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7 Days in Thailand: Must-See Places and Food You Can’t Miss from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
This blog post is based on our own 7-day trip through Thailand, traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, with a strong focus on culture, temples, history, and food. Instead of following a strict itinerary, we explored the must-see places in Thailand for first-time visitors, choosing experiences that truly represent the country’s soul.
From iconic temples and historic cities to unforgettable local dishes, this guide shares what not to miss in Thailand from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, especially if you’re a couple or DINK travelers who enjoy culture-driven, food-forward travel.
Food played a huge role in this journey. Thailand is one of those destinations where every meal becomes a memory. If you love discovering a country through its flavors, don’t miss our dedicated post on 👉 Traditional Thai Food You Must Try While Exploring Thailand, where we dive deeper into our favorite dishes. Two stood out above all: Pad Thai, our first love, and Khao Soi, which completely won our hearts in the north.
Iconic Temples and Historic Sites in Bangkok
Bangkok is often travelers’ first introduction to Thailand, and its temples are unforgettable. These are some of the Thailand temples you must visit, especially on your first trip.
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Wat Pho (300 THB)
Home to the famous Reclining Buddha and one of the most peaceful temple complexes in Bangkok.
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Wat Phra Kaew & The Grand Palace (500 THB)
One of the most sacred places in Thailand and a must for understanding Thai history and spirituality.
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Wat Arun (200 THB)
Located on the Chao Phraya River, this temple is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
These sites are essential if you’re looking for cultural experiences in Thailand that go beyond surface-level sightseeing.
Street Food and Local Dishes You Must Try in Bangkok
Bangkok’s food scene is legendary, and it’s one of the best food cities in the world.
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Pad Thai
This was the dish that started it all for us. Balanced, flavorful, and comforting — especially when made fresh at a street stall. -
Mango Sticky Rice
Sweet, creamy, and unforgettable. -
Boat Noodles & Street Skewers
Perfect examples of why Bangkok is known for bold flavors at affordable prices.
If you’re wondering about the best food to eat in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Bangkok sets the bar high right from day one.
A must near Bagkok: THe Floating Market in Thailand
Visiting a floating market in Thailand was about more than tasting local food. Gliding through the canals by boat, we saw vendors selling hand-painted art, colorful souvenirs, handmade crafts, and even ice cream from wooden boats and canal-side stalls. While the food was tempting, what truly stood out was the glimpse into daily life and tradition. The atmosphere felt vibrant yet calm, making the floating market a place to explore, observe, and enjoy beyond just eating.
Beyond Bangkok: Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya
Leaving Bangkok opens the door to even deeper history.
The River Kwai and Hellfire Pass: A Powerful Historical Experience
For travelers interested in history, a visit to the River Kwai and Hellfire Pass near Kanchanaburi is both moving and educational. This area is closely tied to World War II history and the construction of the Thai–Burma Railway, built under extremely harsh conditions by prisoners of war and forced laborers. Walking through Hellfire Pass, now a memorial and museum, offers a deeper understanding of the human stories behind this chapter of history. Combined with views of the River Kwai and nearby sites, this experience adds a meaningful layer to any trip, especially for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and connect with Thailand’s past.
Ayutthaya (Ancient Capital of Thailand)
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Wat Mahathat (80 THB) – Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots
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Wat Phra Sri Sanphet (80 THB) – Once the royal temple
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Wat Yai Chai Mongkol (20 THB) – Known for its impressive chedi
Ayutthaya is essential when thinking about what not to miss in Thailand from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Phitsanulok and Sukhothai: Where Thai History Began
Phitsanulok
Often overlooked, but culturally important and a natural stop between regions.
Sukhothai Historical Park
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Sukhothai Historical Park (200 THB)
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Wat Sri Chum (120 THB) – Famous for its massive seated Buddha
Sukhothai offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Thailand, especially for history lovers.
If you are in South America I would love to see your pictures.
Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai: Northern Thailand Highlights
Northern Thailand feels completely different — slower, greener, and deeply spiritual.
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Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) – Modern, vibrant, and visually stunning
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Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – One of the most unique temples in the world
Beyond temples, visiting Northern hill tribes and spending time at an Elephant Rescue Park was one of the most meaningful experiences of our trip. Ethical elephant sanctuaries offer education, conservation, and unforgettable moments — without exploitation.
Northern Thai Food You Can’t Miss
This is where Khao Soi stole our hearts.
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Khao Soi
Creamy coconut curry, crispy noodles, and deep northern flavors. This alone is worth the journey north. -
Sai Ua (Northern Thai Sausage)
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Nam Prik (Chili dips with vegetables)
Northern cuisine adds depth to any list of the best food to eat in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Where We Stayed (From Our Experience)
We chose comfortable, well-located hotels that worked perfectly for couples:
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Bangkok: Mandarin Hotel Managed by Centre Point – 4★
Excellent location and a very varied, extensive breakfast.
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Phitsanulok: Pattara Resort & Spa – 4★
Peaceful, surrounded by nature. The pool area is beautiful!
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Kanchanaburi: Felix River Kwai Resort
A peaceful riverside stay, ideal for unwinding after exploring the area’s historic sites. Its lush grounds and River Kwai views make it a relaxing base for history-focused travelers.
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Chiang Rai: Laluna Hotel & Resort – 4★
Quiet, relaxing, and well-located with a beautiful swimming pool area.
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Chiang Mai: Centara Riverside Hotel – 4★
Overlooking the river, perfect for unwinding after busy days. The rooms are comfortable and the breakfast bountiful.
Is 7 Days Enough to Experience Thailand’s Highlights?
Seven days isn’t enough to see everything — but it’s perfect to experience Thailand’s essence. This trip allowed us to connect with history, culture, spirituality, and food without rushing.
Conclusion
Thailand is a destination that stays with you. From Bangkok’s grand temples to the soulful flavors of northern cuisine, this journey showed us why Thailand is so special for first-time visitors, couples, and food-loving travelers.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering what not to miss in Thailand from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, focus on experiences, eat everything you can, and slow down enough to truly feel the country.
Tours recommended in Thailand
Bangkok: Train Market & Floating Market with Boat Ride
Experience two of Thailand’s most iconic and lively markets, once central to everyday local life and now a must-see in Bangkok. Visit the famous Railway Market and enjoy a scenic boat ride through a traditional floating market, where vendors sell goods directly from their boats. Book now
Bangkok: Backstreets Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
This walking food tour in Bangkok is one of the top-rated experiences for travelers who want to go beyond tourist spots and dive into the local culinary scene. On this tour, you’ll sample more than 15 tastings — from iconic dishes to hidden neighborhood favorites — while exploring markets, alleys, and small eateries that most visitors miss. Reviewers consistently praise it for its variety, quality, and the knowledgeable guides who share local insights into Thai food culture. Book now
Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai Temples Day Trip with Hot Springs
A highly rated cultural day trip from Chiang Mai that’s perfect for temple fans. You’ll visit the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), relax at the Mae Kachan Hot Springs, and see local hill tribe villages. This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to see more northern Thai culture beyond Chiang Mai. Book now.
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If you’re looking for more in-depth information and a travel guide you can actually bring with you on your trip, I recommend a good Thailand travel guide.
It’s a great source of practical tips, detailed maps, and cultural insights to help you plan your route and make the most of your time in the country. I especially like having a hard copy version, where I can take notes, mark places to eat, and keep everything handy while exploring Thailand.
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