How to Spend One Week in Thailand – 7 Days Itinerary

Thailand is South East Asia’s most popular destination and with modern cities, pristine beaches and impressive countryside it is not hard to see why. With such a great variety of things to see and do in Thailand many people ask if one week in Thailand is enough time?

Well, If you spend your time wisely, plan a one-week in Thailand itinerary in advance and stick to it then you can cover ‘the basics’ of Thailand in one week.

Beach holidays are a popular option for many who have just one week in Thailand but with easy and affordable public transport it is possible to cover a lot of ground in one week in Thailand, ticking off as many sights and attractions as possible. Here are our top tips for what to do in one week in Thailand and where to go!

The most popular attractions to spend one week in Thailand are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Pattaya, Chiang Rai, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Samui, Ayutthaya, Koh Chang, Mae Hong Son, Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai.

Is one week in Thailand enough?

It is possible to spend a week in Thailand and have a good time, but it really depends on what you want to do and see. Thailand is a large and diverse country with many different attractions and activities, so it’s difficult to say whether one week is enough without knowing more about your interests and priorities.

If you’re interested in experiencing the culture and history of Thailand, you may want to spend some time in the capital city of Bangkok, visiting temples and markets and learning about Thai cuisine. You might also want to visit some of the other major cities in the country, such as Chiang Mai or Phuket.

If you’re more interested in natural beauty and outdoor activities, you might want to spend some time in the northern region of Thailand, where you can visit national parks, go trekking, and see some of the country’s beautiful waterfalls. You could also visit the beaches on the southern coast, where you can relax on the sand, go snorkeling or diving, or take a boat trip.

Ultimately, whether one week is enough to see everything you want to see in Thailand will depend on your interests and the specific activities and attractions you want to experience.

If this is your first trip to Thailand, I recommend most of your time in the capital city, Bangkok. 7 days in Thailand is enough to see Bangkok and surrounding district such as Pataya and Huahin. Thailand is one of the famous holiday destination in the world, you can alway come back to see other parts of the city like Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui.

To make the most of your visit, I recommend to book hotel in Sukhumvit. Sukhumvit has a central location with a wide range of accommodations that suits all budget. With its well-connected public transport by BTS and MRT, you can easily travel around. Plus, you will be located within walking distance to many nightlife, shopping, and dining.

💖 Best Area for first-timers:Sukhumvit – Bangkok
💎 Best luxury hotel:Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal21
🏨 Best mid-range hotel:Kokotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 50
💰 Best budget hotel:Rezt Bangkok

One Week in Thailand Cost

With just one week in Thailand you can chose to splurge or save! Thailand is an integral part of the South East Asia backpacking route and as such is home to hundreds of super cool hostels and guesthouses, starting from just $3 a night!

With street food on every corner eating out doesn’t have to break the bank and swimming in the sea and sunbathing will forever be free. In that respect, not including flights, you could spend one week in Thailand for less than $250 and still feel like you’ve lived like a King.

For those who really do want to live like Kings then one week in Thailand can cost the earth! Travel in private cars, eat at the best luxury restaurants in town and stay at the best suite at a 5 Star hotel that just to happens to have its own private beach for you to enjoy.

One week in Thailand what to do

1. Bangkok

Bangkok Thailand
Bangkok Thailand

East meets West in Thailand’s buzzing capital Bangkok. Home to eight million people you will always be able to find a friend in Bangkok. You could easily spend your one week in Thailand in Bangkok, with temples, museums, markets and more to explore!

Obviously, the cost of living in Bangkok is steeper than on the islands but for city lovers, Bangkok has plenty on offer at very reasonable prices. Street food and staying at budget hostels are an easy way to keep costs down but if you have a bigger budget there is a great range of mid to high-end hotels to choose from, many that boast impressive cityscape views and swimming pools.

Although incredibly cliched, no trip to Bangkok would be complete without a trip to Khao San Road, if the South East Asia backpacking route had a beating heart it would be in the form of Khao San Road.

