9 Days Thailand Family Tour from Bangkok to Phuket & Phi Phi Island

Sawatdee Krap/Kha! Welcome to Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand! Upon your arrival at the airport in Bangkok, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Bangkok. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Bangkok with your guide the next day.

Bangkok means the "City of Angels" in translation from its ceremonial Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. It is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delicious Thailand street food. You can indulge in Bangkok's diverse culinary scene, from street eats to upscale dining. Shop till you drop in luxury malls or explore local markets. Enjoy the city's lively nightlife, rooftop bars, and live music venues. Bangkok offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an exciting and captivating destination.

Free Time Ideas：
1. You can watch a Thailand boxing game at Rajadamnern Stadium.
2. Unwind with a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment.

Arrival Ideas:
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, serves as a significant international hub with direct flights from various cities worldwide. Major cities offering direct flights to Bangkok include London, Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Doha, Taipei, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Paris, Helsinki, Beijing, New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Sydney. Many cities in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai (Chiang Mai International Airport), Phuket (Phuket International Airport), Krabi (Krabi International Airport), and Koh Samui (Samui International Airport ), also have direct flights to Bangkok's main airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Flight availability and routes can vary based on airlines, seasons, and other factors. It is recommended to consult airlines or our travel consultant for the most up-to-date information regarding direct flights to Bangkok from your specific location.

Today, you will explore the Top 5 must-visit places in Bangkok: Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Chinatown. You see “Wat” means “Temple” in Thai language. You will also experience a Thai tuk-tuk, take a ferry or boat ride on the Chao Phraya River, and indulge in local food in Chinatown. This is a classic Bangkok trip, allowing you to witness 2 of the three treasures of Thailand: the jade Buddha and the reclining Buddha.

In the morning, head to Wat Phra Kaew which was built in 1782 and is located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Covering one-fourth of the Grand Palace's area, Wat Phra Kaew is the most famous royal Buddhist temple in Thailand. This temple is renowned for enshrining one of three national treasures of Thailand, the Emerald Buddha, which is carved from a single block of Emerald. Each year, the Thailand King personally changes the Buddha's robes according to Thailand's three unique seasons. Each season changes with a certain robe: a gold robe embedded with rubies for the hot season, a gold robe embedded with sapphires for the rainy season, and a pure gold robe for the cool season. Don’t forget to check which robe the Emerald Buddha wears when you are there.

On the walls surrounding the cloisters of Wat Phra Kaew, there are a total of 178 murals (1,000m in length). Painted during the reign of King Rama I, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty in 18th-century Thailand (Bangkok Dynasty), the murals depict scenes from the Indian mythological epic "Ramayana," which narrates the story of King Rama joining forces with the monkey deity Hanuman to defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue the exquisite princess Sita. It is said that the story of the "Journey to the West" is also based on this legend. All the murals were created by royal court painters and the golden pigments used were made entirely from gold, resulting in exquisite and unparalleled artwork.

With the guidance of your tour guide, you can learn about the mythical creatures within Thai Buddhist architecture. For example, there is the Garuda, a mythical bird and guardian deity of Buddhism, perched on the rooftops. At the entrance of the temple, you'll find Yaksa, a protective deity, and outside the halls, there are statues of Kinaree, a mythical half-bird, half-human creature. The base of the pagoda is adorned with statues of Hanuman, the monkey deity.

After visiting Wat Phra Kaew, you can go on a visit around the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace, which was first established in 1782, was constructed as a replica of the old palace in the former capital city of Ayutthaya. It serves as a symbol of the Bangkok Dynasty and is the most well-preserved, largest, and most distinctive palace in Thailand. The Grand Palace is currently used for coronation ceremonies, royal celebrations, and hosting foreign dignitaries. From King Rama I to King Rama VIII, all the monarchs of the Bangkok Dynasty resided in the Grand Palace. However, after an assassination incident in 1946 involving King Rama VIII, King Rama IX moved to a new residence. The Bangkok Dynasty has continued to the present day, with the current monarch being King Rama X.

