If you’re looking for a country full of culture, amazing food, and beaches, you’ve come to the perfect place with my 3 week Thailand itinerary. Let’s get into the best route from North to South, epic things to do, how to get around, accommodation, and more!
If you are thinking of visiting Thailand you’ve made a damn good choice. It’s a huge country with so much to explore, from the dense jungles, palm tree-covered beaches, and crazy markets.
Though let’s be honest, since it’s so big where do you even start, and how do you know where to go? Especially when you only have 3 weeks in Thailand and want to make the most of your time! Well, that’s exactly where I come in.
I fell in love with Thailand as soon as I set foot off the plane back in 2017. So much so that I’ve actually traveled the country five different times so far and spent my time exploring some of the most popular towns, cities, and islands.
You’ll see this itinerary runs from north to south, starting in my favorite city of Chiang Mai and finishing up among the chaos of Phuket. You’ll find getting in and out easy with international airports, and you can also flip the route around and travel south to north if flights work better for you.
Now, this Thailand itinerary is absolutely perfect if it’s your first time visiting, so let’s get into all the information you need to know for the ultimate trip.
Best 3 Weeks In Thailand Itinerary: EPIC Route From The North To The South
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
Map Of My 3 Week Thailand Itinerary
Here’s a little Google Maps overview of the route we’ll be taking down the country and the stops made along the way:
Chiang Mai > Ayutthaya > Bangkok > Koh Tao > Koh Phangan > Ao Nang > Koh Lanta > Koh Phi Phi > Phuket
Even though this is my recommended backpacking itinerary, if you’re actually traveling more of Southeast Asia you’ll be best to mix it up a bit.
Why not fly into Phuket and working your way up? Or even do what I’ve done before by starting in Chiang Mai, crossing into Laos from the north, then going to Vietnam and Cambodia before heading back to Bangkok and continuing your travels South.
You’ll be able to hit up some of the Southeast Asia highlights and visiting a few of the cheapest countries for backpackers.
There are also plenty more spots in Thailand well worth checking out if you have a bit of extra time! Some of my other favorites include Chiang Rai, Khao Sok National Park, Koh Samui, and Koh Lipe.
Chiang Mai (Days 1–3)
Chiang Mai is the perfect introduction to your 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary. Even though this is a city, it’s a much more relaxed vibe than somewhere like Bangkok.
This will allow you to start your trip relaxed and ready to explore. Plus, get over that jetlag!
I have created a 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary which is well worth the read if you want to go into quite a bit of detail.
How To Get To Chiang Mai
If you’re traveling from your home country straight to Thailand one of your best options will likely be to catch a flight from Hong Kong, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, and Malaysia. These airports offer direct flights to Chiang Mai.
You could also be coming from Laos if you have been backpacking Southeast Asia already. One of my favorite things is the slow boat from Luang Prabang to the Thai-Laos border town. From there is it pretty easy to get a minivan or a bus down to Chiang Mai on 12Go Asia.
It’s also super easy to get from Chiang Mai Airport to the city which I have a full guide on.
Top Things To Do In Chiang Mai
First up, let’s mention THE thing you have to do in Chiang Mai, visit an elephant park. Sure there are plenty of elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai however, you want to make sure you visit an ethical one. This means no riding, no chains, no tricks, and ideally no bathing.
Also, I always tell everyone visiting Chiang Mai to make sure they’re there on a Sunday. This is so you can visit the incredible Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market. Over a kilometer long, it’s a shoppers paradise with delicious food, local artists, clothing, and souvenirs!
Some of the other best things to do in Chiang Mai include:
- Exploring the old town temples
- Taking a cooking class
- Visiting Doi Suthep
- Trying out the incredible restaurants and cafes
- Day trip to Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai
I’ll always book somewhere in the Old City to stay in Chiang Mai. This is because I’ll be able to easily walk to get to some incredible temples, awesome shopping, and of course, numerous cafes and restaurants.
