How to spend 10 days in Thailand - 3 unique itineraries

Experience the timeless atmosphere and modern wonders of Thailand by choosing from our three unique 10-day Thailand itineraries. Whether you're a history, nature or culinary enthusiast, these three exceptional itineraries promise an extraordinary Thai expedition, immersing you in the diverse tapestry of this captivating Southeast Asian kingdom.

Is 10 days enough for Thailand?

A ten-day trip gives you enough time to explore specific regions or take in a range of experiences, but can also make you want to do even more.

You can explore bustling Bangkok, explore the cultural heritage of Chiang Mai, laze on Phuket's pristine beaches or immerse yourself in the ancient history of Ayutthaya. However, you may find it difficult to cover all aspects of Thailand in ten days.

To get the most out of your 10-day visit, carefully plan your itinerary around your interests, whether it's exploring culture, nature or relaxation. Keep in mind that travel time between destinations can vary, so prioritize key experiences and regions that resonate with you the most. After all, Thailand has so much to offer that many travelers return for more adventures.

Not a fan of planning? Contact our Thailand travel experts and embark on your adventure hassle-free.

Places to visit on a 10-day Thailand itinerary

The 10-day Thailand itinerary will allow you to experience a mix of cultural, natural and vibrant urban attractions. Here are a few must-see places and activities:

Bangkok

Start your journey in Thailand's capital city. Visit the iconic Grand Palace, serene Wat Pho with the reclining Buddha and stunning Wat Arun and get lost in the bustling markets, sample a variety of street food or take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River to soak up the city's charm and culture.

Rough Guides tip: As you plan your trip to Bangkok, choose the ideal place to stay in the city.

Chiang Mai

Head north to immerse yourself in Thai culture. Explore ancient temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched atop a mountain with panoramic views. While here, take a cooking class. Or, take part in a traditional Yi Peng lantern launch to enjoy a magical spectacle under the Northern Thai sky.

Ayutthaya

Embark on a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander among historic ruins such as Wat Mahathat, famous for its Buddha head woven into tree roots, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, known for its grand stupas. Delve into Thailand's rich history and understand the essence of this former capital city.

Krabi or Phuket

Head to Thailand's enchanting southern coastline. Relax on picturesque Railay Beach with its stunning limestone cliffs or take a boat trip to the breathtaking island of Phi Phi. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure as you explore crystal-clear waters and pristine shores.

Chiang Rai

Continue your exploration of the north with a day trip to the ethereal White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and discover the historic Golden Triangle region where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Immerse yourself in the culture and scenic nature of this unique region.

Make sure to check out all our Thailand itineraries and find out how to get to Thailand.

Itinerary #1: Best of Thailand with Phuket

On this best-of-Thailand itinerary, you will discover Thailand's vibrant capital Bangkok with its unique markets and temples, before heading north to Chiang Mai, Thailand's cultural center, where you can experience authentic family life and see elephants up close.

Itinerary overview

On day one you will arrive in bustling Bangkok. Day two is an introduction to the city, starting with a local market and ending with a tour of the Grand Palace.

On the third day, you will head outside Bangkok to see the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the charming Maeklong Railway Market. On the fourth day, you'll head north to Chiang Mai.

Day five is a delightful immersion into the world of elephants at Baan Chang Elephant Park. Day six is a visit to the Lanna family in the suburbs of Chiang Mai. Day seven begins with a leisurely morning in Chiang Mai before flying to Phuket.

Day eight is dedicated to traveling around the islands and exploring hidden gems. Day nine invites you to explore Phuket's old town. On the tenth day, you will board your flight to Bangkok. From there, you easily transfer to your international flight home.

Check this 10-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrival in Bangkok and private transfer to hotel
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

• Morning visit to a local flower and vegetable market
• Insider's tour around the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
• Longtail boat tour on the Chao Phraya River
• Afternoon stop at Wat Arun
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 3

• Exploration of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on a boat
• Visit to the unusual Maeklong Railway Market
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 4

• Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
• Private transfer and check-in to your hotel
• Guided tour of Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Sing
• Visit to the tunnel temple (Wat Umong)
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 5

• Group tour of the Baan Chang Elephant Park
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 6

• All-day visit to a Lanna Family
• Authentic Thai culinary class
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 7

• Free time in the morning
• Afternoon flight and check in to your hotel in Phuket
• Overnight in Phuket

Day 8

• Day at leisure in Phuket
• Possibility of island-hopping tour
• Overnight in Phuket

Day 9

• Morning relax at the Beach
• Exploration of the Phuket Town
• Visit a night market after sunset
• Overnight in Phuket

Day 10

• Transfer to Bangkok and departure

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

Itinerary #2: Off the beaten track in Thailand

Are you ready to explore little-known places in Thailand? From bustling Bangkok to relaxing Chiang Mai, during this 10-day tour of Thailand off the beaten track, you will explore towns off the beaten track such as Uthai Thani, Phitsanulok and Lampang, where temples, rivers, mountains and local markets are waiting to be discovered.

