A visit to Phuket is a must on your 1 Month Thailand Itinerary
So you’ve decided to go on holiday to Thailand and you have one month to spend there. Thailand is one of the more popular places to visit in Asia. This country has so much to offer, from beautiful temples, jungles and waterfalls, pristine beaches, incredible food and the friendliest people. If you are thinking of visiting Thailand and it will be your first trip to Thailand, use this 4 week itinerary for Thailand to plan your trip and see all the highlights Thailand has to offer.
Thailand is a versatile country that has something for everyone. Zipline through the jungle in North Thailand or dive into the crystal clear water in the Gulf of Thailand. Get a Thai Massage after a long day of exploring temples or sit by the pool bar and enjoy the lights of Bangkok. But most of all, immerse yourself in Thailand on this Thailand for a month adventure, particular if it is your first ever visit to Thailand.
My guide to Thailand is divided into two sections. The first being the 1 month Thailand itinerary and the second, helping you prepare for you trip to Thailand. So, let’s begin!
Thailand 1 Month Itinerary at a Glance
This 1 month Thailand itinerary spends 2 weeks on mainland Thailand visiting the major cities of interest. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. Then the second 2 weeks is spent island hopping off Southern Thailand. Now Thailand has many wonderful islands to visit, some more well-known than others. Check out the map I have done showing you some of the islands and the city highlights of this Thailand month long itinerary.
To get to know Thailand during this month long itinerary I suggest spending your time as follows.
- Bangkok – 7 days – includes 4 days in Bangkok plus one day trips to Pattaya, Ayutthaya and Kanchanabri. An alternative to 7 days in Bangkok could be to spend 3 days in Bangkok, then travel to Ayutthaya for 2 days and then onto Kanchanabri for 2 days before heading to Chang Mai. I chose the first option as I had a base but if you are a budget backpacker you may want to keep on the move.
- Chiang Mai and Chang Rai – 3-5 days
- 1 day travelling to either Trat or Krabi in Southern Thailand to begin island hopping. These two cities are great step off points in Thailand for the islands.
- 2 weeks of Island hopping
1 Month Thailand Itinerary
Bangkok, 7 Days
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and there is a lot to see and do so spending time in Bangkok should be included in any trip to Thailand.
Where to Stay in Bangkok – Bangkok Accommodation Options
Most tourists stay near Khao San Road that is close to all the sights, restaurants and nightlife. If you are near the MRT or BTS you’ll be able to go anywhere without much hassle. There are other quieter and more authentic areas to stay at but for your first trip to Bangkok, I would suggest staying near Khao San Road. Other areas to consider are Riverside, Sukhumvit and / or Chinatown. I would suggest booking accommodation that has a rooftop pool and bar if possible. Believe me, after a hard day of sightseeing in the Thailand heat, you will be pleased to have a dip in the pool and a cool drink!
For a budget hostel check out pricing and availability for Here Hostel Bangkok.
Seeking a mid-range hotel with a rooftop pool check out pricing and availability for Hotel Royal Bangkok@Chinatown– this is where I stayed and I loved it.
For a first-class hotel with a rooftop pool check out pricing and availability for Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok.
If travelling to Thailand with your family and wanting a kid friendly hotel in Bangkok there are also plenty of options.
For more Bangkok accommodation options, and accommodation in other areas of Thailand, visit Booking.com.
Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram
Bangkok Shopping
Reclining Buddha
Decorated Spires inside The Grand Palace
Day 1 Bangkok – Explore Royal Bangkok and Temples
Today get to know Bangkok and its temples known as wats. If your time is limited go on a tour of this area however, you can explore by using local transport. Catch a sky train to Saphan Taksin BTS station and get on a ferry from Central Pier. It’ll take you along the Chao Phraya River towards the ancient royal district of Bangkok. As soon as you get off the ferry, you can start your walking tour between Bangkok’s famous historical sites and temples.
The Grand Palace with more than 100 ancient buildings is a sight to behold. It was built over 200 years ago and is truly spectacular. The opulence of this palace is breathtaking. It is mostly used for state occasions now rather than a royal residence. Within It grounds you will find the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which is worshipped by Buddhists all over the world as it is the most sacred temple in Thailand. The Emerald Budha has been in the royal chapel since the 18th century. It is a symbol of wealth and prosperity and watches over Thailand. It is quite interesting to think this 26 inches tall Buddha statue sitting in a yoga position is carved from a single jade stone – wow!
