Highlights of Thailand Two-Week Itinerary

Islands, Food, and Culture

Ready to plan an incredible trip around Thailand but unsure where to begin, how to get around, or what kind of budget you'll need? This itinerary has all of the details, offering everything you need to lay out your fantastic 15-day adventure. The region is full of big city activities, museums, nightlife, and delicious food, and this journey will let you experience all of it.

If you follow this guide, you'll find vibrant culture, delicious food, active nightlife, and gorgeous beaches. All of the specific planning information you need will be covered below, such as the route, expected budget, activities, and where to stay.

This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:

1. Bangkok (2 days)
2. Chiang Mai (3 days)
3. Ayutthaya (1 day)
4. Chumphon (2 days)
5. Phuket (3 days)
6. Koh Phi Phi (2 days)
7. Ao Nang (2 days)

Chiang Mai street vendor

Itinerary Highlights

• Great for couples
• Family-friendly
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big City Activities
• Beaches
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
• Delicious Food
• Historic Sites
• Hiking
• Nightlife
• Beautiful Locations

Thailand is known for its large cities full of sights, attractions, nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and more. By taking some time to explore some of the larger cities, you'll not only have a fun trip, but you'll get a chance to experience the unique culture and vibrant city attractions. Make sure you specifically visit Bangkok and Chiang Mai if you love urban vibes.

One of the main reasons to visit the area is to see the gorgeous beaches and relax in the water. When it comes to Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, the beaches are fantastic.

If you're in Thailand, mark scuba diving and snorkeling as must-do activities. The waters here are known for their clarity and abundant marine life. It's truly an experience you can't pass up. Take a break and hit the water for some unforgettable moments. If you're into diving, you're in for a treat around Phuket, Ao Nang, and Koh Phi Phi – the opportunities are simply terrific.

Indulging in delectable cuisine is a major motivator for travel, and a visit to Thailand is no different. Brace yourself for an abundance of outstanding restaurants and local dishes that are simply a must-try. The food in Ayutthaya, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai is especially delicious.

So much history is to be found in Thailand. Don't miss the historic architecture, museums, and charming vibe of the area.

When you're in Thailand, the hiking is a game-changer, and you don't want to miss it. Make some time to explore the local trails, where you'll be treated to stunning views, revitalizing fresh air, and a solid workout. Some of the most amazing scenery is found around Koh Phi Phi, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok.

Get ready for a buzzing nightlife scene in Thailand with plenty of hot spots that are an absolute must-visit. Specifically, don't miss the nightlife in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket.

Thailand pulls in visitors for its breathtaking scenery, a key highlight of the region. Don't forget your camera - trust me, the real-life experience is even more awe-inspiring. You don't want to miss Koh Phi Phi, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok for the beautiful scenery.

Don't want to plan everything yourself? Maybe you should consider an organized tour that takes away all of the stress of planning. Check out our articles for guided tour packages here: The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand.

See All Guided Tours in Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand

When is the best time to visit?

If you're looking to escape the cold weather for a warmer destination, then Thailand is for you. It's a popular getaway with travelers not just because of the great weather, but also for the many activities and attractions. It can get quite popular in the winter, so plan ahead.

When summer rolls around, Thailand becomes a hotspot, buzzing with activity. Anticipate a lively atmosphere with plenty of visitors; however, the silver lining is that during this time, everything is accessible and ready for exploration.

Who is this itinerary for?

Traveling as a couple? Let's dig into the romance in Thailand. It's renowned for being an ideal destination for couples, offering an enchanting atmosphere. If you're journeying with your significant other, get ready for a treat. Especially visit Phuket, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai for the enchanting atmosphere.

If you're planning a family getaway, the area is an absolute winner for a fantastic, kid-friendly trip. There's a wide variety of activities tailored for the little ones. We'll dig into more details below. In particular, make a point to visit Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

This area offers a myriad of travel choices perfect for those on a budget or backpacking adventure. Whether it's budget-friendly hostels, affordable hotels, free activities, pocket-friendly dining, or the lively social scene, you're in for a fantastic trip even if you're pinching pennies. Spending more time in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Ayutthaya can especially help your budget.

