Planning your trip to Thailand for 2 weeks? Unfortunately there are too many cool places to visit in Thailand so you will have to make choices. Ideally I would suggest a 4 weeks itinerary around Thailand, but it is understandable that not everyone has the time and money to travel to Thailand for 4 weeks.
It is hard to come up with the ultimate 14 days itinerary for Thailand and therefore I created 4 different itineraries so you can choose the one you prefer most!
Over the last couple years I traveled to Thailand 17 times and yeah I have seen most of the country. Thailand is one of the best places to go on your first backpacking trip and that is how I ended up there the first time. I feel in love and kept on coming back. In total I wrote more than 50 Thailand travel blogs full of information about the country of Smiles.
How to get around Thailand
It is very easy to get around Thailand. There are numerous travel agencies, bus companies and tour companies everywhere in the popular tourist destinations. You can buy bus, boat, flight tickets basically anywhere, even in hotels and hostels. Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and they are very well catered towards the endless stream of incoming tourists.
To me traveling in Thailand changed a lot when I discovered the transportation search engine of 12Go Asia. No more hassle buying tickets from street vendors, asking for time tables, checking prices and paper tickets.
On the 12Go Asia website you find everything when it comes to transportation in Thailand.
For example the trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The search engine will give you all the available options: domestic flights, trains and busses, including prices, departure times and trip duration.
The best thing about it, you directly buy an online ticket and you don't have to print your ticket. Mobile ticket, your seat is reserved, it is easy, reliable, convenient and fast!
In total I set up 4 different Thailand itineraries for you. One that sticks around the North and mainly concentrates on Nature and Culture, one itinerary for island hopping in Thailand, one that has the best of both worlds and a 4th surprise itinerary that I would also highly suggest if you are a little more flexible when it comes down to international flights.
If you are not sure what to bring to Thailand then click on the link and see my 40 items packing list.
1. Northern Thailand Itinerary for 2 weeks
Culture & Nature with a slice of island life
Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Chiang Mai – Pai – Chiang Rai – Koh Samet – Koh Chang – Ko Kut – Bangkok
2 nights in Bangkok
Bangkok is one of world's most cosmopolitan places and no better way to start your trip to Thailand with 2 days in Bangkok. Take a bike tour around Bangkok and I am sure you embrace the chaos of this enormous city. The famous train market is 45 minutes away from the city but really worth going. Don't just stick to the top 10 things to do in Bangkok, have a look at my list of 13 unusual things to do in Bangkok as well.
Don't forget to sip cocktails in of the famous rooftop bars in Bangkok or check out the pool parties or a food tour in Chinatown. There are endless amazing things to do in Bangkok, trust me 2 days is actually not enough at all.
Where to stay in Bangkok
- Luxury hotels: W Bangkok, Banyan Tree, Sofitel SO, Westin Grand Sukhumvit.
- Boutique Hotels: Siam @ Siam Hotel, Dream Hotel Bangkok, Ma Du Zi Hotel.
- Mid Range hotels: Poshtel, Modena by Fraser Bangkok, Baiyoke Sky Tower, Arte Hotel.
- Hostels: The Yard Hostel, Good Day Hostel, Smile Society, Bed Station, Lub D Bangkok.
From Bangkok to Ayutthaya
Mini vans for $3 leave from Bangkok to Ayutthaya almost every hour. Click here to reserve your seat with 12Go Asia or ask your hotel where to find the nearest mini van station for shuttles from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
1 night in Ayutthaya
This former capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom is a must see if you are into old temple complexes and lies only 2 hours North from Bangkok. The remains of the old kingdom are now declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and wandering around these old temples you will understand why. Don't miss the giant reclining Buddha, the Buddha head in the tree and the Wat Phra Mahathat complex.
Want to stay connected while traveling in Thailand? Buy a prepaid data sim card for Thailand! Click on the link to which one is best for tourists. I did the research for you.