TIPS: The Grand Palace is an extremely popular destination for visitors when in Bangkok and becomes crowded early. Also, ensure you dress respectfully as their is a dress code and it is enforced. So cover your shoulders and knees and remove your shoes before entering the temple. And don’t point your feet towards the Buddha as this is considered disrespectful.
After visiting the Grand Palace it is only a few minutes walk away to The Temple of the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho on Maharat Road. This Buddhist temples is the oldest temple in Bangkok and houses a stunning reclining Buddha. He is 46 metres long and 15 metres tall covered in gold leaf and intricately decorated. Truly spectacular.
If you aren’t too templed out head to the majestic Wat Arun. This 18th century Buddhist Temple is also known as the Temple of the Dawn and is a landmark in Bangkok. Rising from the banks of the Chao Phraya River it towers over the surrounding landscape. If you would like sweeping views over Bangkok city and the river climb the stairs and enjoy the views.
By now you might be hungry. Cross the river and head to the night market at Chinatown for an authentic eating experience. Yaowarat Road has a great vibe and is full of street food stalls selling delicious Thai -Chinese dishes. Don’t be phased to stand up while you eat as there maybe a lot of traffic. If single and looking to enjoy some nightlife check out Khao San Road which is known as a backpacker hub. This is due to the large number of cheap accommodation plus bars, restaurants and street stalls. Or if you are a little tired after all the walking today head back to your hotel, like I did and went up to the roof top bar at my hotel and enjoyed a cold cocktail by the pool while watching the sun set over Bangkok. Sunsets can be spectacular.
>>> Book a Day tour of Royal Bangkok here
Day 2 Bangkok – More Royal Bangkok – End with a Massage or Rooftop Drink
This morning explore more of Royal Thailand with a visit to Dusit Palace, it is the current home of the Thai Royal Family and political centre of Thailand. It is set amidst acres of leafy green gardens with complex and impressive buildings. Most of the buildings are open to visitors including my favourite, the stunning Vimanmek Royal Teach Mansion. Its Grand staircases and intricate lattice walls is a sight to see, so I highly suggest you see it!
Next visit the charming traditional Thai residence, Jim Thompson’s House. The name doesn’t sound very Thai, that is because the premises is named after Jim Thompson the founder of Thai silk who was an American businessman. Thai Silk was started in 1948 and is now a museum that explains the progress of the silk industry in Thailand and also displays the extraordinary art and antique collection of Jim Thompson. The residence is made from Teak and it is a wonderful place to visit to understand Thai Silk. It is open 11am – 7pm and the easiest way to get there is to take a tuk-tuk or a taxi.
Need a bit of a rest why not head to Lumpini Park to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and visiting temples. Lumpini Park is a gorgeous park where you can rest or maybe hire a paddle boat for paddle around the lake. Though in the heat of the middle of the day you may prefer to head back to the air conditioning of your hotel room before coming out again later.
Maybe after a long day of sightseeing have a relaxing Thai massage. Book one here. As the day is almost over, a suggestion is to head to one of the rooftop bars in Bangkok for ‘happy hour’ to end your day in style with a cocktail. It can be either the rooftop bar of Muse Hotel, Octave Rooftop Bat at the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, Sirocco’s Skybar or maybe the Sky View 360 degree restaurant and bar located on the top floor of the Grand China Hotel in Chinatown. There are a number to choose from. However, a popular place is the Moon Bar of Banyan tree Hotel as it will give you festive vibes and some fancy drinks along with great food options! But if your hotel has one, like mine did, you can always head there.
Day 3 Bangkok – Shop till you drop
After two intense days of discovering Royal Bangkok it’s now time to shop till you drop. If you are a shopaholic, you will love shopping in Thailand. Head to Siam Paragon Shopping Mall then maybe The Emporium or Central World or maybe the markets. There are markets all over Bangkok. Start by visiting Bangkok’s popular floating markets like Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for exotic fruits, vegetables and snacks. But the best markets only operate on weekends. The Chatuchak weekend market is the largest and most interesting market in Bangkok with over 15,000 stalls. Then there is also Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market which is 12 kilometres from central Bangkok and well worth the journey. If you can be in Bangkok on a weekend to visit the markets you will be treated to street food stalls and fresh produce sold from boats. But you do need to be visiting Bangkok on a weekend to enjoy these.
