ULTIMATE 3 WEEK THAILAND ITINERARY
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
This post is about the the best 3 week Thailand itinerary
There’s something about Thailand that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. Maybe it’s the golden glow of the temples at sunrise, the buzz of a street food market at night, or the way the ocean looks under a sunset sky.
It’s a country of contrasts — ancient and modern, chaotic and serene — and exploring it over three weeks gives you just enough time to fall in love with this incredible country.
This itinerary is made for travellers who want to experience it all: the cultural richness of the north, the easy-going energy of the islands, and everything in between.
I’ve mapped out the best route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai to the southern beaches, including how to get around and where to stay without burning through your budget. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveller, this trip will leave you sun-kissed, soul-fed, and maybe even planning your next visit before you’ve left.
Let’s dive in.
Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!
🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo
NO TIME TO READ NOW? 📍PIN FOR LATER
This post is about the ultimate Thailand itinerary for solo female travellers
Thailand – Quick Tips
🇹🇭
Planning a trip to Thailand
🇹🇭
Planning a trip to Thailand requires some thought, but the effort is well worth it. The first step is deciding on your destinations. If you’re drawn to rich history and cultural landmarks, places like Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Sukhothai should be on your list.
If you dream of white sandy beaches and island adventures, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao are excellent choices. If you love adventure you might prefer the mountain landscapes of Chiang Mai, Pai, or Khao Sok National Park.
Budgeting is another crucial aspect of your trip. Thailand is known for being affordable, but costs vary depending on your travel style. As a backpacker you can expect to spend around $30-$50 per day by staying in hostels, eating street food, and using public transport.
What to pack for a trip to Thailand is an important consideration. Lightweight clothing is best for the heat, but modest attire is required for temple visits. A rain jacket is useful if you’re traveling during the monsoon season, and comfortable shoes are a must for exploring cities and hiking trails. Essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle will help keep you comfortable throughout your journey.
Getting to Thailand
Thailand is well-connected to the rest of the world and can be reached by air, land, or even by boat, depending on where you're coming from. Here’s a guide to the different ways you can get to this amazing country.
By Air : Flying is the most convenient and fastest way to reach Thailand. The country has several international airports, with Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok being the busiest. Other major airports include Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Phuket International Airport (HKT), and Krabi International Airport (KBV). Many international airlines operate direct flights to Thailand from Europe, the U.S., Australia, and other parts of Asia. Budget airlines like AirAsia and Thai Lion Air offer affordable domestic flights if you plan on hopping between cities and islands. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates.
By Land : If you're traveling from neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, or Myanmar, entering Thailand by land is possible. There are multiple border crossings, with some of the most popular being:
Malaysia: You can take a train or bus from Kuala Lumpur to Thailand, crossing the border at Padang Besar.
Cambodia: The most common land border crossing is at Aranyaprathet-Poipet, which connects Cambodia's Siem Reap with Thailand.
Laos: The Friendship Bridge between Vientiane (Laos) and Nong Khai (Thailand) is a popular route.
Myanmar: The Mae Sot-Myawaddy border crossing is a common entry point for travelers from Myanmar.
Buses and trains connect these borders to major Thai cities, but it's always good to check visa requirements in advance.
By Boat : If you're island-hopping or coming from Malaysia, you can enter Thailand by sea. Ferries and speedboats connect Langkawi (Malaysia) to Koh Lipe (Thailand), making it a scenic way to enter the country. Additionally, many cruises include Thailand as a stop on their Southeast Asia itinerary, particularly in Phuket and Koh Samui.
Getting around Thailand
Once you’ve arrived, getting around Thailand is relatively easy and affordable. The country has a well-developed transportation network, offering multiple ways to travel between cities, islands, and rural areas.
By Air : Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between regions. Airlines like Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air operate frequent flights connecting major cities and tourist destinations. If you're short on time and want to hop from Bangkok to Phuket or Chiang Mai in under two hours, flying is the best option.
By Train : Thailand’s railway system is a scenic and budget-friendly way to explore the country. The overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a popular choice, providing comfortable berths and a unique travel experience. There are also train routes connecting Bangkok with Ayutthaya, Hua Hin, and even Malaysia.
