the clear waters and white sands on the Phi Phi Islands to the swinging shows in Phuket city, there is plenty to do in Phuket.
Day 3 – Travel & Explore
Plan a flight from Bangkok to Phuket in the afternoon, so you can enjoy a slow morning. Once you’ve arrived, check into your hotel and head out to visit Old Phuket Town, renowned for the unique architectural mix of Asian and Portuguese styles. The Sino-Portuguese townhouses along Soi Rommanee are particularly well-known. Spend the afternoon exploring this neighborhood, picking up souvenirs and snacks as you go.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Phi Phi Islands
Sitting off the coast of Phuket to the southeast, the Phi Phi Islands are a must-see when you’re in Phuket! Several of the top sights in the Phi Phi Islands include Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and the Viking Cave. The easiest way to see all the sights without an overnight stay is to take this speedboat day trip, so you can travel from Phuket and see all the island highlights.
First off, Maya Bay is a gorgeous beach on Ko Phi Phi Lee, with jewel-toned waters, white sand, and picturesque limestone cliffs. Monkey Beach is also an iconic stop on Ko Phi Phi Don, where monkeys roam freely on the beach. Guard your snacks – these monkeys are clever and bold! You’ll also want to check out Viking Cave on Koh Phi Phi Leh. Viking Cave got its name from the wall paintings that decorate its limestone surface. Though visitors cannot go inside the cave, you can see the intricate system that locals have for harvesting bird eggs for a traditional soup. For active travelers, you may also want to add some snorkeling to your day, as the clear waters make it fun and easy to explore marine life all around the Phi Phi Islands!
If you want to ride in a traditional Thai Longtail Boat as well, you can add that as a trip extension for thirty minutes. These Longtail Boats are iconic in Thailand, so if you have the flexibility, I recommend taking a spin in one! It’s THE perfect photo op for those Instagram-worthy selfies!
Day 5 – Ethical Elephant Sanctuary & Entertainment
Kick off your fifth day with a visit to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, the first ethical sanctuary in Phuket for elephant rescues. During your visit, you will not touch the animals, in keeping with their ethical practices, but you will help prepare their morning meal and watch them as they eat. It’s a very special experience!
With the rest of the day, see one of the famous shows at Simon Cabaret. The extravagant costumes and dancing during the 1.5-hour show will have you mesmerized. Finally, finish off with some nightlife at Sugar Club on Bangla Road, known for its hip hop scene, often featuring international artists. You never know who you might see!
Day 6 – Floating Beach Club Day
After nearly a week of exploring Thailand, you’ll want a day of rest and relaxation! For a relaxing day that still keeps the vibes high, check out Yona Beach Club. Yona Beach Club is the world’s first floating beach club in Phuket, featuring four bars, an infinity pool, and a restaurant. Whether you want to lie in the sun on the daybeds, take a dip in the pool, or see the amazing scenery, you’ll enjoy yourself at Yona Beach Club! From DJs spinning sets, to fire dancers, and dancing alongside the pool – you’ll be entertained the whole day. Don’t skip out on the truffle fries!
Day 7 – Chill & Beach Vibes
During your last day in Phuket, explore the northern district of the island, Thalang. Thalang is the perfect place for a chill day, appreciating all of the natural scenery. For the most pristine scenery, I suggest Bang Tao Beach, which is absolutely gorgeous and known for its luxury resorts. If you want to get a luxury experience, consider grabbing a day pass at Maya Beach Club! The beach club borrows inspiration from Mayan and Aztec tribes to create a relaxing beachfront experience.
Kicking back not your vibe? Take advantage of the water sports! From parasailing to jet skis, thrill seekers will be right at home with many activities right along the shore.
Chiang Mai: Days 8 – 11
From Phuket, travel to the northwest corner of Thailand to see Chiang Mai! Chiang Mai offers a different perspective, with beautiful mountains and lush forests. Appreciate the culture and unbeatable views of Chiang Mai in the next leg of your trip!
Day 8 – Arrival & Rest
On the eighth day of your Thailand itinerary, catch a flight to Chiang Mai. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day resting. During the evening, treat yourself to a meal at one of Chiang Mai’s most whimsical restaurants. Carp Cafe is a stunning spot, where beautiful koi fish swim around your table as you eat. While you chow down on Japanese and Thai food, you can purchase fish food and feed the fish during your meal. It’s a truly magical experience that feels right out of a Studio Ghibli film.
Day 9 – Cooking, Cafes, & Culture
One of the best souvenirs you can bring home is a new skill! And your Thailand travel wouldn’t be complete without learning how to cook authentic Thai food! Get into the culture through its cuisine with a cooking class at Grandma’s Home Cooking School. This intimate class teaches you to make a variety of classic Thai dishes, picking you up right from your hotel. You’ll start at the market, where you’ll learn about all the different spices and veggies. Then, they’ll bring you to the cooking school’s gardens to see veggies being grown fresh. Next, you’ll head to the kitchen, learning all the different techniques of cooking and enjoying the dishes that you make at a family-style dining table.
