20 Days in Thailand: What to do and see?

You have decided to visit Thailand in three weeks? Very good idea!

To help you organize your stay, I have prepared an ultra-complete 3-week itinerary in Thailand. You will discover many of the must-see places of interest in the land of smiles!

Starting from Bangkok, I suggest you go north via Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Then, for the second part of your vacation, fly south with a tour to Phuket, Koh Lanta, Krabi or Koh Yao Noi.

In addition to the day-to-day things to do, I also give you my selection of the best accommodations for each stage.

With my advice and tips, you will be able to organize your 20, 21 or 22 day Thailand itinerary super easily!

So, what to do and see in Thailand in 3 weeks?

Day 1-2: Bangkok

To visit Thailand in 20 or 21 days, you will land at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok.

To reach your hotel, 3 solutions:

• The cheapest and fastest: take the airport Rail Link (in the basement) which allows you to reach the city center every day with a departure every 15 minutes between 6 a.m. and midnight. Count only 45 Bahts to the terminus (Phaya Thaï station). If your hotel is not nearby, you can then take the skytrain (BTS), underground metro (MRT) or a taxi to finish the journey.
• Take a taxi (level 1 from the airport) for a fare between 250 and 450 Bahts depending on your destination and traffic jams. Do not accept a fixed price (advice valid everywhere in Thailand) but always ask the driver to switch on the meter. It can also be useful to have the address of your hotel written in Thai.
• Book a private transfer by clicking directly here! – The most practical solution if you do not wish to manage the question of transport by yourself.

Arrived at the hotel, quiet end of the day in order to be in shape to start your 20 days Thailand itinerary the next day.

Today, here is the program for this first day in Bangkok (in order of visit):

• The Grand Palace (500 Bahts) to admire all the sculptures and statues of the former residence of the sovereigns.
• Wat Pho (200 Bahts) and its largest reclining Buddha statue in the city: 45 meters long and 15 high!
• Wat Arun (100 Bahts) made up of several towers completely covered with colorful mosaics.
• The Siam Museum (300 Bahts) or the National Museum of Bangkok (200 Bahts): both retracing Thai history and culture but in a more playful version for the first, ideal to do with children.
• Khao San Road to browse the jewelry or souvenir shops and have a drink in one of the many bars.

And we conclude this first day in style with a cruise on the river, an essential activity to do to contemplate the illuminated monuments.

Spend the night in Bangkok.

The next day, continue your three-week stay in Thailand, with a stroll through Bangkok to visit other monuments and districts.

To do and see on this second day:

• Wat Saket (the temple of the golden mountain) whose terrace allows you to admire a 360° view of the city. 50 Baht.
• Chinatown (Chinese quarter) where Wat Traimit is located and its golden Buddha statue weighing no less than 5.5 tons.
• Lumphini Park, the ideal place for a bucolic walk, far from noise and crowds.
• The Siam district for shopping in one of the huge ultra modern shopping centers
• At the end of the day, climb to the top of the Bayoke tower. Unstoppable view of the entire illuminated city! Tickets can be reserved in advance here.
• On the same principle, you also have  the King Power Mahanakhon  which is currently  the highest observation platform  in Thailand. Tickets are on sale here!
• Or for a little more action, you can end the day with a muay thai boxing match, the national sport. Tickets on sale right here.

Spend another night in Bangkok.

All the details on the places not to be missed in Bangkok are in our article: 3 Days in Bangkok with Recommemded Itinerary

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

During your entire 3-week Thailand itinerary , you will need to have your legs and shoulders covered to visit the temples. Valid for ladies but also sometimes for gentlemen. Plan one or 2 shawls to cover yourself. If you forget, you can borrow some at the entrance or buy some for 100 Bahts anywhere in the area.

To visit the 3 main tourist attractions of Bangkok (Grand Palace + Wat Pho + Wat Arun), it is worth taking a guided tour because there are not really any historical explanations about the places. You can book it directly by clicking here.