There are also plenty of hostels available in Chiang Mai. I generally budget around $9.00 per night for a basic hostel dorm bed. My favorite hostel when backpacking Chiang Mai is The Common Hostel. It’s a good quality option where I know I’ll get a comfortable bed with curtains, a clean bathroom, and chill common areas.
During my visit this year, I stayed at The Moon Dragon Hotel for something a little more luxe for $60.00 per night. The location was perfect, right in the center, and having a pool to relax was fantastic.
A modern and upscale hostel. From $13.00 per night including a fab breakfast. BOOK NOW |
Chiangmai Midpoint Activity Hostel A favorite with travelers. A hostel with all the amenities, from $6.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Beautiful private rooms for $55.00 per night and in the heart of the city with a pool. BOOK NOW |
My favorite place to stay right in the heart of the city. Private rooms start from $65.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Get From Chiang Mai To Ayutthaya
The journey from Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya is a bit of a long one. This is where I recommend you take the sleeper train, though get off in Ayutthaya before it gets into Bangkok. This is where you will be spending one of your nights here, sleeping on the train!
It’s a comfortable journey, much better than taking a bus and having to stop multiple times in the night for a “toilet break”. The journey is super popular and is a good initiation to the backpacking Thailand route.
The journey in reverse from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a lot more popular. Though tickets for the sleeper berths can sell out quite far in advance. I recommend pre-booking online at 12.Go Asia. The journey itself takes AT LEAST 12 hours, so bring snacks and entertainment (phone reception can be quite spotty).
Ayutthaya (Days 3–5)
Ayutthaya is the perfect place for history lovers to learn a bit more about Thailand’s past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site once was the capital of the Siamese Kingdom and actually grew to one of the largest in the world.
Unfortunately, in 1767 Ayutthaya was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese. The city was burned to the ground and the locals who called it home had to flee. Nowadays it’s a sleepy town with temples seemingly around every corner.
Visiting these temples is actually why the majority of travelers go to the city. Some have been restored and others are untouched with the beauty of nature slowly taking over. This is one of the best landmarks in Thailand and draws in thousnads of tourists on the daily.
What To Do In Ayutthaya
Okay there’s a lot of temples to see here so have a good breakfast and either hire yourself a bicycle or book a tour to get around. You can even take a boat between some of the temples!
- Wat Mahathat for the famous Buddha head wrapped in tree roots
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram, one of the most impressive temples in Ayutthaya and a great spot for sunset
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet which wasonce part of the royal palace complex
- Wat Lokayasutharam home to the giant reclining Buddha
- If you have some extra time and aren’t too templed out you can also check out Bang Pa-In Royal Palace
Where To Stay In Ayutthaya
You’ll actually only need to stay one night in Ayutthaya. The main tourist part of the city isn’t too big so wherever you decide to book you won’t be far from the action.
For an affordable private room have a look at Baan Are Gong Riverside Guesthouse where rooms start at just $14.00 and it’s in a great location.
Another option is Chommuang Guesthouse with rooms starting from $16.00 per night. These options are great if you have a friend or partner to share with.
For those traveling solo in Thailand or a more of a budget, a hostel is a great option. Also, they generally will run their own tours of the nearby temples, often at a much cheaper price than the travel agencies, and it’s a great way to make friends.
I have stayed at Early Bird Hostel Ayutthaya and had an excellent experience, including hiring a bike to explore the nearby temples. Plus I am a sucker for good air conditioning, dorm beds with curtains, and close to 7/11, so it’s a big thumbs up from me!
A friendly and affordable hostel in a great location. Private rooms start from $20.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A great choice for solo travelers. Prices start from $8.00 per night including breakfast. BOOK NOW |
A lovely guesthouse perfect for travelers on a budget. Private rooms here start from $30.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A super affordable option if you are backpacking Thailand on a budget. Private rooms start from $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Get From Ayutthaya To Bangkok
The best option is by minivan or bus. The drive is easy and it is pretty short, just expect it to take an hour or two depending on traffic.
