17 Days in Thailand: The Perfect Island & Culture Itinerary For First Time Visitors
Last April, I spent 17 days in Thailand, hopping between some of its most beautiful islands, wandering through culture-rich cities, and eating some of the best food I’ve ever had.
If you’re picturing crystal-clear turquoise water, fresh mango smoothies, golden temples and night markets buzzing long after sunset, Thailand should be at the top of your list.
This wasn’t a backpacker trip but it wasn’t luxury either. I stayed in mid-range hotels, booked unforgettable island tours, visited an actual ethical elephant sanctuary, ate incredible food daily, and still kept the total cost (including flights, accommodation, excursions and spending money) to around £2,100.
If you’re looking for a semi-budget Thailand itinerary that balances comfort with value and beach time with culture this 17-day route is the perfect mix.
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Table of Contents
When to Visit Thailand
We chose April because it is one of the hottest months of the year, which means guaranteed sunshine and perfect conditions for island hopping. Places like Koh Samui, Koh Tao and the Phi Phi Islands are at their best with calm, clear water so it is ideal for snorkelling and boat tours.
We hadn’t planned it, but we were also there for Songkran which is Thailand’s famous New Year celebration. Cities and towns turn into huge water fights for several days. It’s one of the most unique cultural experiences you can have in Thailand.
Dry season in Thailand is from November to February which is when it is typically recommended to visit. It will be warm, very little rain, but it is peak season so will be a bit more expensive and busier.
Hot season is March to Early May which typically has good weather, some rain but not loads and can often be a little bit cheaper.
One thing to consider is that Thailand has two main island regions, and their rainy seasons are slightly different:
Andaman Coast (Krabi, Phi Phi) → Best November–April
Gulf Coast (Koh Samui, Koh Tao) → Best January–September (rainiest October–November)
December–March is usually ideal weather almost everywhere.
Stop 1: 1 Night in Bangkok
The first stop was Bangkok as this was where I was able to get a flight into from the UK. We chose to only have one night here, mainly due to only having 17 days for the trip and wanting to prioritise islands and seeing elephants. However, if you have the flexibility to spend more time in Thailand, I would definitely recommend staying a night or two longer.
Where we Stayed
We stayed at Aira Hotel which cost us around £60 for one night. This was a really lovely hotel, it had a rooftop pool to relax at after a long flight and a lovely rooftop bar and restaurant.
Where we Ate
We actually chose to eat at the restaurant in the hotel because it looked amazing, it was on a rooftop, had great cocktails and live music. This was called Pastel restaurant and the food was amazing too.
Best things to do in Bangkok
Start the day in one of Bangkok’s coolest neighbourhoods, Talat Noi. Here you can cafe hop with beautiful riverside views. A great option is Hong Sieng Kong.
Visit the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the breathtaking Grand Palace and the stunning riverside temple Wat Arun. The intricate gold details and architecture give you an instant introduction to Thailand’s rich history and culture. Booking a guided tour is a great way to understand the history behind the temples while navigating the heat and crowds more easily.
If you’re only in Bangkok for one day and want to make the most of it, it’s worth purchasing the TagThai Bangkok Day Pass. It gives you access to over 30 attractions and experiences, so you can completely customise your day. Options include the Mahanakhon Skywalk for 360° city views, the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat to hop between landmarks along the river, relaxing at 8 Elements Spa, or even enjoying authentic Thai cuisine at places like Nara Thai Cuisine at Central World.
It’s valid for 365 days from purchase, and once activated, you have 24 hours to use it, which makes it ideal if you’re short on time. If you want a simple way to bundle together some of the best things to do in Bangkok without booking everything separately, this is a really convenient option.
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When it comes to food, Bangkok is one of the best street food cities in the world. Head to Yaowarat Road in Chinatown for some of the most famous street eats, from fresh seafood to mango sticky rice and crispy pork. There are also plenty of street food tours that let you truly experience the very best of Bangkok’s vibrant culinary scene.
Visit a traditional floating market like Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where wooden boats piled high with fruit, noodles and souvenirs drift along narrow canals.
End the day with skyline views at a rooftop bar like Tichuca Rooftop Bar, where you can watch the sun set over the city with a cocktail in hand.
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Stop 2: 3 Nights in Koh Samui
Our next stop was Koh Samui which is a beautiful island with beautiful beaches, fishing villages, lots of amazing bars and restaurants and so much to do. Whether you’re looking to relax on golden sands, explore local fishing villages, or zipline through a jungle, Koh Samui has something for every type of traveller.
