2 weeks in Thailand: The Perfect Itinerary + My Best Tips

0

Thailand Itinerary: 2 Weeks – TOP Things to Do + Where to Stay?

You’re planning to spend 2 weeks in Thailand? You’re looking for the best itinerary?

Then look no further!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 2 weeks itinerary in Thailand.

During your trip, you will first visit Bangkok, the historical parks of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai as well as Chiang Mai, in the North. Then, you will head to the southern islands to enjoy the splendid beaches of Phuket, Koh Lanta or Krabi.

A quick note: If you prefer to only focus on the beaches of Southern Thailand, you should rather read my other itinerary: 15 days in Southern Thailand (click here).

In addition to the must-see attractions for each stage of the itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, how to spend two weeks in Thailand?

Let’s find out!

1) Bangkok (2 days)

For your 2-week trip to Thailand, you will need to land in Bangkok.

From Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok’s main airport), you should take the Airport Rail Link to go to your hotel. It’s for sure the quickest and cheapest way!

The Airport Rail Link is operational from 6 am to midnight with departures every 15 minutes. You will have to take your token (= ticket) from the automatic machines in the basement of the airport and keep it until the end of your journey to insert it into the exit gate.

The rate varies depending on the station you stop at, bearing in mind that the maximum price is 45 baht for the terminus (Phaya Thaï station).

The Airport Rail Link is connected to the SkyTrain (BTS) and the metro (MRT).

The second way to get to your hotel from the airport is to take a taxi at the 1st level of the airport.

As taxis depart from various lanes, you will first have to go to a ticket machine that will give you the lane number where you’ll have to wait for your taxi.

Prices vary between 250 and 450 Bahts for the city center, and even a little more if you are stuck in traffic. Always ask the driver to turn on the taxi meter and do not accept a fixed fare (otherwise you’ll surely end up paying much more).

Finally, you can also book a private transfer in advance online. It’s the best way to avoid hassles upon arrival! To ensure that you go through a reliable site, you need to book it directly by clicking here.

Also, remember to have the address of your hotel written in Thai, it will help your driver to find his way among the hundreds of hotels in Bangkok.

When you arrive at your hotel, take a good night’s rest to recover from the jet lag and get in shape for the next day.

On your first day, you can start off by visiting the 3 emblematic monuments of Bangkok:

1) The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace, the former residence of Thai Royal Family, is home to more than 100 buildings, palaces, and pavilions. Don’t miss the Emerald Buddha statue in the Royal Chapel and the Chakri Maha Prasat Palace.

Entrance to the Grand Palace costs 500 Bahts. 

You can go there on foot or by taxi. There is no subway station nearby.

2) Wat Pho, famous for housing the largest statue of a sleeping Buddha in the city (45 meters long!).

It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Grand Palace. The entrance fee is 200 Bahts.

3) Wat Arun, another well-known temple, with a large 82m prang (tower) and 4 smaller ones covered with colorful mosaics.

As it’s located on the other side of the river from Wat Pho, you will need to take the 4-Baht boat shuttle to cross the river. It’s very convenient as it drops you off right in front of the temple entrance.

The entrance fee is 50 Bahts.

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you wish to visit these 3 sites with a guide, you need to book a guided tour here. It’s the only way to learn more about these beautiful places!

Wat Arun
Wat Arun

After crossing the river back, you can go to one of the 2 following museums to learn more about the Thai culture and history:

  • Museum Siam, less than a 10-minute walk from the landing stage. Ideal if you’re traveling with children, as it’s quite fun. The entrance fee is 300 Bahts.
  • Bangkok National Museum, 2 km from the pier. Very interesting and complete. The entrance fee is 200 Bahts.

After this cultural experience, head to Khao San Road, one of the city’s best-known streets, filled with many shops, bars and restaurants. 

To end your first day in Bangkok in style, you should opt for a dinner cruise. This is the perfect opportunity to admire Bangkok’s illuminated temples and buildings.

You need to book your dinner cruise by clicking on the button below:

And if you prefer a more romantic version, you should opt for this dinner cruise on board an old rice barge:

Go to your hotel for the night.

