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The Perfect 2 Week Thailand : Best of North & South! (2024)

August 25, 2024

Thailand is one of the all time favourite destinations. From glittering golden temples to ancient ruins, buzzing cities to tropical jungle, and some of the most gorgeous beaches and islands in the world – there’s so much to see in the Land of Smiles!

In fact, there’s so many amazing places to visit in Thailand that you may be wondering how to plan your trip and create the best Thailand itinerary so that you can fit it all in if you’ve only got 2 weeks vacation.

Luckily, with 14 days or 2 weeks in Thailand, you’ve got enough time to explore the best of both north and south. From the exciting metropolis of Bangkok, to the jungles and temples around Chiang Mai and island hopping in the south – it’s all possible if you plan your Thailand itinerary .

Figuring out the best way to spend 2 weeks in Thailand can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting Thailand. So we have put together the perfect 2 week Thailand itinerary created from  personal experiences following many, many visits and living in this amazing country to help you out.

 

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Tips for Planning your Thailand Itinerary

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to see all the highlights in both northern and southern Thailand. But if you want to tick lots of things off your Thailand bucket list in just a few weeks then you’re going to need to plan your 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary carefully.

You don’t want to ruin your Thailand vacation by planning a trip that’s too ambitious and end up exhausted and stressed out from trying to see too many places, but you also don’t want to miss somewhere amazing and regret it.

Many people only see Thailand’s islands and miss out on northern Thailand’s incredible sights and culture. It’s such a shame because they’ve only seen half of what this amazing country has to offer, so allow time for both in your Thailand itinerary.

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Why you need to see both North and South Thailand

The north and south of Thailand are quite different. In fact, the north of Thailand used to be the Lanna Kingdom and has it’s own distinct culture.

Highlights of northern Thailand include Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, where you can experience temples like Wat Rong Khun, traditional Thai culture, night markets, jungle adventures, trekking and elephant sanctuaries.

The south of Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world and famous for towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. There’s excellent snorkelling and scuba diving, pampering beach holidays, yoga retreats and easy island-hopping day trips through national marine parks – so you can’t miss the south either!

 

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Thailand

With 14 days or 2 weeks in Thailand you can explore the capital, Bangkok, and see the best of both north and south if you plan your itinerary well.

To enable you to see the most of Thailand in only 2 weeks there is a great network of low cost domestic flights which will save a lot of travel time. A more eco friendly way would be to take the night trains which will also save you a night of accommodation.

Another way to make the most of your time, and save yourself stress and energy, is to base yourself in places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket or Koh Samui and take day trips from there instead of moving around too much.

We recommend booking your transport, accommodation and tours in advance so when you get to Thailand you can just relax and enjoy your trip. Use our travel agency for hotels and accommodation,for day tours and day trips.

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Start your Thailand trip with a few days exploring the exciting capital Bangkok with a day trip to the floating markets and the ancient temples at Ayutthaya.

Then head north to Chiang Mai and explore the temples, culture and natural beauty of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai makes a good base for day trips around northern Thailand.

The incredible temples like Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai, the nature around Pai and the Golden Triangle are all well worth a visit. If you only have 2 weeks in Thailand we recommend taking day trips from Chiang Mai to save time and hassle.

Fly down to the south for some island hopping. On the west coast popular islands include Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi, while on the east coast you’ll find Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

It can be tempting to want to visit them all, but for a 2 week Thailand itinerary, you’ll probably find it more enjoyable to pick one side and relax instead of trying to fit all the islands in.

Whatever you decide, don’t forget to allow time in your itinerary to get back to Bangkok in time to catch your flight home!

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The Perfect 2 Week Thailand Itinerary Best of North & South

Here’s a quick summary of what  is the ideal Thailand itinerary for 2 weeks:

• Bangkok – (3 days)

• Chiang Mai – (3 days including day trip to Chiang Rai)

• East Coast Islands – Koh Samui (3 days) Koh Phangan (2 days) Koh Tao ( 2 days)
  Or

• West Coast Islands – Phuket (3 days) Koh Phi Phi (2 days) Krabi (2 days)

• Bangkok ( 1 day)

We will take you through day by day and give you plenty of tips on where to stay and how to get there to help you plan your Thailand itinerary and get the most out of your trip.

