Thailand in 12 days
Thailand
Embark on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Thailand in just 12 days. However, if you have more time, no worries - I got you covered with additional recommendations I have been adding to this guide.
This carefully curated itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience, from the bustling streets of Bangkok and the enchanting corners of Chiang Mai to the tranquil shores of Krabi and the natural paradise of Khao Sok. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of each destination, savoring local flavors, exploring historical treasures, and engaging with Thailand's unique traditions.
Index
General recommendations
Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Bangkok & Ayutthaya
- Day 4-6: Chiang Mai
- Day 7-9: Krabi
- Day 10-12: Khao Sok and back home
General recommendations
📅When was I there? December 2022 - Itinierary revised in 2023.
☀️Weather: Thailand boasts a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. November to February offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to visit. However, you should check area by area since the climate might vary.
✅Visa: Check the visa requirements based on your nationality and travel purpose before heading to Thailand. For many travelers, including citizens of EU countries, a passport with at least 6 months of validity upon entry is essential. Additionally, some nationalities might need to fill out an Arrival Card upon arrival.
💪🏻Healthcare: Consider travel insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.
💉Vaccination: Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before your trip, considering potential risks like yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and typhoid, especially if exploring rural areas.
🚨Safety: Thailand is generally safe, but stay cautious against petty theft, use reliable transportation, respect local customs, ensure food safety, and follow natural hazard guidelines. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited assistance or deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers might attempt to overcharge tourists or lead them to fraudulent activities.
💰Money: The Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency. Carry cash, and consider using a reliable currency exchange service like Revolut to avoid high fees.
📱SIM Card: It's easy to purchase prepaid SIM cards upon arrival at airports with AIS company: it works perfectly and you can share internet with others with hotspot. You can also buy Airalo eSIM directly from the app - it provides internet access but not a proper phone number.
🎒Luggage: I prefer traveling light to avoid checking in luggage. To ensure you do so while paying the minimum fair in Thailand, it's best to go with a backpack (that fits under the seat in front) and a funny pack or small bag. However, we used the trolley and had no trouble in avoiding checking it in.
👗Clothes: You can wear almost every clothes, but for visiting temples ensure to go with long trousers/ skirt/ dress (covering knees) and T-shirts covering shoulders (especially in Bangkok).
🚗Transportation: For intercity travel, both flights and vans are convenient options. Even night trains! Within cities, taxis and tuk-tuks are available, but always negotiate fares before getting in. Utilizing the Grab app, a ride-hailing service similar to Uber, can help you book taxis in advance.
🥙Local Cuisine: Indulge in Thailand's rich culinary scene, renowned for its vibrant flavors. Sample iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Khao Soy (in Chiang Mai) and Green Curry. Don't shy away from trying street food, but prioritize vendors with a clean and bustling presence to ensure a delightful and safe experience
⭐️Highly recommend: you'll see some stars along the text. Well, pay attention to them since they are my top tips for the trip.
💡Add-ons: find some additional options marked with a light bulb for you to tailor the trip to your preferences.
🙋🏽♀️Doubts?: If you have any questions you can reach me at my IG account.
Itinerary
BANGKOK & AYUTTHAYA
Day 1: Bangkok Arrival and Cultural Tastes
Arrive at Bangkok in the afternoon.
Check in at your hotel: Carlton Hotel in Sukhumvit.
Consider indulging in a traditional Thai massage at a local establishment near the hotel. ⭐️Take as much massages as you can!
Dinner at ⭐️Supanniga restaurant in Sathorn, offering delicious cuisine at reasonable prices.
After dinner, head to ⭐️Tichuka rooftop for captivating city views and delightful cocktails.
Day 2: Immersion in Bangkok's Culture
Explore the stunning ⭐️Grand Palace and marvel at the Reclining Buddha.
Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of ⭐️China Town, savoring the diverse street food offerings. You can eat a lot for less than 5€!
Evening dinner at ⭐️Anaconda, a nikkei restaurant for a fun-filled night.
Experience the exclusive ambiance of ⭐️Havana Social Club, a speakeasy-style nightclub.
