How to spend 7 days in Thailand — 5 unique itineraries

Experience Thailand's captivating blend of tradition and modern marvels by choosing from our 7-day Thailand itineraries. Whether your passion is history, nature or culinary adventure, these well-designed adventures will provide you with a wonderful journey that reveals the multifaceted essence of this fascinating Southeast Asian nation.

Is 7 days enough for Thailand?

While it is possible to experience the main attractions of Thailand in a 7-day stay, it is difficult to explore everything thoroughly due to its diversity. Therefore, it is important to prioritize specific regions or experiences. 

To get the most out of a week-long trip, it's best to focus on one area, such as Bangkok and its surroundings. If you want to cover several regions or islands, however, more time will allow for a richer and more relaxed experience of Thailand's cultural, historical and natural wonders. The ideal duration depends on your interests and depth of exploration.

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

Wat Phra Kaeo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha Bangkok, Asia Thailand © apiguide/Shutterstock

Wat Phra Kaeo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha Bangkok © apiguide/Shutterstock

Places to visit on a 7-day Thailand itinerary

The 7-day Thailand itinerary allows you to experience a variety of attractions in Thailand. Here is a sample list of places to visit during your 7-day trip:

Bangkok

Under the shadow of Bangkok's skyscrapers, you'll find a heady mix of chaos and sophistication, frenzied markets, traffic jams and quiet golden temples, depressing, zombie-like sex shows, and early morning alms-giving ceremonies. Anyone visiting Bangkok for the first time will be overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells emanating from the city. Travelers return to the capital for this very reason.

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

Chiang Mai

From Bangkok, you can travel to the charming northern city of Chiang Mai. Spend the day strolling around the charming Old Town, where ancient temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang showcase their architectural beauty and historical significance. 

Phang Nga

Continue south to the tranquil province of Phang Nga, where natural wonders await. Spend your days exploring the stunning limestone karsts and hidden lagoons of Phang Nga Bay.

 While here don't miss the opportunity to visit the legendary James Bond Island, a surreal and picturesque destination that promises unforgettable experiences and sights.

Koh Phi Phi

The perfect end to your 7-day adventure is a trip to the tropical island of Koh Phi Phi. This picturesque island offers a full day of snorkeling in crystal clear waters, leisurely sunbathing on fluffy beaches and the island's vibrant nightlife. It's the perfect snapshot of Thailand's island charm in a single day.

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

Ayutthaya © Pixabay

Ayutthaya, Thailand © Pixabay

Itinerary #1: Northern Thailand Explored

Visit the best of Thailand - from the majestic Siam capital Ayutthaya and ancient temples and pagodas in Sukhothai to the picturesque green hills of Chiang Mai and the famous Golden Triangle - all on this 7-day Northern Thailand itinerary.

Itinerary overview

Start your journey on arrival in Bangkok. Depending on what time you arrive, spend some time in the city and explore one of the many sights like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace or Wat Pho.

On day 2, travel to Sukhothai where you can experience the historical treasures, including Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai and Wat Sa Si, before traveling to Sri Satchanalai.

On the third day, you will discover the Emerald Buddha at Ko Kha, visit Tung Kwian Market and head to Chiang Mai.

Tour Chiang Mai on the fourth day, visiting significant sites such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep. On day five, explore the stunning Mae Sa Valley and Hmong tribal lodge. 

Travel to Chiang Rai by scenic boat on the Kok River for day six. Experience the delights of the Golden Triangle and embark on an unforgettable cruise on the Mekong River to Chiang Saen, before returning to Bangkok and concluding your 7-day Thailand adventure.

