One of Asia’s most advanced tourism markets is found in Thailand. The “Land of Smiles” is renowned for its friendliness, stunning beaches, historical sites, and eco-attractions, as well as for its renowned food, first-rate infrastructure, and reasonably priced lodging.
Thailand is currently one of the most well liked travel destinations worldwide. This could be for the serene beaches, the delicious food, stunning scenery, glorious temples, and so much more!
There is so much to experience in Thailand and two weeks is truly not enough. This 2-week itinerary will provide you with some of Thailand’s most highlighted places!
Travel Day – Arrive in Bangkok & Board your Domestic flight
After what was more than likely a long day of travel from your home to Thailand, you will probably have arrived in Bangkok International Airport. We think that it is best to enjoy Bangkok at the end of your trip to allow for easy shopping before heading home. So, though exhausted from a long flight, get excited and head to domestic departures and board a flight to the big island of Koh Samui in the gulf of Thailand. (If you have priority pass, the lounge in the domestic departures was one of our favorite lounges for the delicious food)
Once you have arrived in Koh Samui, make your way to your accommodation to check in. One of our favorite ways to explore Thailand is by renting a motorbike and just riding around, stopping to enjoy views, and exploring hidden gems. So before going to enjoy your first dinner and sunset of the trip, we suggest that you rent a motorbike as this is our preferred method of transportation and one of the best (and cheapest) ways to get around.
(Travel tip – Selecting your motorbike rental establishment: we have found that not everyone is honest and that some motorbike rental establishments take advantage of tourists. The best way to find these places is to look at the reviews on google maps for those nearby. Additionally, the most reputable places have bikes that look used, will encourage you to take photos/videos of the bike before you rent it, and will allow you to leave a cash deposit – usually between $100-200 USD. We prefer this option as having your passport held hostage unless you pay for damages you didn’t cause.)
Now it is officially time to start your Thai vacation.
Mango Tree Sunset Bar & Cafe
Make your way to this cute beach side cafe to be sure to grab a nice spot before sunset. This is a nice location to enjoy your dinner as the sunsets. (Don’t forget to set your phone camera to timelapse to catch the first amazing sunset of your trip).
Chaweng
Not yet ready to head back to your accommodation and sleep? Head over the the Chaweng area. This area is notorious to have several restaurants, bars and beach clubs. Enjoy a cocktail or some delicious sticky mango rice to end your first evening in Thailand.
Day 1: Koh Samui
After getting a full night’s sleep, it is time to start exploring Koh Samui and enjoy everything that the island has to offer. Today has several stops, viewpoints, jungles, and beaches. So strap on that helmet and enjoy the ride!
To be Sweet
Start your morning off with a delicious breakfast. There are several great options, we found this one to be conveniently located, though there are several others to suit your taste.
Hin Ta Hin Yai
Also known as the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks for their resemblance to male and female genitalia, these rock forms are a quick photo opportunity with a beautiful backdrop.
Overlap Stone
With a self explanatory name, this is a beautiful spot to stop, take in the view and snap a few photos.
Phachuanchom Lamai
Another beautiful viewpoint with a nearby cafe. Have a cold coconut water and enjoy the views.
Crystal Bay
Smooth white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, and unique rockforms create this classic tropical beach. After a morning filled with riding around, enjoy cooling off with a quick swim. Dry off on the beautiful beach before continuing onward.
Jungle Club
With a 360 degree viewing experience, the beautiful Jungle Club viewpoint is a great place to enjoy the sunset. Though a bit pricey for Thailand, this is also a nice place to have a drink and a bite to eat. There is also the option for ziplining from the jungle club so if you’re up for adventure and get here early, definitely take advantage of the adrenaline rush with great views!
Day 2: Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
Jungle Club
Yes, that’s right, you’re heading back to witness the first sunrise of your trip from the beautiful Jungle Club viewpoint. This is an early morning, so make sure that you are here before sunrise. Have a light breakfast here or in town before returning the motorbike on your way to Lamprayah Pier for the ferry to Koh Phangan.
Lampraya Ferry
It is often recommended to book in advance (the day before is generally enough) and to arrive early before the scheduled departure.
Once you get off the ferry in Koh Phanghan, be sure to rent your motorbike for the next 2 days before making your way to your accommodation. This will make it easier to get around the island and to explore. There are several incredible options for accommodations in Koh
Phanghan for under $100 USD per night, ranging from simple economic rooms to 5 star resorts (prices may vary by season, but we have found some incredible steals).