From travelers fresh off the plane to the hippies of the 70s that arrived and never left Khao San Road is a great way to let your hair down and party the nights of your one week in Thailand away.

For those who are seeking a more spiritual and cultural experience then Bangkok’s wonderful Buddhist temples complexes are a must-visit. Aside from the Grand Palace with its breathtaking bejeweled exterior and ornate internal decor, there are a number of other temples that are equally as impressive on a smaller scale.

Wat Arun with its steep steps and traditional architecture offers views of Chao Phraya and the city panorama. Wat Pho is home to the golden reclining Buddha which is a sight to behold.

A destination of great sacred significance to Buddhists enter the temple with respect and calmness in mind. The temples of Thailand welcome visitors of any faith provided they are respectfully dressed and allow others to perform their religious rituals in peace.

Other best things to do and see in Thailand include Chatuchak Market, Siam Paragon, Bangkok National Museum, Nana Plaza (Soi 4), Sathorn Unique Tower, Lumpini Park, Chinatown, Kickboxing (Muay Thai), Dusit Zoo, Water Fight During Songkran, Bangkok Puppet Show, Jim Thompson House, Wat Arun, Erawan Shrine.

See Also: 

2. Phuket

When you have just one week in Thailand where to go is a key question. Easy answer…the beach. With some of the world’s best beaches you would be a fool not to head to the coast during your time in Thailand.

Phuket is a popular beach holiday destination for many travellers and is a well designed tourist destination. With pristine beaches and clear blue seas Phuket has been Thailand’s beach hot spot for decades. Restaurants and bars that line the beach front are well versed in the needs of the traveler and serve western food and traditional Thai dishes. Menus are available in English too for complete ease of ordering.

Phuket is a great way to spend one week in Thailand to kick back, relax and soak up the sun. With live music every night and full moon parties every month you will certainly have a memorable experience in Phuket regardless of your budget!

In terms of what to do for one week in Thailand you can’t go far wrong by choosing Phuket, with Phuket Old Town opening every night for Thailand’s famous night markets you won’t be going home empty handed. Thailand’s night markets are full of quality and quirky souvenirs to purchase so you can keep a piece of Thailand with you wherever you go!

Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi islands, Big Buddha of Phuket, Party in Bangla Road, Chalong Temple, Similan Islands, Samet Nangshe viewpoint, Karon Viewpoint, Plane Spotting on Mai Khao Beach, Watch a sunset at Prompthep Cape, James Bond Island, Simon Cabaret Show, Black Rock Viewpoint, Phuket Waterparks, Phuket Aquaria, Koh Panyi island are some of the best things to do in Phuket.

You can combine your one week in Thailand in Phuket with Bangkok, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi.

Phuket Thailand
Phuket Thailand

Read Also:

3. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s relaxed and laid back second city located eight hours North of Bangkok. Easily accessible by night bus, train or flight Chiang Mai is the perfect mix of city living, culture and night-life. The best night markets can be found in Chiang Mai and although the biggest market is ran on Sunday nights there are stalls open every night in the market complex.

Chiang Mai is famed for Muay Thai and is a great place to get yourself in shape. Enroll on a one week Muay Thai boot camp or if you just fancy a taster session sign up for a one hour introduction and one of the many Muay Thai gyms spread about the city.

If those of you how see their one week in Thailand as a more passive affair get yourself tickets to a live May Thai match and cheer along from the side lines. Many profession Muay Thai boxers from around the world come to Chiang Mai to train so it’s very likely you’ll get the chance to see a fighter from your home country perform!

Best things to do in Chiang Mai are Doi Suthep, Nimmanhaemin Road, San kamphaeng Road, Doi Inthanon National Park, Warorot Market, Mae Ping River, Night Bazaar, Wat Phra Singh, Ruins Of Wat Chedi Luang, Bai Orchid And Butterfly Farm, Long Neck Karen Tribe, Loi Krathong Festival, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, Weekend Market.