We flew to Koh Samui which is the quickest and easiest way. Direct flights take just over an hour. Koh Samui’s airport is privately owned, which means flights can be a little more expensive, but we booked these in advance and they were quite reasonably priced.
Where we stayed in Koh Samui
We stayed at Canale Samui Resort which I would definitely return to. It is located in Chaweng which is the liveliest and more touristy town in Koh Samui but it perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to experience the island’s nightlife. The area boasts one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, along with a huge selection of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. I chose to stay here to be close to the action, but picked a hotel slightly away from the main strip, which meant we could enjoy the nightlife while still having a peaceful, relaxing base.
Our hotel was about a 15-minute walk from the heart of Chaweng, so we’d usually stroll into town and grab a ride back at the end of the night. It was also conveniently located next to Phensiri Thai Restaurant which is an incredible restaurant that I highly recommend visiting.
While Chaweng is super convenient for its bars, restaurants, and nightlife, it’s definitely very touristy, and not the most picturesque part of the island.
Other towns to stay in Koh Samui
Lamai
Another option is Lamai, about a 15-minute drive from Chaweng. This charming town is much more relaxed, with a beautiful beach, cozy cafés, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. There are still bars with live music, but the nightlife is much calmer compared to the beach clubs in Chaweng. I’d recommend Lamai if you’re looking for a laid-back holiday with great dining options and don’t need nightlife every night. If you do want a livelier evening out, it’s easy to grab a ride to Chaweng.
Bohput/ Fishermans Village
Another great option is Bophut, home to the famous Fisherman’s Night Market and located about 20 minutes from Chaweng. Once a traditional fishing village, Bophut still retains its charm with old wooden buildings that now house restaurants, boutique shops, and stylish cocktail bars. While it’s not the ideal base if your main focus is beach time, it’s a lovely town with a unique blend of traditional character and modern touches.
Best things to do in Koh Samui
Koh Samui isn’t just beautiful, it’s also packed with experiences that make it one of the most memorable stops on your Thailand trip. From serene beaches to vibrant night markets and incredible viewpoints, here are some top activities and places to eat and drink while you’re on the island (many of which are featured in my Koh Samui itinerary) — so you can plan your days perfectly.
Explore Iconic Sights
- Visit Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha)- This giant golden Buddha statue is one of Koh Samui’s most famous landmarks and a peaceful way to start your day.
- Discover Wat Plai Laem- A visually striking temple with an impressive statue of Guanyin, blending Thai and Chinese design.
Overlap Stone Viewpoint & Na Muang Waterfalls- Head inland for jungle scenery, panoramic views and refreshing waterfall swims — perfect for a nature break.
Day Trips & Excursions
Pig Island (Koh Madsum) – I chose this tour because I absolutely love animals, and I’m so glad we went. We booked a small-group trip through GetYourGuide (link below), which made the experience feel personal and relaxed. The first stop was Madsum Island, famous for its free-roaming pigs. It was such a fun experience for animal lovers, but make sure not to pick up the pigs, we saw quite a few visitors stressing them out, and they’re meant to be observed and enjoyed from a distance.
Next, we visited a beautiful snorkelling spot, followed by the final island where lunch was served, a delicious traditional Thai meal. Afterwards, there was free time to kayak or simply relax on the beach. The whole trip felt really private; when we went, there were no other groups, so it truly felt like our own little adventure.
Ang Thong National Marine Park Tour- Another great boat trip if you’re not too keen on the pigs. This is a full‑day boat trip to a breathtaking archipelago with snorkeling, kayaking and hiking to panoramic viewpoints.
Zipline– Another fun activity I would recommend booking is the jungle zipline. This was so much fun abd you get great views of the jungle.
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Koh Samui Restaurant Recommendations
Sea La Vie- A must-visit for sunset dining with an oceanfront seat and creative cocktails. I would recommend reserving a table on the front before sunset so you can soak up the view.
Phensiri Thai Restaurant – A great dinner spot next to the hotel with traditional Thai dishes. This is in the Michelin Guide, and it lived up to our expectations. It was also really reasonably priced, not expensive at all.
Salt Society– This is a stunning beach front restaurant / beach club serving amazing food and cocktails. A bit more on the expensive side.
Fisherman’s Village- not a restaurant but I would definitely recommend visiting for some local street food. It is on every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Jungle Club or Cocoon – For a more scenic afternoon drink or sunset bite, these viewpoints and bars offer sweeping views of the island.