Take your pick and spend a few hours enjoying the R&R that you have waited for.
After spending a few hours enjoying the hotel and the pool, and perhaps even getting a Thai massage, hop on the motorbike and make your way to one of our favorite viewpoints of all time.
“Hide on High”
A small entrance fee is charged per person but comes with your choice of a soft drink, water, or coconut and we felt it was well worth it for the view.
Mae Haad Beach & Koh Ma
Mae Haad Beach in the northwest part of the island. From here you can walk along a long thin strand a white sand bar to Koh Ma, a small island just off the coast of Koh Phangan (note: this is only possible during low tide).
After you have enjoyed the stroll, the views, and squishing your toes into the sand, it’s time to hop back on the bike and explore this area of the northern part of the island. We recommend just riding along, stopping where you please for photo-ops and eating at whatever place draws you in.
Day 3: Koh Phangan
Today you can start as early as you like, but we recommend being after breakfast no later than 10:30.
Haad Yuan Hike
Dress light, be sure to bring cold water and a picnic lunch, and apply some good bug spray. This hike is not as simple as it seems. You will find the trailhead in Haad Rin and after about 20 minutes of climbing a relatively clear trail, you make it to the middle of a jungly area with “trails” going in different directions. Here, as some locals told us, is where you follow the bows. Yes, bows – the type a young girl would wear in her hair. They are different colored, not very bright and definitely do not stand out, but they are tied to tree branches periodically which helps you understand where you are going. Once you have reached the bridge, know that you have climbed in the right direction, and continue onward. You will be rewarded by an incredible view! So long as you have a phone and a decent sense of direction you will be able to make your way, not to worry!
Now that you are drenched from the climb up and have enjoyed the amazing view and snapped a few photos, you can continue on the path heading down to the “secret” beach below – a beach that can be reached by foot or by boat. Once you have gone down, and cooled off in the water, you can either head back by foot or catch a longtail back to Haad Rin beach (keep in mind that if you catch a long tail, you will also need to walk or catch a ride back to your motorbike – if you have two bikes, we suggest leaving one at Haad Rin beach and the other at the trailhead.)
Haad Rin Beach
Home to the world famous Full Moon Party, Haad Rin Beach is on the southern edge of Koh Phangan and is often quiet during any time of the month not close to the Full Moon Party. If you enjoy the party scene, try to time your vacation and time in Koh Phangan appropriately, if not, enjoy a quick walk along the beach and continue exploring this beautiful island.
Thong Sala Food Market
After hiking and exploring you have surely worked up an appetite, this open air food market has several options ranging from Thai food classics to American dishes, vegan options and lots of in between.
As you drive north, be sure to stop at various viewpoints and experience the breathtaking views as the jungle meets the sea.
Amsterdam Bar
Now that your tummies are content, you can head over to the Amsterdam Bar to enjoy a cocktail and relax as the sunsets.
Day 4: Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Just when you think it can’t get any better, guess again. Today you will be heading to our favorite island in Thailand (and questionably our favorite place in the world), Koh Tao.
Get an early-ish start to your day, grab a quick bite to eat, return your motorbike and make your way to the pier. You will want to catch the first ferry of the day to Koh Tao.
Known to be a scuba diving hub, Koh Tao is the smallest of the three islands you are visiting, but don’t let that fool you. Filled with delicious (and wallet friendly) restaurants, smiling people, beautiful viewpoints, and amazing activities, this island is truly magical. If you’re hungry, Da’s Sandwiches by the pier is absolutely delicious.
There are a handful of reputable establishments that rent motorbikes in Koh Tao, but they tend to run out so now that you have a sandwich in hand, we recommend that your first activity be to secure your motorbike for the next three days.
Head to your accommodation, leave your bags and begin exploring some of the viewpoints of this beautiful island.
Summit Viewpoint
An adventure in itself to get here, you will be taken off road onto a gravel/sandy path. Needless to say, if you don’t feel comfortable on your motorbike, it is best to hop on with someone who does or enjoy a somewhat lengthy hike to this summit.
Regardless of the way you get here, the view is breathtaking, the family run establishment is incredibly welcoming (we were even welcomed by an adorable puppy)! Enjoy the cold coconut that is provided to you with your entrance fee, snap some photos with the view, and have conversations with those around you. (There weren’t too many people there when we were visiting, but we struck up a conversation with an amazing couple that we ended up doing some activities with over the next few days, exchanged experiences and recommendations with for different locations in Thailand, and have actually developed a friendship and stayed in touch since)
Grape Viewpoint
Another viewpoint relatively nearby the Summit. Again, enjoy the adventure of getting here.