Sukhothai Wat Mahathat Buddha, Thailand © Shutterstock

Sukhothai Wat Mahathat Buddha, Thailand © Shutterstock

Check this 7-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Bangkok and private transfer to hotel
  • Explore Bangkok's many highlights

Day 2

  • Sukhothai Historical Park Exploration
  • Sri Satchanalai Tour
  • Overnight in Lampang

Day 3

  • Emerald Buddha at Ko Kha
  • Tung Kwian Market
  • Transfer to Chiang Mai
  • Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 4

  • Chiang Mai Discovery
  • Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep
  • Overnight in Chiang Mai

Day 5

  • Orchid Farm and Hmong Tribe Village
  • Overnight in Hmong Village

Day 6

  • River transfer to Chiang Rai
  • Overnight in Chiang Rai

Day 7

  • Golden Triangle and Mekong River Cruise
  • Transfer to Bangkok and departure

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

Demon Guardian in Wat Phra Kaew Grand Palace, Bangkok © Shutterstock

Demon Guardian in Wat Phra Kaew Grand Palace, Bangkok © Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: From Bangkok to Hua Hin

This 7-day Bangkok to Hua Hin itinerary is perfect for those who don't want to travel too far. It combines the exciting city of Bangkok with the royal favorite resort of Hua Hin, just a few hours from the capital.

Itinerary overview

On the first day, your Thai adventure will begin with a local guide meeting you and transferring you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring or discussing additional experiences with our experts.

Day two will begin with a morning bike ride through the colorful streets of Bangkok. End the day at Khao San Road, known as the center of backpackers.

On day three, you'll embark on a half-day tour of Hua Hin's most colorful sights and on day four you'll head to Samroi Yod National Park, where you'll find an unspoiled Thai fishing village, Phrayanakorn Cave, and a relaxing beach vacation.

Day five is dedicated to fruit plantations and a scenic river walk with changing scenery and bird life and day six is focused on savoring Thailand's famous seafood at one of the selected restaurants.

On the seventh day, your unforgettable journey will come to an end and you will head to the airport for departure.

Hua Hin vineyard, Thailand © Shutterstock

Hua Hin Vineyard, Thailand © Shutterstock

Check this 7-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Bangkok and private transfer to hotel
  • Exploring Bangkok at your leisure
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

  • Bicycle Tour of Bangkok
  • Bangkok by Night
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 3

  • Hua Hin Highlights and Vineyard
  • Overnight in Hua Hin

Day 4

  • Samroi Yod National Park with lunch
  • Overnight in Hua Hin

Day 5

  • Pranburi Tour
  • Overnight in Hua Hin

Day 6

  • Transfer to Bangkok
  • Seafood Dinner
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 7

  • Transfer to the airport and departure

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

Ao Nuan Beach on the island of Koh Samet in Thailand © Muzhik/Shutterstock

Ao Nuan Beach, Koh Samet, Thailand © Muzhik/Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: Bangkok-Pattaya Explorer

This 7-day Bangkok Pattaya trip is perfect for adventure, sun and island life: explore cosmopolitan Bangkok, its wats or temples, street markets and waterways. Explore vibrant Bangkok before heading to Thailand's east coast to sail around the islands in the sunshine.

Itinerary overview

The first day sets the tone for a delightful Grand Pearl cruise, offering an unforgettable evening drifting along the Menam Chao Phraya River.

Day two includes an afternoon excursion to the Grand Palace, a magnificent symbol of ancient Siamese royalty.

On the third day, you will be treated to an entertainment program, The Alcazar Show, in VIP seats. Professional artists perform artistic parodies, complemented by a spectacular sound and light show.

On the fourth day, you will go to Coral Island where you can relax, swim, snorkel and laze on the golden beaches.

Day five takes you to the island of Samet, popular for lounging on the beach and swimming in the sunshine.

Day six offers an authentic Thai-style dinner with music and dancing at Sala Rim Naam restaurant, creating an unforgettable cultural experience. Day seven will be the final day of this adventure and you will leave with fond memories.