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Bangkok – 3 Days

The capital of Thailand is one of the most exciting cities in the world and has plenty of flight connections making it the ideal place to start your 2 week Thailand itinerary.

The streets of Bangkok are a truly fascinating mix of old and new, packed with temples, culture, food and a buzzing atmosphere. There’s plenty of things to see and do in Bangkok, from exploring golden temples and ancient waterways to indulging in the amazing street food and soaking up the views from a rooftop bar.

Allow at least 3 days to see Bangkok’s highlights and take a day trip out to ancient Ayutthaya. You’ll probably need to stay one more night in Bangkok at the end of your 2 week Thailand itinerary before you fly home so you could do the things you missed out then.

How to Spend 3 Days in Bangkok:

Day 1 – Temples and Tuk Tuks

 

Start your Bangkok itinerary with ticking off some of the city’s most famous and spectacular sights and diving into the cities’ vibrant nightlife.

Start with the stunning Grand Palace, a gorgeous glittering masterpiece that is the former royal residence and home to Wat Phra Kaew, (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha.)

Then visit Wat Pho and marvel at the huge, golden, reclining Buddha, and then cross the Chao Phraya River and try to time your visit to climb Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) for amazing views over the river and city beyond.

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As these temples are religious sites so both men and women need to dress respectively and remove footwear. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed so wear light weight trousers and cover your shoulders. If you forget you can hire a sarong.

There’s a few scams around the Grand Palace especially, and there’s so much detail to take in that I recommend doing this guided tour for the best experience. You’ll learn so much more  about Thai culture and spirituality this way and avoid the scams.

A good way to learn about Thai culture and history, and escape the heat, is with a visit to one of Bangkok’s air-conditioned museums. The National Museum and the Museum of Siam are the best and are not far away from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

 

One of the favourite things to do in Bangkok is riding down the Chao Phraya River and the smaller canals (klongs.) It’s a relaxing way to get around and take in the sights whilst enjoying the refreshing breeze.

There’s many ways you can experience the river – you can pile in a ferry with the locals, take the hop on hop off tourist boat or join an evening dinner river cruise with a buffet and entertainment.

If you want to get off the beaten track and see another side of Bangkok then take a colourful longtail boat tour and see local life in Thonburi (the oldest district) and down the smaller canals.

 

Bangkok really comes alive at night once the heat dies down. The temples and skyscrapers are illuminated., and the evening is the best time to explore the night markets and try the cheap and delicious street food stands that serve up fresh and tasty thai cuisine like pad thai.

One of the most fun ways to explore Bangkok at night is will a tuk tuk tour! Hold on because it can be quite a thrilling ride!

This night tuk tuk tour will zip you around Old Bangkok stopping at vibrant places like Chinatown, a colourful 24 hour flower market, and local street food markets. The guide will take you to the best street food stalls where they know the food is safe so it’s a great way to try the local cuisine and get to know Bangkok after dark.

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Day 2: Unique Shopping Experiences and Nightlife

 

After temples, another thing that Bangkok is famous for is shopping and nightlife, and there are some unique shopping experiences to be had!

For a unique shopping experience is the Damnoen Saduak floating market where vendors ply the canals with their wares and you cruise around on a longtail boat. Another interesting sight is the Maeklong railway market where you’ll experience the vendors jumping out of the way as the train comes through the market.

These markets are a bit out of the city so the easiest way to get there is with a tour. This floating market and railway market tour combines both into an easy half day trip.

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If you’re into shopping, Bangkok has some amazing modern malls. Some of the best, like Central World, Siam Discovery and MBK mall, are located close together at Siam Square.

Also nearby is Jim Thompson’s House where you can see some interesting old architecture, art and silks (and shop the collection.)

