en
- Boutique
- 20-day trip
- From €8,895 p.p.
Thailand trip | Family trip Thailand between temples and tropics
On this family trip, let yourself be taken on an unforgettable exploration of Thailand's colourful culture, breathtaking nature and warm hospitality. This trip takes you from the vibrant city life of Bangkok, past historic and green Kanchanaburi, to the charming and spiritual north in Chiang Mai. Visit floating markets, hike to the impressive Erawan Falls, immerse yourself in local traditions and learn to cook like a Thai. After these cultural and active discoveries, end the trip relaxed on the tropical island of Koh Samui. Enjoy pearly white beaches, crystal clear waters and unique excursions inspired by the popular series White Lotus. You will stay in luxury boutique hotels and resorts and the trip is packed with excursions and unforgettable experiences. Be surprised, amazed and pampered on this special journey through the land of smiles!
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Thailand
- Day 2 – 3 Highlights of Bangkok
- Day 4 – 5 Exploring Bangkok
- Day 6 Market visits & Kanchanaburi
- Day 7 Erawan National Park
- Day 8 – 9 Journey to Chiang Mai & Cooking workshop
- Day 10 Doi Inthanon National Park
- Day 11 – 12 Exploring Chiang Mai
- Day 13 Journey to Koh Samui
- Day 14 In the footsteps of the White Lotus
- Days 15–18 Ultimate relaxation on Koh Samui
- Day 19 Journey to Bangkok
- Day 20 Departure from Thailand
- Day 21 Arrival
Bangkok highlights
Welcome to Thailand, the Land of Smiles! Upon arrival at Bangkok Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative and taken to your hotel by private transfer. Here you can settle in comfortably after your flight.
The next day, you’ll begin your family holiday with a visit to the Grand Palace. This palace is quite an experience, offering not only splendour and grandeur but also a vivid insight into local culture. The palace and the neighbouring temples are situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. You’ll visit Wat Pho, where you can see the gigantic ‘Reclining Buddha’, and Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat trip through the canals (khlongs) of Thonburi, old Bangkok, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll also visit the Baan Silapin Artist’s House, a charming house by the canal.
Tips from the Travel Specialist
Casual summer clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For religious reasons, both men and women must wear long trousers or knee-length skirts, and shoulders must be covered at all times. Shoes must be removed before entering a temple.
Inclusief:
- Meet & Greet
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Excursion: "Highlights of Bangkok" including English-speaking guide, transportation and entrance fees on day 3
- Excursion: "Klong boat ride" including English-speaking guide on day 3
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Exploring Bangkok
These two days are all about exploring dynamic Bangkok further! On day 4, you’ll have the day free to wander around Bangkok. In the evening, you’ll discover the real Bangkok during a tuk-tuk adventure through Chinatown. You’ll explore Yaowarat Road, famous for its colourful neon signs and bustling street stalls. Amidst the aromas of spices and traditionally prepared dishes, you’ll sample unique local specialities and learn the stories behind them. A fantastic opportunity to make new culinary discoveries and even learn a bit of Thai.
The next day, you’ll go on a cycle tour through the ‘jungle’ of the Bangkok peninsula. You’ll start the day with a long-tail boat ride from Klong Toei Pier across the Chao Phraya River to a surprisingly green peninsula, known by locals as Bangkok’s ‘Green Lung’.
Cycling through the countryside with the skyscrapers in the background, you’ll visit the botanical garden at Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and cycle through the villages of Bang Krachao. Your cycle tour ends at the pier, where you’ll return to the ‘mainland’ of Bangkok by long-tail boat.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
The cycle route is flat, covering a distance of 10–12 kilometres, and takes around 3 hours.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: "Explore Chinatown by tuktuk" in the evening including English-speaking guide on day 4
- Excursion: "Bicycle tour Bangkok Peninsula" including English-speaking guide including lunch at a local restaurant on day 5
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Market visits & Kanchanaburi
Early in the morning, you’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby and be taken to the Damnoen Saduak floating market – still one of Thailand’s most popular destinations. Here, you can watch countless boat vendors trading their wares. Part of the attraction is the enormous variety of vegetables, fruit, traditional sweets, drinks and more.
You’ll then continue to the old fishing harbour of Samut Songkram, famous for its colourful Maeklong Market. Maeklong Station is situated right in the middle of this huge local market, which is usually teeming with people. In front of the station, vendors use the space between the tracks to display their baskets of fruit, vegetables and fish. Your guide will walk with you through the market alongside the tracks. It’s amazing to see what happens when a train arrives!