Phuket Beaches

Transportation

Getting from one destination to another in Thailand is generally easy, with the majority of these places being approximately 4 hours apart.

We selected Bangkok as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Bangkok, you can see flight prices and schedules here.

While generally more expensive, flying is usually the quickest way to get from place to place with this itinerary. For the longest routes, it's especially fast. As with any flight, you'll want to plan and book in advance, so check out the airfare prices and schedules beforehand.

Traveling by train through Thailand is not only easy, but also affordable and efficient. While trains connect major cities very quickly, getting to smaller destinations can sometimes take a little more time. Some smaller towns may even require connecting to local buses. But generally, it's easy to get around if you stick to the main routes, and you'll be able to sit back and admire the views out the window. Check out the ticket prices and schedules ahead of time, too.

Travelers frequently rely on ferry boats for commuting around Thailand, so do some research on ticket prices and schedules before your trip. With the potential for spectacular views and the inherent fun of being on the water, this is a great way to make the journey.

Buses offer an excellent means of transportation within the area due to their affordability, speed, and convenience. For budget-conscious travelers who prefer not to be at the wheel, exploring the various price options makes considering buses an attractive alternative to other transportation modes.

Is 15 days enough time in Thailand?

Yes, 15 days should give you ample time to explore the key destinations in Thailand. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you can savor these locales at a leisurely pace, making your trip both relaxed and enjoyable. Of course, if you're eager for more local experiences, feel free to extend your stay or delve deeper into each spot. Day trip options abound, offering flexibility. Conversely, if time is tight, you can customize this suggested itinerary for a shorter yet fulfilling visit. While trimming destinations is an option, we recommend sticking to around 15 days to truly appreciate everything.

Bangkok, Thailand

How much does a 15-day trip to Thailand cost?

The estimated budget breakdown for this 15-day trip through Thailand is shown below. This budget is based on our daily average travel costs which come from the spending habits of actual travelers along with cost data from major companies. The daily average costs are per person and do not include the transportation between destinations. These estimated costs are meant to be a guide. You can stay close to thse costs by staying at mid-level hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some of the main attractions in each location. It's possible to stay on a cheaper budget if you stay in hostels or budget hotels and eat at less expensive restaurants. It's also very easy to go over this budget by staying at high-end luxury hotels, eating at fancy restaurants, and taking private tours.

From these calculations, the estimated cost for this 15-day itinerary of Thailand costs $1,447 per person. This does not include the transportation between destinations, as that cost will vary depending on your chosen option.

Accommodation Costs

Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Thailand based on calculated averages.

Hotel Prices

For your accommodation costs, the average hotel room price for each destination is shown below. This hotel cost data is calculated from the prices of hotels provided by Kayak, and do not include taxes and fees. The average prices represent typical mid-range hotel rooms, but it's always possible to spend more or less than this average if you stay in budget-friendly or high-end luxury hotels, respectively. Also, during peak travel season, these prices will usually be higher.

Hostel Prices

Looking to be budget-savvy on your journey? Hostels are an excellent choice, especially for the younger crowd or solo adventurers. The prices provided below outline the average costs for a dorm bed in a hostel in each destination. Yes, you might sacrifice a bit of privacy in a hostel dorm, but the lively atmosphere often turns these shared spaces into social hubs, offering fantastic opportunities to forge new connections. Keep in mind that many hostels also provide private rooms, albeit at a higher cost than dorms, coupled with additional amenities such as kitchens, social activities, and strategic locations. These average prices are calculated from available hostel data thoughtfully provided by HostelWorld.

Thailand Itinerary

1. Bangkok

2 Days

Bangkok is the colorful capital city of Thailand. It is filled with temples and religious sights as well as shopping centers and markets. There is a network of canals and the Chao Phraya River is filled with boats. The city has many high end hotels as well as backpacker meccas and everything in between.

Bangkok brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.

For foodies, Bangkok is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.

Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.

What to See in Bangkok

How to Spend 2 Days in Bangkok

Day 1:

When visiting Bangkok, you can't miss the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it.