Accommodation in Bangkok

The best hotels near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho:

• D Hostel Bangkok: Hostel located near the temples and 5 min from Khao San Road. Bed in dormitory from 20€. Most: the location to visit the temples on foot, cleanliness, modern decor. Ideal for small budgets!
• Rambuttri Village Plaza: Located 1.5 km from the Grand Palace and 300 m from Khao San Road. Pleasant and bright double room from €30 per night, breakfast included. Most: the location, the swimming pools on the roof.
• Baan Wanglang Riverside, Bangkok: Hotel located on the opposite bank of the Grand Palace, 5 minutes by shuttle bus. Spacious double room with a view of the river from €50. The pluses: the splendid view of the river, the rooftop, the proximity to the 3 main temples.
• Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel: Brand new hotel, 10 minutes walk from the Grand Palace and 1 km from the National Museum. Warm and comfortable room with balcony from €70, breakfast included. Most: the setting, the comfort of the beds, the very helpful staff, the swimming pool. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio in the vicinity of the Grand Palais!
• Inn a day: Located 600 meters from the Grand Palace. Room with original and atypical decoration, in the industrial style, from 100€, breakfast included. Most: the magnificent view of the river and Wat Arun, the excellent breakfast, the design.
• Chakrabongse Villas: Located on the banks of the river, only 15 min walk from Wat Pho. Room and suite with oriental but modern decoration, from €170, breakfast included. Most: the breathtaking view of Wat Arun, the excellent geographical location, the swimming pool. This is our recommendation for a romantic stay in Bangkok!

The best hotels in Bangkok that are quiet and close to the metro for easy travel:

• Bangkok Patio: It is located 10 minutes walk from the BTS Skytrain. Super spacious, modern studios and apartments with equipped kitchen and balcony from €40 per night. Most: the swimming pool, the calm, the geographical location. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio! Also ideal for a family stay.
• Noursabah Boutique Bed Bangkok: Located 500 meters from the BTS and the Airport Rail Link (direct line to the airport). Well decorated room with a super comfortable bed from €50 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: calm, comfort, provision of food (noodle, yogurt, cereals), water, fruit juice 24 hours a day, super convenient for going to the airport.
• Anajak Bangkok Hotel: Located 5 minutes from the metro and the Airport Rail Link. Cozy and very comfortable double room from €75 per night, breakfast included. Most: the quiet location, the swimming pool, the style of the rooms. An excellent choice for visiting Bangkok or reaching the airport at the end of your stay in just 30 minutes.
• Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn: Located a few steps from the metro. Spacious room with large bay window overlooking the buildings from €115, breakfast included. Most: the standard of the hotel, the infinity pool, the breakfast at the top, the direct access to the metro. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Bangkok!
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Luxury hotel with direct access to Siam Paragon Mall and BTS. Elegant and contemporary room from €230, breakfast included. Most: the large swimming pools and the garden, the jacuzzi, the Spa, the excellent breakfast. The best hotel to stay in Bangkok for a luxury stay!

Day 3: Ayutthaya

A three-week Thailand itinerary wouldn’t be complete without visiting Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it includes several ancient temples, built when Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam.

To go to Ayutthaya from Bangkok, you will have the choice between several means of transport to cover the 75 km:

• By car: the fastest way with only 45 minutes drive. If you rent it at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, it is also super practical because it is directly on the way.

I advise you to take it until the end of your vacation in the North, that is to say until Chiang Rai (step 5). This is the option we chose and we did not regret it: the roads are in excellent condition, all in a straight line and bordered by numerous petrol stations.

• By train: with a train ticket at only 15 Bahts for a 2 hour journey, this is the cheapest solution.
• By bus: 1h30 at 50 Bahts
• By minivan:  1 hour at 70 Bahts.

To visit Ayutthaya and have all the information you need to organize this day, it’s super simple, I recommend that you read my article entirely dedicated to the park by clicking here: Complete 1 Day Ayutthaya Itinerary

The prices, timetables, temples to see, the map and many more useful and practical details will allow you to know everything!

Spend a night in Ayutthaya.

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

If you rent a car, don’t be surprised to come across police roadblocks several times at the exits from towns.

Keep your passport, international license and car papers nearby in case you are stopped for a check.

