The Perfect 10-Day Thailand Itinerary: From Bangkong To Phuket In 240 Hours

Does your bucket list consist of Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai? Are you still confused about what to do and where to go in those places? Do you need a detailed plan to follow? Then explore the Thailand itinerary 10 days right below from CabinZero. You’ll explore must-see attractions, foods, and practical advice for transportation and accommodation to have a smooth trip. There’ll also be a detailed breakdown of costs to help you estimate the necessary finance and avoid being overpriced as a foreign visitor. Read now and get to know the beautiful beaches, the sacred temples, and the stunning scenery.

Thailand Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Which month is better to go to Thailand? November to February should be the ultimate choice. Photo by nikomsolftwaer on Adobe Stock

Best Time to Visit Thailand

The best time to travel to Thailand is during the dry season, from November to February. The weather is cooler and the humidity is lower, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so book your hotels, restaurants, and attractions in advance.

What to Pack

Travelling to a tropical country, you should pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear for your 10 days Thailand itinerary.

Bring long-sleeved clothing to protect against insects, sun, and high temperatures, and to wear at temples that require solemnity and respect. Otherwise, a sarong or large scarf is the most reasonable alternative. 

Footwear only needs to bring 2 pairs, slip-on shoes or sandals (bring them with you or buy them in Thailand to save space), and closed-toe shoes for both daily walking and outdoor activities.

You should bring your own sunscreen and medications as they are prescribed for your skin and health condition.

Hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent can all be purchased in Thailand.

In addition to your passport, you will also need travel insurance, copies of necessary documents, and cash because Thailand is a very cash-centric country.

Don't forget a spare charger and travel adaptor for your electronic devices. You can visit this link for a more comprehensive list.

Getting Around Thailand

Domestic Flights

Air travel is a quick option for travelling between locations in Thailand, although it is not necessarily the most convenient. Thailand has an airport system that connects Bangkok to all the popular tourist destinations, such as Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Phuket, and Krabi, so visitors can easily get anywhere.

You can choose budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, or Thai Airways if you only need to travel from A to B, or full-service ones such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways if you require full services such as food or entertainment on the flight. 

In Bangkok, there are 2 airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, mainly for international flights, and Bangkok Don Mueang Airport, mainly for domestic and budget flights.

Ways to get from the airport to the city centre include: airport rail link, airport bus, metered taxis, and grab/ride sharing. Be aware that taxi and ride-sharing services often have additional toll road charges on top of the fare.

Tuk-Tuks and Grab

It’s impossible not to try a Tuk-tuk whilst on your 10-day Thailand itinerary. Photo by tampatra on Adobe Stock

Tuk-tuk and Grab are the two most popular transportation options for nearby locations - around 10km/miles or less.

If you take a tuk-tuk, you need to negotiate the price from the beginning to avoid being overpriced. Some tuk-tuk drivers can be scams, offering free tours and taking you to shopping stops.

Remember to check the map carefully and confirm the exact location you need to go to. Check the map continuously on the go. Finally, do not take a tuk-tuk when there is a traffic jam, hold on tight, and be aware of your surroundings since Tuk-tuks are open-air. 

Grab can be a better choice because the price is fixed on the app, and you can take advantage of discount codes. Before getting on, remember to check the license plate number carefully to see if it matches the number displayed on the app to avoid being scammed.

Trains

You should book tickets in advance through 12Go.Asia, Baolau, or the official Thai Railways D-Ticket website, may be a few months in advance if it is peak season.

Overall, the train is quite clean, and the toilets are cleaned regularly, so you don't need to worry too much about hygiene. Don't forget to bring an eye mask if you are a light sleeper, food if you don't like car food, and a safety.

The conductor will check your ticket once you board the train, so keep it safe. The train will shake a bit, and there will be no announcements about the next destination, so ask the conductor for details. 

Buses

If you choose to take the bus, be prepared for a cheaper price but a less comfortable experience. Overnight buses in Thailand don't usually have fully flat beds or real meal service, so the chances of you getting a good night's sleep are slim. You may also have to deal with loud people. If possible, choose VIP buses that offer more comfortable reclining seats and amenities like charging points and WiFi. Tickets start from just €10.

