Discover Thailand

Upon your arrival in Bangkok, the vibrant capital city of Thailand, start your adventure by visiting the Grand Palace, a dazzling complex of buildings at the heart of the city. The Grand Palace, once the official residence of the Kings of Siam, is a magnificent example of Thai architecture and is home to the revered Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew). Spend your morning marveling at the intricate details of these historic structures, taking in the rich cultural heritage.
After exploring the Grand Palace, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local Thai restaurants nearby, indulging in some authentic Thai cuisine. As the afternoon progresses, make your way to Khaosan Road, a bustling backpacker's haven known for its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and street food vendors. This is the perfect place to soak up Bangkok's lively atmosphere, perhaps picking up some souvenirs or trying some street food delicacies.
As the sun sets, Khaosan Road transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub, with music filling the air and travelers from all corners of the globe coming together. Enjoy the rest of your evening here, experiencing the lively street life that Bangkok is famous for. Overnight stay in Bangkok.
 

Start your second day with a visit to Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, after breakfast. This temple houses the impressive 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, covered in gold leaf, making it one of Bangkok's most iconic sights. Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, so it's a great place to consider experiencing an authentic massage.
In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat trip along the Chao Phraya River, the lifeblood of Bangkok. This journey offers a different perspective of the city, with views of everything from traditional wooden homes on stilts to modern skyscrapers. Along the way, stop at some of the riverside temples or the famous Asiatique riverfront market for some shopping and dining.
If your visit coincides with a weekend, the afternoon is perfect for exploring the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world. With over 15,000 stalls, you can find almost anything here, from vintage clothing and antiques to local handicrafts and street food. It's an excellent place for souvenir shopping and experiencing the local hustle and bustle. As the day comes to a close, return to your accommodation in Bangkok for a well-deserved rest.
 

On the third day, after breakfast, take a day trip to the unique Maeklong Railway Market, located about 80 kilometers from Bangkok. This market is famously set on train tracks, and vendors quickly pull back their awnings and wares every time a train passes through, offering a unique spectacle. It's a great place to capture some unforgettable photos and experience local market life.
Next, continue to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of the most famous and photographed floating markets in Thailand, located about 100 kilometers from Bangkok. Here, you can hire a small boat to navigate the maze of canals, all bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, traditional food, and souvenirs right from their boats. It's a vibrant, colorful experience that encapsulates the essence of traditional Thai life on the water.
 

Begin your day with an early breakfast in Bangkok before setting off on your journey to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam. The city is approximately 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, which translates to a travel time of around 1 to 1.5 hours by car or bus, making it an accessible day trip destination. Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting its renowned historical sites.
Start your exploration with Wat Mahathat, famous for the photogenic Buddha head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree. This site offers a poignant glimpse into Thailand's majestic past. Next, proceed to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, known for its distinctive row of restored chedis (stupas) and once part of the royal palace grounds, serving as a model for Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaew.
After a local lunch, continue to Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the ruins and remnants of this once-glorious city at your leisure. The park encompasses a vast area with numerous temples, palaces, and statues, telling tales of a bygone era. As the sun begins to set, reflecting off the ancient ruins, your day in Ayutthaya will come to a close, filled with awe-inspiring moments. Overnight stay in Ayutthaya.
 

Spend your morning delving deeper into Ayutthaya's past by visiting more of its ruins and museums. The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is an excellent place to start, with artifacts and treasures that offer insight into Ayutthaya's history and culture.
In the afternoon, prepare for the journey to Kanchanaburi, a town known for its World War II history and stunning natural landscapes. The distance between Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi is approximately 165 kilometers, with a travel time of around 3 hours by road. This scenic route will take you through the Thai countryside, offering glimpses of rural life.
Arrive in Kanchanaburi by late afternoon, just in time to catch a glimpse of the famous Bridge over the River Kwai as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over this historic landmark. The bridge is part of the Death Railway, constructed during World War II. Overnight stay in Kanchanaburi.
 

Your day in Kanchanaburi begins with a visit to the JEATH War Museum, which provides a poignant look at the conditions and history of the Death Railway and the bridge. The museum's exhibits, including photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts, offer a moving insight into the experiences of POWs and Asian laborers during the war.
Following the museum, take a ride on the Death Railway itself, experiencing a part of history firsthand. The train journey offers stunning views of the River Kwai and the surrounding countryside, including a passage over the bridge you visited the day before.
Spend the remainder of your day exploring the natural beauty around Kanchanaburi, perhaps with a visit to the nearby waterfalls or a relaxing boat ride on the river. As the day winds down, the serene beauty of Kanchanaburi's landscapes will provide a peaceful backdrop to reflect on the day's historical and cultural explorations. Overnight stay in Kanchanaburi.
 

