Itinerary: One Month in Thailand – Best Places to Visit + Tips

You’re planning to spend one month in Thailand for your next trip?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 1 month itinerary in Thailand.

During your 30-31 days trip, you will visit the best of Thailand, starting with Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

The second part of your holiday will then take you to the Southern Islands to discover Phuket, Koh Lanta, Krabi and Koh Yao Noi.

In addition to the best places to visit for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, how to spend a month in Thailand? Where to go and where to stay?

1) Bangkok (3 days)

For this 1 month trip to Thailand, you must begin with Bangkok, the country’s capital.

Arriving at the Suvarnabhumi airport, you have 2 options to reach your hotel:

• The Airport Rail Link, which connects the airport to the city centre for only 45 Bahts and avoids all traffic jams. Departure every 15 minutes between 6am and midnight. It is very practical and also has underground (MRT) and BTS (elevated metro) connections, making it easy to get to most of the hotels (you might have to end up taking a taxi if you’re staying in the historical centre). This is the quickest and cheapest solution.
• Taxis: between 250 and 450 Bahts depending on your destination and especially traffic conditions. Ask the driver to set the meter and never accept a set fare. Also, show him the address of your hotel in Thai to avoid mistakes.
• Book private transport by clicking here! From 1070 baht (€30 for 2).

Spend a quiet evening and your first night in Bangkok to recover from jet lag.

Here are the places to go on the first full day in Bangkok:

• The Grand Palace: former residence of the monarchs – 500 Bahts
• Wat Pho and its famous sleeping Buddha – 200 Bahts
• Wat Arun, entirely covered with mosaics – 50 Bahts
• The Siam Museum (300 Bahts) or the Bangkok National Museum (200 Bahts), both showcase the history of Thailand, but the Siam museum does so in a more playful and less classical manner.
• Khao San Road for its shops, atmosphere and bars.

And there is nothing better than to end this day with a cruise and dinner on the river to admire Bangkok’s most famous illuminated monuments.

You can book directly by clicking the button below:

If you prefer a more romantic version, you should opt for this dinner cruise on board an old rice barge:

Agenda for the second day in Bangkok:

• Wat Saket for its panoramic terrace – 50 Bahts
• Chinatown and Wat Traimit for its 5.5 ton gold Buddha statue
• Lumpini park for a quiet moment away from the crowds
• The Siam district and its huge, ultra-modern shopping centres
• The Bayoke tower to admire Bangkok at night. Tickets to access the panoramic platform can be booked here.
• Or the King Power Mahanakhon which is now the highest observation deck in Thailand. Tickets available here!
• Sports lovers may prefer to watch a Muay Thai boxing match, the national sport of Thailand. Tickets available here.

For the last day in Bangkok, if it’s the weekend, you must visit Chatuchak market. The largest market in Thailand has no less than 15,000 various stands: clothes, jewellery, and souvenirs galore. And of course, there are plenty of food stalls too!

If you would rather visit the areas nearby Bangkok, you can opt for a day trip. There are 2 very popular options:

• The Damnoen Saduak floating market for a boat ride on the klongs among the stalls. You can book it here.
• A day in Kanchanaburi where the infamous Kwai River Bridge is located. Book by clicking here.

You will find all the details to visit Bangkok and its surroundings in our detailed article: The best things to do in Bangkok?

Accommodation in Bangkok

The best hotels near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho:

