Planning a trip to Thailand? This DIY travel guide brings together travel itineraries, destination highlights, packing tips and cultural advice to help you plan an unforgettable trip – without over-planning or overspending.
Travel Guides
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Thailand Itineraries
Our Family Thailand Itinerary is an in-depth guide featuring a realistic 2 week, well-paced itinerary covering some of Thailand’s stunning highlights from the relaxed island of Koh Samui, the stunning jungle scenery of Khao Sok to the intoxicating vibrancy of Bangkok.
Koh Samui→Khao Sok→Bangkok – Ideal for families and first time visitors who want a mix of beaches, nature and cities without rushing.
My Dream Thailand Itinerary from Northern Temples to Southern Islands features an itinerary inspired by real experiences and future plans.
Chiang Mai→Chiang Rai→Krabi→Koh Lanta→Bangkok – Ideal for families and travellers looking for a meaningful travel experience that balances culture and nature.
Places to Visit in Thailand
Northern Thailand – Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Northern Thailand provides a cultural contrast to the beaches. Chiang Mai is known for its historic old town, night markets, temples and surrounding mountains, making it a great base for slower travel and outdoor activities. Chiang Rai is quieter and more rural, with striking modern temples and scenic countryside. This region fits well into a Thailand trip for travellers who want culture, nature and a break from the coast.
Andaman Sea Coast – Phuket, Krabi & Phi Phi
Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast is famous for dramatic limestone cliffs, clear turquoise water and classic island scenery. Phuket is the main arrival point, offering everything from busy beach towns to quieter corners and boat trips. Nearby Krabi is known for relaxed beach resorts, jungle scenery and stunning spots like Railay Beach. The Phi Phi Islands sit offshore and are best known for snorkelling, swimming and postcard-perfect bays, making this coast ideal for first-time visitors and island hopping.
Gulf of Thailand Islands – Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao
The Gulf of Thailand islands offer a slightly different island experience, with gentler landscapes and a laid-back feel. Koh Samui is well developed and easy to navigate, popular with families and short-stay travellers. Koh Phangan combines quiet beaches with a lively party scene, while Koh Tao is a favourite for diving and snorkelling. These islands are often paired with Bangkok or northern Thailand for a balanced itinerary.
Koh Samui
Known for its beaches, laid-back vibe and island scenery, Koh Samui is a great place to slow down and relax.
My Koh Samui Best Things to Do guide recommends tropical beaches, day trips to remote islands, an ethical elephant sanctuary, stunning waterfalls, temples and more. Perfect for families and first-time visitors.
Khao Sok National Park
One of Thailand’s most stunning natural areas, Khao Sok is famous for the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world and the emerald Cheow Larn Lake with its limestone cliffs and floating bungalows – a real highlight for nature lovers.
My guide Khao Sok National Park Tree House Resort recommends the fantastic tree house resort where we stayed.
Discover the best places to visit in Khao Sok National Park for first-time visitors from floating bungalows, hiking up a jungle waterfall to exploring caves, and what to wear in the jungle.
Bangkok
Thailand’s energetic capital is packed with temples, markets and incredible food.
Our guide Things to Do in Bangkok highlights the best family friendly activities and places to visit for your first-time. From cultural experiences, inspiring temples, and a lesser-known floating market to an incredible skywalk, the most luxurious shopping mall, street food and rooftop cocktails.
Planning a Trip to Thailand
If you’re planning your trip independently, our How to Plan a Trip to Thailand in 10 Steps guide will help you plan and organise your trip – from deciding your ideal route and budget to finding cheaper flights, the best accommodation, transportation and activities. Also useful tips covering Thailand culture and law.
I focus on realistic planning, budgeting and logistics – the things that actually make a trip easier.
What to Pack for Thailand & What to Wear in Thailand
Thailand is hot, humid and culturally conservative in places, so packing wisely makes a big difference. Our guides What to Pack for a Thailand Holiday and What to Wear at Temples in Thailand cover everything from beach clothing to jungle and Temple visits. (Includes downloadable packing lists).
Where to Stay in Thailand
I’m gradually adding accommodation and hotel guides for Thailand. All our guides include recommendations of hotel accommodation based on in-depth research and personal experience.
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Start Planning Your Thailand Trip
| 🏩 Find Hotels 🛌 Find Hostels via Hostelworld ✈️ Find Flights via Skyscanner 🚗 Find a Rental Car via Rentalcars 🚌 Research Public Transport via 12GoAsia 🚞 Find Tours & Day Trips via Viator 🛄 Get Travel Insurance – Cover For You 👉 Check visa requirements on the Thai E-VISA website 🌍 How to Plan a Perfect Trip Itinerary – read our guide |