You will then be taken to Kanchanaburi, where you’ll arrive around midday. You’ll have the rest of the day free to spend as you wish. The town offers a mix of history, nature and culture. Be sure to visit the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, a historic symbol of the Second World War, and the Hellfire Pass Museum.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: "Markets of Bangkok" including English-speaking guide, transportation, and entrance fees
- Private transfer to Kanchanaburi
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Erawan National Park
This morning is all about the stunning Erawan National Park, famous for its emerald-green jungle and the impressive Erawan Waterfall, which cascades down in seven tiers. This waterfall is one of the most beautiful in Thailand and is an absolute highlight of the park.
You’ll be taken to the park, where you’ll go on a walk with your guide to the famous waterfalls. Here, the crystal-clear water flows over smooth rocks, forming bright blue pools. A refreshing dip in the calm water is almost irresistible after the climb – perfect for relaxing and recharging your batteries before you walk back.
As well as its natural beauty, the park also houses well-preserved remains of an ancient Khmer-style temple complex dating from the 12th century; a silent testament to the influence of the Khmer Empire in South-East Asia. Afterwards, you’ll be taken back to the hotel and will have the afternoon at your leisure.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: "Erawan National Park" including English-speaking guide, transportation and entrance fees
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Trip to Chiang Mai & cooking workshop
You’ll be taken by private transfer to Bangkok Airport, where you’ll board your domestic flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your English-speaking guide and taken to your hotel. For the next few days, you’ll be staying at the delightful boutique hotel Raya Heritage, which will immediately make you feel at home in this beautiful city.
The next day, you’ll have a fun cookery class on the programme! The excursion begins with a visit to the local market, where you’ll learn how to choose the perfect ingredients for delicious Thai dishes. The expert chef will then demonstrate how to prepare each dish, after which you’ll get to work preparing your own creations. All your carefully prepared dishes will then be served to you for lunch. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Optional tour: Inspiring retreat at Doi Suthep & blessing from a monk
In the afternoon, meet your guide and driver and drive up the ancient Doi Suthep, one of the highest hills in the Chiang Mai area. At the summit lies the temple of the same name, one of the city’s most spiritual sites. Here you’ll enjoy a special experience: a private blessing from a monk, followed by the monks’ impressive chanting. A magical moment that will stay with you for a long time to come. As the sun sets and the sky fills with warm colours, you’ll enjoy the view of the temple, which almost seems to float between heaven and earth. Afterwards, you’ll return to Chiang Mai.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Bangkok - Chiang Mai
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Excursion: "Chiang Mai cooking workshop" including English-speaking guide and lunch on day 9
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Doi Inthanon National Park
Today you’ll spend the day in Doi Inthanon National Park, famous for its cool climate, lush natural surroundings, countless waterfalls, various hill tribe communities and, last but not least, Thailand’s highest point (2,565 metres)! The park offers a humid, natural environment with well-maintained gardens and is a paradise for nature lovers, perfect for walks with breathtaking views of the mist-shrouded mountains.
The waterfalls in the park are impressive, as are the tranquil and picturesque temples perched high in the mountainous landscape. During your exploration, you can spot colourful butterflies and songbirds. You’ll also get to sample the local coffee and meet some of the Karen hill tribes who live on the mountain slopes. At the end of the day, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
The temperature in the nature reserve is often pleasantly cool, which is a welcome change from the hot lowlands. Don’t forget to pack some warm clothes, though!
Inclusief:
- Excursion: 'Full-day tour Doi Inthanon National Park' including English-speaking guide, transport, entrance fees and lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Explore Chiang Mai
On day 11, you can take a moment to reflect on all the experiences so far and enjoy a day at leisure in Chiang Mai. Relax at the hotel, or explore the city. Visit beautiful temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep with its views over the city, and explore the ancient city walls, lively night markets and the bustling Nimmanhaemin area.
The following day, after breakfast, you’ll travel to the countryside surrounding Chiang Mai. You’ll spend the day in a local community where you’ll learn more about the history, culture and daily life of the locals. There will be plenty of opportunity to get actively involved. You’ll learn all about rice production and have the chance to take part in the process, such as planting or harvesting rice (depending on the season). Throughout the day, you’ll get to know the locals, enjoy delicious dishes and meet the local buffaloes. A fun and educational experience for young and old alike!