Lamai Night Market- this feels really ‘local’ with street eats and crafts
Bars & Nightlife in Koh Samui
Chom Chada Cocktail Bar – A chilled place for drinks in Chaweng with great vibes and creative cocktails.
Ark Bar – If you’re after beach parties, fire shows and DJs, this beachfront bar in Chaweng is definitely the place to go, this was so much fun.
CoCo Tams– another option for a restaurant that then has a DJ and fireshows later on
Stop 3: 3 Nights in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a small, serene island that completely won me over. It quickly became one of my favourite islands in Thailand. With crystal-clear snorkelling spots, amazing restaurants, and that unmistakable “island vibe,” it’s the perfect place to relax, explore, and soak up the tropical atmosphere. We got the Ferry to Koh Tao which takes about 2 and a half hours. I used the 12Go app for all ferry bookings just so I had the tickets all in one place.
Where we stayed in Koh Tao
We stayed at Matina Mountain Resort which is in the Sairee Beach area but a bit out of the way from the main bit. The walk isn’t too long but it is uphill so that’s something to consider.
Most visitors stay near Sairee Beach, the longest and liveliest beach on the island:
Sairee Beach area – Ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to restaurants, bars, and snorkelling tours. There are plenty of mid-range hotels and guesthouses along the beach, giving you easy access to everything without feeling overcrowded.
Mae Haad / Chalok Baan Kao – Quieter areas, great if you prefer a peaceful stay and don’t mind walking or taking a scooter to reach restaurants and beaches. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying Koh Tao’s slower pace.
Tip: There’s a small strip of hostels in Sairee Beach that can be quite noisy at night. If you prefer a quieter stay, try to avoid booking directly on that street and choose accommodation slightly away from it.
Tips for Getting Around
There’s no Grab or Uber on Koh Tao, so getting around relies on scooter rentals, a few taxi’sor walking.
Scooters are convenient but drive carefully, the roads can be steep and narrow.
Walking between beaches is easy if you stay close to Sairee, but taxis or boats may be needed for farther spots.
Best Things to do in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a small, tranquil island, known for world-class snorkelling, diving spots, and laid-back island vibes.
Snorkelling
There are a number of snorkelling spots which I will list below that are known for spotting some beautiful fish, sharks and turtles.
However I honestly couldn’t recommend booking an organised snorkelling trip enough. This was one of my absolute favourite days in Thailand, the snorkelling was incredible, the guides were really helpful and got underwater photos of you, and the lunch was amazing. I booked my trip with Getyourguide which I will link below, it was only around £20 but it was so well organised.
With this trip you visit Ko Nang Yuan which is a beautiful island with crystal clear waters, and then snorkel at Shark Bay, Leuk Bay, Hin Wong Bay, and Mango Bay.
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Snorkelling spots:
Shark Bay – Famous for spotting blacktip reef sharks while snorkelling. A must-do for animal lovers and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Ao Leuk & Hin Wong Bay – Calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for beginners and those wanting to relax while exploring vibrant coral reefs.
Explore Tanote Bay – A quieter bay known for snorkelling, cliff jumping, and laid-back vibes.
Beaches & Viewpoints in Koh Tao
Sairee Beach- The liveliest beach with restaurants, bars, and beautiful sunsets. Great for a mix of relaxation and social vibes.
Ao Leuk & Tanote Bay- Smaller, quieter beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing away from the main strip.
Take a boat trip to Nang Yuan Island– Walk the iconic sandbar and snorkel some of the best reefs in the area.
John-Suwan Viewpoint – A short hike rewards you with panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters, ideal for sunrise or sunset photos.
Watch sunset at Mango Viewpoint– A stunning hilltop spot offering panoramic island views.
Other Things to Do in Koh Tao
Learn to scuba dive-Koh Tao is one of the world’s most affordable places to get PADI certified, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Experience Koh Tao nightlife-Head to Sairee for beach parties, fire shows, and lively bars after dark.
Restaurants & Bars Recommendations in Koh Tao
Sandbar- a laid-back beachfront spot perfect for sunset cocktails and fresh seafood. This was my favourite place in Koh Tao, but I would recommend booking a table in advance.
995 Duck-is a local favourite serving generous portions of crispy duck and Thai classics at budget-friendly prices.
Whitening Restaurant- known for its fresh seafood, Thai fusion dishes, and romantic sunset setting.
