People traveling to Thailand have two reasons: to enjoy the pristine white sand beaches and experience its nightlife, or to immerse in Thai culture and have the time to recuperate.
Thailand has an enormous array of activities and tourist hotspots that even a week of stay would not be enough. But for those who can only go for a limited time, here’s a guide on what to do in Thailand for a week.
Purpose: Immerse in culture
Thailand has two sides–the one that elaborates its metropolitan lifestyle and the traditional way of living.
Bangkok is often regarded as the entryway for tourists into Thailand before heading off to the islands. It doesn’t boast of touristy destinations compared with other major cities in the world, but its bustling business districts are actually rich in Thai and Buddhist cultures.
On the other hand, Chiang Mai–the largest city in northern Thailand–is regarded as must-go for backpackers who want to explore the country’s mountainous side and immerse in the lives of its hill tribes.
Here’s the recommended Bangkok-Chiang Mai itinerary:
What to do in Thailand for a week
Bangkok and Chiang Mai
DAYS 1 & 2: Bangkok
Depending on the arrival to Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), tourists will find the eclectic streets of Bangkok worth exploring no matter what time of day.
It’s important to visit some of the most famous tourist hotspots in the mainland, like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Some tourists also spend their afternoons afloat a river cruise in the Chao Phraya river.
Some smaller temples are not-to-be-missed for guests who are killing time in Bangkok. Hire a tuk-tuk driver to explore the more accessible temples and markets.
The most popular backpacker go-to-market is the Khao San Road that’s flourishing with street foods and international restaurants, bars, shops and so much more.
Finally, you can cap off your Bangkok trip with a sunset view over the city at the Golden Mount.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Bangkok.
DAY 3: Chiang Mai
Located 700 kilometres north of Bangkok sits Chiang Mai, a province that travelers love because of its tranquil surroundings, elaborate Buddhism temples, and rich ancient culture. It’s known for the temples and unique museums, as well as tribal villages and sprawling gardens atop a mountain.
To get to Chiang Mai, board a 45-minute plane from Bangkok airport to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). From there, guests can check-in and freely explore the city.
For those who have more time in their hands, they can book a one-day tour around Chiang Mai or proceed directly to Doi Inthanon National Park. The Park itself will take up a whole day with its seven great waterfalls, trekking areas, and markets that offer some refreshment.
Another option is to see the old city temples or Chiang Mai Old City, which in itself is a living museum. It is lined with elaborate temples, old shophouses, and buildings that trace back to its unique heritage.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Chiang Mai.
DAYS 4 & 5: Mae Sai
There are buses and minivans available to help tourists get to Mae Sai from Chiang Mai. Upon arriving in Mae Sai, they can choose to explore the Tham Luang Cave or climb up to Wat Tham Pha Chom to meditate with the monks.
A scenic view atop Wat Phra That Doi will allow tourists to see a spectacular panoramic view of Tachileik in Myanmar.
Travelers are recommended to spend overnight at Nang Non Camping Ville to experience glamping by the river. The Ville is overlooking Tham Luang Cave, surrounded by lush gardens and magnificent waterfalls.
After recharging, travelers may head back to Chiang Mai to relax before heading back to Bangkok.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Mae Sai.
DAY 6: Chiang Mai
For those who still have enough time to spare, travelers can have the day off exploring the markets of Chiang Mai for souvenirs.
They can also close the day in Chiang Mai’s famous rooftop bars and meet other backpackers, or ask for bargains at the Night Bazaar along the intersection of Chang Klan and Loy Kroh roads.
Cabaret shows also briing this city to life at night, featuring Thailand’s most beautiful ladyboys that are both talented and witty.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Chiang Mai.
DAY 7: Bangkok
Depart Bangkok
Purpose: Enjoy white sand beaches & nightlife
Exploring what to do in Thailand for a week often involves going to its pristine whitesand beaches. Here’s a simple itinerary for people who want to escape their daily routine and be isolated on an island far away from home.
Bangkok, Koh Samui & Koh Pha Ngan.
DAY 1: Bangkok
Upon arriving at Bangkok Airport, travelers can either get cozy in their hotel or explore what the city has to offer. While it’s not recommended to go far, tourists can always spend their time in Khao San Road or check out the gorgeous sunset at the Golden Mount.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Bangkok.
DAY 2-3: Koh Samui
Koh Samui is an island rich in lavish resorts, frequented by tourists for its relaxing crystal-clear beach waters.
There are many options to go to Koh Samui from Bangkok. Travelers can book a flight to Surat Thani International Airport, ride a bus to Donsak Pier and proceed to riding a ferry to Koh Samui for one hour and 30 minutes.
Another option is to ride a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani then ferry to Koh Samui. However, this mode of transportation takes longer than riding a plane, but never less enjoyable.
Backpackers can spend their days relaxing on the beach of snorkeling around Koh Samui’s known islands. They can also take a boat ride around Ang Thong National Park, which has 42 islands.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Koh Samui.
DAYS 4 – 6: Koh Pha Ngan
Guests who head to Koh Pha Ngan visit the island for one reason: The Full Moon Party. Ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan travel on early mornings, so guests need to make sure they’re fully prepared to experience the pinnacle of their whole trip to Thailand.
During the day, travelers can explore Koh Pha Ngan’s lagoons and waterfalls. Some also join day tours around the island or go hiking.
There are many fun, and extreme activities tourists can do within the island, on top of partying with local and foreign backpackers who also thrive in the area. Scuba diving is also a preferred activity in Koh Pha Ngan, so guests can fully maximize this three-day stay on the island.
Before travelers leave, it’s also recommended to visit the Amsterdam Bar to marvel at sunset before departing Thailand. Share some drinks with strangers alongside the pool, while the DJ plays hit music on the background.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Koh Pha Ngan
DAY 7: Koh Pha Ngan
Ride a ferry back to Koh Samui, then another ferry to Surat Thani. From the ferry, you can take a bus going to the airport and head back to Bangkok. Make sure to leave early to catch the flight, or book the departure later in the evening to have enough time to travel.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Koh Pha Ngan
