7-Day Itinerary in Thailand

1. Tuesday July 18: Bangkok
   20 minutes (12 miles) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

   Spend the morning exploring the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. In the afternoon, visit Wat Arun and take a scenic boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife at Khao San Road.

   • Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: 500 THB, 2-3 hours
   • Wat Arun: 50 THB, 1-2 hours
   • Boat ride along Chao Phraya River: 50 THB, 1 hour
   • Khao San Road: Free, evening
2. Wednesday July 19: Chiang Mai
   1 hour 15 minutes (421 miles) from Bangkok

   Spend the morning exploring the historic temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. In the afternoon, visit the Elephant Nature Park and interact with rescued elephants. In the evening, explore the bustling Night Bazaar for shopping and local delicacies.

   • Wat Phra Singh: 50 THB, 1-2 hours
   • Wat Chedi Luang: 40 THB, 1-2 hours
   • Elephant Nature Park: 2500 THB, 4-5 hours
   • Night Bazaar: Free, evening
3. Thursday July 20: Phuket
   1 hour 30 minutes (41 miles) from Chiang Mai

   Start the day by visiting the Big Buddha for panoramic views of Phuket. In the afternoon, relax at Patong Beach and enjoy water activities. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife at Bangla Road.

   • Big Buddha: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Patong Beach: Free, afternoon
   • Bangla Road: Free, evening
4. Friday July 21: Krabi
   2 hours 30 minutes (108 miles) from Phuket

   Take a morning boat tour to the stunning Phi Phi Islands for snorkeling and swimming. In the afternoon, visit Railay Beach and go rock climbing or kayaking. In the evening, relax at Ao Nang Beach and enjoy seafood dinner by the beach.

   • Phi Phi Islands boat tour: 1500 THB, 6-8 hours
   • Railay Beach: Free, afternoon
   • Ao Nang Beach: Free, evening
5. Saturday July 22: Ayutthaya
   2 hours (53 miles) from Krabi

   Explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Thai dinner and cultural show.

   • Ayutthaya Historical Park: 50 THB, 2-3 hours
   • Boat ride along Chao Phraya River: 50 THB, 1 hour
   • Traditional Thai dinner and cultural show: 1000 THB, evening
6. Sunday July 23: Koh Samui
   1 hour 30 minutes (55 miles) from Ayutthaya

   Start the day by exploring the pristine beaches of Chaweng and Lamai. In the afternoon, visit Na Muang Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim. In the evening, take a stroll along Fisherman's Village and sample local street food.

   • Chaweng Beach: Free, morning
   • Lamai Beach: Free, morning
   • Na Muang Waterfall: 100 THB, afternoon
   • Fisherman's Village: Free, evening
7. Monday July 24: Pattaya
   1 hour 30 minutes (222 miles) from Koh Samui

   Spend the morning exploring the unique Sanctuary of Truth, a wooden temple overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. In the afternoon, visit Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and enjoy cultural shows. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife at Walking Street.

   • Sanctuary of Truth: 500 THB, 2-3 hours
   • Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: 500 THB, 2-3 hours
   • Walking Street: Free, evening

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the ancient city of Sukhothai, the beautiful islands of Koh Phi Phi, or the cultural hub of Pai. For day trips, you can explore the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak or take a tour to the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai. To make the most of your money, haggle at local markets, try delicious street food, and consider booking activities in advance to secure better deals.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices.