1 Week in Thailand & Cambodia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Thailand & Cambodia Highlights Tour: Chiang Mai, Bangkok & Siem Reap

On this classic multicountry trip, you'll spend two nights each in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Siem Reap and tick off each city's highlights and nearby wonders. Perfect for first-time visitors to Thailand and Cambodia, you'll experience the cultural richness of these destinations while interacting with elephants, exploring ancient Ayutthaya, and marveling at Bangkok's iconic temples. Then, round off the adventure meandering among Angkor Wat's archaeological splendor.

Welcome to Thailand! Your adventure begins in the mountainous Chiang Mai. After refreshing at your hotel, you'll meet with a guide for an immersive tour of the city's historic temples, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man. The following morning, visit Eco Elephant Care to feed, bathe, and play with these gentle giants, then journey to the village of the White Hmong hill tribe for a memorable afternoon learning about the villagers' culture and customs. On Day 3, you'll board a flight to Bangkok and dive straight into sightseeing with a guided tour of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun on the agenda.

Before leaving Bangkok, venture to the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ayutthaya for a guided stroll of the grounds and a visit to the Portuguese Archeological Museum. Afterward, explore Bangkok independently and prepare for a flight to Cambodia. Your destination is Siem Reap, and upon landing, get your bearings in the new city during a guided walking tour past the King's Residence and through the lively Psar Chars (Old Market). Lastly, spend a day touring the impressive Angkor Wat and its many temples, canals, and towers until it's time to bid farewell at Siem Reap's airport. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Cultural Treasures of Thailand & Cambodia

Ideal for travelers eager to soak up Thailand and Cambodia's long history and cultural wonders, this relaxed-paced itinerary features three-night stays in Bangkok and Siem Reap. Minimal travel time means you can make the most of your short trip and pack in activities, including a visit to Bangkok's Grand Palace, a food tour featuring exotic bites, and stops by the colorful Railway and Floating markets. Then, in Siem Reap, witness Angkor Wat at sunrise and meander between waterfalls and temples on Phnom Kulen.

Upon landing in Bangkok, your adventure begins with three days in this vibrant, friendly, and chaotic city. Kick things off with an afternoon to explore at your leisure, perhaps dodging traffic in a tuk-tuk or meandering through Chinatown, then board a luxury dinner cruise for a scenic ride down the Chao Phraya River. The following day immerses you in Bangkok's rich culture, starting with visits to Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and Wat Phra Kaew and concluding with an evening food tour. Dedicate your last day to the unusual Mae Klong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market before departing Thailand.

The second half of your journey brings you to Siem Reap in Cambodia for a three-night stay. Begin with a guided tour of the area's highlights, and in the evening, savor exotic street food in the bustling Pub Street district. Rise early to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, then set out on a full-day tour with stops at Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and the serene Royal Independence Gardens. As your trip nears its end, venture to Phnom Kulen (Kulen Mountain) for idyllic walks and round off your stay boating along Tonlé Sap, a large freshwater lake dotted with floating villages. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Wonders of Thailand & Cambodia: City, Beach & Temples Tour

Discover a diverse array of natural wonders and historical highlights on this city, beach, and temple tour spanning Bangkok, Phuket, and Siem Reap. Tailored for those craving a cultural trip complemented by beach relaxation, you'll savor Bangkok's vibrant markets and street food, experience a traditional dance show in Siem Reap, and allocate a day to island-hop among the beautiful Phi Phi Islands. Then, round off the adventure with a captivating exploration of the ruins of Angkor Thom.

Off the plane in Bangkok, your trip starts with a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Foodies can make a beeline to Chinatown, sports enthusiasts can catch a Thai kickboxing match at Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium, and art lovers can check out Warehouse 30. Discover more of Bangkok's most remarkable temples the following morning during a guided tour, including Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace, then spend the afternoon cruising along busy canals in a long-tail boat. Next, fly to the island of Phuket, where the day is yours to sunbathe, snorkel, or grab a drink on the lively Bangla Road. 