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Optional tour: Introduction to Muay Thai
You’ll visit a local gym for a fun and accessible introduction to Muay Thai – the famous Thai martial art. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you’ll learn the basic movements and discover just how versatile and refined this ‘art of the eight limbs’ is. In a safe and energetic setting, you’ll not only experience the technique, but also discover just how enjoyable and intense Muay Thai can be as a workout. An active and cultural experience all in one!
Inclusief:
- Excursion: "Live like a local Chiang Mai" including English-speaking guide on day 12
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Travel to Koh Samui
The journey continues to the idyllic south! A private transfer will take you to Chiang Mai Airport for your domestic flight to the island of Koh Samui, situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and taken to your hotel.
You’ll be staying for the next 6 days at the fantastic Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort; a luxury five-star resort on the tranquil Bophut Beach on Koh Samui. The resort offers stylish rooms with modern Thai décor, a tropical garden, an infinity pool and an award-winning spa. Here, you can enjoy culinary experiences at restaurants such as Thin Tai and Guilty, and take part in activities such as yoga, cookery classes and snorkelling. The resort is within walking distance of the lively Fisherman’s Village and offers the perfect blend of relaxation and culture.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Chiang Mai - Koh Samui
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
In the footsteps of the White Lotus
Today, you’ll discover a different, mysterious side of Koh Samui, inspired by the popular series *White Lotus*. Your first stop is Wat Phu Khao Thong, a peaceful Buddhist temple, famous for its intricate Thai architecture and serene atmosphere. Admire the beautifully ornate façade and the green dragon sculptures guarding the steps.
Next, you’ll visit Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha, where the imposing Buddha statue dominates the hilltop and offers you a magnificent view across the island. The journey then continues to Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, a charming coastal village with a unique mix of traditional wooden shops and modern eateries and bars.
Enjoy lunch at a tranquil farm-style restaurant, set amidst lush gardens. The day ends with a relaxing stop at Pi Samui Beach Club on Choeng Mon Beach for a refreshing drink.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: "White Lotus Koh Samui" including English-speaking guide, transportation and lunch at farm restaurant
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Ultimate relaxation on Koh Samui
You’ll have these days at your leisure on Koh Samui. Enjoy a wonderfully relaxing stay at your comfortable hotel, visit the island’s beautiful beaches or set off to explore Koh Samui further.
Optionally, we can book various tours for you, such as a tour on a private longtail boat where you can explore the idyllic bays and stunning snorkelling spots of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. Or discover the authentic side of Koh Samui on a pleasant cycle ride through local villages and green countryside, far away from the hustle and bustle.
Inclusief:
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Travel to Bangkok
You will return to Bangkok today. By private transfer, you will be transferred to Koh Samui airport where you board the domestic flight back to Bangkok. On arrival, you will be transferred to the same hotel where you stayed at the beginning of the trip. Enjoy your last evening in Thailand here!
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Koh Samui - Bangkok
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Riva Surya Bangkok
Ideally located in the vibrant Khao San district, Riva Surya offers a perfect base for your exploration of Bangkok. This modern boutique hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, an elegant restaurant, a swimming pool and further recreational facilities. The hotel is bordered by cultural treasures,...
Ideally located in the vibrant Khao San district, Riva Surya offers a perfect base for your exploration of Bangkok. This modern boutique hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, an elegant restaurant, a swimming pool and further recreational facilities. The hotel is bordered by cultural treasures such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. In addition, the hotel is conveniently located by the river, allowing you to move quickly through the city centre via the Chao Phraya Express boats.
Your stay: 4 nights
The Xcape River Kwai
X2 River Kwai is located on the banks of the Kwai Noi River with a spectacular view and backdrop of mountain ranges and blue sky. It is also close to many famous tourist attractions, including the Bridge over the River Kwai, the WWII Museum and Art Gallery, Don Rak War Cemetery and the...
X2 River Kwai is located on the banks of the Kwai Noi River with a spectacular view and backdrop of mountain ranges and blue sky. It is also close to many famous tourist attractions, including the Bridge over the River Kwai, the WWII Museum and Art Gallery, the Don Rak War Cemetery and the Thai-Burma Railway Museum. The resort comprises 22 rooms, including a Luxury Cabin, Xfloat Cabin Suite, Luxury Cabin Suite, PoolXide Cabin, PoolXide Cabin Suite and Xfloat Luxury Cabin. Each room is equipped with a TV, a minibar, a safe, internet access and a private bathroom. Other amenities include a restaurant overlooking the river, an outdoor terrace and a riverfront infinity pool with loungers and sunbeds.