Accommodation in Ayutthaya

• Early Bird Hostel Ayutthaya: Hostel located 700 meters from Wat Mahathat. Dormitory bed from €7, breakfast included. Most: lovely staff, cleanliness, privacy thanks to the curtain. Ideal for backpackers!
• Baan Baimai Boutique Room: Located 1.7 km from Wat Mahathat or 5 minutes by car. Spacious and well-decorated double room from €27. Most: calm, decor, private parking. An excellent choice where to stay cheap in Ayutthaya!
• PU Inn Resort: Located 5 minutes from the bus station and 10 minutes from Mahathat temple. Comfortable and colorful double room from 45€. Most: the swimming pool, the central location, the warm welcome.
• Baan Thai House: Located 1.4 km from Wat Yai Chai Mongkon. Spacious villa with balcony and garden or lake view from €60, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the exteriors, the good meals, the setting, the calm.
• Classic Kameo Hotel & Serviced Apartments, Ayutthaya: Located 5 minutes drive from Yai Chai Mongkon Temple. Double room with kitchenette and lounge area, modern and spacious, from €75, breakfast included. The pluses: the equipment, the comfort, the swimming pool, the Spa.
• Sala Ayutthaya: Located 1.6 km from the historical park and Wat Chai Watthanaram. Modern double room with exposed red bricks from €140, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the view of the river and the temples, the quality of the catering, the design of the hotel. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Ayutthaya!

Day 4-5: Sukhothai

We continue this 3-week Thailand itinerary by going up to the North. Now I suggest you go to Sukhothai, 350 km from Ayutthaya.

Considering the distance, the best is to plan a day to make the trip, regardless of the means of transport you choose:

• Driving time is approximately 5 hours on a 2 or more lane highway in very good condition.
• By bus: from Ayutthaya bus station allow 6 hours for 300 Bahts per person. Several departures during the day.
• By train: Sukhothai does not have a railway station, the trip is done in 2 steps: Train to Phitsalunok (4 h / 700 Bahts) + Bus from Phitsalunok to Sukhothai (1h / 50 Bahts).

Spend the night in Sukhothai.

The next day, it will be time to discover Sukhothai Historical Park.

The first capital of the Kingdom of Siam (before Ayutthaya took over from it) also has several beautiful temples to see and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To help you plan this visit, I have prepared a very complete guide with all the answers to the questions you may have:

• What is the price and hours?
• What are the temples to see?
• How long to visit Sukhothai?
• What is the history of the park?

You can read it by clicking here: Practical information for visiting Sukhothai.

Spend a second night in Sukhothai.

Accommodation in Sukhothai

• Vieng Tawan Sukhothai Guesthouse by Thai Thai:  Located 1.5 km from the historical park. Warm and comfortable double room from €20, breakfast at €4. Most: the swimming pool, the calm, the reception. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Sukhothai!
• Thai Thai Sukhothai Guesthouse:  Located 1.5 km from the park. Traditionally decorated double room with wooden furniture and view of the garden from €30, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the very warm welcome, the charm of the establishment.
• Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort:  Located 1.5 km from the historical site of Sukhothai. Spacious bungalow, with Thai decor, wooden floors and furniture, from €40, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool and the really super nice exteriors, the calm, the bike rental and the location for visiting the park. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio!
• Sriwilai Sukhothai:  Located 1.8 km from the park. Spacious and bright double room with balcony overlooking the rice fields from €80, breakfast included. Most: the superb setting, the large infinity pool, the Spa, the calm, the attentive staff.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Sukhothai!

Day 6-8: Chiang Mai

During the fourth stage of this three-week circuit in Thailand, I suggest you reach the capital of northern Thailand: Chiang Mai.

To cover the 300 km that separates you from it, you can take:

• Your rental car: 4h30 drive, always in a straight line and in good condition.
• The bus from Sukhothai bus station: 6 hours / 300 Bahts
• The train: first go to Phitsalunok by bus (1 hour / 50 Bahts) and from there take the train to Chiang Mai (6 to 8 hours / 100 to 600 Bahts depending on the category of seats).

As a result, here too I advise you to count a day’s journey between Sukhothai and Chiang Mai. Afterwards, nothing prevents you from going for a walk in the old town if you don’t arrive too late!

Spend a first night in Chiang Mai.

On the second day, I recommend that you visit the old town of Chiang Mai, famous for its many temples:

• Wat Phra Singh. Free admission.
• Wat Chedi Luang. Entrance at 40 baht.
• Le Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang. Free.
• The Monument to the 3 Kings
• One of the 3 museums on the history of the city : the cultural center, the history center and the Lanna folk art museum.
• And Wat Chiang Man
• Warorot market
• Wat Saen Fang, Wat Buppharam and Wat Mahawan.  Only the Buppharam temple is paying: 20 Bahts.

End up taking a trip to the Night Bazaar (weekdays) or the Saturday or Sunday evening market during the weekend. This is the perfect opportunity to start buying some souvenirs to bring back from your twenty-day stay in Thailand and especially to taste the excellent Thai street food.