Itinerary overview

Your journey begins in bustling Bangkok, where the first day is free for your arrival. On the second day, embark on a sightseeing tour of Bangkok.

On the third day, you will travel to Kanchanaburi where you will visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, JEATH Military Museum and Kanchanaburi Military Cemetery.

Day four begins with a drive to Uthai Thani, home to Chai Nat Bird Park and Khao Sakae Krang. Day five includes a visit to Wat Ta Sung, Paradise Park and Nakhon Sawan Tower.

Day six continues to Phitsanulok and Lampang where you will explore Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao temple and Wat Pong Sanuk.

On the seventh day, you will travel to Chiang Mai. Day eight offers an introduction to Chiang Mai's old town with visits to famous and hidden temples. The ninth day is free time in Chiang Mai for rest.

The journey will end on the tenth day with a transfer from your hotel in Chiang Mai to the airport.

Check this 10-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrival in Bangkok and private transfer to your hotel
• Free time in the afternoon 
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

• Full-day Bangkok guided tour
• Visit to the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
• Exploration of Wat Pho temple and Rattanakosin Island, where Bangkok was first established
• Longtail boat tour on the Chao Phraya River
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 3

• Private transfer from Bankogk to Kanchanaburi 
• Stop in Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Discover the JEATH Military Museum and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
• Afternoon visit to the world-famous bridge over the Kwai River
• Overnight in Kanchanaburi

Day 4

• Guided tour of Chai Nat Bird Park in Uthai Thani
• Afternoon visit to Khao Sakae Krang & exploration of Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri
• Overnight in Uthai Thani

Day 5

• Morning check-out and head up to Phitsanulok
• Visit to Wat Ta Soong (aka Wat Chantaram) along the way
• Stop at Nakhon Sawan, the "heavenly city"
• Arrival and overnight in Phitsanulok

Day 6

• Morning check-out and journey towards Lampang
• Visit the Rat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat along the way
• Exploration of Sgt. Maj. Thawee Folk Museum
• Stop at Chan Palace
• Arrival and overnight in Lampang

Day 7

• Private guided tour of Lampang
• Visit the Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao and Wat Pong Sanuk temples
• Ride towards Chiang Mai
• Check-in and overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 8

• Chiang Mai Old City Tour
• Exploration of the Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phantao temples
• Afternoon exploration of the Warorot market
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 9

• Free morning in Chiang Mai
• Cable car ride or climbing up the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 10

• Breakfast in your hotel & check-out
• Transfer to the Chiang Mai airport and departure

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Itinerary #3: Unique Thailand

Discover the hidden treasures of Bangkok, Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. This unique Thailand trip is the perfect package for those seeking adventure, culture and experiences away from the roadways.

Itinerary overview

Your journey begins in Bangkok where on day two you will experience local life including visits to the Flower Market, Thonburi Canals, Royal Barges and the Temple of Dawn. Day three will take you to Samroi Yod National Park for a boat trip to Phrayanakorn Cave and a beach holiday. 

Day four will be spent in Hua Hin where you will explore Monkey Mountain, Sam Phan Nam Floating Market, Wat Huay Mongkol and Hua Hin Hills Vineyard.

Day five in Chiang Mai is a night stroll through the charming old town, and day six is spent learning Thai cuisine at the Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School. Days seven and eight provide free time for sightseeing or relaxation.

Day nine is the return to Bangkok with a boat tour to Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. On the tenth day, it's time to bid farewell to Thailand and head home, leaving behind cherished memories of your adventures.

Check this 10-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrival in Bangkok and a free day in the city
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

• Unknown Bangkok and Thonburi Klongs
• Afternoon tour of Grand Palace
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 3

• Transfer to Hua Hin
• Samroi Yod National Park Tour with lunch
• Overnight in Hua Hin

Day 4

• Hua Hin Highlights & Vineyard
• Overnight in Hua Hin

Day 5

• Transfer to Chiang Mai
• Chiang Mai Night Ride
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 6

• Thai Cooking at Chiang Mai Thai Cookery Scholl
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 7

• Day at leisure in Chiang Mai
• Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 8

• Day at leisure in Chiang Mai
• Transfer to Bangkok
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 9

• Bangkok by Boat
• Overnight in Bangkok

Day 10

• Transfer to the airport and departure

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Planning your 10 day Thailand itinerary

Before embarking on your adventure, check if you need a Thailand visa and how to apply for one. Also, make sure to read about the 20 best things to do in Thailand.

Inspired to go? Browse our customizable Thailand itineraries or contact our Thailand travel experts and let them prepare a perfect trip for you,

Prefer to do it alone? Get yourself The Rough Guide to Thailand and make the most of your vacation.