7-Day Thailand Cultural and Nature Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Introduction to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on May 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Start your day with a traditional Thai breakfast at On Lok Yun, a popular 24-hour diner serving classic dishes like jok (rice porridge) and strong Thai coffee.
THB50, 1h

9:45am

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore the iconic Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a symbol of Thailand’s rich history and architecture. Open 8:30am-3:30pm.
THB500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Thip Samai Pad Thai

Taste arguably the best Pad Thai in Bangkok at Thip Samai, known for its fresh ingredients and fiery flavour.
THB100, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Wat Arun

Cross the river and visit Wat Arun, the stunning Temple of Dawn, notable for its colourful porcelain-encrusted spires. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
THB50, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Khao San Road

Walk around Khao San Road to experience the lively atmosphere, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy street performances.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai

Dine at the Michelin-starred street food stall Raan Jay Fai famous for its crab omelette and seafood dishes. It’s recommended to book or arrive early.
THB1000+, 1.5h

Day 2: Historical Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya

Take an early train or private vehicle from Bangkok to the historic city of Ayutthaya, approximately 1.5 hours north.
THB50-THB150, 1.5h

9:00am

Breakfast at Malakor Kitchen and Cafe

Enjoy light breakfast and coffee at this local café known for its relaxed garden setting.
THB100, 1h

10:00am

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive temple ruins such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. The park opens around 8:00am.
THB50, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Ban U Thong Restaurant

Relish authentic Thai-Isan dishes in a traditional setting near the river.
THB200, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Tour the summer palace with beautiful gardens and mix of Thai and European architecture. Open 8:00am-4:30pm.
THB100, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Bangkok

Head back to Bangkok to prepare for your flight to northern Thailand the following day.
THB150, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Supanniga Eating Room

Enjoy fine dining with authentic Eastern Thai recipes in a stylish atmosphere.
THB800, 1.5h

Day 3: Chiang Mai Culture

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Fly to Chiang Mai

Take a morning flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (approximately 1 hour).
THB1000, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at The Barn: Eatery Design

Start your day with healthy, Western-style breakfast in a trendy setting.
THB200, 1h

9:45am

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A must-see temple on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai with panoramic views. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
THB50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Sample the famous Northern Thai curry noodle soup, Khao Soi, at a beloved local spot.
THB60, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Old City Temples

Visit Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh to admire Lanna architecture and history.
THB40, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Nimmanhaemin Road

Explore the hipster neighbourhood full of charming cafés, boutique shops, and street art.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Dash! Teak House

Dine in a traditional teak house setting boasting authentic Northern Thai cuisine and live music.
THB400, 1.5h

Day 4: Nature and Elephant Experience

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ristr8to

Enjoy expertly crafted coffee and light breakfast items at this award-winning café.
THB150, 1h

9:00am

Elephant Nature Park Visit

Spend the day at this ethical elephant sanctuary helping to feed and bathe rescued elephants. Prior booking required. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
THB2500, 6h

4:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local night markets

Return to the city and take some time to rest or visit the Saturday Night Market if your visit coincides.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Riverside

Enjoy river views alongside Thai and western dishes in an atmospheric setting.
THB600, 1.5h

Day 5: Travel to Pai

Pai, Thailand on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Diamond Breakfast Club

Start your day with fresh juices and organic breakfast items.
THB250, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Pai by minivan

Take the scenic 3-hour minivan journey through mountainous roads to Pai.
THB150, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pai Style Cuisine

Indulge in authentic Northern Thai dishes in a relaxed setting.
THB150, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Pai Canyon

Walk along the dramatic ridges and viewpoints for stunning sunset vistas. Best visited mid-afternoon.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Relax at Tha Pai Hot Springs

Unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by nature. Open until 8:00pm.
THB300, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Charlie & Lek's

Casual but popular spot offering Thai and western foods in the town centre.
THB200, 1.5h

Day 6: Pai Countryside

Pai, Thailand on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Om Garden Café

Enjoy organic coffee and healthy breakfast in a tranquil garden setting.
THB200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Mo Paeng Waterfall

Hike and swim in this refreshing waterfall area set in lush forest.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nong Beer Restaurant

Taste more local dishes including spicy salads and fried chicken.
THB150, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Santichon Village (Yunnan Chinese Village)

Experience traditional Yunnanese culture, tea tasting and crafts.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax in the Pai Walking Street Market

Browse handicrafts, street food, and local products.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Earth Tone

Vegetarian-friendly café offering colourful bowls and smoothies.
THB250, 1.5h

Day 7: Return to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Pai Café

Relax with a simple breakfast before departure.
THB150, 1h

8:30am

Travel back to Chiang Mai

Minivan or private transfer back to Chiang Mai airport (3 hours).
THB150, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch near Chiang Mai Airport

Grab a quick meal at a local restaurant or airport café before your flight.
THB150, 1h

1:30pm

Fly to Bangkok

Fly back to Bangkok for onward travel or departure.
THB1000, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon free for shopping or relaxing

If time allows, visit a mall such as MBK or relax at your hotel.
Variable, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Vertigo Restaurant

Enjoy panoramic city views and fine dining at the rooftop Vertigo restaurant before concluding your trip.
THB1500+, 2h