10 Days Thailand Tour: How to Plan a 10-Day Trip in Thailand?

What can you do with 10 days in Thailand? If it’s your first trip, we recommend sampling a bit of everything that makes it such a popular destination. The history, culture, and food of Bangkok. The mystery and natural beauty of the Golden Triangle. Then, some tranquil relaxation on the beach. These are the perfect ingredients for how to plan a 10-day trip to Thailand.

Arrive in Bangkok and Stay in Bangkok for 3 Days

Bangkok is the ancient and modern heart of Thailand, the right place to start a tour of the country. You’ll see the vibrant urban center that attracts millions of tourists, and be able to soak up the atmosphere of the city while exploring its top attractions.

The Grand Palace is one of the premier must-see attractions. Built in 1782, it has over 200,000 m2 of intricately designed temples, pavilions, gardens, and murals. The highlight is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which hosts a revered statue carved from a single block of jade.

Other iconic temples wait to be visited around the city. Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, is an 82m high Khmer-style tower and the most published image of Bangkok. After ascending its steep stairs, you can admire a panorama of the city and rivers. The temple of the golden Buddha, Wat Traimit, is home to a 5.5-ton gold Buddharupa statue.

You can explore the city with a Chao Phraya River and canal tour, and stop to visit markets like the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market or Bangkok Flower Market. While walking around, don’t forget to sample the huge variety of street Thailand food like pad Thai and green papaya salad. 

3 Days Bangkok Highlights Tour

Bangkok

Head to Chiang Mai and Explore the Golden Triangle for 4 Days

Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle are where to see the beauty of northern Thailand.

Near Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most popular in Thailand and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls. Ang Ka Nature Trail takes you through the unique ecosystem of the high-altitude marshland on a peaceful trekking experience. You can also visit Ban Mae Klang Luang, a S’gaw Karen village, and see the 40m Sirithan Waterfall.

Elephant Nature Park is worth a full-day visit. It’s a natural home and sanctuary for elephants, buffalo, and rescued animals. The park has special viewing spots to view the animals as they roam free in the natural setting.

The route to Chiang Rai in the Golden Triangle passes by unique attractions. Mae Kachan Hot Spring is a great spot for rejuvenation in the mineral-rich waters. The White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, stands out from the natural scenery with its brilliant white exterior. Inside are intricate murals depicting scenes of Buddhist mythology.

Unique elements of contemporary Thai culture can be seen at Baan Dan, known as the Black House. The large complex of over 40 buildings is filled with the unconventional artistic vision of the late artist Thawan Duchanee.

Near the heart of the mysterious Golden Triangle region is Mount Doi Mae Salong, the highest peak on the Thai-Myanmar border. The area has traditional villages with picturesque terraced farms. Doi Tung Temple provides great views of the surroundings. It dates back to the 15th century and has unique images and architecture. You should also visit the Opium Museum to learn more about the illicit trade that has shaped the history of the region. 

Mount Doi Mae Salong under the golden sunrise

Relax on One of the Beaches for 3 Days

Relaxing on the beach is another must-do in Thailand, but picking one beach to visit is difficult.

Phuket is easy to reach from within Thailand or abroad, and home to famous golden sand beaches like Patong Beach and Kata Beach. The charming streets of Old Phuket Town are packed with boutique shops and local cafes, and the Phi Phi Islands are only a short boat trip away.

Krabi’s clear, turquoise waters are surrounded with a landscape of rainforests and limestone cliffs. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach. It offers endless choices of water activities like kayaking, swimming, and long-tail boat tours.

The Krabi Town White Market is a great place to snack on street food while enjoying live music and entertainment. Nearby are many natural wonders to explore like the limestone cliffs of Railay Beach, Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, and Tiger Cave Temple.

Koh Samui is one of the true escape destinations among Thailand beaches. The calm waters of Lamai Beach have a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding, You can hike the inland jungles to find places like Na Muang Waterfall or catch the breathtaking panorama of the island from the towering Big Buddha Temple.

Enjoy the gentle sea breeze on the soft sands at Lamai Beach

If It’s the Second Time to Visit Thailand or Have More Days, Add these Places

If you have time for a longer trip or are returning to Thailand for a second visit, there is still so much more to do. For many people, the first choice is spending more time on the beach, or visiting other famous beaches like Pattaya, Koh Tao, or Koh Lipe.

Kanchanaburi, in western Thailand, offers the chance to see more of the country’s natural beauty and learn about Thai history. Erawan National Park has the beautiful seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, and hiking trails to explore the limestone caves and diverse ecosystem.

The Bridge over the River Kwai is the most iconic landmark in the region. An important part of the history of World War II, the bridge was part of the Death Railway constructed by forced laborers and prisoners of war.

Just north of Bangkok is the vast archaeological park of Ayutthaya. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Today, you can explore the ancient temples, palaces, and monuments.

Two Weeks In-depth Thailand Historical Tour Package

Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Sukhothai – Doi Inthanon – Chiang Mai – Pai – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle - Hua Hin - Bangkok

The Price of a 10 Days Thailand Tour Package

How much does it cost to travel in Thailand? Thailand has travel options to suit any budget. May to October is the most affordable time to fly there. Round-trip flights from New York City can cost as little as 1,000 USD.

Accommodation prices depend on where and when you go, and how many stars the hotel has. The most popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya tend to be the most expensive. Peak season prices for 3-star hotels are around 50-60 USD per night but can drop to as low as 30 USD in the low season. 4-star hotels with a little more luxury are usually between 80-150 USD, and 5-star hotels can be up to 200-300 USD. These prices can drop by as much as 50% in the low season.

Food is a big attraction in Thailand, and the best food isn’t very expensive. Even if you plan on traveling in top luxury, you should still try the street food and small local eateries. Delicious pad Thai from a street food vendor only costs 1-3 USD, and a full meal in a small eatery won’t be more than 2-4 USD. Formal dining or a beachfront seafood meal can cost around 10-15 USD.

Getting around in Thailand is usually cheap. Taxi and tuk-tuk trips usually cost around 5 USD. A private car with a driver can be hired for 70-125 USD per day. The tourist attractions you’ll be traveling to are all very affordable. The Grand Palace is among the most expensive at 14 USD. Tickets for most temples and museums cost between 1.5-4 USD. 

Grab a fun and affordable tuk-tuk in Thailand

More Tips for a 10 Days Thailand Tour Package

1. November to February. the best time to visit Thailand, has the coolest weather with little rain, but is also the peak season.
2. Tipping is required but can be appropriate in some situations. Plan to give a 1 USD tip to porters or bartenders, and 15-20% for services like massages or spas.
3. You can bargain with vendors at markets, but keep it polite and respectful.
4. Remember to wear conservative clothes when visiting temples. Your shoulders and knees must be covered.
5. Don’t neglect sun protection. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
6. Mosquitoes can be plentiful, especially in jungle areas. Use insect repellent with DEET, and consider sleeping under a mosquito net. 

Conclusion

Follow the perfect recipe for 10 days in Thailand, and it will end up being the first of many trips you take there. The country has everything from vibrant urban life to breathtaking natural beauty and ancient cultural attractions. Our tours will help you sample the highlights of the country. Contact us for more information, or book your Thailand tour today.