Secret Bar– For sunset views and chilled island vibes, a hidden hillside gem overlooking Sairee Beach.
Fishbowl Beach Bar– a popular bar for nightlife
Barracuda– for fresh seafood
Cafes
The Factory Cafe– for specialty coffee, smoothie bowls, and a relaxed jungle vibe.
Gift Cafe– you can paint post cards here, such a cute idea!
Hippo Cafe– for colourful smoothie bowls and brunch classics near Sairee Beach.
Lazy Coconut Cafe is a cosy brunch spot loved for its hearty breakfasts and laid-back atmosphere
Blue Shark Brunch Cafe is a go-to for colourful smoothie bowls and quality espresso near Sairee Beach
Living Juices & Yoga is perfect for health-focused travellers looking for cold-pressed juices, plant-based meals, and wellness vibes.
Stop 4: 3 Nights in Krabi
Our next stop was Krabi which is one of southern Thailand’s most stunning coastal destinations, known for limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, island hopping, and relaxed beach towns.
We got the Ferry here from Koh Tao which took around 6 hours and again we booked this on the 12Go app.
Where we stayed in Krabi
We stayed at Infinity Aonang Hotel which is a modern and affordable hotel located just outside the main beach strip in Ao Nang.
I would definitely recommend this hotel, the rooms were big and modern and they offered room service. There is a large swimming pool and rooftop pool. It is also set in a quieter setting away from the busiest tourist streets, while still being close enough to restaurants and tour offices for excursions.
We were in Krabi during Songkran so it was quite nice to be able to get off the main streets for a bit!
Best Areas to Stay in Krabi
Ao Nang
Ao Nang is the most popular area to stay in Krabi and the best choice for first-time visitors. You’ll find the widest range of hotels, restaurants, bars, and tour operators here. It’s also the main departure point for island hopping trips and boats to Railay Beach. If you want convenience, nightlife, and plenty of food options, Ao Nang is the ideal base.
Railay Beach
Railay Beach is only accessible by boat, giving it a more secluded, tropical island feel. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise water, it’s perfect for couples or travellers wanting a quieter, more scenic stay. Accommodation here tends to be slightly more expensive, but the setting is unbeatable.
Best Things to Do in Krabi
Visit Railay Beach-Visit Railay Beach by longtail boat, known for dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water, and a relaxed tropical vibe. Getting to Railay Beach from Ao Nang is quick and easy, you can only reach Railay by boat due to the surrounding limestone cliffs.
Departure point: Ao Nang Beach (look for the ticket booth near the main beach entrance)
Journey time: 10–15 minutes
Do the 4 Islands Tour– Explore Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Tup Island for snorkelling, sandbars, and turquoise lagoons.
Swim at Emerald Pool– A natural bright-blue jungle pool perfect for cooling off after a short forest walk.
Relax at Phra Nang Cave Beach- One of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches, famous for its soft white sand and iconic cave shrine.
Climb Tiger Cave Temple – climb the 1,260 steps for breathtaking panoramic views over Krabi’s limestone landscape.
Explore Ao Nang– Enjoy beachfront restaurants, boat trips, shopping, and vibrant sunsets in Krabi’s main tourist hub.
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Best Restaurants & Bars in Krabi
Kodam Kitchen – Famous for authentic Thai dishes and seafood in a relaxed setting; perfect for lunch or dinner.
The Last Fisherman -A hidden gem serving freshly caught seafood with stunning sunset views over the water.
The Hilltop – Offers panoramic views of Ao Nang and Railay with cocktails and international dishes; ideal for romantic evenings.
Dragon View Bar – A lively bar known for great drinks, friendly vibes, and sunset watching.
Bamboo Beach Club – Beachfront club serving tropical cocktails, casual bites, and live music right on Ao Nang Beach.
Ao Nang Landmark Night Market – Perfect for street food, local snacks, and a lively evening atmosphere.
Lae Lay Grill – Renowned for fresh seafood, Thai curries, and cliffside views overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Jungle Kitchen – A cozy spot for Thai home-cooked meals surrounded by lush greenery.
The Grotto- Set inside a limestone cave at Rayavadee, offering fine dining with unforgettable seaside views.
Krua Phranang- Beachfront Thai restaurant with fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere near Phra Nang Beach.
Stop 5: 2 Nights in Phi Phi
From Krabi, we got the ferry over to the Phi Phi Islands which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes and booked this on the 12Go app.
The Phi Phi Islands are one of Thailand’s most iconic island destinations, famous for turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, vibrant nightlife, and world-class snorkelling.