Chiang Mai is a foodie’s paradise! From freshly fried street food to little vegan cafes for those who have visited before you just uttering the words Chiang Mai will get their mouths watering! This 24-hour city has food available around the clock, in that respect one week in Thailand is not enough if you want to experience all the food on offer!

Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai

See Also:

4. Koh Phi Phi

Phi phi Island Phuket
Phi phi Island Phuket

If a beach holiday is your thing but you don’t fancy staying in one place then island hopping is the choice for you and one week in Thailand is the perfect amount of time to explore the islands of the Andaman Sea at your own pace.

Koh means island in Thai and as such all the islands are names Koh…something! Koh Phi Phi is are the most popular collection of islands and are in fact protected National Parks. Immaculate, vast empty beaches than meet cool blue seas produce simple breathtaking coastal vistas at Koh Phi Phi, not to mention the palm trees that are just asking to have a hammock tied to them!

Maya Beach on Koh Phi Phi became world-famous when it was used as the backdrop for Leonardo Di Caprio’s The Beach and attracts visitors from the world over for that very reason. Smaller more remote islands like Koh Chang or Poda Island are great for diving and snorkeling. Many tour companies on the mainland run daily boat tours to the best snorkeling spots around the islands and provide all the kit you need.

Best things to do in Koh Phi Phi: Koh Phi Phi Leh, Phi Phi Viewpoint, Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Moo Dee Bay, Rock climbing, Shipwrecked Boat Trip in Phi Phi.

You could set yourself a rigorous itinerary before you begin your journey to Thailand but when it comes to island hopping go with the flow, head to the beach in the early morning and chat to the boatman and see where they are headed today…a bit of insider knowledge can go a long way too and they may even take you to some secret snorkeling spots!

5. Ko Samui

Ko Samui is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 80 kilometers off the eastern coast of the mainland. It is the second largest island in Thailand and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and tropical climate.

Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some things you can do while visiting Koh Samui:

Visit the beaches: Koh Samui has many beautiful beaches to choose from, including Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach. You can relax on the sandy shores, go swimming, or participate in water sports such as snorkeling and jet skiing.

Explore the islands: Koh Samui is surrounded by a number of smaller islands that can be visited by boat. Some popular options include Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Nang Yuan.

Visit the temples: Koh Samui has a number of cultural and historical attractions, including several temples. Wat Plai Laem is a popular temple known for its large statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.

Go shopping: Koh Samui has a number of markets and shopping centers where you can find local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market is a popular place to shop for souvenirs and local products.

Enjoy the nightlife: Koh Samui has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Chaweng Beach is a popular area for nightlife, with many bars and clubs open late into the night.

Take a cooking class: If you’re interested in Thai cuisine, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of the country’s most popular dishes. Many cooking schools in Koh Samui offer classes for all skill levels.

Visit the natural attractions: Koh Samui has a number of natural attractions to explore, including waterfalls, gardens, and national parks. The Namuang Waterfall is a popular destination, with two cascading falls and a pool at the base where visitors can swim.

6. Ko Phangan

Koh Phangan is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Here are some ideas for things to do while visiting the island:

Visit the Full Moon Party: The Full Moon Party is a famous monthly beach party that takes place on Haad Rin Beach on Koh Phangan. The party attracts thousands of visitors and features live music, fire shows, and a variety of food and drink stalls.

Explore the island’s beaches: Ko Phangan has many beautiful beaches to explore, including Haad Rin, Haad Yuan, and Haad Salad. These beaches offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Take a boat tour: A boat tour is a great way to see the island and its surrounding areas. You can visit nearby islands, go snorkeling or diving in the Gulf of Thailand, or simply relax on the boat and enjoy the scenery.

Visit the Mae Haad Pier: The Mae Haad Pier is a popular spot for watching the sunset and taking in the views of the island. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.

Go elephant trekking: Elephant trekking is a popular activity on Koh Phangan, where you can ride an elephant through the jungle and visit local villages. There are several reputable companies that offer elephant trekking tours, and it’s a great way to learn more about these amazing animals.

Visit the Wat Phu Khao Noi Temple: This temple is located on a hill overlooking the island and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The temple is a peaceful place to relax and take in the beauty of Koh Phangan.