By Bus : Buses are one of the most affordable ways to travel across Thailand. There are government-run and private bus services that connect Bangkok with almost every part of the country. VIP and first-class buses offer air-conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard refreshments, making long journeys more comfortable.
By Minivan : Minivans are a great option for short-distance travel between cities and towns. They are faster than buses but can sometimes be cramped. They are commonly used to travel from Bangkok to nearby destinations like Pattaya, Ayutthaya, or Kanchanaburi.
By Tuk-Tuk and Songthaew : In cities and towns, tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared pickup trucks with benches) are popular for short trips. Tuk-tuks are fun but often require negotiation on fares, while songthaews operate like shared taxis with fixed routes.
By Taxi and Ride-Sharing : Taxis are available in most cities, and Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber equivalent) is a convenient way to book rides without haggling over prices. In Bangkok, always ensure the taxi driver uses the meter to avoid overpaying.
By Motorbike or Scooter : Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore islands and smaller towns at your own pace. However, always wear a helmet and have the correct driving license to avoid fines.
By Boat and Ferry : If you’re island-hopping, ferries and speedboats are the primary modes of transport. Routes connect destinations like Phuket to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, and Krabi to Railay Beach. Booking tickets in advance during peak seasons is recommended.
Best Season to Visit Thailand
Thailand has a tropical climate, meaning it experiences warm temperatures year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on the region and the type of experience you're looking for.
Cool & Dry Season (November - February)
This is generally considered the best time to visit Thailand, as the weather is cooler, drier, and more comfortable for outdoor activities. The beaches in the south are perfect during this time, and the northern regions like Chiang Mai have pleasant temperatures ideal for trekking and exploring temples. Since this is peak tourist season, expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Hot Season (March - May)
If you can handle the heat, visiting Thailand during these months can be rewarding. Bangkok and central Thailand can get extremely hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F). However, this is a great time for visiting islands and coastal regions where sea breezes help keep things cool. Songkran (Thai New Year), celebrated in April, is a massive water festival where locals and tourists splash each other with water in the streets—an unforgettable experience!
Rainy Season (June - October)
The monsoon season brings heavy rains, especially in September and October. While the showers can be intense, they are usually short-lived, and the landscape becomes lush and green. This is the best time for budget travelers, as accommodation and flights tend to be cheaper. Some islands, particularly in the Andaman Sea (like Phuket and Krabi), experience rough seas, but the Gulf of Thailand islands (like Koh Samui and Koh Tao) remain relatively dry.
Thailand 3 Week Itinerary
🇹🇭
Week 1: Northern Thailand — Culture, Temples, and Jungle Towns
Day 1–3: Bangkok
Start your journey in the vibrant capital, Bangkok. It’s chaotic in the best way. Spend your first day exploring the Grand Palace and Wat Pho — home to the massive reclining Buddha. The temples are jaw-droppingly ornate, with golden spires that shine under the sun. From there, hop on a long-tail boat and cruise through the city’s canals — you'll see a different, quieter side of Bangkok that most travellers miss.
Khao San Road is the classic backpacker hub where the nights are loud, the drinks are cheap, and the street food is unbeatable. Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, fried insects if you’re feeling adventurous — it’s all here.
READ MORE : Best things to do in Bangkok
Where to stay: BED Station Hostel Khaosan is right in the thick of things but still feels clean, stylish, and surprisingly quiet once you're inside. You get modern dorm beds with privacy curtains, friendly staff, and even a small pool — all for around ฿350/night ($10USD/£7.50GBP).
Next stop Chiang Mai. Getting there: When you're ready to head north, book a short flight to Chiang Mai. It’s usually around $30/£22 with low-cost airlines like AirAsia or Nok Air, and it takes about an hour.
Day 4–7: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai feels like a breath of fresh air after Bangkok. It’s laid-back, artsy, and surrounded by jungle-covered mountains. Spend a morning at Doi Suthep Temple — it’s a bit of a climb, but the view over the city is well worth it. Chiang Mai is also one of the best places to interact with elephants — but make sure to choose an ethical sanctuary that doesn’t offer rides. Elephant Nature Park is a good example.
Want to learn something new? Try a Thai cooking class and master the art of green curry and tom yum soup. Evenings in Chiang Mai are best spent wandering the Night Bazaar or checking out a live music bar in the Nimman neighborhood. If you're there on a Sunday, don’t miss the Sunday Walking Street Market — it’s packed with local crafts and irresistible snacks.