After the markets or serious shopping in the shopping malls why not hire a long tail boat to take you along the canal to Tailing Chan to experience some ‘fish spa therapy’ to let the fish nibble your toes. But if you still want to shop particularly for handicrafts and jewellery check out the Chiang Mai Night Market when you get to Chiang Mai. If not why not book yourself onto a Thai Cooking Course. These are lots of fun. Some courses include a visit to a market to purchase all the fresh ingredients. Then you will learn how to cook some delicious Thai food and eat what you have made. You can book into a cooking class following. What a great way to end a 3 day visit to Bangkok!
>>> Book a Thai Cooking Class here
READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Bangkok
Day 4 – Day Trip to Pattaya
You can find Pattaya on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. It is about a 2 hour journey by bus or train from Bangkok but a day tour will ensure you see all the highlights. Once a sleeping fishing village it is now known for its beaches that are lined with resort hotels, high rise condos, shopping malls, cabaret bars and 24-hour clubs. I guess you can compare it to the Gold Coast in Queensland or Cancun in Mexico for the attractions it offers. If you want to leave the beach then head to nearby Wat Phra Ya Temple to see it’s 18m tall golden Buddha! You could end your day with a cabaret show!
>>> Book your day trip to Pattaya to enjoy a cabaret show here.
Day 5 – Day Trip to Ayutthaya
Discover ruined temples at Ayutthaya, photo credit: Paul from Paulmarina
Ayutthaya is the former capital of Siam, which was destroyed by the Burmese army. Siam is the former kingdom and country of Thailand. Today, Ayutthaya is a vast area containing ruins of temples, but you will also find active temples there. What made it all famous in the last years, is a stone Buddha head overgrown by tree roots. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of historical buildings worth exploring on a dedicated day trip. Add the Ayutthaya temple ruins (Wat Mahathat) to your bucket list. As well as the oldest temple with the huge golden Buddha (Wat Phanan Choeng) and the active monastery (Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon). It is recommended to get a guide with a transportation option because you will actually get to know more about the history and customs of the area. Besides, Ayutthaya is massive, and the heat is unforgiving, so getting around by car or tuktuk is a huge plus point! A guide will also help you understand and respect religious customs, which can be a bit overwhelming if you are new to Thailand or South-East Asia.
>>> Book your day trip to Ayutthaya here
Day 6 – Day Trip to Kanchanaburi
Bridge over the River Kwai, photo by De Wet from Museum of Wander
Just two hours outside bustling Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most relaxing places to visit. Kanchanaburi is beautiful and has some of the country’s best historical and natural sights. The top attraction in Kanchanaburi is the infamous Kwai River Bridge. The steel bridge spanning the Kwai River was a major point in the Burma railway the Japanese tried to build. It is here, the scene of some of the most gruesome events in Asia during World War II. After walking across the bridge, visit the World War II war cemetery in town. The well-kept cemetery is the final resting place of thousand of POWs who lost their lives while working on the railway line.
>>> Book your day trip to Kanchanaburi here
Day 7 – Bangkok
Back in Bangkok the day is yours free to re-visit places in Bangkok you liked or to discover more of Bangkok. Many use the day to travel to Chiang Mai or take the overnight train.
Chiang Mai, 3-5 Days
Chiang Mai is the next port of call on this 1 month Thailand itinerary. It is definitely worth a visit. Chiang Mai can be found in the north of country. If you are wondering why you should travel 8 hours or so to get there, you won’t be disappointed. The Old City has many temples to visit and it is surrounded by gorgeous greenery and incredible wildlife. This is why many digital nomads choose to live here.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Some accommodation options for staying in Chiang Mai include:
Monkey Toe Guesthouse is a great budget option located just north of the Old Town. Check pricing and availability of Monkey Toe Guesthouse here
A mid-range accommodation in Chiang Mai is the gorgeous U Chiang Mai Hotel. What i like is if you check in at 5 pm, you don’t check out until 5 pm the next day. Check pricing and availability for U Chiang Mai here
For a splurge option in Chiang Mai check out 137 Pillars. This place is great if you really want a treat. The buildings themselves are stunning, and so is the croquet lawn! Each room has a dedicated butler – need I say more? Check pricing and availability for 137 Pillars here
What to See and Do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Day 1 – Get to Know the Old Town
Day 1 in Chiang Mai should be spent getting to know Chiang Mai Old Town. Inside the walls of the old town you will find many temples. In fact there are around 300 temples in Chiang Mai with many located inside the Old Town. Some of the most popular to visit include:
- Wat Pra Singh
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (outside the city but easy enough to get to by tuk-tuk)
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Wat Chiang Man
- Wat Lok Moli
You will do a lot of walking in Chiang Mai, so I hope you packed a good pair of walking shoes! You can always flag down a tuk-tuk to get you around. They are cheap and cheerful and provide a great Thai experience. And after all the walking, maybe treat yourself to a Thai foot massage! There are plenty of parlours dotted around the city where you can get a foot massage for a mere $5.
