Highlights
- Sample northern Thai cuisine with a street food tour
- Cuddle up to the elephants in Chiang Mai
- Relax in paradise on Ko Samui's beaches
- Sail away to James Bond Island
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai |
| Day 2 | Pottery Village Visit & Workshop, Street Food Tour | Chiang Mai |
| Day 3 | Visit an Elephant Sanctuary | Chiang Mai |
| Day 4 | Fly to Ko Samui, Relax & Explore | Ko Samui |
| Day 5 | Ang Thong Marine Park Boat Tour, Sail to James Bond Island | Ko Samui |
| Day 6 | Unwind on Ko Samui's Beaches | Ko Samui |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Samui Airport, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Chiang Mai
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand! Arrive in Chiang Mai, the country's fourth-largest city nicknamed the "Rose of the North" for its natural beauty, fascinating Lanna culture, historic temples, and vibrant food scene. A private transfer will take you to your accommodation. Settle in, and if you and the kids have energy after the flight, explore the city's quaint Old Town, where you can relax with a cold drink, treat the kids to ice cream, and soak up the laidback atmosphere.
Day 2: Pottery Village Visit & Workshop, Street Food Tour
Spend today getting your bearings in Chiang Mai and discover the easy-going artistic charm of the city and the surrounding area. Start with a trip to a local pottery village, where you and the kids will find traditional Lanna houses made from teak wood. As you stroll the town, admire the colorful pottery displays outside the homes. You and your family will get to try crafting your own ceramic souvenirs as you visit a workshop, meet local artisans, and learn how to make pottery using traditional techniques.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Wat Lok Molee temple and listen to the moving chant of the Buddhist monks. If you'd like to, receive a blessing, and then stroll to Chang Puek Gate and explore the lively street food market filled with an array of tasty northern Thai dishes to suit a range of curious appetites. Kids will make a beeline for the authentic Thai sweets, including fried doughnuts, coconut tarts, banana spring rolls, and sticky mango rice.
Day 3: Visit an Elephant Sanctuary
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Fly to Ko Samui, Relax & Explore
Thailand is famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise seas, and swaying palms, and your next destination, the island of Ko Samui, is the beach destination of dreams. After your flight, check in to your hotel and get down to the very serious business of relaxing. If the kids are restless, there are plenty of water activities available. Check out the beaches, relax by the pool, arrange a trip to the lush mountainous rainforests, or kayak in the crystal clear waters.
If you're feeling peckish, an excellent family-friendly option is Kob Thai. A short walk from the town center, the restaurant is set in peaceful gardens with a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for families. Relax with a drink while the younger ones explore the surroundings as you enjoy some well-deserved downtime.
Day 5: Ang Thong Marine Park Boat Tour, Sail to James Bond Island
After breakfast, take a transfer to the pier and get ready for a day of marine adventure as you spend the day sailing the Ang Thong Marine Park. An archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand, the area is known for its beautiful landscapes and abundant marine life. Cruise around the islands, stop at Talay Nai ("Emerald Lake"), with its lush mountain backdrop, and enjoy a relaxing lunch on the beach.
Afterward, head to the famous James Bond Island, named because of its set location in the Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun." Join the kids for a swim, snorkel the coral reef, and marvel at the tropical fish or take a guided kayak tour. As the sun sets, return to Ko Samui, where you'll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy an evening of great food as you and the kids reflect on the trip's highlights so far.
Day 6: Unwind on Ko Samui's Beaches
It's your last day in beautiful Ko Samui, and the day is yours to do as much or as little as you choose. Make the most of your time in Thailand with a visit to another of the island's beaches. Chaweng or Lamai are perfect spots to lie in a hammock, snorkel with the kids and enjoy the island's relaxed vibe. Make your way to Bophut if you want to hit the shops, or if the kids are after more aquatic adventures, book a boat tour to snorkel the beautiful Ko Nang Yan. As the sun dips, head to your favorite restaurant and enjoy your last night on the island.
Day 7: Transfer to Samui Airport, Depart
Sadly, it's your family's last day in Thailand. After breakfast, transfer to Samui airport and catch your flight home. Safe travels!
More Great Thailand Itineraries
Map