The Grand Palace complex consists of 22 buildings and is elegantly situated along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The main structures are four distinct palaces (Borombhiman Hall, Amarindra Hall, Chakri Mahaprasat, Dusit Hall), showcasing the essence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture, and interior decoration. It is often referred to as the "Encyclopedia of Thai Art". By the way, the Thai King is considered the incarnation of the god Vishnu, and Garuda is Vishnu's guardian. As a result, sculptures of the Garuda (stepping on 2 serpents) can be found on door lintels, eaves, and walls, with a total count exceeding several hundred. Witnessing the changing of the guards' ceremony is a bonus when visiting the Grand Palace.

Then, visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) which is a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace. As the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and the highest number of Buddha images and stupas in the city. The reclining Buddha, one of three national treasures of Thailand, is 46 meters tall and 108 meters long, depicting the scene of the Nirvana of Gautama Buddha. Within the temple grounds, there is a Bodhi tree, believed to be the spot where the Buddha meditated. The temple is adorned with about 100 stupas, with the most magnificent being the four stupas which are decorated with blue, white, yellow, and green ceramic tiles. In the courtyard, you can also see many Chinese-style stone sculptures, such as door guardians and lions, which were traditionally used on ships for ballast and protection against evil spirits.

Wat Pho is regarded as Thailand's first university and is considered the birthplace of Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage. It still houses a private school established in 1957 that teaches traditional Thai medicine and offers authentic Thai massages (optional, self-pay).

In the afternoon, take a ferry or boat (cruise; optional) on the Chao Phraya River to view Wat Arun (outside view). The Chao Phraya River divides Bangkok into two parts, and many famous temples are concentrated along its banks. The Wat Arun, is one of the most prominent temples that stands on the river's edge, complementing the Grand Palace on the opposite side. (Note: Due to the hot weather and the presence of numerous steps at Wat Arun, many of our guests opt to take a boat trip and enjoy the view of Wat Arun from the outside, either from the boat itself or from the opposite side.)

Built in 1809, Wat Arun was established to honor King Taksin (郑信), the 41st monarch of Thailand (1767-1782) and a national hero. During the invasion of the Burmese army, King Taksin led the Thai people in a brave resistance, successfully driving out the Burmese and establishing the Thonburi Kingdom. To commemorate this Chinese-Thai king (from Guangdong), the temple was named Wat Arun, meaning "Temple of Dawn", as the battle took place at dawn. The main stupa of the temple stands at a height of 79 meters and is often referred to as the Thai version of the Eiffel Tower. In contrast to many other magnificent temples adorned with gold, Wat Arun stands out with its elegant white structure, attracting numerous visitors who come to rent traditional Thai costumes for photography. Situated by the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) also offers a captivating view of the sunset, which is another reason why people flock to this location.

In the evening, take a Thai tuk-tuk to Chinatown Bangkok for dinner. Chinatown Bangkok (Yaowarat) is renowned as one of Bangkok's liveliest and most bustling commercial areas, with reportedly 70% of the city's gold shops located in Chinatown. The entire street of Chinatown stretches for about 2 km, lined with numerous shops, and thousands of businesses proudly displaying eye-catching Chinese signs. You may have watched the film Detective Chinatown, which was filmed in Chinatown Bangkok which has a history of over 200 years. You can search for the hidden shops that appeared in the film while enjoying the food in Chinatown, a haven for foodies. The restaurants and food stalls here provide a rich selection of Chinese, Thai, and other Asian delicacies. From classic pad thai to exotic grilled meats, there's something for everyone.

Warm Tips:
1. When entering the Grand Palace or temples, it is prohibited to wear shorts or skirts that do not cover the knees. Shoulders and midriffs should be covered, and clothing should not be excessively tight or have holes.
2.Upon entering a temple, remove your hat and shoes. Photography is prohibited inside the temple halls. The use of drones is strictly prohibited within the royal grounds.
3. Do not enter unauthorized areas or areas marked with warning signs. Unauthorized photography or videography is prohibited in restricted areas.
4. The lights of Wat Arun usually turn on around 7 PM. For sunset, it is recommended to arrive Wat Arun around 5:30 PM, do double check with your guide for the sunset time based on your travel schedule. It is said that the best spot to capture the beauty of Wat Arun is in the alley across from Wat Pho, where a restaurant is located.
5. Opening Hours for Temples (Wat):
Wat Phra Kaew : 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wat Pho: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Wat Arun : 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Today, you will depart Bangkok to Samut Songkhram (80 km,1.5h) early (about 7am), to explore the floating & Train Markets and unveil the Thai countryside life. 

