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Bangkok, Thailand
Start your journey in the buzzing capital. Explore the Grand Palace, wander Khao San Road, and feast on street food at Yaowarat (Chinatown). The MRT and BTS Skytrain make getting around easy.
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Ayutthaya, Thailand
A short train ride from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is Thailand's ancient capital with stunning temple ruins. Rent a bicycle to explore Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Don't miss the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
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Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand's cultural capital in the north is perfect for a long stay. Visit Doi Suthep temple, take a Thai cooking class, and explore the Sunday Walking Street market. The Old City moat area is full of cafes, temples, and great street food.
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Chiang Rai, Thailand
Visit the surreal White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple for incredible photo opportunities. The Golden Triangle area nearby marks the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Try local Shan-influenced cuisine in the relaxed night bazaar.
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Pai, Thailand
This laid-back mountain town is beloved by backpackers and digital nomads. Enjoy hot springs, waterfalls, and stunning valley viewpoints around town. The walking street comes alive at night with food stalls and live music.
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Sukhothai, Thailand
Home to Thailand's first kingdom, the Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rent a bicycle and spend a day cycling among ancient Buddhist temples and lotus-filled ponds. The atmosphere is peaceful and far less touristy than Ayutthaya.
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Khao Yai, Thailand
Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand's most biodiverse areas, home to elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. Take guided jungle treks and watch for wildlife at dusk near the park's meadows. The nearby Pak Chong town has plenty of guesthouses and restaurants.
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Koh Samui, Thailand
Thailand's second-largest island offers beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Chaweng Beach is the liveliest strip while Maenam is quieter and more relaxed. Don't miss the famous Big Buddha statue and fresh seafood at the fisherman's villages.
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Koh Phangan, Thailand
Famous for the Full Moon Party on Haad Rin beach, Koh Phangan also has serene northern beaches like Bottle Beach for those seeking quiet. The island has a great yoga and wellness scene centered around Srithanu village. Explore by scooter to find hidden waterfalls and viewpoints.
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Koh Tao, Thailand
One of the world's best and most affordable places to get PADI dive certified. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful coral. Sairee Beach has a great strip of beach bars and restaurants for evenings after diving.
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Krabi, Thailand
Krabi's dramatic limestone cliffs rising from the Andaman Sea make it one of Thailand's most iconic destinations. Take a longtail boat to Railay Beach, only accessible by water, and go rock climbing on the famous crags. Ao Nang town is a convenient base with great seafood restaurants along the beachfront.
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Koh Lanta, Thailand
A more relaxed alternative to the busier islands, Koh Lanta has long sandy beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Old Town on the east coast has charming wooden shophouses and great seafood restaurants on stilts over the water. It's an ideal spot for slow travel, sunsets, and exploring the jungle interior.
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Phuket, Thailand
Thailand's largest island has something for everyone, from the lively Patong Beach nightlife to the charming Sino-Portuguese architecture of Phuket Old Town. Take a day trip to the stunning Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay's sea caves and floating villages. The Sunday Walking Street in Old Town is a must for local food and crafts.
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Bangkok, Thailand
Return to Bangkok for your final week to do everything you missed at the start. Explore the trendy Ari and Thonglor neighborhoods, visit the Jim Thompson House, and splurge on a rooftop bar dinner. Stock up on souvenirs at Chatuchak Weekend Market before your departure.