Alternatively, you can also continue on the train. It leaves every hour and takes around as long as a minivan. Unfortunately, the train station in Ayutthaya is not very central. You’ll need to take a tuk-tuk there which will cost you around 100 THB / $3.00.
You can book your tickets for the train or a bus over on 12.Go Asia.
Bangkok (Days 5–7)
Welcome to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, and our next stop on the 3 week itinerary for Thailand.
This city is unlike anywhere you have visited so far and you’ll likely love it or hate it. Either way, it’s the main hub for travelers in Thailand, and most seem to spend a few days here exploring this crazy city.
You’ll find amazing food here, plenty of places to party, and a lot of culture. Don’t rush (especially in this heat), take your time getting around, and drink many Thai iced teas!
It’s super easy to get around with Grab (Southeast Asia Uber) and if you’re feeling brave give the motorbike option a go to experince how locals typically travel.
Things To Do In Bangkok
One of the best things to do during your 2 days in Bangkok is to visit The Grand Palace, and yes it is worth the eye-watering $16.70 / 500 THB entry fee.
This also grants you access to both the Royal Palace and the famous Wat Phra Kaeo Temple housing the 14th Century Emerald Buddha. Don’t forget to cover up your legs and shoulders as with the rest of the temples in Thailand.
Nearby to Khao San Road, you can take a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River or visit Wat Arun. These are both super budget friendly ideas perfect if you’re backpacking Thailand on a budget.
Some of the other best things to do in Bangkok include:
- Shop It Up at the Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Experience the nightlife on Khao San Road
- Appreciate the views at a Bangkok Skybar
- Take a day trip to the train market and floating market
Where To Stay In Bangkok
Bangkok is split up into many different areas, all offering something different and unique. However, the ones most popular for tourists are Khao San Road, Siam, Silom, and Sukhumvit.
Khao San Road is the ideal place if this is your first time in Bangkok. However, I don’t recommend ANYONE stay on the actual Khao San Road. Instead, stay a street or two back, there are plenty of hostels around Khao San Road, just be prepared they are more on the expensive side.
If I’m solo and looking for a social spot, I’ll always choose BED STATION Hostel Khaosan. It’s so easy to meet other travelers here, also bonus points for the pod style dorm beds that are freakin huge!
In terms of a private room, I recently discovered Sleep Withinn and found it a great option just a street back from Khao San Road. There is a lovely rooftop pool, the air con was pumping, and it’s pretty affordable at $23.00 per night considering the location.
A super social hostel with a pool. The perfect backpacker stay, starting from $15.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A favorite with travelers. A hostel with all the amenities, from $16.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A great hotel among the action. Private rooms start from $26.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Affordable and modern private rooms from $40.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Travel From Bangkok To Koh Tao
Prepare yourself, both mentally and physically for a long journey to Koh Tao from Bangkok because, there’s no direct transport option. It could be either a train and boat, plane and boat, or a bus and boat combination.
I booked my journey with Lomprayah on 12 Go Asia. I’ve done both their overnight and daytime trip, both are long, but it take minimal planning. Just get comfy on the bus and relax. You can read about my full experience traveling to Koh Tao.
Alternatively, you can also fly to Koh Samui and take a ferry to Koh Tao. This is a much quicker, but more pricey option. Be aware you’ll need your flight to arrive around midday to catch the last ferry.
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
Koh Tao (Days 7–10)
Time to hit up one of the best Thai Islands! Koh Tao is the perfect spot to relax on surrounded by incredible beaches. Welcome to paradise!
This is a nice first island in Thailand to hit up where you can relax, slow down a little, and enjoy being out of the bustling city.
I recently went back to Koh Tao to do my Advanced PADI certificate and it was awesome to do it somewhere with a real backpacker vibe. It can cost as little as $300.00 to become certified (one of the cheapest places in the world. I dove with Big Blue Diving and had a great time. They have a super nice dive boat, and it’s a minute’s walk from the shop to the beach.
