Comprehensive 13-Day Thailand Travel Itinerary: Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Islands

Day 1: Arrival and Bangkok Exploration

Bangkok, Thailand on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Start your day with traditional Thai breakfast dishes at this vintage cafe famous among locals, open from 6:00am to 2:00pm.
THB150, 1h

9:30am

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Visit the historic Grand Palace and the spectacular Temple of the Emerald Buddha, iconic landmarks of Bangkok. Open from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
THB500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Krua Apsorn

Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine including famous crab curry in this highly rated local restaurant, open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
THB300, 1h

2:30pm

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Explore the beautiful riverside temple known for its uniquely decorated spires. Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
THB100, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Khao San Road

Experience the lively backpacker street with vibrant nightlife, shops, and street food.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai

Dine at the Michelin-starred street food stall famous for exquisite crab omelette, reservations recommended.
THB800, 1.5h
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Day 2: Bangkok Cultural Sites

Bangkok, Thailand on July 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Toby’s on Sukhumvit

Enjoy western style breakfast and great coffee at this trendy cafe, open 7:30am-5pm.
THB250, 1h

9:00am

Jim Thompson House

Visit this museum dedicated to the American silk entrepreneur, showcasing traditional Thai architecture. Open 9:00am-6:00pm.
THB200, 1.5h

11:00am

Boat Ride in Chao Phraya River

Take a scenic ride along the river, experiencing Bangkok’s historical neighborhoods. Ferry operates 6:00am-7:00pm.
THB50, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Never Ending Summer

Taste refined Thai food in a stylish riverside setting, open 11:00am-10:00pm.
THB350, 1.5h

2:30pm

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Explore contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events, open 10:00am–9:00pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner and Rooftop Drinks at Vertigo and Moon Bar

Experience breathtaking views of Bangkok’s skyline while dining at this famous rooftop bar.
THB1200, 2h
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Day 3: Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand on July 18, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at the hotel before departing.
Included in hotel, 30m

7:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya by Train

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour train ride from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Ayutthaya.
THB50, 1.5h

9:00am

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient ruins, temples and palaces. Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
THB50, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Malakor Kitchen and Cafe

Casual dining offering great Thai food and relaxing atmosphere.
THB250, 1h

2:00pm

Boat tour around Ayutthaya's island

Take a 1-hour boat tour to see historical sites from the river.
THB300, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Bangkok

Head back to Bangkok by train, arrival approximately 5:30pm.
THB50, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Supanniga Eating Room

Savor eastern Thai delicacies in a cozy environment.
THB400, 1.5h
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Day 4: Travel to Sukhothai & Temple Exploration

Sukhothai, Thailand on July 19, 2025

6:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Bangkok

A hearty breakfast before your early trip to Sukhothai.
Included in hotel, 30m

7:00am

Flight from Bangkok to Sukhothai

Fly approx. 1 hour from Don Mueang Airport to Sukhothai Airport.
THB1500, 1h

9:00am

Arrive and check in hotel

Settle into your accommodation near Sukhothai Historical Park.
THB1500, 1h

10:30am

Sukhothai Historical Park

Explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient capital of Thailand, open 7:30am to 6:00pm.
THB100, 4h

3:00pm

Visit Ramkhamhaeng National Museum

Discover artifacts from Sukhothai period, museum hours 8:30am to 5:00pm.
THB100, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Red Sword

Fine dining with Thai and western fusion dishes.
THB500, 1.5h
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Day 5: More Sukhothai and Travel to Chiang Mai

Sukhothai to Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your road trip.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Wat Si Chum

See the famous colossal Buddha image in this ancient temple. Open till 6:00pm.
THB20, 1h

11:00am

Travel by bus to Chiang Mai

Take an approx 5-hour bus ride from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai.
THB400, 5h

4:00pm

Check into Chiang Mai hotel

Get settled and rest after your journey.
THB1200, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Relish authentic northern Thai khao soi, a must-try local noodle dish.
THB70, 1h
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Day 6: Chiang Mai Temples & Old City

