Essential Thailand

4.3Based on

Carbon neutral

12 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

48 peopleMaximum group size

5 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Bangkok, Thailand

Ends

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Highlights

Visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace

Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, the War Cemetery, the infamous Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Kwai

Visit the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park

Visit Wat Rong Khun - the White Temple

Feel refreshed in the natural hot springs

Visit the Night Market and the temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang

Itinerary

Dive into a tapestry of contrasts on the Essential Thailand trip, a 12-day adventure that weaves together Bangkok’s electrifying cityscape with the tranquil green hills of the north. Ideal for families and mature travelers, this easy-paced group tour leads you through Khao Sok, Andaman, Sukhothai, and other iconic destinations. Experience bustling street markets, peaceful rural villages, and a fascinating blend of ancient and modern culture. With comfortable accommodations, seamless transport, and meals included, this guided tour package is a comprehensive introduction to Thailand’s diverse charms. The USP is its expertly balanced itinerary, offering both vibrant urban exploration and serene escapes—perfect for those who want it all in one memorable journey.

day 1 - Arrive Bangkok

Sawadee ka' and welcome to Thailand! Your trip will kick off in buzzy Bangkok, an urban wonder boasting all the soaring skyscrapers and glistening malls of any capital city, but with a distinctly Thai touch. Here you can see it all; orange robe-clad monks strolling the streets with smartphones in hand, while glowing temples and neon-lit bars co-exist peacefully side by side. At your hotel, you'll meet up with your Travel Director to get a glimpse of what's to come on your Thailand value tour, then dinner tonight will have you sampling some of Thailand's tasty cuisine while you get to know your fellow travellers.

Meals:Dinner

Location Visited:Bangkok

Accommodation:Galleria 10

day 2 - Bangkok Sightseeing

Get ready for a full day of sightseeing in Bangkok. We'll show off Bangkok's best cultural and spiritual delights, starting at Wat Pho, Bangkok's most ancient temple. Set eyes on the hugely impressive Reclining Buddha, the largest in Thailand, before moving on to the Grand Palace, a former royal residence. The intricate architecture of this massive complex never ceases to amaze and be sure to see the jewel in its crown, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. We'll make a pit stop for lunch at a local restaurant then you may choose to board a private boat and take to the maze of canals (klongs) that snake through the city. Kick back and enjoy the ride as you pass by traditional stilted family homes and soak up the quiet river lifestyle of those who work and live on the water. Still keen for more?

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

Location Visited:Bangkok

Accommodation:Galleria 10

day 3 - Bangkok Free Day

Today is all yours to explore Bangkok your way and the adventures are limitless. Want to check out the markets? You can find flower species of every shape, colour and origin at the lively Pak Klong Talad (Bangkok flower market), while the charming streets of Chinatown are the perfect place to munch on street food and shop for jade. If you love architecture, you'll likely choose to join our trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the former capital city of Thailand. We'll make a stop along the way at the stunning Bang Pa Summer Palace, then continue on to Ayutthaya, an archaeological hotbed of temples, monasteries and statues that offer a glimpse into the glory days of this ancient land. We'll head back to Bangkok on a cruise and enjoy a buffet lunch as you watch the local life go by along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This afternoon, you can join our optional visit to Jim Thompson's House, an exquisite example of traditional Thai residential architecture, where you'll find an incredible collection of Asian art.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Bangkok

Accommodation:Galleria 10

day 4 - Bangkok - Kanchanaburi

Its goodbye Bangkok and hello Kanchanaburi town today, where well jump straight into the action with a visit to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, and the War Cemetery where over 6000 prisoners of war were laid to rest. Next up, we'll pause for lunch then see the infamously named Death Railway, before boarding a local train for a ride with a difference. Gorgeous views over the river and a journey across wooden viaducts will keep your camera busy, as will the next and final stop for today the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. Our hotel is just a short distance from here, where well dine as a group this evening.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location Visited:Bangkok, Kanchanaburi

Accommodation:Felix River Kwai Resort

day 5 - Kanchanaburi Free Day

With a completely free day today on your Thailand tour package, Kanchanaburi town is yours to explore your way. Those keen to take it easy can rest up at the hotel and take advantage of the spa facilities, or perhaps youll take the opportunity to explore the town and its surroundings. This adventure will begin with a visit to Hellfire Pass, a 500 metre long and 26 metre deep section of rock that was dug by Prisoners of War with nothing more than picks, rocks and their bare hands, to allow for the construction of Death Railway. Fuelling up on a yummy lunch then transfer you back to the hotel.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Kanchanaburi