The delicious food of Bangkok is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this capital city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Public transit in Bangkok is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the capital city quite easily. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Day 2:

Bangkok is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

The Royal Barges Museum is worth visiting for around 2 hours, which is great for families and couples. Known for its magnificent collection of ornate royal barges, entry is ฿100.

You'll want to have around 2 hours for MOCA. It's a nice activity for families and is known for its diverse collection of contemporary Thai art. It's ฿280 ($8) with free admission for students.

Make sure to set aside around 2 hours for The Bangkok National Museum, which is ฿200. It's great for any traveler and is known for its extensive collection of artifacts and artworks.

You'll want to have around 2 hours for The Jim Thompson House. It's a nice activity for couples and is known for its traditional Thai teakwood houses and extensive art collection. It's ฿200 ($5), or ฿100 for children ages 10-21, and free entry for children under 10 with an adult.

Make sure to set aside around 4 hours for The Grand Palace, which is ฿500. It's great for couples and is known for its stunning architecture and royal history.

You'll want to have around 1 hour for Wat Pho. It's a nice activity for couples and is known for its massive reclining Buddha statue and traditional Thai massage school. It's ฿300 ($8) with free entry for children. Massages are also available for a fee, depending on the duration.

Wat Arun is worth visiting for around 2 hours, which is great for couples. Known for its striking spires adorned with colorful porcelain tiles, entry is ฿50.

It's worth around 2 hours for Wat Traimit. Entry is ฿40 ($1.25), and appropriate dress is required. It's known for its massive solid gold Buddha statue and cultural significance.

This capital city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Day Trips from Bangkok

Several terrific day trip options are available from Bangkok to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.

• Amazing Ayutthaya Day Trip from Bangkok ($173)
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• Private Tour: Kanchanaburi Historical Day Trip from Bangkok ($192)
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• Chachoengsao Day Trip Including Bang Pakong River Cruise from Bangkok ($132)
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More Activities

Bangkok offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

See More Activities and Tours for Bangkok

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Bangkok, see The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Bangkok, The Best Floating Market Tours in Bangkok, The Best Wat and Temple Tours in Bangkok, and The Best Boat and Cruise Tours in Bangkok.

Bangkok Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Bangkok is $104 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Bangkok here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Bangkok is $25 based on the average from 1212 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Bangkok here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Bangkok, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $15. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Bangkok here.

Transportation

Trains are a great way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and you can see the train schedules and prices here.

Flying is fast, but usually the most expensive way to travel to Chiang Mai. You'll want to book your flight in advance to save money. See the airline schedules and prices here.

2. Chiang Mai

3 Days

Chiang Mai is a cultural city that's located in the mountainous part of northern Thailand. The city has many temples, a famous night market, and a unique cuisine that is among the best in the country. Many visitors book treks into the countryside from Chiang Mai and the city has become a popular destination for digital nomads.

Chiang Mai brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, hiking, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Mai are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.

For foodies, Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

Hiking in the area is world-class, and people come from far and wide to explore the area's many trails and views. Set aside some time while you're here to hike.

Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.

What to See in Chiang Mai

How to Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai

Day 1:

Chiang Mai is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

It's worth around 3 hours for The Chiang Mai National Museum. Entry is free. It's known for its cultural heritage exhibits and archaeological finds.

You'll want to have around 2 hours for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It's a nice activity for couples and is known for its panoramic views and sacred relic of Buddha's shoulder bone. It's ฿ (less than $1) for foreigners.

Make sure to set aside around 2 hours for Wat Pha Lat, which is free. It's great for couples and is known for its lush jungle setting and tranquil atmosphere.

It's worth around 2 hours for Wat Umong. Entry is free. It's known for its unique underground tunnels and serene forest setting.

You'll want to have around 1 hour for Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara. It's a nice activity for couples and is known for its massive ruined chedi and historical significance. It's free.

You'll want to have around 1 hour for Wat Phra Singh. It's a nice activity for couples and is known for its elegant Lanna architecture and revered Buddha image. It's free.