Trains from Ayutthayu to Chiang Mai leave 5 times a day, the trip takes around 8 - 12 hours and prices range between $25 and $50. Book your seat in advanced to get the cheapest price. You can find all the prices and the timetables on 12Go Asia.
2 nights in Chiang Mai
Continue North to Chiang Mai by train or bus and enter a vibrant city in a lush green region up North in Thailand. Chiang Mai truly is a travelers hub and no wonder why so many travelers strand here. Cheap massages, good food, laid-back city life, cooking classes and bustling night markets is what make Chaing Mai special.
There are many cool day trips from Chiang Mai as well: see Buddhist temples, elephant sanctuaries, jungle treks or visit hill tribes. Click here for a list of the 12 best things to do in Chiang Mai.
Cheap hotels in Thailand
Did you know that Agoda is the biggest and most used hotel booking platform in Asia? They have the best deals for you and they also compare prices of other hotel booking platforms such as Booking. Get yourself a great hotel in Thailand.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Luxury: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Shangri La, Veranda High Resort MGallery, The Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Four Seasons Chiang Mai.
- Mid-range: Thai - Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel, Rimping Village Hotel, Hyde Park Chiang Mai, Lamduan Boutique Homestay.
- Budget: Green Sleep, Hostel By Bed, Bed Addict Hostel.
1 night in Pai
If you are adventurous hop on a motorbike and explore the region yourself. Driving a scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai or the other way around is an amazing trip to take while 2 weeks in Thailand. Pai itself is even more off the beaten track with its beautiful ricefields and lovely local lifestyle. Be careful not to get scammed when renting a motorbike in Thailand.
Where to stay in Pai
There is not much choice if you want to stay in luxury accommodation in Pai, as there are no 5 star hotels, but the most exclusive options are very affordable. If you want to splurge a little on your trip Pai is the place to do so.
- Luxury: Pai Island Resort, Reverie Siam Resort.
- Mid-range: Pai Cherkaew, Family House Zen Boutique Resort.
- Budget: Baankonpai, Baan Aomsin Resort, Carrot On The Moon Hostel.
2 nights in Chiang Rai
If you want to see the most amazing temples in Thailand then you cannot skip Chiang Rai. The White Temple is most probably the most fascinating temple you will ever see and is located close to Chiang Rai, Furthermore you should explore the Golden Triangle with its amazing landscapes, viewpoints, waterfalls and indigenous tribes.
Where to stay in Chiang Rai
- Luxury: Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa, Le Meridien.
- Mid-range: Le Patta Chiang Rai, Eat Sleep Cafe And Bed.
- Budget: Norn Nung Len Hostel, Chiangrai Central.
2 nights Koh Chang
After more than a week it is time to go a little more South. Fly through Bangkok to Trat airport on the border with Cambodia. This is the fastest way to get to off the beaten path islands in Thailand Koh Chang and Koh Kood. Koh Chang is a travers favorite and a chilled hippie island. Sip cocktails on the beach, peddle around in a kayak and see the waterfalls in the National Park.
Where to stay in Koh Chang
- Luxury: Gajapuri Resort, The Chill Resort.
- Mid-range: El Greco Guesthouse, Ramayana Resort.
- Budget: Sleepy Owl Hostel, Koh Chang Gala.
2 nights Koh Kood
Ko Kut is just a short boat ride away from Koh Chang and even more laid-back. This is the perfect island to unwind and get your beach days. Strolling around on the beach is the best thing to do on this island apart from getting drunk and watch stars.
Where to stay in Koh Kood
With Soneva Kiri being one of the most prestigious hotels in Thailand you are at the right place if you want to spoil yourself, but expect Western prices for this property. Unfortunately there is not much choice in the budget range.
- Luxury: Soneva Kiri, High Season Pool Villas.
- Mid-range: Ao Salat View, Suan Mapro Resort.