• D Hostel Bangkok: Youth hostel located near the temples and 5 minutes on foot from Khao San Road. Dormitory beds start at €20. Strong points: The location within walking distance to the temples, the cleanliness, the modern decor. Perfect for small budgets!
• Rambuttri Village Plaza: Located 1.5 kilometer from the Grand Palace and 500 meters from Khao San Road. Bright and pleasant double rooms starting at €30 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: Location, the rooftop swimming pools.
• Baan Wanglang Riverside, Bangkok: A hotel located on the riverbank opposite the Grand Palace, only 5 minutes away by shuttle boat. Spacious double rooms with a river view starting at €50. Strong points: The amazing river view, the rooftop, the proximity to the 3 main temples of Bangkok.
• Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel: A brand new hotel, 10 minutes on foot from the Grand Palace and 1km from the National Museum. Warm and comfortable rooms with a balcony starting at €70, breakfast included. Strong points: The surroundings, the comfortable beds, the friendly staff, the pool. It’s my favorite for its amazing value for money around the Grand Palace!
• Inn a day: located 600 meters away from the Grand Palace. Rooms with unusual and atypical industrial style decoration starting at €100, breakfast included. Strong points: Amazing view of the river and Wat Arun, excellent breakfast, the design.
• Chakrabongse Villas: On the riverbank, only a 15 minute walk to Wat Pho. Rooms and suites with Oriental yet modern decor start at €170, breakfast included. Strong points: The incomparable view of Wat Arun, the excellent location, the pool. It’s my recommendation for a romantic stay in Bangkok!

The best quiet hotels near the metro (to get around easily)

• Bangkok Patio: Located 10 minutes away on foot from the BTS Skytrain. Super spacious and modern studios and apartments with equipped kitchens and balconies starting at €40 per night. Strong points: The pool, the quiet, the location. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money! Also perfect for family holidays.
• Noursabah Boutique Bed Bangkok: Situated 500 meters from the BTS and Airport Rail Link (a direct line to the airport). Well decorated rooms with super comfortable bed begin at €50 a night with breakfast included. Strong points: The quiet, the comfort, food is available (noodles, yogurt, cereal), water, fruit juice 24 hours a day, super convenient to go to the airport.
• Anajak Bangkok Hotel: Located 5 minutes from the metro and the Airport Rail Link. Very comfortable and cozy rooms starting at €75 a night with breakfast. Strong points: The calm location, the pool, the style of the rooms. An excellent choice for visiting Bangkok or to easily get to the airport at the end of your trip.
• Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn: Situated just a few steps from the metro. Spacious rooms with large bay windows, staring at €115 including breakfast. Strong points: The great value for money, the infinity pool, the delicious breakfast, the direct access to the metro. It’s my recommendation for a high-end stay in Bangkok.
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Luxury hotel with direct access to Siam Paragon shopping center and the BTS. Elegant and contemporary rooms starting at €230, breakfast included. Strong points: The large pools and garden, the jacuzzi, the spa, the excellent breakfast. The best hotel in Bangkok for a luxurious stay!

 

2) Ayutthaya (1 day)

To continue your month-long stay in Thailand, you will now head to Ayutthaya, just 75 km from Bangkok.

To get there, you can choose fromseveral means of transport:

• Rent a car (which you will keep until Chiang Rai). This is the fastest way to get around on this month-long road trip in Thailand. My recommendation is renting a car from the Don Muang airport in Bangkok (not the one you arrived at) as it is directly on the way to Ayutthaya. It will only take you 45 minutes by car.

To book your rentalcar, you must use Booking.com Cars. Simply because the website allows you to compare all the fares for the airport’s rental companies in one click and their comprehensive insurance system is very effective in case of accident or theft.

You can directly compare all the rental rates by clicking on the button below:

• Train: a train ticket costs only 15 Bahts and the journey takes 2 hours, this is the cheapest option.
• Bus: It takes 90 minutes and costs 50 Bahts
• Minivan: It takes one hour and costs 70 Bahts

Upon arriving in Ayutthaya, you can spend the rest of the day visiting the historical park and its many temples, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The prices, timings, and must-see temples are given in detail in my dedicated article: How to visit Ayutthaya?

Spend a night in Ayutthaya.