Day 3: Venture to Ayutthaya's Rich History
Embark on a day trip to ⭐️Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the captivating temples, including Wat Ratburana, Wat Maha That, Wat Phra Ram, and ⭐️Wat Chai Wattanaram.
If you go back to Bangkok, experience the thrilling Sky Walk rooftop and/or treat yoursefl at ⭐️Blue Elephant, one of Bangkok's best restaurants.
💡If you decide to stay,pOpt for a tranquil evening stroll at Ayutthaya weekend Night Market if you stay overnight.
CHIANG MAI
Day 4: Exploring Chiang Mai
Fly to Chiang Mai early morning.
Check-in at De Chai the Deco Chiang Mai.
Explore the enchanting Old City of Chiang Mai and its different temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Sing, Wat Mahawan, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Lok Moli, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple).
Join the ⭐️Thai Farm Cooking half day course to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine for dinner.
Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Elephant Encounter
Continue your exploration of Chiang Mai's Old City, visiting the historic ⭐️Wat Chiang Man.
Engage in an immersive experience at ⭐️Patara Elephant Farm, where you'll interact with and care for elephants.
Attend an authentic ⭐️Muay Thai fight in the evening.
Day 6: Surrounding Wonders
Join a half-day tour to ⭐️Doi Suthep and admire its magnificent temple. I would not recommend adding Hmong Village to this tour - very touristy in my opinion.
Indulge in a rejuvenating Thai massage.
Delight in the vibrant atmosphere of ⭐️ Chiang Mai Night Market at Ploen Ruedee, savoring Khao Soi and live music.
💡More days?
- 1 day trip to Mae Taeng y Huai Nam Dang National Park: rice fields
- ⭐️1 day tri Chiang Dao National Park with Bua Tong Waterfall
- 1 or 2 days in Chiang Rai to see the white pagod
-⭐️ 2 days in Pai and enjiy slow life
KRABI
Day 7: Island Adventure and Sunset Splendor
Fly to Krabi early morning.
Check-in at ⭐Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.
Begin your Krabi journey with relaxation and a quick meal.
Embark on a mesmerizing 7 island Sunset tour, reveling in the beauty of the islands and snorkeling opportunities.
Day 8: Railay Bliss
Take a long tail boat to ⭐Railay beach and caves from Ao Nang and explore Railay beach and its captivating caves.
Enjoy fire spectacle in the beach.
Day 9: Scenic Views and Relaxation
Opt for the ⭐️Hong Island tour, for enjoying a lovely beach, with breathtaking views from Hong's viewpoint.
Recharge with a tranquil sunset and cocktails, possibly at the hotel's viewpoint or the beach.
Enjoy an Oil Aroma Massage for ultimate relaxation.
Treat yourself to dinner at ⭐️Cafe 8.98.
💡More days?
- Phi Phi 1 day tour
- Krabi Short Earth Tour: Hiking in Wat Tham Sua or Tiger Cave Temple (physically demanding), Ride to Emerald Pool located inside Thung Teao Forest Natural Park and Dip into Klong Thom Hot Springs. Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are the most famous landmarks in Krabi, they sit either side of the river and are a real natural wonder. - Klong Thom Hot Springs
- You can also find Thai Cooking courses and Elephant riding, although they are cheapper in Chiang Mai
- You explore other farther areas like ⭐Ko Lipe, ⭐Surin & Similan. These are both very good spots for diving.
KHAO SOK & BACK HOME
Day 10: Getting to Khao Sok
Take a Van to Khao Sok (5hs).
Check in at Khao Sok River Home Resort.
Do a quick hike through the forest.
Day 11: Exploring Khao Sok
Take a one day trip into ⭐️Khao Sok's nature with the Cheow Lan Lake tour.
Day 12: Returning to Bangkok and Home
Take early flight back to Bangkok and home.
💡OTHER PLACES TO CONSIDER
If you have more time or you are at a different time of the year, consider:
- ⭐Ko Tao, also good for diving (better in june-august)
- ⭐️Koh Chang, Koh Kut, Koh Mak islands: beautiful beaches not so far away from Bangkok. Koh Kood not crowded.