Dinner Cruise Bangkok
Bangkok dinner cruise

For your second day in Bangkok, you should visit the following:

  • The Golden Mount temple (Wat Saket), where you can admire the whole city from the panoramic terrace. Entrance fee: 50 Bahts.
  • The Chinese district and the Wat Traimit, for its 5.5 ton golden Buddha statue.
  • Lumpini park, for a walk away from the traffic and the crowds
  • The Siam district, a shopping paradise with its huge shopping centers
  • Bayoke Tower: you should go there at the end of the day, to gaze upon the illuminated city from above. Tickets to get to the top of the tower need to be booked in advance here.
  • Alternatively, you can go to the King Power Mahanakhon, currently the highest observation deck in Thailand. Tickets available here!
  • If you want a bit more action, instead of going to a rooftop or viewpoint, you should attend a muay thai boxing match. It’s the national sport in Thailand! You need to book your boxing match here.

You want to learn more about the best places to visit in Bangkok? Then you should read my article: The 30 best things to do in Bangkok.

Voyage Tips - Advice

When you visit temples in Thailand, you should have your legs and shoulders covered. Tank tops and shorts are not allowed for women (and sometimes even for men).

Remember to bring a shawl and a long skirt or long trousers. If you forgot, you can buy pants or skirts for 100 bahts on the street or rent an outfit at the entrance of these sites.

Best places to stay in Bangkok

The best hotels near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho:

  • D Hostel Bangkok: Youth hostel located near the temples and 5 minutes on foot from Khao San Road. Dormitory beds start at €20. Strong points: The location within walking distance to the temples, the cleanliness, the modern decor. Perfect for small budgets!
  • Rambuttri Village Plaza: Located 1.5 kilometer from the Grand Palace and 500 meters from Khao San Road. Bright and pleasant double rooms starting at €30 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: Location, the rooftop swimming pools.
  • Baan Wanglang Riverside, Bangkok: A hotel located on the riverbank opposite the Grand Palace, only 5 minutes away by shuttle boat. Spacious double rooms with a river view starting at €50. Strong points: The amazing river view, the rooftop, the proximity to the 3 main temples of Bangkok.
  • Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel: A brand new hotel, 10 minutes on foot from the Grand Palace and 1km from the National Museum. Warm and comfortable rooms with a balcony starting at €70, breakfast included. Strong points: The surroundings, the comfortable beds, the friendly staff, the pool. It’s my favorite for its amazing value for money around the Grand Palace!
  • Inn a day: located 600 meters away from the Grand Palace. Rooms with unusual and atypical industrial style decoration starting at €100, breakfast included. Strong points: Amazing view of the river and Wat Arun, excellent breakfast, the design.
  • Chakrabongse Villas: On the riverbank, only a 15 minute walk to Wat Pho. Rooms and suites with Oriental yet modern decor start at €170, breakfast included. Strong points: The incomparable view of Wat Arun, the excellent location, the pool. It’s my recommendation for a romantic stay in Bangkok!
Bangkok Grand Palace
Le Grand Palais de Bangkok

The best quiet hotels near the metro (to get around easily)

  • Bangkok Patio: Located 10 minutes away on foot from the BTS Skytrain. Super spacious and modern studios and apartments with equipped kitchens and balconies starting at €40 per night. Strong points: The pool, the quiet, the location. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money! Also perfect for family holidays.
  • Noursabah Boutique Bed Bangkok: Situated 500 meters from the BTS and Airport Rail Link (a direct line to the airport). Well decorated rooms with super comfortable bed begin at €50 a night with breakfast included. Strong points: The quiet, the comfort, food is available (noodles, yogurt, cereal), water, fruit juice 24 hours a day, super convenient to go to the airport.
  • Anajak Bangkok Hotel: Located 5 minutes from the metro and the Airport Rail Link. Very comfortable and cozy rooms starting at €75 a night with breakfast. Strong points: The calm location, the pool, the style of the rooms. An excellent choice for visiting Bangkok or to easily get to the airport at the end of your trip.
  • Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn: Situated just a few steps from the metro. Spacious rooms with large bay windows, staring at €115 including breakfast. Strong points: The great value for money, the infinity pool, the delicious breakfast, the direct access to the metro. It’s my recommendation for a high-end stay in Bangkok.
  • Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Luxury hotel with direct access to Siam Paragon shopping center and the BTS. Elegant and contemporary rooms starting at €230, breakfast included. Strong points: The large pools and garden, the jacuzzi, the spa, the excellent breakfast. The best hotel in Bangkok for a luxurious stay!
Grand Palace Bangkok
Rooftop view of Bangkok at night

2) Ayutthaya (1 day)

For the 2nd part of your two-week stay in Thailand, let’s leave Bangkok for Ayutthaya, just 75 km away.