7. Chiang Rai

There are many things to do and see in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Here are a few suggestions:

Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): This beautiful temple is known for its ornate white and silver color scheme and intricate details. It is a popular tourist attraction in Chiang Rai and is definitely worth a visit.

Explore the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar: The Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is a great place to shop for souvenirs, try local food, and see local entertainment.

Visit the Golden Triangle: The Golden Triangle is the point where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. It is a popular tourist destination and you can take a boat tour along the Mekong River to see the area.

Visit the Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park: This park is home to a number of cultural attractions, including a traditional Lanna village, a museum, and a botanical garden.

Visit the Chiang Rai Clock Tower: This iconic clock tower is a popular landmark in the city and is located in the center of Chiang Rai. It is a great place to take photos and get a sense of the local culture.

Go trekking in the surrounding hills: The hills around Chiang Rai are home to a number of beautiful hiking trails, and you can explore the local countryside and see stunning views of the region.

Visit the Chiang Rai Saturday Walking Street: Every Saturday, the main street in Chiang Rai is closed to traffic and transformed into a bustling market street. It’s a great place to shop for local goods and try local food.

8. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical city in Thailand that was once the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. There are many interesting things to see and do in Ayutthaya, including:

Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park: This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many ancient temples, palaces, and other historical sites.

Take a boat tour: Ayutthaya is a city built on an island surrounded by three rivers, so taking a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

Visit the Wat Mahathat temple: This temple is one of the most famous in Ayutthaya and is home to the famous “Buddha’s head in the tree roots” statue.

Check out the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Elephant Museum: This is a great place to learn about the history of elephants in Thailand and see some of these majestic animals up close.

Explore the local markets: Ayutthaya has many interesting markets where you can find local handicrafts, food, and other souvenirs.

Visit the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: This museum is home to a large collection of artifacts and other historical items related to the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Try some local food: Ayutthaya is known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local specialties like khao kha mu (stewed pork leg with rice) and kanom jeen nam ya (noodles in fish curry).

9. Koh Tao

Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. Here are some activities you can do while visiting Koh Tao:

Dive or snorkel in the clear waters around the island. Koh Tao is known for its excellent diving and snorkeling, with over 20 dive sites to choose from. You can see a wide variety of marine life, including colorful coral, tropical fish, and even sea turtles.

Take a Muay Thai boxing class. Koh Tao is home to several Muay Thai boxing schools, where you can learn the traditional martial art and get in a great workout at the same time.

Hike to Mae Haad Pier and Sairee Beach. The island has several trails that lead to some of the most beautiful spots on the island. Mae Haad Pier and Sairee Beach are two popular destinations, both of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Explore the island by bike or scooter. Rent a bike or scooter and explore the island at your own pace. You can visit small villages, temples, and other points of interest along the way.

Visit the Mae Haad Pier and learn about the island’s history. The Mae Haad Pier is a popular spot for tourists, and it’s also home to a small museum that tells the story of Koh Tao’s history.

Relax on the beach. Koh Tao has several beautiful beaches where you can relax, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal clear waters. Some popular beaches include Sai Nuan Beach, Mae Haad Beach, and Shark Island Beach.

Go rock climbing. Koh Tao is home to several rock climbing sites, offering routes for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

Take a cooking class. Learn how to cook some of Thailand’s most famous dishes, such as tom yum soup and green curry, at one of the island’s cooking schools.

Visit Koh Nang Yuan. Koh Nang Yuan is a small island located just off the coast of Koh Tao. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, and it also offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

10. Pai

Pai is a small town in the Mae Hong Son province of Thailand, known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Here are some suggestions for things to do while you’re there:

Visit the Pai Canyon: This beautiful natural attraction is located just a few kilometers outside of town. You can take a leisurely hike through the canyon, or take a more strenuous climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Take a tour of the nearby hot springs: Pai is home to several hot springs that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Many tour companies offer trips to these hot springs, where you can soak in the warm waters and relax.