If you want to take advantage of your evening to  walk the aisles of the Chiang Mai market in the company of a guide  and  taste the best Thai dishes, I recommend that you  book this activity by clicking here!

Spend a second night in Chiang Mai.

On the third day in Chiang Mai, you have the choice between several activities according to your desires:

1) Visit Doi Suthep National Park to discover:

• The temple of Doi Suthep (40 Bahts) which offers a panorama of the whole province.
• The gardens of Bhubing Palace (50 Bahts), place of residence of the royal family in winter.
• A Hmong village, an ethnic group from northern Thailand. There are several stalls selling souvenirs and a landscaped garden (10 Bahts).
• La cascade de Mon Tha Than
• La cascade de Huay Kaew

To travel the only road in the park, it is better to have a car or rent a scooter. If you take the song taew (collective taxi) from the old town of Chiang Mai, you have to wait until they fill up each time to leave.

For those who prefer to go through an organized tour for this day, it is possible, just click here to book.

2) Go see the elephants in a refuge.

No walking on their backs, you will spend time feeding them or washing them in the company of the trainers.

Only a small number of visitors are allowed each day so as not to disturb the animals too much, so remember to book this activity in advance.

3) To stay in the typical, you can take a cooking class in Chiang Mai.

The region is renowned for offering the best courses of this kind. You can even go to the market with the chef to do your shopping before returning home to cook delicious dishes. Pad Thais or curries will have no more secrets for you!

Provided you find the ingredients at home, you can even redo the recipes thanks to the booklet provided at the end of the course.

Spend one last night in Chiang Mai.

Do not hesitate to read my article on the city to have even more ideas: Top 20 things to do in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation in Chiang Mai

The best hotels in Chiang Mai leave very quickly so remember to book as far in advance as possible!

• HOSTEL by BED: Hostel located 500 meters from Wat Phra Sing and the Sunday market. Bed in modern and clean dormitory from 10€ per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the cleanliness of both the rooms and the common areas, the full and good breakfast, unlimited bottles of water. This is the best cheap accommodation to stay in Chiang Mai. Ideal for backpackers.
• Wing Bed: Located in the Old City, 800 meters from Wat Chedi Luang. Comfortable and warm double room from €35 per night, breakfast included. Most: brand new establishment, the ideal location, the excellent welcome. It is our favorite for its price / performance ratio in Chiang Mai!
• Pingviman Hotel: Located 10 minutes from the weekend market and 700 meters from Wat Phra Sing. Thai-style double room with carved wooden furniture, spa bath and balcony, from €80, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the traditional decoration, the perfect geographical location, the comfort.
• 99 The Heritage Hotel: Located in the pedestrian street of the Sunday evening market. Double room with neat decoration and very comfortable bedding from €135, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the caring staff, the location, the free mini bar and the fruit and cakes available all day. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Chiang Mai!
• Chala Number6: 5* hotel located 200 meters from Wat Chedi Luang, in the historic center. This luxury hotel offers spacious and very comfortable rooms from €190, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool and the garden, the lovely staff, the charm of the hotel, the snack offered every day. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay!

Day 9-11: Chiang Rai

Continuation of this 20-day Thailand itinerary. Today, after these 3 days in Chiang Mai, I suggest you join the second most famous city in the North: Chiang Rai.

How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

• By car: to cover the 200 km between the 2 cities, count 3h30.
• By bus: about 3h30 too.
• No train journey possible, there is no station in Chiang Rai.

Arrived in Chiang Rai at the beginning of the afternoon, you will have time to take a walk in the city to discover some essentials:

• Wat Phra Kaew, the temple where the Emerald Buddha statue was discovered, now on display in the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The one in Chiang Rai is a copy made a little later.
• Golden clock tower
• Wat Ming Meuang
• Wat Phra Sing
• Wat Klang Wiang
• Wat Jet Yot
• The HillTribe Museum on the history of mountain ethnic groups in northern Thailand.
• The Oub Kham museum  and its superb collection of objects from the Lanna kingdom. Compulsory guided tour.

In the evening, I recommend you go to the Night Bazaar where you can walk the aisles in search of souvenirs. It is also the ideal place to eat, there are many food stalls.

Spend a first night in Chiang Rai.

On the second day in Chiang Rai, I suggest you start by visiting one of the essentials of this 3-week vacation in Thailand! Direction the most popular tourist site of the city: the white temple (Wat Rong Khun).