Accommodation in Ayutthaya

• Early Bird Hostel Ayutthaya: Hostel located 700 metres from Wat Mahathat. Dormitory bed from €13, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, cleanliness, privacy thanks the curtain. Perfect 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. Strong points: quiet, decor, private parking. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Ayutthaya!
• P.U. Inn Resort: Located 5 minutes from the bus station and 10 minutes from Mahathat temple. Comfortable and colourful double room from €45. Strong points: swimming pool, central location, warm welcome.
• Baan Thai House: Located 1.4 km from Wat Yai Chai Mongkon. Spacious villa with balcony and garden or lake view from €65, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, outdoors, good meals, setting, calm.
• Classic Kameo Hotel & Serviced Apartments, Ayutthaya: 5 minute drive from Yai Chai Mongkon Temple. Double room with kitchenette and sitting area, modern and spacious, from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: facilities, comfort, swimming pool, spa.
• Sala Ayutthaya: Located 1.6 km from the historical park and the Wat Chai Watthanaram. Modern double room with exposed red bricks from €140, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, view of the river and the temples, food quality, hotel design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Ayutthaya!

3) Sukhothai (2 days)

For this leg of our 1 month itinerary in Thailand, I would suggest going a bit to the north: towards Sukhothai, 350 km from Ayutthaya.

In view of the distance, it is best to keep one day just to get there:

• By car, expect it to take around 5 hours, and the roads are in excellent condition, lined with many brand new petrol stations
• By bus: from the Ayutthaya bus station it’s a 6 hour journey. There are several departures during the day. Price: 300 Bahts.
• By train: Sukhothai does not have a railway station, you will have to take the train to Phitsalunok (4h / 700 Bahts) + 1 bus from Phitsalunok to Sukhothai (1h / 50 Bahts).

The next day, you will get a full day to discover the historical park of Sukhothai. Along with Ayutthaya, these are the 2 must-see parks. Sukhothai is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As with for Ayutthaya, I have prepared a comprehensive article with all the information to visit Sukhothai here: Practical tips for visiting Sukhothai.

Spend another 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. Strong points: swimming pool, peace and quiet, welcoming atmosphere. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Sukhothai!
• Thai Thai Sukhothai Guesthouse: Located 1.5 km from the park. Double room with traditional decor, wooden furniture and garden view from 30€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, very warm welcome, charming.
• Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort: Located 1.5 km from the historical site of Sukhothai. Spacious bungalow with Thai decor and wooden furniture, from €40, including breakfast. Strong points: swimming pool and excellent outdoor setting, peace and quiet, bike rental and the location close to the park. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Sriwilai Sukhothai: Located 1.8 km from the park. Spacious and bright double room with balcony overlooking the rice fields from €80, breakfast included. Strong points: superb setting, large infinity pool, spa, peace and quiet, attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Sukhothai!

4) Chiang Mai (4 days)

For the fourth leg of this one-month trip to Thailand, continue further north and travel 300 km to Chiang Mai.

The journey vary depending on your means of transport:

• 4h30 drive by car, once again the roads are excellent and the journey is straight. No stress!
• 6 hours by bus (departure from Sukhothai Bus Station) – 300 Bahts
• By train: from Sukhothai, you will first have to go to Phitsalunok by bus (1h / 50 Bahts) then take the train: 6 to 8 hours and between 100 to 600 Bahts (different classes).

Here too, you can expect a good day’s journey, but if you feel like it, you can take a short walk at the end of the day to get an initial glimpse of the city.

On the second day, you can start with the actual exploration of Chiang Mai, renowned for its many temples. The majority of the temples are located in the old town, which gives you the perfect opportunity to take a walk and see:

• Wat Phra Singh. Free of cost.
• Wat Chedi Luang – 40 bahts.
• Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang. Free of cost.
• The Three Kings Monument
• One of the 3 history museums of the city: the cultural centre, the history centre and the Lanna museum of popular arts.
• Wat Chiang Man
• Warorot market
• Wat Saen Fang, Wat Buppharam and Wat Mahawan. Only the Buppharam temple has an entrance fee: 20 Bahts.

