Thailand is a destination that offers a captivating mix of vibrant cities, ancient temples, lush jungles and pristine beaches. If Thailand is on your bucket list, but you haven’t figured out the best itinerary yet, here’s the perfect guide to start planning your holiday to Thailand.
Bangkok (3 days)
Arrive in Bangkok via its major international airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Start your holiday to Thailand in Bangkok, the vibrant capital where tradition meets modernity. Discover the city’s top attractions like Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Budda) at the Grand Palace, and the stunning Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) by the Chao Phraya River.
Bangkok is famous for its food scene, with places like Chinatown and Khao San Road, offering mouthwatering dishes such as pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. For a more upscale experience, enjoy cocktails at famous rooftop bars like Sky Bar or Vertigo, where you can soak in panoramic views of the city.
From Bangkok, take a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient Siamese capital, or visit Kanchanaburi, home to the Bridge over the River Kwai and Erawan National Park with its cascading waterfalls.
Kanchanaburi (2 Days)
How to Get There: 2-hour drive from Bangkok.
Kanchanaburi is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Bridge over the River Kwai, part of the Death Railway, is a powerful reminder of World War II’s impact on Thailand. The nearby Hellfire Pass Museum offers further insights into this chapter of history.
Nature lovers will enjoy Erawan National Park, perfect for hiking along its stunning seven-tiered waterfalls, with crystal-clear pools ideal for a refreshing dip. The serene setting offers a welcome break from city life.
Chiang Mai (3 days)
How to Get There: Return to Bangkok and fly to Chiang Mai (1-hour flight)
Located in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its rich cultural heritage and laid-back atmosphere. A visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple perched on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Chiang Mai is a wellness destination, famous for its yoga retreats and meditation centres. For a truly unique experience, visit one of many ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can learn about and interact with elephants in their natural habitat.
Stroll through the Sunday Walking Street Market, where local artisans sell handcrafted goods and street vendors offer authentic northern Thai cuisine. This market is a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Chiang Mai’s local culture during their holidays to Thailand.
Phuket/Koh Samui (4-5 days)
How to Get There: Fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket or Koh Samui (1.5-2 hour flight).
For the perfect beach holiday, or if you are planning your honeymoon, head to Phuket or Koh Samui. Both islands are renowned for their white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and luxury resorts. Phuket offers exciting boat trips to the Phi Phi islands or the quieter Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai for island-hopping adventures.
Koh Samui is perfect for relaxation, offering access to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, ideal for scuba diving and beach hopping. These islands are also known for their exclusive wellness resorts, offering rejuvenating spa treatments and holistic wellness programs.
The local Southern Thai cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Sample the freshest seafood, from grilled fish to spicy prawn curries, all while enjoying the backdrop of turquoise waters and dramatic sunsets.
Krabi (2-3 days)
How to Get There: Take a ferry (2.5 hours) or drive (3 hours) from Phuket or a 1 hour flight from Koh Samui.
For those seeking adventure and gorgeous scenery during their holidays to Thailand, Krabi offers a dramatic setting of limestone cliffs and hidden beaches. Railay Beach is the perfect spot for relaxation, while Ao Nang provides a base for exploring nearby islands.
Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts will enjoy the Phi Phi Marine National Park, famous for its marine life and crystal clear waters. Krabi’s impressive cliffs also attract rock climbers, while the area’s lagoons and caves offer hidden natural gems to explore.
Khao Sok National Park (2-3 days)
How to Get There: Drive from Krabi (2.5 to 3 hours) or from Khao Lak (1 to 2 hours)
For nature lovers, Khao Sok National Park is a hidden gem offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in Thailand. Staying in floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake is a unique experience, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and serene waters. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants and gibbons, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Several eco-lodges in the park offer wellness programs that focus on relaxation through nature therapy, perfect for recharging after all the walking done during this trip to discover Thailand.
Return to Bangkok (1-2 days)
How to Get There: Fly back to Bangkok from Krabi or Phuket (1-1.5 hour flight).
End your holiday to Thailand with a return to Bangkok. Use the time for last-minute shopping in bustling markets or relax in a spa before catching your flight back home. Bangkok’s famous temples, rooftop bars, and street food will ensure your trip ends on a high note.
If you prefer to fly back from Phuket, you can book an indirect flight to the UK, for example with Emirates via Dubai.
Ready to book your holiday to Thailand? Start planning your perfect getaway and explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and luxurious beaches that Thailand has to offer.