Silver Lake Vineyard, Pattaya Thailand © SATHIANPONG PHOOKIT/Shutterstock

Silver Lake Vineyard, Pattaya Thailand © SATHIANPONG PHOOKIT/Shutterstock

Check this 7-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

  • Dinner Cruise by Grand Pearl along the Menam Chao Phraya River
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

  • Afternoon tour of Grand Palace
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 3

  • Alcazar Show (VIP seats)
  • Overnight in Pattaya

Day 4

  • Coral Island Day Trip with Lunch
  • Overnight in Pattaya

Day 5

  • Samet Island Day Trip with Lunch
  • Overnight in Pattaya

Day 6

  • Transfer to Bangkok
  • Thai Dinner and Dances at Sala Rim Naam Restaurant
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 7

  • Transfer to the airport and departure

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

Aerial view Phra Nang Cave Beach with traditional long tail boat on Ao Phra Nang Beach, Krabi, Thailand © Avigator Fortuner/Shutterstock

Phra Nang Cave Beach, Ao Phra Nang Beach, Krabi © Avigator Fortuner/Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: Krabi discovery

Krabi and its islands are one of the most charming places in Thailand. This 7-day Krabi itinerary is ideal for beach lovers, sports enthusiasts and those seeking adventure on the Andaman coast.

Itinerary overview

On the first day, you will arrive in Krabi where you will be met by a local guide and transferred to your hotel. The second day is an island tour of the 4 Islands by Speedboat excursion. You will visit Phra Nang Cave, Tub Island, Chicken Island and Poda Island.

Day three is a free day that will allow you to plan your own activities. On the fourth day, you will go on a nature tour to Khao Sok.

Day five is a rejuvenating retreat at the Waree Raksa Hot Spring Spa, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and natural hot springs.

On day six, you will take a speedboat to Phi Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands. Day seven concludes your Krabi trip with a sightseeing tour.

Phi Phi Leh, Thailand © Dan Mammoser/Shutterstock

Phi Phi Leh, Thailand © Dan Mammoser/Shutterstock

Check this 7-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Krabi and a day at leisure
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 2

  • 4 Islands Tour by Speed Boat with Picnic
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 3

  • Day at leisure
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 4

  • Khao Sok Nature Tour
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 5

  • Waree Raksa Hot Spring Spa with Healthy Thai Lunch
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 6

  • Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands by Speed Boat
  • Overnight in Krabi

Day 7

  • Krabi Sightseeing with Lunch
  • Departure from Krabi

Ready for a paradise holiday? Book your Krabi discovery tour.

View over Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand © Shutterstock

Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park, Thailand © Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Thailand nature and beach

Dreaming of a trip that allows you to spend time in both the jungle and on the beach? You can do both on this 7-day itinerary of beach and nature in Thailand! From Bangkok, head south by overnight train to explore the jungle in Khao Sok and the stunning beaches in Krabi.

Itinerary overview

On the first day, you will arrive in Bangkok and spend the rest of the day exploring the city or relaxing. 

On the second day, head to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, and explore its historic ruins by bike. Afterward, head to Koh Kerd Homestay, a center promoting traditional farming and Thai traditions.

On the third day, you will travel to Khao Sok National Park, which presents a different landscape of stark contrast. On the fourth day, accompanied by experienced guides, you will explore Cheow Lan Lake, hiking, exploring caves, swimming and relaxing in floating bungalows.

On the fifth day, you will depart from Khao Sok to Railay in Krabi, and on the sixth day, you will have a free day to relax. Finally, on the seventh day, it's departure time: you'll head to Krabi airport for your next flight.

Canoeing at Khao Sok National Park in Surattani © Shutterstock

Canoeing at Khao Sok National Park in Surattani © Shutterstock

Check this 7-day Thailand itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Bangkok and a day at leisure
  • Overnight in Bangkok

Day 2

  • Ayutthaya Exploration
  • Transfer to Suratthani
  • Overnight in Train Bangkok-Suratthani

Day 3

  • Khao Sok National Park
  • Overnight in Khao Sok

Day 4

  • Khao Sok Day Tour
  • Overnight in Khao Sok

Day 5

  • From Khao Sok to Railay in Krabi
  • Overnight in Railay

Day 6

  • Free day at leisure
  • Overnight in Railay

Day 7

  • Transfer to the airport and departure

Create lasting memories in Thailand - book your trip with us.

Planning your 7-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.

Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 16.07.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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