From 6 to 7 pm, head either to the Night Bazaar (during the week) or to the Saturday or Sunday market. Typical of many Thai cities, you will find plenty of souvenirs and food stands where you can taste the excellent traditional cuisine.

You can also explore the night market in a guided visit, which also includes numerous tastings. Click here to book!

Return to your Chiang Mai hotel for a second night.

On the third day in Chiang Mai, head to the Doi Suthep National Park, a classic destination near the northern capital.

It is best to take your car or rent a scooter to go there and have the freedom to plan your day. Alternatively, you can also take one of the shared taxis (song thaew) leaving from the old town. However, you will have to wait until it fills up before you can leave.

Last choice: go on an organised trip with a guide. This is a practical solution because you don’t need to manage anything are picked up from your hotel.

To find our more about reserving this tour by clicking on the button below:

Here is the list of places to see in the park:

• Huay Kaew waterfall: at the entrance – Free of cost
• Mon Tha Than waterfall – 100 Bahts + 30 Bahts for a car
• The Doi Suthep temple and its panoramic view overlooking the whole province – 30 Bahts
• The gardens of Bhubing Palace for a walk at the winter residence of the royal family – 50 Bahts
• The Hmong village at the end of park road. With lots of souvenir stands and a garden with a waterfall – 10 Bahts

On the last day in Chiang Mai, I’ll let you choose between 2 standard activities of a month-long stay in Thailand:

• Spend a day with elephants at a shelter where you can feed and wash them. It is better to book in advance, since there only a small number of are visitors allowed a day so as not to disturb the elephants.

• Take a Thai cooking class with which includes buying ingredients at the market, making delicious recipes and of course a tasting!

If you have a car, you must spending the late afternoon at Huay Tung Tao Lake, about 15 minutes from the city centre. It is very popular with locals who love to come and eat on stilted huts by the water.

There is also a large area with giant straw animals for souvenir photography.

Access to the lake costs 50 Bahts per person.

Spend one last night in Chiang Mai.

Need more information about Chiang Mai? Read my article: Chiang Mai: the definitive guide.

Accommodation in Chiang Mai

• HOSTEL by BED: Youth hostel located 500 meters from Wat Phra Sing and the Sunday market. The beds are in a modern and clean dormitory and start at 10€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: clean rooms and common areas, a good and healthy breakfast, bottled water. This is the best budget accommodation in Chiang Mai. Perfect for backpackers!
• Wing Bed: Located in the old town, 800 meters from Wat Chedi Luang. Comfortable and cosy double rooms starting at 35€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: brand new building, ideal location, excellent service. It’s my recommendation in Chiang Mai for its outstanding value for money!
• Pingviman Hotel: Located 10 minutes away from the weekend market and 700 meters from Wat Phra Sing. Thai style double rooms with carved wooden furniture, spa bath and balcony, starting at 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, traditional decoration, perfect location, comfort.
• 99 The Heritage Hotel: Located in the pedestrian street of the Sunday night market. Double room with tasteful decoration and very comfortable bedding starting at 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, friendly staff, good location, free mini bar, fruits and cakes available all day long. A great choice for a romantic stay in Chiang Mai!
• Chala Number6: 5* hotel located in the historic center, 200 meters away from Wat Chedi Luang. This luxury hotel offers spacious and very comfortable rooms, starting at 190€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool and garden, lovely staff, charming hotel, snacks offered every day. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay!

5) Chiang Rai (3 days)

Continue this 1 month tour in Thailand with a last stop in the North, at Chiang Rai.

What are the options to go from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

• Car: 3h30 to cover 200 km between the two cities
• Bus: 3h30
• No trains

Once you arrive in the afternoon, you must take a walk around the city.

The must-see spots:

• Wat Phra Kaew – Free
•  The golden clock tower – Free
• Wat Ming Meuang – Free
• Wat Phra Sing – Free
• Wat Klang Wiang – Free
• Wat Jet Yot – Free
• The HillTribe Museum on the history of the mountainous ethnicities of northern Thailand – 50 Bahts.
• The Oub Kham Museum and its superb collection of objects from the kingdom of Lanna. Only guided tours available (300 Bahts).