Visa

Thailand offers visa-free entry to many countries, including most European and American countries, for 60 days. This means you can visit the country without needing to apply for a visa. 

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, have a return ticket, a confirmed hotel reservation, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your trip. Most importantly, you must not be on the list of people banned from entering Thailand. 

From 1 May 2025, everyone travelling to Thailand must complete the digital arrival card (TDAC). You can register for an arrival card 3 days prior.

If you need a visa, you can apply online through the Official Thai E-Visa website.

Currency

Make sure to exchange as much cash as possible whilst on your Thailand 10 days trip. Photo by Thannaree on Adobe Stock

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). It is a cash-centric country, so if possible, exchange money before entering the country or, if not, at the airport or at a reputable place with a good exchange rate. Remember to count your money carefully in front of the staff and keep your receipts, as some airports may require it to exchange money back into foreign currency.

Not sure how much money to bring to Thailand? Check out this simple guide.

Cultural Etiquette

Thailand is a Buddhist country and values etiquette, so when visiting this country, you need to understand, respect, and treat the people properly. Besides, just be polite and kind, and things will sort themselves out. Thai people are among the friendliest you will meet.

Dos:

• Dress modestly, covering your knees and shoulders, to show respect at places of worship.

• Take off your shoes when entering temples, shrines, or other people's homes.

• Respect monks, do not touch them, and do not gossip about them.

• Respect the Thai royal family.

Don'ts:

• Do not touch other people's heads or point your feet at people or sacred objects. Try tucking your feet when sitting down.

• Do not touch or even sit on Buddha statues.

• Do not take Buddha images out of Thailand.

• Do not whistle at night.

• Limit public displays of affection.

Your Detailed 10-Day Thailand Schedule

Days 1-4: Bangkok

Day 1:

Where to go in Thailand? As the capital, Bangkok should be the first choice thanks to its many fun places, food, and activities. Visiting Thai temples is a mist. The first stop is the Grand Palace, the centre of Thai royalty and Buddhism, with buildings of unique architecture.

Get there before 10 am to avoid the heat and crowds. There is an MRT nearby, but you can also take the BTS (sky train) or taxi and river boat to see the sights. 

The Grand Palace has a strict dress code; you must not expose your shoulders, knees, or feet. If you do not have appropriate clothing, you can rent trousers and tops at the entrance.

Expect a lot of walking as the place is very large, and buy a tour if possible to learn more about the culture and history. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite, but you should also check the website for opening times in case there are any events.

The Grand Palace is a must-see on a typical Thailand itinerary 10 days. Photo by tisomboon on Adobe Stock

In the afternoon, stop by nearby Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha. You don’t need to spend too much time here, as the experience is similar to the Grand Palace. Also, as one of the must-try activities in Bangkok, there are plenty of other temples to explore if you have the time and energy. 

In the evening, watch the sunset from the Chao Phraya River at Rongros, a Michelin-recommended restaurant. You’ll be able to see Wat Arun lit up in all its glory at sunset. A sunset river cruise is the perfect option if you want to cruise up and down the Chao Phraya River whilst enjoying dinner and entertainment onboard.

Day 2: 

On the second day of your Thailand itinerary 10 days, will be spent visiting famous markets such as Maeklong Railway Market and Amphawa Floating Market.

Maeklong Railway Market, as its name suggests, will have a train passing through the market, slowly. Get to the market at least 15-20 minutes before the train arrives to secure a good spot for viewing and photos. Trains pass through the market each day at 8:30 am, 9 am, 11:15 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 5:40 pm. 

Shops will close at 5 pm and mostly only accept cash, so it is best to arrive in the morning and have cash ready. There will be a red line marked on the ground for your safety; stay behind it at all times, especially when the train is approaching.

Amphawa Floating Market attracts millions of visitors yearly. Photo by nimon_t on Adobe Stock

In the afternoon, you can go to the Amphawa Floating Market, which is also the best time to watch the sunset. The market is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 2 pm to 9 pm. For your convenience, go on a tour; you won't have to worry about transportation and other issues. Bring cash and wear comfortable clothes, and wear sandals so if you get wet, it won't be a problem.

