Phuket is a Thai island located in the Andaman Sea. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lively nightlife. And if you’re visiting Thailand, you need to include all these activities on your Phuket itinerary.

Many people think of Phuket as a haven for partying, and it is! But it’s way more than that. This stunning destination offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy year round. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Phuket has something to offer everyone. Promise!

Tip: Phuket is pronounced ‘Poo-ket’ – try to say it phonetically and you might end up in a spot of trouble!

→ Read Next: The Perfect Two Week Thailand Itinerary (All My Favorite Spots)

Logistics for your Phuket Itinerary

Where is Phuket & How To Get There

Phuket is the largest Thai island off the southwest coast of the country. Thailand itself has over 1400 islands and Phuket consists of the main island as well as another 32 smaller islands off the coast, which makes it the perfect location for some Thai island hopping!

To get to this tropical paradise, you can fly directly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) from around 45 cities all over the world, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, London and Zurich. Yes, depending on where you’re coming from it’ll probably take quite a while, but I promise once you step foot onto the island it’ll be more than worth it.

Psst: I always recommend checking flights into Bangkok as well, as you may find much cheaper options and then can make the short flight to Phuket.

If you’re already in the country and exploring other areas, the easiest way to get to Phuket is by bus. There are a few buses that go directly from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to Phuket every day, with a journey time of between 11-13 hours. 

Although the quickest way to get to Phuket is to fly from one of Thailand’s many airports (I cannot even think about sitting on a bus for over 10 hours, ack!). But if you do choose to travel by bus, make sure you choose an air-conditioned bus — you’ll thank me later!

Best Time to Visit Phuket

Pack your sunnies and a hat, as Phuket is hot all year round! The island does have two distinct seasons, explained below:

• November – April: The best time to visit Phuket is during the dry season, lasting from November to April. This is the ideal time for snorkeling and scuba diving as the water is calm and clear. However, it’s also the time when the beaches are super crowded, and hotels are the most expensive.

• May – October: The monsoon season in Phuket runs from May to October. While the rain can get quite heavy at times and it’s not the best time of year for water activities, it does mean that there are fewer tourists on the beaches and you can find amazing deals on flights and hotels. 

Festivals: If weather isn’t your main motivator and you’d rather be in Phuket during one of their epic festivals, you’ve got a few options. Actually, more than a few – plenty! Here’s some of the most popular festivals in Phuket:

• Chinese New Year: The date of this festival changes every year but it’s typically in late January to early February. Phuket goes big for Chinese New Year to celebrate the wide Chinese community there. Storefronts are decorated with lanterns and red banners and dancers take to the colorful streets in preparation of the dragon processions.

• Phuket Old Town Festival: This festival takes place at the same time as Chinese New Year, so if you’re in Phuket during that time, you get a bonus! The streets around the old town are closed off to cars and turned into walking streets where you’ll see parades, dancing, street food vendors and live music. 

• Wat Chalong Fair: Looking for yet another bonus of visiting Phuket during Chinese New Year? You guessed it! Every year during Chinese New Year, the Wat Chalong Fair is held at the largest temple in Phuket over the course of 7 days. It’s a wonder of street food, market stalls, stage shows, and amusement rides.

• Songkran: This is essentially a giant water fight festival which sees adults and children alike take to the streets with water guns, water balloons and buckets of water. It takes place in April each year. Prepare to get soaked!

• Loy Krathong: Otherwise known as the lantern festival, Loy Krathong takes place on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar (usually early November). It’s believed that on this night, a floating basket containing offerings to the gods is let loose, bringing good fortune. You’ll see thousands of lanterns floating down rivers, canals and lakes, with stalls selling or teaching you how to make your own. 

• Kathu Festival: This street culture festival takes place in July and is a more modern kind of Phuket festival. It’s about celebrating traditions and passing them onto generations to come. You can expect to enjoy parades, martial arts, a heck of a lot of street food, and fascinating exhibitions. 

• Patong Carnival: The Patong Carnival is held every year at the beginning of November to mark the beginning of the high season when the weather starts to pick up. Patong Beach Road is transformed into a giant international food court where you can fill up on all sorts of worldwide dishes, street food, and carnival specialties. There’s also live music, shows, and activities held during these three days. 

On the other hand, if festivals aren’t your jam, plan your Phuket itinerary for another time. I’d look at your travel dates to make sure they don’t overlap with any major festivals. Festivals are huge deals in Phuket, so just remember it’ll most likely be pretty crowded. Stay away if you’re looking for a quiet holiday!

How to get around Phuket

Thankfully, getting around Phuket is easy! There are plenty of ways to get around depending on how much you want to spend and whether you prefer public transport or going it alone. And if you’re following this Phuket itinerary, half of the time you’ll be exploring by boat anyways!

Motorbike rental: If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a motorbike or scooter is the best way to explore the island at your own pace. Don’t forget to bring your international driving license if you plan to do this. You’ll also want to be careful as the drivers in Phuket are notoriously road-rageous! However, if you don’t feel confident to drive yourself, you can also hire a motorbike driver who will take you where you want to go for pretty cheap!

Taxis: There’s no shortage of taxis in Phuket – just make sure you’ve agreed on a price before getting into the car. If you’re looking for something different, I’d recommend taking a tuk-tuk. It’s quite an experience (I’ll leave it to you to decide whether it’s a terrifying experience or an exciting one!).

Grab: Grab is pretty much the Uber of Asia. This is my preferred method of transport in the evenings. Be sure to download the app before you arrive and you’ll be good to go. Rates are typically pretty competitive and there’ll be no language barrier when telling your driver where to go. 

Public transport: Phuket has a public bus service, but it’s not the most reliable and I never really managed to suss it out properly so I wouldn’t recommend it. And plus, if you only have 3 days in Phuket, you wanna make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious time on the bus.

What to Pack for Your Phuket Itinerary

It’s warm, it’s humid – you’re going to be sweaty. Just accept it, haha. You don’t want to pack too many clothes, but you also wanna make sure you’re prepared for anything and everything.

Lightweight clothing is a must. Shorts, cotton t-shirts, and light summer dresses are what most people wear around the island. Oh, and light comfortable shoes for walking. If you’re visiting during monsoon season be sure to have a light waterproof jacket with you, because well, it’s the rainy season.

Your day bag for tours and sightseeing should include sunscreen, a water bottle, bug spray and sunglasses. Did I mention sunscreen?! Particularly if you’re out on a boat all day – that boat sun is sneaky! You’ll also want to include a cover up for temples in your day bag. 

Where to Stay in Phuket

Let’s talk about accommodations – where should you stay in Phuket? Well, this really depends on one major factor. What kind of traveler are you? 

There are two sides to Phuket accommodation:

• the “backpacking, beach partying, only need a couple of hours’ sleep” side
• and the “I need a bit of R&R and a good night’s sleep” upmarket side (that’s obviously not to say that there aren’t plenty of mid-range hotels in Phuket)

Luckily for the budget conscious, you get a lot more bang for your buck in Phuket. There’s a big scene for backpackers all over the island. 

If you’re looking to party it up and don’t need much sleep, I’d recommend staying anywhere along Patong Beach Road. There are bars nearby and you’ll be just a few steps from the beach. A few recommendations:

• Luxury: Rosewood Phuket (this is if you have no qualms about spending a fortune)
• Mid Range: The Andaman Beach Hotel (just a few steps from the beach)
• Budget: Art Patong Residence (budget, but you still get an outdoor pool)

For a more relaxed stay away from the crowds, I recommend staying in Nai Yang (which is where I stayed). There are some great boutique resorts in Nai Yang that offer a beachfront location and all the amenities you’ll need like a pool, restaurant, wi-fi, etc.

• Luxury: The Slate (on the beach and three pools to choose from)
• Mid Range: Naiyang Park Resort (just two minutes walk from the beach but you’ll feel like you’re in a rainforest with the lush green surroundings)
• Budget: Check In Hostel (more than you could expect in a hostel, plus minutes from the beach)

For something completely different, stay in a luxury tree house at the Keemala Resort Phuket for a night! 

Where to Eat in Phuket 

Food is a definite highlight on any Phuket itinerary — there are countless restaurants, street stalls and cafes serving up tasty treats all over the island.

You’ve got your beachfront seafood shacks, your hot pot places in the middle of the night markets, your local Thai food stalls where you can eat for next to nothing. Bring your stretchy pants — you’ll never go hungry here. 

Here’s my two favorite spots to eat in Phuket (don’t miss them!):

• Breakfast: Head to Chao Leh Kitchen on Patong Beach for breakfast. It’s got western favorites as well as Phuket gems. Eggs Benedict are my usual go to breakfast but their Khao Phad was delicious too.

• Lunch or dinner time: Tunk-Ka Cafe on Khao Rang Hill is a great spot with lovely food. You can see all of Phuket town from this hillside gem. 

You can’t visit Phuket without trying the street food. There are heaps of food stalls in the middle of Phuket night markets where you can get anything from dim sum (my favorite!) to tom yum kung (a spicy shrimp soup) and of course Pad Thai. 

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to eat your own food, try a Thai cooking class where you’ll go to the market to pick out your fresh ingredients, learn how to cook a local meal, and get to enjoy it right after!

Additional Important Information about Phuket

• Language: In Phuket, like other parts of Thailand, the language spoken is Thai. However, many Thai people also know some English so it’s fairly easy to communicate. Especially if you’re venturing to the touristy parts of town. I always recommend learning a few simple phrases in the local language out of respect for the locals.

• Currency: The Thai baht is the accepted currency of Phuket. You’ll need this mostly for market stalls, tips, and street food. For hotels, restaurants, and tours you can typically use your credit card. 

• Temple Etiquette: When visiting temples on your Phuket itinerary, be respectful. Don’t take selfies with your back to Buddha, always take your shoes off before entering a temple, and cover your shoulders and knees also.

• Drinking water: Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so always have your own bottle you can fill up from your hotel before heading out for the day.

• Safety: Phuket is definitely safe for tourists and even solo travelers. As always, have your wits about you at all times to be on the safe side. 

Is 3 days in Phuket Enough?

I know what you’re thinking. With 32 islands and all there is to see and do, how can 3 days in Phuket be enough time for everything? I promise, this Phuket itinerary will have you exploring numerous islands and all the best things to do on the main island itself.

While it may be a relatively short stay and you could indeed spend so much time there exploring every nook and cranny, if you’re looking to explore the island and really get a feel for what it’s like, 3 days is definitely enough time. 

If you’re coming from afar, I definitely recommend adding Phuket onto a much longer Thailand itinerary. Don’t miss out on the city of Bangkok, caring for elephants and exploring temples in Chiang Mai, and living out your beach bliss on Koh Phi Phi and Krabi!

Now that all the important pre-itinerary information has been covered, it’s time to get into the perfect guide for spending 3 days in Phuket!

