After two years living in The Land of Smiles, I’ve designed the ultimate one month Thailand itinerary to help you experience the best of this amazing country. I am spilling all the tea, my favorite hidden gems & spots to visit. This is my magnum opus lol. Everything I wish I knew before visiting Thailand.
So, per my preferences, this is how I’d spend a perfect month in Thailand (not super touristy!) Of course, part of the fun is adventuring on your own — these spots are perfect springboards to make your own adventures. I’m into hiking, good food, nature, chill beaches, holistic activities, and good vibes. Let’s dive in!
One Month Thailand Itinerary
Days 1-3: Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand’s bustling capital (and where you will most likely fly into). I’ve been to BKK 5+ times & love it for a weekend. Here’s how to kick off your trip:
- Stay: Use Chase credit card points to book a room at Hyatt Place Sukhumvit—central location, modern amenities, rooftop pool, delicious breakfast (all free with credit card points at 3,500 / points / night in off season!)
- Relax: Rejuvenate at Yunomori Onsen & Spa Sathorn 10 with a Japanese-Thai-inspired soak and massage. This is a relaxing oasis with amazing baths & zen vibes. I come here every time I’m in Bangkok!
- Explore: Stroll through Benchakitti Park and spot the monitor lizards basking in the sun. This is my favorite park in Bangkok — it’s a lush jungle in the middle of the city.
- Adventure: Dance the night away on a Bangkok Island sunset boat party with live music and stunning views of the river at night. My FAV thing to do in Bangkok (plan your trip around this lol)
- Culture: Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and explore the hidden temples along the river via local boat (cost 20 baht to get on a local boat — so fun)
- Eat: Feast on the best Thai food in the world
Days 4-7: Chiang Mai
Escape the chaos of Bangkok and immerse yourself in Thailand’s spiritual, cultural city (and my favorite place in Thailand):
- Stay THEE Vijit Lanna. Around $100 a night for a beautifully designed Lanna hotel. Stunning rooms, amazing breakfast, and a peaceful retreat still in the heart of the old city.
- Wake up early and explore the Old City’s charming temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan. Mornings are peaceful and great for people-watching as locals open shops and the city really comes to life. Wander the quiet streets to discover hidden nooks and over 300 temples without the midday heat or crowds !!
- Head to the best coffee shops in this cafe hub with places like Akha Ama Phrasingh for high-quality coffee with a beautiful mission — this cafe supports indigenous coffee growers in northern Thailand. If you want more coffee shop recs, check out my blog post on 7 best cafes in Chiang Mai.
- Walk over to Sun Rays Cafe for breakfast. This cozy brunch spot in the Old City serves beautifully presented dishes — however, prepared for a wait, as it’s small and popular, but the aesthetic vibes and delicious food make it worth it!
- Take a muay thai class — one of the most fun (and brutal) workouts you will ever have. The instructors are wonderful and it’s realllyyy fun to punch stuff. Usually you can find an hour private lesson (or with 2 people) for around 400-500 baht.
Enjoying my one month Thailand itinerary? Check out hidden spots in Thailand for even more off-the-grid places.
- Take a 20-minute drive or Grab ride to Royal Park Rajapruek . This stunning park features flower gardens, temples, and international exhibits. Rent a bike to explore and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Entry is 150 baht—bring cash!
- Drive along the scenic mountain roads near the park. These wide, winding roads are perfect for motorbiking. Stop at Valley Coffee by Lanna Resort, and either turning back or keep going to Samoeng Viewpoint for breathtaking landscapes.
- Visit The Cocoon Sauna & Ice Bath, a hidden gem just 10 minutes from the park. For 250 baht, enjoy access to saunas, ice baths, and serene lounging spots. Unwind with INCREDIBLE cycles of sauna, ice bath, and pool relaxation. And repeat. Bring a book or journal and soak in the sabai sabai vibes.
- Head back to the Old City for an oil massage at Green Bamboo. For only 350 baht, you’ll get top-notch service in a stunning Lanna-style setting. I’ve probably had 20+ massages from here and they are always excellent. Be sure to book an appointment, as it’s popular.
- Take a cooking class — when my mom visited this was one of her favorite activities! You can do a half / full day in the countryside or city. I would recommend a half day countryside visit in the rice fields. It’s so fun!
- Dine at May Kaidee, Chiang Mai’s best vegetarian Thai restaurant. Fresh, flavorful dishes are made to order, and the family-owned hole in the wall sources the freshest ingredients — literally, they will leave and quickly go to the market if they run out of an ingredient lol. Favorites include the steamed noodles with curry peanut sauce, red curry, banana flower salad, and coconut iced coffee. Most dishes are 70-100 baht. Check out my fav veggie friendly restaurants in Chiang Mai for more recs at different price points.