To get there, you have 4 options:

1) By Car: you should rent a car from Don Muang airport (not the one you arrived at). It’s by far the most convenient, as it’s on the way to Ayutthaya! From the airport, there is only a 45-minute drive to the historical site.

You can rent it for several days and keep it until Chiang Mai (part 4 of your itinerary).

You should compare prices on Rentalcars.com. It’s the best way to find a good deal for your car rental in Thailand.

To check prices and book your rental car, simply click on the button below:

2) Train: a train ticket costs only 15 Bahts and the journey takes 2 hours, this is the cheapest option.

3) Bus: It takes 90 minutes and costs 50 Bahts

4) Minivan: a one hour trip that costs 70 Bahts

Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya

Once in Ayutthaya, you can spend the day discovering the ancient temples of the historical park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you leave Bangkok early, you will have time to see all the main temples in just 1 day.

In order to help your organize your visit to Ayutthaya, I have written a complete guide to the historical park.

In this article, you will find all the practical information you need, such as the rates or the tourist map of the most beautiful temples. You can read this free travel guide here: How to visit Ayutthaya?

Spend the night in Ayutthaya.

Best places to stay in Ayutthaya

  • Early Bird Hostel Ayutthaya: Hostel located 700 metres from Wat Mahathat. Dormitory bed from €13, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, cleanliness, privacy thanks the curtain. Perfect for backpackers!
  • Baan Baimai Boutique Room: Located 1.7 km from Wat Mahathat or 5 minutes by car. Spacious and well decorated double room from € 27. Strong points: quiet, decor, private parking. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Ayutthaya!
  • P.U. Inn Resort: Located 5 minutes from the bus station and 10 minutes from Mahathat temple. Comfortable and colourful double room from €45. Strong points: swimming pool, central location, warm welcome.
  • Baan Thai House: Located 1.4 km from Wat Yai Chai Mongkon. Spacious villa with balcony and garden or lake view from €65, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, outdoors, good meals, setting, calm.
  • Classic Kameo Hotel & Serviced Apartments, Ayutthaya: 5 minute drive from Yai Chai Mongkon Temple. Double room with kitchenette and sitting area, modern and spacious, from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: facilities, comfort, swimming pool, spa.
  • Sala Ayutthaya: Located 1.6 km from the historical park and the Wat Chai Watthanaram. Modern double room with exposed red bricks from €140, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, view of the river and the temples, food quality, hotel design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Ayutthaya!
Wat Yai Chaya Mongkon Ayutthaya
Wat Yai Chaya Mongkon Ayutthaya

3) Sukhothai (2 days)

Let’s continue your 2-week road trip in Thailand and go to Sukhothai, another UNESCO World Heritage Site located North of Ayutthaya.

As there is more than 350 km between the two cities, you should keep one day just for the journey.

You also have several options to get there:

  • By car, it will take you 5 hours. The drive is not a problem, the major part of the trip is on a 2-lane highway in excellent condition, with several brand new petrol stations along the way.
  • By bus: you need to take the bus from Ayutthaya bus station. It takes 6 hours for the bus journey, and costs around 300 Bahts per person. There are departures several times a day.
  • By train: there is no train station in Sukhothai. If you take the train in Ayutthaya, you will have to stop in Phitsalunok (4 hours by train for 700 Bahts) then take a bus to Sukhothai (1 hour for 50 Bahts).

Spend the first night in Sukhothai.

Wat Mahathat Sukhothai
Wat Mahathat Sukhothai

On the next day, you will have the full day to explore Sukhothai!

The general layout of the site is a bit similar to Ayutthaya: in Sukhothai, you will also find temples spread over several areas.

To help you plan this visit, I have prepared a very comprehensive guide with all the answers to the questions you may have:

  • How much does it costs?
  • What are the opening times?
  • Which temples should you see?
  • How many days to visit Sukhothai?
  • And of course, a bit of history to learn more about the park!

You can read it here: Sukhothai: The Definitive Guide.

And if after reading the guide you still have questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the end of each article.

Spend another night in Sukhothai.