If it’s a weekend take the BTS to the massive Chatuchak weekend market if you want to shop for bargains and souvenirs to just enjoy the bustling vibe.

Once you’re shopped out, see the sunset at Wat Arun or The Golden Mount and then dive into Bangkok’s legendary, vibrant and fun nightlife at Khao San road at night

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Head down Sukhumvit Road for restaurants, bars, nightclubs and ,errm, adult entertainment! Then check out the infamous Khao San Road to drink buckets and party. Even if you’re not a backpacker, it’s a unique experience.

Or for a more refined experience you can sip cocktails at one of the trendy rooftop bars of the luxury hotels that line the river and soak up the views of the Bangkok skyline and city below.

The sky bar observation deck at Baiyoke Sky Hotel is one of the best. If you’re not scared of heights, another cool thing to do is the glass bottomed 78th floor observation deck and skywalk at the MahaNakon Tower.

Day 3 – Ancient Ayutthaya - Go KANCHANABURI

 

On your last day in Bangkok take a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya. This UNESCO world heritage site was the former Thai capital and you can explore the ruins of the old city, palaces and temples including the famous buddha head in a tree.

Ayutthaya is about 1 1/2 hours north of Bangkok and a guide will help bring the ruined city to life so you understand it’s importance. This Ayutthaya day trip includes transport, a knowledgeable guide and also visits the nearby former summer home of the Thai kings – Bang Pa-In Royal Palace.

A day trip to Kanchanaburi to see the famous Death Railway, Bridge over the River Kwai and the amazing 7 tiered waterfalls at Erawan National Park is also possible.

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How to get to Bangkok and get around

 

Bangkok has some of the best flight connections in Southeast Asia and receives many international flights from around the world.

The city has two airports, Suvarnabhumi international airport (BKK) – which handles mostly long haul international flights, and Don Mueang (DMK), for low cost flights with carriers like Air Asia with domestic flights around the rest of Thailand.

You’ll probably fly into Suvarnabhumi airport and start your Thailand itinerary there. The airport rail link that connects the airport to the BTS Sky train is the quickest and cheapest way to get into the city. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the Phaya Thai BTS station.

Taxis are available but will probably take longer if there is heavy traffic. Uber or Grab are easier if you don’t speak Thai. You can also ask your hotel if they offer an airport transfer or shuttle service or book an airport transfer.

Once in Bangkok the super modern BTS Skytrain and MRT Metro are the quickest way to get around. Tuk tuks can also be a fun way to explore the city but agree on the price before setting off.

There’s plenty of bus, train and flights from Bangkok offering easy onward travel around the rest of Thailand. If you only have 2 weeks in Thailand definitely consider taking a few budget flights with our agency as it will save you alot of time. 

 

Chiang Mai – 3 Days

Chiang Mai is a beautiful, historic and cultured city surrounded by the mountains of northern Thailand. It’s the country’s 2nd city but offers a much more peaceful experience than Bangkok with it’s walled Old City packed with ancient temples.

There’s so much to see and do in Chiang Mai that you should spend at least 3 days here. It also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding nature and the rest of northern Thailand, so should not be missed from any Thailand itinerary.

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Day 4 – Temple Hopping in Chiang Mai Old City

Start by exploring the walled Old City which dates back to 1296. Over 300 temples, plus the ancient walls and moat still stand today, making it a fascinating place to wander and learn about traditional Thai culture. There’s also plenty of cute cafes if you need to escape the heat.

Wake up early to witness the morning alms giving to the monks and then wander around the Old City. You’re not going to be able to see all the temples with 3 days in Chiang Mai, but you shouldn’t miss the elaborate Wat Phra Singh, the ruined stupa of Wat Chedi Luang, and the oldest temple – Wat Chiang Man.

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Chiang Mai’s most revered temple, the impossibly golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is perched up on a mountain overlooking the town. You can take a taxi or red truck (songthaew) to get there.

If you want to understand more about the history and meaning behind these stunning temples, consider this guided tuk tuk tour which will also take you another temple hidden in the jungle. I also loved the unique experience of this sunrise temple tour with a former monk. You can also chat with the monks at Wat Chedi Luang.