- Budget: Kama Siri
2 nights Koh Samet
For your last two days on your Thailand itinerary for 14 days go to the lesser-visited Koh Samet on your way back to Bangkok. There are actually day trips here from the capital, but to really enjoy the island stay here overnight. Try to go snorkeling and feel like swimming in an aquarium and jump on a scooter to find completely deserted beaches. The island is small and getting lost is impossible. Enjoy the delicious seafood on the beach at night.
Where to stay in Koh Samet
- Luxury: Paradee Resort
- Mid-range: Baan Khun Yaai Mai Khun Ta
- Budget: Runa Runa Hostel
Budget for 2 weeks in Northern Thailand route
This itinerary for two weeks in Thailand is mainly focused on nature and culture with some relaxing days at the beach in the end. Because you stick around in the North of Thailand transportation costs are limited and therefore this Thailand backpacking route can easily be done on a budget of like $40 USD per day. Long distance busses to Chiang Mai cost only $15, but to save time I would look into cheap domestic flights in Thailand as well.
Related: Avoid high roaming costs, check my guide for buying a prepaid sim card in Thailand in 2023 or my complete guide for the best e-sim cards for traveling in Thailand in 2023.
2. Best route for 14 days island hopping in Thailand
Bangkok – Phuket – Koh Yao Yai/Noi – Koh Phi Phi - Koh Lanta – Ao Nang – Koh Samui – Koh Tao – Koh Phangan
There are a ton of amazing islands to visit in Thailand and to put them all in a 2 week itinerary is impossible. I picked the best places for you and created the ultimate island hopping itinerary in Thailand for 2 weeks.
1 night in Bangkok
You are in Thailand to feel the summervibe and get the islandlife feeling. Therefore don't waste time in Bangkok. Although an amazing city with awesome things to do you will only spend 1 day in Bangkok. Go for a bike tour with Ko van Kessel and see the Chinatown, the rural areas, the canals, some temples and have a traditional Thai lunch. After the tour you watch the sunset in a rooftop bar and party in Khao San Road before you take a taxi to the airport to fly to Phuket.
Where to stay in Bangkok
- Luxury hotels: W Bangkok, Banyan Tree, Sofitel SO, Westin Grand Sukhumvit.
- Boutique Hotels: Siam @ Siam Hotel, Dream Hotel Bangkok, Ma Du Zi Hotel.
- Mid Range hotels: Poshtel, Modena by Fraser Bangkok, Baiyoke Sky Tower, Arte Hotel.
- Hostels: The Yard Hostel, Good Day Hostel, Smile Society, Bed Station, Lub D Bangkok.
From Bangkok to Phuket
I just used the below search engine for a random date two months in the future and found multiple flights from Bangkok to Phuket for as less as $25. Try your luck below. It also gives you options for night busses.
The best thing is that via 12Go Asia you can directly pick your seat and book your ticket.
2 nights in Phuket
Phuket is a bustling and crowded peninsula but also a great hub for day tours to the outer islands, which are in fact way more beautiful than Phuket itself. Phuket is nice to roam around on a scooter but it is pretty sized. Therefore you better off island hopping from Phuket. Check out the amazing day trips to Coral Island or the Ratcha Islands. Another option is the nearby Koh Yao Yai or James Bond Island. At night party hard on Bangla Road in Patong.
Where to stay in Phuket
- Luxury: Sri Panwa Phuket, Samsara Phuket, Como Point Yamu, The Ratcha Phuket.
- Mid-range: Lub D Patong.
- Budget: Lupta Hostel Patong, Aspery Hotel
2 nights in Koh Phi Phi
Unmistakably one of the most popular islands in Thaland for partying. Some say that a Thailand trip won't be complete without seeing Koh Phi Phi. But to temper your expectations, this place is crowded! Still stunning, but may be not as amazing as on the pictures. The parties on the beach though are fabulous. There are many beach bars to choose from and I am sure you will also have a good time in the small streets on the island. There are so many travelers on Phi Phi that meeting people is easy.
Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi
- Luxury: Zeavola Hotel, Holiday Inn Resort.
- Mid-range: Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort, Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort.
- Budget: Kitty Guesthouse.