The best and most lively time to visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is in the morning (7am - 14 pm). As the largest and most well-known floating market among Thai and foreign tourists, this water market has a history of over a 100 years, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of local life. Enjoy your time watching vendors sell fresh products (fruits, vegetables, flowers), local handicrafts, souvenirs (locally-made bags), and delicious Thai street food from boats on canals. Be sure to try some local snacks such as coconut ice cream, coconut pancakes, pad thai, boat noodles, mango sticky rice, fresh spring rolls. It's photographers' heaven to capture a scene often depicted in movies (Detective Chinatown) and postcards. Take a long-tailed speedboat or a more relaxed paddle boat ride (optional and recommended) through the canals, immerse yourself in the bustling trading boats, experience the joy of shopping on the boat, and navigate through the traditional buildings of Siam people, as if traveling through time, which is enchanting. It is the only market still preserves the traditional Thai water market style today! If you prefer not to take a boat, you can also explore the market under the sheltered walkways on land.

Warm Tips for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:
1. The market can get crowded, so it's recommended to wear your backpack in front to prevent theft.
2. Be cautious not to drop your belongings into the river.

After visiting Damnoen Saduak, you will head to Maeklong Railway Market (20km, 0.5h) which is famous as the most dangerous market in the world. This is a railway market with a history of over 100 years. The stalls, filled with vegetables and meat, are set up right beside the train tracks. When the train whistle sounds and the train approaches, the vendors swiftly fold their stalls within 10 seconds. The train then passes by closely, allowing you to greet the passengers onboard with joy. You will see tourists rushing around to find the best spot for photos, while the nearby vendors continuously remind you of the best places to stand. It's a moment filled with excitement and happiness. Once the train has passed, the train market’s stalls return to their original state.

Warm tips for Maeklong Railway Market:
1. It's advisable to check the train arrival times in advance to avoid missing them.
2. Train arrival times: 8:30 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:40 PM3.
3. Train departure times: 6:20 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM4.
4. According to the above schedule, wait at the stalls beside the railway tracks 5 minutes before the designated train time.
5. It is livelier on weekends, with a greater number of stalls.

Head back to Bangkok and have a good rest at your hotel. If you like you can enjoy your free time by visiting Khao San Road for the night markets that offer a dazzling array of street food, souvenirs, and clothing.

This morning,you will have some free time in Bangkok and explore more on your own till your guide or driver escorts you to the airport for your flight to Phuket.

If you like you can take a tuk-tuk ride to visit Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market (optional), also known as Bangkok Flower Market, which is one of the top 9 flower markets in the world. This Flower Market is a must-visit destination for a sensory feast. This vibrant market immerses you in a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances, offering an unforgettable experience. Beyond flowers, the market offers glimpses of local life, with lively activity and bustling vendors. Open 24/7, it accommodates all schedules, allowing early risers and night owls to indulge in its charm. Capture unique photos amidst the vibrant displays, and explore stalls selling fruits, vegetables, and floral supplies.

In the afternoon, you will head to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Overnight in Phuket, the largest and most beautiful island of Thailand. Leisure time by the beach in your hotel of Phuket. You can choose your hotel in Phuket near Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, or other beach you like.

Warm Tips for Beaches in Phuket:
1. Kata Beach: Good for water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding, exploring viewpoints, visiting Kata Night Market for a local experience, taking cooking classes, and going on day trips to islands. You would love the calm waters and shallow areas, which are perfect for families with young children (specifically Kata Noi), the good selection of resorts and hotels, and the lively yet manageable nightlife at Kata Yai. However, it may be slightly more expensive than Karon Beach.
2. Patong Beach: Good for water sports, exploring nightlife, shopping sprees, and day trips to nearby islands. You would love the energetic atmosphere, vibrant nightlife on Bangla Road, diverse restaurants and bars, and a wide range of shopping options including malls and markets. However, it can get crowded, especially during peak season.
3. Karon Beach: Good for relaxing on the beach, exploring the underwater world, surfing during the low season, taking cooking classes, visiting nearby temples like Wat Chalong, indulging in spa treatments, and exploring Karon Night Market. You would love the laid-back atmosphere, spacious beach with soft sand, excellent snorkeling and diving at the southern end, a variety of water sports, and family-friendly activities like Dino Park Mini Golf. However, the nightlife options are limited compared to Patong, and it may not be the most luxurious choice.