I heard mixed reviews before visiting here, some people saying there’s not much to do, or just to visit for a day from Krabi but it actually turned out to be one of my favourite stops on the trip. It is a really small island, but the sea is so blue, there are some amazing restaurants so I would definitely recommend staying at least 2 nights here.
Where We Stayed in Phi Phi
We stayed at Panmanee Hotel which offered comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Tonsai Pier. While it was a great base for exploring the islands, we wished we had upgraded a little and stayed at Phi Phi Bayview Resort, where we spent one of our days relaxing. The resort offers stunning views of the bay, perfect for a truly relaxing island experience.
Best Things to Do in Phi Phi
Private Longtail Boat Tour- this was one of my favourite memories of the whole trip. We booked a private longtail boat tour to Maya Bay and Phileh Lagoon which was just incredible. We booked the earlier sunrise tour so we were able to get onto Maya Bay without too many tourists there which was stunning. Then the best part was Pileh Lagoon which has beautiful emerald-green waters and dramatic limestone formations. It was like off a film!
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Climb to the Viewpoint– Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the islands and turquoise bays.
Beach Relaxation– Chill at Long Beach for sunbathing and swimming.
Nightlife– Experience lively beach bars and fire shows
Best Restaurants in Phi Phi
Acqua Restaurant- A modern, upscale spot offering Italian cuisine and cocktails
Pad Thai Phi Phi- Famous for its fresh, authentic Pad Thai and other Thai street food classics, ideal for a quick and tasty meal.
Anna’s Restaurant – Delicious Thai and Western dishes with fresh ingredients.
Garlic 1992- A lively restaurant with a focus on bold-flavoured Thai and fusion dishes
Papaya Restaurant – Affordable, tasty Thai meals and seafood.
Best Cafes in Phi Phi
Patcharee French Bakery – A charming bakery offering fresh pastries, croissants, and excellent coffee; perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Much & Mellow- A highly rated café on Phi Phi Don known for its rich specialty coffee, freshly baked pastries, and relaxed island vibe, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick‑me‑up.
Coffee Club Phi Phi – Popular for specialty coffees, smoothies, and casual brunch in a laid‑back setting.
Phi Phi Bakery & Cafe- Offers delicious pastries, light meals, and refreshing smoothie, great for a midday break.
Earthtone- A popular café and wellness spot serving great coffee, smoothie bowls, and healthy bites in a laid‑back setting.
Slinky Beach Bar– Iconic beachfront bar on Loh Dalum Beach known for loud music, dancing, and nightly fire shows right on the sand.
Best Bars in Phi Phi
Monkey Smile – refreshing cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere; great for chilled drinks before heading out.
Carlito’s Bar – A buzzing beachfront bar with reggae and house tunes that transitions into an energetic nightspot with fire shows on the beach.
Sunflower Beach Bar – Chill beachfront bar with hammocks and live music, plus fire shows as the night builds
Stop 6: 4 Nights in Chiang Mai
Our final stop of the trip was Chiang Mai where we chose to spend 4 nights.
Spending four nights in Chiang Mai gives you the perfect mix of culture, nature, food and nightlife. Known as the cultural heart of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai blends ancient temples and mountains with a modern food, cafe and bar scene.
This journey took a little longer than the others. We first had to take a ferry to Phuket which took around an hour. We then had an evening flight to Chiang Mai which takes around 2 hours, this was with AirAsia.
Where We Stayed in Chiang Mai
We stayed at at Stay with Nimman, which is a stylish and comfortable hotel in the heart of the Nimman area. This area is perfect for exploring the city’s best cafés, restaurants and bars on foot, and an easy starting point for day trips and experiences around Chiang Mai.
Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai
Visit Elephant Nature Park– this was my absolute favourite experience of the whole trip. This is one of Thailands most well‑known ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can spend a full day learning about rescued elephants in a humane environment. I booked the care for elephant package and it was the most magical day, I couldn’t recommend it enough.
Thai Cooking Class– another great activity we booked was a traditional Thai cooking class. Here we started with a market visit and learned how to prepare authentic northern Thai dishes. This was so much fun and felt really authentic!
Explore Old City Temples -Visit ancient temples like Wat Chiang Man and soak up Chiang Mai’s Lanna heritage (with stunning architecture and peaceful grounds).
Night Markets & Street Food- Wander through vibrant night markets like the Sunday Walking Street or local markets to taste northern Thai specialities and shop handmade crafts.