3 Days in Phuket: The Ultimate Phuket Itinerary

Phuket Itinerary Day 1 – Island Hopping around Phi Phi Islands

First stop on any Phuket itinerary — The Phi Phi Islands! This island chain is made up of 6 islands, which make it the perfect destination for island hopping in Thailand. While it’s possible to get to all these stops on your own, I recommend booking with a reputable tour guide to take you out for the day. It’s quite complicated and time consuming figuring out the logistics of getting around Phi Phi yourself. Just opt for a day tour, they make everything that much more simpler.

A tour like this full day Phi Phi islands tour from Phuket brings you to all the stops listed below! And it’s such a good value!

Most tour guides will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and drop you back in the evening. You’ll definitely want to give yourself the entire day for exploring Phi Phi and likely won’t be back to your hotel until around 6pm. 

The islands are about 45km from Phuket so you’ll take a one hour speedboat from Phuket Marina to our first stop. 

If you’re wearing a hat on the boat, be sure that it fits…..that’s all I’ll say on the matter (ahem)!

Stop 1 – Bamboo Island

First stop on our Phi Phi island hopping tour is Bamboo Island, also known as Koh Mai Phai, for swimming and snorkeling. It looks just like one of those paradise islands you see in the movies — no joke! Just look at all the white sand!

It’s called Bamboo Island because – you guessed it – it’s covered in bamboo trees. But that’s not all. There are plenty of other types of trees on the island. In fact, while the outer part of the island is white sandy beach, the inner part is just greenery. 

Just 50 meters off the beach is a coral reef perfect for snorkeling and exploring underwater life in some of the clearest waters I’ve ever seen. If you’re not too interested in snorkeling, take a dip in the water and relax on the beach instead. 

Stop 2 – Monkey Island

Next stop is Monkey Island where you’ll continue your snorkeling adventure through more incredible coral reefs. Snorkeling here gives you the feeling that you’re in an aquarium. It’s the strangest experience, but amazing. 

The island is set on a backdrop of steep limestone cliffs, which are home to the monkeys on the island. When you see the monkeys, be sure to remember that they’re wild animals and not friendly pets. Keep your distance and hold onto your belongings — they’re sneaky little creatures! They’re known to steal hats and even open up backpacks, so watch your stuff carefully!

Stop 3 – Phi Phi Don

If you’re starting to feel peckish after all that swimming and snorkeling this morning, head over to Phi Phi Don, the largest of the Phi Phi islands, for lunch. Phi Phi Don has a great selection of places to eat, whether you’re looking for traditional Thai cuisine or international. 

I recommend Oasis Bar & Restaurant on the north of the island. It’s a quirky little place but the food is great and there’s a good variety too. Don’t forget the mango sticky rice for dessert! My absolute favorite!

Stop 4 – Viking Cave

After lunch, take a boat to Viking Cave, known locally as Tham Paya Nak. It’s one of the most famous natural sites on Koh Phi Phi Leh set under a limestone cliff on the northeast of the island. 

Viking Cave got its name because of paintings found on the walls of the cave representing various types of boats, including what looks like a Scandinavian Drakkar, a Viking ship. It’s thought that the paintings were made by sailors taking shelter in the cave during a storm.

The cave isn’t open to the public because of the local activity of harvesting swiftlet birds’ nests. But it’s still interesting to take a boat around the cave and spot the unique rock formation as well as the bamboo scaffolding set up for the locals to collect the birds’ nests. 

Stop 5 – Pileh Lagoon

Your next stop is where the Instagram gold is! Pileh Lagoon is a secluded lagoon with crystal clear waters, surrounded by giant limestone cliffs and white powdery sand. You absolutely have to swim in the natural pool. It was one of my favorite parts of the day. If you’re with a local tour, this will likely be your last stop for swimming so make the most of it! 

Stop 6 – Maya Bay

Last stop before heading back to Phuket is Maya Bay, made famous for being the location used in the filming of The Beach. It’s somewhere you might not have even noticed because it’s almost completely sheltered by cliffs, but once you get in, it’s incredibly beautiful.

The bad news: you probably won’t get to stop to explore here. It’s become so popular because of its fame and beauty, that a lot of the tours won’t stop at Maya Bay for more than a few minutes, just to take pictures. Of course, if you’re visiting on your own I recommend coming here either early in the morning or after 5 in the evening. 

The boat ride back to Phuket takes about an hour and if you’re anything like me you’ll be tired and a little dehydrated (we’re not used to this weather!) so take the time to relax and enjoy the ride. 

Stop 7 – Night Market

After freshening up at your hotel, head out to one of Phuket’s famous night markets. There are a few to choose from, but I recommend Chillva Night Market in Phuket Town. It’s got tons of food stalls serving up cheap delicious Thai food.

The market has a really fun boho vibe to it. The storefronts are upcycled shipping containers and there’s just about everything you might want to bring back as a souvenir. You’ll find clothes, accessories, art work and of course the usual fun novelty souvenirs.

You can absolutely bargain for cheaper prices but the prices are already really good and I felt bad bargaining too much as I didn’t want anyone out of pocket — I know I’m an amateur!

3 Days in Phuket: Day 2 – James Bond Island & Muslim Fishing Village

You’re off out onto the water again today, but this time you’ll be cruising around the Phang Nga Bay. What’s it known for?! Where the James Bond Island scenes in The Man with the Golden Gun were filmed! While yesterday’s islands were more about the beaches and relaxing, today’s itinerary is a little more adventurous. 

I joined a local tour, just as I did with the island hopping on day 1, and if you don’t have much time in Phuket I recommend doing the same so you can get the most out of the islands. I opted for a later start tour because….well, I like to sleep in. Oh and unbeknownst to me it meant dodging the earlier crowds so that was a bonus!

→ Psst: Tours sell out (as this is one of the more popular things to do on any Phuket itinerary). Book yours ahead of time. This full day James Bond Island Day Trip from Phuket is the perfect one!

Phang Nga Bay lies between Phang Nga, Krabi and Phuket and is protected as part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. The more scenic way to tour around Phang Nga Bay is by longtail boat. 

Stop 1: Koh Panyee Floating Village

First stop on today’s itinerary is Koh Panyee Floating Village. This is like nothing I had ever seen before. 

It started out with three families who were looking for the best fishing spot. They found this area and created their own ‘island’. Over the years, their village grew into a community of more than 400 people who now call Koh Panyee home. 

Like any other village, it has a school, restaurants, a hospital and markets. It even has a mosque as the villagers are predominantly Muslim. 

The kids have built their own football pitch and are quite skilled at it – even if it means having to jump into the water every few minutes after the ball goes out of bounds. 

After exploring the village, stop at one of the many seafood restaurants on this floating village. They know how to make good seafood! You might want to pick up a few souvenirs here too. They’ll accept dollars here if you don’t have Thai Baht but just be sure to have small denominations. 

Stop 2: Kayaking Koh Phanak

Next up is kayaking through the caves of Koh Phanak. You’ll come across incredible limestone rock formations, including impressive stalagmites and stalactites — I can never remember which are which, but there were both! 

The locals will take you through on inflatable kayaks as it can be difficult to maneuver through them yourself. I was a bit miffed as I kind of wanted to kayak by myself but after seeing the skill required by the guides, I quickly changed my mind.

Stop 3: Koh Hong

Koh Hong is another island with incredible caves and lagoons to explore. Hong in Thai means room and it makes sense when you’re canoeing through the caves. Some of the areas are so small, just like little rooms, and the guides have to let out some air in the canoe just to get through the smaller areas. 

At times, it’s pitch dark and only the light from flashlights guide you through. If you are one to get claustrophobic, this may not be the best activity for you but it is a really fun adventure if you don’t mind small spaces. 

Stop 4: James Bond Island

Last on our Phang Nga Bay tour is James Bond Island, known locally as Khao Phing Kan, just in time for sunset. One of the most distinct features of James Bond Island is the tall vertical island standing out from the bay. 

As we approached the island, we were told of a legend about this strange vertical structure. It is said that many years ago, there was a fisherman who everyday would catch lots and lots of fish. One day he went out and caught nothing, other than an old nail. The fisherman got so mad that he broke the nail in half and threw it back in the water. This vertical island is said to have grown from that nail! 

Swim, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset before heading back on the boat to Phuket and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel later that evening. 

3 Days in Phuket: Day 3 – Big Buddhas and Cabaret

Morning: Karon Viewpoint & Kata Beach

It’s our last day on our Phuket itinerary, so let’s make it a good one! Ok, so you’re either going to love me or hate me for this, but this morning you’re getting up incredibly early to watch the sunrise from Karon Viewpoint. Don’t worry, I’m not going to have you hiking this early (although it’s only an hour’s walk from Karon Beach) — you can easily get a taxi or rent a motorbike to get up to the viewpoint. 

Once there, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous panoramic views of Karon, Kata, and Kata Noi beaches and all will be forgiven! The viewpoint is one of the famous views of Phuket, which is why I recommend going up early in the morning to beat the crowds. And who doesn’t love a panoramic island sunrise?

After you’ve gotten all the photos you can possibly take, make your way down to Kata beach for some breakfast, chilling on the beach and having fun in the water. Kata beach is often referred to as the most beautiful beach in Phuket. It’s literally got something for everyone. 

Want a massage? Get one on Kata beach. Want to go surfing? Kata beach is the surfing capital of Phuket. Want to learn the art of Muay? You guessed it, there’s a place that will teach you Thai boxing on Kata beach. 

If surfing is a bit too ambitious for you (as it was for me), Kata beach is great for snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding (unless you can’t seem to stay upright, like me) and kayaking (more my level). 

Early afternoon: Big Buddha & Wat Chalong

Unless you’ve been keeping your eyes closed the entire time you’ve been in Phuket, you’ll have seen the Big Buddha out your window at some point or another. And this afternoon you get to go see it for yourself. 

The Big Buddha is a 45 meter (yep, it’s huge!) white marble statue built on a patch of virgin rainforest on top of Nakkerd Hill between Chalong and Kata. From the base of the statue, you’ll get incredible views over Phuket Town, Chalong, Kata and Karon. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is a 2.5km trail leading up the hill. If not, you can drive or take a motorbike or scooter. 

It’s an active temple and you can go inside, but remember to bring a cover up to make sure you’re appropriately dressed before going in. You’ll need to take your shoes off before entering too. 

Yes, the Big Buddha is full of tourists at most times of the day, given that it’s one of Phuket’s most visited landmarks. But if you can get over that, it really is something spectacular to see. Whatever you do, don’t leave this off your Phuket itinerary — you’ll regret it, promise!

Next up is Wat Chalong, also known as Wat Chaitararam, Phuket’s most famous Buddhist temple. It’s said a lot of miracles have occurred in the temple and inside the Poh Jao Wat area there are two statues of elderly men, one of whom is Ta Khee-Lek — a man who went on to win numerous lotteries after his visit. Needless to say, I bought a lottery ticket after my visit! 

