Itinerary 1: Northern & Central Thailand

Days 1 & 2: Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, nestled in the northern part of the country, is home to many wondrous sites. Venture to the architectural marvel, the white temple of Wat Rong Khun, for awe-inspiring monuments and relics. View vivid blue coloring and decorative carvings at Wat Rong Suea. Wander around eating blue ice cream out of a coconut and soak in the intricate motifs and Buddha statues. End your evening at the night bazaar where vendors sell everything from marble carvings to delicate silks. Feast on hot pots and Pad Thai while enjoying live entertainment on stage!

Observe a tea plantation while strolling through Singha Park, meander down the halls of ‘The Black House Museum’ for dark and unique collections or contemplate the large pagodas at Huay Pla Kang Temple. Just outside of town, trek through the jungle over bamboo bridges to discover the largest waterfall in the area, Khun Korn Waterfall or picnic in the Mae Fah Luang Garden. This picturesque flower park leads you to Doi Tung Royal Villa, the residence of the Princess’s Mother, where you will leave all your stress behind!

Day 3: Doi Inthanon National Park

En route to Chiang Mai, treat yourself to a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park, the most popular national park in Thailand. Drive to the peak of Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in the country, to watch the sunrise over the Himalayan mountain range. Known as ‘The Roof of Thailand,’ this spot will truly take your breath away! After the sun has spread across the land, explore numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, remote villages, and montane farms.

Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail is magical with its dense, lush forest. Spot wild boar, gibbons, and serows in the park or one of the 500 species of birds that inhabit the area. Rent a bike to explore the Brichinda Cave and afterwards, make way to the Two Chedis to relish the sunset while recalling your glorious day spent at the park!

Days 4 & 5: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is unique with its hill tribe villages, botanical gardens, temples, and mountains. This northern Thailand city has a blend of historical culture and modern aesthetics that offers an exploration of centuries-old pagodas right next to beautiful boutique hotels. The Bhubing Palace’s flowered gardens are a maze of beauty and wonder where one can inhale the sweet fragrance of roses. Chiang Mai has an exhilarating night bazaar that one must visit after a day wandering through the city while snacking on mango sticky rice or roti!

Plan a hike with a local guide or take a rafting trip to nearby villages to observe various diverse ethnic tribes. Head to Huay Lake to eat in bamboo huts, visit an elephant sanctuary, or take a Thai cooking class. Wander into the old town where the golden Wat Phra Singh and the intricate Wat Chiang Man temples are located. Just outside of town in Doi Suthep National Park, visit one of the most sacred temples of Thailand, Doi Suthep Temple. A breathtaking view of Chiang Mai awaits at the top of the mountains. Doi Suthep Temple is an important pilgrimage site during Buddhist holidays.

Fly to Bangkok.

Days 6, 7, and 8: Bangkok

After your northern forays, land in the ‘city of angels’ where you will be captivated by vibrant, bustling, turbo-charged Bangkok, a city for everyone. Filled with ornate shrines, active street life, and an eclectic food scene, you will leave a piece of your heart in this famous city. See the boat-filled Chao Phraya River, visit a floating market, shop in Ban Mai, or stand in awe of the exotic temples commemorating Buddhist history.

Once in the Rattanakosin royal district, the lavish Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple await in the heart of the city. This dazzling landmark will leave you speechless with its majestic beauty. Nearby is the largest temple in the world, Wat Pho Temple with an enormous reclining Buddha and Wat Arun Temple with Khmer-style spires and steep steps. Grab a tuk-tuk and head to The Golden Mount for a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Other noteworthy sites are the Suan Pakkad Palace, the National Museum, and Vinmanmek, all considered treasures in their own right. Chinatown is rich in scrumptious food and long-standing traditions. Savor not only the cuisine but the culture as well. Taste the Michelin-star shrimp dumplings, gui chai, or tom yum. Navigating Bangkok is quite easy with an elevated sky-train connecting hotels directly to malls and traditional markets. Bangkok’s shopping has acquired world-class status!

Day 9: Ayutthaya

Discover dozens of temple ruins in Ayutthaya Historical Park, where 33 kings once reigned. A full day here allows you to explore the six main temples. Ayutthaya is located on an island, surrounded by three rivers, and can easily be traversed by bicycle, motorcycle, or a tuk-tuk tour. The most famous temple, Wat Mahathat, has Buddha’s head encircled in the roots of a tree. Walk by the well-preserved tower of Wat Ratchaburana, the beautiful Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Phra Ram, and Wat Maheyong while in the park. End your day adventure at Wat Chai Wattanaram to savor the sunset over the ancient relics.

Day 10: Journey Home

Fly out of Bangkok. Have a safe flight home!

Itinerary 2: Central & Southern Thailand

Days 1, 2, and 3: Bangkok

After your northern forays, land in the ‘city of angels’ where you will be captivated by vibrant, bustling, turbo-charged Bangkok, a city for everyone. Filled with ornate shrines, active street life, and an eclectic food scene, you will leave a piece of your heart in this famous city. See the boat-filled Chao Phraya River, visit a floating market, shop in Ban Mai, or stand in awe of the exotic temples commemorating Buddhist history.