Best places to stay in Sukhothai

  • Vieng Tawan Sukhothai Guesthouse by Thai Thai: Located 1.5 km from the historical park. Warm and comfortable double room from €20, breakfast at €4. Strong points: swimming pool, peace and quiet, welcoming atmosphere. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Sukhothai!
  • Thai Thai Sukhothai Guesthouse: Located 1.5 km from the park. Double room with traditional decor, wooden furniture and garden view from 30€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, very warm welcome, charming.
  • Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort: Located 1.5 km from the historical site of Sukhothai. Spacious bungalow with Thai decor and wooden furniture, from €40, including breakfast. Strong points: swimming pool and excellent outdoor setting, peace and quiet, bike rental and the location close to the park. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
  • Sriwilai Sukhothai: Located 1.8 km from the park. Spacious and bright double room with balcony overlooking the rice fields from €80, breakfast included. Strong points: superb setting, large infinity pool, spa, peace and quiet, attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Sukhothai!
temples sukhothai
Les temples de Sukhothai

4) Chiang Mai (3 days)

Let’s now continue your two-week itinerary in Thailand and head to Chiang Mai province.

If you have opted for the rental car, it will take around 4 and a half hours to arrive in Chiang Mai from Sukhothai. The journey is a breeze, the road is straight and in excellent condition.

To get there by bus, count 6 hours and around 300 Bahts per person. There are several departures per day.

And if you prefer to take the train, you will first have to take a bus from Sukhothai to Phitsalunok (1 hour / 50 Bahts) then the Phitsalunok-Chiang Mai train (6 to 8 hours / between 100 and 600 Bahts).

In any case, you should plan one day to travel between Sukhothai and Chiang Mai.

Spend the night in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Man Wat Chiang Mai Old Town
Chiang Man Wat, in Chiang Mai Old Town

Today, you will be able to visit Chiang Mai’s old town, where the main temples are located. You can easily visit on foot.

Here are the best places to visit in Chiang Mai old town:

  • Wat Phra Singh. Free entry.
  • Wat Chedi Luang. The entrance fee is 40 bahts.
  • Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang. Free of charge.
  • The Three Kings Monument
  • The 3 museums located on the Three Kings Monument Square: the Cultural Centre, the Historical Centre and the Lanna Folklife Museum. You can visit them to learn more about the history of the city.
  • Wat Chiang Man
  • Warorot market
  • Wat Saen Fang, Wat Buppharam and Wat Mahawan. Only the Buppharam temple has an entrance fee: 20 Bahts.
  • The Night Bazaar on weekdays or the Saturday or Sunday Night Market on weekends. In both places, you can find souvenir to bring back home from your 2 weeks in Thailand as well as taste delicious Thai cuisine.

To make the most of your evening at Chiang Mai Market, you should book a guided tour. It’s a great occasion to learn more about the local life, and your guide will make sure you try the best Thai food!

You need to book this activity by clicking on the green button below:

Spend another night in Chiang Mai.

Wat Chedi Luang Chiang Mai
Wat Chedi Luang, in Chiang Mai

For your last day in Chiang Mai, you have several options:

1) Explore Doi Suthep National Park, located outside the city.

The highlight of the visit is Doi Suthep temple (30 Bahts). Built on the top of a hill, it’s one of the best places to admire the view over the whole province.

In the park you can also visit the gardens of the royal family’s winter residence (Bhubing Palace / 50 Bahts) and a Hmong village, an ethnic group from the mountainous regions of Northern Thailand (10 Bahts).

There are also several waterfalls, such as Mon Tha Than or Huay Kaew.

The best way to visit the park is by car or scooter. However, if you don’t want to drive, you can also take a song thaew (shared taxi) from the old town or opt for a tour with driver and guide.

You need to book your tour here:

Chiang Mai Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep Temple, in Chiang Mai

2) Spend the day in an elephant sanctuary.

Near Chiang Mai, several sanctuaries are on a mission to help the most iconic animals of Thailand and give them a second life after years and years of abuse and mistreatment.

When visiting an elephant sanctuary, you will be able to help the caretakers feed or wash the elephants. Of course, as it’s about animal preservation, no elephant-back rides are allowed!

As the number of visitors allowed at the Elephant sanctuary is very limited, you need to book in advance by clicking on the button below:

3) Take a cooking class: another typical activity for your 2-week itinerary in Thailand.

Before the actual class, the chef will take you to a market to choose the ingredients and spices needed to make the planned dishes.

Then, it will be time to go to the kitchen and learn how to make amazing Thai food!