Elephants are deeply woven into Thai mythology and religious stories for their strength and intelligence, and Phuket is a popular destination to see Asian elephants. It has stunning views of beaches and jungles which are perfect for family to appreciate at their own pace, and interact with elephants in a humane way that prioritizes their well-being. Enjoy the time with your family and the giant gentle in Phuket.

Upon arrival at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket, savor a welcome snack while sipping tea or coffee and learning about elephants during an informative introduction. Get involved in the preparation of natural dietary supplements for the elephants before meeting these gentle giants. Feed them, administer supplements, and hear their inspiring stories while capturing memorable photos in their natural environment. Experience a unique mud spa session with the elephants, followed by a refreshing swim and shower in the specially constructed outdoor "Elephant Shower". After a delicious lunch of traditional Thai cuisine and seasonal fruit, engage in a fascinating "DIY Poop Paper" recycled paper activity before bidding farewell to the friendly elephants.

After learning about the elephants, observe the elephants, feed the elephants, shower the elephants, head back to your hotel, and enjoy your relaxing day freely. Overnight in Phuket.

Warm Tips:
1. Book in advance: Elephant sanctuaries are popular attractions, so it's important to book your visit in advance, especially during peak season.
2. Wear appropriate clothing: You'll likely be doing some walking and getting muddy, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
3. Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong in Phuket, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun.
4. Respect the elephants: Always follow the instructions of your guide and be gentle and respectful when interacting with the elephants.

Today is the perfect opportunity for a family day trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a wide range of relaxation and adventure activities, Phi Phi Island is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Thailand.

Renowned for its striking limestone cliffs, picturesque beaches, and pristine waters, the Phi Phi Islands consist of two main islands: Phi Phi Don (larger) and Phi Phi Leh (smaller). Day tours from Phuket often include visits to various islands, allowing ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and island exploration.

You won't miss the Maya Bay (no swimming), a world-famous beach, made iconic by the movie "The Beach," which boasts stunning turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and a beautiful crescent-shaped bay. You will have the chance to discover Pileh Lagoon, nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat. Take a refreshing dip in the emerald-green waters or explore the surrounding caves. Another notable site is the Viking Cave, home to colorful swallows and captivating rock paintings. When visiting Monkey Beach, observe the long-tailed macaques from a distance and keep an eye on your belongings, as these mischievous creatures are known to be curious.

Numerous snorkeling spots await you, teeming with marine life such as clownfish (Nemo), baby sharks (Maya Bay), turtles, coral reefs, and various other underwater creatures.

Warm Tips:
1.Choose the right tour: There are multiple Phi Phi Island day tours available from Phuket, so select one that aligns with your interests and budget.
2.Book in advance: Phi Phi Island is a popular tourist destination, especially from November to April, so it's advisable to book your day tour ahead of time.
3.Pack appropriately: Bring a swimsuit, beach towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and cash for souvenirs and snacks (not all tours include everything).
4.Consider seasickness medication: If you're prone to seasickness, it may be beneficial to bring appropriate medication, as the boat ride can sometimes be choppy.

Today is your Phuket Free Day. You can choose to do a Day Trip to James Bond Island (Optional).

Phuket has earned the nickname "The Pearl of the Andaman." There are numerous options available for you to enjoy its beaches and islands. After immersing yourself in the stunning beaches and iconic scenery by taking a tour to Phi Phi Islands from Phuket yesterday, today you can further enhance your experience by embarking on a tour to Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) for your family to seek dramatic landscapes, caves, and a cultural experience. Phang Nga Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also famous as Little Guilin, thanks to its breathtaking scenery of towering limestone karst formations that emerge from the emerald waters.

