For sure, 10 days is not a lot of time to explore Thailand, so you need to make it count. This 10-day Thailand itinerary is packed full of activities, but without cramming in too much, so you still get to enjoy visiting this beautiful country. Experience beautiful places like Koh Phi Phi, Railay Beach, Koh Phangan and so much more, and see the best of Thailand in 10 days.
This 10-day Thailand itinerary was written by Victoria from Guide Your Travel.
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The Ultimate 10-Day Thailand Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
Your 10-day Thailand itinerary begins with your arrival in Bangkok, a city that perfectly blends modern architecture and traditional Thai culture and is perfect for celebrating a special occasion. Don’t forget to get some local currency before you start your day to make sure you’ve got enough cash for your time in Thailand.
After settling into your accommodation, your first destination of the day is the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks that has been the heart of Thai royalty since the 18th century. Inside its complex, you’ll find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew, which is considered one of the most important and most popular temples in Thailand. Take your time to wander the palace grounds, which are quite large, so there is a lot to explore. Before visiting the temple, check out my post about what to wear in Thai temples to make sure you’re sticking to the dress code. If you’re interested in learning more about Thai culture, this is a great place to get a local guide to explain more about the intricate details of the architecture.
Head back to your hotel to get some rest and then head to Khao San Road for a fun night out. This famous street is known for its loud bars and backpacker crowd. It’s the perfect place to try some local street food, shop for souvenirs, and mingle with fellow travelers. The energy of Khao San Road, with its blend of Thai culture and international influences, is contagious. If you enjoy nightlife on a budget, this is the place to go. Don’t stay out too late though as you have a busy day of exploring Bangkok ahead of you tomorrow.
Day 2: Wat Pho and Chao Phraya River Boat Tour
After breakfast, you’re starting your second day visiting Bangkok by heading to Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This temple houses one of Thailand’s most impressive Buddha statues, a 46-meter-long figure depicting Buddha entering Nirvana. Wat Pho is also a center for traditional Thai massage and medicine, so if experiencing an authentic massage has been on your Thailand bucket list, this is a great place to do it.
After exploring Wat Pho, it’s time to experience Bangkok from a different perspective with a boat tour on the Chao Phraya River. This river is the lifeblood of Bangkok. A boat ride offers views of the city’s skyline and glimpses into everyday life along the riverbanks. You’ll pass by landmarks such as the Royal Barges Museum and Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which is especially stunning when lit up against the morning or late afternoon sky. You can book your tour online in advance or at a tourist office close to the river, which you’ll find plenty of. Just make sure to haggle and compare prices as tourists are often overcharged.
In the evening, make your way to Asiatique The Riverfront, an open-air mall with a night market vibe. Located along the river, Asiatique combines shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering something for everyone. You can shop for local crafts and fashion, and have dinner at one of the many restaurants offering a range of Thai and international cuisines. Or enjoy a show or a ride on the large Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city. If you went out for drinks on Khao San Road last night you might be tired today, so head to bed early to make sure you’re ready for another busy day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 3: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Jim Thompson House & Bangkok’s Nightlife
Wake up to another beautiful day in Bangkok. If you haven’t already, you need to try some delicious mango sticky rice for breakfast. It’s one of the things Thailand is famous for.
If you happen to be in Bangkok on a weekend, you have to visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world’s largest markets. This sprawling maze of over 8,000 stalls offers everything from vintage clothing and handicrafts to antiques and local street food. And you’ll have plenty of opportunities to shop for souvenirs or presents to take home with you. If your travel dates don’t align with a weekend, you can go to Bangkok’s famous Chinatown instead. Here you’ll find just as many markets and even better street food.
Once you’ve had enough of shopping, it’s time to experience some history. Head to the Jim Thompson House, the former residence of the American businessman and architect who helped revive the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 60s. This beautifully preserved complex of traditional Thai houses is now a museum showcasing Thompson’s collection of Asian art and Thai silk. Take a guided tour to provide insights into his life and the significance of silk in Thai culture.
It’s your last day in Bangkok, so make the most of it and go out for drinks one last time. Head to the Sukhumvit area, known for its diverse range of bars, nightclubs, and rooftop venues. Where Khao San Road is known for backpackers, Sukhumvit is more popular among expats and locals with even more nightlife options. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back rooftop bar with stunning city views, a lively nightclub with international DJs, or a cozy speakeasy-style establishment, Sukhumvit has something for everyone.
Day 4: Discovering Phuket
On day four of your 10-day Thailand itinerary, your journey takes you from the bustling city of Bangkok to the tropical paradise of Phuket, Thailand’s largest island known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. You can either catch a flight, which is usually reasonably cheap, or hop on a long-distance bus down south. The bus takes much longer, but is the cheaper option if you’re on a budget. Take some time to get settled in your hotel in Phuket before heading out for the day to explore the area.
A great way to start is by visiting Patong Beach, the most famous beach in Phuket. Patong is known for its soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beachfront is lined with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, so you can take some time to enjoy and explore. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, trying out some water sports, or simply soaking up the sun and enjoying some cold drinks. Stay until sunset, which never disappoints in Phuket if the weather is nice.
Head back to your hotel to get ready for the evening and go for dinner on Bangla Road, the heart of Phuket’s nightlife. This bustling street comes alive at night with neon lights, music, street performances, and a plethora of bars and nightclubs. Just make sure you don’t drink too much on your night out as you’ll be going on an exciting day trip tomorrow.
Day 5: Day trip to the Phi Phi Islands
Get up bright and early to go on a fun day trip to the famous Phi Phi islands. This is a very common day trip from Phuket, so you can book it a tourist offices all over town or at your accommodation. You can also compare tours online to make sure you’re getting a good price.