 

If you want to escape the mid-day heat, pop into one of the cute cafes like Stories, near Tha Pha Gate, or My Secret Cafe in Town, or dip into the air-conditioned museums.

The Chiang Mai Historical Centre, Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre, and the Lanna Folklife Museum are conveniently located near the Three Kings Monument in the Old City.

And if you’re feeling tired from all the exploring relax with a Thai massage at one of the many spas for cheaper prices than you’ll find on the islands of southern Thailand.For a luxury experience try Fah Lanna Spa or Makkha Spa. 

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If it’s a Sunday, don’t miss the massive sunday night walking street market which, starting at the Tha Pae Gate, takes over the Old Town. Here you can try local street food like Khao Soi and browse for souvenirs and handicrafts.

You can also visit the Chiang Mai night bazaar, near the riverside, which is open every night with food, stalls and live music.

Afterwards, check out Zoe in Yellow or North Gate Jazz Co-op in the Old Town, or head to the bars and clubs in Nimmanhiem that are popular with Thai students and digital nomads.

 

Day 5 – Thai Cooking Class and Ethical Elephant Encounters

If after trying all the yummy street food last night you’re feeling inspired to learn how to cook Thai food yourself book yourself on to a Thai cooking class.

After visiting the morning market you can learn to cook 11 delicious Thai dishes, (and eat them!) and get an insight into hill tribe life in northern Thailand from your guide from the Akha tribe.

If cooking’s not your thing there are plenty of other activities to try in Chiang Mai from Muay Thai boxing lessons to Buddhist meditation and yoga classes.

 

Chiang Mai makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains with many trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, white water rafting and kayaking trips on offer. So make sure you get out into nature, either by renting a scooter or joining an organised day trip.

While elephant sanctuaries and hill tribe treks are popular, not all of these activities are ethical, so check first and look for sanctuaries that do not allow riding for an ethical elephant experience.

The most reputable and ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai are the Elephant Nature Park and the Rescue Elephant Center where you can have a magical encounter with these gentle giants without harming them.

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Other unique nature experiences near Chiang Mai include visiting waterfalls and hot springs or taking a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park – Thailand’s highest peak.
 

Day 6 – Chiang Rai, White Temple and Golden Triangle 

Chiang Mai is a great base to do day trips to explore the rest of northern Thailand. If you had more time we would recommend spending a few nights in these places, but if you only have 2 weeks in Thailand the best way is to take an organised day trip like this one.

Chiang Rai is home to some of the most amazing temples in the world, including Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) which shouldn’t be missed from any Thailand itinerary.

 

Wat Rong Khun is one of the most amazing temples and sights I’ve ever seen. It’s more like an art exhibit than a temple, with intricate and interesting designs that you might not expect to see in a Thai temple.

Also in Chiang Rai is Baan Dum (the Black House), Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple), Thailand’s biggest Guan Yin statue, and the Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre.

It takes about 3 hours to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, if you also want to see the Golden Traingle, consider this Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle day trip.

As well as visiting the White Temple, you also visit hot springs, the opium museum and it includes lunch and a boat ride on the river where Thailand, Laos and Myamar (Burma) meet – the Golden Triangle. 

Even if you only have two weeks in Thailand you really must see the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun.

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Another popular place to visit is Pai, a small, laid back town nestled on the banks of the river in one of the most beautiful valleys in Thailand from where you can explore the surrounding forests, hot springs, waterfalls, mountains and Pai canyon.

Pai’s chill vibes and stunning nature have made it a popular hangout with relaxed, hippie vibes and plenty of cosy and colourful vegan and vegetarian cafes. There’s also bars with live music, a night market and walking street with all the Thai street food delights.

If you have 2 weeks in Thailand you could visit with this Pai day trip from Chiang Mai, but if you have more time then it’s better to stay at least 1 or 2 nights to soak up the relaxed, hippie vibes and gorgeous scenery of Thailand’s most beautiful valley.