Inside the Grand Pagoda, you’ll find a tiny splinter of bone from Buddha. The walls and ceilings are beautifully decorated with images and pictures that depict the life of the Buddha.

Late afternoon: Phuket Old Town

Time for a stroll around Phuket Old Town later this afternoon. This area of Phuket is the very definition of atmospheric. The streets are lined with colorful cafes, shrines and temples. 

You’ve got a few choices on how to spend your afternoon, depending on how much time you have:

Thai Hua Museum: If you want to learn a bit about Phuket’s history and the Chinese influence on the island, head to the Thai Hua Museum on Krabi Road. The building itself is a beautiful Sino-Portuguese building and looks more like an old mansion than a museum. There are a dozen exhibition rooms within the museum space and a quaint courtyard. 

Shrines and Temples: You’ll come across a bunch of shrines and temples on your stroll around Phuket Old Town. Some of my favorites were Jui Tui Shrine, a colorful Chinese temple dating back to the 1900s, and Sang Tham Shrine, otherwise known as the Shrine of the Serene Light.

Pab Khean Thai Art Gallery & Frame: If you’re into art, stop by this art gallery (also an art school) and discover beautiful acrylic and oil paintings or even take an art class yourself. 

Vanich Walking Street: This is a small corridor connecting Phang Nga Road and Thalang Road. The corridor has stalls set up selling clothes, food crafts and street art. It’s very cool! 

Image 23 – Soi Romanee – photo by Jamie Monk, FlickrCC

Soi Romanee: An Instagram favorite spot, Soi Romanee is a street lined with colorful buildings. While the Thai word ‘rommani’ means beautiful (and you’ll see why when you get to this street), the street used to be knownas the red light district in Phuket and now Soi Romanee roughly translates to ‘naughty with the ladies’! Don’t forget to look up and spot many colorful Chinese shrines. 

Phang Nga Road: I never knew I was such a lover of street art until I came to Phuket and walked around the island taking hundreds of photos of street art. Topping my list is Phang Nga Road in Phuket Old Town where you’ll find beautiful murals covering the walls and buildings. If you like photography, don’t leave this off your Phuket itinerary!

Evening: Simon Cabaret Show

You can’t spend 3 days in Phuket without a trip to one of the local shows. Phuket Simon Cabaret is one of the most glamorous cabaret shows not only in Phuket, but in all of Thailand! This glitzy extravaganza combines live music, dance and comedy routines from a group of transgender performers.

The costumes, the choreography, the music — it’s all spectacularly done (to be fair, I’m a theater nerd and these things really excite me!). 

Think the Moulin Rouge, meets the Rockettes, meets Ru Paul’s Drag Race. It’s fantastic! After the show, hang around and get some pictures with the stars of the show. 

Night: Bangla Road 

If you’re up for continuing the party, then Bangla Road in Patong Beach is the place to be. And if it’s cheap beer you’re after, then you’re definitely in the right place!

Bangla road is shut down to cars after sunset and transforms into a huge outdoor party street with lights, loud music, bars and nightclubs. It is THE place to be for Phuket nightlife. It’s a great atmosphere, full of locals and tourists alike. You can dance the night away with the occasional beer…or eight.

If your Phuket itinerary happens to take place during a full moon, I highly recommend giving Bangla Road a miss tonight (or add it to day 1 or day 2 of your Phuket itinerary) and head to a full moon party on Paradise Beach instead. It’s not every day you get to party under a full moon on a paradise island so if you get the chance, do it!

I hope this Phuket itinerary has you excited for your trip! What are you most looking forward to visiting during your 3 days in Phuket?

Vourneen from Snap Happy Spoonie is a travel & adventure junkie and a chronic illness warrior (aka a Spoonie!). She shares tips on how to travel when you have a chronic illness, as well as epic destination guides. You can follow her adventures through her blog or on social media:

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You don’t wanna miss this Bangkok travel blog!

Bangkok is not only the capital city of Thailand, but the country’s biggest metropolitan city, built around the Chao Phraya river delta. It’s been a popular weekend getaway destination for other nearby countries, but with so many international flights to Thailand arriving in the city, so many people opt to spend 2 days in Bangkok or so (before heading to Chiang Mai and then the islands).

And after you hop off that long flight, you can expect to experience an array of activities in Bangkok – from visiting beautiful temples, eating great Thai food (I still have dreams about the mango sticky rice), cultural activities, and yes, some incredible shopping!

Psst – if you’ve got more time in the country, be sure to check out my extremely and ridiculously detailed 2 week Thailand itinerary.

Although I would normally advise to visit any major city for more than a few measly days, you can really fit in oh so much with only 2 days in Bangkok. That is if you follow my itinerary to a T! It’s the exact one we used when visiting Thailand last December, and found it very doable, although I must say it was a tad difficult to keep up with due to our horrible jet lag!

But if you’ve only got 2 or 3 days in Bangkok and want to see all the main highlights (and then some), this itineraries for you – let me know if you end up following it and how it was down below in the comments!

When to Visit Bangkok

Bangkok, being a metropolitan city that never experiences frigid temps, means it’s great to visit all year long. HOWEVER (yes, of course there’s a however), I would highly advise avoiding the peak monsoon season as the amount of rainfall can be a bit unexpected.

And who wants rain your entire 2 or 3 days in Bangkok – not I, that’s for sure.

The Monsoon season in Bangkok starts around July and ends in October, but might even stretch into the early weeks of November, so avoid these months.

The best time to visit Bangkok is December through February since temperatures are more bearable at that time and the rain will likely have stopped.

Getting into the city from the Airport

If you are landing in Bangkok between the hours of 6 AM to midnight, you might want to consider taking the Airport Rail Link to the city. The Public Train in Bangkok is fast, clean, reliable, and you get to avoid the dreaded Bangkok traffic especially if you are arriving at peak hours (morning or around dinner time).

There are two international airports in Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport (where I flew into from San Francisco) and Don Mueang Airport. You can take the Airport Rail Link from either of these airports. From there, you can then resume your journey via the local MRT trains to whichever station is near your hotels.

The best thing about them? The train only cost 45 Baht per ride – that’s only about US$1.40!

However, if you aren’t keen on the train, then you can just get a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-book your airport transfer online for the ultimate convenience! Just make sure you know which airport you are landing in to, Suvarnabhumi Airport (SVB) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK), so you can book the correct transfer:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport Transfer
• Don Mueang Airport Transfer

How to Get Around Bangkok

• Metered Taxi – There are metered taxis available all over Bangkok, but just make sure they are indeed metered to avoid being ripped off just because you are a tourist. Double confirm with the driver that they will be using the meter before you get in the taxi.

• Grab (Ride sharing) – I used Grab (same concept as Uber) a few times when I was in Bangkok. I found them to be quite reliable, though in the Bangkok traffic you might have to wait for them a bit longer than a taxi, 10-15 minutes.

• Public Train (MRT) – As I said above, the Bangkok train system is great! They’re easy to use and the machine caters to English speakers. My only gripe is that they’re not nearly as extensive as I would like them to be. You can reach certain tourist destinations just fine, but you probably have to walk a little or continue your journey with a taxi to actually get where you want. That said, it’s still a great option for daily use and it’s extremely affordable.

• Private Car Hire – If you can’t be bothered dealing with getting a taxi or public transport, you can also hire a private car to take you around for the entire day. No shame in that, and if you aren’t the best with public transportation (truuuust me, I wasted sooo much time figuring out the trains in Tokyo), a private car hire for the day maaaay just be the way to go (especially if you’ve only got two days in Bangkok to do alllll the things). Your call, you know yourself best. Book them here.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Most tourist will find it convenient to stay in the Sukhumvit Area. The MRT stops by the area and it’s easy to get around from here. I would advise looking around the following stations on the green line: Nana, Asok, Phloen Chit and Chit Lom.

Personally, I’ve stayed at Citadines Serviced Apartments and found them to be an excellent place. Affordable and conveniently located! I recommend checking out Citadines Sukhumvit 8 or Citadines Sukhumvit 23.

If you want something with a scenic view (complete with refreshing infinity pool), consider staying near the river. I HIGHLY recommend the Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel as we loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this hotel.

The staff really made our 3 days in Bangkok so special, and were always willing to answer all our crazy tourist questions, make reservations for us if need be, and refill our glasses with mango smoothies. And oh, that infinity pool was absolutely to die for (which we went in every chance we got!)

Note that the Avani Riverside Bangkok is on the “other side” of the Chao Phraya River, but a free shuttle boat is available every 20 minutes which goes straight to the metro.

We didn’t find this location a nuisance at all like we had originally thought, and loved being away from all the hustle and bustle of downtown Bangkok. Check prices and reviews here.

Language and Currency in Bangkok

Most residents in Bangkok speak Thai and very basic English. Make sure you have your Google Translate app pre-loaded with the Thai translation pack for easy communication.

As for currency, Thailand uses Baht – at the time of writing trades at 100 Baht to US$3.15. An easy off the top of my head calculation estimate would be just to multiply each 100 Baht by 3, so 200 Baht is approximately US$6, 400 Baht is approximately US$12, etc.

General Tips on Visiting Thailand

• Thailand is generally a safe place. Of course you should still exercise common sense, tourist scams still exist in Thailand, but I never felt threatened while I was there.

• Bring cash if you are planning to shop. Most of the night markets still operate on a cash basis.

• Be mindful when discussing Thai politics. The late king Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away in 2016, is an extremely well loved and respected figure in Thailand – and for good reasons too! So keep your political opinion to yourself and be respectful when discussing Thai politics.

• Please avoid riding elephants. Most elephants are abused in Thailand. They are tamed by exercising multiple psychological abuse on the elephant since they were young. Once tamed, the elephants are then made to carry weights above their physical limitation, such as carrying 3-4 tourists at a time. It’s horrifying! The most humane way to interact with elephants is to visit an elephant sanctuary, which takes in abused elephants and nurse them back to health.

• Similarly, most tiger temples are a form of animal abuse. Tigers are wild animals and they are not meant to be petted or caged around humans. It’s best to avoid these altogether. Just don’t do it – please and thank you.

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

If you’re coming from the USA, you’ll need to get a few vaccines prior to traveling to Thailand. Recommended shots from the CDC include typhoid, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. In addition, some choose to take daily malaria pills to prevent this mosquito-borne disease, but consult with your doctor.

My doctor recommended I take malaria pills since I’m very prone to mosquito bites, but my husbands did not for him.

You cannot drink the water in Thailand, but don’t fret as most hotels provide their guests drinking water free of charge. In addition, you can find bottled water at every restaurant/convenience store for 5-50 baht (10 cents-$1.50 approximately).

Also, use caution when eating any suspicious looking fruits/veggies and meats on the street. During our two weeks in Thailand neither of us thankfully experienced any major stomach issues, but it’s always best to be careful.

In addition, you may want to ask your doctor for a prescription of Ciprofloxacin in case of any disturbing stomach issues you may find yourself in.