Things To Do In Koh Tao
There are so many amazing things to do here, whether you want to keep yourself busy or chill out. You can easily find amazing snorkeling, epic diving, viewpoints, and of course, those beautiful beaches.
Make sure to book yourself a Koh Tao Snorkeling Tour while on the island. On it, you will visit the famous Koh Nang Yuan, Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay, Aow Leuk, and Sharks Bay.
Some of the other awesome things you need to do in Koh Tao include:
- Explore the incredible viewpoints
- Watch a fireshow
- Relax on the beaches
- Get Padi or SSI Certified
Where To Stay On Koh Tao
There are a few main areas of Koh Tao which are Sairee Beach, Chalok Baan Kao, and Mae Haad. Personally, I recommend Sairee Beach as it’s the perfect hangout for travelers. There you can find some quaint bamboo bungalows as well as resorts and of course, hostels.
On my more recent trip, I ended up staying at Wind Beach Resort in Sairee Beach which was fantastic. It was $90.00 per night for a private room and you will have multiple pools, beach access, and a couple of onsite restaurants and cafes.
You can also find some excellent food places located in Sairee Beach in Koh Tao! I HIGHLY recommend Mama Tam for delicious Thai food that will make you, and your wallet happy.
A more luxe hostel with a pool in a great location! Pod style dorms start from $16.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
The perfect glampacker hostel located in the jungle.Enjoy the social atmosphere from $18.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
My favorite resort in Koh Tao right on the beach in a great location. Prices start from $70.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A more affordable option in Sairee Beach. Private rooms start from $50.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Get To Koh Phangan From Koh Tao
It’s super easy to travel between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao with regular ferries departing daily. Thank god this isn’t a major travel day, instead just an hour or two including time waiting around at the ports.
I always use the Lomprayah ferry and they have 5 different departure times per day. These are 9.15 am, 9.30 am, 12.30 pm, 3.30 pm and 4.30 pm.
Their boats from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao will take about an hour. The cost of the ride is $16.00 / 600 THB and can be booked over at 12Go Asia. This is a pretty good price and overall isn’t too much more expensive than taking a regular ferry.
Koh Phangan (Days 10–13)
Welcome to our next island paradise Koh Phangan! You’ll quickly learn this place is an interesting mix of a chill relaxed holiday vibe and hundreds of people getting drunk and doing drugs.
However, don’t worry too much, as the latter part is only during certain moon stages of the month.
Nevertheless, no matter what your scene is you’ll easily be able to find it here. Whether you are looking to explore some of the best beaches or see where the night takes you at the full moon party.
Things To Do In Koh Phangan
If you’re comfortable doing so, I highly recommend hiring a motorbike. This will allow you to explore the island with freedom and to do so at your own pace.
Seriously there are so many waterfalls, incredible beaches, and epic viewpoints you could easily spend weeks here!
Some of the other best things to check out in Koh Phangan include:
- Hire a motorbike and explore the island
- Forget your worries at the Full Moon Party
- Go diving at Sail Rock
- Enjoy some fresh water by visiting the numerous waterfalls
Where To Stay On Koh Phangan
To be honest, before you decide where exactly you want to stay in Koh Phangan you first need to figure out whether you wish to stay on a secluded beach or among the action of the Full Moon Party.
Now, if you are that party person Haad Rin is for you. Here is more of a built up township where you can find a few different hostels, plenty of restaurants, and a pretty decent beach.
I stayed in Baan Tai it was at Phangan Arena Hostel, which wouldn’t be my usual choice but I wanted to try embrace the Koh Phangan party spirit. I’ll say it was super social and easy to meet people, however for someone who doesn’t drink it probably wasn’t the right choice.
If you’re looking for somewhere a bit more quiet and for real holiday vibes I highly recommend Haad Salad, plus the beach here is gorgeous!
