{"id":33739,"date":"2022-02-26T18:15:16","date_gmt":"2022-02-26T17:15:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.sommertage.com\/?p=33739"},"modified":"2023-10-17T17:01:58","modified_gmt":"2023-10-17T16:01:58","slug":"thailand-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.sommertage.com\/en\/thailand-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"Thailand Itinerary: The Best Destinations from North to South"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Holiday paradise Thailand!<\/strong> Dense jungle, gold shiny temples, tropical beaches and a metropolis that will take your breath away \u2013 all that and much more awaits you in Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We are not going to keep it a secret: Thailand is one of our absolute favourite travel destinations<\/strong>! We have been countless times \u2013 always with different routes and travel destinations in focus. The travel itinerary that we have put together for you is a combination of all the highlights Thailand has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The practical part: We have also provided route options<\/strong> so that you can easily extend your travel itinerary from 2 to 3 or even 4 weeks. From north to south, from the jungle to the most beautiful beaches \u2013 here are our highlights for your trip around Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"Thailand<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

1. Our Travel Itinerary through Thailand for 2 to 4 Weeks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are taking a flight from Europe, chances are it will land in Bangkok. We personally like to stay in Bangkok at the end of the trip<\/strong> \u2013 for many reasons that we will explain later on. Therefore, we usually fly (or drive) straight to Chiang Mai and embark on our travel itinerary from there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another note up front: We explain the transport options under each stop along our travel route. Info and tips for booking the individual transport options<\/strong> are provided at the end of this blog article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chiang Mai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Our itinerary begins in beautiful northern Thailand, more precisely in the city of Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand after Bangkok, although it is comparatively more relaxed and peaceful here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chiang Mai is the city of temples!<\/strong> It seems to sparkle and shine on every corner. So you can take a good dive into Thai culture right at the start of your travels. For example, at the gates of the city sits one of the most well-known temples in Thailand, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Speaking of the gates to the city, there awaits another highlight for you: lovely nature<\/strong>! Chiang Mai is surrounded by wonderfully beautiful landscapes. In just a short while you can leave behind the city noise and are in the mountains, surrounded by rice fields, or at impressive waterfalls \u2013 simply wonderful!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find our detailed travel tips in this blog article:<\/strong> Chiang Mai<\/a>
Our hotel tip for Chiang Mai:<\/strong> The Tippanet<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 3-5 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The fastest and most comfortable way to cover this stretch is by aeroplane<\/strong>. There are countless daily flight connections between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which are mostly reasonably cheap. The flight takes about an hour. Important to know: There are two airports in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. So if you are flying from Europe and land in Bangkok (almost always in Suvarnabhumi), then you need to make sure the connecting flight leaves from the same airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can search for cheap flights here: <\/strong>Skyscanner<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have enough time, then we recommend you travel by train. There is even a night train<\/strong> (around 13 hours) as well as a train during the daytime (around 11 hours). It is also possible to take a bus<\/strong> to Chiang Mai (around 10 hours).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chiang<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Wat<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Chiang<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Optional: Pai or Mae Taeng<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many people visit Chiang Mai (and Umland) and then, due to time restraints, rather quickly travel south again to the islands or beaches. But if you\u2019re already up in northern Thailand, then it is of course worthwhile to make your way to another (or more) travel destination. Cooler temperatures<\/strong> await you up here, magnificent untouched nature<\/strong> and a (mainly) authentic insight into the daily Thai life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not all too authentic, but very popular, is the small \u201chippie village\u201d of Pai. The little town is beautifully situated and comes with great day trip destinations, however it has developed into a rather touristy spot over the last few years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the trip to Pai is too far, then we can highly recommend a stay in Mae Taeng, which is located just one hour north of Chiang Mai. Here an authentic region awaits you off the beaten track. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find more info in this blog article:<\/strong> Mae Taeng (available soon)
Our accommodation tip for Mae Taeng:<\/strong> Lisu Lodge<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 2-3 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Chiang Mai to Pai or Mae Taeng<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The stretch between Chiang Mai and Pai<\/strong> is primarily serviced by minibus companies. The drive takes around 4 hours. Important: The route has a lot of curves \u2013 if you have a woozy stomach, you should take the appropriate precautions. (We always have travel gum with us. You can find more info here: Southeast Asia Packing List.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You only need around an hour to drive to Mae Taeng<\/strong>. The stretch is a little less frequented, so you will probably need to take private transport. You can find booking info in a later chapter of this blog article. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Thailand<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Krabi (Railay Peninsula)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s head south! Krabi is the first beach destination<\/strong> on our travel route through Thailand. Krabi is a rather vast province on the west coast. When \u201cKrabi\u201d is the topic of conversation, then travelers are mainly referring to the area around the tourist town of Ao Nang or the very famous Railay Peninsula.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We will be honest: Almost nowhere else in Thailand is as beautiful as here. Turquoise blue sea, fine sandy beaches, rugged rock formations<\/strong> \u2013 simply breathtaking. However, Krabi (or better said, Ao Nang and the Railay Peninsula) is also one of the most touristy regions in Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We have already been here a few times and can reassure you: It is very possible to explore Krabi away from the crowds<\/strong>. We reveal how exactly in our detailed blog article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find our travel tips in this blog article:<\/strong> Krabi Insider Tips<\/a>
Our hotel tip for Krabi: <\/strong>The Pavillons Anana Krabi<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 3-4 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Chiang Mai to Krabi<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