How to get from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta
Check all the available routes in the search engines below.
These are two of the search results:
- Tigerline Travel: leaving Koh Phi Phi 11.15, arriving 11.45 in Koh Lanta - $27 USD
- Satun Pakbara Speed Boat: leaving Koh Phi Phi 13.30, arriving 14.00 in Koh Lanta - $20 USD
2 nights in Koh Lanta
Unwind a little bit from a hectic Thailand vacation so far after the bustling Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. Jump on a scooter and find you own spot on one of the long beaches in Koh Lanta. Have a chilled ice cold beer in a bean bag and watch the sun go down in one of the relaxing reggae bars on the West side of the island.
Where to stay in Koh Lanta
- Luxury: Layana Resort, Pimalai.
- Mid-range: Crown Lanta.
- Buget: Journey Hostel.
2 nights in Ao Nang
You won't find Ao Nang in many 2 weeks Thailand itineraries but I think it definitely deserves a spot. Some of the amazing Krabi beaches are only a 10-minute boat ride away. If you decide to visit Railay Beach you can even consider staying here overnight. A day trip to Hong Island is definitely worth it when staying in Ao Nang and the sunrise hike to the viewpoint in Tab Kak Hang Nak National Park is one of the best things to do in Thailand.
Below you see the viewpoint at Tab Kak Hang Nak, pretty cool right? :-)
What you see below is the secluded beach of Tonsai. You can get here by a 10 minute boat ride from Ao Nang beach. Click here for more info about visiting Tonsai Beach.
Where to stay in Ao Nang/Railey Beach
- Luxury: Rayavadee, Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort
- Mid-range: Avatar Railay Resort, Alisea Boutique Hotel
- Budget: Balcony Party Hostel, Pop-In Hostel.
How to get from Ao Nang to Koh Tao
There are many options available but you will have to buy a bus/boat combination ticket. You can buy them everywhere on the streets but if you search in the below engine 12Go Asia it will give you all the times, prices, different companies and trip duration.
I tried it for you and here are some of the results:
- Ao Nang - Koh Tao, approximately 8h bus and boat for $24 USD, leaving multiple times a day.
2 nights in Koh Tao
Having spent almost 5 months on Koh Tao over the last years I am biased to name this the best island to visit in Thailand. But there are so many cool things to do in Koh Tao that I am sure you will have an amazing time.
Whether you are here to explore deserted bays on a scooter, climb to viewpoints, go snorkeling or diving or party on the beach with fellow travelers, Koh Tao is a place where everything is clustered on a small island and you can get away with not renting a scooter and still see the whole island. This is your ultimate islandlife island: flipflops, board shorts, and
Where to stay in Koh Tao? Click on the link and read my complete guide for Koh Tao hotels.
Boats from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
Songserm: leaving Koh Tao 10:00, 2h trip = $10.
Lompraya: leaving Koh Tao 6:30, 9:30 and 15:00, 1h 10min trip = $15.
Seatran: leaving Koh Tao 6:30, 9:30 and 15:00, 1h 30min trip = $136:30, 9:30 and 15:00, 1h 30min trip = $13.
2 nights in Koh Phangan
As I am more a fan of untouched islands I suggest 2 nights in Koh Phangan and only 1 night in Samui. I compared Koh Samui with Koh Tao as they are so different. Koh Phangan is green, quiet and more often beaten path. Exploring the Northern parts with its deserted beaches and awesome coastal walks is something that can't be missed. Another thing that surely needs to be on your agenda is the famous Full Moon party or one of the many other parties: Half Moon, Black Moon and Jungle Party. Find out which one is my favorite in the link.
Where to stay in Koh Phangan?
- Luxury: Santhiya Koh Phangan
- Mid-range: Cocohut Village Beach Resort
- Budget: Bottle Beach 1 Resort
1 night in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is your end station on your 14 days Thailand itinerary. Koh Samui international airport will fly you anywhere in the world through Bangkok. But first enjoy a laid-back stroll around Fisherman's Village and have a sunset cocktail at Air Bar to end your Thailand vacation in style.