Thailand in 12 days
Thailand
Embark on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Thailand in just 12 days. However, if you have more time, no worries - I got you covered with additional recommendations I have been adding to this guide.
This carefully curated itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience, from the bustling streets of Bangkok and the enchanting corners of Chiang Mai to the tranquil shores of Krabi and the natural paradise of Khao Sok. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of each destination, savoring local flavors, exploring historical treasures, and engaging with Thailand's unique traditions.
Index
General recommendations
Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Bangkok & Ayutthaya
- Day 4-6: Chiang Mai
- Day 7-9: Krabi
- Day 10-12: Khao Sok and back home
General recommendations
📅When was I there? December 2022 - Itinierary revised in 2023.
☀️Weather: Thailand boasts a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. November to February offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to visit. However, you should check area by area since the climate might vary.
✅Visa: Check the visa requirements based on your nationality and travel purpose before heading to Thailand. For many travelers, including citizens of EU countries, a passport with at least 6 months of validity upon entry is essential. Additionally, some nationalities might need to fill out an Arrival Card upon arrival.
💪🏻Healthcare: Consider travel insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.
💉Vaccination: Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before your trip, considering potential risks like yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and typhoid, especially if exploring rural areas.
🚨Safety: Thailand is generally safe, but stay cautious against petty theft, use reliable transportation, respect local customs, ensure food safety, and follow natural hazard guidelines. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited assistance or deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers might attempt to overcharge tourists or lead them to fraudulent activities.
💰Money: The Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency. Carry cash, and consider using a reliable currency exchange service like Revolut to avoid high fees.
📱SIM Card: It's easy to purchase prepaid SIM cards upon arrival at airports with AIS company: it works perfectly and you can share internet with others with hotspot. You can also buy Airalo eSIM directly from the app - it provides internet access but not a proper phone number.
🎒Luggage: I prefer traveling light to avoid checking in luggage. To ensure you do so while paying the minimum fair in Thailand, it's best to go with a backpack (that fits under the seat in front) and a funny pack or small bag. However, we used the trolley and had no trouble in avoiding checking it in.
👗Clothes: You can wear almost every clothes, but for visiting temples ensure to go with long trousers/ skirt/ dress (covering knees) and T-shirts covering shoulders (especially in Bangkok).
🚗Transportation: For intercity travel, both flights and vans are convenient options. Even night trains! Within cities, taxis and tuk-tuks are available, but always negotiate fares before getting in. Utilizing the Grab app, a ride-hailing service similar to Uber, can help you book taxis in advance.
🥙Local Cuisine: Indulge in Thailand's rich culinary scene, renowned for its vibrant flavors. Sample iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Khao Soy (in Chiang Mai) and Green Curry. Don't shy away from trying street food, but prioritize vendors with a clean and bustling presence to ensure a delightful and safe experience
⭐️Highly recommend: you'll see some stars along the text. Well, pay attention to them since they are my top tips for the trip.
💡Add-ons: find some additional options marked with a light bulb for you to tailor the trip to your preferences.
🙋🏽♀️Doubts?: If you have any questions you can reach me at my IG account.
Itinerary
BANGKOK & AYUTTHAYA
Day 1: Bangkok Arrival and Cultural Tastes
Arrive at Bangkok in the afternoon.
Check in at your hotel: Carlton Hotel in Sukhumvit.
Consider indulging in a traditional Thai massage at a local establishment near the hotel. ⭐️Take as much massages as you can!
Dinner at ⭐️Supanniga restaurant in Sathorn, offering delicious cuisine at reasonable prices.
After dinner, head to ⭐️Tichuka rooftop for captivating city views and delightful cocktails.
Day 2: Immersion in Bangkok's Culture
Explore the stunning ⭐️Grand Palace and marvel at the Reclining Buddha.
Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of ⭐️China Town, savoring the diverse street food offerings. You can eat a lot for less than 5€!
Evening dinner at ⭐️Anaconda, a nikkei restaurant for a fun-filled night.
Experience the exclusive ambiance of ⭐️Havana Social Club, a speakeasy-style nightclub.
