If you’re planning your first trip to Thailand, this 3 week Thailand itinerary will have you discovering magnificent Bangkok, swimming in breathtaking waterfalls, chatting to monks in ancient temples, chilling on pristine beaches, and much much more!
And we didn’t even mention the friendly locals, delicious Thai cuisine, and lots of affordable luxury accommodation.
It may seem like a dream that’s too good to be true, but we’ve personally experienced all these wonders and are thrilled to share this 3 week Thailand itinerary.
Get ready to discover the treasures of one of our all-time favorite countries.
3 Week Thailand Itinerary
Let’s find out what the 3 week Thailand itinerary will entail.
We’ll kick off in Thailand’s capital, bustling Bangkok, where we’ll immerse ourselves in vibrant city life and visit iconic temples and landmarks.
Before heading on 2-day trips with a lot of historical value, we’ll explore the ancient kingdom of Siam in Ayutthaya. The following day, we’ll journey to Kanchanaburi to visit the renowned Bridge over the River Kwai and witness some of the world’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
Then after an action-packed 4 day Bangkok, we’ll fly north to discover the rich cultural heritage of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Finally, we’ll head south for some island hopping, where we’ll unwind on gorgeous beaches, paradise island day trips, and explore the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea.
This 3 week Thailand itinerary begins with a flurry of activity but gradually transitions to a more laid-back pace in the second part. We just want to introduce you to as many experiences as possible!
| Day | 3 week Thailand Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 | Arrive at Bangkok Airport. Explore the city immediately with visits to Saket Temple (The Golden Mount), the Grand Palace, Wat Pho Temple (reclining Buddha), and Chinatown. Finish of the day on Ko San Road. | Bangkok |
| Day 2 | Take a riverboat cruise around the canals of Bangkok, visit Wat Arun, watch the locals in Lumphini Park, and finish the night with a drink in Soi Cowboy. | Bangkok |
| Day 3 | Take a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, to explore its fascinating historical sites, impressive ruins, and a Buddha head that has been taken over by tree roots. | Bangkok |
| Day 4 | A day trip to Kanchanaburi. Visit the real Bridge over the River Kwai. In the afternoon swim in some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. | Bangkok |
| Day | 3 week Thailand Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 5 | Take a flight to Chiang Mai. Wander through the historic Old City, surrounded by ancient walls and moats, and make sure to visit the ancient Wat Chedi Luang. | Chiang Mai |
| Day 6 | A day trip to the gorgeous serenity of Doi Inthanon National Park. After sunset find a wide array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. | Chiang Mai |
| Day 7 | The last day in Chiang Mai begins with a visit to Elephant Nature Park. Take in the views at Doi Suthep Temple for sunset. | Chiang Mai |
| Day 8 | Travel to Chiang Rai. Visit the scary, unique, and iconic architectural White Temple, followed by a trip to the stunning Blue Temple. In the afternoon drive to the Golden Triangle viewpoint where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Lastly, a visit to the Opium Museum to learn about the history and impact of opium in the region. | Chiang Rai |
| Day 9 | Explore the remarkable Nang Non Cave, where a dramatic rescue mission was conducted in 2018 to save 12 footballers and their coach trapped inside. | Chiang Rai |
| Day | 3 week Thailand Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 10 | Time to explore some paradise islands. Take a flight from Chiang Rai to Krabi and transfer to Ao Nang Beach. | Ao Nang |
| Day 11 | Visit the iconic Railay Beach which is just around the corner from Ao Nang Beach. | Ao Nang |
| Day 12 | Take a boat trip to Hong Island from Ao Nang. | Ao Nang |
| Day 13 | Transfer by minibus to Koh Lanta – Stay on the tranquil beach of Klong Nin. | Koh Lanta |
| Day 14 | Enjoy Klong Nin Beach, swim, snorkel, and have a massage. | Koh Lanta |
| Day 15 | Day trip to 4 Islands and Emerald Cave. | Koh Lanta |
| Day | 3 week Thailand Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 16 | Transfer to Phuket by fast boat from Koh Lanta. Explore Patong and visit the lively Bangla Road. | Patong |
| Day 17 | Last day for shopping, relaxing on the beach, and eating delicious Thai food. | Patong |
| Day 18 | Last day for shopping, relaxing on the beach, and eating delicious Thai food. | Patong |
| Day 19 | Relax during the day, explore the many markets, and in the evening go to a Muay Thai Boxing event in Bangla Stadium, or go to the award-winning Siam Niramit show | Patong |
| Day 20 | Last day for shopping, relaxing on the beach and eating delicious Thai food. | Patong |
| Day 21 | Depart from Thailand |
3 Week Thailand Itinerary in Detail
Now that you have the basic itinerary let’s look into it in more detail.
Day 1-4: Explore Bangkok and its Surroundings
Day 1: Start your 3 week Thailand Itinerary in Bangkok and embrace the madness of this brilliant city that never sleeps. Check into your hotel, and explore your new surroundings straight away.
Attractions to visit are:
- Visit the Grand Palace, an iconic landmark in Bangkok renowned for its intricate architecture and rich history.
- Explore Saket Temple, also known as the Golden Mount with panoramic views of Bangkok.
- Get blessed at Wat Pho Temple, famous for the 30-meter reclining Buddha. Stroll to Chinatown afterward.
- Finish the day on Khao San Road with a Pad Thai and a cocktail.
Day 2: Explore more of Bangkok
- Take a riverboat cruise along the city’s canals, offering scenic views and a glimpse into local life.
- Visit Wat Arun, an iconic temple with stunning architecture.
- Find tranquility in Lumphini Park, where locals gather to dance, exercise, and enjoy recreational activities.