A great hostel among all the party action. Dorms here start from $26.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A clean and comfortable hostel with a great vibe in Thong Sala where the ferries arrive. Dorms start from $25.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Beautiful bamboo bungalows on the beach with a pool. Private rooms here start from $25.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
An excellent beach front location with plenty restaurants around. Dorms here start from $18.00 per night and private rooms from $45.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Travel From Koh Phangan To Ao Nang
Once again I used Lomprayah to travel to Ao Nang from Koh Phangan. This is mainly because I wanted a stress-free travel day where all the different transport methods could be booked all at once and I didn’t have to deal with the stress of getting from A to B and then B to C.
It isn’t an overly long journey, taking just over 6 hours, but traveling from the East Coast to the West does take some time.
The boat took us across to Koh Samui to collect some more travelers before heading back to the mainland. Once at the wharf, numerous buses were waiting going to various destinations around the country.
Tickets can be purchased through 12.Go Asia, and this route does book out, so I recommend booking in advance.
Ao Nang (Days 13–14)
In typical fashion, I read so much online “ohhh go to Krabi”, “you have to visit Krabi”, blah blah blah. Well, take it from me don’t, and instead head to Ao Nang. Ao Nang is a beautiful beachside town looking out over the Andaman Sea.
In this little slice of paradise there are a couple of lovely beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of accommodation options.
It’s definitely a lot more holiday/resort style here than in Krabi town which seems quite city-like, and isn’t the prettiest place.
Things To Do In Ao Nang
There are plenty of things to do and it’s a great spot to spend a couple days.
This includes visiting the nearby Khao Phanom National Park which has incredible waterfalls and nature sprawled across 50 square kilometers.
While you are in the area, definitely take a day trip to Railay Beach! Seriously this is one of those picture perfect places in Thailand that you have to see to believe. If you can afford it try to extend your Thailand itinerary by 1 day to spend overnight here.
Some of the other best things to do in Ao Nang include:
- Hike the short Monkey Trail
- Do a day trip to Railay Beach from Ao Nang
- Go on an epic snorkeling tour with sunset and dinner for $38.00 per person!
- Book yourself into a nice resort and enjoy the views
- Eat your heart out at some of the incredible restaurants in Krabi
Where To Stay In Ao Nang
A lot of the hostels in Ao Nang seem to start around $10.00 for a shared dorm room. However, I will say they are higher quality rooms with privacy curtains and little reading lights.
If you’re looking to splash out you certainly can in Ao Nang, though there are some good mid-priced rooms as well.
My favorite accommodation in Krabi and Ao Nang is The Vatika Resort & Spa which is a great affordable stay I found during Songkran. The location is absolutely incredible underneath the limestone cliffs and in the jungle with monkeys roaming around. Prices start from $27.00 per night, oh and it also has the most gorgeous pool!
A social hostel perfect for solo travelers. Dorm rooms here start from $9.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A great choice for a clean hostel a 15 minute walk from the beach. Pod style dorms start from $9.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
An affordable guesthouse a short walk from the beach. Private rooms start from $30.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
My personal favorite with a great pool, comfy rooms and beautiful views. Private rooms start from $27.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
How To Travel From Ao Nang To Koh Lanta
You basically have two options here, the cheaper van ride for $15.00, or the more expensive speed boat for $30.00. End of the day it entirely comes down to budget, and I must say the views on the boat are very nice.
The speedboat takes around 2 hours, whereas the van will be around 3 and a half hours.
We actually booked our boat through our accommodation which included the transfer. Though we were forgotten about which meant a quick race across town and sprint to jump onboard. If you would like to book in advance you can check out 12.Go Asia is a great choice.
Koh Lanta (Days 14–17)
Koh Lanta is a nice chilled out island which is nowhere near as touristy as the neighboring Koh Phi Phi or Phuket which we will check out later in this Thailand itinerary.
However, it’s also not completely off the beaten track that first-time travelers would find things a bit daunting or logistics complicated.
