Complete 10-day guide to Bangkok & Chiang Mai with Top attractions and Hidden Gems and Shopping

Day 1 starts at The Grand Palace at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore its stunning architecture. At 12:30 PM, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) to Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, spending 2 hours to admire its intricate details. Finally, at 3 PM, enjoy a 20-minute boat ride (~50 THB) to Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, allowing 1.5 hours to take in the riverside views.

Attractions

The Grand Palace

Experience the stunning architecture and rich history of the former royal residence, featuring the sacred Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew.

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan

Home to the famous reclining Buddha and renowned for its traditional Thai massage school, Wat Pho is a must-see cultural gem.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

Admire the stunning riverside temple known as the Temple of Dawn, famous for its striking central spire and panoramic views.

Start Day 2 at Chatuchak Weekend Market at 9 AM (allow 3 hours). Take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station (~30 THB, 30 min). Then, head to Jim Thompson House Museum at 12:30 PM (allow 2 hours) via taxi (~100 THB, 20 min). Finish at Bangkok Art & Culture Centre at 3 PM (allow 2 hours) with a short 10-minute taxi ride (~80 THB).

Attractions

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Explore one of the largest markets in the world, boasting thousands of stalls offering everything from clothing to food and art.

Jim Thompson House Museum

Discover the historic home of the American silk entrepreneur and the art and culture of traditional Thai architecture.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

Experience contemporary art and culture through exhibitions, performances, and events in this modern creative space.

Day 3 starts at Siam Paragon at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore shops and dining. At 12:30 PM, take a 10-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) to Thao Maha Brahma for a serene visit (~1 hour). Finally, at 2 PM, grab a 15-minute taxi (~120 THB) to Khaosan Road for local shops and street food, where you can unwind for 2 hours.

Attractions

Siam Paragon

Shop at this luxury shopping mall known for high-end brands, an impressive food court, and an underwater aquarium.

Thao Maha Brahma

Visit this famous shrine dedicated to Brahma, known for its elaborate ceremonies and the beauty of traditional Thai dance performances.

Khaosan Road

Dive into this vibrant street known for its lively nightlife, street food, and a mix of backpackers and locals.

Day 4 starts at Lumphini Park at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to enjoy the greenery. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) to Asiatique The Riverfront by 11 AM for shopping and lunch (2 hours). Afterward, head to Vimanmek Mansion at 1:30 PM, a quick 10-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) to explore the beautiful grounds for 2 hours. A balanced day mixing nature, shopping, and culture!

Attractions

Lumphini Park

Escape the city's hustle in this expansive park featuring beautiful greenery, lakes, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Asiatique The Riverfront

Enjoy a scenic night market along the riverside, featuring shops, dining, and entertainment, including a Ferris wheel.

Vimanmek Mansion

Explore the world's largest teak wood building, showcasing royal history and artifacts in a beautiful park setting.

Start Day 5 at Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore local food and crafts. Travel by taxi (~30 THB, 30 minutes) to Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan for a 90-minute visit at 11 AM. Enjoy a scenic stroll up the Golden Mount. Finally, head to Terminal 21 Asok at 1 PM via taxi (~50 THB, 20 minutes) for shopping and dining, allowing 2 hours to enjoy the unique themed floors.

Attractions

Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market

Experience a charming floating market featuring local food vendors and handmade crafts amidst lush greenery.

Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan

Climb to the top of this temple for panoramic views of Bangkok and a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature.

Terminal 21 Asok

A unique shopping mall themed like an airport, with each floor representing a major global city for a fun shopping experience.

Day 6 starts at Safari World at 9 AM - allow 3 hours for the entire experience. Take a taxi (about 30 minutes, ~THB 300) to King Power Mahanakhon, arriving around 12:30 PM for 90 minutes of stunning views. Finally, travel by taxi (approximately 15 minutes, ~THB 150) to the National Museum Bangkok for a 2-hour visit at 2:30 PM. All attractions are ordered by proximity to the city center.

Attractions

Safari World

Explore this urban zoo home to a variety of animals, beautiful grounds, and a lake, perfect for a family day out.

King Power Mahanakhon

Experience breathtaking views from Thailand's highest observation deck, located in the iconic MahaNakhon building.

National Museum Bangkok

Explore Thailand's rich history and culture through extensive collections of art and artifacts.

Start at Siam Discovery at 9 AM; allow 3 hours for shopping and dining. Next, take a 15-minute taxi (~100 THB) to Chatuchak Park at 12:30 PM; enjoy leisurely walks for 1.5 hours. Finally, head to Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market) at 2:30 PM; allow 1 hour to explore vibrant flowers and local culture. This itinerary balances activity and relaxation while keeping you close to the city center.

Attractions

Siam Discovery

A modern shopping complex featuring innovative stores and lifestyle brands.

Chatuchak Park

A large urban park ideal for leisure activities, walks, or a peaceful escape from the city.

Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)

A vibrant market offering a variety of flowers and plants, perfect for photography and local vibes.

Day 1 starts at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore this stunning temple. Take a 30-minute taxi ride (~300 THB) to reach the Old City by 11:30 AM - enjoy 3 hours wandering the historic streets and temples. Conclude your day at Nimmanahaeminda Road at 3 PM, a 15-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) for shopping and cafes.

Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Perched atop Doi Suthep mountain, this sacred temple offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience, embodying the essence of Northern Thai spirituality.

Old City

Explore ancient city walls, temples, and charming lanes, immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Chiang Mai's heritage.

Nimmanahaeminda Road

This trendy neighborhood is known for its chic cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife, making it a perfect spot for shopping and dining.

Day 2 starts at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~100 THB) to Wat Chedi Luang at 11:30 AM for 1.5 hours. End your day at Elephant Nature Park Office at 1:30 PM - a 15-minute taxi ride (~150 THB) for a 4-hour visit. Enjoy a balanced mix of shopping, culture, and nature!

Attractions

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant hub of handicrafts, food, and entertainment, the Night Bazaar is perfect for finding unique souvenirs while sampling local cuisine under the stars.

Wat Chedi Luang

This ancient temple houses the impressive remains of a former grand chedi, representing the magnificent Lanna architectural style and rich heritage.

Elephant Nature Park Office

A rescue and rehabilitation center for elephants, offering an ethical way to interact with these majestic creatures and learn about conservation efforts.

Day 3 starts at Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Travel to Huai Tueng Thao takes 15 minutes by taxi (~150 THB), arrive by 10:30 AM and enjoy for 2 hours. After, head to Waroros Market at 1 PM, a 10-minute taxi ride (~100 THB), and spend 1.5 hours sampling local foods and shopping. This itinerary offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and local market experience.

Attractions

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan

One of the most revered temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra Singh houses a beautiful assembly hall and features stunning Lanna architecture.

Huai Tueng Thao

A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for picnicking and enjoying the scenery, with local restaurants offering traditional Thai dishes.

Waroros Market

A bustling local market that offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce, clothes, and handicrafts, perfect for experiencing local culture.

Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

The Grand Palace

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10