Gah! You’re going to love this beautiful, diverse country! Perfect for first time visitors, this 10 days Thailand itinerary gives you the perfect mix of culture, iconic scenery, and relaxing beach time. It’s the perfect way to see the best highlights in this amazing country.
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Whether you’re obsessed with beaches (🙋♀️) or want get lost in ornate temples, or are a total foodie, this itinerary has a bit of everything. You’ll start in Bangkok, head south to Krabi and Phi Phi, then finish in Phuket.
Let’s dive in!
Day 1 – culture of Bangkok
Wake up in Bangkok or arrive early in the day to begin this itinerary.
Bangkok is the perfect place to start your Thailand itinerary because it gives you a little bit of everything: culture, food and temples. Visit some of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks in this action-packed day.
What to do:
- Visit the Grand Palace (it’s stunning and worth the crowds)
- See the famous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
- Catch sunset at Wat Arun
- Eat your way through Bangkok (street food is a MUST)
I highly recommend this Bangkok temples tour, which takes you to all the best places, including several listed above.
If you prefer to do it yourself, start at Grand Palace, which is seriously one of the most impressive places in Thailand. The detail, the colors, the history… you could literally spend hours wandering through it all.
Next is Wat Pho, home to the massive reclining Buddha that stretches over 150 feet long and is completely covered in gold. It’s really spectacular up close!
From there, you’ll head to places like Khao San Road, where the vibe completely shifts. It’s lively, a little chaotic, and packed with street food, shopping, and people from all over the world.
You can also circle back to Wat Arun,which is one of the most iconic places in Bangkok to watch the sunset.
👉Book it now: Bangkok temples tour
Day 2: Bangkok markets
On your second day, you’ll experience something totally different!
What to do:
- Damneon Saduak Market
- Maeklong Railway Market
- Explore night markets or rooftop bars
I highly recommend booking this tour of the markets and railway for the day!
First, visit Thailand’s famous floating markets, where vendors sell food and goods directly from boats. It’s colorful, busy, and such a unique cultural experience. Honestly it also feels a bit like a tourist trap, but some spots are touristy for a reason!
Next is the Maeklong Railway Market, famous for its unique setting right on the railway tracks. When the train approaches, watch as vendors quickly pull back their awnings and display tables, allowing the train to pass by, then set everything back in place as soon as it’s gone. Grab some local fruit while you’re there – delicious!
To end your time in Bangkok, find a rooftop bar to watch the sunset. I loved watching the sky turn pink as the city lit up at night!
Check out this full 2-day Bangkok itinerary with more details!
Day 3: travel to Krabi and Ao Nang / Railay Beach
Your next adventure on this Thailand itinerary is a cute but popular beach spot! Known for its gorgeous beach and party scene, you can spend a short time visiting one of the most picturesque places in Thailand: Ao Nang!
Getting there:
- Fly from Bangkok to Krabi (about 1.5 hours)
- Then take a short transfer to Ao Nang or Railay Beach (less than an hour)
What to do:
- Check into your hotel and unwind
- Lounge at or walk along Ao Nang Beach
- Grab dinner with a sunset view
After Bangkok, flying into Krabi feels like stepping into a completely different world.
Krabi is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and relaxed beach vibe, which is exactly what most people picture when they think of Thailand.
This day is intentionally slower than the last two.
Once you arrive, settle into your hotel and head to the beach. There’s plenty of restaurants and a cute market selling clothing, souvenirs and other Thailand essentials.
Day 3 is your transition day as you’re shifting from city energy to island life. With just one night here, enjoy it while it lasts!
Day 4: travel to and enjoy Phi Phi Islands (one of my favorite days on this Thailand itinerary)
After a night in Krabi or near Ao Nang, it’s time to transfer to the Phi Phi Islands for truly unbelievable beaches!
Getting there:
To get from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi, I highly recommend a speedboat to make the journey quicker so you can start enjoying the island sooner. 12Go Asia has the best options for setting up transfers, depending on which pier you’re closest to. Ao Nang is the most common.
Afternoon ideas:
- Walk around Tonsai Village
- Head to the beach for a swim
- Grab a beachfront dinner
The islands are made up of several small land masses, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the main ones, surrounded by clear water and towering cliffs. With bright turquoise water, white sand beaches and no cars (water taxi’s are the thing here!), it’s truly paradise.
This is another slow day, allowing you to get checked into the hotel and explore the island a bit if you’d like.
Day 5: Maya Bay tour (the most famous spot in Thailand)
This is one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip. I highly recommend taking this long tail boat tour of the Phi Phi Islands, including Maya Bay.
Maya Bay became famous after The Beach movie, and it’s still one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see.
What to do on your tour:
- A ride on a longtail boat
- A short ride from Phi Phi Don to Phi Phi Leh (stunning!)
- Exploring the beach and surrounding cliffs
On your tour, you’ll stop lagoons and snorkeling spots (one of my favorite parts of this tour!), and of course Phi Phi Leh, home to Maya Bay.