After a fun day of cooking (and eating), round out the night with drinks at Mars Cafe, known for the space-themed decor, pastries, and cocktails. From there, check out the Night Bazaar for some late-night shopping – from delicious street food, to handmade jewelery and more. Close out the night watching professional Muay Thai fighters showdown at the Chiang Mai Boxing Club.
Day 10 – Temple Hopping & Jazz
This is an early wake-up day on your Thailand itinerary, but trust me, it’s worth it! You’ll start with a guided sunrise tour up to Doi Suthep, a mountain west of Chiang Mai with some of the most peaceful morning views you’ll find in Northern Thailand. As the sun begins to rise, you’ll witness the city lighting up below while Buddhist monks begin their morning chanting. You’ll even have a chance to take part in a traditional alms-giving ceremony.
After soaking in the sunrise and exploring the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, you’ll continue on to Wat Pha Lat, a hidden jungle temple nestled along a pilgrimage trail. It’s far less crowded than Doi Suthep and feels almost mystical, with waterfalls, moss-covered statues, and meditative stillness everywhere you look.
To round out the temple trio, your final stop is Wat Umong, a 700-year-old forest temple known for its ancient tunnel system and serene setting among the trees. It’s an ideal place to reflect on the morning.
Once you’ve had your fill of temples and tranquility, wrap up the day with some soul-soothing live music at North Gate Jazz Co-Op. Grab a drink, kick back, and vibe out to some of Chiang Mai’s finest jazz as the perfect contrast to your early morning adventure.
Day 11 – Nature Escape
During your final day in Chiang Mai, take a tour of the Bua Thong Waterfalls. Also known as the Sticky Waterfalls, this nature excursion is bound to be a highlight of your Thailand itinerary! This beautiful spot is located inside the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park to the north of the city. The waterfall is renowned for its special shapes, as well as the sticky quality of the rocks that allows visitors to climb up it without slipping down. The “sticky” quality comes from a mineral deposit that is unique to the waterfall. You can either take a guided tour or coordinate your own transportation out to the park. Either way, don’t miss out on this stop!
Return to Bangkok: Days 12 – 14
You’ll end your trip back in Bangkok! As the capital city, Bangkok has the best flight options for most travelers heading out of the country. Returning to Bangkok a few days before your departure allows you to fully enjoy the last few days of your Thailand itinerary, without stressing about travel complications.
Day 12 – Markets & Rooftop Views
Start your morning with a flight from Chiang Mai back to Bangkok. Once you’ve arrived and dropped off any luggage at your hotel, head to the Floating Market, where everything is sold and bought from boats! It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs before your trip home. This is about an hour and a half outside of Bangkok, so I recommend booking this tour with transportation.
After the Floating Market, keep the market vibes going with the Train Market. Also known as the Maeklong Railway Market, this market runs right alongside railroad tracks. Make sure that you’re there when the train passes by, as watching the vendors pull their awnings up and down is the best part! End the day with rooftop views and craft cocktails at Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar for great cocktails and even better views.
Day 13 – Temple Tour & Grand Palace
On your last full day in Thailand, see some of the most iconic sites in Bangkok! Start your day with a visit to the Grand Palace, former royal residence of the Kings of Siam, and now a revered ceremonial site. The Grand Palace sits in the center of Bangkok and really embodies the cultural heritage of the city. You’ll start in the complex at the onsite Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is the most notable temple in Bangkok, where the king’s official ceremonies occur. It’s also just a beautiful place everyone should see in Thailand. Despite its small size, the statue of Buddha is one of Thailand’s most sacred relics – adorned in seasonal gold attire and housed in an intricately decorated shrine. Then, go see the beauty of the Grand Palace building.
In the afternoon, visit Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha, and then take a quick ferry ride across the river to Wat Arun, known for its striking mosaic-covered spires that sparkle at sunset.
Hot Tip: For the Grand Palace, be sure to wear a shirt that covers your shoulders completely, as a tank top with a scarf wrapped over it will not be allowed as it usually is in other temples.
Day 14 – Departure
All good things must come to an end – but the memories last forever. Check out of your hotel, head to the airport, and start planning your next Southeast Asia adventure. ✈️💛
Thailand is one of those places that stays in your heart – from its tropical beaches and buzzing cities to peaceful temples and unforgettable food. If it’s your first trip, this two-week Thailand travel guide is a perfect introduction. And if it’s not? You’ll still fall in love all over again.