Once you’re done with the cooking, you will of course be able to taste your creations and get all the secrets of Thai cuisine in a small recipe booklet.

To take a cooking class in Chiang Mai, simply click on the button below:

Spend a third and last night in Chiang Mai.

If you want to learn more about the best places to visit in Chiang Mai, you should read my dedicated guide: The 20 best things to do in Chiang Mai.

Voyage Tips - Advice

To visit the temples of Chiang Mai or Doi Suthep temple, it’s the same as in Bangkok: don’t forget to cover your legs and shoulders.

Best places to stay in Chiang Mai

  • HOSTEL by BED: Youth hostel located 500 meters from Wat Phra Sing and the Sunday market. The beds are in a modern and clean dormitory and start at 10€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: clean rooms and common areas, a good and healthy breakfast, bottled water. This is the best budget accommodation in Chiang Mai. Perfect for backpackers!
  • Wing Bed: Located in the old town, 800 meters from Wat Chedi Luang. Comfortable and cosy double rooms starting at 35€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: brand new building, ideal location, excellent service. It’s my recommendation in Chiang Mai for its outstanding value for money!
  • Pingviman Hotel: Located 10 minutes away from the weekend market and 700 meters from Wat Phra Sing. Thai style double rooms with carved wooden furniture, spa bath and balcony, starting at 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, traditional decoration, perfect location, comfort.
  • 99 The Heritage Hotel: Located in the pedestrian street of the Sunday night market. Double room with tasteful decoration and very comfortable bedding starting at 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, friendly staff, good location, free mini bar, fruits and cakes available all day long. A great choice for a romantic stay in Chiang Mai!
  • Chala Number6: 5* hotel located in the historic center, 200 meters away from Wat Chedi Luang. This luxury hotel offers spacious and very comfortable rooms, starting at 190€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool and garden, lovely staff, charming hotel, snacks offered every day. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay!
Doi Suthep National Park Thailand
Le Parc national de Doi Suthep, en Thaïlande

5) Phuket or Krabi (3 days)

For the next leg of your 2-week stay in Thailand, you will enjoy the beautiful beaches of the South!

From Chiang Mai, you can easily take a flight to Phuket or Krabi. In less than 2 hours, you can be swimming in the crystal clear waters of Southern Thailand!

For the rest of your holiday in Thailand, I have thus planned 2 options: you can head to Phuket (info below) or Krabi (info a bit further down, after Phuket part).

Option 1: Phuket (3 days)

By flying to Chiang Mai in the morning, you will have all the afternoon to start enjoying Phuket.

For example, you can go to Patong and its long sandy beach. It’s for sure the most touristy part of the island, especially around Bangla Road where you can find many shops, bars and restaurants.

It’s also where you will find most Ladyboy shows, where men dressed up as women perform in the evening. The most famous one in Phuket is the Simon Cabaret Show: if you wish to attend, you need to book your tickets in advance by clicking here.

Spend your first night in Phuket.

On the next day, you should rent a scooter to explore the island:

  • Visit Phuket Town: Walk along Thalang Road and admire the colorful Sino-Portuguese style houses.
  • Go to Monkey Hill, to see the monkeys that live there
  • Visit Khao Rang temple, famous for its large golden Buddha statue
  • Climb to Khao Rang Hill viewpoint for a panoramic view over the city
  • Enjoy one of Phuket’s beaches

In the evening, you can attend the famous Siam Niramit show, featuring dozens of dancers and actors displaying Thailand’s rich history and culture.

You need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

Spend another night in Phuket.

Voyage Tips - Advice

To visit Phuket, instead of renting a scooter, you can opt for an organized day trip with transport and guide!

You will discover the best of the island with location such as Phuket old town, Chalong temple, the Big Buddha and Karon viewpoint.

Simply Click here to book your guided tour of Phuket.

Phuket plage
Phuket most beautiful beaches

For your third day in Phuket, you should go on a boat trip to discover the surrounding islands.

All trips include swimming and snorkeling in heavenly places, worthy of the most beautiful postcards of Thailand.

From Phuket, you can choose between:

  • Koh Phi Phi, which is undoubtedly the most famous excursion of the country!

Simply click on the button below to book your boat trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket:

This boat trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket is also available on a beautiful catamaran. Click here to book it!

  • The Similan Islands, one of the most beautiful places to snorkel or dive in Thailand.