Family Kitchen, Sairee Beach
As based on the name, this is a family run establishment with options for everyone. We enjoyed the absolutely delicious food, the friendly service, the reasonable prices and the view of beautiful Sairee beach make this the perfect place to eat dinner while enjoying the sunset.
Thai Massage
With several highly rated establishments in town, take your pick. This will undoubtedly help you wind down and get to sleep early
Day 5: Koh Tao
Love Koh Tao
Another early morning to watch the sunrise. We promise, it is absolutely worth it. Love Koh Tao is a magical gem on this island. Enjoy a morning coffee (we took ours iced with coconut milk, yum!) while you sit on the nets overlooking the lush greenery and watch the sun rise over the sea. Some sticky mango rice or any of their other delectable options will give you some energy before heading down to the beach below for your next activities!
Tanote Bay
This little bay is a wonder to snorkelers. With tons of fish and coral reefs, your eyes will feast on the magnificent wildlife. We enjoyed snorkeling out to the giant rock, and leaving our snorkels and goggles on one of the lower ones, we climbed up the giant rock and jumped off into the deep blue water. We were hesitant at first, but after witnessing so many people jump before us, we felt safe. Obviously this is not for the faint of heart, see what others do and jump at your own risk.
John Suwan Viewpoint & Freedom Beach
Climb to the island’s highest peak, enjoy the views, and then head down to Freedom Beach below to enjoy more time swimming, snorkeling, and lounging around the beach.
Chuchu Thai Food & Pizza
Depending on where your accommodation is, this may be rather out of the way. But given that Koh Tao is so small, we say it’s worth the drive. Pizza on vacation in Thailand? Well yes.
Chuchu’s puts a thai twist on this classic, making curry flavored pizzas that are delicious. They of course have traditional Thai offerings as well.
This is the point of the day where we suggest you head back to your accommodation for some R&R, a quick dip in the pool, or a cool shower to cool off before heading back out for the sunse
Sunset Viewpoint
Head over to the sunset viewpoint before sunset to ensure a prime spot on this observation deck.
Enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of the sunset.
Dinner
There are just so many fabulous places to choose from. Look at google maps and go with whichever of the many top rated restaurants suits your desire for the evening.
Day 6: Koh Tao
Koh Nang Yuan
Just off of the coast of Koh Tao is a group of three small islands that are attached with a sandbar. Privately owned and home to a resort, Koh Nang Yuan welcomes visitors (for a fee) during daytime hours. To get the most out of your entrance fee, we suggest making your way over in the morning. We would suggest coming equipped with plenty of water, your towel, sunblock and sunglasses, some snorkeling equipment (and aqua shoes if you have them).
Walking along the north part of Sairee Beach you can negotiate the long tail charter fee. Feel comfortable asking a handful of longtail captains what their fee is for your group for a round trip to Koh Nang Yuan (generally this is a better idea than going one way as you could end up stranded and paying a premium rate to get back). A short 15 minute long tail ride will bring you to the entrance and you will agree upon a pick up time with your longtail captain (we would suggest three to four hours to allow some time to hike up to the viewpoint, relax and sunbathe and snorkel of course.
The hike up is easy as an avid crossfitter, and absolutely doable for anyone in good health regardless of fitness level – breaks can be taken on the way up, but the view is absolutely worth it.
Scuba Dive
If you are a scuba diver and want to enjoy the underwater adventures of one of the diving hotspots in the world, this would be the day that we recommend doing so. Sign up for a scuba day with a morning and afternoon dive for a full day activity instead of Koh Nang Yuan or just for a morning dive and proceed to the unique day trip.
Barracuda Roof Top Restaurant & Bar
Sunset, Cocktails, & Delicious food
We recommend that you end your day with a Thai massage, because, well, why not?
Day 7: Koh Tao to Railay Beach
The Factory Cafe
After waking up and packing up your belongings head over to this delicious cafe to grab breakfast before returning your motorbike and heading to the pier. The food and coffee are amazing!
Railay
You will arrive to Railay East pier via taxi long tail from Krabi. This short ride will take you to a small peninsula known as Railay/ Railay beach. This is known to be both a great spot for rock climbing, but is well known to have some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.
After you have arrived, find your way by foot to your accommodation. Most of them are found near the pier on the east side of the peninsula. Once you have checked in and dropped off your bags, head along the path to west Railay beach and find a spot on the sand to watch the sunset. If you are feeling more adventurous or wanting to be more active, do some yoga along the beach or rent a kayak or SUP.