- Chill at Chiang Mai’s vibrant & laid-back nightlife:
- Pura Vida at One Nimman: : A fun cocktail bar where expats gather.
- Paapu House: : Known for fun live music on Thursdays where everyone dances & sings.
- Sylvis Add Oil Bar: A lively spot for cheap drinks and a young crowd, perfect for a pre-game or Uno rounds.
- MaHoRee city of music: A street lined with bars and great live music venues.
Days 8-9: Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand’s highest peak is a must-see & well-worth an overnight in the national park. Try out these tours or adventure on your own. For a full Doi Inthanon guide, check out my blog on it.
- Start at Wachirathan Waterfall — One of the most stunning and easily accessible waterfalls in the park. Arrive early to avoid crowds!!
- Explore the King & Queen Pagodas. These iconic temples sit atop the clouds with panoramic mountain views. Wander through the surrounding flower gardens and enjoy the serene ambiance — it is SO spiritual & lovely up here.
- Visit the Doi Inthanon summit (tallest in all of Thailand) Surrounded by cool, misty air and moss-covered trails. Take the short nature walk at the peak to see native Thai flowers and plants.
- Take on the Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail A 2-hour guided hike with a local through stunning waterfalls, lush rice fields, and dense jungle. End the hike at a Karen tribe village, where you can enjoy freshly brewed local coffee & buy local goods.
- Drive through the park’s mountain roads
- Explore windy, scenic roads with stunning views of rolling hills and lush greenery.
- Visit Mae Pan Waterfall A lesser-known gem of Doi Inthanon with towering cascades and tranquil surroundings. Hike about 30 minutes through rugged terrain to reach this stunning spot. My FAV waterfall in Thailand.
- Drive back to Chiang Mai
- Take your time on the 2 hour drive back, stopping at viewpoints or local cafes.
- Option: Stay Overnight in a nearby village
- Book a homestay. I stayed at Chadaporn Rentroom in Mae Cheam. (~$30/night). Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of rice fields and mountain views. Staying overnight allows you to experience Doi Inthanon at a slower pace and avoid rushing — 100% recommend this.
Days 10-11: Chiang Dao
Swap touristy Pai for the authenticity of Chiang Dao. Use my detailed guide on Chiang Dao to go further in depth to this hidden gem in the north of Thailand!
- Check in at Villa De View for stunning rice field views or Brown House for a budget stay.
- Unwind at Pronto Coffee & Hippocampus for a yummy coffee with scenic, STUNNING mountain backdrops.
- Rent a motorbike and ride through rice fields to Doi Lhung Chiang Dao Viewpoint (200 baht national park entrance fee).
- Soak in the Chiang Dao Hot Springs, a peaceful spot surrounded by forest where you’ll find locals soaking alongside you.
- Optional: Visit Wat Tham Chiang Dao , a unique & quiet cave temple.
- Book a half-day jungle trek through a local guide for authentic village and waterfall experiences (how-to on my Chiang Dao blog).
- The best food recs in Chiang Dao are Jin’s Garden, set in a fairy-lit garden, Chiang Dao Nest 1 or grab a burger and beer at Microkosmos Craft Beer Bar.
Pro Tip: Visit in February for the Shambhala Festival, a hippie, vibrant gathering of music and art lovers that was SO.MUCH.FUN.
Days 12-17: Krabi (Railay & Koh Lanta)
It’s island time. Welcome to Krabi, the most beautiful island province in all of Thailand. To start, fly into Krabi airport & take a ferry to one of these two places: Railay Beach or Koh Lanta.
Railay Beach
Why Visit: Stunning scenery with dramatic cliffs, aquamarine water, and white-sand beaches. A “pinch-me” destination that is probably the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen with my own two eyes.
- How to Get There:
- Fly into Krabi Airport.
- You have to take a minivan + longtail boat from Krabi airport –> Railay Beach (no cars—only accessible by boat!)
- What to Do:
- Phra Nang Beach: Visit in the early morning to enjoy calm, empty shores and incredible rock formations (around 8am I was the only one there!)
- West Railay Beach: Iconic, beautiful, and perfect for sunset strolls.
- Boat Trips: Hop on local longtail boat tours to explore the cliffs and nearby islands for cheap.