In the evening, stop by Chinatown to join a Thai street food tour or explore Yaowarat Road at night to sample the wide variety of dishes. You can also explore the smaller alleyways to find unique shops and more street art.

Day 3:

Jim Thompson House is the first destination to start your third day of the Thailand itinerary 10 days in Bangkok. 

Take the BTS Skytrain to the National Stadium station and exit at Exit 1 or take a Grab or taxi. The museum opens daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the ticket price for adults being €6.7, children from €10 to €21 years old, people with disabilities being €4, and free for children under 10 years old.

It usually takes about 90 minutes to visit the whole museum, and you will need to take a tour for about 30 minutes. Given the warm weather, wear breathable clothes so that you don't get too hot when walking around. You can freely take photos outside the house, but limit filming and taking selfies inside. 

Thailand also has a more modern side, represented by the malls. Photo by pierrick on Adobe Stock

Spend the afternoon and evening visiting Siam Square One. This is a shopping, entertainment, and dining complex with many fashion stores from famous brands and restaurants. Siam Square One is located in a prime location near the BTS (sky train) station, and it's directly connected to Siam Station by a sky bridge. 

If you want a more affordable experience, you can visit the MBK Center. This place also has a wide variety of items, from clothes to electronics. Each floor at the MBK Center focuses on a certain type of goods, making it easy for visitors to find the desired product. After shopping, you can enjoy a variety of dishes at the centre's diverse food court.

Day 4:

You can start your last day of the Thailand itinerary 10 days in Bangkok at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. The building itself is an impressive modern design with a glass and steel facade, making it an ideal photo spot.

There are many unique works of art as well as interesting cultural and artistic performances. Admission is completely free for everyone. The BACC is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. It’s located in the heart of Bangkok, so you can easily get there by various means of transport, such as the BTS (sky train).

Or if you want to experience more outdoor activities, Lumphini Park is a reasonable choice. There are nearly 15,000 visitors to the park every day, and this is the most famous park in Bangkok. There are many interesting activities that you can participate in, such as pedalling around the lake, feeding turtles, watching lizards, or simply lying on the grass. You can get here by MRT or BTS (sky train).

Get a panoramic view of Bangkok from Wat Saket. Photo by Only Fabrizio on Adobe Stock

In the afternoon, visit Wat Saket (Golden Mount), the oldest temple in Bangkok. You can get there by taxi, just tell the location and the driver will take you there, but remember to negotiate the price clearly from the beginning.

Wear comfortable shoes (you will have to climb 344 steps under the heat), wear appropriate clothes, and do not expose your shoulders and knees. This is a great place to enjoy the sacred, peaceful atmosphere and admire the city of Bangkok at sunset.

At the end of the day, enjoy your time at Tichuca Rooftop Bar with giant neon jellyfish arranged everywhere. There won’t be an entrance fee, but you have to buy drinks for about €11. After the rooftop bar closes, you can move to the club located below for free access. The bar is located near Thong Lor station, so you can easily access it by BTS.

Where to stay in Bangkok:

The most popular destinations are:

• Khao San/Banglamphu: suitable for backpackers with affordable hostels and guesthouses. Can be busy and noise at times.

• Siam and Sukhumvit: areas with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and hotels for all budgets. Best for first-timers.

• Bangkok Riverside: offers a more local experience. Prices are a bit cheaper here.

Day 5-7: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. To travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you can take a plane or an overnight sleeper train. Planes are a reasonable choice if you are short on time, and flights from Bangkok are quite affordable. On the contrary, you can leisurely take the train to see the scenery.

A sneak peak: 21 Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Day 5:

When in Chiang Mai, you cannot miss Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the iconic temple of Thai Buddhism with its bold Thai architecture. To fully explore the whole place, it will probably take a whole day because you will spend 4-6 hours walking to both Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, visiting the temple, drinking coffee, taking photos, and walking back. Wear comfortable and appropriate clothes because this is a sacred place.