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Diamond Breakfast Club

Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast with smoothies, eggs, and pastries.
THB200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Wat Phra Singh

Explore one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, with impressive Lanna architecture. Open 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Wat Chedi Luang

Visit the ancient temple with a massive pagoda, only a short walk from Wat Phra Singh.
THB40, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Huen Phen

Savor traditional northern Thai cuisine in a charming teak house restaurant.
THB250, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Doi Suthep Temple

Take a 30-minute drive uphill to this iconic temple with panoramic city views. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
THB50, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ginger & Kafe

Enjoy excellent Thai and fusion cuisine in a stylish setting.
THB400, 1.5h
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Day 7: Chiang Mai Nature & Markets

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Rustic and Blue

Relax with great coffee, fresh baked goods, and hearty breakfast options.
THB200, 1h

8:30am

Visit Elephant Nature Park

A full day ethical elephant sanctuary visit to feed and care for rescued elephants. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm, pre-booking essential.
THB2800, 8h

6:30pm

Dinner at Dash! Restaurant and Bar

Relax with northern Thai specialties in a traditional teak house.
THB350, 1.5h
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Day 8: Travel to Phuket and Beach Time

Phuket, Thailand on July 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast before your flight south.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Fly Chiang Mai to Phuket

Approx. 2.5 hour flight to the famous island destination.
THB2000, 2.5h

12:00pm

Check in Hotel and Lunch at Kopitiam by Wilai

Sample southern Thai specialties in a cozy restaurant near your hotel.
THB300, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Patong Beach

Enjoy swimming and sunbathing on Phuket’s most vibrant beach.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at No.9 2nd Restaurant

Popular local restaurant offering variety of tasty Thai dishes.
THB350, 1.5h
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Day 9: Island Hopping Phi Phi Islands

Phuket and Phi Phi Islands, Thailand on July 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a big day of island hopping.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Phi Phi Islands Day Trip

Take a speedboat tour to Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and snorkeling spots. Tours usually run 8:00am-5:00pm.
THB1500, 9h

7:00pm

Dinner at Suay Restaurant

Enjoy innovative Thai cuisine in Phuket town.
THB500, 1.5h
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Day 10: Explore Old Phuket Town & Departure

Phuket, Thailand on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gallery Cafe

Cafe known for great coffee and breakfast dishes inside Old Phuket Town.
THB200, 1h

9:30am

Walking Tour Old Phuket Town

Explore colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, markets, and street art. Best to walk in the morning to avoid heat.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Raya Restaurant

Try authentic southern Thai food in a charming old house.
THB400, 1.5h

3:00pm

Relax or last minute shopping

Return to hotel and prepare for departure or visit local markets.
Optional, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Kan Eang @ Pier

Fresh seafood restaurant with sea views to end your trip memorably.
THB600, 1.5h
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Day 11: Leisure Day Phuket

Phuket, Thailand on July 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your day.
Included, 1h

10:30am

Relax at Nai Harn Beach

Quieter beach with beautiful scenery perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Free, 4h

3:00pm

Spa Treatment at Oasis Spa

Pamper yourself with traditional Thai massage and wellness treatments.
THB2000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Blue Elephant Phuket

Indulge in royal Thai cuisine in an elegant colonial mansion.
THB750, 2h
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Day 12: Return to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on July 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a filling breakfast before flying back.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Flight Phuket to Bangkok

Fly approx 1.5 hour to Bangkok for final night in the city.
THB2000, 1.5h

11:00am

Check in hotel and lunch at Eat Me Restaurant

Modern international cuisine in a trendy setting.
THB600, 1.5h

2:00pm

Shopping at Siam Paragon and MBK

Explore two popular shopping malls for souvenirs and fashion.
Free to browse; purchase optional, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bo.Lan

Experience fine Thai dining with focus on sustainability.
THB1500, 2h
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Day 13: Departure Day

Bangkok, Thailand on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Thailand.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Check out and travel to airport

Prepare and transfer to Bangkok airport for your flight home.
Taxi approx. THB400, 1h
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