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How to get to Chiang Mai From Bangkok

The quickest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by flight which takes about 1.15 hours. Chiang Mai’s airport (CNX) has both international and domestic flights with regular connections to Bangkok.

Budget airlines like Air Asia, Nok Air and Thai Lion fly from Bangkok’s Don Muang airport (DMK). Flights only take about 1 hour 15 minutes and will save you precious time if you only have two weeks in Thailand.

There are train services every day from Bangkok’s Hualamphong train station to Chiang Mai but I would recommend taking the sleeper train as it will save you time and can be a fun and comfortable experience if you get a sleeper berth with air con.

The overnight train journey takes about 11 hours and there’s a bar and restaurant car which sometimes turns into a bit of a party with the locals. The train gets booked quite far in advance but you can book it with us.

There are also modern buses which take about 10 hours from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, but if you’re planning a 2 week Thailand itinerary then I’d recommend taking either the night train or a flight to save time.

Thailand Island Hopping

The beaches and islands in Thailand are some of the very best in the world and it would almost be a crime to not include any beach time or island hopping in your Thailand itinerary!

There are hundreds of beautiful beaches and paradasical islands in Thailand but if you’re planning a 2 week Thailand itinerary you won’t be able to see them all – but you can see some of the best!

If you’ve got 2 weeks in Thailand then we recommend picking 2 or 3 neighbouring islands.

For diving, partying and relaxation head east to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand.

For beaches, long tail boats, and iconic limestone cliffs head west to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi in the Andaman Sea.

A great way to see more islands in a short period of time is to join fun island-hopping day trips. 

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How to get to the Thai Islands from Chiang Mai

The quickest way to get from Chiang Mai to the Thai islands is to take a flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket or Koh Samui. 

Bangkok Airways runs direct flights from Chiang Mai to both Koh Samui and Phuket which will take about 2 hours. There’s also airports at Krabi and Surat Thani. These domestic flights are all included if you book your tour with us.

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The Andaman Coast

Start off your island hopping adventure by flying to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand and pearl of the Andaman Sea.

Thailand’s Andaman Coast is where you’ll find the picture postcard beaches you’ve been dreaming of. Hundreds of emerald, jungle covered islands with soft white sands, sparking turquoise seas, towering limestone cliffs and colourful long tail boats.

The Andaman Coast is home to some of the most famous spots in Thailand like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi and is where movies like ‘The Beach‘ and ‘James Bond – The Man With The Golden Gun’ were filmed. Unsurprisingly it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, but the beauty still exceeds the hype.

 

Day 7 - 8 Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and known as the Pearl of the Andaman Sea. Sometimes it doesn’t feel so much like an island but it’s the best destination for those who want to experience a bit of everything in one easy package because there’s so many things to do in Phuket.

The island has a huge range of beaches, hotels, attractions, restaurants, bars, spas and tour packages. From island hopping boat trips, water sports, diving, snorkelling, zip lining, and white water rafting, to temples, elephant sanctuaries and night markets, there’s something for everyone in Phuket.

Patong Beach sometimes gets a bad reputation but away from Bangla road it’s actually a great family holiday destination with plenty of family friendly activities. Just make sure you allow time to relax on the stunning beaches – they are some of the best in the world!

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Once you’ve had your fill of the beach there is plenty of culture and history to explore in Phuket.

The legacy of Phuket’s history as a rubber and tin trade post is seen in the colourful and pretty old Phuket Town which blends many cultural influences with arty coffee shops, boutiques and galleries. It’s a delight to explore and very photogenic.

Other highlights include Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha statue which offers wonderful vistas from Phuket’s finest viewpoint. Taxis can be expensive in Phuket but this Phuket day tour visits all of them, plus a stunning viewpoint, for an affordable price and the guide will provide an interesting insight into Thai culture and Phuket’s history.

 

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring Sirinat National Park and Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife and Forest Reserve, home to the Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation project. 

