Best Thailand Tour – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai & Phuket – 12 days

Sawasdee ka! Welcome to Thailand!
Thank you for choosing our best Thailand tour! Upon clearing customs at Bangkok’s airport, your guide will greet you and escort you to the hotel in the heart of Bangkok.
The vibrant capital city Bangkok is renowned for its ornate shrines and lively street life. The boat-filled Chao Phraya River runs through the city, adorned with landmark temple spires, bustling ferry piers, glitzy high-rise hotels and malls, and charming restaurants. Once settled in at your hotel, the day is free for you to spend as you wish. Relax or explore your surroundings aboard a tuk-tuk, Southeast Asia's iconic three-wheeled auto rickshaw.
For dinner, indulge in some local street food at a night market or immerse yourself in the city's cosmopolitan dining scene at a chic restaurant. From classic Thai cuisine to global bites, there's something for everyone. You can also venture to Asiatique The Riverfront, a lively waterside mall with numerous eateries and a giant observation wheel, Asiatique Sky.
Tip: Bangkok has two airports – Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport. You can book a flight landing at either airport at any time according to your needs. Our guide will pick you up at airport according to your flight schedule. Both airports are not too far from the city center, and it takes 30 to 40 minutes to reach the hotel if there are no heavy traffic jams.

After breakfast, you will have a full-day tour to explore the highlights of the capital city Bangkok. First visit the Wat Traimit, known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha. It is the home to a gold Maravijaya Attitude seated Buddharupa statue, with a weight of 5.5 tons. Next, move on to the Wat Pho, it is one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Wat Pho houses the world’s largest reclining Buddha statue. Then comes the focus of today’s visit the Grand Palace complex, one of the must-sees in Bangkok. It was established in 1782 and consists of not only royal and throne halls, but also a number of government offices as well as the renowned Temple Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.

Later in the afternoon, board a long-tail boat for a scenic cruise tour along the Chao Phraya River and the vibrant inner canals of Thonburi, providing wonderful views of local life. Along the way, stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, in the middle of the temple, an 82m high beautifully decorated Khmer-style tower stands, where you can walk up the steep stairs and admire the view of Bangkok and the rivers. Evening free at leisure. Perhaps you could indulge yourself with a traditional Thai Massage, surprise your taste buds with the amazing local flavors and cap off the day by enjoying the sunset in any of the stylish rooftop bars which have blossomed in the city’s skyscrapers in recent year, the options are limitless.  Overnight in Bangkok.

Today embark on an excursion tour to visit Maeklong Railway and Floating Markets for a unique Thailand experience. You will be picked up from your hotel and drive about 1½-hour from Bangkok to the unique Maeklong Railway Market, also known as Talad Rom Hub, where stalls are set on the railway track. Witness merchants swiftly folding covers as trains approach, seamlessly resuming business afterward. Then, proceed to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Countless floating markets dot the country, with colorfully clad merchants paddling along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruits and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. This is an exciting and fun way to experience local life and go bargain hunting (You need negotiate aggressively or no buy). If it's the weekend, you will also be arranged to visit Tha Kha Floating Market (only open on weekends), an authentic market serving the local community for 30 years. It is one of the hidden gems around Bangkok, and you'll enjoy a rowing boat tour around the market for beautiful countryside views. Pass by salt farms, with a potential stop, noting that salt harvesting is best seen from February to May.
Note: The included boat tour is conducted at Tha Kha when visiting all 3 markets; otherwise, it takes place at Damnoen Saduak when exploring 2 markets. This tour is offered without a full lunch; however, we include several snacks, tropical fruits, and delicious noodle soup.

After breakfast, our guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and embark on a day trip to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam—a treasure trove of majestic palaces, ancient ruins, and rich history waiting to be discovered.

The drive to Ayutthaya will take about 1-1.5 hours. Your first stop will be the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a breathtaking complex situated beside the Chao Phraya River and formerly used by the Thai kings. Then, proceed to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, home to a large reclining Buddha. Enjoy a delicious Thai lunch at a local riverside restaurant.

In the afternoon, journey back in time to explore old Siam at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will lead you to impressive temple ruins, including Wat Maha That (famous for the Buddha statue head in a banyan tree), Wat Phra Sri Sanphet (once the most important temple in Ayutthaya), and Wat Lokkayasutha (known as the Temple of the Earth). Learn about the rich history and culture of ancient Thailand from your knowledgeable guide as you explore this fascinating site.
Outside the historical park, visit the iconic site Wat Chai Wattanaram, a temple built in the 17th century and modeled after Angkor Wat in Cambodia. After the Ayutthaya tour, your guide and driver will transfer you back to Bangkok. Stay overnight at Bangkok.


