In this guide
Ten days is enough to see three sides of Thailand: the energy of Bangkok, the temples and mountains of the north, and a tropical island. This plan uses two short domestic flights to keep travel time low.
Days 1–3: Bangkok
Day 1: Arrive and settle in near a BTS or MRT station. Evening in Chinatown (Yaowarat) for street food. Day 2: The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in the morning, Wat Pho's Reclining Buddha, then a boat across to Wat Arun at sunset. Rooftop drinks in the evening. Day 3: Choose a day trip to Ayutthaya or a floating market, or explore Chatuchak Weekend Market (weekends) and a modern mall food hall.
More ideas: things to do in Bangkok.
Days 4–6: Chiang Mai
Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai (about 1 hour 10 minutes). Afternoon at Old City temples Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Night market dinner. Day 5: Morning at an ethical elephant sanctuary, afternoon at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for views over the city. Day 6: Thai cooking class in the morning, free afternoon for a massage or the Sunday or Saturday Walking Street if it's the weekend.
See our Chiang Mai guide.
Days 7–10: The islands
Day 7: Fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket or Krabi (direct flights are common), or to Koh Samui in the Gulf season. Day 8: Island-hopping day trip: Koh Phi Phi and Maya Bay from Phuket, or the Four Islands and Railay from Krabi. Day 9: Beach day, snorkelling, kayaking or a spa. Sunset dinner by the sea. Day 10: Relax, then fly home or back to Bangkok for your international flight. Leave a buffer in case of delays.
Getting between stops
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai: about 1 hour 10 minutes by air, or an overnight train.
- Chiang Mai to Phuket or Krabi: about 2 hours by air.
- Phuket or Krabi to home: check whether a one-way international ticket from Phuket is cheaper than flying back via Bangkok.
Budget guide
Thailand offers great value. Mid-range travellers often spend around 60–120 US dollars per person per day excluding international flights, depending on hotels and activities. Domestic flights booked in advance are usually affordable.
Compare flights to Bangkok, and check the best time to visit Thailand before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Is 10 days in Thailand enough?
Yes, for a great first taste of three regions: Bangkok, the north and one beach area. Use domestic flights between them to save time.
Should I go to the islands first or last?
Many people finish on the beach to relax before flying home. If you have a long-haul flight, ending in Bangkok or flying out from Phuket can also work.
Which islands should I choose for this itinerary?
From November to April choose the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi). From January to September the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) are a good alternative.
Prices are estimates and can change. Check entry rules, opening times and safety advice before you travel. Some links are partner links: if you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