In the evening, visit the traditional Night Bazaar for a bite to eat and go stroll among small shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.

The next day, you can start strong by going to the absolutely unmissable place of this stay in Chiang Rai: the white temple.  Undoubtedly the most visited monument in the region and one of the most famous in all of Thailand!

Its special feature is the completely white walls covered with lime and mirror shards that make it sparkle in the sun. The entire temple is decorated with many sculptures and statues with impressive details.

The entrance fee is 50 Bahts.

For the rest of the day, you have the following options:

• The Khun Korn waterfall, accessible via a small hike – Free
• Singha Park, to visit the tea plantations, and make sure you take a photo of the park’s emblem: a large statue of a golden lion. Free
• Wat Huay Pla Klang and its 3 temples, each one more impressive than the other – Free
• The blue temple, a beautiful spot, and free!

After a good night’s sleep, you can continue exploring Chiang Rai and its surroundings:

• Visit to the Baan Dam Museum, which is a cluster of several black houses with a peculiar and surprising decor: animal skins, bone thrones, animal skulls… – 80 Bahts
• Go to Doi Tung to explore the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a splendid and very well developed garden, and the Doi Tung Royal Villa, residence of the Princess Mother of Thailand – The pass costs 220 Bahts to visit everything. You can also experience a zip-line descent in the park, but for an additional fee.
• Take a road trip amidst beautiful landscapes between Doi Tung and Mae Salong
• Walk to Mae Salong market.

Last night in Chiang Rai.

All things to do in Chiang Rai can be found in our article: What are the things to see and do in Chiang Rai?

Accommodation in Chiang Rai

• Connect Hostel: Youth hostel located 10 minutes from the night market and the bus station. Modern dormitory bed with curtain from 10€. Strong points: cleanliness, modern and really nice common areas, comfortable beds, very friendly staff. This is the best hostel in Chiang Rai. Ideal for backpackers, 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 a colorful decoration and a very comfortable bed starting from 21€. Strong points: the availability of the staff, a kitchen for breakfast, the calm. An excellent choice if you’re traveling to Chiang Rai on a budget!
• Nak Nakara Hotel: Located at 2 minutes walk from the HillTribe Museum and the park. Tastefully decorated double room in traditional lanna style starting from €60, breakfast included. Strong points: large swimming pool, free shuttle to the Night Bazaar, comfortable rooms, convenient location. A great choice for its exceptional value for money!
• The Riverie by Katathani: 5 stars hotel located 800 meters from Wat Phra Sing and 1 km from the night market, on the riverside. Modern, luxurious and spacious double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: the huge swimming pool, children’s playground, the view on the river, the jacuzzi, the tennis court. A great choice for a romantic stay in Chiang Rai!
  
• The Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand: 5 stars hotel complex located 3 km from the night market. Elegant, design and spacious double room from 105€, breakfast at 14€. Strong points: really beautiful outdoor spaces, swimming pool, Spa, riverside location, quietness, free shuttle to the city centre. Simply the best hotel for a luxury stay in Chiang Rai!

6) Phuket (4 days)

Now we have reached the second part of this 1 month road trip in Thailand. For today, you can reach Chiang Rai Airport and fly to South Thailand.

And yes, visiting Thailand in 1 month also includes enjoying the beaches. And what better way than to start with one of the country’s best known islands: Phuket!

Here is an idea for an itinerary to explore the island and its surroundings in 4 days:

• First day (after landing): go to Patong beach to relax or enjoy water activities like parasailing. At the end of the evening, you can go to Bangla Road with its many bars. You will also have the opportunity to attend a ladyboy show (tickets available for purchase here) or a boxing fight (tickets can be purchased there).
• Day two: boat trip to Koh Phi Phi. Click here to book!
• Day three: trip to the Similan Islands to swim in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Book your trip here!
• Day Four: road trip to visit Phuket: Phuket Town, Monkey Hill, Khao Rang Hill, Wat Chalong, beaches…

I have explained everything in detail in this article: Visit Phuket.