Splurging on your last night of this Thailand itinerary is easy in Koh Samui. There are endless 5 star hotels, some even pretty affordable. However if that is out of budget then check this guide for tips visiting Koh Samui on a budget.
Where to stay in Koh Samui
- Luxury: W Samui, Intercontinental, Vikasa Yoga Retreat, Four Seasons
- For mid-range and budget there are so many good places available. Take a look at the hotels advised by TripAdvisors for Koh Samui.
After following this 14 days Thailand itinerary I am sure you need to detox for a couple weeks. The islands are incredibly seductive to go back to. They are always calling trust me! I have now been 17 times on a Thailand trip and I still can't get enough of it. There are many things I miss about Thailand and I enumerated them in this list.
Budget for 2 weeks island hopping in Thailand
Expect to spend at least about a $50 - $70 per day for this Thailand itinerary as there is a lot of travel involved and although the beach parties are free to go to, 100 beers at the end of the week are equal to $200 as well. But that means you had a great time! Right? Want to know more prices in Thailand then click on the link and check out detailed cost of living in Thailand. Transportation is not expensive but as you are traveling every second day in this itinerary expect to pay around about $25 average per trip. With boat trips being cheaper, flight may be a little more expensive. Try fiding cheap flights with the award winning flight search engine 12 Go Asia.
3. Best of Thailand in 2 weeks – Island Hopping, Culture & Nature
Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Pai – Phuket – Phi Phi – Koh Phangan – Koh Tao
Thailand is not only about island hopping there is way more than that in the North. Some people say that there is no real Thai culture left on the islands and that is somehow true. For a cultural experience you have to travel around Thailand in the Northern regions. Go trekking, see temples and meet the most friendly locals before you fly to the islands for some summer vibes and this all fits in a Thailand itinerary for 14 days.
Let me tell you how to use a Thai domestic flight search engine. In this link I let you find the cheapest flights from Chiang Mai to Phuket. I will also tell you a secret Thailand travel tip: it is 50% cheaper to fly from South to North instead of North to South! Not joking, click on the link for my blog post about domestic flights in Thailand.
2 nights in Bangkok
There are a ton of things to do in Bangkok when you are there for the first time. I guess you are still a bit jet legged so taking a stroll through the city and its markets is a great way to start your Thailand vacation. See the temples at Grand Palace, the big Buddha Wat Pho and the best temple in Bangkok Wat Saket. Don't miss the sunset in sky bars, Chinatown and the Patpong Night Market.
Also have a look at my list of 13 unusual things to do in Bangkok.
Where to stay in Bangkok
- Luxury hotels: W Bangkok, Banyan Tree, Sofitel SO, Westin Grand Sukhumvit.
- Boutique Hotels: Siam @ Siam Hotel, Dream Hotel Bangkok, Ma Du Zi Hotel.
- Mid Range hotels: Poshtel, Modena by Fraser Bangkok, Baiyoke Sky Tower, Arte Hotel.
- Hostels: The Yard Hostel, Good Day Hostel, Smile Society, Bed Station, Lub D Bangkok.
2 nights in Chiang Mai
Get your cultural craving here up North were to some the real Thailand still exists. There are jungle tours, trekking opportunities and simply living a laid back life in the green hills surrounding Chiang Mai. There are elephant sanctuary parks, but please do not ride an elephant and choose wisely where you go.
No need to say you may think, but there are still travelers riding elephants and taking photos with tigers. Please read my article about how safe it is to travel to Thailand and find a list of things to avoid when visiting Thailand.
Related: 12 Best things to do in Chiang Mai!
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Luxury: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Shangri La, Veranda High Resort MGallery, The Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Four Seasons Chiang Mai.
- Mid-range: Thai - Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel, Rimping Village Hotel, Hyde Park Chiang Mai, Lamduan Boutique Homestay.
- Budget: Green Sleep, Hostel By Bed, Bed Addict Hostel.