Even though it’s a laid-back place, Koh Lanta has heaps of things to do here. Sure it won’t have the massive waterparks that you’ll find in Koh Phangan and the huge parties of Koh Phi Phi. Instead it’s all about exploring at your own pace.
Things To Do In Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is the perfect place for nature lovers. Check out the incredible Mu Ko Lanta National Park and watch the sunset from on top of the viewpoint which sticks out from the ocean.
If you are feeling brave and aren’t scared of the dark head to Khao Mai Kaew Cave. When you arrive you will be set up with a guide who will take you around for 2 and a half hours. Squeeze in tight so you will be navigating around rocks and inside of caverns.
More things to do in Koh Lanta include:
- Hangout with the dogs at Lanta Animal Welfare
- Hire a motorbike and explore the epic viewpoints
- Snorkeling tour to Koh Maa and Koh Rok – the best snorkeling I’ve done in Thailand to date
- Visit The Sea Gypsy Village
- Go on an epic snorkeling tour to the Emerald Cave (this is on my bucketlist)
Where To Stay In Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is a pretty large island with a few local townships dotted around. On the West Coast you’ll find the majority of accommodation options. There are also an incredible amount of nice fancy beachside resorts around.
On my most recent trip, I had to stay somewhere nicer than usual as I had brought my mother along and Treeya Lanta was perfect. This place has the best pool area I’ve had in Thailand and is just a minute’s walk from the beach. Although it’s pricier, starting at $50.00 per night, it’s amazing value for money.
Next door, there’s Mook Koh Lanta, which is a lot more affordable at around $15.00 for a private room. However, keep in mind that it doesn’t have air conditioning.
A great hostel with plenty of common spaces to meet other travelers. Dorm room start from $11.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Clean and comfortable stay right in the main township. Private rooms start from $27.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A excellent option a short walk from the main road and a minute for the beach. Enjoy a clean and super nice hotel from $50.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A lovely eco resort a short walk away from the beach. Private bungalows start from $22.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
How To Travel From Koh Lanta To Koh Phi Phi
It’s super easy to travel from Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi thanks to all the ferries and speed boats. You’ll find numerous departures throughout the day and it’ll only take a couple of hours.
You can purchase your tickets once you arrive, or online in advance. If you would like to book in advance you can check out 12.Go Asia. I do recommend booking before arriving because tickets can sell out, especially in the high season.
Koh Phi Phi (Days 17–20)
Okay, if you love a party Koh Phi Phi is a must for on your 3 week Thailand itinerary. The island has become such a popular place to visit and is a highlight.
There’s plenty of day trips on offer and once night hits the whole island transforms into a massive party spot.
But, if I’m to be honest, since I’m not a big party person, Koh Phi Phi wasn’t my favorite. Though no stress if you’re the same and want something different.
Head to Koh Ngai for something a lil more luxe (I loved it here), or Koh Mook if you’d rather somewhere more local and affordable. Both are easy to get to from Koh Lanta and are a boat ride away from our last stop of Phuket.
Things To Do In Koh Phi Phi
In the daytime, you can explore the many beaches and at night be partying alongside fireshows with the sand under your feet. Grab a bucket and enjoy the blasting music, this is the typical audience Phi PhI caters for.
Make sure you visit the famous Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint. It is a bit touristy, but the walk isn’t too painful and the views from up here were some of my favorite from my whole time in Thailand.
Taking a tour Maya Bay is also a super popular thing to do here. Made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach this impressive island is quite a sight.
Highlights of Koh Phi Phi include:
- Hike the Phi Phi Viewpoints
- Check out Maya Bay on a snorkeling tour
- Party the night away
Where To Stay In Koh Phi Phi
Honestly Koh Phi Phi is a super compact island and you’ll find accommodation options are just a short walk away from everything.
However, what you do need to know about staying here is the hotels, resorts, and hostels are ALL crazy overpriced. Though, that’s typical overtourism and supply vs demand for you.