This temple, whose construction only began in 1997, is today one of the best known in the whole country. And for good reason, with its walls covered in white lime and shards of mirror, and its magnificent sparkling sculptures, it is really very impressive.

The best is to plan to go there early in the morning because there are crowds. Entrance at 50 Baht.

For the rest of the day, I then propose (in order):

• A short walk to see the Khun Korn waterfall. Free.
• A passage through Singha Park to photograph the tea plantations and take a selfie with the park’s emblem: a large golden lion statue. Free.
• To discover Wat Huay Pla Klang, a set of 3 really impressive temples including a white temple, a large pagoda and above all a huge sparkling statue of the goddess of compassion nicknamed the Big Buddha. Free, except 40 Bahts if you want to climb to the top of the statue.
• The visit of the blue temple, the other emblematic temple not to be missed in Chiang Rai. Free.

Spend a second night in Chiang Rai.

For your third day in Chiang Rai, you can:

• Visit the Baan Dam Museum (80 Bahts) or black house museum, a set of houses decorated in a very original and somewhat gloomy way with fur, bones, crocodile skins…
• Discover the Doi Tung where you will find the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a very large beautifully landscaped garden, and the Doi Tung Royal Villa, residence of the Princess Mother of Thailand. Pass at 220 Bahts to visit everything + a supplement if you want to do a zipline descent on the site.
• Take a road trip on the road between Doi Tung and Mae Salong to admire the splendid landscape
• Take the opportunity to stroll around the Mae Salong market

Then return to Chiang Rai for one last night.

All the details on these different things to do and see in Chiang Rai are in our article: Ultimate 3 Days Chiang Rai Itinerary. 

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

For these 3 days in Chiang Rai, I strongly recommend that you rent a car (if you haven’t already). All the sites to see are quite far away and for the most part impossible to reach them by public transport.

The car remains the most practical way to see everything. Otherwise, you can also hire a driver for the day. Your hotel will surely have someone to recommend you.

Accommodation in Chiang Rai

• Connect Hostel: Hostel located 10 minutes from the night market and the bus station. Bed in modern dormitory and with bunk with curtain from 10€. Most: cleanliness, modern and really nice common areas, comfortable beds, very nice staff. This is the best hostel to stay in Chiang Rai. Ideal for backpackers and if you are looking for a cheap hotel.
• Na-Rak-O Resort: Located 600 meters from the Clock Tower and the temples to see in Chiang Rai. Double room with colorful decor and a very comfortable bed from €21. Most: the availability of staff, provision of a kitchen for breakfast, peace and quiet. An excellent choice where to sleep cheap in Chiang Rai!
• Nak Nakara Hotel: Located 2 minutes walk from the HillTribe Museum and Park. Double room tastefully decorated in the traditional Lanna style from €60, breakfast included. Most: the large swimming pool, the free shuttle to the Night Bazaar, the comfort of the rooms, the geographical location. It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio!
• The Riverie by Katathani: 5-star hotel located 800 meters from Wat Phra Sing and 1 km from the night market, on the banks of the river. Modern, luxurious and spacious double room from €100, breakfast included. Most: the huge swimming pool, playground for children, the view of the river, the jacuzzi, the tennis court. If you are looking for a high end hotel in Chiang Rai, this is the best choice!
• Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand: 5-star resort located 3 km from the night market. Elegant, design and spacious double room from €105, breakfast at €14. Most: the really beautiful outdoor spaces, the swimming pool, the Spa, the location by the river, the calm, free shuttle to the city center. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Chiang Rai!

Day 12-14: Phuket

You have arrived at the second part of this 20-day Thailand itinerary, it is time to leave the North and all its temples to enjoy some of the splendid islands and beaches in the South of the country!

From Chiang Rai, go to the international airport to fly to Phuket. After 2 hours of flight and a short taxi or bus ride to reach your hotel, you can go relax at Patong beach, for example.

On the program: swimming, lazing around and maybe a little parasailing or towed buoy if you fancy a bit of action.

At the end of the day, take a stroll on Bangla Road, the busiest street on the island.

In the surroundings and according to your tastes, you will have the choice between ending the evening with:

• A ladyboy show (those men made up and dressed like women). All these kinds of shows are not equal, the most famous is undoubtedly that of the Simon Cabaret. Places must be reserved in advance by clicking here.
• A muay thai boxing match. I had already offered you this activity for Bangkok, if you haven’t had time to go there it’s the opportunity to catch up. Tickets on sale right here!