2 nights in Pai
Go off the beaten path in Thailand and head to Pai, close to the Myanmar border. Enjoy the tranquility, the rice fields and the good food. Also make sure you cross the Memorial Bridge, visit the Pai Canyon and hike up to the Yun Lai Viewpoint. If you are brave enough to drive a motorbike in Thailand then rent one and drive yourself back to Chiang Mai. You wont be disappointed making this amazing trip and surely it will be one of the highlights of your 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary.
Where to stay in Pai
Luxury accommodation in Pai is not like in the rest of Thailand, the options are very limited. But they are very affordable and I am sure you can afford the best places to stay in Pai. The question is do you want to spend that much money on accommodation. If you have read my travel on a budget blog you know that traveling is not the same as a holiday.
- Luxury: Pai Island Resort, Reverie Siam Resort.
- Mid-range: Pai Cherkaew, Family House Zen Boutique Resort.
- Budget: Baankonpai, Baan Aomsin Resort, Carrot On The Moon Hostel.
2 nights in Phuket
Fly from Chiang Mai directly to Phuket and start your Thailand island hopping adventure here. Roam around Phuket on a scooter and get to see the big white Buddha statue . Black Rock Viewpoint is also cool to drive up to. Bangla Road in Patong is an crazy place to go out or for a more chilled vibe try to get a spot at Baba Nest Phuket. The best thing to do in Phuket is to explore the surrounding islands on daytrips: Coral Island is a cool photo spot for example.
Where to stay in Phuket
- Luxury: Sri Panwa Phuket, Samsara Phuket, Como Point Yamu, The Ratcha Phuket.
- Mid-range: Lub D Patong.
- Budget: Lupta Hostel Patong, Aspery Hotel
2 nights in Koh Phi Phi
If you are reading Thailand travel blogs you will always see Koh Phi Phi popping up so who am I to not send you there. But be prepared to party and don't expect deserted beaches. Koh Phi Phi is great for meeting people, not for those who are looking for peaceful islandlife vibes. Those people should change Koh Phi Phi for Koh Yao Yai on their Thailand Itinerary. 14 days is over before you know so choose wisely!
Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi/Koh Yao Yai
Accommodation suggestions Koh Phi Phi: Zeavola Hotel, Holiday Inn Resort (luxury), Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort, Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort (mid range), Kitty Guesthouse (budget). For Koh Yao Yai check out my review of this mid-range accommodation: Glow Elixir.
2 nights in Koh Phangan
Yes I skipped Koh Samui as I think it is comparable to Phuket and Koh Phangan is completely different from the rest of the islands. Get lost into the green center of Phangan on a scooter and find hidden yoga gems. Head to the North to hike along the coast and find deserted bays. Of course this is the best island in Thailand to party with the world famous Full Moon party being held every month on the beach in Haad Rin. On top of that there are more organized parties like the Half Moon Festival, Black Moon and the Jungle Party. Koh Phangan is a famous stop on most Thailand backpacking routes.
Where to stay in Koh Phangan
- Luxury: Santhiya Koh Phangan
- Mid-range: Cocohut Village Beach Resort
- Budget: Bottle Beach 1 Resort
2 nights in Koh Tao
When traveling around Thailand for 2 weeks make sure you always go to Koh Tao. Although after the recent Koh Tao Murders it has a bad name, this still is one of my fave islands in Thailand. There is adventure around every corner, in the ocean as well as on land. What to do in Koh Tao? Snorkeling, island hopping, hiking, sunset viewpoints, beach parties, deserted bays and of course diving. Go from Koh Tao to Bangkok by boat/bus combination or fly through Koh Samui, Chumpon or Surat Thani. Check how to find cheap domestic flights in Thailand.
Where to stay in Koh Tao?
I wrote a detailed article about the best area to stay in Koh Tao.
This 2 weeks itinerary for Thailand can already be done for around $40 USD per day if you live local. Renting a scooter in Thailand cost about $4 USD a day, sleeping in guesthouses can be found for less than $10 USD a day. The flights and the boat rides will be the most expensive. But in total you should be able to keep the Thailand trip costs for this itinerary under $600 USD.