Accommodation in Phuket

If you want to be in the middle of the action, I have prepared a selection of accommodation on the Patong side:

• Lub D Phuket Patong: Youth Hostel 5 minutes from Patong Beach and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Modern and very clean dormitory bed from €12. Strong points: huge swimming pool, common areas with even a boxing ring, design, cleanliness. This is the best hostel in Phuket!
• Mazi Design Hotel by Kalima: Located 5 minutes from the night market and 10 minutes from Bangla Road. Spacious designer double room from €35 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: swimming pool, location, comfort of the rooms. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Patong.
• Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central: Located opposite the beach. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €72, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor facilities, swimming pool, welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff.
• Phuket Marriott Resort Spa, Merlin Beach: 5-star hotel complex located 2 miles from Patong, right on Tri-Trang beach. Warm and comfortable double room with private balcony or terrace from €110, breakfast at €19. Strong points: sea-side location, private beach, quiet, playground for children, setting. This is my 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 Phuket Old Town. Dormitory bed from €8, breakfast included. Strong points: helpful staff, cleanliness, location, calm atmosphere. The best youth hostel to stay in Phuket Town!
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel: Located 600 metres from Thalang Street. Clean and well-equipped double room from €28. Strong points: 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 at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, ideal location to take the boat to Koh Phi Phi. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Phuket Town!
• Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel: Located in the old town. Double room decorated with great taste from €50 per night, breakfast at €7. Strong points: excellent location, friendly staff, right next to the night market.
• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located 1 mile away from the old town. Super spacious double room, modern design from €85, breakfast at €15. Strong points: setting, comfort, ideal to visit the old town, close to the boat to the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Phuket Town!

7) Koh Lanta (4 days)

You must continue this itinerary for about thirty days in Thailand with a well known island that is a little less touristy than Phuket: Koh Lanta.

To get there, you have to take a boat from the port of Rassada in Phuket to Koh Phi Phi (2h30) and from there change to another boat to Koh Lanta (1h15). The prices online are about 1000 Bahts but by going through our hotel, who called the company directly, we were able to get our tickets for 700 Bahts for 2 with transfer to and from the port included.

If you prefer to take a single boat, you can also take a speedboat, but there are not many seats. For this trip, it’s better to book in advance. To get more information about the reservation, click here!

In the afternoon, enjoy one of the many beaches on Koh Lanta Island on the west coast. The further south you go, the fewer people there will be.

Spend the first night in Koh Lanta.

For the next 3 days, here are my recommendations:

• Take the 4 islands trip to Koh Chuek, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai. A fully relaxed schedule with swimming and snorkelling.

• Enjoying the activities planned on the island: kayaking in the mangrove (click here to book) , diving, cooking classes, cave tours…

• Go to Koh Rok for a day trip on this beautiful island with fine sands and turquoise waters:

My detailed explanations of things to do in Koh Lanta can be found here: The best things to do in Koh Lanta?

Accommodation in Koh Lanta

In Koh Lanta, hotels are located on the west coast of the island, close to the numerous beaches.

As always, the best rooms are fully booked months in advance, so make sure to book as soon as you have your travel dates!

