How Long to Spend in Thailand: Itinerary for 10 Days, 2, 3 Weeks

Thailand is a dream destination, offering everything from tropical beaches and royal palaces to ancient ruins, temples, and delicious food. There's something for everyone.

So, how long should you spend in Thailand? For first-timers, a 10-day trip is ideal to experience the highlights — Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and a southern island like Phuket or Samui. If you have more time, 2 or 3 weeks lets you explore even more.

In this guide, we’ll cover itinerary options for different trip lengths: 5 days, 7 days, 10 days, 2 weeks, and more.

Where to Go in Thailand and How Long Should You Spend?

For first-timers, it's essential to visit Thailand's top three destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and either Phuket or Koh Samui. Our 10-Day Best of Thailand Tour is perfect for this.

For a more comprehensive experience, plan for 12-14 days. This allows you to explore additional destinations like Chiang Rai in the north, Khao Yai or Khao Sok National Parks, and cultural sites like Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya in the central region.

If you're short on time, a 5-7 day trip offers a glimpse into one region, such as the northern culture or southern beaches.

• Bangkok: The capital city is a must for sightseeing, with temple tours and local markets.
• Chiang Mai: Known for its famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival and unique elephant encounters.
• Phuket: Thailand's largest island is ideal for first-time beach vacations, especially for families.
• Koh Samui: On the east coast, this quieter, romantic island is perfect for couples.
• Khao Sok National Park: A stunning destination with Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs, offering activities like jungle trekking, wildlife watching, and treehouse stays in the rainforest.

Thailand in 5–7 Days

A week is ideal for exploring one region of Thailand, such as the beautiful southern coast, central, or northern Thailand. For a taste of Thailand, you can select one or two places among the most popular destinations below:

A popular 7-day tour in Thailand usually includes a city and an island visit. Bangkok and Phuket or Koh Samui are the most preferred combination for first-timers.

Alternatively, stick to one region to explore it at a leisurely pace. A One-Week Thailand Family Vacation can take you to discover central Thailand in-depth, and 7-Day Bangkok and Chiang Mai Highlights Tour will take you to visit enchanting northern Thailand.

Thailand in 10 Days

10 days in Thailand is the perfect amount of time to experience the country’s highlights. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the cultural charm of Chiang Mai and the relaxing beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui, this classic route is ideal for first-time visitors.

If this sounds like your kind of trip, our 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour is a great option.

DAYS 1–3: Bangkok – Thailand’s Vibrant Capital

Kick off your journey in Bangkok, where ancient temples and modern city life collide. Visit the stunning Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, wander through lively street markets, and indulge in delicious Thai street food. Want to explore beyond the city? Take a day trip to Kanchanaburi to see the historic Bridge over the River Kwai and the breathtaking Erawan Waterfalls.

DAYS 4–6: Chiang Mai – Culture & Nature 

Next, fly north to Chiang Mai, where a more laid-back atmosphere awaits. Visit the sacred Doi Suthep Temple for stunning views over the city, spend a day at an ethical elephant sanctuary, and learn to cook authentic Thai dishes in a hands-on cooking class.

DAYS 7–10: Island Escape – Phuket or Koh Samui

Wrap up your trip with some well-deserved beach time.

If you are looking for a more tranquil island, this 10-Day Best of Thailand with Koh Samui Island is right for you.

Or get more sample itineraries: Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days .

Thailand in 12 Days

For 12 days, you have the opportunity to traverse the entire expanse of Thailand, discovering both renowned landmarks and hidden treasures. Additionally, you can extend your exploration beyond borders, venturing into Cambodia or Myanmar for a truly enriching and diverse travel experience.

Here is our 12-Day Thailand Wonders Tour for your reference, and it can be tailor-made according to your interests.

Over 12 days, you'll walk through Bangkok's unique markets, getting a feel for how locals live. Explore the amazing nature of Khao Yai National Park, trek through the jungle, and try to spot wild elephants. In Chiang Mai, take a fun rickshaw ride to discover the local street food scene. Finally, relax on a beautiful beach by the Andaman Sea.

If you travel with kids, our 12-Day Thailand Family Holiday is just for you. This itinerary is a good combination of culture, local life, exciting activities, great food, and stunning scenery.

In 12 days, you can enhance your journey by taking an extended trip to nearby Cambodia, providing you with an even more diverse and enriching experience. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can marvel at the intricate architecture and delve into the rich history of the Khmer Empire. This extension to Cambodia promises to add a fascinating layer to your 12-day tour.

Check the Best 3 Thailand Itineraries for 12 Days.

Thailand in 2 Weeks

A two-week Thailand tour allows for a comprehensive exploration of the country's diverse offerings. Here's a sample itinerary:

Begin your exploration of Bangkok by visiting the iconic landmarks and escape to the tranquility of Khao Yai National Park. Venture north to Chiang Rai for unique temples and the allure of the Golden Triangle. Traverse to the cultural haven of Chiang Mai, engaging with elephants, savoring local cuisine, and navigating its charming streets. Conclude your adventure on the pristine shores of Phuket or Koh Samui, indulging in island bliss with activities like snorkeling and relaxation on white sandy beaches.

For an even more expansive and enriching experience, consider combining your Thailand trip with the cultural treasures of Vietnam or Cambodia. Two weeks is also enough for a tour combining Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Thailand in 3 Weeks or More

With three weeks in Thailand, you have plenty of time to dive deeper into the country’s culture and natural beauty. You can extend your 2-week Thailand itinerary by adding more cultural towns and extra island time.

A simple way to plan your trip is to spend one week each in northern, central, and southern Thailand—perfect if you don’t have a specific focus. Alternatively, you can use the extra time to explore nearby countries like Vietnam and Cambodia for a multi-country adventure.

• Northern Thailand discovery (6 days): Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai (nature, temples, history, elephants, and cultural experience discovery).
• Island hopping (8–9 days): the popular west coast islands (Phuket – Koh Phi Phi – Krabi), the east coast islands (Koh Samui – Koh Tao – Koh Pha Ngan), or the relatively remote island (Koh Chang – Koh Kood).
• Have a Thailand tour combined with Vietnam and Cambodia or Laos: see the top Southeast Asian travel destinations in one trip.
• You can check the sample itineraries of Thailand for 21 days >>>