Finally, what you actually came here for, a super detailed, and everything-you-need-to-know 2 Day Bangkok itinerary:

2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary

Day 1: Temples Galore

Before we really get into it, it’s important to understand and be mindful of etiquette when visiting the temples listed below (and in all reality, any temple in Thailand for that matter).

Travel Tips & Etiquette for visiting Temples in Thailand

• There are a lot of temples to visit in Bangkok. If you can’t be bothered to plan the logistics of visiting all the temples by yourself, don’t worry! You can simply book this Walking Temple tour, which will get you a local English speaking guide to take you around to all the main highlights and ensure you don’t miss anything important!

• Trivia: “Wat” means temple in Thai, so whenever you see that word you know you are visiting a temple ground.

• There is a strict dress code in most temples in Thailand. Basically, you’ll need to be covered up. The most important part is to cover your shoulder and legs, so no sleeveless tops (short sleeved is fine) and shorts! This goes for both men and women so make sure you are well covered. You can still either rent/purchase a cover-up at the entrance of any of the temple, but it’s better if you can wear your own – one less thing to worry about!

• Be respectful. Temples are sacred grounds in Thailand. This means you should talk in a low volume voice, no fighting, and for couples – no PDA, please!

• Beware of common tourist scams in Thailand, especially since a number of those target tourists who are at temples to visit. The most popular one is lying about the operating hour of a temple. As you approach the entrance, someone might interrupt and tell you the temple is closed and offer to bring you elsewhere. Just ignore these scammers (and make sure the temple you are visiting is indeed open that day!). If you follow them, they’ll take you to a souvenir store and pressure you to buy overpriced clothing and jewelry.

• Wear Sandals or footwear that are easy to take off and put back on. You might be required to take off your shoes at some of these temples, and who wants to constantly take troublesome sneakers off?

So let’s get to it – back to Day 1 of the 2 day Bangkok itinerary!

1. Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Two birds, one stone! Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are within the same complex and they are both a MUST visit while you’re in Bangkok. Out of all the temples you’ll see in Thailand, the Grand Palace will be the most crowded by far.

Therefore, it’s absolutely imperative you visit this sacred site first thing in the morning when they open, at 8:30am (close at 3:30pm).

Crowds aside, this place is downright spectacular, and you’ll see more shiny golden structures than ever before. The Grand Palace is one of the most sacred grounds in Bangkok, so please take note of the temple visiting etiquette I’ve mentioned above!

Once you’re done with the Grand Palace, you can walk over to see the Emerald Buddha in Wat Phra Kaew. The Emerald Buddha, believed to have been crafted in the 14th century, is deeply respected in Thailand as the protector of the country.

The cost, 500 baht per person (roughly ~$15USD) is significantly higher than other temples, but well worth it in my opinion, just make sure you visit early.

Remember, if you’d rather wander around the temples with a guide who’ll make sure you get to all the important places, consider booking this tour.

2. Wat Pho (Temple of Reclining Buddha)

After visiting the Grand Palace complex, the next temple to visit is Wat Pho, famed for its giant golden reclining Buddha. The great news is that this temple is only a 5 minute walk from the Grand Palace!

Wat Pho, as the English name might have suggested, is famous for the Gold Reclining Buddha statue, standing at a remarkable 50 feet tall and 150 feet long! This statue is massive, bigger than other Buddha statues you’ll see in the city or elsewhere.

It also houses some of the most beautiful paintings along the walls of the temple. Just note, in order to enter the temple, you’ll need to take off your shoes. Also important to note that the temple grounds are open 24 hours, but the temples close around 5:30pm, including the one housing the reclining Buddha.

3. Thai Massage at Wat Pho

Visiting three places in one go will tire you out, so it’s time to try out the famed Thai Massage! Within the Wat Pho complex, there is Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School, a great place to get your massage. Check their price list here.

If you’ve never had a traditional Thai massage and/or don’t know much about them, please understand in advance they’re not your typical soothing, relaxing treatment. You’ll get stretched and bent more than you ever thought possible and the masseuse will use various body parts to get all your knots out (including knees and elbows).

Definitely a different type of experience than the massages I’m used to!

I recommend going for the 60 minutes Thai massage to start. Try to get there before noon – otherwise, the slots for a massage might have been booked up if you are there during a popular season.

4. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

The next temple is right across Wat Pho, on the other side of the Praya Chao river. Fun fact – you’ll most likely be taking a boat to cross the river! Simply make your way Tha Thien and catch the Chao Praya River Boat Express.

It will only cost you 15 Baht and runs frequently from 6 AM to  8 PM. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi for a 15 minutes ride but it would be silly since you’ll have to go around the river and cross via a bridge. So please take the boat if you can!

Wat Arun received its name from the Hindu god Aruna, which represents dawn or the rising sun. The temple can be recognized from its distinctive spires (also known as prang) and you can climb the stairs around one of Wat Arun’s tall steepas to be rewarded with one of the best views in Bangkok.

5. Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour

During your time in Bangkok, you might have noticed the three-wheeled open-air motorized vehicle, which exterior is painted in multiple bright colors. Those vehicles are called Tuk Tuks, and are a popular method of transportation for both locals and tourists alike.

Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour is a great way to check out the city! The tour will take you through some of Bangkok’s temples, some of which you might have seen during the day, but these temples are beautiful at night too, and looked completely different!

This tour also doubles as your dinner plan as they’ll also take you to food markets to sample Thai delicacies and to the oh-so famous Pad Thai place. The Tuk Tuk tour will run until 10 or 11 pm depending on the start time you chose. Read reviews, check availability, and book tour here.

6. Bangkok’s Chinatown

If you still have energy after all the day’s activities, make your way to Bangkok’s Chinatown. In the 1800s, there was an influx of immigration to Thailand from Southern China, who originally settled near the Chao Praya river. They were relocated to the current location due to the building of the Grand Palace.

Fast forward to the present day, Chinatown is one of the most vibrant locations in all of Bangkok, where you can do some shopping at Sampang Lane, eat more street food at Yaowarat, or chill with some Chang beer at the Grand China Princess Hotel rooftop bar.

Phew- that was an utterly exhausting day. But face it – if you’ve only got 2 days in Bangkok, you should really make the most of it! Save the relaxation for later!

Day 2: Floating Market and Muay Thai Fight

1. Floating Market Half-Day Trip (Damnoen Saduak)

Didn’t think you’d be leaving the city during your 2 days in Bangkok, now did you?! Any Bangkok itinerary should most definitely include the Floating Market, and although there are a few to choose from, I visited the Damnoen Saduak market and loved it!

We found great photo opportunities around every corner, wonderful food (OMG the coconut ice cream), and an insight into a very different way of life.  

We opted to take an organized group tour (as many do), and were picked up at 7am to ensure an early morning start in order to avoid the heat and catch the market at its liveliest (you’ll be back by early afternoon). Make sure to barter when buying anything! // BOOK TOUR HERE

2. Jim Thompson House

Jim Thompson is an American architect who is mostly known for reviving the Thai silk industry in the 1950s-60s. He relocated to Bangkok in 1948 and aside of being a major player in the silk industry, he also became a prominent collector of the South East Asian art.

In 1958, he began the process of building what is now known as the Jim Thompson House, which he originally planned to live in as well as to house his big art collection. The house was built using various wood and recycled structures from all over Thailand, including Ayutthaya.

However, Jim Thompson mysteriously disappeared in 1967 during a vacation to Cameroon Highlands in Malaysia and was never heard from again. Nowadays, the Jim Thompson House has become a museum for his art collection as well as the stunning architecture.

Visitors can go inside the house, follow a tour, and learn about the silk industry in Thailand. You can also chill in the restaurant within the house complex afterwards! It’s a great way to wind down from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

3. Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mountain)

Once you’re back from the Floating Market and have reveled in all things Jim Thompson, if you still have energy, go check out Wat Saket in the late afternoon/early evening.

Being one of my favorite stops on our trip (yes, really), it’d be a crime to hide it from all of you, my lovely Bangkok travel blog readers (obviously I want you to have the best time possible, duh).

As noted, this temple was by far one of my favorites in Bangkok, as we visited during sunset and were blessed with the most gorgeous views of the city and temple itself. And at only 20 baht, it’d be an absolute shame to miss this spot.

Note that visiting DOES in fact involve a decent amount of uphill stairs, but you’ll be greeted by a memorable panoramic view of Bangkok city from the top.

If you need to take a mini break from the stairs, there’s a small cafe/coffee shop to rest your legs (but in all reality, it ain’t really all that bad).

4. Muay Thai Fight

This wouldn’t a complete Bangkok itinerary without mention of the traditional Muay Thai kickboxing fight! Muay Thai literally means “Thai Boxing”, a combat sport that is popular as a form of exercise around the world.

Unlike the type of boxing we know in the US, Muay Thai does not only use fists, but it is known as the “art of eight limbs”, characterized by the combined use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Ouch!

Fights occur at Rajadamnern Stadium on select nights, and last around 3 hours or so. We chose not to stay for the entire duration, as we were kinda done after an hour and a half or so.

Note that we bought our tickets online ahead of time to ensure availability but am pretty sure you can buy tickets at the door. // BUY ADVANCE TICKETS HERE

5. Khao San Road

After the fight, make your way to Khao San Road, known as a famous backpacker district in Bangkok. The 1-km long strip is lined up with budget hostels and mid-range accommodations, as well as street food and shopping. Make sure to pick up any last minute souvenirs at Thanon Khao San Market.

While the scene most definitely isn’t for everyone, even just a short stroll will introduce you to all the riff raff of Khao San Road (think alcohol buckets, flickering neon signs, insects for sale, and more). Don’t leave without getting a foot massage at Charlies; the absolute best after a long day of exploring Bangkok.

And just like that, your two days in Bangkok is already over. But wait, there’s more if you’ve got an extra day or so! Keep on reading, friends!

EXTRA! Day 3: Take a Day Trip outside Bangkok

If you find yourself in Bangkok for more than two days, don’t limit yourself to just the city! From ruins, learning about World War II history, 7 tiered waterfalls (yup, you read that right), and even a famous beach town, there’s plenty to do right outside the bustling capital city.

Here are some of the most popular day trips you can take from Bangkok, complete with recommended tours to making living easy:

1. Ayutthaya – Ruins of an Ancient City

Ayutthaya holds a rich history of the Thai kingdom – it was the former capital of Siam (ancient name for Thailand) in the 14th century, before being destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century. Nowadays, the ruins of the city are a popular destination for a day trip from Bangkok, and has even earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991.

You can expect to marvel at grand monasteries, prangs (spire towers), and the Buddha head in the root of a large tree, a famous visual across Thailand.

• Distance from Bangkok: 81km North of Bangkok (1hr 10mins drive)
• How to get there from Bangkok: Taxi, Train, Minivan Bus, or Public Bus
• Recommended Ayutthaya Tour from Bangkok: Ayutthaya Day Tour by Bus & Boat

2. Kanchanaburi – River Bridge and Death Railway

If you’re a World War II junkie, or just love history in general, you’ll be head over heels for Kanchanaburi. As you’ve probably figured out, Kanchanaburi is most famous for it’s impressive World War II history, most notably from the building of Death Railway.