• Hub of Joys Hostel: Hostel located 350 metres from Long Beach. Clean and pleasant dormitory bed from €6 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, 5 minutes from the beach, good breakfast. This is the cheapest accommodation option in Koh Lanta! Perfect for backpackers.
• Long Beach Chalet: Located right on Long Beach. Bright and comfortable bungalow from 25€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, direct access to the beach.
• SriLanta Resort: Located on Klong Nin Beach. Thai style villa with a terrace overlooking the garden from 35€, breakfast at 10€. Strong points: 3 swimming pools, the setting, ideal location to go to the beach, comfort. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Kaw Kwang Beach Resort: Located on Klong Dao Beach. Nice and spacious double room from 50€, breakfast included. Strong points: sea-view, very quiet and accessible beach, swimming pool, landscaped garden, free pick-up and drop-off at the port.
• Rawi Warin Resort And Spa: 5 star hotel located 400 metres from Klong Nin Beach. Modern Thai style double room with wooden furniture and balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pools, playground for children, view, competent staff, ample and varied breakfast. Ideal for an upscale romantic stay!
• Pimalai Resort & Spa: 5 star hotel located 650 ft from Kantiang Beach. Very spacious and tastefully decorated double room from 210€, breakfast included. Strong points: the splendid infinity pool, dedicated staff, location, view, excellent breakfast. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Koh Lanta!

8) Krabi (4 days)

Another stop on this 4 week trip to Thailand: Krabi.

Same as for the previous legs, you will have to take the boat to go to Krabi from Koh Lanta: approximately 350 Bahts per person for a 2 hour and 30 minute crossing.

In Krabi you must stay in Ao Nang, the main seaside resort of the province. This will allow you to spend the afternoon on the first day on the Ao Nang beach or Nopparat Thara beach, which isn’t far away.

For the other 2 days in Krabi, you can:

• Spend a day on the Railay peninsula, which is accessible only by boat from Ao Nang beach: 10 minutes for 200 Bahts. At Railay you can enjoy the 2 beautiful beaches of Railay West and Phra Nang. If you feel like exercising a bit, you can choose from kayaking, paddling and climbing. Railay is a destination which is known worldwide for this sport. Beginners can even book a course there directly!

• Take a trip to the islands of Koh Poda, Koh Kai and Koh Tup on a boat with a snorkelling stop.

On the last day at Krabi and Ao Nang, you have the following options:

• Climb to the tiger temple to admire the view and visit Krabi Town in the afternoon.
• Take a day on tour to the emerald pool and hot springs. You can book it here.
• Hiking in the Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
• Different sports activities: kayaking, zipline, quad biking, rafting, horseback riding on the beach, Thai boxing lessons…

If you want to know more about Krabi, read our article: Krabi: the definitive guide.

Accommodation in Krabi / Ao Nang

There are 3 main areas to stay in Krabi province:

• Krabi Town, practical for visiting “land” sites such as the national park, the tiger temple or the emerald swimming pool.
• Ao Nang if you are looking for a lively area on the seafront and for trips to nearby islands such as Koh Phi Phi or Chicken Island.
• Railay to enjoy the beach.

To help you, I have prepared a selection of the best hotels to stay based on these areas and your budget.

Best accommodation in Krabi Town

• Pak-Up Hostel: Hostel located in the centre of Krabi. Dormitory bed from 7€. Strong points: cleanliness, large storage lockers under the beds, air conditioned dormitories. Perfect for small budgets and backpackers! 
• Krabi Golden Hill Hotel: Located 500 metres from the river and 900 m from the Night market. Spacious and bright double room from €25, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, friendly staff, free shuttle to the city centre.
• The Nice Krabi Hotel: Located opposite Maharaj market. Comfortable and modern double room from €40, breakfast included. Strong points: The staff was very friendly. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Krabi Town. 
• River Front Krabi Hotel: Located on the riverfront, 900 metres from the weekend market. Spacious and warm double room with balcony, from €55, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, very comfortable bedding, brand new hotel.