From Chiang Mai to Doi Suthep, you can take a Songthaew, a red trucks that act as shared taxis with 9 other people and costs only €1 each way. For the more adventurous, you can rent a motorbike and travel on the winding mountain roads at your own pace.

In the evening, walk around Chiang Mai Night Bazaar leisurely near the riverside, which is open every night. There are many food stalls, live music, and Muay Thai matches.

A must-try is the regional Northern Thai dishes Khao Soi and Sai Oua (herbal sausage). Come to Khao Soi Khun Yai to have a taste; this place is often considered the best place to eat for Khao Soi.

If you want, you can stop by Nimmanhiem, a popular neighbourhood for Thai students and digital nomads.

Day 6: 

The next destination of our Thailand itinerary 10 days in Chiang Mai, is Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon National Park. You will want to stay 1 night here to experience it fully. You can rent a bungalow, lodge, or homestay at an affordable price. 

If you go between November and February, the weather will be quite cold; it can drop to 3°C, so bring warm clothes, scarves, and gloves. It will take about 2 hours to travel from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon, and it’d be better if you go early in the morning.

The park entrance ticket costs €8 for experiences such as visiting Hill tribe villages, Royal Pagodas (plus €1), trekking, etc. Remember to bring cash because there will be no ATM here, and buy gas before entering Doi Inthanon if you drive.

There are three official hiking trails in the park: Kew Mae Pan, Pha Dok Siew, for about €5 /group with a local guide, and Ang Ka for free access.

Day 7: 

There are many temples to explore in Thailand for 10 days. Photo by Quality Stock Arts on Adobe Stock

After returning to Chiang Mai from Doi Inthanon, you can visit other famous temples such as Wat Pan Tao, Wat Jet Lin, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Rajamontea, or Wat Lok Molee (Moli).

These temples are all located in or very close to the Old City area of Chiang Mai and are only about 500-1.5km apart, so travelling between them is extremely easy. Visit them all within half a day by walking or cycling is doable. 

If you want, you can also cut down the time to go to the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center or Lanna Folklife Center to learn about the history and culture of this Thai northern city.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Lanna-style dinner at Chiang Mai Gate Market or join a Thai cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.

Don't forget to experience the Thai massage here at luxurious places, or more affordable places like Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution Vocational Training Center.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai:

The most popular destinations are:

• The Old City: suitable for first-time visitors and those who love history and culture because it is quite close to famous temples and pagodas.

• Nimmanheim: suitable for those who love nightlife with many restaurants, bars, etc.

• Riverside: for those who want a luxury experience, suitable for couples and families.

• Night Bazaar: suitable for backpackers.

• Santitham: famous for digital nomads.

Day 7-10: The Andaman Sea

Day 7:

You will spend your last 3 days in Thailand on the Andaman Sea to admire clear blue waters, breathtaking views, and fine white sand. To get here from Chiang Mai, the best option is to fly to Phuket or Krabi. 

If you like a party vibe, youthfulness, choose Phuket, but if you like a relaxing, peaceful vibe, choose Krabi.

We will base ourselves in Phuket because there are more activities to experience here. After landing at Phuket airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the hotel you booked in Patong (30-45 minutes).

Patong is the entertainment centre of Phuket, and the beach here is famous for its 3 km long golden sand beach and clear water. 

There are many interesting sea activities you can participate in, such as diving, rowing, windsurfing, paragliding, and jet skiing. After swimming, in the evening, stop by to eat seafood or walk around the streets, night markets, and cafes by the sea, then return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow's schedule to Phi Phi Island.

Day 8:

Joining a Phi Phi island tour is a must for your Thailand itinerary 10 days. Photo by Jo Panuwat D on Adobe Stock

The second day we will spend on the Phi Phi Islands tour. You can book your Phi Phi Island tour through popular online travel platforms such as Viator, Get Your Guide, Klook Travel, and Phi Phi Island Tours.

The tour company will likely pick you up at your hotel in Patong by minivan/bus and take you to the port. From here, you will take a speedboat/ferry to Koh Phi Phi.

Most tours will include famous attractions such as Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island. You will be able to snorkel and dive in the Andaman Sea as well as admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and the unique Viking Cave.