Day 3: Venture to Ayutthaya's Rich History
Embark on a day trip to ⭐️Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the captivating temples, including Wat Ratburana, Wat Maha That, Wat Phra Ram, and ⭐️Wat Chai Wattanaram.
If you go back to Bangkok, experience the thrilling Sky Walk rooftop and/or treat yoursefl at ⭐️Blue Elephant, one of Bangkok's best restaurants.
💡If you decide to stay,pOpt for a tranquil evening stroll at Ayutthaya weekend Night Market if you stay overnight.
CHIANG MAI
Day 4: Exploring Chiang Mai
Fly to Chiang Mai early morning.
Check-in at De Chai the Deco Chiang Mai.
Explore the enchanting Old City of Chiang Mai and its different temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Sing, Wat Mahawan, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Lok Moli, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple).
Join the ⭐️Thai Farm Cooking half day course to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine for dinner.
Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Elephant Encounter
Continue your exploration of Chiang Mai's Old City, visiting the historic ⭐️Wat Chiang Man.
Engage in an immersive experience at ⭐️Patara Elephant Farm, where you'll interact with and care for elephants.
Attend an authentic ⭐️Muay Thai fight in the evening.
Day 6: Surrounding Wonders
Join a half-day tour to ⭐️Doi Suthep and admire its magnificent temple. I would not recommend adding Hmong Village to this tour - very touristy in my opinion.
Indulge in a rejuvenating Thai massage.
Delight in the vibrant atmosphere of ⭐️ Chiang Mai Night Market at Ploen Ruedee, savoring Khao Soi and live music.
💡More days?
- 1 day trip to Mae Taeng y Huai Nam Dang National Park: rice fields
- ⭐️1 day tri Chiang Dao National Park with Bua Tong Waterfall
- 1 or 2 days in Chiang Rai to see the white pagod
-⭐️ 2 days in Pai and enjiy slow life
KRABI
Day 7: Island Adventure and Sunset Splendor
Fly to Krabi early morning.
Check-in at ⭐Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.
Begin your Krabi journey with relaxation and a quick meal.
Embark on a mesmerizing 7 island Sunset tour, reveling in the beauty of the islands and snorkeling opportunities.
Day 8: Railay Bliss
Take a long tail boat to ⭐Railay beach and caves from Ao Nang and explore Railay beach and its captivating caves.
Enjoy fire spectacle in the beach.
Day 9: Scenic Views and Relaxation
Opt for the ⭐️Hong Island tour, for enjoying a lovely beach, with breathtaking views from Hong's viewpoint.
Recharge with a tranquil sunset and cocktails, possibly at the hotel's viewpoint or the beach.
Enjoy an Oil Aroma Massage for ultimate relaxation.
Treat yourself to dinner at ⭐️Cafe 8.98.
💡More days?
- Phi Phi 1 day tour
- Krabi Short Earth Tour: Hiking in Wat Tham Sua or Tiger Cave Temple (physically demanding), Ride to Emerald Pool located inside Thung Teao Forest Natural Park and Dip into Klong Thom Hot Springs. Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are the most famous landmarks in Krabi, they sit either side of the river and are a real natural wonder. - Klong Thom Hot Springs
- You can also find Thai Cooking courses and Elephant riding, although they are cheapper in Chiang Mai
- You explore other farther areas like ⭐Ko Lipe, ⭐Surin & Similan. These are both very good spots for diving.
KHAO SOK & BACK HOME
Day 10: Getting to Khao Sok
Take a Van to Khao Sok (5hs).
Check in at Khao Sok River Home Resort.
Do a quick hike through the forest.
Day 11: Exploring Khao Sok
Take a one day trip into ⭐️Khao Sok's nature with the Cheow Lan Lake tour.
Day 12: Returning to Bangkok and Home
Take early flight back to Bangkok and home.
💡OTHER PLACES TO CONSIDER
If you have more time or you are at a different time of the year, consider:
- ⭐Ko Tao, also good for diving (better in june-august)
- ⭐️Koh Chang, Koh Kut, Koh Mak islands: beautiful beaches not so far away from Bangkok. Koh Kood not crowded.