4. 2 weeks Island Hopping from Malaysia to Thailand
Kuala Lumpur – Langkawai – Koh Lipe – Koh Lanta – Koh Phi Phi – Phuket - Bangkok
I know this article is called 2 weeks in Thailand, but I also want to suggest another great itinerary, which starts or ends in Malaysia. The best beaches in Thailand are in the Southern islands close to the Malaysian border and to get there is a little off the beaten track in Thailand. They are actually best reached from Malaysia and therefore I included this itinerary for 2 weeks in Thailand into this article as an extra option.
2 nights in Kuala Lumpur
Not everyone is raving about this city but spending 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur is not a punishment at all. Start your days roaming around the old city of KL and have some snacks in the streets of Chinatown. Just before sunset head to Heli Lounge Bar and experience the sunset from a helipad on top of a skyscraper with views over the KL Tower and the world famous Petronas Towers. End your day in the shopping mall underneath the towers at KLCC, stroll through the park around and have a drink at the top of the Traders Hotel before you go out in the bustling Changkat or Bukit Bintang. Trust me you won't regret starting your Thailand trip in Malaysia.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
- Luxury: Traders Hotel, Ritz-Carlton, Shangri La.
- Mid-range: KL Journal
- Budget: Backhome Hostel
2 nights in Langkawi - Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi
You are on an island and yes the beaches are awesome here but make sure you also take the cable car up the mountain. From here you will have amazing views over the island, but the coolest thing to do is to walk across the Langkawi Sky Bridge. Langkawi is an island full of adventure with zip lining, the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and the many night markets.
Where to stay in Langkawi
- Luxury: Four Seasons Langkawi, The St. Regis Langkawi, The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi.
- Mid-range: CampValley Fitness Getaway, Resorts World Langkawi.
- Budget: Boxpackers Langkawi, Two Peace House.
2 nights in Koh Lipe – start of your Thailand vacation
From Langkawai take the 1,5h boat trip to cross the border into Thailand. The islands in the Koh Lipe archipelago are where you will start traveling around Thailand and you will straight away stumble upon the best beaches in Thailand. Needless to say that this little paradise is perfect to go island hopping. Take one of the many tours to see the surrounding islands, make sure you go diving or snorkeling and simply enjoy one of the most remote islands in Thailand. Trust me at the end of your two weeks in Thailand you will still remember the beach of Koh Lipe!
Where to stay in Koh Lipe
- Luxury: Bundhaya Villas, Idyllic Concept Resort.
- Mid-range: Aplus Deluxe Hotel, Koh Lipe Homestay.
- Budget: A Plus Lipe Hotel, Lipe Bloom Cafe Hostel.
2 nights in Koh Lanta – the second Thai island on your Thailand itinerary
Koh Lanta is the best island to drive a scooter in Thailand. Road are in a good condition and the island is not too busy. On the west side there are endless beaches to explore and some simple Thai style beach clubs with perfect island vibes. Although Koh Lanta is included in many island hopping Thailand itineraries it is not that overcrowded as some other islands.
Where to stay in Koh Lanta
- Luxury: Layana Resort, Pimalai.
- Mid-range: Crown Lanta.
- Buget: Journey Hostel.
2 nights Koh Phi Phi
In almost every Thailand itinerary for 14 days you will find Koh Phi Phi. To some it is overrun by tourists to some it is the best island in Thailand to party. Famous for ‘The Beach' with Leonardo di Caprio and the Tsunami in 2002, Koh Phi Phi got completely back on its feed and partying on the beach at night is probably the number one thing to do in Koh Phi Phi. Try to go to the famous beach in the (very) early morning or be disappointed! Hike to the viewpoint for awesome views.
Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi
Accommodation suggestions Koh Phi Phi: Zeavola Hotel, Holiday Inn Resort (luxury), Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort, Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort (mid range), Kitty Guesthouse (budget).