Where to stay: Green Tiger Vegetarian House offers a cozy boutique vibe with clean, minimal rooms and a great on-site vegetarian restaurant. It's peaceful, perfect for travelers who want to relax after a day of exploring, and private rooms start around ฿800/night ($23USD/£17GBP).
Next stop Pai. How to get there: Book a minivan to Pai — it’s a winding 3-hour drive through the mountains. Most hostels and travel agents in Chiang Mai can sort it out for about ฿200 ($6USD/£4.50). Take motion sickness tablets if you need them — there are 762 curves on this road!
Week 2: Jungles to Beaches — The Southern Switch-Up
Day 8–10: Pai
Pai is tiny, but once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. It’s a backpacker’s dream — quiet mornings, misty mountains, and lazy river days. Rent a scooter (you’ll need one to get around easily), and explore the surrounding countryside. Stop at natural hot springs, splash around at the waterfalls.
As the sun starts to dip, head to Pai Canyon. It’s one of the most surreal places to watch sunset — narrow ridges of red earth cut through the forest, and you can walk along them for epic views (if you’re not afraid of heights, I’m petrified of them and this was a real effort for me to do - but I did it and it was worth it!).
Where to stay: Family House Zen Boutique Resort is tucked away in a quiet spot near the Pai walking street. It’s peaceful, lush, and clean with a little pool and garden. A private room here goes for around ฿600/night ($17USD/£13GBP).
Up next Krabi. How to get there: Getting south takes a bit of effort. Take the minivan back to Chiang Mai, then hop on a flight to Krabi. Once in Krabi, a short shuttle or Grab ride will get you to your hotel in Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
Day 11–14: Krabi, Ao Nang & Railay
Welcome to the south — where limestone cliffs meet the sea and adventure is always nearby. Ao Nang makes a great base, and from there you can take a long-tail boat to Railay Beach. Railay is paradise — the cliffs tower above the sand and climbers cling to the rock faces like ants. Even if you’re not into climbing, the beach is stunning.
Go island-hopping for a day. The Phi Phi Islands are iconic (though crowded), or opt for the lesser-known Hong Islands or Chicken Island for better snorkelling and fewer crowds. Don’t forget to catch the sunset from the Ao Nang beach promenade with a fresh coconut or cold Chang beer in hand.
Where to stay: Hub of Joys Hostel in Koh Lanta is sociable but not a party hostel. The dorms are comfy, breakfast is free and filling, and it’s just a short walk to the beach. Dorm beds start from ฿300/night ($9USD/£7GBP).
Next stop Koh Lanta. How to get there : Take the ferry from Krabi to Koh Lanta, which takes about 2 hours and costs around ฿400 ($12USD/£9GBP). It's a scenic ride through clear waters and jungle-topped isles.
Week 3: Island Hopping & Beach Bumming
Day 15–18: Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is chill. Really chill. It’s the kind of place where you rent a scooter, pick a beach, and just go. There’s a string of quiet beaches along the west coast — each more beautiful than the last. Long Beach is a great spot to watch the sunset with a fruit shake or fresh seafood dinner. Take a snorkeling trip to the Four Islands, or visit the Lanta Animal Welfare center for a good cause (and maybe some dog cuddles).
Where to stay: Echo Beach Backpackers is located right on the beach with hammocks, cold beers, and music at sunset. It’s a fun and friendly spot to meet fellow travellers. Dorms go for about ฿250/night ($7USD/£5GBP).
Next stop Koh Phangan. Getting there: This one’s a longer haul, but it’s worth it. Take a ferry back to the mainland (to Surat Thani), then grab a minivan or bus to the pier and hop on another ferry to Koh Phangan. Book a combo ticket through 12Go Asia to keep it simple — the full trip costs around ฿1000 ($30USD/£23) and takes most of the day.
Day 19–21: Koh Phangan
Most people know Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party, and yes, if your trip lines up with the lunar cycle, it’s worth going once. But this island has so much more than glow paint and techno. Spend your days lounging at Secret Beach or snorkelling around Haad Yuan. The north of the island (Srithanu area) is all about yoga, smoothies, and barefoot cafés — it’s the perfect detox after a party night.
