In this 3-week Thailand itinerary, you’ll start in bustling Bangkok for culture and street food, then explore historic sites in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. Week 2 takes you to the north for adventure in Chiang Mai, chill vibes in Pai, and quirky art at the White Temple in Chiang Rai. Finally, relax on southern islands like Krabi and Phi Phi, ending with beach time in Phuket or Koh Samui. The plan balances history, nature, and relaxation while keeping costs reasonable. It’s a mix of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences!
Week 1: Bangkok & Central Thailand
Day 1-2: Bangkok
I’ll start in Bangkok, the bustling capital city. After landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport, I’ll take an affordable taxi or BTS Skytrain (about $5-$10) to my hotel. For budget-conscious travelers, I’ll stay in Khao San Road ($10-$20 per night for dorms; $30-$50 for private rooms). If I’m splurging, there are luxury hotels along the river that cost around $100+.
Activities:
- Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho ($16 entry fee). Pro tip: Wear appropriate clothing (covered shoulders and knees).
- Explore Chinatown (Yaowarat) for street food. Try pad thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled chicken skewers ($1-$3 each).
- Take a Chao Phraya River boat tour ($8-$15) to see the city from the water.
- Nightlife: Head to RCA (Royal City Avenue) for bars and clubs if I’m feeling energetic.
Budget Estimate:
- Accommodation: $15/night x 2 = $30
- Food: $10/day x 2 = $20
- Activities: $40 total
- Total: ~$90
Day 3-4: Ayutthaya & Kanchanaburi
On Day 3, I’ll catch an early train or bus to Ayutthaya (~$5-$10 one-way). Once there, I’ll rent a bike ($2/day) to explore the ancient ruins like Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Entry fees are around $5-$7 per site.
For Day 4, I’ll head to Kanchanaburi by train (~$5-$10). Must-dos here include:
- Visiting the Bridge over the River Kwai (free entry).
- Exploring Erawan National Park ($7 entry + $2 for parking) for its seven-tiered waterfall.
- Staying overnight in Kanchanaburi in a guesthouse ($15-$30).
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $20 round-trip
- Accommodation: $20 total
- Food: $20 total
- Activities: $15 total
- Total: ~$75
Day 5-7: Sukhothai & Phitsanulok
From Kanchanaburi, I’ll take a bus or train to Sukhothai (~$15). Here, I’ll explore the Sukhothai Historical Park ($5 entry), ideally on a rented bicycle ($2/day). It’s peaceful and less crowded than Ayutthaya.
Next, I’ll move to Phitsanulok (~$10 by bus), where I’ll visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat ($2 entry). I might also take a day trip to Khao Kho, a scenic mountain town known for its cool weather and hiking trails.
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $25 total
- Accommodation: $30 total
- Food: $30 total
- Activities: $15 total
- Total: ~$100
Week 2: Northern Thailand Adventure
Day 8-10: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is calling my name! I’ll fly here from Phitsanulok (~$50-$80 depending on booking time). Staying in Nimmanhaemin or Old Town will keep me close to action without breaking the bank ($20-$50 per night).
Activities:
- Climb Doi Suthep Mountain ($5 entry + $2 temple donation) for jaw-dropping views.
- Visit Sunday Walking Street (if timing works) for shopping and street food.
- Book an ethical elephant sanctuary tour ($50-$100).
- Try ziplining or trekking in the surrounding hills ($30-$60).
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $60 (flight)
- Accommodation: $70 total
- Food: $30 total
- Activities: $100 total
- Total: ~$260
Day 11-13: Pai
Pai is next—a laid-back hippie haven. A bus ride from Chiang Mai takes about 5 hours and costs around $10. Dorms go for $10-$15, while private rooms are $25-$40.
Activities:
- Rent a motorbike ($10/day) to explore hot springs, waterfalls, and Pai Canyon.
- Try Pai pancakes ($3-$5) for breakfast.
- Relax at coffee shops like Black Label or The Smiling Farm.
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $20 round-trip
- Accommodation: $40 total
- Food: $30 total
- Activities: $20 total
- Total: ~$110
Day 14-15: Chiang Rai
Finally, I’ll head to Chiang Rai (~$10 by bus). Can’t miss the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun, free entry) and Black House (Baan Dam, free entry). These quirky attractions are unlike anything else in Thailand.
If I have extra energy, I’ll visit the Golden Triangle ($15-$20 tour) to learn about opium history and enjoy panoramic views.
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $20 total
- Accommodation: $30 total
- Food: $20 total
- Activities: $30 total
- Total: ~$100
Week 3: Island Hopping Paradise
Day 16-18: Krabi or Phi Phi Islands
Time for beaches! I’ll fly to Krabi (~$80-$120) and base myself in Ao Nang or Railay Beach ($30-$60 per night).
Activities:
- Take a speedboat tour to Phi Phi Islands ($25-$40) for snorkeling and Maya Bay.
- Kayak through limestone cliffs and hidden caves ($15-$25).
- Chill on Tonsai Beach or Long Beach.
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $100 (flight + local transport)
- Accommodation: $90 total
- Food: $30 total
- Activities: $70 total
- Total: ~$290
Day 19-21: Phuket or Koh Samui
For my last few days, I’ll choose between Phuket and Koh Samui. Both offer world-class beaches and nightlife.
- Phuket : Stay in Patong ($20-$50), Kata ($30-$70), or Kamala ($40-$80). Must-sees include Big Buddha ($5 entry), Phi Phi Islands tours, and Phang Nga Bay cruises ($30-$50).
- Koh Samui : Base myself in Choeng Mon or Bophut ($40-$80). Highlights include Ang Thong Marine Park tours ($40-$60), secret waterfalls, and sunset cocktails.
Budget Estimate:
- Transport: $100 (flight)
- Accommodation: $120 total
- Food: $30 total
- Activities: $100 total
- Total: ~$350
Grand Total Budget Estimate
Here’s the breakdown of estimated costs for the entire trip:
- Accommodation: $500-$1,000
- Food: $300-$400
- Transport: $300-$400
- Activities: $400-$600
- Total: $1,500-$2,400
This doesn’t include souvenirs, unexpected expenses, or flights to/from Thailand. Adjust according to your preferences—hostels vs. boutique hotels, eating street food vs. fine dining, etc.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary balances culture, adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, trekking through jungles, or sipping cocktails on pristine beaches, Thailand offers something for everyone. Customize it further based on your interests and budget. Happy travels! 🚀