Once in the Rattanakosin royal district, the lavish Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple await in the heart of the city. This dazzling landmark will leave you speechless with its majestic beauty. Nearby is the largest temple in the world, Wat Pho Temple with an enormous reclining Buddha and Wat Arun Temple with Khmer-style spires and steep steps. Grab a tuk-tuk and head to The Golden Mount for a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Other noteworthy sites are the Suan Pakkad Palace, the National Museum, and Vinmanmek, all considered treasures in their own right. Chinatown is rich in scrumptious food and long-standing traditions. Savor not only the cuisine but the culture as well. Taste the Michelin-star shrimp dumplings, gui chai, or tom yum. Navigating Bangkok is quite easy with an elevated sky-train connecting hotels directly to malls and traditional markets. Bangkok’s shopping has acquired world-class status!

Days 4 & 5: Kanchanaburi

Journey by train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, a famous historical site in west Thailand known for the Death Railway, built by thousands of Allied Prisoners of War. On arrival, visit the Allied War Cemetery with nearly 7,000 POW graves, Jeath War Museum to read letters from prisoners of war, the Railway Museum, and the World War II Museum that overlooks the notorious bridge. Retrace the Death Railway route by hopping on the train for a two-hour ride through some of the most picturesque scenery in the country. Walk across the landmark ‘Bridge over the River Kwai,’ which symbolizes the city’s tragic past during World War II.

Apart from its rich history, Kanchanaburi has a large jewelry market and cozy restaurants with authentic Thai food. Have a lazy afternoon beneath a plumeria tree, float on a bamboo raft along River Kwai or lounge with a cold Chang in hand. Tour the ruins of Khmer Temple, admire the massive canopy of an old rain tree that spans over 60 feet, or venture into Wat Tham Mangkonthong’s cave temple, where you will find yourself climbing the stairs to enter the dragon!

Days 6, 7, & 8: Krabi

Fly out of Bangkok into Krabi. Situated on the Andaman Sea, Krabi is famed for its karst formations that border its coast. These limestone beauties, the town’s emblem, contribute to Krabi’s spectacular landscape. Krabi will leave you rejuvenated in all aspects. Home to dense mangrove forests, more than a hundred offshore islands, caves, waterfalls, and exotic wildlife, you will never want to leave! Everyone can find a leisure activity to partake in, be it island hopping, rock climbing, kayaking, snorkeling, jungle trekking, or scuba diving.

Stroll through the gorgeous Thung Teao Forest Natural Park to take a dip in the natural emerald-green pool, unwind in the Klong Thom Hot Springs, or take a Thai cookery lesson with a local. The geological wonder at Susan Hoi will amaze you, along with a hike through Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail, where you can climb to the summit for extraordinary views.

Wash elephants at an elephant sanctuary, admire the white temple of Wat Kaew, or devour the local cuisine at the night market, where your taste buds will sing! Lastly, for a rewarding 360-degree view of the Andaman Sea and the lovely islands that fall within it, climb the 1,237 stairs at Wat Tham Suea, and enjoy the sights.

Days 9 & 10: Phi Phi Islands

Take a speedboat to the Phi Phi islands to uncover some of the loveliest white sandy beaches in Southeast Asia. The islands boast aqua waters, tropical beaches, and idyllic seascapes teeming with colorful marine life – it is a traveler’s paradise. Dive at Shark Point, King Cruiser Wreck, or Anemone Reef to see exotic fish, snorkel off Bamboo Island with superb coral reefs, or kayak in the calm sea along the island’s shorelines.

Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh is postcard perfect! Find your zen on this island while hearing the buzz of disco music off in the distance. Venture through Viking Cave featuring paintings of Drakkar’s or explore Phi Phi Don, built along two bays, where portions are mountainous and covered with jungles. A unique shark watching tour is another interesting option as is taking a cooking class at Pum’s Thai Cooking School, one of the most renowned places to learn how to make Pad Thai!

Days 11 & 12: Phuket

Phuket, the largest island of Thailand, is overflowing with the sea, forest, sand and legendary diving sites. This famous resort island is encircled by white beaches with a lively beachfront center. Shop and experience a lively nightlife after a day out in the sun. For the most beautiful sunset in Thailand, scooter to the cape at Laem Phromthep Viewpoint.

For quieter beaches, rest at Kata or Nai Harn. For adrenaline-pumping adventure, kitesurf, paraglide, rock-climb, four-wheel, zip-line, navigate the high ropes course, bungee jump, or scuba dive. For shopping, Phuket Town has a Chinese-Portuguese style architecture where you will find numerous trendy boutiques. Note the Italian floor tiles in Baan Chinpracha mansion or relish in Phuket’s culture and history at the Thai Hua Museum.