A day trip to James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan) from Phuket offers a chance to experience the dramatic beauty of Phang Nga Bay and see the iconic rock formation featured in the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun".

Board a larger boat and set sail for Phang Nga Bay in the morning, marveling at the surrounding landscape as you go. Some tours might include a breakfast or refreshments on board. You may visit Hong Island first for a Kayaking Adventure (Optional) to its stunning lagoon. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush vegetation there. You won't miss the highlight for today - the iconic James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan). Witness the awe-inspiring limestone rock formation jutting out of the emerald water, made famous by the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun." Capture stunning photos and soak in the beauty of this natural wonder.

Luch time will be at the Panyee Island (Koh Panyee Village). It is a great chance to gain a unique cultural experience at Koh Panyee Village, the famous floating village, built on stilts above the water, is home to a vibrant Muslim community. Explore the charming shops selling local souvenirs and handicrafts. Take a break for a delicious lunch at a floating restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local delicacies while experiencing the village's unique way of life.

After lunch, it is good to unveil the caves around Panak Island. Here, you'll embark on an exciting canoe adventure (Optional) through hidden mangrove forests. Explore the fascinating caves, including the option to see the Mangrove Cave, Bat Cave, Mut Cave, or Hoy Tib Cave. Be prepared to be amazed by the unique rock formations and the diverse ecosystem within the caves.

Finally, unwind on the pristine shores of Lawa Island. This secluded island boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing in paradise. Enjoy the calming turquoise waters and soak up the sun before your journey back to Phuket.

Warm Tips:
1.Choose the right tour: Day trips to James Bond Island vary in itinerary and duration. Some tours focus solely on Phang Nga Bay, while others may combine it with visits to other islands or activities. Choose a tour that suits your interests and time constraints.
2.Beware of crowds: James Bond Island is a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds, especially during peak season.
3.The specific attractions and order of visits may vary slightly depending on the tour operator, weather conditions, and tidal patterns.

Today is your Phuket Free Day. You can choose to do a Half-day Foodie tour to Phuket Old Town (Optional).

Phuket Old Town is a vibrant and historic district in Phuket. It's known for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful shophouses, delicious street food scene, and various cultural attractions.

Phuket Old Town is Foodie Paradise, offering a wide range of delicious Thai and Chinese cuisine. You can explore Phuket dishes such as Dim Sum, fresh spring rolls, satay skewers, Roti Canai, Khao Tom, and Moo Hong (Red Pork), as well as Tropical Fruits (juicy mangosteen, refreshing dragonfruit, or the unique sweetness of durian). You can also find numerous local restaurants serving regional specialties and fresh seafood dishes. You might try flavorful curries like Massaman or Panang, fragrant stir-fries, or delicious noodle dishes like Pad Thai or Khao Soi.

Phuket Old Town boasts a rich history dating back centuries. It thrived as a trading port due to its tin mining industry, and the architectural style reflects the influence of Chinese and Portuguese settlers. Exploring the streets is like stepping back in time and experiencing Phuket's fascinating past. The well-preserved Sino-Portuguese shophouses with their vibrant colors, intricate details, and ornate balconies are a visual treat.  You can discover hidden alleyways, charming cafes tucked away in courtyards, and unique shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Warm Tips:
1.Come Hungry: With all the delicious food you'll be sampling, it's best to come with an empty stomach to enjoy the experience fully.
2.Dress Comfortably: Walking tours involve exploring the streets, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the warm Phuket weather.
3.Cash is King: While some vendors might accept cards, carrying cash ensures you can try everything that tempts your taste buds.
4.Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

It is time to end your 7-day Thailand tour. You will have some free time in Phuket and explore more on your own till your guide or driver escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

Extension Ideas:
1.If you prefer to travel longer in Thailand, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of Thailand, such as Chiang Rai, Krabi, Koh Samui, etc.
2.If you plan to continue exploring neighboring countries in Southeast Asia or Asia, such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, India, Bhutan, or China, don't hesitate to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist with travel arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your Asia tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!