Accommodation:Felix River Kwai Resort

day 6 - Kanchanaburi - Sukhothai

Well be up bright and early this morning to travel north to Sukhothai. The Thailand essentials just keep on coming and along the way we have a treat in store, with a visit to Bhutsaya Khiri Suvarnabhumi, or Rock Buddha. This impressive carving of a seated buddha, masterfully etched out of the hillside, was only finished in 2019 and is a true sight to behold. Stopping for a local lunch en route, well arrive into Sukhothai later this afternoon, then dinner tonight will be a group affair.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location Visited:Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai

Accommodation:Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park Resort

day 7 - Sukhothai Sightseeing and Free Time

Being famed as the birthplace of Thai civilisation is a pretty big reputation to uphold, but Sukhothai does it with ease. Still historically significant to this day, well start our adventures today with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park, where well get to explore the centuries old temples and palace ruins. History itch scratched, this afternoon will then be yours to explore as you wish. Hungry to learn more about Thai cuisine? Our optional cooking class is there for all the budding chefs amongst you. Youll start this foodie adventure by learning about the unique herbs and spices of Thailand courtesy of your host, then put the farm to table craze into action by using these ingredients to make a signature Thai dish, such as Pad Pak Bung Fai Daeng. And the best part? You get to eat your tasty creation for dinner.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Sukhothai

Accommodation:Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park Resort

day 8 - Sukhothai - Chiang Rai

Start your day with a scenic stop at Khaw Phayao Lake, a peaceful spot locals love for sunrise views. Then, get ready to be wowed at the shimmering Wat Rong Khun Chiang Rais famous White Temple. After that, dive into a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience, exploring the eco-friendly art of indigo dyeing. Learn how villagers use natural plants and handwoven cotton to create beautiful, sustainable textiles and even craft your own piece to take home. After a day full of colour and culture, its a short drive into Chiang Rai where well check in, freshen up and enjoy a relaxed dinner together.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location Visited:Sukhothai, Mueang Chiang Rai

Accommodation:Wiang Inn

day 9 - Chiang Rai Free Time

Today is free for you to explore Chiang Rai as you choose. You may wish to journey to the heart of the Golden Triangle. This optional adventure includes hopping aboard a boat that will take you cruising along the mighty Mekong River to the exact spot where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), and Laos meet. Youll have time to step ashore in Laos and head into the Don Sao Island markets, where you can browse the handicrafts and local snacks on offer. Its the only part of Laos that can be visited without a visa, so make the most of it! Next, well stop for lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the self-proclaimed edutainment Hall of Opium, a fascinating museum that reveals an incredible 5,000 years of history. The state-of-the-art exhibitions, harrowing accounts, and even a tiny opium plantation all tell a vivid story of the conflicts, rituals, and abuse that have stemmed from opium, a trade that once ruled the Golden Triangle in the past century.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Mueang Chiang Rai

Accommodation:Wiang Inn

day 10 - Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai

Whos ready to dip their toes in some bubbling hot springs? We hope all of you, as our first stop today en route to Chiang Mai, are the lovely Mae Kachan Hot Springs. Feeling refreshed, well grab lunch in a local restaurant before travelling on to the laidback city of Chiang Mai. Sprawling in size but with a historic centre that has managed to retain the charm and pace of a low-key country town, Chiang Mai is also THE place for temple exploring. So, guess what well be doing this afternoon? You got it! Well be exploring both Wat Phra Singh temple, which was built in 1345, and Wat Chedi Luang temple, a charming wooden creation famous for its huge Lanna style chedi. This evening, prepare to discover the charm of Chiang Mai by night as we head out to visit the citys iconic night markets.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

Location Visited:Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Accommodation:The Empress

day 11 - Chiang Mai Free Day

Your day your way is what today is all about, and with it being your last day, be sure to make the most of it.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Chiang Mai

Accommodation:The Empress

day 12 - Depart Chiang Mai

Your incredible journey through Thailand's cities, rivers, mountains, temples and markets has come to an end. You've encountered diverse cultures, tasted all kinds of Thai foods and experienced the warmth of Thai hospitality and we're sure you'll be leaving with the iconic Thai smile on your face!

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Chiang Mai

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What's Included

Accommodation

Cherrypicked hotels, all tried and trustedOn occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised

Meals

Many meals and daily breakfasts included

Transport

Luxury airconditioned coach

Guide

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Others

City orientation toursAudio Headsets provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiencesExtensive variety of Choice Experiences

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Essential Thailand

4.3

based on 3 reviews

Tour Availability

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