This morning, you will be dropped off at Bangkok airport to catch your one-hour flight to Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of northern Thailand. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, embark on a private tour with your guide to explore Chiang Mai.
Take in the cooler and calmer air of the mountainous and forested surroundings as you wander through the charming and laid-back atmosphere of Old Town. Visit Wat Phra Singh, a jewel among Chiang Mai's temples, known for its intricate and classical Lanna architecture. Additionally, explore Wat Chedi Luang, which stands out with its evocative 15th-century stupa.
In the late afternoon, venture to the hillside temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to witness a stunning sunset. Climb its iconic 306-step staircase, flanked by carved sea serpents and thick forest, leading to elaborate grounds with a massive golden chedi (stupa) and sweeping views of the surroundings. In the evening, follow the irresistible aromas to Chiang Mai's night bazaar on Chang Klan Road, where street food stalls and restaurants beckon. Indulge in the ultimate local dish, khao soi (coconut curry soup), and savor other northern Thai specialties.

Today, you will have a full-day excursion to the Happy Elephant Home, an ethical elephant sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of animals rescued from the tourist trade. Begin your day by engaging with the elephants, feeding them, and participating in washing activities. A home-cooked Thai meal will be provided for lunch, offering an authentic culinary experience.
Following lunch, accompany the elephants as they make their way to the river for a mud bath. If you wish to join in the fun, bring along a swimsuit for this refreshing and enjoyable experience. Spend the afternoon with these magnificent creatures before bidding farewell to your newfound pachyderm friends.
Later in the day, return to the sanctuary's camp and then transfer back to your hotel in Chiang Mai. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure in Chiang Mai.

Today, head over to our selected local Cooking School in Chiang Mai, a culinary workshop staffed by local chefs dedicated to teaching visitors the art of Thai cuisine. Upon meeting the expert instructors, you'll walk to a market and select the freshest produce and best ingredients. Then, return to the school to choose even more ingredients from the on-site organic garden before beginning the meal preparation.
Throughout this half-day experience, your chef/instructor will take you on a culinary journey to the heart of Thai cuisine as you prepare a traditional meal. At the end of the class, everyone will sit down to enjoy the delicious lunch you've prepared and capture plenty of photos. Later, return to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy Chiang Mai as you wish. Explore the local markets, visit any temples you may have missed, and savor more local culinary specialties. Or you can also make an excursion to Bua Thong Waterfalls (Nam Phu Chet Si) if you travel with kids, a great fun place for littles ones, swim around the clear water or climb the "sticky" limestone and enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery. Please not this is an optional tour, additional fee will be required.

This morning, a private transfer will take you to Chiang Mai airport for your short flight to Phuket. Upon landing in Phuket, an English-speaking driver will transport you to your accommodations. Over the next three days, you'll have the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Enjoy the flexibility to create your own schedule and make the most of your time on this beautiful tropical island. Whether it's relaxing on the beach, exploring local markets, or trying out water sports, Phuket has something for every traveler.

Today you might want to just enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the beach, and afternoon hop on a bus down to the southern tip of Phuket to watch the sunset at Cape Promthep.

Recommended Activities:
On your first full day in Phuket, you have the freedom to enjoy the perennial favorites – the beach, seafood, and refreshing drinks. However, consider seizing the opportunity to enhance your experience by taking an add-on boat excursion to the Phi Phi Islands, located in the spectacular Andaman Sea. Marvel at the impossibly beautiful emerald coves and limestone cliffs that make these islands a must-see destination. Various tour options are available, some of which include lunch at a beachfront restaurant and picturesque stops for swimming and snorkeling, accessible only by sea.
For those who prefer to stay on Phuket, explore the island's diverse beaches. Patong and Karon offer sandy stretches and upbeat party vibes, while Kata Noi and the untouched Mai Khao provide a quieter and more serene atmosphere. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the natural beauty of these coastal areas.
In the evening, immerse yourself in Phuket's vibrant nightlife. Explore the bustling scene with its array of bars, restaurants, cabarets, and even live Muay Thai boxing matches.

Recommended Activities:
Enjoy another free day in Phuket by exploring some of the lesser-known parts of the island. You might want to visit the tree-lined beach of Rawai or experience the tranquility of the more secluded Kamala. Laem Singh, with its palm tree-filled bay, is a popular spot that exudes the charm of a secret beach.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Phuket's vibrant Old Town, known for its colorful architecture and rich history. Consider a visit to the hillside Big Buddha, Phuket's most iconic architectural landmark, or take in panoramic views from a renowned overlook such as Karon Viewpoint.

Today is your last day in Phuket. You can choose to continue relaxing on the sunny beach or visit some of the places listed in the previous two days to explore Phuket's beauty. Alternatively, you may opt for a relaxing day by having a spa experience and enjoying an authentic Thai massage.

Today, you will fly back to Bangkok. Please pack your luggage after breakfast. Our driver will transfer you from the hotel to Phuket Airport according to your flight time. After a 1.5-hour flight, you will arrive at either Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang International Airport. This marks the end of our service, and we hope you enjoyed the trip!

Tips:
1. Please note that if you need a connecting flight from Bangkok to reach your home or your next destination, be sure to confirm which airport your flight departs from. The two airports are 40 to 50 minutes away by car, and you should allow at least an hour for the transfer. It's advisable to book a flight departing from Bangkok in the evening to ensure sufficient time for the connection.
2. If you desire an extension trip to neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos, or destinations on other continents, feel free to contact our travel consultants anytime.