Nevertheless, I stayed at The One Hostel Phi Phi which is one of the most popular hostels on the island. The dorm rooms are great, and it’s far enough from the action you can get a peaceful sleep, but when you want to go out it’s only a couple minutes walk. Plus they have free fruit, cookies, juice, coffee, and water!
A recently opened hostel with spacious air-conditioned dorm rooms. Starting room $16.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A great option for solo travelers. Dorm with privacy curtains rooms start from $17.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A beautiful resort for just $20.00 per night. They offer budget rooms for travelers which are also air-conditioned. BOOK NOW |
![Saii Phi Phi Island Village](https://cf.bstatic.com/xdata/images/hotel/max1280x900/577065790.jpg?k=c928e06d5a49ef05cdf9a9f878926199725b627b3f7d23bfb99ac6f4d14766cb&o=&hp=1")
If you have a bit more money to spend why not check this out. From $100.00 per night for a 5 star resort. BOOK NOW |
How To Travel To Phuket From Koh Phi Phi
Once again it’s time to hit the water was you’ll need to take a boat from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket. Numerous ferries operate between the two, it should only take you a couple of hours and cost around $15.00.
Plus there are also the speedboats if you’re in more of a rush and don’t mind spending a little extra to get there quicker. Typically they’ll set you back around $25.00.
Once again, as this is a super popular route I recommend booking tickets in advance over on 12.Go Asia. This way you can make sure you travel with a reliable and comfortable boat company that puts safety first.
Phuket (Days 20–21)
Now the reason I have chosen to finish this trip in Phuket is that it’s the main travel hub to other destinations around Asia. You can easily catch a flight from the International Airport to Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and further afield.
The only thing to really be aware of is that the airport is a considerable distance from the main town. Make sure you leave enough Thai Baht for a taxi to the airport!
Things To Do In Phuket
Phuket isn’t my favorite, I find it way too touristy and pushy, especially in Patong. Basically what I’m saying is set your expectations.
Nevertheless if you do have some extra time here you can:
- Visit an elephant sanctuary
- Visit the Big Buddha for one of the best viewpoints on the island
- Wander around Phuket Old Town and admire the colorful buildings
- Spend the day at the best beaches in Phuket: Kata Beach, Karon Beach, or Nai Harn Beach
- Watch sunset from Promthep Cape
Where To Stay In Phuket
Phuket is a super spread out city and honestly, where you stay depends on what your plan is. If you are just following this itinerary and just staying 1 night then your best bet will be near the airport. This means you will be nice and close to your flight.
However, if you are planning to do a bit of exploration then you may instead prefer to stay in Phuket Town.
Lub D Phuket is a perfect option and it is a popular hostel chain in Southeast Asia so you know what standards are like. They offer daily activities for travelers and even put on a nightly pub crawl!
One of the best hostels in Phuket with great staff, comfortable beds, and an awesome vibe. Dorms start from $11.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Ther perfect glampacker hostel for those on a budget who enjoy a bit of luxe. Dorms here start from $25.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A very reputable chain brand providing great options for solo travelers and couples. Dorms start from $25.00 per night and private rooms start from $100.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A clean and modern hotel with a great pool which is close to the airport. Private rooms here start from $40.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Extend Your 3 Weeks In Thailand
Maybe you want to make the most of your time in Thailand and spend even longer here! Honestly, it’s a great country, actually one of my favorites, and there is so much more you can do to turn this 3 weeks in Thailand Itinerary into a longer trip.
However, just be aware of restrictions for how long you can stay. To be honest these can change quite often, and differ between countries so make sure you look into this before booking flights!
If you don’t have proof of onward travel many travelers including myself use Onward Ticket. The company books a legitimate ticket in your name so you can show the airlines and immgration staff! Then they’ll cancel it after 24 or 48 hours.
Slow Boat From Northern Thailand
The slow boat journey is one which I have done a few times now and I can say it’s not as bad as many people online say it is!