This stretch is the longest on our travel itinerary through Thailand \u2013 here you practically need to travel the entire country from north to south in one go. For this reason, we often fly. There are several direct flights <\/strong>daily. The flight time is around two hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can search for cheap flights here: <\/strong>Skyscanner<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For anyone who prefers not to fly (and has enough time), you can also make the journey over land. However, this takes some time! Usually you do the journey in two parts with an overnight stay in Bangkok. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Nong<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Krabi<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Experience<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Optional: Koh Yao<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As touristy as Krabi is, just a 45-minute boat ride away is an island away from the mass tourism<\/strong> \u2013 or better said, two islands: Koh Yao Noi und Koh Yao Yai.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The northern island (Koh Yao Noi) is better developed for tourists, but both islands have preserved their authenticity. Important note: If you are searching for picturesque beaches, these two islands are not quite the right choice. There are other destinations in Thailand that would be more suitable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find more info in our detailed blog article:<\/strong> Koh Yao Noi & Yai<\/a>
Our hotel tip for Koh Yao:<\/strong> Cape Kudu<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 2-4 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Krabi to Koh Yao<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Koh Yao is just a stone\u2019s throw away from Krabi \u2013 or better said, a short boat ride<\/strong> away. There are two piers in Krabi from which boats make their way to Koh Yao. One of these is the Thalane Pier (around 30 minutes outside of Ao Nang). And the other is the Nopparat Thara Pier directly in Ao Nang. The ride across takes around 30 to 45 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Koh<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Koh<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Hotel<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Koh Lanta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Lanta is one of our favourite islands<\/strong> in Thailand! Why? In our opinion it offers something from everything: pretty (yet not breathtaking) beaches, relaxing island flair, a nice old town, beautiful nature, not too big, not too small. In short: A fantastic destination on your travel route through Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Koh Lanta is relaxing<\/strong>. You will primarily meet (young) couples and families here. Fortunately, party tourism is nowhere to be found. Thanks to the national parks on Koh Lanta, your desires for discovery will also be fulfilled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More detailed travel article with all the tips:<\/strong> Koh Lanta Island Guide<\/a>
Our hotel tip for Koh Lanta:<\/strong> Alanta Villa<\/a>
Recommended length of stay: <\/strong>3-4 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Krabi to Koh Lanta<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

You can quite conveniently reach Koh Lanta directly by boat from Ao Nang in Krabi. Both slower boats and faster speedboats operate here. The ride across takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on the boat.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Khlong<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Island<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Koh Phangan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

From the west to the east coast of Thailand. The next stop on our travel itinerary is the dreamy island of Koh Phangan. If we needed to spontaneously name a favourite island in Thailand<\/strong>, our choice would land on Koh Phangan. Here you can find, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful beaches<\/strong> in Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But better still: You just have to love Koh Phangan\u2019s flair. Cosy, relaxed \u2013 just as you would imagine Thailand. Koh Phangan has now established a rather large yoga<\/strong> scene and with it many hip, vegan eateries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More detailed island guide:<\/strong> Koh Phangan<\/a>
Our hotel tip for Koh Phangan:<\/strong> Mangata Boutique Bungalows<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 3-4 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Koh Lanta to Koh Phangan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