Tour the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery or take a trip to Wat Chalong. Sitting 147-ft. tall, Big Buddha Phuket is an iconic landmark of Phuket. Atop Nakkerd Hills, take in a panoramic view of the island. Toh Sai Hill, or Monkey Hill, is the highest hill in town. With hundreds of macaques living here, there will never be a dull moment! Finally, dine in luxury at the well-known restaurant Mom Tri’s Kitchen for upscale Thai cuisine.

Day 13: Journey Home

Fly out of Phuket airport. Have a safe flight home!

Itinerary 3: Thailand’s Highlights

Days 1 & 2: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is unique with its hill tribe villages, botanical gardens, temples, and mountains. This northern Thailand city has a blend of historical culture and modern aesthetics that offers an exploration of centuries-old pagodas right next to beautiful boutique hotels. The Bhubing Palace’s flowered gardens are a maze of beauty and wonder where one can inhale the sweet fragrance of roses. Chiang Mai has an exhilarating night bazaar that one must visit after a day wandering through the city while snacking on mango sticky rice or roti!

Plan a hike with a local guide or take a rafting trip to nearby villages to observe various diverse ethnic tribes. Head to Huay Lake to eat in bamboo huts, visit an elephant sanctuary, or take a Thai cooking class. Wander into the old town where the golden Wat Phra Singh and the intricate Wat Chiang Man temples are located. Just outside of town in Doi Suthep National Park, visit one of the most sacred temples of Thailand, Doi Suthep Temple. A breathtaking view of Chiang Mai awaits at the top of the mountains. Doi Suthep Temple is an important pilgrimage site during Buddhist holidays.

Fly to Bangkok.

Days 3, 4, and 5: Bangkok

After your northern forays, land in the ‘city of angels’ where you will be captivated by vibrant, bustling, turbo-charged Bangkok, a city for everyone. Filled with ornate shrines, active street life, and an eclectic food scene, you will leave a piece of your heart in this famous city. See the boat-filled Chao Phraya River, visit a floating market, shop in Ban Mai, or stand in awe of the exotic temples commemorating Buddhist history.

Once in the Rattanakosin royal district, the lavish Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple await in the heart of the city. This dazzling landmark will leave you speechless with its majestic beauty. Nearby is the largest temple in the world, Wat Pho Temple with an enormous reclining Buddha and Wat Arun Temple with Khmer-style spires and steep steps. Grab a tuk-tuk and head to The Golden Mount for a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Other noteworthy sites are the Suan Pakkad Palace, the National Museum, and Vinmanmek, all considered treasures in their own right. Chinatown is rich in scrumptious food and long-standing traditions. Savor not only the cuisine but the culture as well. Taste the Michelin-star shrimp dumplings, gui chai, or tom yum. Navigating Bangkok is quite easy with an elevated sky-train connecting hotels directly to malls and traditional markets. Bangkok’s shopping has acquired world-class status!

Days 6 & 7: Phuket

Phuket, the largest island of Thailand, is overflowing with the sea, forest, sand and legendary diving sites. This famous resort island is encircled by white beaches with a lively beachfront center. Shop and experience a lively nightlife after a day out in the sun. For the most beautiful sunset in Thailand, scooter to the cape at Laem Phromthep Viewpoint.

For quieter beaches, rest at Kata or Nai Harn. For adrenaline-pumping adventure, kitesurf, paraglide, rock-climb, four-wheel, zip-line, navigate the high ropes course, bungee jump, or scuba dive. For shopping, Phuket Town has a Chinese-Portuguese style architecture where you will find numerous trendy boutiques. Note the Italian floor tiles in Baan Chinpracha mansion or relish in Phuket’s culture and history at the Thai Hua Museum.

Tour the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery or take a trip to Wat Chalong. Sitting 147-ft. tall, Big Buddha Phuket is an iconic landmark of Phuket. Atop Nakkerd Hills, take in a panoramic view of the island. Toh Sai Hill, or Monkey Hill, is the highest hill in town. With hundreds of macaques living here, there will never be a dull moment! Finally, dine in luxury at the well-known restaurant Mom Tri’s Kitchen for upscale Thai cuisine.

Days 8 & 9: Railay Beach

This Thai beach paradise, located on a small peninsula off the Andaman Sea, is something very special. The soaring cliffs, next to pristine beaches, offer laidback vibes. Railay feels tranquil and serene as no cars are allowed in the town, making boats the only way to get to Railay! Rent a kayak and glide into hidden lagoons and caves. Peer at the limestone structures or brave a rock-climbing excursion. Relax on Phra Nang Beach, tour Pranang and Tham Pranangnai Caves, or swim in the glow of bioluminescent plankton at nighttime. Railay Beach features something extraordinary both day and night. The sunsets are magical with the perfect recipe of beaches, cliffs, and ocean. Watch the golden sun drop down into the sea as you reminisce about your amazing cultural journey to Thailand!

Day 10: Journey Home

Ferry back to Phuket and fly out of Phuket Airport.

Have a safe flight home!