Food is great tasting in Chiang Mai. You can find many restaurants and cafes for some great food or why not take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai – if you didn’t in Bangkok. Even if you did, learn another dish in Chiang Mai!
>>> Book a Cooking Class in Chiang Mai here
Chiang Mai Day 2 – Spend it With the Elephants
In Chiang Mai, you’ll be close to some of nature’s most beautiful creatures – elephants! There are many different elephant sanctuaries across Thailand, but Chiang Mai offers some of the best places to see them in an ethical way. These sanctuaries have the seal of approval from World Animal Protection.
>>> Booking Your Day with Elephants here
Chiang Mai Day 3 – Discover the Waterfalls
A great way to spend a day in Chiang Mai is to visit the Sticky Waterfalls also known as Bua Tong. These falls are around an hour’s car drive from the city centre of Chiang Mai, but totally worth it! The name comes from the mineral deposits on the rocks that allow you to climb up them without slipping off. You can climb up the three tiers, all whilst the water is rushing down past you. There are ropes to help pull yourself up if you need them. You’d be surprised at how easy it is to walk up against the water!
The Sticky Waterfalls are surrounded by beautiful greenery and you can spend all day relaxing on the grass, chilling in the small pools or just enjoying the peace! There are a few vendors selling lunch and ice creams, so bring some small change!
You can find a songthaew (a converted van with benches in the back, typically red and everywhere in Chiang Mai) to take you. The trip should cost around 1200 baht for the driver to drive you there, wait and return you to the city centre or you can take a day tour and visit other waterfalls as well.
>>> Book your tour to Sticky Waterfalls here
READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai
I’ve budget up to 5 days in Chiang Mai in this one month Thailand itinerary. So you can extend your stay here or head to Chiang Rai for a day or so taking in this mountainous area with plenty of temples, particularly Wat Rong Khun, the famous White Temple and waterfalls. Maybe take a tour or drive to the Golden Triangle. Yep, 1-2 hours north of Chiang Rai is where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. The area has an very interesting drug trade history which you can discover at the Opium House Museum. End your days in Chiang Rai at Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar. This small market near the bus station offers a great chance for souvenir shopping. From Chiang Rai head back to Chiang Mai to travel south to begin island hopping. You could catch the overnight train back to Bangkok then fly to the islands or fly from Chiang Mai Airport.
Two Weeks Thailand Island Hopping
After a wonderful 2 weeks discovering vibrant Bangkok, the old capital of Ayutthaya, the Bridge at the River Kwai and tropical Chiang Mai it’s time for some island hopping in Thailand. Thailand has a number of islands to visit to relax on the beach – I hoped you packed for a beach holiday?, go hiking see waterfalls, enjoy Thai food or enjoy some of the best scuba diving in the world.
Thailand’s islands can be found all around the coastline of Thailand with some in The Gulf of Thailand and others in The Andaman Sea. The islands are well connected by ferries and have different styles of accommodation available on them to suit all budgets. Check out Booking.com for accommodation on your chosen island/s.
Which Thailand Island to Visit?
Each Thailand island has plenty to offer. Trat is a great stepping off point for the islands in The Gulf of Thailand while Krabi is a good place for island hopping in The Andaman Sea. Each are special in their own way. To enjoy each you may want to spend a couple of days on each – if you have the time or choose a couple and stay longer on them.
Islands in The Gulf of Thailand
There are many islands in The Gulf of Thailand to island hop. Head to Trat and jump off to some of the best Koh Chang, Koh May, Koh Hood, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Ngan and Koh Samui. Why visit these Thai islands?
Koh Chang
Koh Chang is the largest of the three islands of Koh Chang, Koh May and Koh Hood. This is one of the best places to enjoy the beautiful sunsets Thailand has to offer. Hire a bike or scooter and head to the fishing village to learn about the history of Koh Chang. Jump in the water to cool down at one of the many beaches. Or visit one of the many waterfalls you can find on this island.