It’s dark name was given due to being built under Japanese occupation using prisoners of war labor, and many of these prisoners died due to diseases or accidents associated with the railway.

But aside from the dark past, the city offers plenty of cultural activities, beautiful temples, and 7-tiered waterfalls you can visit. A perfect day trip from Bangkok, if you ask me!

• Distance from Bangkok: 144km North West of Bangkok (2hr 30mins drive)
• How to get there from Bangkok: Taxi, Train, Minivan Bus, or Public Bus
• Recommended Kanchanaburi Tours from Bangkok:
  • River Kwai & Death Railway – For the history buff, it takes you through most of the World War II sites.
  • Kanchanaburi Tour, Railway & Floating Markets – If you didn’t have time to visit the floating markets during your first two days in Bangkok, you can visit one on this day trip, combined with Kanchanaburi!
  • Erawan Waterfall & Kanchanaburi Highlights – For nature lovers, this tour will take you to Erawan Waterfall as well as highlights of the town. This is the one I’d pick if I were to choose between these 3 options (I’m an absolute sucker for waterfalls and all things nature).

3. Pattaya – Beach Town

Aren’t planning to head to the Thai islands before/after your trip to Bangkok?! At least head out to Pattaya for a day to witness first hand Thailand’s famous white sand beach. Pattaya is a small town located in the eastern gulf coast of Thailand, south of Bangkok, which used to be a quiet fishing village back in the 1960s. These days, Pattaya is lined with beach resorts and water sport activities – don’t miss out on the fun!

• Distance from Bangkok: 150km South of Bangkok (2hr drive)
• How to get there from Bangkok: Taxi, Train, Minivan Bus, or Public Bus
• Recommended Pattaya Tour from Bangkok: Day Trip to Pattaya City & Koh Larn Island

So there you have it – the perfect 2 day Bangkok itinerary (in my opinion, anyways!) Will you be following these 2 days in Bangkok on your visit?!

Psst: This post was written in collaboration with Melissa from GirlEatWorld, who’s been to Bangkok more times than I can count!

The post 2 Days in Bangkok, Thailand: A (Super) Comprehensive Bangkok Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

I just returned home from my first ever 2 weeks in Thailand and can not wait to share all the tips I’ve learned! Having only been to Asia once before (on a 10 day trip to Japan – which was downright AWESOME), I couldn’t wait to get back on Asian soil.

If shiny golden temples, $5 foot massages, mango smoothies, and stunning beaches amongst towering limestone cliffs are your thing, I can guarantee that you’ll love Thailand just as much as I did. My only regret- not staying longer, and not going sooner!

However, even with our limited time, we really did SO much during our two weeks in Thailand, and I’m incredibly pleased with how our entire trip went. I carefully planned this entire two week Thailand itinerary long before take off, and we followed it pretty much to a T! The few changes/spontaneity to our original plans are included below because they are just too good to miss! And you might as well learn from our trip!

** You can alter this itinerary quite easily if you’ve only got 10 days in Thailand (more about that later on).

But first, a pre-travel guide to Thailand to learn a bit about the country and what to expect when you’re there.

Pre-Travel Guide to Thailand

Main Regions Visited on This Itinerary:

• Bangkok
• Chiang Mai
• Andaman Sea (Krabi and Koh Phi Phi)

Where is Thailand you ask? The country is located in Southeast Asia sharing borders with Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

This itinerary starts in Bangkok (which is where most international travelers arrive in the country), heads up north to Chiang Mai, and then even further south to the Thai Islands on the west coast in the Andaman Sea. We chose to fly from region to region, as this saved us lots of time considering we only had a short two weeks in Thailand. The country is large but not too large, making it possible to visit three (if not four) areas during your two weeks.

When to visit Thailand:

Before planning a trip to Thailand, it’s important to understand its weather patterns. Thailand experiences two distinct seasons, the dry season (December to May) and the rainy season (May to November).

If you’re looking for comfortable temperatures and little to no rain, I highly suggest you visit during the dry season, which is actually Thailand’s winter. Don’t be put off by “winter”, as the temperatures are still in the 80s almost every day!

Although this seems ridiculously uncomplicated, when planning a trip to southern Thailand and the islands, different islands are best weather wise at different times. The islands on this itinerary (Krabi and Koh Phi Phi) are located in the Andaman Sea, with the optimum visiting time during December and January.

Note that the popular islands of Phuket and Koh Lanta are also located in this area. Thailand’s eastern side, with island in the Gulf of Thailand, including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, are best visited from the end of January until mid March. However, although dry season is known to be obviously dry, short and torrential bursts of rain are possible, as with any tropical destination.

The short answer? Just make sure to avoid monsoon season (May to November), and you’ll find many warm (or hot) and sunny days.

In Thailand during New Year’s? I highly suggest you cater your Thailand itinerary to be in Krabi during New Year’s Eve, like we were able to do!  We were amazed with the lanterns and fireworks on the beach, and couldn’t have imagined a better way to ring in the New Year.

Health and Safety:

If you’re coming from the USA, you’ll need to get a few vaccines prior to traveling to Thailand. Recommended shots from the CDC include typhoid, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. In addition, some choose to take daily malaria pills to prevent this mosquito-borne disease, but consult with your doctor. My doctor recommended I take malaria pills since I’m very prone to mosquito bites, but my husbands did not for him.

You cannot drink the water in Thailand, but don’t fret as most hotels provide their guests drinking water free of charge. In addition, you can find bottled water at every restaurant/convenience store for 5-50 baht (10 cents-$1.50 approximately).

Also, use caution when eating any suspicious looking fruits/veggies and meats on the street. During our two weeks in Thailand neither of us thankfully experienced any major stomach issues, but it’s always best to be careful. In addition, you may want to ask your doctor for a prescription of Ciprofloxacin in case of any disturbing stomach issues you may find yourself in.

Visas:

No visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Thailand as long as a valid tourist passport and proof of onward travel is in possession, and you’re traveling to the country for 30 days or less.

How to get to Thailand:

Most international flights arrive in Bangkok, many with layovers in neighboring/nearby countries. Our flight stopped in Taipei, Taiwan, which we decided to make into an extra long layover (17 hours) so we could have ample time to leave the airport and explore the city. PSST- if you’re looking to do the same, here’s our one day in Taipei itinerary (coming soon!)

I like using Skyscanner and Google Flights to check for prices. We chose to fly premium economy (between regular economy and business class), and paid around $2,000 per person round trip from the West Coast USA during one of the busiest times of the year- Christmas and New Years.

If your dates are more flexible you can surely find cheaper airfare, although we did not have this luxury. For reference, I commonly see roundtrip economy flights from San Francisco for around $800, with flights as cheap as $650 occasionally!

Where to Stay in Thailand: (more info on each one throughout itinerary below)

Bangkok: AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Chiang Mai: U Nimman Chiang Mai or U Chiang Mai

Krabi/Ao Nang: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort

Koh Phi Phi: Phi Phi Holiday Resort

How to get around:

You’ll be taking a myriad of public and private transportation during your two weeks in Thailand! My husband and I counted over TEN different modes of transport during our trip, including plane, tuk-tuk, van, shuttle bus, golf-cart, motorcycle, songthaew, long-tail boat, speed boat, metro, Uber, etc.

Uber works in a bunch of places around the country, and rates are normally cheaper than taxis and tuk-tuks. Don’t have Uber yet? It’s super easy to use!

We flew within the country to get around to the main areas which is much faster than any other mode of transportation. We took three inter-country one-way flights: Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Krabi, and Krabi to Bangkok. All were between 1-2 1/2 hours, and each cost roughly $100ish.

WiFi and Staying Connected

Although you will most likely have wifi at your accommodation, it’s a good idea to bring along a pocket-sized personal WiFi hotspot, to keep you connected during your time in Thailand.

WiFi hotspots are a cost effective option to ensure you can use GPS apps like Google Maps, check your emails, and catch up with friends and family while away. With this portable device, you’ll have WiFi wherever you go (even if your phone doesn’t have service), unlimited internet (on up to five devices at a time!!!), and it’s fast and reliable. At less than $9 a day, this device can’t really be beat.

Note that some cell phone plans allow for international use, but many of these are costly. I accidentally turned on my phone service for LESS THAN 2 MINUTES and got charged $150 by my phone carrier! I desperately wished I had a personal WiFi hotspot with me then!

Find more information and plan options here. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED especially when you don’t speak the native language of the country you’re visiting. A true life saver.

What to bring to Thailand:

• Because of its hot, sticky climate, you’ll want light, airy clothing.
• Appropriate clothing for temples: Long pants, shoulder covered shirts, shawls
• Comfy footwear- you’ll be walking ALOT!
• Sandals/bathing suits for the islands
• Personal WiFi Hot Spot Device

And now, what you’ve been waiting for, a complete two week Thailand itinerary!

TWO WEEKS IN THAILAND ITINERARY

Day 0: FLY TO THAILAND!

Fly into Bangkok! You’ll find most international flights to Thailand will fly to Bangkok, which is perfect as it’s the first stop on our two week Thailand itinerary! The flight is long from most parts of the world (18 hours from West Coast USA, and 10-14ish hours from Europe) without many inexpensive direct flights, but I promise you, a trip to Thailand is well worth it!

PART 1: THREE DAYS IN BANGKOK

*Where we stayed in Bangkok: Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel

To make things short and sweet, we loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this hotel. The staff really made our three days in Bangkok so special, and were always willing to answer all our crazy tourist questions, make reservations for us if need be, and refill our glasses with mango smoothies. And oh, that infinity pool was absolutely to die for (which we went in every chance we got!)

Note that the Avani Riverside Bangkok is on the “other side” of the Chao Phraya River, but a free shuttle boat is available every 20 minutes which goes straight to the metro. We didn’t find this location a nuisance at all like we had originally thought, and revelled in being away from all the hustle and bustle of downtown Bangkok. Check prices and reviews here.

What’s the capital of thailand? You guessed it – it’s Bangkok! A perfect start to any 2 week Thailand itinerary!

Day 1: BANGKOK // Relax and Shop

We didn’t fly into Bangkok from Taipei until 2am, and didn’t get to our hotel until 4am, so we didn’t do all too much our first day in Bangkok. We slept in until around 10, relaxed at the (super awesome) infinity pool of our hotel (AVANI Riverside- highly recommended), then did some shopping at Siam Center and happy hour at Red Sky Bar.

If you have a full day (or even half like we did and are up for it), I highly recommend the following itinerary:

1) INFINITY POOL // RELAXATION

Whenever we take a long flight, and in this case, over 18+ hours, I think it’s best to start the trip on a low-key note, as to not overwhelm ourselves (and our poor tired bodies) right away. We found the perfect place to do this just steps from our king-size bed – at the infinity pool of the AVANI Riverside Hotel.