Visit the Pai Memorial Bridge: This iconic bridge, located just outside of town, is a popular spot for sunset views. It’s also a great place to watch the local fishermen at work.

Go elephant trekking: Pai is located in the heart of Thailand’s elephant country, and there are several elephant sanctuaries and treks available in the area. These treks are a great way to learn about these amazing animals and see them in their natural habitat.

Learn about the local culture: Pai is home to many ethnic minority communities, and there are several cultural centers and museums in the area that showcase the local culture and history.

Go white water rafting: The Mae Nam Pai river runs through Pai, and there are several companies that offer white water rafting trips on the river. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get a little bit of a thrill.

Visit the Pai Night Market: This popular market is held every evening in the center of town and is a great place to sample local food, shop for souvenirs, and experience the local nightlife.

11. Hua Hin

Hua Hin is a popular beach destination in Thailand known for its beautiful beaches, royal history, and laid-back atmosphere. Here are a few things you might consider doing while you’re there:

Visit the beaches: Hua Hin is home to several beautiful beaches, including Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab Beach, which are both popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Explore the royal history: Hua Hin is home to several royal palaces, including the Klai Kangwon Palace and the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace. These palaces are open to the public for tours and offer a glimpse into the history and culture of Thailand.

Take a boat tour: There are several boat tour operators in Hua Hin that offer trips to nearby islands and other attractions. These tours are a great way to see the natural beauty of the region and learn more about the local culture.

Shop and eat at the night market: Hua Hin’s night market is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here you’ll find a wide variety of food stalls, clothing and souvenir vendors, and other local products.

Visit the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard: Located just outside of town, the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard offers wine tastings and tours of the vineyard, as well as a restaurant and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Go golfing: Hua Hin is known for its golf courses, which are popular with tourists and locals alike. There are several courses to choose from, ranging from challenging championship courses to more relaxed, beginner-friendly options.

Visit the Wat Huay Mongkol temple: This large temple is home to a giant statue of the revered monk Luang Phor Thuad, and is a popular destination for those seeking blessings and good fortune.

Explore the local countryside: Hua Hin is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are several tour operators that offer guided bike or ATV tours through the surrounding hills and forests. These tours are a great way to see the natural beauty of the region and get off the beaten path.

12. Krabi

Krabi is a province in southern Thailand known for its beautiful beaches, stunning limestone cliffs, and lush forests. Here are some of the top things to do in Krabi:

Visit the famous Railay Beach: This beautiful beach is only accessible by boat and is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It’s a great place to go rock climbing, kayaking, or just relax on the beach.

Explore the Phi Phi Islands: These stunning islands are located just off the coast of Krabi and are known for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. You can take a boat tour to visit multiple islands in a day, or stay on one island and relax.

Visit the Tiger Cave Temple: This temple is located in the heart of Krabi and is known for its 1,237 steps leading to a golden Buddha statue at the top. The views from the top are breathtaking.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving: The waters around Krabi are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. There are many tour companies offering snorkeling and diving trips in the area.

Take a boat tour to see the Hong Islands: These beautiful islands are located off the coast of Krabi and are known for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. A boat tour is a great way to see the islands and enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the area.

Visit the Emerald Pool: This beautiful natural pool is located in the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve and is surrounded by lush forests. It’s a great place to go swimming and relax.

Go rock climbing: Krabi is known for its towering limestone cliffs, which make for great rock climbing. There are many rock climbing tours available in the area.

Take a boat tour to the Four Island Tour: This popular tour takes you to four beautiful islands off the coast of Krabi, including Koh Poda, Koh Gai, Koh Tub, and Chicken Island. It’s a great way to see the best of what Krabi has to offer.

Read More:

Never enough time…

One week in Thailand will never been enough, this wondrous country will forever have you coming back for more. With a planned one week itinerary and an open mind you can achieve a lot in just one week in Thailand. From islands to cities, from snorkelling to night markets you certainly won’t have a dull moment is South East Asia’s most popular tourist destination.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

Leave a Comment