Railay Beach
Be sure to make it to Railay beach before sunset. Witness the sun as it sets. But here, it is important to be patient
Just when you think that the sun has set and that it was nice but not all that it’s talked up to be, think again. It just keeps getting better and better:
No filter. Hands down, one of the most beautiful sunsets we have witnessed.
Day 8: Railay Beach to Chiang Mai
Climbing
Railay Beach is a climber’s paradise. If you’re an avid climber, then rent some gear and enjoy a morning of climbing the limestone peaks with some of the most beautiful paradise views that you could ask for.
If this sounds less appealing to you, not to worry, the following activities are well worthy.
Emerald Lagoon
After enjoying breakfast at your resort, make your way to the start of the Emerald Lagoon hike. A short climb will bring you up to a lovely viewpoint that overlooks part of the peninsula. For the sure-footed and somewhat experienced climbers, continue down to the Emerald Lagoon before making your way back the way you came.
Phra Nang Cave Beach & Toblerone Bay
After your hike, cool off on the small strip of a sandy beach, take a kayak or a SUP to explore Toblerone bay and the crystal blue waters below.
Krabi Airport → Chiang Mai
After spending the morning enjoying Railay beach, make your way to the Krabi airport for you flight to Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai
Known as Thailand’s northern capital, there is plenty of adventure for every traveler, including an amazing old town, delicious cooking classes, day trips to elephant sanctuaries or zip lining, and plenty of local night markets. Wander around the old town and spend your evening at the Chiang Mai night bazaar, Chang Klan Road, and Anusan market. Explore the stalls of food, clothes, handicraft products, watches, and souvenirs.
Day 9 Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary
We recommend going on a Day tour to one of the official Elephant Nature Park sanctuaries to experience a unique day filled with meeting rescued elephants of various ages, sizes, and types, feeding them, bathing and playing with them (https://www.elephantnaturepark.org/enp/visit-volunteer).
This full day experience departs Chiang Mai around 8:00 in the morning and returns around 17:00, leaving you time to grab a bite to eat and head out towards Pai. We recommend using a shuttle service (another option is to rent a motorbike.
Day 10: Peaceful Pai
We recommend starting your evening off in Pai by renting a scooter, here we would suggest a more powerful one (at least 150cc), especially if you are two on a bike. (Just as we discussed before when renting a scooter, be sure to look at reviews on google maps and only rent from a reputable establishment, and preferably one that allows a cash deposit as opposed to leaving your passport). After renting your scooter (and helmets!), make your way over to Pai’s walking street. It is so colorful with an abundance of street food options and is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of dishes for your dinner before making your way to your accommodation and get to sleep as early as possible.
Doi Miang Wildlife Park
We recommend starting off with an early morning to the Doi Miang wildlife park to enjoy as the sun rises over Pai. This is just over an hour drive from the city center, so make sure you plan accordingly and bring some snacks, coffee, and water (perhaps consider an evening stop at a 7-11 to stock up).
If you’re feeling too exhausted to wake up early, don’t worry, this can be easily moved to tomorrow morning.
Kho Kuu So
After witnessing a beautiful sunrise, make your way over to Kho Kuu So, the bamboo bridge. A bamboo bridge that lays atop a luscious green rice field. It is just a beautiful site and so peaceful and quiet. (Be warned that if you arrive in the dry season, you will see more brown plants than the lush green.)
Tha Pai Memorial Bridge
After spending some time exploring, hop back on your scooter and head toward the Tha Pai Memorial Bridge. This steel bridge was created during the World War II era when the Japanese army wanted quick access from the Chiang Mai region to British controlled Burma (today the country of Myanmar).
Pai Hotsprings Spa Resort
After you grab a bite to eat, it’s time to head to the Pai Hotsprings Spa Resort. For a small fee (approximately 100 baht per person), you can gain access to the hot springs and beautiful pool. Depending on the outside temperature you may opt to skip the hot springs or only take a quick dip for the experience, but the beautiful pool is lovely to cool off and spend a bit of time relaxing.
Pai Canyon
Once you’ve cooled off a bit and your batteries are recharged, it is time to head to your sunset viewing point at Pai Canyon. This is one of the more popular sunset points, but you’ll soon see why. The canyon is absolutely beautiful with red rocks and aligned with green trees throughout.
Day 11: Transitions of the North
Spend the morning exploring the town of Pai and enjoying a peaceful breakfast before making your way back to Chiang Mai via shuttle service.