With views overlooking the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok skyline, there was no better way to spend the morning. Well, the pool plus my first mango smoothie of the trip! #yassss

2) Flower market (Pak Khlong Talat)

Although it’s absolutely best to visit either super late at night (midnight to 2am) or super early in the morning (6-7am), you’ll be able to see a myriad of fresh flowers guaranteed any time of day.

And oh yea, the flower market is open 24 hours a day, and is located inside, so no matter the weather (hot and humid or hot and rainy :p), this space is open for business! Skip this spot if you’ll be joining the Bangkok by Night Tuk-Tuk tour the following day!

3) Lumpini Park

Next stop, some relaxation at Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s largest public city park. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some monitor lizards hanging around. Be sure to rest up, as the next destination on Day 1 is busy, busy, busy, and even more chaotic than you could ever imagine! That’s Bangkok for ya!

4) Siam Center/Siam Paragon

Today’s your afternoon to shop til you drop! In this area of Bangkok, you’ll find everything you’d want to buy and more. There are a few different areas, with the more affordable stuff at Siam Center and the luxury, high class goods at Siam Paragon.

I highly encourage you to check out both, even if you only do a bit of window shopping at Siam Paragon – the interior is BEYOND gorgeous, you’ll see what I mean the instant you walk in there! If you’re buying things from the street at Siam Center, remember to always haggle down to roughly half the originally quoted price, and be sure to always question the item’s authenticity.

Hungry? Check out Mango Tango for your first mango sticky rice and mango smoothie! The perfect afternoon pick-me-up! This speciality shop specializes in everything mango, and you’ll find a few locations around Bangkok (we saw another at Asiatique).

5) Central World

Only a few minutes away from Siam Center/Paragon, but a world of a difference.  Here you’ll find your typical clothing stores by local brands (aka it’s a HUGE mall), a huge food court, and tons and tons of massage parlors. Foot massage anyone? It’s easy to get lost in the maze of complexes in this area, so if you don’t have anything special you’re looking for, just wander and take it all in.

6) Happy Hour Drinks at Red Sky Bar

No matter what you do, do not leave Bangkok without a rooftop drink at sunset. And thankfully, there are numerous options to choose from! We decided on and loved Red Sky Bar, located in the Centra Grand Hotel on the 55th floor super close to Siam and Central World.  

We greatly appreciated that there was no strict dress code (we both wore shorts and sandals), as I heard others will turn you down if you aren’t dressed to their standards. We got there about an hour or so before sunset to ensure we got a good seat facing westward to watch the sun go down. And plus – you’ll want to come at this time anyways to take advantage of their happy hour specials from 4-6 daily: buy 1, get 1 free drinks and appetizers.

7) Bangkok Food Tour

If you’re still going strong, consider signing up for a Bangkok Food Tour. We had originally wanted to do this, but silly us waited until the last minute, and it was completely sold out the entire duration of our time in Bangkok. If you go, make sure to tell me how it was!

Where we slept: Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Day 2: BANGKOK // Temples Galore

On today’s busy agenda: the most popular temples in Bangkok! And plus, you can walk to all of them (minus a super short boat ride across the river).

Note #1: Make sure you wear appropriate clothing today. Men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered (with an actual shirt with sleeves, a scarf or shawl will not cut it at the Grand Palace // pants or a long skirt/dress are best to wear on the bottom). Certain temples are more strict than others, but since you’ll be temple hopping today, best to wear clothes that suit them all!

Note #2: On your way to certain temples, you may get stopped and asked if you are headed in that direction and then get told that the temple you’re going is closed. These people are SCAMMERS, do NOT believe them.

They are trying to persuade you to visit different temples with them, bringing you to shops and restaurants in which they get a cut of the proceeds if you buy anything. The scammers told us the Grand Palace was closed and we walked right past them, only to find that the temple was very much open to visitors.

Note #3: “Wat” translates to “temple” in Thai.

Note #4: You can for sure walk around the temples yourselves, but if you’re interested in learning about the history and use for each one, I highly recommend you book a Bangkok temple tour. They’re not expensive, and you’ll actually learn something. And not miss out on the most important spots (like we unfortunately did).

1) Grand Palace AND Wat Phra Kaeo (5 min walk from each other)

Out of all the temples you’ll see in Thailand, the Grand Palace will be the most crowded by far. Therefore, it’s absolutely imperative you visit this sacred site first thing in the morning when they open, at 8:30am (close at 3:30pm). Crowds aside, this place is downright spectacular, and you’ll see more shiny golden structures than ever before.

Wat Phra Kaeo, within the grounds of the Grand Palace, shouldn’t be missed either as it houses the Emerald Buddha! It is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand! The cost, 500 baht per person (roughly ~$15USD) is significantly higher than other temples, but well worth it in my opinion, just make sure you visit early.

2) Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Super impressive, and definitely a temple to add to any three day Bangkok itinerary. Wat Pho is famed for its giant golden reclining Buddha standing at a remarkable 50 feet tall and 150 feet long!

Don’t make our mistake –  we completely missed the reclining Buddha! Make sure you enter the actual building that the reclining buddha is housed in, as it’s this that the temple is most known for. We were so overwhelmed with the glamorous yet immense temple grounds that we completely forgot all about the reclining Buddha until we left!

Book a tour (like this one) if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on any top temple spots!

Note that the temple grounds are open 24 hours, but the temples close around 5:30pm, including the one housing the reclining Buddha. The dress code here is more lenient than at the Grand Palace, and you’ll find free sarongs for women to cover their knees/shoulders if need be. 100 baht per person (~$3USD)

3) Thai Massages at Wat Pho!

After exploring in the morning, head on over to the Massage School and get a half or full hour Thai massage. If you’ve never had a traditional Thai massage and/or don’t know much about it, just know that it’s not your typical soothing, relaxing treatment. You’ll get stretched and bent more than you ever thought possible and the masseuse will use various body parts to get all your knots out (including knees and elbows). Definitely a different type of experience than the massages I’m used to!

I read online that there is commonly a long line to get massages at the massage school within the grounds of Wat Pho, but we did not have to wait at all. Guess it depends on the day, perhaps? Also- we tried making appointments but the workers at the front desk said we didn’t need any.

4) Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Third and last temple of the day! Cross the river by shared taxi boat (a mere 4 baht to do so), and you’ll wind up at another temple, Wat Arun! By this time in the day, you’ll likely be “templed-out”, but I promise you this one is waaaaay less crowded and not as large, so you’ll be in and out in no time! And you’re already pretty far from home – might as well see as many as you can cram in!

If you’ve still got a bit of energy in you, you can climb the stairs around one of Wat Arun’s tall steepas to be rewarded with one of the best views in Bangkok. Come right before sunset and the view will be even better – the Grand Palace across the river against a beautiful Bangkok setting sun! Unfortunately when we visited, climbing the steps were off-limits, and I’m not entirely sure why. Fingers crossed they’re available to climb for you!

*** Depending on whether or not you are able to scale a steepa at Wat Arun, and just how early you started your day, you may have some time before the next activity! We chose to head back to the hotel, relax by the pool, and get ready for the night. No need to eat now because next up in the itinerary includes dinner!

5) Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour (7-11pm) w/Pad Thai dinner

What could be more fun than zipping around Bangkok in a tuk-tuk? We signed up for this tour and visited the Flower Market, two impressive temples (one we had previously visited, which looked entirely different at night, and a completely different one altogether), a local market for some food samples, the most famous Pad Thai restaurant in all of Bangkok, and a few other stops!

It was a long tour and we were definitely tired and ready for bed afterwards, but definitely a highlight of our trip!  // BOOK TOUR HERE (likely to sell out, book in advance)

6) Chinatown

If you’re not utterly exhausted like we were, go for a wander around Chinatown, as it’s super close to the ending of the tuk tuk tour. I had originally put this on our itinerary as I heard Chinatown is not to be missed, but we were still getting over jet lag and I honestly couldn’t keep my eyes open. Your call!

Where we slept: Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel

DAY 3: BANGKOK // Floating Market

1) Floating Market Day Trip

It’s time to get out of Bangkok, but only for a few hours! On this day trip, we visited the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, and it’s the most popular floating market in Thailand for good reason! We found great photo opportunities around every corner, wonderful food (OMG the coconut ice cream), and an insight into a very different way of life.  

We opted to take an organized group tour (as many do), and were picked up at 7am to ensure an early morning start in order to avoid the heat and catch the market at its liveliest. Make sure to barter when buying anything! // BOOK TOUR HERE

*And plus, if you opt for an organized bus tour like we did, you’ll get back to your hotel around 1:30/2pm. This leaves the rest of the afternoon/night open for more exploration!

2) Grand Mount

After some more pool time (yes, the pool was THAT awesome at our hotel) and getting a bite to eat, we made our way to Grand Mount, a temple originally not scheduled into our itinerary. And good thing we came — it ended up being one of our favorites in all of Thailand!

We somehow ended up at Grand Mount at the most perfect time – during sunset – which provided the most gorgeous views of the city and temple itself. At only 20 baht, it’d be an absolute shame to miss this spot. Make sure to add this to any Bangkok itinerary – you won’t be disappointed!

3) Muy Thai Fight

Straight from the Grand Mount we made our way to Rajadamnern Stadium for a traditional Muy Thai fight! Muy Thai fighting is a martial art form originating from you guessed it – Thailand – and is so much more impressive than any boxing or wrestling match in the USA.

These fights incorporate attacks and maneuvers utilizing fists, legs, elbows, and knees, and is absolutely fascinating to watch. The dedication these fighters have to their sport (with many super young, 15 or so!) is absolutely dumbfounding and quite impressive to say the least.

The fight we bought tickets for started at 6:30pm, and while we got there quite promptly at opening, it’s absolutely not necessary if you don’t mind missing the first fight or so. Staying the whole time is not mandatory, as we only stayed for four fights out of nine (we felt like we had had enough by that time).  

When booking tickets, go for the club level seats – they’re the same level as the fighting stage and you’ll be close enough to see the action and take decent photos. Note that we bought our tickets online ahead of time to ensure availability but am pretty sure you can buy tickets at the door. // BUY ADVANCE TICKETS HERE 

4)  Khao San Road

Ready for some partying or late-night strolling? Depending on what type of experience you’re looking for, don’t fret – this area has got it all. Khao San Road is commonly dubbed as the center of the backpacking universe, and that definitely holds true due to holding some of the cheapest accommodation in all of Thailand.

You’ll find more teenagers drinking vodka from buckets (alcohol the Thai way!), vendors selling insects, flickering neon signs, loud dance music, and more mayhem (trust me) than anywhere else in the country.  The scene is definitely not for everyone, but is a hugely popular tourist spot, so expect prices of food and drink to be higher than normal here.

