Thailand Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Bangkok Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Bangkok and settle into your hotel. Take a short walk around the vibrant Siam Square to get a feel for the city buzz.

Afternoon: Visit the majestic Grand Palace and the nearby Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), immersing yourself in Thailand’s rich history and architecture.

Evening: Enjoy dinner and sunset views at a riverside restaurant by the Chao Phraya River, followed by a stroll through the lively Asiatique Night Market.

Day 2: Cultural Highlights & Local Markets

Morning: Explore the beautiful Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and then head to the creative hub of Chatuchak Weekend Market (if the weekend) or Pratunam Market on weekdays.

Afternoon: Visit the Jim Thompson House to learn about traditional Thai silk and architecture, followed by a relaxing stroll through Lumphini Park.

Evening: Experience authentic Thai cuisine during a street food tour in the Chinatown (Yaowarat) district, sampling delicacies from bustling food stalls.

Day 3: Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Morning: Take a guided trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, exploring its UNESCO World Heritage ruins including Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet.

Afternoon: Continue sightseeing with a visit to Bang Pa-In Royal Palace and enjoy a local lunch overlooking the river.

Evening: Return to Bangkok and relax with a traditional Thai massage at a reputable spa near your hotel.

Day 4: Chiang Mai Adventure

Morning: Fly or take an early train to Chiang Mai. Visit Doi Suthep Temple located on the mountain overlooking the city.

Afternoon: Explore the Chiang Mai Old City, including ancient temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.

Evening: Browse and shop at the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, tasting northern Thai street food specialties.

Day 5: Elephant Sanctuary & Cultural Experience

Morning: Spend the morning at an ethical Elephant Sanctuary, learning about and caring for these gentle giants.

Afternoon: Participate in a traditional Thai cooking class where you'll prepare authentic dishes to enjoy for lunch.

Evening: Attend a cultural show featuring traditional dance and music at a local theater or dinner venue.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: 3-4 hours, 500 THB
• Chao Phraya River Dinner & Asiatique Market: 3 hours, 600 THB
• Wat Arun & Markets: 4 hours, 300 THB
• Jim Thompson House & Lumphini Park: 3 hours, 200 THB
• Street Food Tour in Chinatown: 2-3 hours, 400 THB
• Ayutthaya Day Trip (including entrance fees): Full day, 1,200 THB
• Thai Massage: 1-2 hours, 500 THB
• Flight to Chiang Mai (one-way): 1.5 hours, 1,200 THB
• Doi Suthep Temple & Old City Temples: 4 hours, 300 THB
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: 2 hours, 300 THB (shopping budget)
• Elephant Sanctuary visit: Half day, 2,000 THB
• Cooking Class: 3 hours, 1,000 THB
• Cultural Show: 2 hours, 700 THB

Total Estimated Cost: 8,000 THB

Tips

For travelers looking to extend the trip, consider adding island hopping days in Phuket or Koh Samui to enjoy Thailand’s famous beaches and water activities. Those short on time can reduce the itinerary by skipping the Ayutthaya day trip or focusing solely on Bangkok and Chiang Mai highlights. Combining travel days efficiently and selecting night markets over multiple meals is another way to save time and experience local culture.