You land at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok early in the morning. The overnight direct flight was long, but perfectly chosen, as it leaves you the entire first day to get to know Thailand's bustling metropolis. In the morning, you'll visit the magnificent Wat Pho temple with the famous reclining Buddha. The golden statue is overwhelming, and in the cool halls of the temple complex you can briefly escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Afterwards, let yourself drift through the small alleys, try Pad Thai on the street (for about 50 THB), and slowly immerse yourself in the heart of Southeast Asia.

Day two starts royally: You visit the Grand Palace – a breathtaking complex of gilded roofs, detailed mosaics, and the legendary Emerald Buddha. Later, take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun Temple, whose white stupa shines in the sunlight. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant, loud, and fragrant Chinatown. You slurp spicy Tom Yum soup at a street food stall (approx. 80 THB) and end the day with a view of the skyline.

Tip: Drink plenty of fluids during the day – Bangkok is hot and humid! Plan for cash for smaller stalls.

Today you're taking a day trip to the historical Ayutthaya, the old royal city north of Bangkok. Optionally, choose a guided tour via GetYourGuide (approx. 950 THB), which starts at the hotel in the morning, or travel independently by train. On site, you will then explore abandoned temple ruins, admire huge Buddha statues and be enchanted by the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Particularly impressive: the Buddha head overgrown with tree roots. Back in Bangkok you will be filled with impressions and happy about some free time in the afternoon.

Early in the morning you leave Bangkok by minivan and head to Pak Chong – the gateway to Khao Yai National Park. The journey takes about three hours, and after checking into the charming hotel you can start your first half-day tour right away. You swim in a natural waterfall, climb through a cave and, if you're lucky, discover exciting animals. The day ends with a sunset behind the treetops and nocturnal bat watching.

A whole day of pure nature awaits you today. Early in the morning, it's off to the national park – by jeep, with a guide and a small group. You'll hike to waterfalls like Haew Su Wat and keep an eye out for gibbons in the treetops. With a little luck, you'll also spot hornbills, colorful butterflies, and wild elephants, which you'll of course observe from a safe distance. Back at the guesthouse, you'll fall exhausted but happy into bed in the evening.

After an early breakfast, you say goodbye to the jungle and take a minivan or train back to Bangkok. This time, you'll stay in a hotel near Siam – the center of the modern capital. In the afternoon, you'll visit huge shopping malls like MBK and Siam Paragon. The One Siam Skywalk offers fantastic views over the vibrant metropolis. A contrast to the temples – but just as impressive!

Train Pak Chong → Bangkok (approx. 3 hours, 180 THB, Hua Lamphong station). Hotel tip: Mercure Bangkok Siam (approx. €45–60). Skywalk admission: approx. 400 THB. Malls open daily until 10 pm. Cash and credit cards recommended.

In the morning, you take the bus heading north. After about seven hours, you'll reach Sukhothai – one of Thailand's oldest capitals. You'll settle into your cozy accommodation and before sunset, head to the historical park, where the first temples glow in the warm light. A touch of time travel is in the air.

Today you'll hop on your bike and explore the Sukhothai Historical Park at your leisure. Among weathered stupas, lotus blossoms, and glittering Buddha statues, you'll feel like you're in another world. In the evening, participate in the colourful Loi Krathong light festival (depending on your travel time, the light festival takes place in November) – a magical experience with floating lights and dance performances.

After a relaxing bus ride, you'll arrive in Chiang Mai in the early evening – the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. You'll check into your small hotel near the old town and enjoy a first glimpse of the golden temple roofs and the surrounding mountains as the sun sets. For dinner, you'll head to the night market, where you'll be greeted by the aroma of fresh food, Mango Sticky Rice (50 THB), and spices.

You start your day with a leisurely stroll through the old town, visiting temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. The spiritual atmosphere is impressive. In the afternoon, you participate in a Thai cooking class – including a visit to the market, fresh ingredients, and spicy curries. The perfect mix of culture, learning, and enjoyment!

Today's day trip took you to Doi Inthanon National Park – Thailand's highest mountain. The royal pagodas on the summit, the cloud forest, and a waterfall make this day a special nature experience. You take a deep breath and let the stillness of the mountain air work its magic on you before heading back to Chiang Mai in the evening.

You'll use the last day in the north for a day trip to Chiang Mai. This city has some very special temples to see. The beautiful white temple shines in the sun, at the blue temple you can treat yourself to a delicious coconut ice cream, and at the so-called black temple you'll marvel at the curiosities.

Today you say goodbye to Northern Thailand and take a domestic flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui. The flight is short, but the contrast is huge: from the mountainous jungle to the tropical island with palm trees and turquoise water. After checking into your bungalow, you go straight to the beach. The warm sand under your feet, the gentle sound of the waves – finally island feeling! You enjoy the sunset with a fresh coconut drink and Pad Thai right by the water.

You spend the day exploring Koh Samui. By scooter, you drive to the Big Buddha Temple, to Wat Plai Laem with its colorful figures and to small hidden bays in the north of the island. Later you hike to one of the waterfalls inland – green, wild and refreshing. In the evening there is street food at the Fisherman’s Village market.Scooter rental: from 200–300 THB/day (driving license required). Big Buddha & Wat Plai Laem free of charge, donations welcome. Waterfalls like Na Muang easily accessible. Fisherman’s Village night market: Fri. & Sun. from 5 pm. Water shoes recommended for rocky beaches.

Take it easy on your third day on Koh Samui. Borrow a snorkel mask and explore the rock formations around Coral Cove. Afterwards, head back to the beach for reading, swimming, and doing nothing – exactly what you needed after all those adventures. In the evening, treat yourself to a Thai massage (300 THB) and sleep like a log.

Today you pack your bags and take the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan. The crossing takes only about 30 minutes, and as you sail into the harbor you'll be amazed by the island's tropical beauty. You'll check into a quiet accommodation near the beach and spend the afternoon strolling along the north coast. The water is crystal clear, the sand is powdery soft, and in the evening you'll meet other travelers for a dinner together under the palm trees.

The day starts with a gentle yoga session right between the bungalows. Afterwards, you can try out vegan smoothie bowls and let yourself be carried away by the relaxed atmosphere. Later, explore the west coast by scooter – small beaches, viewpoints and a breathtaking sunset at Secret Beach make the day perfect.

Today it's time to say goodbye: From the hotel in Bangkok it's off to the airport, from where the return flight to Germany starts. While waiting at the gate, you look back on the trip with gratitude – 18 days that have deeply touched and inspired you, full of colors, smiles, and discoveries. If the flight is later in the day, a short walk beforehand is a good idea, for example through Lumphini Park, where you can let the city work its magic on you once more in peace and quiet, amidst green oases, small lakes, and exotic monitor lizards.