Koh Mak
Take a ferry from Koh Chang and head to Koh Mak, the smallest of these islands. Koh Mak doesn’t allow cars other than the taxis and songtaews that are part of the resorts and there aren’t a lot of buildings. This is the best place to go snorkeling because the water is clear and there are a lot of places where you’ll spot fish, coral, sea urchins, and other beautiful wildlife. You could rent a kayak or paddle board and head to one of the tiny islands close by for a day as well.
Koh Kood
The other island is Koh Kood, which has enormous old trees that are worth a visit. Of course, you will find beautiful beaches here as well. There is another fishing village here where you can get the best and freshest seafood. Take time to relax at the beach or hire a bike or scooter to discover the island. And if you haven’t had enough waterfalls, go explore them at Koh Kood. There are several scattered throughout the island.
At the end of your trip, you’ll simply head back to Trat by ferry. Either take a bus or flight back to Bangkok from Trat or fly to other islands like Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Samui.
Koh Samui
Lying off the east coast of Thailand, Koh Samui is Thailand’s second largest island. Known for its coconut groves, luxury resorts and spas, it is a must visit for couples, families and adventurers.
One of it’s biggest draws are the beautiful beaches on Koh Samui, each catering for a different type of traveler – from budget to five star. Other must sees include the Big Buddha temple, Fishermans village, and the Samui elephant sanctuary, where you can feed and care for these gentle giants. For dinner, Coco Tam’s beach bar is unmissable, just make sure you stay until 10pm to enjoy the fire show on the sand (dubbed the best in Koh Samui).
Islands In The Andaman Sea
The islands off Thailand in the Andaman Sea are world-renowned. It’s here where you will find Phuket and the iconic James Bond Island’. If this is your first time in Thailand, then I would be putting these islands on your itinerary for your first visit to Thailand. Then you can ticket them off your Thailand bucket list.
Take a ferry trip past limestone cliffs on your way to James Bond Island
Book a Beach Bungalow for a Thailand Beach Holiday
Krabi
Krabi is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand. It’s not actually an island, but an area on Thailand’s coast and is well worth the visit, especially when traveling to Thailand for the first time. This beautiful region is located in the south of Thailand on the Andaman Sea and is easily accessible by flight from Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
Krabi is famous for its fascinating rugged limestone cliffs, dense green jungle, snow-white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and breathtaking islands! The resorts of Ao Nang and picturesque Klong Muang are a particularly good recommendation for a vacation.
During a visit to Krabi, you can visit numerous sights. Highlights being the Peninsula Railay with the world famous Railay Beach and the even more beautiful Phra Nang Beach. As well as discovering Krabi, it is a great stepping off point for many islands including Koh Hong, Koh Poda and Chicken Island, where there is a chicken head rock. As well as plenty of islands to discover you can climb the countless steps of the high Tiger Cave Temple. Or visit to the Elephant Sanctuary Krabi.
Phuket
The famous James Bond Island located in Phan Nga Bay – Phuket is an absolute bucket list destination in Thailand. The great thing is that you can visit the island for less than $50 on a day trip!
Leaving on the boat from Phuket you will pass many breathtaking limestone cliffs before arriving at the magical James Bond Island. This island was featured in the movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. Before the 1974 movie, starring Roger Moore and Christopher Lee literally no international tourists had heard about James Bond Island. Now, it’s popularity has exploded and it is a must-see in Thailand during your island hopping odyssey.
The beautiful thin limestone cliff of James Bond Island has a really unusual shape and rises majestically out the sea. It is very slim at the bottom and gets wider towards the top. Very impressive to see. Now you can’t go onto James Bond Island – it is really for viewing only. You can admire it from a small beach opposite it on Koh Ping Ghan.
Koh Phi Phi
Many water enthusiasts add Koh Phi Phi to their Thailand itinerary as it’s waters are filled with exotic marine life. If you are a keen snorkeler or scuba diver, you will love a visiting this island for the fabulous diving spots. But you can lounge around at the beach all day if you prefer!
Organising Your Thailand Holiday
Things to Know Before You Go to Thailand
Tip 1: Dress modestly, especially when you’re visiting temples. If you’re not wearing the right clothes you won’t be allowed to enter or they will give you something to cover up. Most Thai people practice Buddhism. Give way to monks when walking on footpaths, and don’t sit next to them on public transport. Women can’t touch a monk or their belongings.