The culinary scene in Chiang Mai is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

The public transit in Chiang Mai is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Day 2:

Known for it's hiking, Chiang Mai sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

Day 3:

Shopping in Chiang Mai is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

The Saturday Night Market is worth visiting for around 3 hours, which is great for couples. Known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of goods, entry is free.

The Sunday Walking Street is worth visiting for around 3 hours, which is great for backpackers. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, handmade crafts, and street food, entry is free.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is worth visiting for around 3 hours, which is great for backpackers. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, entry is free.

Chiang Mai is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Several terrific day trip options are available from Chiang Mai to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.

• City Escape: Doi Inthanon & Karen Village Private Day Trip ($223)
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• Chiangrai day trip Private Tour ($145)
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• Inthanon Day Trip from Chiang Mai with Lunch - Group or Private ($76)
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More Activities

Chiang Mai offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

See More Activities and Tours for Chiang Mai

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Chiang Mai, see The Best Doi Inthanon National Park Tours from Chiang Mai, The Best Waterfall Tours from Chiang Mai, The Best Temple Tours in Chiang Mai, and The Best Thai Cooking Classes in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Chiang Mai is $60 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Chiang Mai here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Chiang Mai is $22 based on the average from 563 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Chiang Mai here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Chiang Mai, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $10. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Chiang Mai here.

Transportation

Trains are a great way to get from Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya, and you can see the train schedules and prices here.

Buses from Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.

3. Ayutthaya

1 Day

Ayutthaya is a city near the Ayutthaya Historical Park. It is only about 80 kilometers from Bangkok and makes and great day trip. It's a very popular tourist attraction, as the city served as the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767. Today you'll find the impressive ruins of temples, palaces, and monasteries.

What to See in Ayutthaya

How to Spend 1 Day in Ayutthaya

You'll want to maximize your time in Ayutthaya by spending as much time as you can at Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park, so plan your schedule accordingly. It's known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok, and you don't want to miss it.

There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Ayutthaya, see The Best Ayutthaya Temple Tours, Ayutthaya Historical Park, The Ayutthaya Floating Market, and Bang Pa-In Royal Palace.

Ayutthaya Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Ayutthaya is $86 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Ayutthaya here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Ayutthaya is $27 based on the average from 69 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Ayutthaya here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Ayutthaya, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $9. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Ayutthaya here.

Transportation

Trains are a great way to get from Ayutthaya to Chumphon, and you can see the train schedules and prices here.

Buses from Ayutthaya to Chumphon are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.

4. Chumphon

2 Days

Sometimes tourism has a tendency to spoil the natural beauty of a place. This is not the case in the magical city of Chumphon, Thailand. As the gateway to the Chumphon Archipelago, this city has maintained natural, untouched beauty. Its miles of coastline are full of fine beaches with fishing, swimming and a number of other activities.

Chumphon Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Chumphon is $51 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Chumphon here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Chumphon is $20 based on the average from 33 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Chumphon here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Chumphon, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $10. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Chumphon here.

Transportation

To get to Phuket, you'll need to take a combination of the bus and ferry boat. You can check bus schedules here and ferry schedules here.

To get to Phuket, the trip will require a combination of the train and a ferry boat. You can check train schedules here and ferry schedules here.

5. Phuket

3 Days

Phuket is one of the most famous islands in Thailand. It's popular with tourists who come to party, swim, and experience the sights and culture. The capital of the island is Phuket City, but most visitors stay at one of the many resorts by the beaches around the island.

Phuket brings plenty of visitors because it has beaches, nightlife, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples and families because of everything available.

After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.

Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.

You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.

What to See in Phuket

How to Spend 3 Days in Phuket

Day 1:

The beautiful beaches await you in Phuket, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Make sure to set aside around 4 hours for Karon Beach, which is free. It's great for families and couples and is known for its soft white sands, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunset views.

Patong Beach is worth visiting for around 4 hours, which is great for families and couples. Known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere, entry is free.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

The public transit in Phuket is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the resort island quite easily and affordably. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Day 2:

Don't miss the Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha) during your trip to Phuket, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Day 3:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Phuket is very popular. Spend the day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Phuket is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Day Trips from Phuket

Several terrific day trip options are available from Phuket to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.