Your stay: 2 nights
Raya Heritage
Raya Heritage is a resort in Chiang Mai, surrounded by lush gardens just steps from the banks of the tranquil Ping River. Each suite room features a seating area, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms also have a private pool. The resort facilities...
Raya Heritage is a resort in Chiang Mai, surrounded by lush gardens just steps from the banks of the tranquil Ping River. Each suite room features a seating area, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms also have a private pool. Resort facilities include a spa, a restaurant, a fitness centre and a swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy half-day and full-day excursions, including trips to temples and markets, village and national park visits, elephant experiences, jungle walks, rock climbing and rafting.
Your stay: 5 nights
Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
Located on a quiet beach, the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort offers guests luxury combined with world-renowned Thai hospitality. Enjoy water sports by the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand while staying at one of Koh Samui's most elegant resorts. Relax in the sun at the...
Located on a quiet beach, the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort offers guests luxury combined with world-renowned Thai hospitality. Enjoy water sports by the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand while staying at one of Koh Samui's most elegant resorts. Relax in the sun by the infinity pool with stunning sea views or on Bophut's tranquil beach.
Your stay: 6 nights
Riva Surya Bangkok
Ideally located in the vibrant Khao San district, Riva Surya offers a perfect base for your exploration of Bangkok. This modern boutique hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, an elegant restaurant, a swimming pool and further recreational facilities. The hotel is bordered by cultural treasures,...
Ideally located in the vibrant Khao San district, Riva Surya offers a perfect base for your exploration of Bangkok. This modern boutique hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, an elegant restaurant, a swimming pool and further recreational facilities. The hotel is bordered by cultural treasures such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. In addition, the hotel is conveniently located by the river, allowing you to move quickly through the city centre via the Chao Phraya Express boats.
Your stay: 1 night
Experiences
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Train Market
Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market with your private guide. Behold countless boat vendors trading their products from their boats.
Then continue to the old fishing port of Samut Songkram, known for its colourful Maeklong Railway market. Maeklong railway station is at the centre of this...
Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market with your private guide. Behold countless boat vendors trading their products from their boats.
Then continue to the old fishing port of Samut Songkram, known for its colourful Maeklong Railway market. Maeklong Railway Station is at the centre of this huge, local market, which is usually packed with people. In front of the station, vendors use the space between the railway tracks to sell their baskets of fruit and vegetables. Walk along the track with your guide until the train arrives!
Destinations
Kanchanaburi
The capital of Kanchanaburi province is easily accessible from Bangkok and is home to many natural and cultural activities. Highlights of the area include Wat Tham Phu Wa, a Buddhist temple complex, and the bridge over the River Kwai, which was built by Allied POWs as part of the Thai-Burma Railway during the Japanese occupation in World War II. Many men lost their lives during the construction of this infamous 'Death Railway', whose famous bridge offers fantastic views of mountains, steep cliffs, lush jungle and winding waterways.
Erawan National Park
A natural jewel nestled in the Tenasserim Hills range of Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand, Erawan National Park is an oasis of natural beauty. Its centrepiece, the awe-inspiring 7-tiered Erawan Falls, graces the landscape with emerald green ponds. The park boasts impressive caves, some concealed within its depths and others lining its roads. The park's appellation draws from the mythical three-headed white elephant, with the falls' upper tier resembling an elephant head. Mixed deciduous forests dominate the park's verdant expanse marked by limestone hills, plains, and coursing streams. Diverse wildlife abounds, from common crab-eating macaques and wild boars to rarer Assam macaques, barking deer, elephants, gibbons, and Indochinese serows. Erawan National Park's rich biodiversity extends to its avian inhabitants, with approximately 120 bird species, including crested serpent eagles, kalij pheasants, and great hornbills.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is located in northern Thailand and is home to the country's highest mountain. The park has many spectacular waterfalls that are especially popular during the rainy season. It is also one of the best destinations for birdwatchers, with 362 bird species in the forest. For hikers, there are numerous trails with breathtaking views of the mountains and forest. The royal pagodas have beautiful architecture and are a favourite destination for tourists from all over the world.
Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is an always dynamic travel destination, famous for its cultural offerings, vibrant nightlife and rich choice of dining options - which range from bustling street markets to very upscale restaurants. Cultural highlights include the Emerald Buddha at Wat Pho, a boat trip on the 'Klongs' (canals) and the Grand Palace. For shopping, visit the tourist hub of Khaosan Road.
Thailand
Thailand, fondly known as 'the land of smiles', is often associated with beautiful golden sands, palm-fringed beaches, warm aquamarine waters, glorious temples and verdant jungle-clad mountains. With 16 million foreigners flying into the country every year, Thailand is Southeast Asia's premier travel hub, with a diverse range of attractions and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether exploring the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, relaxing on the tropical beaches of the southern islands, diving in the underwater wonderland off the coast of Koh Tao, jungle trekking in the north, or discovering the ancient cities of Chiang Mai, Thailand is filled with attractions to satisfy every interest.
Chiang Mai
Thailand’s northern capital is smaller and quieter than Bangkok. A stroll through the beautiful historic city centre takes you past the many magnificent temples, markets and shops. Other highlights include a visit to the trendy Nimmanhemin district, with its chic bars and shops, and a trip to Doi Suthep. From the serene temple at the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Northern Thailand
Northern and Southern Thailand were once two different countries - Lanna and Siam - and the two regions still reflect many differences, including in local cuisine, culture and traditions. Chiang Mai, the 'Rose of the North' and the regional capital is home to beautiful Buddhist temples, historic city walls and lush mountainous surroundings. Other major attractions of the North include Mae Hong Son, with diverse ethnic influences, the city of Chiang Rai, with its magnificent white temple and the tranquil river town of Pai, with its natural hot springs, emerald rice paddies and jungle-overgrown mountains.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of Thailand's most popular beach destinations. Beautiful idyllic beaches, azure waters and good accessibility from the mainland. You will find a nice range of luxury hotels and resorts - often with quiet private beaches. The coastline is the main attraction but you can also visit the 12-metre-high Big Buddha temple, the 30-metre-high Na Muang waterfall or one of the luxury spas.
Surat Thani Province
Surat Thani is a rural province on the Gulf of Thailand. The province includes some of Thailand's most popular attractions, including: Khao Sok National Park, Ang Thong National Marine Park and the famous islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. The port city and regional capital of the same name, Surat Thani, serves as a jumping-off point and gateway to these spectacularly scenic islands. Visitors can look forward to a wide range of wonderful activities, such as island hopping, snorkelling through colourful reefs teeming with marine life, diving, lazing on idyllic beaches, sampling local Thai food at a number of bustling street markets and running around. Other popular activities include hiking, swimming in waterfalls and enjoying a range of adventure activities.
Southern Thailand
Southern Thailand known for turquoise waters, pearly white palm beaches, majestic limestone formations and idyllic tropical islands. Visitors can enjoy world-class beaches and delicious local cuisine full of fresh seafood. Spectacular snorkelling or diving in one of the marine parks, or visiting Khao Sok National Park is also among the options.
Gulf of Thailand
Surrounded on three sides by Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the serene waters of the Gulf of Thailand are home to an array of the country's most popular, beautiful and accessible islands. Known for its impeccable full moon parties, Koh Pha Ngan is also home to charming jungles, waterfalls and temples. Koh Samui boasts world-class luxury resorts and spas. Koh Maak and Koh Wai are lined with sublime white-sand beaches and provide a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere. Hua Hin offers a family-oriented destination with its variety of activities, including pony rides, kite surfing and banana boat rides, as well as fantastic restaurants, bars, shops, spas and golf courses. Koh Tao is ideal for snorkelling and diving. Kho Si Chang is a small charming island with an interesting town and beautiful temple.
Thailand trip | Family trip Thailand between temples and tropics
We offer this trip from €8,895 per person, based on a group of four.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to availability and the travel period, amongst other factors.
Included
• Domestic flights
• Accommodation in excellent and unique lodges and hotels
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including a tuk-tuk tour in Bangkok, a visit to the Erawan Falls and the White Lotus excursion on Koh Samui
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Cycling tour of the Bangkok Peninsula
• Cooking workshop in Chiang Mai
• ‘Live like a Local’ Chiang Mai excursion
Not included
• International flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)