Phuket makes a great base for exploring the hundreds of other beautiful Andaman sea islands. Tha Rassada, 3km south of Phuket Town, is the main pier for boats, ferries and day trips to the Phi Phi islands, Krabi and beyond. 

One of the best excursions from Phuket is to the insanely pretty (and popular) Koh Phi Phi islands and Maya Bay. For a more relaxing two weeks in Thailand itinerary we recommend just taking a day trip to Koh Phi Phi and Maya Bay.

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Another great day trip is the James Bond Island Trip which goes to Ao Phang Na National Park, Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island where you’ll see some of Thailand’s most spectacular sights, have lunch at a fishing village and have fun swimming and canoeing.

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Day 9 - Koh Phi Phi Don

The small islands of Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh are possibly the most beautiful islands in Thailand – and the most popular. It’s still worth visiting – just don’t expect to have the island to yourself!

These idyllic slices of tropical paradise framed by dramatic limestone cliffs shot to fame after the movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed in Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh.

The island still doesn’t have any roads but boat rides and treks through the jungle will lead you to discover quiet bays and the steep hike up to the Koh Phi Phi viewpoint is well worth it for the panoramic vistas.

There’s no accommodation on tiny Phi Phi Leh, and due to the island’s popularity you can no longer camp or swim in Maya Bay.

The best way to explore is with a long tail boat trip around the islands where you will get  to see Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, Pi Leh Lagoon and Bamboo Island with plenty of snorkelling and swimming spots.

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How to Get to Koh Phi Phi

Ferries regularly run to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket and Krabi. Either visit on a day trip from Phuket or stay on the island for a few days.The speedboat from Phuket is the quickest way and only takes 1 hour and this full tour is included in our packages.

 

Day 10-11  Krabi

Krabi Province is home to spectacular limestone karst formations that tower over the ocean, dense forests, a 150-kilometer white sandy coastline, and hundreds of tiny islands just outside of its shores. It’s just as beautiful as Phuket, but offers a more laid back experience.

Krabi province boasts over 150 islands and gorgeous beaches so there’s plenty to explore. If you only have a few days then make a beeline to Railay Beach. As Railay is cut off from the mainland by thick jungle and rugged cliffs getting there is an adventure in itself – it’s only accessible by boat.

Railay’s picturesque towering cliffs are a great spot for rock climbers. Other things to do here include swimming and relaxing on the beach and trekking up to the viewpoints. You can also visit the penis cave – a shrine to fertility.

After a day on the beach or island hopping, head to Krabi Town night market or enjoy the nightlife in Ao Nang.

Koh Lanta is also a good option if you want to escape the crowds.

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Where to Stay in Krabi

 

Ao Nang beach is one of the most popular (and busy) places to stay in Krabi accommodation options, bars, restaurants and shops for all budgets, but if you only have a few days in Krabi then it’s better to stay in Railay to soak up those tropical paradise island vibes.

Railay Beach West is the most beautiful,we love the Railay Bay Resort & Spa, a stunning beachfront property with a iconic view from the pool. If you’re on a budget head up the hill and you’ll find cheap bungalows and mid range rooms at Rapala Rock Wood Resort. 

On the mainland Krabi Town also has a range of good value budget hotels, a lively local night market, temple and pleasant waterfront (but no beach.) There’s also many other off the beaten track beaches and islands in Krabi 

How to get to Krabi

Boats take about 2.5 – 3 hours from Phuket and about 2 hours from Koh Phi Phi.

You can also take a minivan or taxi from Phuket to Krabi overland which takes about 3 hours (included in our tour packages)

Krabi also has an airport, so you can fly from Krabi back to Bangkok, or to Koh Samui if you wanted to explore both coasts.

 

The Gulf of Thailand

The Gulf of Thailand, on the East Coast, is home to three of Thailand’s best islands – Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

All offer beautiful beaches with powder soft sands, azure waters and boat trips to the stunning Ang Thong Marine National Park, but each have a different vibe and are all worth exploring. Their proximity to each other make for a fantastic and easy island hopping adventure.

