Ultimate 11-Day Thailand Itinerary: What to See & Do

by John

Thailand is a country that perfectly blends vibrant cities, ancient history, and rich cultural traditions. During my 11-day journey, I explored some of its most iconic destinations, starting in Bangkok. From the breathtaking Grand Palace to the historic ruins of Ayutthaya and the lively Damnoen Floating Market, every stop offered a unique glimpse into Thailand’s past and daily life. The energy, flavors, and architecture made each experience unforgettable.

I then traveled north to Chiang Mai, where the atmosphere slowed down and the landscapes became more peaceful. Visiting Doi Suthep and learning about the traditions of the Long-Neck Karen tribe added depth to the journey. The trip concluded in Phuket, where beautiful coastal views and island life provided the perfect ending. From bustling cities to serene temples and beaches, Thailand offered an unforgettable adventure.

Noted: Visited in 2015

Map

Thailand Travel: Day 1 - Arrived to Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand! You will spend 3 nights in Bangkok—fun indeed!

Where I stayed: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

Note: I arrived in Bangkok around 11:00 pm. It was a long day!

Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

Thailand Travel: Day 2 - Explore Bangkok

Today I explored Bangkok. Here are a few places I visited: Chatuchak Weekend Market, The Grand Palace, and more.

Note: It was extremely hot when I was there—over 100 degrees!”

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace

Thailand Travel: Day 3 - River Kwai

Today I went on a tour to the River Kwai. The tour included riding an old train over the River Kwai Bridge, but first I made a few stops at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum. I also had lunch in between, which was nice. I rode the Death Railway train over the River Kwai, it was fun.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

JEATH War Museum

JEATH War Museum

Thailand Travel: Day 4 - Ayutthaya Temple

Today I took a trip to Ayutthaya Temple with a guided tour group. I was picked up around 6:30 a.m. It’s about one hour from Bangkok. My first stop was the Summer Palace of King Rama IV, and then I finally made it to Ayutthaya Temple. The temple was huge! I also saw the Reclining Buddha bronze statue. The tour took almost the whole day. Later in the day, I decided to visit Siam Mall. The shopping center is huge!

Ayutthaya Temple

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Siam Mall

Siam Mall

Thailand Travel: Day 5 -Damnoen Floating Market

Today I went on a private tour to the Damnoen Floating Market. First, I visited a traditional Thai home, which was pretty interesting. When I arrived at the floating market, I rode in a long-tail boat, and it was pretty fun. After the floating market, I went to a wood-carving place where they sell carved wooden pieces. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed today.

Thai home

Thai home

Damnoen Floating Market

Wood-Carving Place

wood-carving place

Thailand Travel: Day 6 - Chiang Mai

Today, I traveled to Chiang Mai on Thai Airways. I arrived in the early afternoon and just explored the area where I was staying.

Where I stayed: Tamarind Village

Tamarind Village

Tamarind Village

Lanna Architecture Center

Lanna Architecture Center

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai

Thailand Travel: Day 7 - Doi Suthep

Today I went on a private tour to Doi Suthep, about 35 minutes from Chiang Mai. Before reaching the temple, the tour guide made several stops along the way: local handicraft factories, a cotton factory (showing how cotton balls are turned into thread), a lacquerware store (where the lacquer-making process is demonstrated), an umbrella factory (where traditional paper umbrellas are made), and a silk factory (where we saw the production process and live silkworms). Finally, we went up the mountain to Doi Suthep, where the views were amazing.

Cotton Factory

Lacquerware Store

Umbrella Factory

umbrella factory

Silk Factory

Doi Suthep

Thailand Travel: Day 8 - Explore Chiang Mai

Today, I explored Chiang Mai. The hotel gave me a map showing temples I could visit in the area. The temples I visited were Wat Umong, Wat Duang Dee, Wat Sadeu Muang, Wat Pan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang. I also visited some museums.

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang

Thailand Travel: Day 9 - Golden Triangle Tour

Today I went on a private tour to the Golden Triangle. As always, the tour guide made several stops along the way: Chiang Rai and the White Temple, the Opium Museum, the Mekong River, and the Long-Neck Karen tribe. I also took a boat across to Laos. It was raining, so I didn’t do much walking, but overall I had a good day!

Chiang Rai and the White Temple

Opium Museum

Long-Neck Karen tribe

Thailand Travel: Day 9 - Flying to Phuket

Today I flew to Phuket and arrived at my hotel in the early afternoon. It was raining, so I couldn’t do any exploring around the area.

Hotel

Hotel

Thailand Travel: Day 10/11 - Tour of the Phuket Island

Today I had a driver who took me around the island. Here are the places I visited: the Big Buddha and a 3D museum, among others. On the 11th day, I took an kayak boat tour around Phuket Island. I enjoyed it!

Big Buddha

Big Buddha

Phuket Wat Chalong

Phuket Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong

Phuket Wat Chalong

Kayak Boat Tour

kayak boat tour

Final thought

I enjoyed my time visiting Thailand. I would love to visit again if I get the chance. I recommend it!

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Thailand Itinerary

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