The best hotels in Ao Nang

• K-Bunk Hostel: Hostel located 15 minutes walk from Ao Nang beach. Dormitory bed from €13. Strong points: the staff, the ambiance, comfortable beds.
• Cocco House: Located 1.5 km away from Nopparat Beach. Very clean and quiet bungalow from €30 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, free bike rental, good bedding. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Ao Nang.
• Wake Up Aonang Hotel: Located right next to the beach. Double room with large bay windows and sea view from €50. Strong points: the beach adjacent location and all the restaurants, swimming pool, comfort.
• Phu Pha Aonang Resort Spa: Located 800 m away from Ao Nang Beach. Wooden and parquet floor room with patio from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: lush garden, view of the cliff, swimming pool, free shuttle to the town. This is my 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 a spa bath, from €220, breakfast included. Strong points: environment, swimming pool, beautiful rooms. My recommendation for a luxury stay in Ao Nang. The best place to spend a romantic holiday!

Where to stay in Railay

• Railay Garden View Resort: Located at Railay East Beach. Wooden bungalow with balcony and lounge area from €50, breakfast included. Plus: the view, spacious the bungalows.
• Railay Phutawan Resort: Located 250 metres from Railay East. Warm and bright double room from €90, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, setting, view of the sea and the cliffs.
• Sand Sea Resort: Located on West Railay beach. Deluxe bungalow, very charming, with a terrace, from €140, breakfast included. Strong points: the beachfront location, 2 swimming pools, ample breakfast.
• Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa: Located next to East Railay beach. Elegant, modern and warm room from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, jacuzzis, magnificent setting, very helpful staff, excellent breakfast. My recommendation for a luxury stay in Railay!

9) Koh Yao Noi (3 days)

For the last stop of this 1 month tour in Thailand, you must end your holiday on a small island that is not yet flooded by tourists: Koh Yao Noi.

A super practical option and only 30 minutes by boat from Krabi (the journey costs 300 Baht).

On the agenda for these 3 days on Koh Yao Noi:

• Enjoy the beaches and take a walk. You can rent a scooter to explore the island.
• The boat trip to the 4 islands was the best experience I had during my entire one month road trip in Thailand! The fare is 2500 Bahts for the boat (divided by the number of passengers).
• The trip to Phang Nga Bay, with James Bond Island and Koh Panyee for 4500 Bahts per boat (here too, divided among passengers).

All the things to do in Koh Yao Noi are given in our article: Visit Koh Yao Noi.

And now your one month vacation in Thailand is coming to an end! From Koh Yao Noi, you can either return to Krabi or Phuket to get to the airport and catch your return flight.

Accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

• Tha Khao Bay View: Located to the east of the island. Simple bungalow with fan from €25 per night. Strong points: the incredible view of the sea, the location in the middle of nature, the friendliness of the owners. An excellent choice for a cheap stay in Koh Yao Noi!
• Koh Yao Seaview Bungalow: Located on the seafront, 15 minutes away in a songthaew from the port. Very spacious bungalow with a large bed and private terrace overlooking the swimming pool or the sea, from €45 per night. Strong points: the beach is nearby, the calmness, the swimming pool, the really cheap restaurant which provides delicious food in ample quantities. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Paradise KohYao: Located to the north of the island. Tastefully decorated room with an outdoor bathroom and private terrace from €95, breakfast included. Strong points: idyllic setting, infinity pool, private beach, location in the bay.
• Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island. Spacious and bright double room with very fancy decoration, from €150 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: design, calm, dreamy setting, friendly staff. A beautiful hotel in Koh Yao Noi, perfect for a romantic stay!
• Laguna Villas Yao Noi: Located to the south-east of the island, right on the beach. Beautiful fully equipped villas, a perfect mix of modern and traditional Thai style from €200 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: sea-facing location, 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 swimming pools and even a butler that will be assigned to you for the duration of your stay. From €570, breakfast included. Strong points: Spa, gym, private beach, comfort, excellent meals, exceptional service. This is clearly the most beautiful luxury hotel in Koh Yao Noi. A dream place to spend your honeymoon or a romantic stay!

 

If you have any questions for organising your 1 month itinerary in Thailand, please feel free to ask me in the comments.

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Thailand? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Thailand: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

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• Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
• Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
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• Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
• Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
• Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
• Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
• Phuket: The 23 best things to do
• Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?

• 3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
• 3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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