This section of the travel route is one of the longer ones, because you need to travel from the west to the east coast. Koh Lanta is located very close to the mainland, therefore you usually cover the first section by minibus<\/strong> (incl. the car ferry). Then you make your way to the pier at Surat Thani. (Be aware, there are two different piers depending on which boat company you choose to travel across with.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The trip across to Koh Phangan on the speed catamaran<\/strong> takes around 2.5 hours. Altogether you need to allow an entire day for this stretch. The easiest option is to book at combo-ticket for the entire stretch when you are in Koh Lanta. A pickup directly from your hotel is always included with this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Haad<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Koh<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Orion<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Optional: Koh Samui or Koh Tao<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are already in Koh Phangan and have more time, then you could of course also pay a visit to the neighbouring island of Koh Samui. Unlike Koh Phangan, the mass tourism is much more evident on Koh Samui<\/strong>. In spite of this, Koh Samui is worth traveling to and there are some really great beaches and places to discover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find our more detailed travel report here:<\/strong> Koh Samui<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The third island in the running is located the furthest away, the wee little island of Koh Tao<\/strong>. Do you enjoy diving? Then there is actually no avoiding Koh Tao. The island is the ultimate diving paradise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui or Koh Tao<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Numerous boats travel<\/strong> between the three islands daily (both fast and slow). It\u2019s only a stone\u2019s throw to Koh Samui (around 30 minutes on a speed catamaran). Koh Tao is located a little further away, therefore the trip takes a little longer from Koh Phangan (around 1 hour on a speed catamaran).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Koh<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bangkok<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Last but not least: The city of all cities in Thailand. Bangkok! Bangkok is a metropolis<\/strong> that you either love or hate. (Spoiler: We love Bangkok \u2013 but only for a few days, then the big city chaos is simply too much for us.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bangkok is purely overwhelming<\/strong>: deafening tuktuks, glimmering temples, lively markets, food stalls everywhere. And then there is also another side of Bangkok: Rooftop bars, chic shopping malls, luxury hotels. Bangkok is a city of contrasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We always quite intentionally leave Bangkok until the end of our travel route, and there are many reasons for this. Bangkok is simply very overwhelming. The city literally rolls over you. We find smaller cities such as Chiang Mai to be much more pleasant for acclimatising when you have just arrived from Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As well as this, we enjoy using our days in Bangkok to pick up one or two souvenirs<\/strong>. The many markets in Bangkok (especially the legendary Chatuchak market) are practically made for it. Last but not least: There is simply nothing better than celebrating with a toast to your trip in one of the numerous rooftop bars above the rooftops of Bangkok. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can find even more info here:<\/strong> Overview of all Bangkok articles<\/a>
Searching for the perfect place to stay? This way:<\/strong> Our hotel tips for Bangkok<\/a>
Recommended length of stay:<\/strong> 3-4 nights<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting from Koh Phangan to Bangkok<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Did you include the optional stop in Koh Samui? Then the fastest way back to Bangkok is definitely by aeroplane<\/strong>. There are many direct connections daily from here. The flight time is around one hour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You cannot fly directly from Koh Phangan, because they do not have an airport there. However, you can travel to Koh Samui (30 minutes on a speed catamaran) and fly to Bangkok from there. Altogether you can complete this stretch in around 3 to 4 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can search for cheap flights here: <\/strong>Skyscanner<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do you have enough time and would prefer to cover this stretch over land<\/strong>? Then your path takes you over water to the mainland (either direction north to Chumphon or direction south to Surat Thani). From there you can either travel by bus or train to Bangkok. Often you will travel overnight to get there. Altogether you need to allow around 12 to 15 hours travel time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Maha<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"Wat<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Skybar<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

2. Map: Overview of the Thailand Itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have marked the individual stops on this map so that you can get a better idea of the travel route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n