- Lastly, a trip to Bangkok is not complete without experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Soi Cowboy, renowned for its neon lights, go-go bars, and late-night entertainment.
Day 3: A day trip to one of the capitals of the Siam Kingdom – Ayuthaya.
- Day trip – take a train or tour from Bangkok to Ayuthaya, an ancient city in Thailand renowned for its historical ruins and temples, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
Day 4: Enjoy another enriching day trip, this time to Kanchanaburi, known for its World War II history and its breathtaking natural scenery.
- Explore the renowned Bridge over the River Kwai, made famous by the iconic movie. Learn about the experiences of prisoners of war and reflect on the region’s turbulent history at the Hellfire Pass Memorial and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.
- In the afternoon immerse yourself in the refreshing beauty of Erawan Waterfall, where 7 cascading tiers of emerald water offer a serene retreat amidst nature’s finest.
Book your day trip from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi here.
Day 5-7: Chiang Mai – The Rose of the North
Day 5: Fly to Chiang Mai from Bangkok
- Explore Chiang Mai Old Town, a historic district filled with ancient city walls, moats, temples, and traditional architecture.
- Visit Wat Chedi Luang temple in the heart of the Old Town, and enjoy a chat with a monk Chat: Learn about Buddhism, Thai culture, and the daily life of Buddhist monks in this fun and free experience.
- Chiang Mai is the cultural and culinary hub of Thailand! The city has a plethora of bustling markets, each offering a unique experience. Here are the 7 Best Day and Night Markets in Chiang Mai to visit during your Chiang Mai trip.
Day 6: Take a day trip to the gorgeous serenity of Doi Inthanon National Park.
- After sunset, Chiang Mai comes alive, and discover more shopping, dining, and entertainment options around the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar area.
Day 7: Chiang Mai
- The last day in Chiang Mai begins with a visit to Elephant Nature Park.
- Take in the views at Doi Suthep Temple for sunset. Climb the Naga staircase to reach the temple and admire its golden and intricate architecture, with panoramic views of the city below. At night time discover
Follow us for our latest full-time travel adventures!
Day 8-9: Chiang Rai
Day 8: Transfer to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai
- Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). The temple represents the path to enlightenment and the evils in the world that will tempt you.
- Next up is The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) A stunning Temple that is renowned for its striking blue exterior.
- In the afternoon drive to the Golden Triangle viewpoint of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. followed by a visit to the opium museum.
Day 9: Explore one of the world’s greatest rescue operations.
- In 2018 12 young footballers and their coach got trapped in a cave for 13 days by floodwaters. Today you can visit the Tham Luang Cave for free and learn about this dramatic rescue.
Day 10-12: Krabi
It is now time to see some paradise beaches and islands!
- Fly from Chiang Rai to Krabi Airport and transfer to the stunning beach of Ao Nang with plenty of restaurants and bars to explore.
Day 11: Take a short boat ride to Railay Beach, relax, explore the stunning beaches, and indulge in water sports activities.
Day 12: Take a day-trip to the Hong Islands from Krabi. One of the most notable features of Hong Island is its hidden lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs covered in vegetation, to get there you either swim or kayak.
Day 13 -15: Koh Lanta
Day 13: Travel to Koh Lanta from Krabi (Ao Nang) Stay in the most relaxing place on the island – Klong Nin
Day 14: relax on the pristine beaches, snorkel in the clear waters, explore the island’s natural beauty, and watch sunset EVERY day!
Day 15: Take a boat trip for the day to explore 4 Islands and Emerald Cave.
Day 16-21: Phuket
This will be your last stop.
Spend your remaining days relaxing on the beach, exploring the nearby islands, shopping at the many night markets, and indulging in water sports activities before departing from Phuket International Airport.
Day 16: Travel to Phuket from Koh Lanta on a fast ferry. Stay in the most popular area of Patong, a bustling beach resort town known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling streets, and beautiful sandy beaches. Make sure to visit the madness on Bangla Road.
Day 17: Visitors can explore Phi Phi Island‘s natural beauty by snorkeling, diving, or taking boat tours to nearby attractions such as Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Tsunami Village, and Monkey Beach.
Day 18: Visit Phang Nga Bay on a day trip. This is a breathtakingly beautiful attraction known for its sky-high limestone cliffs rising out of the emerald-green waters. The most popular attraction is James Bond Island, a natural rock formation that appeared in “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
Want to witness some bioluminescence (The phenomenon where living organisms produce light through a chemical reaction within their bodies). We can highly recommend this Phang Nga Bay bioluminescence plankton and sea canoes tour.
Day 19: Spend your morning unwinding at the beach, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities. In the evening, you will have 3 choices of entertainment.
Immerse yourself in the excitement of Muay Thai Boxing at Bangla Stadium, or opt for the award-winning Siam Niramit, a spectacular show that explains the rich history of Thailand. Lastly, the most famous ladyboy show in Thailand is the Simon Cabaret Show.
Day 20: On your final day of this epic 3 week Thailand itinerary it is all about relaxing. Enjoy some sunshine at the beach, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, and treat yourself to a cocktail and Thai cuisine.
Day 21: Oh no, it’s time to go home……
But what an adventure! You may be returning home but now with a bag of memories in tow (maybe a few elephant souvenirs!) from the absolute best of Thailand, and no doubt a new thirst for South East Asia travel.
Tips
- Read this link for alternative day trips from Bangkok.
- Phi Phi island can be reached from Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Phuket.
- Muay Thai events at Bangla Stadium, Phuket, are only held 2 to 3 times a week.
- If you’re having a suit tailored in Phuket, make sure to get it down on arrival, and don’t wait till the last minute!
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
- WorldNomads – The best insurance company with the best fine print of all travel insurance companies. It is the number one choice for a reason!
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.