To book your boat trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket, you need to click here:

  • Phang Nga Bay, home to the famous James Bond Island.

When going to Phang Na Bay, you will have the opportunity to go kayaking among the karst rocks and in caves. You will also visit the large floating market of koh Panyee island.

To book your boat trip to James Bond Island  and Phang Na Bay from Phuket, simply click on the button below:

Spend one last night in Phuket.

You want to learn more about the best things to do in Phuket? Then you should read my article: Phuket: the definitive guide.

Voyage Tips - Advice

For safety reasons, you should really book your boat trips and activities through the links in this article.

You will thus be 100% sure to book with a reputed agency that meets both quality and safety standards.

In Phuket (and in Thailand in general), there is a bit of everything quality wise, so booking while being already there is not really recommended, as  you have no way to know how reliable an agency is before actually arriving on the boat.

Best places to stay in Phuket

If you want to be on the lively side of Phuket, you should stay around Patong. Here is my selection of accommodation in the area:

  • Lub D Phuket Patong: Youth Hostel 5 minutes from Patong Beach and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Modern and very clean dormitory bed from €12. Strong points: huge swimming pool, common areas with even a boxing ring, design, cleanliness. This is the best hostel in Phuket!
  • Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 minutes from the night market and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Spacious designer double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: swimming pool, location, comfort of the rooms. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Patong.
  • Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor facilities, swimming pool, welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff.
  • Phuket Marriott Resort Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 2 miles from Patong, right on Tri-Trang beach. Warm and comfortable double room with private balcony or terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Strong points: sea-side location, private beach, quiet, playground for children, setting. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Phuket!

If you prefer to stay in Phuket Town, here is my selection of the best hotels:

  • Baan Baan hostel: Hostel located in Phuket Old Town. Dormitory bed from €8, breakfast included. Strong points: helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm atmosphere. The best youth hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
  • Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 metres from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Strong points: location, cleanliness, friendly staff.
  • The Malika Hotel: Located 1.8 km from the old town. Double room with very comfortable bedding and balcony from €38, breakfast at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Phuket Town!
  • Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Double room decorated with great taste from €50 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: excellent location, friendly staff, right next to the night market.
  • Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 mile away from the old town. Super spacious double room, modern design from €85, breakfast at €15. Strong points: setting, comfort, ideal to visit the old town, close to the boat to the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!
Phuket Marriot Resort & Spa - Hôtel de luxe à Phuket
Phuket Marriot Resort & Spa – Luxury hotel in Phuket

Option 2: Krabi (3 days)

If you don’t want to go to Phuket, you have another option for the 5th leg of your two week road trip in Thailand: spend 3 days in Krabi.

As I mentioned above, you can easily catch a plane to Krabi from Chiang Mai.

Upon arrival, you should go to Ao Nang beach to enjoy a quiet afternoon sunbathing. As Ao Nang is the main seaside resort in the province, you will also find restaurants and shops there.

Spend the first night in Ao Nang.

On your second day in Krabi, take a boat from the beach to reach Railay peninsula, famous for its 2 splendid beaches: Railay West Beach and Phra Nang Beach. 

The journey only takes 10 minutes and costs 200 bahts for a round trip.

You can spend some time relaxing and swimming, or enjoy activities such as kayaking or Stand up Paddle. Railay is also known for its numerous rock climbing routes that attract climbers from all over the world.

If you want to get started with this sport, you can book a rock climbing course right here:

Spend another night in Ao Nang.

Railay beach
Railay

On the third day, you should book a boat trip to visit the surrounding islands. Throughout the day, you will have the chance to swim, relax and take beautiful pictures in an idyllic setting.

From Krabi/Ao Nang you can explore:

  • The 4 islands, visiting Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tup and Phra Nang Cave.
  • Koh Phi Phi, one of Thailand’s most famous islands.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi
  • Hong Islands

I give you more info about these boat trip and Krabi in my dedicated article: The 17 best things to do in Krabi.

Spend one last night in Ao Nang.