• Day Trip to James Bond (Canoeing & Kayaking Islands & Lunch) ($102)
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• Scuba Diving in Phuket – Full-Day Trip (3 Dives, All Included) ($177)
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• Phi Phi with Maya and Bamboo Island Day Trip by Speedboat ($64)
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More Activities

Phuket offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

See More Activities and Tours for Phuket

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Phuket, see The Best Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island Tours from Phuket, The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Phuket, The Best ATV Tours in Phuket, and The Best Snorkeling Tours in Phuket.

Phuket Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Phuket is $137 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Phuket here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Phuket is $44 based on the average from 1002 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Phuket here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Phuket, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $14. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Phuket here.

Transportation

You'll likely want to take a ferry from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here. Prices often vary by date and company, and are usually cheaper when booked ahead.

6. Koh Phi Phi

2 Days

Koh Phi Phi is actually made up of six islands, but Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island. This island is popular with day trippers, but it's also a fun and beautiful island to visit independently. The snorkeling and diving is world class. There's a popular backpacker area around Tonsai, but there's also a quieter, resort-filled area to the north. In addition to stunning natural beauty, visitors enjoy snorkeling and dive trips, rock climbing, and hiking.

Koh Phi Phi brings plenty of visitors because it has beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking, nightlife, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples and backpackers because of everything available.

Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Koh Phi Phi are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.

You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.

Visitors come to Koh Phi Phi from all over the world to see its beauty, as it has a reputation of being absolutely stunning.

What to See in Koh Phi Phi

How to Spend 2 Days in Koh Phi Phi

Day 1:

When visiting Koh Phi Phi, you can't miss Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it.

Koh Phi Phi is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Public transit in Koh Phi Phi is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the island quite easily. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Day 2:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Koh Phi Phi is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

This island is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

More Activities

Koh Phi Phi offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

See More Activities and Tours for Koh Phi Phi

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Koh Phi Phi, see The Best Maya Bay Tours in Koh Phi Phi, The Best Longtail Boat Tours Around Koh Phi Phi, The Best Ferry Services to and from Koh Phi Phi, and The Best Snorkeling Tours in Koh Phi Phi.

Koh Phi Phi Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Koh Phi Phi is $95 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Koh Phi Phi here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Koh Phi Phi is $33 based on the average from 81 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Koh Phi Phi here.

Suggested Hotels

Hostels

If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Koh Phi Phi, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $13. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Koh Phi Phi here.

Transportation

You'll likely want to take a ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here. Prices often vary by date and company, and are usually cheaper when booked ahead.

7. Ao Nang

2 Days

Ao Nang is a resort town in the province of Krabi. It offers easy access to nearby Railay Beach, as well as to the many scenic spots in the area. There are dive trips and snorkeling excursions available as well as longtail boats that can take you along the coast. Popular destinations include Koh Hong, Koh Poda, and Koh Gai (Chicken Island).

Ao Nang brings plenty of visitors because it has nightlife and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families because of everything available.

What to See in Ao Nang

How to Spend 2 Days in Ao Nang

Day 1:

Don't miss the Island Boat Tours during your trip to Ao Nang, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

This town is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Ao Nang is a very walkable city. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Day 2:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Ao Nang is very popular. Spend the day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Public transit in Ao Nang is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Day Trips from Ao Nang

Several terrific day trip options are available from Ao Nang to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Ao Nang, see The Beach, Noppharat Thara Beach, and The Ao Nang Night Market.

Ao Nang Costs

Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Ao Nang is $136 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Ao Nang here.

Accommodation

Hotels

The average hotel room price in Ao Nang is $23 based on the average from 133 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Ao Nang here.

Suggested Hotels

Final Transportation

As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Bangkok.

Trains are a great way to get from Ao Nang to Bangkok, and you can see the train schedules and prices here.

Flying is fast, but usually the most expensive way to travel to Bangkok. You'll want to book your flight in advance to save money. See the airline schedules and prices here.

Buses from Ao Nang to Bangkok are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.

Next Steps

So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 15-day trip in Thailand, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!

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