Once you reach the Phi Phi Islands, you’ll be greeted by the sight of crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush greenery. The islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Thailand, with beautiful marine life and coral reefs. You’ll head on an exciting boat tour around the islands, either with a group of other travelers or on a private tour, depending on your budget.
The most popular stop is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Surrounded by towering cliffs on three sides, this bay has a pristine beach and is a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. Although it can be crowded, the beauty of Maya Bay is undeniable. You’ll also be taken to the famous Monkey Beach, known for its friendly monkey inhabitants, and the Viking Cave, with its fascinating and unusual history. In the early evening, you’ll take the speed boat back to Phuket to rest for the rest of the night after such an exciting day.
Day 6: Exploring Old Phuket Town, Karon Viewpoint & Promthep Cape
Day six on your 10-day Thailand itinerary is all about exploring actual Phuket since you were busy on your day trip to Koh Phi Phi all day yesterday. The streets of Old Phuket Town are very pretty and have plenty of history to offer. Consider getting a local guide to show you around or maybe join a walking tour if you want to learn even more. There are plenty of little shops, cafes, and restaurants to try, so factor in some time to wander through the narrow lanes. If you still need to get some souvenir shopping done this is the time.
Once you’ve soaked in the cultural beauty of Old Phuket Town, go to either Karon Viewpoint or Promthep Cape for an entirely different experience. Karon Viewpoint, also known as the Three Beaches Hill, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon beaches, where you can admire the stunning shades of blue that stretch as far as the eye can see. Promthep Cape is a beautiful spot to enjoy the spectacular sunset over the Andaman Sea. It’s an unforgettable sight and the perfect way to conclude your second day in Phuket.
Day 7: Beach Time & Night Market in Krabi
On your seventh day in Thailand, you transition from the lively island of Phuket to the more tranquil and picturesque Krabi. The best way to get there is by long-distance bus, but you can also fly if you want to save some time.
Get some rest at your hotel and then go to Ao Nang Beach, one of the main tourist areas close to Krabi. You can also stay directly in this area, which is highly recommended for the best selection of hotels, bars, and restaurants. Ao Nang also has the best beach and is a great place to enjoy a few days in the sun. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear blue waters, or enjoying a Thai massage by the sea. As the sun starts to set, go for a walk along the Ao Nang Beach promenade where you can grab a drink and take in the sunset views.
In the evening, explore the famous Ao Nang Night Market. This is a great place to experience the local culture, shop for souvenirs, and try a variety of Thai dishes and snacks. The food selection here is incredible and prices are affordable, so you won’t have to break the bank. Go out for a few drinks at one of Ao Nang’s bars along the beach or head back to your hotel for an early night.
Day 8: Snorkeling boat tour to the Four Islands
Your eighth day in Thailand is dedicated to one of Krabi’s most popular activities – island hopping. This region is famous for its archipelago of picturesque islands, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. Start your day early by joining an island hopping tour, which typically includes visits to several islands and even includes lunch, water, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
Some of the places you’ll see along the way include Poda Island, with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters; Chicken Island, named for its unique rock formation that resembles a chicken’s head and neck, and Tup Island, famous for the sandbar that emerges during low tide, connecting it to Chicken Island.
You’ll get to snorkel multiple times throughout the day and might be lucky enough to spot marine life such as clownfish, reef sharks, or even sea turtles. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the islands, where you can relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Lunch is freshly prepared by the boat crew and usually includes fried rice, tropical fruits, and even fresh seafood depending on the tour. As the tour concludes, return to Krabi in the late afternoon. Spend your evening relaxing after a day full of sun and sea, perhaps enjoying a casual dinner by the beach or exploring more of Krabi’s nightlife.
Day 9: Heading to Koh Phangan
It’s day nine of your 10-day Thailand itinerary, and you’re arriving on the enchanting island of Koh Phangan, famous for its full moon parties. But the island is more than just a nightlife hotspot, and you might just be surprised how beautiful it is.
Begin your day at Haad Rin Beach, which transforms into the location of the Full Moon Party once per month. On any other day, it’s a beautiful and peaceful spot with soft white sand and clear blue waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Wander along the beach and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, perhaps trying some beachside Thai food or a fresh coconut from one of the local vendors.
In the afternoon, you should visit Thong Nai Pan, a more secluded area comprising two stunning bays: Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. These beaches are known for their laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, and soft sandy shores, surrounded by lush green hills. They offer a quieter beach experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
As the evening sets in, explore the island’s vibrant yet chill nightlife. Koh Phangan’s nightlife is diverse, ranging from beach bars with fire shows and live music to more tranquil spots where you can relax under the stars. About once per week, there are larger parties like the Full Moon, Dark Moon, or Half Moon events, which include big stages with DJs and plenty of glow-in-the-dark paint.
Day 10: Visiting waterfalls & relaxing in Koh Phangan
It’s the final day on your 10-day Thailand itinerary and time to reflect on all the fun adventures you had while you enjoy one last day of activities. This day is all about experiencing the beauty of Koh Phangan, as you head to some of the island’s famous waterfalls. Sadet Waterfall is a great place to start and perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. It’s usually not too crowded but if you visit in the morning, the chances of getting to enjoy it without too many other tourists will be highest. Another option is the Phaeng Waterfall, which provides a scenic hike and stunning views of the island.
After your waterfall adventure, take some time to relax at one of Koh Phangan’s more secluded beaches. Haad Yuan or Haad Salad are excellent choices for their calm, crystal-clear waters and beautiful, peaceful settings – perfect for reflection and relaxation on your last day. Have dinner at Koh Phangan’s night market to celebrate the end of your 10-day Thailand itinerary and prepare for your boat ride back to the mainland the next day. If you have more time, I can recommend spending at least 3 days in Chiang Mai as well!
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