Doi Inthanon National Park
If you arrive back to Chiang Mai early enough, take the opportunity to visit the Doi Inthanon National Park.
Otherwise, wander around the inner walls of the old city, exploring the various temples and taking in the culture.
Loi Krathong Festival
If you are lucky enough to visit during the Loi Krathong Festival, this unique evening experience allows you to witness true beauty with lanterns being released both into the moat surrounding the Chiang Mai old city and lighting up the sky above.
If you are visiting through the rest of the year, enjoy another evening at a night bazaar, have a massage, and enjoy traditional Chiang Mai dishes.
Day 12: Cooking in Chiang Mai, Nightcap in Chiang Rai
We recommend signing up for a traditional Thai cooking class today. Generally the cooking school will pick you up at your accommodation or an assigned location nearby. You will then go with the school to the local market to experience how the locals purchase the ingredients for their food, and to taste some as well.
After experiencing the market, which is likely different from those you have experienced thus far, you will be brought back to the schoolhouse where cooking stands will be ready for each student.
Be prepared for a few hours of cooking followed by a wonderful reward to feast on all of the delicious foods you have prepared.
In the early afternoon, your cooking class will be complete and your belly will be uncomfortably, but satisfyingly full.
This is the perfect time to head to you shuttle service transfer to Chiang Rai.
We recommend starting your evening off in Chiang Rai by renting a scooter. Again, here we would suggest a more powerful one (at least 150cc), especially if you are two on a bike. And like always, be cautious of the establishment from which you rent.
Enjoy a light dinner and get to bed as early as possible.
Day 13: Chiang Rai
Pu Chi Fa Viewpoint
This will be an especially early morning, make your way Make your way to Pu Chi Fa Viewpoint to watch the sunrise (it will take you about 2.5 hours to get there from the city center).
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
With one of the most aesthetically pleasing cafes that overlooks the beautiful lush tea plantation, the teas and desserts are incredible. Enjoy them from the cafe, go for a tour, and return to the cafe for more before hitting the road.
The White Temple
The Blue Temple
Chiang Rai to Bangkok
Board your last domestic flight of the trip for the most convenient and expeditious way of traveling to Bangkok. Once you have landed, make your way to your Bangkok accommodation (we recommend using the grab application or public transit as the taxi services at the airport are unreasonable) and head out for the evening – wander around the local night markets and be sure to enjoy a bite to eat. The city is huge, so we recommend using google maps to find a recommended restaurant in your vicinity. As you wander around, take in the different culture and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.
Day 14: Bangkok Temples & Markets
Spend the morning exploring three of Thailand’s most stunning temples. Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Wat Phra Kaew, are only a ferry ride apart from one another. Keep in mind that as these are places of worship it is important to dress appropriately. For both men and women, it is required to be wearing modest attire (no shorts or short skirts, be sure to cover your knees; no crop tops, be sure to cover your stomach; no tank tops, be sure to cover your shoulders).
Wat Arun
The temple, known as Wat Arun, rises from the banks of the Chao Phraya River like a missile. In honor of Arun, the Indian dawn goddess, it is sometimes referred to as the Temple of Dawn.
Following the destruction of Ayuthaya, King Taksin was able to find a modest local shrine in this temple. He interpreted this as a favorable sign that this would be the site of the new capital city of Siam (Thailand).
Wat Pho
The largest and longest temple complex in Bangkok is Wat Pho, which has more Buddha statues than any other temple in Thailand.
Upon instructions from King Rama I, the majority of the Buddha statues were removed from deserted temples in locations like Asyutthaya or Sukhothai.
Wat Phra Kaew
The Wat Phra Kaew complex of temples is not only exquisitely crafted and breathtakingly gorgeous, but it also serves as the spiritual hub for Thai Buddhism and the monarchy, which is symbolically tied to the nation’s most renowned image, the Emerald Buddha.
The Grand Palace, the former royal family’s palace, is located in the temple complex. The city was previously sealed with intricate ceremonies and social stratification.
Chak Tu Chak Weekend Market
After the better part of your day filled with exploring these magnificent temples, we recommend you making your way to the Chak Tu Chak Weekend Market (note this market is open Friday-Sunday, so if you are here during the week, explore any of the wide selection of open air markets). This is a cool place to walk around and enjoy some local snacks.
Skybar
Enjoy your last meal of the trip and goodbye cocktail at one of the various sky bars throughout the city.
We hope that your time in Thailand was terrific. Either make your way to the airport or spend one last night sleep in the bustling city of Bangkok before flying home tomorrow.