Spend the night in Phuket.

Second day in Phuket, rent a scooter and go exploring. You can choose to focus on the East or South area of ​​the island.

To see East of Phuket:

• Phuket Town: Thalang Street, Colorful Houses, Phang Nga Road, Thai Hua Museum or Phuket Museum.
• Monkey Hill which is home to colonies of monkeys and whose summit offers a panorama of the island
• Khao Rang Hill, a famous viewpoint in Phuket

Finish the afternoon on one of the beaches.

On the south side, you can discover:

• Wat  Chalong (free)
• The  Big Buddha (free)
• Le Karon View Point
• La plage de  Nai Harn Beach
• Windmill  Viewpoint  and  Yanui Beach
• The Promthep Cape at sunset

If you want to go out at night, I recommend you go see the Siam Niramit show where a troupe of actors and dancers retrace the history of Thailand in several scenes.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

For this  day in Phuket, if you don’t feel like renting a scooter, you can also choose to visit Phuket with an excursion with transport and guide  included.

The program of places to see is very complete : the old town, the Chalong temple, the Big Buddha and the Karon viewpoint.

Click here to book this organized excursion in Phuket!

Today, for your last day in Phuket, I suggest you take a boat trip.

There are several from the island, but I specifically recommend 2 (the choice is yours):

• An excursion to Koh Phi Phi to discover the most famous island in the whole country and other equally beautiful places like Bamboo Island or Khai Island.

This trip to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket is also available in a  luxury version on a magnificent catamaran. Click here to book!

• An excursion to the Similan Islands regularly ranked among the top of the most beautiful diving spots in the world.

Spend one last night in Phuket.

For even more information about your stay in Phuket, I invite you to read my other article: Top Things to Do in Phuket

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

If you can’t choose between the 2 boat trips on the last day, you can also do one on Day 2 instead of discovering the island by scooter.

Accommodation in Phuket

If you want to be in the heart of the action, I have prepared a selection of accommodation for you near Patong:

• Lub d Phuket Patong: Hostel 5 min from Patong Beach and 10 min from Bangla Road. Bed in modern and very clean dormitory from 12€. Most: the huge swimming pool, the common areas with even a boxing ring, the design, the cleanliness. This is the best hostel to stay in Phuket!
• Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 min from the night market and 10 min from Bangla Road. Design and spacious double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Most: the swimming pool, the location, the comfort of the rooms. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio in Patong.
• Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Most: the outdoor facilities, the swimming pool, the welcome and the friendliness of the staff.
• Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 3 km from Patong, right on the beach of Tri-Trang. Warm and comfortable double room with balcony or private terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Most: location at the edge of the water, the private beach, the calm, the playground for the children, the setting. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Phuket!

If you prefer to stay in Phuket Town, here is my selection of hotels:

• Baan Baan hostel: Hostel located in the old town of Phuket. Bed in dormitory from 8€, breakfast included. Most: very helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm. The best hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 meters from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Most: location, cleanliness, friendly staff.
• The Malika Hotel: Located 1.8 km from the old town. Double room with very comfortable bedding and balcony from €38, breakfast €6. Most: the swimming pool, the calm, the pleasant staff, the ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio in Phuket Town!
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Tastefully decorated double room from €50 per night, breakfast €7. Most: excellent location, the friendliness of the staff, the setting, next to the night market.
• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 km from the old town. Super spacious double room, design and modern from 85€, breakfast at 15€. Most: the setting, the comfort, ideal for visiting the old town, close to the boat for the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!

Day 15-17: Koh Lanta

For the next leg of this three-week trip to Thailand, head to another southern island: Koh Lanta.

To get there from Phuket you have to take the boat to the port of Rassada, towards Phuket Town. Ask your hotel to book the tickets for the crossing, it is generally cheaper than making the reservation on the Internet (instead of 1000 Bahts, we paid 700 with transfer to the port included).

The boat trip is done in 2 stages: a boat for Koh Phi Phi (2h30) and another from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta (1h15).

If you prefer  to take a single boat, it is also possible to make the trip by speedboat but there are not a lot of places. For this transfer, it is therefore better to book well in advance. You have the information by clicking here!

To reach your hotel transfers are offered during the crossing, they do not cost more than once on Koh Lanta.

In the afternoon, relax on one of the island’s beaches or near your accommodation.

Spend the night in Koh Lanta.