Tip 2: People appreciate it if you speak their language. Learn at least the basics for saying hello (Sawadee krap/ka) and goodbye, thank you (Kap khun krap/ka), and a few other phrases.
Tip 3: Don’t forget to try the local food because it’s amazing. Just remember that Thai people love spicy food so if they say a little spicy it might still be more than what you were expecting. Fortunately, they have fresh fruit juices to calm your tongue after a spicy meal.
Tip 4: Before you visit, make sure to check Thailand visa requirements. Travelers from most countries can stay visa-free in Thailand for up to one month (30 days), the perfect amount of time to explore this incredible country.
Tip 5: Before you start your Thailand One Month Itinerary, get an International Driver’s License. One of the easiest ways to get around in Thailand is by scooter or motorbike. To rent a motorbike in Thailand, often you only need to provide the tour company your passport or a 2000+ baht deposit. No license check necessary. However, in case of accidents or random police check-points, it’s best to have an International Driver’s License on you.
Tip 6: I recommend staying close to the centre of each city you visit. Being walking distance to many of the sights and restaurants will save on time and money spent on transportation. If possible, in Bangkok, book accommodation that has a rooftop pool and bar. Believe me, after a hard day of sightseeing in Thailand heat, you will enjoy a dip in the pool and a cool drink while overlooking the lights of Bangkok.
Tip 7: Purchase Travel Insurance. Anything can happen when you’re traveling in Thailand, especially when you’re riding your first scooter, snorkeling, hiking up mountains or sliding down waterfalls. Be prepared for anything by purchasing travel insurance before you depart. Get a quote from World Nomads insurance, or SafetyWing.
When to Visit Thailand
The best time to visit Thailand weather-wise is between November to March. But this means it’s also the busiest season, especially in December and January when people come here to celebrate Christmas or New Year.
If you’re looking to visit Thailand’s coast try the shoulder season – April to June and September and October. The climate differs between the eastern and western coasts, where the west coast is more suitable for September and October.
If you don’t mind a little bit of rain and prefer to spend as little money as possible, visit Thailand in July to October. This is the low season, so you’ll get better prices for everything.
Getting to Thailand
Many arrive in Thailand by plane at Suvarnabhumi Airport, also known unofficially as Bangkok International Airport. However, if you are already in Asia you can cross from one of the border countries with Thailand. They being, Myammar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia.
From the airport you will need to get to your accommodation in Bangkok. There are a couple of ways. You can take The Airport Rail Link. This connects the airport to the city. Trains depart every 15 minutes between 6am and midnight. The cost is a reasonable 45 Bahts. You could also take a taxi which can cost between 250 and 450 Bahts depending on your destination and the traffic. Or you can book private transport. Private transport will pick you up at the airport and take you to your accommodation. I chose this option, well, it chose me, it was included with my accommodation. You can book private transport by clicking here.
Getting around Thailand
Public transport is quite good in Thailand and inexpensive. Whether you are traveling by bus, train, or airplane, there are a lot of options. One thing a lot of people add to their itinerary is the sleeper train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
In cities, you will see red songtaews that are basically shared taxis that will take you anywhere. Just make sure to agree on a price before getting in. Grab is popular as well in Thailand and they have cars, taxis, and scooters.
Although traffic in Thailand seems quite chaotic there is a system to the madness. If you decide to hire a car, scooter, or bike it won’t be hard to blend in. Just pay attention to the locals and do as they do. And don’t forget to organise an International Driver’s Licence to hire a vehicle.
Quick Thailand Facts
Capital City of Thailand is Bangkok.
Local currency is Bhat.
Koh means island and we visit a lot of Kohs on this Thailand 1 month trip.
What to Pack for a Holiday in Thailand?
When packing for a holiday in Thailand, be governed by the weather. Most of the time it is hot and humid so pack light clothes. Also a good pair of walking shoes as you will do plenty of walking. And don’t forget the sunscreen and a hat for those lazy days at the beach or by the pool.
Tip: Appearances mean a lot in Thailand so dressing properly and being respectful of dress regulations you should be treated in return with respect. Thailand does not have a specific dress code in general but when visiting temples there is a specific dress code for tourists and locals. You must have covered shoulders and wear pants or dresses that cover your knees and preferably your ankles also. Men should wear a collared shirt rather than a t-shirt. And you must take your shoes off in temples. Keep all beach wear for the beach.