Midway through your weeklong adventure, enjoy an idyllic day of island-hopping among the Phi Phi Islands, snorkeling on Bamboo Island, and spotting playful macaques at Monkey Beach. Catch a flight to Siem Reap on Day 5, where you'll delve into the region's elaborate temples and warm culture. Your stay's highlights include a traditional Apsara dance dinner show, exploring Angkor Thom's ruins, and admiring nature's power at the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. Lastly, watch the memorable sunset from the Pre Rup temple before catching your onward flight the following day. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Nature Tour of Northern Thailand & Cambodia

Perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an activity-packed trip, this one-week trip focuses on the mountainous landscapes of northern Thailand and Cambodia. Starting in Chiang Mai, you'll trek alongside rice fields and waterfalls in Doi Inthanon National Park and spend a day hiking and bathing with elephants. Then, fly to Siem Reap, where you'll boat along Tonlé Sap Lake, explore Angkor Wat, and trek in the lush jungles of Phnom Kulen. 

Before venturing into the mountains, your journey starts with a half-day temple tour in Chiang Mai, which includes climbing the Golden Naga Staircase within Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for spectacular views and a moment of tranquility in its courtyard. Revitalized and keen for more, set out on a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park. With an entire day here, you can hike through rice fields, visit the local Karen hill tribe village, and marvel at the Wachirathan Waterfall. The next day, return to the jungle for a memorable elephant caring experience at a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of these majestic creatures.

On the morning of Day 4, bid farewell to Thailand, fly to Siem Reap, and spend the afternoon cruising along Tonlé Sap and checking out its floating villages. Of course, no trip to Siem Reap is complete without a day devoted to exploring the ancient temple complexes of Angkor, and that's exactly what you'll do next. Afterward, enjoy an evening of hopping between restaurants along the vibrant Pub Street. Then, on your final full day, travel out of the city to the sacred Phnom Kulen and the mysterious Beng Mealea temple, and wrap up your trip by grabbing last-minute souvenirs at the Old Market. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Nature & History in Thailand & Cambodia: Temples, Waterfalls & Lakes

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Thailand and Cambodia on this multicountry itinerary, crafted for travelers seeking an equally relaxing, history-focused, and nature-embracing trip. Starting in Bangkok, you'll experience the city's vibrant street food, explore the historic landmarks of Kanchanaburi, and take in the beauty of Erawan National Park. Then, fly to Siem Reap, where you'll marvel at the Angkor temple complexes and tour the floating villages on Tonlé Sap lake. You'll also find free afternoons to explore independently or book in for massages. 

After arriving in Bangkok and refreshing at your hotel, the afternoon offers a chance to relax with a Thai massage or explore the city independently. Later, join your guide to taste your way through Chinatown's exotic dishes during a food tour. The following morning is dedicated to an in-depth temple tour, with visits to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, while the afternoon promises a scenic long-tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. You'll also take the opportunity to visit Kanchanaburi, which is known for its World War II monuments, and Erawan National Park for a trek to the tiered Erawan waterfall.

The second half of your adventure takes you to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, you'll have an afternoon to explore independently—perhaps visiting Artisans Angkor, soaring about the city in a hot-air balloon, or bar hopping along Pub Street. Next, join up with a guide for a full-day tour of the Angkor ruins, including Angkor Thom and its Terrace of Elephants and iconic Angkor Wat. Then, with your trip winding down, spend a day boating through Tonlé Sap's floating villages and souvenir shopping at one of the city's markets until it's time to catch your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #6: Temples & Markets of Northern Thailand & Cambodia

Discover the rich culture and heritage of Northern Thailand and Cambodia on this seven-day trip. Ideal for history buffs and food enthusiasts, you'll explore night markets and historic temples in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, then venture to Cambodia to marvel at the archaeological wonders of Angkor Wat and witness the unique lifestyle in Tonlé Sap's floating villages. With numerous guided tours, you'll get an in-depth introduction to each country's culture, all while having travel logistics taken care of.

Your journey begins in Chiang Mai, where you'll settle in for a three-night stay. On your first afternoon, explore Worarot Market and the historic temple of Wat Chiang Man at your own pace, then head to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for shopping and dining. The next day, immerse yourself in the city's temples during a guided tour, followed by a return to Worarot Market to discover the region's rich gastronomy alongside an expert. Rise early on Day 3 for a trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand's northernmost province, to marvel at Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple).

From Thailand, catch a flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and kick off your stay by joining a guided walking tour highlighting iconic landmarks, including the King's Residence and Main Shrine. Your adventure continues with a full day set aside to explore Angkor Wat and its temples, towers, and canals. You'll also make your way through the ancient capital of Angkor Thom before zooming back to your hotel via tuk-tuk. Experience another side of Cambodia on your final full day while boating among the floating villages of Tonlé Sap and celebrate the end of an extraordinary adventure dining in the city. Learn more

More Great 1-Week Thailand Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Thailand? Check out these other one-week Thailand itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.