We stayed for about an hour and a half, and that was enough for us. We tried our first roti with nutella and strawberries here, got foot massages at Charlies (the absolute best, and super cheap at 150 baht per ½ hour), and enjoyed watching the interesting characters that passed by.

If you’re looking for something a bit more chill, head to Rambuttri Street, which runs parallel to Khao San Road, with tons of restaurants, higher-class bars, food stalls, and a much calmer group. Despite their super close proximity, they really are a world away. In other words, Rambuttri is Khao San’s more attractive, well behaved brother, but still super fun!

Where we slept: Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel

More Bangkok tips and ideas here!

PART 2: THREE DAYS IN CHIANG MAI

*Where we stayed in Chiang Mai: U Nimman Chiang Mai

While the hotel’s 4 star rating is most definitely well deserved, we felt the U Nimman Chiang Mai didn’t really fit with the rest of the city. It was too modern, too far from the city center, and just felt out of place in general. However, the hotel definitely had it’s positives, with a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the city, complementary over-the-top breakfast buffet each and every morning, and a 5 minute walk to a huge shopping complex.

We didn’t have a negative experience here by any means, just wish we picked something with a bit more Thai character. Unfortunately we waited to book our hotel only weeks before heading to Thailand, and had they been available, would have loved to stay at it’s sister property U Chiang Mai or Shangri-La Hotel – Chiang Mai instead. Don’t make our mistake and book as soon as possible, especially during busy season (November – April). Find more Chiang Mai hotels here.

Next Up, Chiang Mai, the hub of northern Thailand which is home to hundreds of elaborate Buddhist temples, sweet sweet majestic elephants, and oh so much history. You won’t be able to visit all the temples (nor would you want to, you’ll get templed out reallll quick), but just a stroll around throughout the four walls of the city will give you a feel for what Chiang Mai is really about.

So much quieter than Bangkok, and way less people. You’ll absolutely love your time in Chiang Mai.

DAY 4: FLY TO CHIANG MAI and explore the city in the afternoon

1) Fly to Chiang Mai

We picked an early morning flight out of Bangkok in order to have the rest of the day to explore Chiang Mai. The flight takes roughly an hour and a half, so if you choose a flight in the morning like we did, you’ll have a bunch of daylight hours left once you land (and with a tight Thailand itinerary like this one, you need every hour you can get!)

2) Visit the temples and get some lunch

After dropping off your bags at the hotel (we stayed at U Nimman Chiang Mai), set out into the middle of the city to visit a few famous temples! Don’t miss Wat Chiang Mun, Phra Singh Temple, and Wat Chedi Luang, all gorgeous in their own way! And thankfully, you’ll find that these temples (and all of those in Chiang Mai) are so much quieter and way more peaceful than the temples you visited in Bangkok.

Hungry? Check out Chiang Mai’s wonderful cafe scene! We walked over to Woo Cafe for a late lunch of berry smoothies, spicy minced meat, and salad.  The menu contains both traditional Thai and Western items, and is a good fusion between the two.

The ambiance is wonderfully cozy and charming, with leafy greens and fresh flowers lining the space and art lining the walls. And if you have to wait a bit, don’t fret- go check out the art gallery upstairs!

3) Massages at Fah Lanna Spa

After some Chiang Mai exploration, you’ll probably be downright exhausted (we were!) What better than a massage at one of the cities premier massage spas?! We chose to make reservations at Fah Lanna Spa, located within the Old Town, and were glad we did.  With complimentary homemade welcome drinks and a cool towel, you’ll be immediately relaxed even before your treatment starts!

There are a myriad of different treatments you can get here, from facials and mani/pedis to Thai massages and oil reflexology. We went a bit overboard and booked ourselves packages of THREE HOUR MASSAGES each, which in retrospect, was a bit much. Because of that (and the fact that we were already tired from traveling and exploring), we both fell asleep during our massages.

Not the worst that can happen (actually, far from it), but we both felt three hours was a bit too long. I think next time we’ll book a 2 hour massage instead.

After your treatment, you’ll receive some hot ginger tea and a light snack. With free drinks, snacks, and free roundtrip transfers, make sure you book in advance as this place fills up quickly.

Where we slept: U Nimman Chiang Mai

DAY 5: Day Trip to Chiang Rai

Hope last nights massages were relaxing because today’s a tiring day, and a super long one as well. Book a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, and see the White Temple, the Golden Triangle, and even take a short boat ride over to Laos! Bet you didn’t think you’d be visiting another country today!

Some tours visit the Long Neck Karen tribe which we unfortunately missed out on due to last-minute planning on our part. Book early to guarantee your desired tour! Here’s the tour we wished we booked way ahead of time.

You’ll start off the day with a drive through Northern Thailand’s countryside, and finally reach one of the most recognizable structures in Thailand, the White Temple! The stunning Wat Rong Khun (commonly referred to as the White Temple), is absolutely incredible, with it’s attention to detail and impeccably unique architecture.

This artistic masterpiece is covered in a dazzling white color inlaid with mirrored glass; a photographers absolute dream. Beware, the temple is crazy busy, although take your time taking pictures of the entrance as it definitely has the largest wow factor.

The main attraction of Chiang Rai is the White Temple, but on many tours you’ll also get to see the Black Temple, visit the Long Neck Tribes, and possibly even an opium museum. Unfortunately the weather hardly cooperated during our time in Chiang Rai, as I’ve heard the white temple is even more stunning against a clear blue sky (and it actually reflects in the water!)

I guess it’s possible to rent a car and go yourself, but I highly encourage you to book a tour – the drive is exceptionally long and if you aren’t planning on spending the night (which would be difficult on this two week Thailand itinerary), you’ll likely be too drained to drive home. // BOOK TOUR HERE

Where we slept: U Nimman Chiang Mai

DAY 6: Day with the Elephants!

1) Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

You’ve seen those pictures of elephants around the internet, correct? Well you’ll be visiting them today!

There are dozens of elephant camps to choose from, and no two are the same. We chose to visit with Elephant Jungle Sanctuary because Elephant Nature Park was all booked up, so be sure to book way ahead of time if you have a preference (like as soon as you know your dates).

With that being said, our time with Elephant Jungle Sanctuary was still quite possibly my favorite day of our entire two weeks in Thailand!

We fed them bananas and sugar cane, watched them play in the mud, took loads of elephant selfies, and after took a 10 minute walk to the river to wash them up! In total, I’d say we spent about 3 hours interacting with the elephants. The group also learned how to make elephant medicine (a mixture of rice and other foods), which we then fed to them as well. They flapped their ears, curled their long trunks around us looking for snacks, and were free to wander freely.

The baby elephants were so sweet and absolutely adorable – my husband begged a mahoot to bring one home! The staff was knowledgeable, we spent the majority of the day up close and personal with the elephants, and lunch was delicious!

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: When choosing a company to visit the elephants in Chiang Mai (and really anywhere in Thailand), please oh please do your research. Unfortunately, many companies who claim to be ethical still use unethical tactics (such as using chains, shackles, whips, etc) to “train” the elephants.

If a company allows elephant riding, painting, or any other unnatural “tricks”, stay far, far away. During my research, the two companies that I found to be most ethical were Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and Elephant Nature Park. Elephants should be roaming around not free to do what they like.

If you have less time in the area, I would cut something else out to ensure you can spend a full day with the elephants in Chiang Mai.

If you do a full day trip with Elephant Jungle Sanctuary like we did, you’ll arrive back to your accommodation around 3pm. We then checked out the mall near our hotel and found the quirkiest pancake spot – one that makes pancakes out of the shape of your face!

2) Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar opens from 6:00 PM to midnight every day, and is the perfect place to get some dinner. You’ll find a lot of delicious food in and around the Night Bazaar, including Khao Kha Moo, a street stand famous for its pork leg and the “cowboy lady” who works at the stand everyday wearing a cowboy hat! Be sure to look out for Mrs. Pa’s smoothie stand as well!

Where we slept: U Nimman Chiang Mai

DAY 7: CHIANG MAI IN MORNING // FLY TO KRABI IN AFTERNOON

1) What Phra That Doi Suthep in the Morning

You can’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting it’s most magnificent temple! Being short on time, we decided to take an organized tour which also visited the super colorful Hmong village (oh those sugared strawberries were SO good). Located high in the hills above Chiang Mai, you’ll get wildly awesome views of the city itself from Doi Suthep, and don’t miss out on the staircase – with 333 tiled steps to reach the top, it’s something to behold!

Don’t worry, there’s an elevator if don’t want to make the trek up! The whole temple breathes tranquility and peace, being a great last stop during your three days in Chiang Mai. // BOOK TOUR HERE

Note that this temple is about 30-40 minutes away by car up through winding streets, so unless you want to sit in an overpriced uber or a bumpy songthaew (red taxi car) the whole way, I suggest you take a bus tour as well. We also booked an organized tour because we HAD to make our flight and I would have spent hours up there.

2) Fly to Krabi!

Say goodbye to your wonderful three days in Chiang Mai, and get ready for the luxurious Thai islands! We chose to fly from Chiang Mai to Krabi around 4pm and landed around 6:05pm, which was perfect timing for dinner on the beach our first night (hellooo pineapple fried rice)!

Note that it’ll be about 600 baht for private taxi or 150 baht per person for shared van to hotel. You don’t need to book this in advance as they’ll be numerous signs directing you to your preferred method of transport.

Where we slept: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort — HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

PART 3: A WEEK IN THE THAI ISLANDS

Time to do some Thailand island hopping! If you thought the first week on this Thailand itinerary was blow-your-socks-off amazing, get ready for week two! The Thai islands are any beach-lover’s absolute dream, and a place I can see myself going back to time and time again (I have a hard time revisiting places since there’s just so many on my bucket list!).

NOTE: If you’ve only got 10 days in Thailand, I suggest you pick either Krabi/Ao Nang or Koh Phi Phi. However, it’s possible to take a day trip to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi/Ao Nang quite easily, so basing yourself in Krabi may just be the best answer!

THREE DAYS IN KRABI

Note that the southern Thailand town of Krabi is a whole area, with two main spots for visitors to base themselves: Krabi Town or Aonang. We chose to stay in Aonang as it’s the main beach area and a good base for day trips to other islands.

Krabi Town is generally regarded as a transit town, is the administrative center of the area, and boasts no stunning beaches. My tip – stay in Aonang! It’s a bit farther from the airport and missing the Night Market, but it’s worth it to be on the beach, trust me!

*Where we stayed in Krabi/Aonang: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort

I cannot stress enough how much we LOVED this resort, and just looking at the photos has me longing to go back ASAP! Aonang Cliff had one of the best infinity pools I’ve seen, with beautiful views of the limestone cliffs and pristine Andaman Sea. Being only a 5 minute walk to the beach was also a definite highlight as well!

The resort is located on the main street with tons of bars and restaurants around, but thankfully is surprisingly quiet despite its prime location.