- Where to Stay:
- Railay Princess Resort & Spa 1000 baht/night for clean rooms, AC, and a rooftop pool — great deal.
- Good to Know:
- The food here is average, but the views more than make up for it!!
- Railay’s seclusion and breathtaking landscapes make it worth the slightly tricky access.
Koh Lanta
Why Visit: Chill, laid-back hippie vibes with hidden beaches, great food, and fewer crowds.
- How to Get There:
- Fly into Krabi Airport.
- You can take a van from Krabi airport –> Koh Lanta + a ferry transfer.
- What to Do:
- Nui Beach: A hidden gem—crystal-clear waters and a secluded paradise. Access by steep trail or boat.
- Mu Ko Lanta National Park: Drive a motorbike to this quiet, scenic park. Spot monkeys running on empty white-sand beaches!
- Motorbike Adventures: Ride the winding mountain roads and explore the island’s south.
- Where to Eat:
- Where to Stay:
- Serene Lanta Resort: 500 baht/night, clean rooms, great AC, and a short walk to the beach.
- Good to Know:
- Koh Lanta has a relaxed, hippie atmosphere with fewer tourists.
- Sunsets are divine, and the island is perfect for a laid-back getaway.
Days 18-20: Khao Sok National Park
One of Thailand’s most unique landscapes, and an adventure for the brave.
Why Visit: Ancient rainforest, towering limestone cliffs, and the magical Cheow Lan Lake make Khao Sok one of Thailand’s most unique and beautiful national parks.
- How to Get There:
- From Surat Thani, take a bus or private transport to Khao Sok.
- When to Visit:
- December to April is ideal for clear skies, calm waters, and lush greenery — I went in January!
What to Do
- Stay in Floating Bungalows:
- Sleep on the serene Cheow Lan Lake surrounded by emerald-green waters and nature’s sounds. It is unlike anything I’ve experienced before.
- I did this experience at Coco Hostel Khao Sok for only ~$75 for the WHOLE THING. What a deal (bungalow, meals, and lake tours)
- No phone signal—just peace, quiet, and stunning views.
- Kayaking and Swimming:
- Paddle through calm lake waters under towering limestone cliffs.
- Join a boat tour to explore hidden corners and spot wildlife along the lake’s edge.
- Coral Cave Adventure:
- Hike through the forest and wade through waist-deep water to discover a hidden cave filled with bats, spiders, and coral-like formations. Thrilling and scaryyyyy lol.
- Be prepared for a lack of safety briefings (our guide was hilariously laid-back, even playing games on his phone while we were freaking out over snakes & spiders).
Good to Know:
- This is an off-the-grid experience—perfect for travelers seeking a true connection with nature.
- Khao Sok feels like stepping into another world, and staying on the lake is an experience you’ll never forget.
Days 21-26: Koh Chang & Koh Kood
Wrap up your one month Thailand itinerary trip on these tranquil, lesser known islands in the Trat province:
Koh Chang
Why Visit: Calm, stunning, and affordable—Koh Chang is a hidden gem perfect for a relaxed island escape. I went in December which was perfect weather.
- How to Get There:
- Fly into Bangkok and take a 5-hour minivan + ferry to Koh Chang.
- Optional: Fly directly to Trat Airport for a faster route.
- What to Do:
- Explore Remote Beaches:
- Lonely Beach & Klong Koi Beach (south Koh Chang): Quiet, peaceful, and perfect for swimming.
- Ride a motorbike along scenic, twisty mountain roads to discover hidden spots.
- Explore Remote Beaches:
- Sunset Beach Bars: Find a remote sunset beach bar , this was my fav. enjoy fresh seafood, sip mojitos, and soak up the view.
- Boat Tours: Take a day trip cruising Trat province—snorkel and dive for around 700 baht (great deal if booked locally!)
- Beachside Massages: Relax on the sand with affordable beachside massages.
- Good to Know:
- The further south you go, the fewer tourists you’ll find.
- Perfect for travelers who love a quieter, less backpacker-heavy vibe.
Koh Kood (Trat Province)
Why Visit: Pristine, peaceful, and stunning—Koh Kood is a tiny island off the coast of Koh Chang. I’ve never been but heard incredible things. I’d recommend 2-3 days here to unplug and get fully on island time.
Wrapping up
Phew! That was a lot lol. I set aside a few days for rest / travel to get to each place. So, it will average around 30 or so days. I hope you enjoyed my one month Thailand itinerary … I put my heart and soul into this <3 Take my advice and use these ideas on your one month tour of Thailand. Have fun in the Land of Smiles!
xx Gracie
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