The next day, I suggest you take the essential boat trip of Koh Lanta, that of the 4 islands or 4 islands in English. As its name suggests, it allows you to discover 4 small surrounding islands, each as pretty as the next.

And the top is that on each there are planned swimming and snorkeling stops.

The transfer to the port from your hotel, the day by boat with snorkeling equipment and lunch  are included in the price of approximately 1000 Bahts per person.

For your last day on Koh Lanta, you can take another really cool boat trip, the one to Koh Rok.

The principle is the same as for the previous excursion except that there is only one island on the program. Everything is also included in the price of 1700 Bahts per person.

You can book by clicking here.

If you prefer to stay on Koh Lanta, no problem, you will have the choice between different activities:

• Kayak tour in the mangroves
• First dive with one of the many certified centers on the island
• Traditional Thai Cooking Class at Cooking with Mon
• Exploration of the caves of Khao Kaew Caves and/or Tiger Cave
• Discovery of Mu Koh Lanta National Park: possible to do a nature trail or just enjoy the beach
• Walk in the old town

I explain everything in detail in my article dedicated to Koh Lanta: Itinerary with Top Things to Do in Koh Lanta

Spend one last night on the island.

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

A tiny roadside restaurant that I recommend you absolutely try on Koh Lanta is Sai Nat. It is located towards Klong Toab Beach and offers several really delicious and homemade Thai or Indian dishes .

Absolutely try the cheese naans!

Accommodation in Koh Lanta

• Hub of Joys Hostel: Hostel located 350 meters from Long Beach. Bed in clean and pleasant dormitory from 6€ per night, breakfast included. Most: the smiling staff, the location 5 minutes from the beach, the good breakfast. This is the cheapest accommodation on Koh Lanta! Ideal for backpackers.
• Long Beach Chalet: Located directly on Long Beach Beach. Bright and comfortable bungalow from €25 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the direct access to the beach.
• SriLanta Resort: Located on Klong Nin Beach. Thai-style villa with terrace overlooking the garden from €35, breakfast €10. The pluses: the 3 swimming pools, the setting, the ideal location for going to the beach, the comfort. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio!
• Kaw Kwang Beach Resort: Located at Klong Dao Beach. Pleasant and spacious double room from €50, breakfast included. Most: the view of the sea, the very calm and accessible beach, the swimming pool, the landscaped garden, the free return transfer to the port.
• Rawi Warin Resort And Spa: 5 star hotel located 400 meters from Klong Nin Beach. Modern Thai style double room with wooden furniture and balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pools, the playground for children, the view, the competent staff, the hearty and varied breakfast. Ideal for a top-of-the-range romantic getaway!
• Pimalai Resort & Spa: 5 star hotel located 200 meters from the Kantiang Beach. Very spacious and tastefully decorated double room from €210, breakfast included. Most: the splendid infinity pool, the attentive staff, the location, the view, the excellent breakfast. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Koh Lanta!

Day 18-20: Krabi or Koh Yao Noi

For the last stage of this 3-week circuit in Thailand, I suggest that you end in style with one of the following choices: Krabi or Koh Yao Noi.

Koh Yao Noi is preferred if you are looking for peace and quiet while Krabi is more touristy.

Option 1: Krabi (3 days)

From Koh Lanta to Krabi, allow 2h30 by boat at a cost of around 350 Bahts per person (hotel-port transfer included).

Arrived in Krabi, I suggest you join Ao Nang, the main seaside resort of the province and where you will stay for the next 3 nights. You can thus spend the quiet afternoon at the beach of Ao Nang or on that of Nopparat Thara, a little wilder.

The next day, spend the day on the Railay Peninsula, accessible by boat from Ao Nang in just 10 minutes (200 Baht per person).

Railay has 2 superb beaches with fine sand and turquoise water: Railay West beach (where you arrive with the boat) and Phra Nang Beach, a 15-minute walk from the first.

Between 2 swims, you can also rent kayaks or paddles, or even take a climbing lesson. With nearly 700 climbing routes, Railay is indeed one of the best places in Thailand to practice this sport.

To be sure to do this activity safely, I advise you to book it directly by clicking here.

The bravest can also tackle the climb to the Railay viewpoint. 15-20 minutes of climbing using ropes and you can contemplate the panorama of the entire peninsula.

On the last day, I suggest you take a final boat trip with snorkeling and swimming. 

The most famous of Krabi is that of the 4 islands (same name as that of Koh Lanta but the islands to see are different).