If you’re visiting Thailand in July and August, these islands should have better weather than Phuket and the Andaman islands.

 

Day 12 - 13 Koh Samui

Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is Thailand’s second largest island and has everything you’d want from a tropical island – soft white sand beaches, clear turquoise oceans, swaying palm trees and plenty of resorts, eateries, spas, bars and wellness retreats.

While Koh Samui is well set up for tourists it’s also big enough to have retained it’s Thai side which you can explore in the many temples, local markets, and communities away from the beach resorts.

Highlights of Koh Samui are it’s natural beauty spots, relaxing beaches and warm tropical waters. One of the best things to do here is taking a kayaking and snorkeling tour to the sensational Ang Thong Marine National Park.

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If you want a dose of culture, there’s also plenty of temples to visit including Wat Phra Yai with its Big Buddha statue and the Secret Buddha Garden.

You can also trek to waterfalls, see the infamous phallic rock of Hat Lamai, visit an elephant sanctuary, take an off road jungle safari tour, ride an ATV through the jungle or splash about in the waterparks.

How to get to Koh Samui

Koh Samui’s airport (USM) makes getting to the island quick and easy.

Bangkok Airlines has a daily direct flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui which takes under 2 hours. There are also many flights via Bangkok that will take you about 4 hours in total.

You can also buy combined travel tickets with an overnight train from Bangkok, then bus and ferry rides to Koh Samui.

 

Koh Phangan

If you are a party person then you’ll want to plan your Thailand itinerary so that the dates you will be on Koh Phangan, also known as Koh Pha-Ngan, coincide with the date for the famous monthly Full Moon Party.

This massive party takes over the whole of Haad Rin beach and attracts tens of thousands of people every single month for a bucket list experience.

Deck yourself out in UV glow paint, sip on buckets of booze and party on the beach until sunrise with loud dance music blasting from the many bars along the beach.

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Koh Phangan also has a hippie, spiritual side with many yoga retreats and numerous meditation and tantra classes available on the other side of the island.

Nature lovers should head to Than Sadet Ko Phagnan National Park which has numerous waterfalls, secluded beaches, and gorgeous hiking opportunities. Phaeng Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall with a nice lookout point in the jungle. Also check out the pretty Chinese style Guanyin Temple.

How to get to Koh Phangan

Ferries from Koh Samui go regularly to Koh Phangan taking between 30 minutes and 1 hour, and then continue onwards to Koh Tao.

 

Koh Tao

The tiny turtle shaped island of Koh Tao is one of the best places not just in Thailand but in the whole world for scuba diving due to its colourful and vibrant coral reefs and warm tropical waters.

Koh Tao is one of the best, and cheapest, places in the world to do your PADI open water course and learn how to scuba dive.

Under the water you have the chance to see turtles, rays, whale sharks, and numerous other species of fish and wildlife.

 

PADI scuba diving courses normally take 4 days, so if you only have 2 weeks to spend in Thailand you could adjust this itinerary and spend less time on the other islands and still fit it all in to a 2 week Thailand itinerary.

Or if you just want to give diving a try you can also do a 1 day discover dive, or join one of the snorkelling boat trips.

The island is also home to many beautiful bays, groves, and secluded beaches. Don’t miss the trek up to the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint to take in the gorgeous panorama.

How to get to Koh Tao

The ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao takes about 1 hour. From Koh Samui it’s closer to 2 hours.

After Koh Tao, head back to Koh Samui for better onward travel options. Take a ferry and bus or train combination or catch a flight from Koh Samui back to Bangkok to catch your flight home.

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Day 14 - Back to Bangkok

 

Depending on where you end your island hopping trip fly from either Phuket, Krabi or Koh Samui back to Bangkok to catch your international flight home.

We recommend allowing time in your 2 week Thailand itinerary to get back to Bangkok with plenty of time to make your next flight in case of ferry or flight delays from the islands.

So spend one more night in Bangkok, eat some last pad thai, visit one more temple, get one more massage and do some last minute shopping and bring a bit of Thailand back home with you.