Your packing list for Thailand should include:
Documents. Passport, visa (if needed), money and credit cards, travel insurance details, pre-booked entrance and Hop-on Hop-off bus tickets, pre-booked accommodation details. Also take an International Driver’s Licence as one of the easiest ways to get around backpacking in Thailand is by scooter or motorbike.
Clothes. It is mostly hot and humid in Thailand so thin materials that breathe and keep you cool are a must pack. You will need underwear, shorts and t-shirts, long pants or skirts for visiting temples, a scarf or sarong to cover your head, and I always include a light jacket. You just never know, as some nights can get cool. Ensure you have good walking shoes as you will be walking a lot.
Electronics. Phone, camera, power adaptor plug and power bank. Laptop and any other gear if you are a digital nomad.
Toiletries.
Luggage. As you will be moving around every few days on this itinerary of Italy, ensure your luggage is easy to carry.
How Much Money to Take to Thailand for a 1 month holiday?
To work out how much it will cost to visit Thailand for 30 days or so, I suggest you create a budget. List it out as follows:
Airfare or transport to Thailand _____
Transport to travel around Thailand _____
Accommodation 28 nights @ _____
Food _____ is this included? Is breakfast included in accommodation stay?
Extras _____ ie. entrance fees to museums and other sites
Travel Insurance ______
TIP: Purchase as much as possible before you arrive then you don’t have to worry about taking extra money.
And how will you take your money on your Thailand holiday? Take cash, credit and debit cards to give you the flexibility to pay for things.
Is One Month in Thailand long enough?
Spending one month in Thailand is long enough to visit the country. One month will allow you to visit all the best parts of Thailand. The capital of Bangkok, north to Chiang Mai and south to island hop. But the longer you have, the more you will be able to see and do. Some people fall in love with Thailand and want to stay. And there are options including the Elite Visa and talk of a Digital Nomad visa. So how long to visit Thailand? How long have you got? One month in Thailand is a great beginning.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip to Thailand. Get a quote for travel insurance from WorldNomads or SafetyWing.
Are You Ready to Plan your Perfect Itinerary for 1 Month Thailand Holiday?
There is so much to see and do in Thailand. If you use this 1 month itinerary for Thailand you will see the best of Thailand has to offer. And like many fall in love with the country and want to stay longer! Have you been to Thailand? Or are planning your first visit to Thailand? Do you have any questions about visiting Thailand for the first time? Ask away in the comments.
If you want to spend longer than a month in Thailand you will need to see what visas are available.
READ MORE:
Thailand Digital Nomad Visa
Expat Life in Thailand
Get a Job Teaching English in Thailand
I can’t believe I’ve never managed to get to Thailand. This itinerary certainly gives me food for thought. I’d love to visit Krabi and Chiang Mai (for the elephants).
What an amazing and inspiring post! It made me want to drop everything and head to Thailand. Spending a month there, in urban environments and island hopping would be the adventure of a lifetime! Thank you for this comprehensive, informative, and well-written post! Will definitely use to plan our trip someday.
Great to hear. Thailand is a wonderful place to spend one month.
I loved my day trip to Ayutthaya. We took the train from Bangkok and did everything ourselves. Never made it to Kanchanaburi though – maybe next time! Some great tips here for Thailand newbies!
It is such a beautiful place. And easy to do a day trip from Bangkok.
I would LOVE to spend an month in Thailand! I am definitely saving this itinerary for future travel planning.
This itinerary makes me want to visit Thailand asap! Thailand is such a beautiful country and I love their food!
Spending one month in Thailand sounds DREAMY! I hope to follow this itinerary one day – thanks for sharing!
Great tips and itinerary. We did many of your suggestions on our first visit 8 years ago. Finally getting back in January. This time to all Chan.
Thank you. It was easy to write the itinerary because of all the beautiful places to visit in Thailand.
Thanks for sharing these incredible destinations and experiences—I’m feeling inspired to explore Thailand more. Been to Bangkok, Phuket at Chiang Mai but clearly, there’s a lot more to see!
So many things to see and do in Thailand! I have been there a few times, but so much more to explore! Thanks for sharing!
I would love to spend a month in Thailand. We managed 14 day stays a couple times, My favourite apart from Bangkok and beaches were Sukhothai and also the Angkor Era Temples near Nakhon Ratchasima. Enough tourist infrastructure but not crowded, and the best food
Thailand is going to be my 1st stop on my round the world trip, this is really useful for my planning , thanks