Outdoor Adventures- If you’re craving nature, consider trips to sticky waterfalls, jungle hikes or cultural craft villages just outside Chiang Mai.
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Best Restaurants & Bars in Chiang Mai
Nimman Bar & Grill- Great modern European menu in the heart of Nimman.
Dash-Famous for traditional Thai dishes in a beautiful teakwood house setting
Maison Chiang Mai- Beautiful restaurant for modern Thai and fusion dishes in a stylish setting.
Today. Curry Bar & Beer- Highly‑rated Japanese curry spot in Nimman with rich, flavourful dishes and local beer.
Khao Soi Maesai- A must‑visit for northern Thai comfort food, especially the iconic khao soi curry noodle soup.
Chai “N” Thai @ Nimman- Popular Indian restaurant with a wide menu range (veg & non‑veg).
Bars
North Gate Jazz Co‑op- Live jazz music in the Old City for a chill evening
The White Rabbit – One of Chiang Mai’s most talked‑about speakeasy cocktail bars, hidden above Phrapokklao Road in the Old Town with expertly crafted drinks and creative twists on classics in an intimate setting.
Surr Bar- Stylish rooftop cocktail bar with great views and creative drinks.
MAI The Sky Bar- Iconic rooftop bar with panoramic city views
The Writers Club & Wine Bar- Cozy wine bar and literary-inspired spot for cocktails, wine, and relaxed conversation.
Bitter Truth Bar– Quiet craft cocktail bar known for quality drinks and a relaxed vibe.
Forbidden bar- Hidden cocktail spot with a speakeasy feel and artisanal drinks.
Zoe in Yellow area (tight cluster of bars)- Big party vibe with cheap drinks and backpacker crowd.
Best Cafes in Chiang Mai
Fern Forest Café- A tranquil café tucked in a green space, serving fresh coffee, smoothie bowls, and light meals in a peaceful environment.
Carp Café- Creative café with specialty coffee, pastries, and Instagram-worthy décor, ideal for a relaxing coffee break.
Toffee Roasters- Highly‑rated local roastery with rich, smooth coffee.
Ristr8to Original- One of Chiang Mai’s most famous specialty coffee spots, known for creative brews and latte art.
The Barisotel by The Baristro- Popular café with excellent coffee and relaxed vibes.
Wrapping Up Our 17 Days in Thailand
From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tropical beaches of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, the dramatic cliffs of Krabi, the iconic beauty of the Phi Phi Islands, and the cultural charm of Chiang Mai, our 17-days in Thailand was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local experiences.
We explored vibrant markets, sampled delicious street food, enjoyed sunset cocktails on the islands, snorkelled in crystal-clear waters, visited ethical elephant sanctuaries, and even learned to cook authentic Thai dishes. Each destination offered something unique, from island paradise vibes to northern Thai culture and mountain views, making this itinerary ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a full Thailand experience.
Whether you’re chasing stunning beaches, cultural temples, epic nightlife, or serene cafés and mountain retreats, this 17-day trip showcases the best of Thailand, leaving unforgettable memories at every stop.
Practical Tips for Travelling Around Thailand
1. Use the 12Go App for Transportation- this app is a lifesaver for booking ferries but also any buses or trains you may need. You can compare prices and have all of your tickets saved in one place.
2. Get an e-sim- Some people recommend buying a local SIM card at the airport or in the 7 11 shops but I would really recommend getting an eSIM before you arrive. It means less risk of losing your sim as you don’t have to take it out at all, and you can set it up before you arrive and just activate it when you land so you have service straight away. I use Airalo and I got good signal everywhere.
3. Carry Cash (Baht)- many smaller businesses and local street markets only take cash. ATMs are widely available, but they charge withdrawal fees so I would recommend taking cash out with you.
4. Dress Modestly for Temples-
5. Thailand’s temples are sacred spaces, and modest clothing is required. Cover shoulders and knees. Long trousers or skirts and sleeved tops are best.
6. Use GetYourGuide for Tours & Activities
7. Stay Safe with Transportation- Tuk-tuks and taxis: Always negotiate fares or ensure the meter is used. I used Grab in most places.
About Amelia
Hi! I’m Amelia, a travel content creator and blogger who loves exploring new destinations, experiencing new cultures, and ticking off as much of my bucket list as possible!
I love to find the best things to do, best places to eat, drink and explore so I have created this blog to share my experiences and recommendations so that I can hopefully help you plan your perfect next trip away.