Best places to stay in Krabi / Ao Nang

  • K-Bunk Hostel: Hostel located 15 minutes walk from Ao Nang beach. Dormitory bed from €13. Strong points: the staff, the ambiance, comfortable beds.
  • Cocco House: Located 1.5 km away from Nopparat Beach. Very clean and quiet bungalow from €30 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, free bike rental, good bedding. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Ao Nang.
  • Wake Up Aonang Hotel: Located right next to the beach. Double room with large bay windows and sea view from €50. Strong points: the beach adjacent location and all the restaurants, swimming pool, comfort.
  • Phu Pha Aonang Resort Spa: Located 800 m away from Ao Nang Beach. Wooden and parquet floor room with patio from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: lush garden, view of the cliff, swimming pool, free shuttle to the town. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Ao Nang.
  • The Nine Thipthara Klongson Resort: Located 5 km from the sea. Very spacious and tastefully decorated villa with a spa bath, from €220, breakfast included. Strong points: environment, swimming pool, beautiful rooms. My recommendation for a luxury stay in Ao Nang. The best place to spend a romantic holiday!
Ao-Nang
Ao Nang

6) Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi (3 days)

For the last leg of your two-week itinerary in Thailand, you will explore another southern island.

Whether you’ve opted for Phuket or Krabi for part #5, you can easily reach Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi by boat.

This time too, I give you 2 options depending on your interests:

  • If you are looking for a lively island with many restaurants and beautiful beaches, you should go to Koh Lanta.
  • If you prefer to end your 2-week trip to Thailand on a quieter island, away from mass tourism, you need to visit Koh Yao Noi!

Option 1: Koh Lanta (3 days)

Here is the best way to visit Koh Lanta in 3 days:

  • On the first day, rent a scooter and drive along the west coast of the island. You will find many beautiful beaches to take a dip!
  • On the second day, go on a boat trip to the 4 islands (the tour is named the same as the boat trip from Krabi, but you will visit different islands). It’s the best activity to do in Koh Lanta!

You need to book your 4-island boat trip by clicking on the button below:

During this tour, you will be on a longtail boat, a traditional Thai boat. If you prefer, you can opt for the speedboat version: You need to book it by clicking here.

4 iles Koh Lanta
4-island tour Koh Lanta
  • On the third and last day, you can go on another boat trip, to explore Koh Rok island.

Book your boat trip to Koh Rok by clicking on the button below:

If the trip is fully booked, you can book with another service provider by clicking here  (exactly the same).

If you don’t feel like going on 2 boat trips, you can also choose to stay in Koh Lanta. In terms of things to do, you will be spoilt for choice:

  • Kayak tour in the mangrove swamp (click here to book this activity)
  • Visit to an elephant sanctuary
  • Explore the neighboring island of Koh Lanta Noi on a scooter
  • Have your first diving experience
  • Take a cooking class
  • Stroll around the old town
  • Explore the caves: Tiger Cave or Khao Mai Kaew Caves
  • Explore Mu Koh Lanta National Park

All the detailed information on these activities can be found in my other article: Koh Lanta: the definitive guide.

On the next day, it will unfortunately be the end of your 2-week trip to Thailand. You will have to return to Phuket or Krabi to catch your return flight.

Best places to stay in Koh Lanta

In Koh Lanta, hotels are located on the west coast of the island, close to the numerous beaches.

As always, the best rooms are fully booked months in advance, so make sure to book as soon as you have your travel dates!

  • Hub of Joys Hostel: Hostel located 350 metres from Long Beach. Clean and pleasant dormitory bed from €6 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, 5 minutes from the beach, good breakfast. This is the cheapest accommodation option in Koh Lanta! Perfect for backpackers.
  • Long Beach Chalet: Located right on Long Beach. Bright and comfortable bungalow from 25€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, direct access to the beach.
  • SriLanta Resort: Located on Klong Nin Beach. Thai style villa with a terrace overlooking the garden from 35€, breakfast at 10€. Strong points: 3 swimming pools, the setting, ideal location to go to the beach, comfort. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
  • Kaw Kwang Beach Resort: Located on Klong Dao Beach. Nice and spacious double room from 50€, breakfast included. Strong points: sea-view, very quiet and accessible beach, swimming pool, landscaped garden, free pick-up and drop-off at the port.
  • Rawi Warin Resort And Spa: 5 star hotel located 400 metres from Klong Nin Beach. Modern Thai style double room with wooden furniture and balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pools, playground for children, view, competent staff, ample and varied breakfast. Ideal for an upscale romantic stay!
  • Pimalai Resort & Spa: 5 star hotel located 650 ft from Kantiang Beach. Very spacious and tastefully decorated double room from 210€, breakfast included. Strong points: the splendid infinity pool, dedicated staff, location, view, excellent breakfast. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Koh Lanta!
Diamond Cliff Koh Lanta
Visiting Koh Lanta

Option 2: Koh Yao Noi (3 days)

At the end of the 5th leg of your 2-week stay in Thailand, after Phuket or Krabi, you can go to Koh Yao Noi instead of Koh Lanta.