Read our Krabi article for all the things to do: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Krabi.

And that’s the end of your 3 week stay in Thailand . The next day, head to Krabi airport to catch your return flight.

For those who prefer to visit Koh Yao Noi instead of Krabi, the rest is further down in the article!

Accommodation in Krabi / Ao Nang

• The Moment Hostel: Hostel located 10 min walk from Ao Nang beach. Bed in dormitory from 10€. Most: the lovely staff, the situation.
• Cocco House: Located 1.5 km from Nopparat Beach. Very clean and quiet bungalow from 30€ per night, breakfast included. Most: the excellent breakfast, the loan of bicycles, the good bedding. It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio in Ao Nang.
• Wake Up Aonang Hotel: Located just steps from the beach. Double room with large bay windows and sea view from €50. Most: the location 2 minutes from the beach and all the restaurants, the swimming pool, the comfort.
• Phu Pha Aonang Resort & Spa: Located 800 m from Ao Nang Beach. Room all in wood and parquet floors with patio from 75€, breakfast included. The pluses: the lush garden, the view of the cliff, the swimming pool, the free shuttle to town. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Ao Nang.
• The Nine Thipthara Klongson Resort: Located 5 km from the sea. Very spacious and tastefully decorated villa, with Spa bath, from 220€, breakfast included. Most: the environment, the swimming pool, the superb rooms. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Ao Nang. The best place to spend a romantic vacation!

Option 2: Koh Yao Noi (3 days)

From Koh Lanta, you can also choose to finish this recommended itinerary for 3 weeks in Thailand by the island of Koh Yao Noi.

To get there you will have to take a first boat to Krabi (2h30 / 350 Bahts) then a second to Koh Yao Noi (30 min / 300 Bahts per person). Arrived at the port, a taxi will take you to your hotel for 100 Bahts.

You can spend the afternoon on one of the beaches or at the swimming pool.

Spend a night in Koh Yao Noi.

For the next 2 days on the island, you will have the choice between several activities:

• The 4 islands boat trip (and yes again it’s the same name!) – 2500 Bahts per boat, to be divided between the number of people
• Excursion to Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island and Koh Panyee – 4500 Bahts per boat, always to be shared between passengers
• Rent a kayak
• Take a walk at low tide
• Discover the neighboring island of Koh Yao Yai, even less touristy

All information about excursions and things to do on Koh Yao Noi can be found in my article: Visiting Koh Yao Noi.

The next day, after 3 days on the island, you will have to go to the airport to catch your return flight. From Koh Yao Noi, you can just as easily fly to Krabi or Phuket. It’s up to you to see what suits you the most.

Tips for your Thailand itinerary:

If you have decided to visit Thailand in 22 days, then add a day in the South.

Accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

• Tha Khao Bay View: Located on the east of the island. Simple bungalow with fan from 25€ per night. Most: the incredible view of the sea, the location in the middle of nature, the kindness of the owners. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Koh Yao Noi!
• Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow: Located by the sea, 15 min by song taew from the port. Very spacious bungalow with double bed and private terrace overlooking the swimming pool or the sea, from 45€ per night. Most: the beach next door, the calm, the swimming pool, the restaurant really cheap, hearty and delicious. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio!
  
• Paradise KohYao: Located in the North of the island. Tastefully decorated room with bathroom open to the outside and private terrace from €95, breakfast included. Most: the idyllic setting, the infinity pool, the private beach, the location in the bay.
• Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi: Located in the southeast of the island. Spacious and bright double room with very neat decoration, from €150 per night, breakfast included. Most: the design, the calm, the dream setting, the welcoming staff. A very nice hotel in Koh Yao Noi, ideal for a romantic getaway!
• Laguna Villas Yao Noi: Located in the southeast of the island, right by the beach. Pretty fully equipped villas, perfect mix between modern and traditional Thai style from 200€ per night, breakfast included. Most: the location facing the sea, the large swimming pool, close to excellent restaurants.
• Six Senses Yao Noi: This is the most luxurious hotel on the whole island. It offers splendid villas with private pools and even a butler who will be assigned to you for the entire duration of your stay. From €570, breakfast included. The pluses: the Spa, the gym, the private beach, the comfort, the excellent meals, the exceptional service. This is clearly the finest luxury hotel on Koh Yao Noi. A dream place to spend your honeymoon or a romantic getaway!

If you have any questions to organize your 3 week itinerary in Thailand, do not hesitate to ask me in the comments.

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