It includes a short walk through the national park to Maya Bay. Because of conservation efforts, you can’t swim here but honestly, just walking on the beach and taking it in is enough.
👉Book it now: boat tour Phi Phi Islands & Maya Bay
Day 6: Phi Phi Islands: beach day or adventure day
Day 6 is totally flexible! There are so many things to do in Phi Phi Islands, so choose one (or more) as this is your last day before transferring to Phuket.
What to do:
- Visit Long Beach (one of the most beautiful and less crowded spots)
- Go snorkeling at places like Shark Point
- Visit Monkey Beach (sometimes included in Maya Bay tours, or go separately)
- Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint: it’s one of the best views in Thailand and totally worth the climb
- Or just relax and enjoy a beach day
Of course, if you really want to amp up the relaxation, you could opt for a Thai massage. My massage in Thailand has been my most favorite ever!
Day 7: travel to Phuket
Time for your final destination on this 10 day Thailand itinerary: Phuket.
Getting there:
- Take a boat from Phi Phi to Phuket (about 2 hours)
Phuket is more developed than Phi Phi or Krabi, so this you’ll find luxury resorts, beach clubs and a ton of dining options!
Afternoon ideas:
- Check into your hotel or resort
- Enjoy the pool or beach
- Go out for a nice dinner
Spend your first day here settling in, relaxing, and enjoying a nice dinner. There’s lots to see and do in Phuket over the next few days!
Day 8: temples in Phuket (another favorite on this 10 days Thailand itinerary)
To balance out all the beach time, you can explore some of Phuket’s cultural highlights.
I loved taking a private Phuket tour with a driver. It was so easy to see everything we wanted without the stress of a group format.
What to do:
- Big Buddha, which sits high above the island and offers panoramic views
- Wat Chalong Temple, known for its detailed architecture and cultural significance
- Promthep Cape, which is a popular viewpoint, especially at sunset
Just prepare for a lot of crowds in Phuket, even in the shoulder season or off season. Traffic can be intense, so consider that time into your day as you plan activities (another reason to hire a driver for the day!)
👉Book it now: Phuket temples tour
Day 9: Coral Island day trip
How about one last island adventure while in Thailand? Coral Island is a fun day trip from Phuket, offering food and drink plus places to lounge without the hassle of lots of crowds.
What to do:
- Relax on the soft white sand of Kahung Beach
- Snorkel in the super clear waters along the island
- Try water sports like parasailing and kayaking
Spend the day relaxing and enjoying the laid-back beach vibe. This is one of the easiest and most fun day trips from Phuket, and I definitely recommend it if you’re wanting to step away from the city chaos.
👉Book it now: day trip to Coral Island
Day 10: pool and beach day in Phuket
After a few busy travel days full of sight seeing and tours, this is your final day in Thailand! Time to rest and soak in all the Thai food and sights before you head back home.
What to do:
- Hang out at the hotel pool or beach
- Visit a beach club in Phuket
- Get a massage – they’re offered almost everywhere, including most beaches
- Watch the sunset with a drink
If you’re not staying at a hotel on the beach, Patong Beach is a popular choice in Phuket. It has live music, places to eat and water activities like jet skis or paragliding. It’s easy enough to spend a day here.
This itinerary assumes you fly out the following morning. Of course, change it up as needed for travel plans!
From Phuket: Similan Islands tour (optional add-on to this 10 days Thailand itinerary)
If you want something even more unforgettable, swap Coral Island or your beach day for the Similan Islands tour.
These islands have some of the most beautiful sand I’ve ever stepped foot on! It’s a national park made of 9 islands and home to some of the best natural beauty in Thailand.
What to do:
- Beach time at places like Princess Beach on Koh Miang (Island 4)
- Snorkeling just off Island 7, Payu
- Hike to the lookout on Similan Island, number 8
- Incredible views and crystal-clear water all day!
It’s a longer day to get there from Phuket, but if you’re up for it, it’s absolutely worth it.
👉Book it now: Similan Islands from Phuket
10 days Thailand itinerary – that’s a wrap!
Can you believe all the beautiful places in Thailand? From amazing beaches to incredible culture, Thailand is a destination with a variety of experiences for every travel style.
Pick and choose which activities are suited to your tastes within this guide. Swap out some of these activities for alternatives, or spend more time at the attractions that really interest you!
Thailand so special: amazing food, stunning landscapes, and that relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes people fall in love with it. I know I can’t wait to get back!
Related content to read next:
Do’s and Don’ts of a Thailand Vacation for First Time Visitors
Amazing 2 Day Itinerary Bangkok, Thailand: Must-see Attractions You’ll Love
21 Incredible Things to Do in Phi Phi Islands Thailand You Can’t Miss
Ultimate Guide to Coral Island Phuket (GORGEOUS Thailand Spot You’ll Love)
STUNNING Similan Islands Thailand: Ultimate Guide to Beaches, Snorkeling & More
Khao Lak, Phang Nga, Thailand: 21 Fun Things to Do (You’ll Love this Underrated Coast)
28 Absolute Best Beaches in Thailand (Amazing Spots You Need to See)
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