If you’re up North around Chiang Mai it’s easy enough to get a minivan to Chiang Khong or Huay Xai at the border and do the journey yourself. You can also visit the White Temple in Chiang Rai which makes for a pretty cool stop.
It’s a 2-day boat journey with an overnight stop in the small town of Pakbeng. The days are never as long as you are told and the car seats are surprisingly comfortable. Seriously the trip from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang on the slow boat is a true adventure and a must for backpackers.
By leaving the country and coming back this would also mean you days in Thailand restart so you could stay a little longer.
Pai
A few hours on twisty roads from Chiang Mai you will find the backpacker hang out of Pai. This is a super relaxed place set among nature.
I haven’t had the luck of visiting Pai yet, but I definitely will on my next visit to the North!
More Islands
There are so many islands other than those listed in this itinerary that you could visit if you have the time.
My top choices are:
- Koh Chang
- Koh Samui
- Koh Ngai
- Koh Yao Yai
- Koh Lipe
Koh Sok National Park
Lastly, you could also check out Koh Sok National Park as an add on to your Thailand itinerary. You can get there from Krabi, or a long travel day from Koh Phangan.
This national park is a highlight for many travelers where you can hike, explore the lake, and enjoy being out in the jungle.
The only reason I haven’t visited so far is that it’s a fair distance from other popular destinations making it quite the travel day.
FAQs About The Thailand Backpacking Route 3 Weeks
Is 3 weeks long enough for Thailand?
Yes 3 weeks is enough, but remember Thailand is huge so don’t expect to see it all. Though you’ll get a chance to see the highlights and maybe where you’d like to explore a bit more next time. Mix it up with a bit of beach, culture, and some cities and you’ll have an amazing time.
How much does it cost to spend 3 weeks in Thailand?
Honestly, the cost to travel Thailand depends entirely on your travel style. For example, I’ve backpacked Thailand for $23.00 per day staying in hostels and doing free activities, but I’ve also done it solo, spending $70.00 per day, staying in nice resorts and diving.
What is the best time to visit Thailand?
The best time to visit Thailand is definitely during the dry season between November and March. During this time, the weather is nice, with cooler temperatures, minimal rain, and lower humidity. This is also considered the peak tourist season in Thailand, so prices will be higher.
Wrap Up: The Ultimate Thailand Backpacking Itinerary
Awesome job getting to the end of my massive 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary! This route will give you a solid mix of Northern Thailand, temples, chaotic city days, island hopping, snorkeling, beach time, and just enough madness for a proper Southeast Asia adventure.
Of course, you can tweak this itinerary depending on the spots that take your fancy. Skip Phi Phi if you aren’t into partying, add Khao Sok if you want more nature, or slow things down and spend longer on fewer islands.
Though I must say, for a first trip to Thailand limited to just 3 weeks, this route is a pretty good way to see it and make sure you do it with no regrets!
Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.
Want more Northern Thailand Inspiration? Check out….
- 3 Weeks In Thailand Itinerary
- Cost To Travel Thailand & My Budget Of $23.00 Per Day
- Backpacking Thailand On A Budget Guide
- Best Hostels On Khao San Road
- How To Travel From Bangkok To Chiang Mai
- Taking The Overnight Sleeper Train From Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- Backpacking Bangkok Travel Guide
- 2 Days In Bangkok Itinerary
- Day Trip To Ayutthaya From Bangkok
- Traveling From Chiang Mai To Luang Prabang
- Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market Guide
- The Best Elephant Sanctuaries In Chiang Mai
- The Best Hostels In Chiang Mai
- 3 Days In Chiang Mai Itinerary
- Taking The Slow Boat To Laos From Thailand
- Chiang Mai Airport to The City Centre (Old City)
- Vegetarian Cooking Class In Chiang Mai
- Visiting The White Temple In Chiang Rai (Wat Rong Khun)
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Great itinerary. Thanks for the tips! I’ve been to Thailand several times, and all of these places are amazing. I haven’t visited Elephant Nature Park or other elephant sanctuaries yet. So it’s on my list. :)