Thailand 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Thailand

Day 1: Bangkok

Activities

  1. Visit Grand Palace: This iconic palace complex is a must-see in Bangkok. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing (no bare shoulders or knees).
  2. Explore Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho: Both temples are located close to the Grand Palace. Wat Phra Kaew houses the Emerald Buddha, while Wat Pho is famous for its massive Reclining Buddha.
  3. Take a boat ride in Venice of the East - Canals of Bangkok: Experience the local life along the canals with a traditional long-tail boat ride.
  4. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere at Chatuchak Weekend Market: If you’re visiting on a weekend, don’t miss this enormous market for shopping, food, and cultural experiences.

Things to Know

  • Bangkok traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for travel.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Respect the local culture and dress modestly.

Day 2: Ayutthaya

Activities

  1. Day trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park: Explore the ruins of this ancient capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. Visit Wat Mahathat and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon: These temples are among the most impressive in Ayutthaya.
  3. Rent a bicycle or hire a tuktuk to explore the city at your own pace.

Transportation

  • Take a train or bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya (about 1.5 hours).

Day 3: Chiang Mai

Activities

  1. Visit Doi Suthep: Ride the cable car or drive up the mountain to visit this sacred temple and enjoy panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
  2. Explore Old City: Walk around the ancient walls and visit the beautiful temples, museums, and markets.
  3. Experience Thai Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Thai dishes in a local cooking school.
  4. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary: Spend a day helping to care for these gentle giants in a responsible and ethical sanctuary.

Things to Know

  • Chiang Mai can be cooler than Bangkok, so pack layers.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.

Day 4: Chiang Rai

Activities

  1. Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): This contemporary temple is one of Thailand’s most unique and Instagrammable attractions.
  2. Explore the Golden Triangle: See where the Mekong and Ruak rivers meet, marking the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
  3. Visit a Long Neck Karen Village: Learn about this ethnic minority group and their unique tradition of wearing heavy brass coils around their necks.
  4. Discover the Black House (Baan Dam): This art museum and residence of a famous Thai artist offers a darker, more avant-garde contrast to the White Temple.

Transportation

  • Take a minivan or bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai (about 3 hours).

Day 5: Phuket

Activities

  1. Relax on Patong Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at one of Phuket’s most popular beaches.
  2. Take a boat tour to Phang Nga Bay: Explore the stunning limestone islands and caves, and don’t miss James Bond Island.
  3. Visit the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong: These are two of Phuket’s most important temples.
  4. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage: Relax and unwind with a massage at one of Phuket’s many spas or massage parlors.

Things to Know

  • Phuket can be more expensive than other parts of Thailand, so budget accordingly.
  • Haggle when shopping for souvenirs.

Day 6: Khao Lak

Activities

  1. Visit the Similan Islands: Go snorkeling or diving to see some of the best coral reefs in Thailand.
  2. Explore the Bang Sai Yok Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs, perfect for soothing sore muscles after a day of adventure.
  3. Take a walk on Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park: This national park offers beautiful jungle walks and is home to wildlife such as elephants and gibbons.
  4. Visit the Tsunami Memorial Park: Learn about the 2004 tsunami that devastated Khao Lak and pay respects to those who lost their lives.

Things to Know

  • Khao Lak is quieter than Phuket, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Book boat tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly.

Day 7: Bangkok

Activities

  1. Visit the Jim Thompson House: This beautiful teakwood house is filled with art and antiques and offers insight into the life of Jim Thompson, the American who revitalized Thailand’s silk industry.
  2. Explore the Asiatique Night Market: Shop for souvenirs, enjoy street food, and watch cultural performances at this popular night market.
  3. Take a river cruise: Enjoy a romantic dinner or a casual drink while cruising along Bangkok’s rivers.
  4. Visit a rooftop bar: Watch the sunset over the city from one of Bangkok’s many rooftop bars, such as Sky Bar or Vertigo & Moon Bar.

Transportation

  • Take a flight from Phuket to Bangkok (about 1 hour).

Visa Requirements

For most countries, tourists can enter Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, apply for a visa in advance or extend your stay at an immigration office while in Thailand. Always check the latest requirements as they may change.

Enjoy your trip to Thailand!