Day 9: 

On this day, we’ll take another tour in the Similan Islands. The place is a paradise for diving and snorkelling with crystal clear water and excellent visibility.

Visitors can admire colourful coral reefs, meet tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks at famous dive sites such as Richelieu Rock. 

However, because the archipelago is only open to tourists from October to May to protect the ecosystem, please arrange your schedule accordingly.

In the evening, visit Bangla Road to experience the bars and nightclubs. Patong is also home to many markets, ensuring you can find any item or try any dish from over 20 cuisines around the world. Don't forget to watch Thai Boxing/Muay Thai Fights, which usually start from 9 pm to midnight.

Day 10:

On our last day in Patong, spend it wandering around the local market to buy souvenirs or visit Big Buddha Phuket, Wat Chalong, if you have time prior going to the airport.

Most will likely fly home directly from Phuket International Airport (HKT). in that case, you should depart at least 3-3.5 hours before your flight to have enough time to check in and go through security.

Reaching the airport by Grab, Bolt, or taxi is cheap and easy, about €19-€27. Check in online in advance to save time and be prepared to queue to go through customs, especially during peak season. 

There will be no direct VAT refund at the airport for all stores, so it is best to ask for documents at the store when making a purchase.

How Much Does A 10 Day Thailand Trip Cost? Estimated Travel Budget

Transportation

Flights

What is the cheapest month to go to Thailand? January is normally the best month to book cheap flights, whilst prices will be higher from August to December as it’s the peak tourist season

Costs differ based on where you are flying from..

• If flying from the UK, it will be around €650-€1,100 for a one-way ticket.

• From the US, it will be €600 to €1,100 for a one-way flight.

• Domestic flights in Thailand are quite cheap, from only €25-€42.

Train

Fares range from €16 to €65 for first to third class. Each class has different amenities, but the most popular and affordable is the second class, which has air conditioning and comfortable seats for a trip between cities.

Bus

If you are travelling long distances, overnight buses are the best option. Tickets start from just €10 for a reclining seat with all the amenities you need, like wifi and charging stations.

Tuk-tuks

Depending on the distance and terrain, tuk-tuk or Grab drivers will charge you differently. Normally, locals will have to pay about €1-€1.5 for 1km of tuk-tuk travel; however, if you are a foreign tourist, the price will be increased by about 2-3 times.

Some drivers can charge up to €85 for a short distance, so research the price by asking or checking online, and negotiate clearly from the beginning to avoid being overcharged. 

Ride Hailing App

Grab and Bolt are popular ways to get around Bangkok. Photo by Jo Panuwat D - stock.adobe.com

If you are in the city, we recommend you take Grab and Bolt because the price is fixed on the app. They are the most reliable bet for cars, bikes, and even food delivery pretty much everywhere. For solo travellers, this is a game-changer. Book a motorbike taxis and you will breeze past Bangkok's infamous gridlock. That said, rush hour in Bangkok is no joke. Give yourself plenty of extra time for the drivers to arrive.

Accommodation

There are 4 popular types of accommodation in Thailand:

• Hotel (3-5 stars): €45-€170/ night

• Bungalows: €19/ night

• Hostels: €6-€11/ night

• Guesthouse: €10-€25/ night

Food

On average, you will spend about €14/ day on food. If you prefer rustic experiences, you will only have to spend about €4 on street food. If you belong to the "high-income" group and prioritise convenient experiences, the price of a meal can be as high as €50-1,000.

Activities

The most money you will spend is on tours, like those at The Andaman Sea. Tours will cost from €25-€85/person, including meals, shuttle bus, ferry, and diving gear. 

Entrance fees to tourist attractions are usually quite cheap; for example, the entrance fee to the famous Grand Palace is only €13. Many places have free admission.

Daily Budget Sample

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Start the Journey to Your Dream Land

Thailand must be an ideal tourist destination for many, with plenty of interesting places to visit and exciting activities. Thailand itinerary 10 days is great for you to travel through the major cities, and it will definitely bring you great memories. Let us know your opinion about the information and tips that Cabin Zero has compiled above. Also, follow our social channels and share the article if you find it useful for fellow vacationers.

Ky Duyen