2 nights in Phuket
When you have read my island hopping Thailand tips then you know Phuket is not my favorite destination in the land of smile. On the other hand it is a great stop on your Thailand backpacking route as Phuket is a great hub. Not only because of its international airport but also because the surrounding islands make great day trips from Phuket. Go island hopping from Phuket and visit Koh Yao Yai and James Bond Island or drive a scooter around the peninsula and find deserted bays. Watch the sunset at Baba Nest Phuket and party hard in Patong.
Find overnight busses from Phuket to Bangkok. Type in your preferred route and let the 12Go Asia search engine get you the best route and price for you.
Overnight bus from Phuket to Bangkok: $19 - 14 hours. But flights are just a couple dollars more expensive! Also find flights through the above search engine 12Go Asia, super easy, reliable and simple.
Where to stay in Phuket
- Luxury: Sri Panwa Phuket, Samsara Phuket, Como Point Yamu, The Ratcha Phuket.
- Mid-range: Lub D Patong.
- Budget: Lupta Hostel Patong, Aspery Hotel
2 nights in Bangkok
Take one of the many daily direct flights from Phuket to Bangkok and enjoy your last two days of your 2 weeks in Thailand in the crazy capital. Take a nostalgic tuktuk ride to the Grand Palace, a boat ride over the river and a drink in one of the many rooftop bars.
Don't miss to roam around Khao San Road, the worlds most famous backpack street. See the huge golden Buddha Wat Pho, go on a bike tour around Bangkok. Read all the fun things to do in Bangkok in the link including the train market, a floating market and wake boarding.
Where to stay in Bangkok
- Luxury hotels: W Bangkok, Banyan Tree, Sofitel SO, Westin Grand Sukhumvit.
- Boutique Hotels: Siam @ Siam Hotel, Dream Hotel Bangkok, Ma Du Zi Hotel.
- Mid Range hotels: Poshtel, Modena by Fraser Bangkok, Baiyoke Sky Tower, Arte Hotel.
- Hostels: The Yard Hostel, Good Day Hostel, Smile Society, Bed Station, Lub D Bangkok.
How much does it cost to travel to Thailand
If you are planning a trip to Thailand I understand you want to know how much you need to budget. In all my Thailand travel blogs I constantly tell people that you can make it as expensive as you want. If you want a 2 weeks itinerary for Thailand on a budget I can give you the exact same route then if you are a luxury traveler. This country is a place where you can find something for everyone.
A Thailand vacation can be really cheap if you eat local, sleep in guesthouses or hostels and travel local. Your 2 weeks in Thailand budget could be as less as $30 a day including all transportation. You can find cheap flights if you book in advance.
Trains in Thailand are cheap and so are busses, which I think are more comfortable. There is no need to sign up for island hopping Thailand tours as you can explore most of the islands by yourself. Some tours you need to book, but ask around and you will find a place with a decent price. For a complete guide how much money you need for traveling in Thailand? Click on the link.
Rent a scooter in Thailand or not?
In almost all places to go in Thailand I recommend you to rent a motorbike and I already hear you asking is that safe? Yes renting a motorbike in Thailand is just as safe as back home. If you don't know how to drive a scooter then simply don't rent one! As long as you drive responsible you will be fine. Wear a helmet, be insured and have an international drivers license, don't drink and drive and stick to the basic rules in traffic. Traffic in Thailand may seem chaotic, but once you are part if it you will feel the vibe. Traffic is way more relaxed in Thailand then you think and Thai people will help you find your place on the street. Don't worry go rent a motorbike in Thailand.
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Are you aware of the visa situation, the vaccinations, electricity plugs, how to book transportation in Thailand, if you can eat the street food or what is going on with taking selfies with tigers, the best e-sim cards for Thailand? Read all my Thailand travel tips in this complete guide!
If you have any questions please leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you with all your Thailand itinerary questions and travel tips for this amazing country.
Enjoy your trip to Thailand!