There’s even a McDonald’s and 7-11 right next door if you need them! We ate the complimentary breakfast each morning overlooking the mountains and sea before heading out for the day, and it was the perfect way to wake up! I could never have enough dragon fruit and guava juice! Highly recommended.  See reviews and rates here.

DAY 8: BEACH DAY!

If you’re staying in Aonang (and specifically at the Aonang Cliff Beach Resort), getting to the most beautiful beach in the area is super easy! (No one really swims/suntans at Aonang Beach, everyone goes to Railay – it’s that much more scenic).

From the resort, just walk 5-10 minutes to the main Aonang Beach, and catch a long tail boat to West Railay Beach! Note that Railay Beach is only accessible via 15 minute long tail boat ride due to high limestone cliffs cutting off mainland access, but thankfully transfers are only about 150 baht round trip ($5 US) and 10 minutes long.

Be sure to head to West Railay Beach, as you can’t swim on East Railay because of the muddy shores. The east side has no beach really, and it’s just water that comes up to the footpath when the tide is in, and water which recedes really far when the tide is out, leaving a muddy mucky rocky bank behind. In short, go to West Railay Beach and skip the east side.

What to do in West Railay Beach? Rent a kayak, paddle board, or simply just lay in the sun on the powdery-soft sand. Along the beach you’ll find some restaurants, street stalls, and smoothie stands – be sure to get a few mango smoothies (my favorite!) and fresh coconuts! You can also walk to some caves on the other side, but we left that for another day as one of our tours stopped there.

I also enjoyed going shell hunting – I found a bunch of sand dollars which was a huge shock to me!

Any rock climbing enthusiasts out there? Railay is the most famous destination for rock climbing in southern Thailand, so be sure to give it a go once there!

Where we slept: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort — HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

DAY 9: JAMES BOND ISLAND

Next up, a day trip from Aonang to James Bond Island and Hong Island – two absolutely STUNNING islands in the area. Technically, James Bond Island is in Ao Phang Nga National Park in Phuket, but you can definitely do this day trip from Aonang no problem, it just takes a bit longer via speedboat (and with all the gorgeous views, who cares).  

Phang Nga Bay is home to over 100 islands, and you’ll see rocky, limestone outcrops jutting out of the emerald green sea every few seconds. Pure magic. I promise!

James Bond Island: This landmark was made famous due to its starring role in the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. My husband is a long time lover of Bond, so this was exceptionally exciting for him.

Hong Island: We were some of the only ones there, and felt like we were on a secluded beach! Lots of seashells to be found here, and the snorkeling wasn’t half bad either.

With dramatic limestone karst formations, a visit to a floating Muslim fishing village for lunch, snorkeling at Hong Island, a kayak tour of Lot Noi Cave, and some of the most stunning scenery you’ll see all trip, this day trip is 100% recommended.

I recommend booking this tour in advance as there are not as many companies who sail to James Bond Island from Aonang/Krabi. // BOOK TOUR HERE

I’ll let the photos speak for themselves:

After the tour, hang out at the infinity pool at the resort and get dinner on the beach again! An absolute necessity on any Thailand itinerary, especially since the days are HOT and sweaty!

Where we slept: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort — HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

DAY 10: FOUR ISLAND TOUR

Another day out on the water, and this time, to four different islands near Aonang! We booked a tour (very similar tour here) and had a fantastic time taking in the group of islands closest to the coast (you can actually see them on the horizon from the beach in Ao Nang!

The four islands we stopped at Koh Poda, Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Tub, and Koh Mor. If you book the tour we did you’ll also stop at the Phra Nang Cave Beach on the Railay Peninsula which is absolutely STUNNING!

The 4 island tour is known for the perfect white sandy beaches and turquoise water, sand bars, snorkeling, and lunch on the beach. And besides stopping around Chicken Island, we also cruised around the “head” of the island, with the odd rocky outcrop that you guessed it – looks like a chickens head!

You can choose to take either a longtail or a speed boat, with the speed boat option giving you more time on each of the islands, and what we preferred. // BOOK TOUR HERE

Where we slept: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort — HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

THREE DAYS IN KOH PHI PHI

Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi: When it comes to accommodation options on Koh Phi Phi, most people stay in Tonsai as that’s where you’ll find 90% of the hotels and guest houses. People claim the beach is dirty, filled with drunk backpackers, and ridiculously noisy club-goers each and every night.

And because of this, Koh Phi Phi has gotten a bad reputation in the last few years. HOWEVER, there ARE a few resorts on the northern part of the island, which most people never even visit, let alone think to stay.

So, with that being said, we chose to stay on the more private, quiet part of Koh Phi Phi, and it was absolutely fantastic. You won’t find any hostels or cheap hotels here, but if you’re willing to fork over some cash, you’ll be rewarded with a semi-private beach and peace and quiet under the stars at night.

*Where we stayed in Koh Phi Phi: Holiday Inn Resort Koh Phi Phi

When my husband originally suggested we stay at the Holiday Inn, I was skeptical to say the least. He usually prefers posh, upscale hotels, and the Holiday Inn (while a wonderful budget option in most places) is not what comes to mind. HOWEVER, I was 100% wrong. Little did I know that the Holiday Inn brand also includes a few high-class beach-style resorts around the world, and there just so happens to be one on Koh Phi Phi.

To make a long story short, the Holiday Inn Resort Koh Phi Phi blew all our expectations out of the water and then some, and I wish I could stay there for weeks. A few of our favorite things: being upgraded to a villa overlooking the beach, sunset bar for dragon fruit mojitos, the three swimming pools (two of them being infinity pools), and the fact that we felt like we were in the middle of the jungle walking through parts of the resort!

After eating at the restaurant next to the hotel (Chile and Pepper), we ate all our remaining meals there. Promise me you’ll try the banana fritter with coconut jelly! I could have it eaten it numerous times during our three days in Koh Phi Phi, but only discovered this dessert on our last day!

DAY 11: Ferry to Koh Phi Phi

From Ao Nang, it’s best to give yourself a full day to reach Koh Phi Phi, not because it actually takes that long, but because it can be a bit confusing if you decide to do it yourself (if you’re staying on the north part of Phi Phi like we were). Because of this, we opted for transfers directly through the Holiday Inn. While we definitely paid a bit more than if we had booked everything ourselves, the convenience was well worth it to us.

If you do in fact decide to head to Koh Phi Phi yourself and are staying on the northern part of the island, you can take a ferry from Ao Nang to Tonsai Pier (where most of the hotels and guest houses are), and then a pricey longtail boat to  Laem Tong Beach. It’s doable, but didn’t want to have to worry about this with our baggage.

Depending on which route you take (independent group transfer vs. premium private transfer directly through hotel), you’ll have varying amounts of time after check-in. We had a bit of time for swimming, and wandering around the resort before getting dinner on the beach at one of the nearby beach restaurants located to the left of the resort (you can’t miss them).

Where we slept: Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi

DAY 12: Koh Phi Phi – BEACH DAY/pool!/kayak

Today was our chill-out, relax at the pool and beach day, and I highly encourage you to spend at least one day during your two weeks in Thailand to truly do nothing. By this time in our trip we were utterly exhausted, and reveled in having this spare day to bask in the sun and go infinity pool hopping. If you’re at a resort like ours (Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi), you’ll have enough to keep you busy for the full day.

Today’s also a good day to try out Chili and Pepper – our favorite restaurant in Koh Phi Phi. The restaurant is located in a converted tree house run by a local family, and has only 5 tables!  All the food is cooked by the husband and brought out to you by the wife. And if you go at night you’ll see their kids helping out! Everything we tried on the menu was absolutely delicious, and oh so fresh!

Where we slept: Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi

DAY 13: Snorkeling Longtail Boat Trip

I definitely saved the best day trip for last on this Thailand itinerary, and it was one of our favorite days of our entire trip to Thailand!

You can either organize a trip around Phi Phi Leh through the hotel, or hire a longtail boat owner for a private tour of the area. Before dinner one night we stumbled upon longtail boat owner Juan, and instantly booked a six-hour tour with him for the following morning. He picked us up bright and early a few feet from our hotel, and whisked us away to other neighboring islands and bays for the best snorkel spots and towering limestone cliffs around.

We loved having the boat to ourselves and being able to decide how long we wanted in each stop. We cruised along Koh Phi Phi with a custom itinerary, and all the spots Juan helped us pick were even more impressive than the last!

I saw some of the most impressive views of my life on that longtail boat with Juan, and it was by far some of the best snorkeling locations I’ve ever been to. And of course that was the day I decided to leave my GoPro in the hotel room – learn from my mistake and bring it! Highlights included Maya Bay snorkeling, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon (a must!), snacks on Tonsai, and snorkeling in Nui Bay.

Beware of the monkeys though, as they can bite! Be careful with your kiddos!

I highly recommend getting to Maya Bay around 8:30am or earlier, as most boats start coming at 9am. Note that most private longtail boat owners will provide you with life jackets and snorkels, but not fins, water, or snacks. A longtail boat hire for 6 hours should cost you between 1800-2400 baht, and we paid 2000 (~60 USD). You can bargain with the boat owners to find the best price.

Where we slept: Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi

DAY 14: MAKE YOUR WAY BACK TO BANGKOK

If you’ve only got two weeks in Thailand, today’s unfortunately your last day! You most likely booked round trip tickets from Bangkok, so you need to make sure to make your way back before your flight!  

**We booked tickets home for the next morning to be on the safe side, but you could probably make a late night flight if you plan your transfer to Krabi and then flight back to Bangkok correctly.  It did take us almost the whole day to get back to Bangkok, so I highly suggest you do the same.

Instead of getting a private boat back to Krabi directly through the Holiday Inn (like we had done to get there), we hired a longtail boat to take us back to Tonsai pier and then hopped on a midday ferry to Krabi. We then flew back to Bangkok at night and arrived at our hotel in Bangkok around 10pm.

I suspect we could have made it back to Bangkok should we had decided upon the private transfer, but we weren’t in a rush since our flight back home to San Francisco wasn’t until the next day.

Where we slept: Silver Palm Rama Hotel Bangkok

For our last night, we stayed at the Silver Palm Rama Hotel in Bangkok, and couldn’t have picked a better spot. We picked this hotel partially due to it’s close proximity to the airport, and the fact that we got a great deal on it (around $50 USD). The hotel had a wonderful pool area with a delicious breakfast spread for all it’s guests (all complementary) and extra large rooms.

Day 15: FLY HOME!

Get your last pineapple juice and/or mango smoothie and head home! Our flight was midday, so we didn’t really have time to head out into the city, but if you’ve got a much later flight, head back into the city for any things you may have missed at the beginning of your trip, or just relax and lay by the pool to get your last hours of Thailand sun.

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Feel free to share this 14 day Thailand itinerary with a friend, and get started planning your trip!

HAVE YOU BEEN TO THE COUNTRY BEFORE?! WHAT THINGS ON YOUR THAILAND ITINERARY WERE YOUR FAVORITE?!

The post 2 Weeks in Thailand: A First Timers Complete Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.