Just like on the other islands, on your first day in Koh Yao, you will need to rent a scooter (300 Bahts) to go around the island and discover the beautiful beaches.

On the second day, you should go on the 4 islands boat trip (yes, same name again, different islands😅). It’s the prefect opportunity to discover remote islands, swim in splendid spots with turquoise waters and relax on beautiful sandy beaches!

You can book it directly at your hotel for about 2500 Bahts for 1 boat (to be divided between the number of passengers).

Koh Yao Noi
4-island boat trip – Koh Yao Noi

On your third and last day on Koh Yao Noi, you can go on another boat trip, like the one that goes to James Bond Island and Koh Panyee, in Phang Nga Bay (don’t do it again if you’ve already done it from Phuket, it’s the same tour).

Alternatively, you can go kayaking, walking, swimming… You will find all the best places to visit and activities in my article dedicated to Koh Yao Noi: The 12 best things to do in Koh Yao Noi

And that’s where your 2 week road trip in Thailand ends. The next day, take the boat back to Phuket or Krabi and reach the airport for your return flight.

Voyage Tips - Advice

On Koh Yao Noi, you will have to plan your swims according to the tide. There are such differences between low and high tides that some beaches become inaccessible.

One of the few places where you can swim all the time (walking on a sandbank to reach the water) is the one in front of the Koh Yao Seaview hotel.

Best places to stay in Koh Yao Noi

  • Tha Khao Bay View: Located to the east of the island. Simple bungalow with fan from €25 per night. Strong points: the incredible view of the sea, the location in the middle of nature, the friendliness of the owners. An excellent choice for a cheap stay in Koh Yao Noi!
  • Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow: Located on the seafront, 15 minutes away in a songthaew from the port. Very spacious bungalow with a large bed and private terrace overlooking the swimming pool or the sea, from €45 per night. Strong points: the beach is nearby, the calmness, the swimming pool, the really cheap restaurant which provides delicious food in ample quantities. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
  • Paradise KohYao: Located to the north of the island. Tastefully decorated room with an outdoor bathroom and private terrace from €95, breakfast included. Strong points: idyllic setting, infinity pool, private beach, location in the bay.
  • Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island. Spacious and bright double room with very fancy decoration, from €150 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: design, calm, dreamy setting, friendly staff. A beautiful hotel in Koh Yao Noi, perfect for a romantic stay!
  • Laguna Villas Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island, right on the beach. Beautiful fully equipped villas, a perfect mix of modern and traditional Thai style from €200 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: sea-facing location, large swimming pool, close to excellent restaurants.
  • Six Senses Yao Noi: This is the most luxurious hotel on the whole island. It offers splendid villas with private swimming pools and even a butler that will be assigned to you for the duration of your stay. From €570, breakfast included. Strong points: Spa, gym, private beach, comfort, excellent meals, exceptional service. This is clearly the most beautiful luxury hotel in Koh Yao Noi. A dream place to spend your honeymoon or a romantic stay!

Visiting Thailand for 2 weeks: alternative itinerary

If you want to visit Thailand in 2 weeks but spend a little less time in the South (only 1 island instead of 2), here is an alternative itinerary.

You can follow the steps until the last day in Chiang Mai.

From there, you should go to the other famous city of Northern Thailand: Chiang Rai. If you spend 2 or 3 days there, you will have time to discover all the best places to visit, including the emblematic monument, the white temple.

If you choose this option, you should read my article: The 17 best things to do in Chiang Rai. In this guide, you will find all my best tips to organize your days and not miss out on anything.

After Chiang Rai, all you have to do is take a flight and end your two-week stay in Phuket or Krabi. 

Chiang Rai White Temple
The White Temple, in Chiang Rai

Don’t hesitate to ask me your question if you need help to plan your 2-week itinerary in Thailand!

Book your trip now and save money!

Thailand travel Guides

You’re traveling to Thailand? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Thailand: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

2 weeks in Thailand
2 weeks in Thailand
Anonymous

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Leave A Reply