One of the most underrated experiences here is the hike to Bottle Beach. It’s a sweaty trek through the jungle but the reward is a postcard-perfect beach that feels like your own private paradise.
Where to stay: Phangan Arena Hostel is a backpacker hotspot with a pool, bar, and regular events. It’s just a short drive from Haad Rin (Full Moon Beach), and perfect if you want a social vibe. Dorms start at ฿300 ($9USD/£7).
Getting back to Bangkok: Take a ferry to Koh Samui, then fly back to Bangkok. Flights are short and easy — just over an hour, and often under $50USD/£37GBP if booked in advance.
Budget Breakdown for 3 Weeks
One of the best parts of traveling in Thailand is that it’s incredibly budget-friendly — whether you’re coming from the U.S., the U.K., or anywhere else. With a little planning, you can easily travel for three weeks on a modest budget without sacrificing memorable experiences.
Accommodation is likely to be your biggest cost, but still incredibly reasonable. If you’re staying in hostel dorms or simple private rooms, expect to spend between $10–$25 USD (£8–£20 GBP) per night. Over 21 days, that totals around $210–$525 USD (£170–£420 GBP).
Food and drinks are cheap, especially if you stick to local street food and casual spots. Budget about $10–$15 USD (£8–£12 GBP) per day, which comes to $210–$315 USD (£170–£250 GBP) for the trip.
Transportation, including domestic flights, ferries, buses, and minivans, usually totals around $150–$200 USD (£120–£160 GBP) for the full three weeks — especially if you book in advance and use budget airlines or travel packages.
Activities and tours — like ethical elephant sanctuaries, cooking classes, jungle treks, and island hopping — can be done for around $100–$200 USD (£80–£160 GBP) in total, depending on how many excursions you book.
Total Estimated Budget for 3 Weeks
$670–$1,240 USD
£535–£990 GBP
This budget gives you room for adventure, a few splurges, and plenty of authentic experiences — all without draining your bank account.
Final Thoughts
Thailand is the ultimate adventure, whether you're hiking through the mountains of the north or chasing sunsets in the south. This three-week itinerary gives you the best of it all — temples, elephants, jungle treks, night markets, island parties, and hidden beaches. And you don’t need to spend a fortune to do it.
So pack light, bring your curiosity, and let Thailand show you why it’s been a backpacker favourite for decades.
THAILAND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
🇹🇭
Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?
For many travellers, Thailand offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days if arriving by air and 15-30 days if arriving by land, depending on your nationality. Longer stays may require a visa in advance, so it's best to check with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country. For this 21 day itinerary you won’t need any special visa.
What is the currency in Thailand?
The currency used in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, though smaller shops and street vendors prefer cash.
Is Thailand safe for tourists?
Thailand is generally a safe destination, but like anywhere, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas. Scams, especially in tourist hotspots, are something to watch out for. Always agree on prices before taking tuk-tuks or taxis, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering deals that seem too good to be true. I recommend having a few safety products that make you feel safer.
What is the best way to stay connected in Thailand?
Most travelers opt for a prepaid SIM card with mobile data, which is affordable and widely available at airports and convenience stores. Major providers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove, all of which offer good coverage throughout the country. If you want to be organised with a sim before you get to Thailand you could get an eSim from Airalo.
What should I wear when visiting temples in Thailand?
When visiting temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Many temples provide sarongs or scarves for rent if you’re not dressed appropriately. Removing your shoes before entering temple buildings is also required.
Can I drink tap water in Thailand?
It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Thailand. Stick to bottled water or use a refillable bottle with a filter. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water.
How can I respect Thai culture?
Showing respect for Thai customs will enhance your experience. A wai (placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly) is a common way to greet and show gratitude. Avoid touching people's heads, and never point your feet at others or at sacred objects like Buddha statues.
More Information for your Trip to Thailand
The Must Visit Places in Thailand
9 Things to do your First Time in Bangkok
Read all my articles on Thailand in my Thailand Travel Guide
THAILAND ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to Thailand? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in the world.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to Thailand using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Thailand and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from GetYourGuide
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in Thailand on Booking.com.
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your transport once you’re in Thailand but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy private transfers online through Bookaway .
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in Thailand on Viator or Get Your Guide.
Did you know that …
When you purchase something through my links I earn a small fee. However, you still pay the same. Win-win!