On your final day in Kanchanaburi, venture out to Erawan National Park, renowned for its seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology. Spend the morning hiking the trails, swimming in the emerald-green ponds, and enjoying the park's natural beauty.
In the afternoon, begin your journey back to Bangkok, a drive of approximately 2 to 3 hours, to catch a late flight to Phuket. This island paradise in the Andaman Sea is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The flight from Bangkok to Phuket typically takes about 1.5 hours, allowing you to arrive in Phuket by evening, ready to experience the next chapter of your Thai adventure. Overnight stay in Phuket.
 

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Phuket before heading out to the vibrant Patong Beach. Spend your morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or trying out various water sports available along the beach. Patong is not only famous for its beach but also for the lively atmosphere that surrounds it.
In the afternoon, make your way to Phuket Old Town. This historical part of town is known for its colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, quaint cafes, and local boutiques. Stroll through the streets, taking in the unique architecture and perhaps stopping for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many charming establishments. As the sun begins to set, the Old Town's cultural vibe provides a perfect backdrop for evening exploration. Overnight stay in Phuket.
 

After breakfast, embark on a journey to the iconic Big Buddha, one of Phuket's most important and revered landmarks. Situated atop Nakkerd Hill, the massive 45-meter-tall statue offers panoramic views of the island. The serene atmosphere around the Big Buddha is ideal for some introspection and photography.
Next, visit Wat Chalong, Phuket's largest and most visited temple, enriched with history and culture. Spend your time admiring the intricate designs and learning about the temple's significance to the local community.
In the evening, dive into Phuket's vibrant nightlife. The island is renowned for its lively night markets, beach clubs, and bars, offering an array of entertainment options. Enjoy a night out exploring these lively spots, experiencing the island's famed hospitality and fun atmosphere. Overnight stay in Phuket.
 

Start your day early with breakfast before catching a ferry to the stunning Phi Phi Islands, a journey that takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival, indulge in the idyllic beaches of Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands. Spend your day lounging on the white sandy beaches, swimming in the turquoise waters, or exploring the island's vibrant village life.
Phi Phi Don offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and lively island culture, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration. As the day fades into evening, enjoy the spectacular sunset views that the island is famous for. Overnight stay in Phi Phi Don.
 

After breakfast, take a boat tour to the nearby Phi Phi Leh Island, home to the famous Maya Bay, which gained international fame from the movie "The Beach." Although Maya Bay has faced closures in the past to recover from tourism impact, the surrounding waters and other parts of the island continue to offer breathtaking natural beauty, including excellent snorkeling and diving spots.
Explore the stunning marine life, hidden coves, and dramatic limestone cliffs that define the island. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering a close-up view of the vibrant underwater world. Return to Phi Phi Don as the sun begins to set, painting the sky with colors. 
Overnight stay in Phi Phi Don.
 

After breakfast, take a morning ferry back to Phuket, followed by a flight to Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island. The journey may take a good part of the day, but by late afternoon or early evening, you can relax on the powdery sands of Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui's most famous beach.
Chaweng offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and entertainment options, with its clear waters, lively beach bars, and restaurants. After settling in, take some time to explore the local area, perhaps enjoying a beachside dinner or exploring the night markets. Overnight stay in Koh Samui.
 

Devote your day to exploring the natural wonders of Ang Thong Marine National Park, a pristine archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. After breakfast, set off on a kayaking and snorkeling adventure amidst the park's emerald waters, limestone islands, and hidden lagoons.
Discover the park's rich biodiversity, both above and below the water. Kayak around the islands, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, and perhaps even hike to viewpoints for spectacular panoramic views.
In the evening, wind down at Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, known for its rustic charm, boutique shops, and the popular Walking Street market, where you can indulge in local street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Overnight stay in Koh Samui.
 

On your final day, depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll on the beach before departing from Koh Samui. Travel back to Australia via Bangkok, where you may have a layover, offering a final chance for some last-minute shopping at one of Bangkok's malls or markets, or simply relaxing at a café before your onward journey. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you've gathered throughout your tour as you make your way home from this remarkable adventure.