If you're heading to Thailand and seeking the ideal 7-day itinerary, you've come to the right source!
To assist you in planning your trip, I have curated two itineraries spanning 6, 7, or 8 days, tailored to your arrival airport (Phuket or Krabi). These itineraries focus on the southern region of Thailand and will enable you to explore the stunning islands of the Andaman Sea, renowned for their idyllic beaches.
In this comprehensive travel guide, not only will you discover the top attractions to visit, but you'll also find a curated selection of accommodations suitable for various budgets. Additionally, I'll be sharing my invaluable tips to ensure you maximize your experience during your stay!
7 Days in Thailand: The Best Itinerary
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| How to plan 7 days in Thailand? |
Now, let's delve into the ultimate highlights and activities for an unforgettable 7-day adventure in Thailand.
Itinerary: 7 days in Thailand from Phuket
1) Phuket (3 days)
To begin this suggested 7-day itinerary in Thailand, your arrival point would be Phuket.
Phuket boasts an international airport that offers numerous direct flights daily from various destinations, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the southern region of the country. You can compare flight prices for Phuket towards the end of this guide.
Upon arrival at the airport, located in the northern part of the island, you have several transportation options available, including buses, taxis, or private transfers . The choice between heading to Phuket Town or Patong will depend on the location of your booked hotel:
If you wish to be in the heart of the tourist area and explore the most popular beaches, Patong is the ideal destination.
For convenient access to the ferry terminals serving other captivating Andaman Sea islands such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, Phuket Town is the more suitable choice.
On this first day in Phuket, it's recommended to take some time to relax and recover from the flight and potential jet lag. A visit to Patong Beach would be a perfect way to unwind.
Despite its bustling atmosphere, you'll still find ample space along the 1.2-kilometer stretch of sand to lay out your towel. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the azure waters, or indulge in one of the numerous water activities available, such as parasailing or tubing.
As the day draws to a close, make your way to Bangla Road in Patong. This bustling street is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring an array of shops, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it the liveliest area in Phuket.
One of the highlights on Bangla Road is the captivating ladyboy show, showcasing incredibly beautiful and meticulously dressed ladies who are, in fact, men. The Simon Cabaret hosts the most famous show of this kind in Phuket.
Due to its immense popularity, it's crucial to book your tickets in advance, as the venue is packed every night.
If you're seeking an extra dose of excitement for your first night in Phuket, attending a Muay Thai boxing match is a must. As Thailand's national sport, it permits a wide range of punching techniques.
You'll also find boxing matches in Patong, and it's advisable to secure your tickets in advance, as the local Thai people have a great affinity for this sport.
Enjoy your overnight stay in Phuket.
On the second day of your 7-8 day journey in South Thailand, dedicate your time to further exploring Phuket, particularly the Eastern Zone encompassing Phuket Town and its surrounding areas.
If you're staying in Patong, you have convenient options to reach the East Zone, including taking a bus or renting a scooter. Phuket Town, being the island's capital, boasts excellent connectivity.
Alternatively, you can opt for a well-organized and comprehensive guided tour that covers the essential attractions, ensuring you don't miss out on any must-see spots.
Make sure to take a leisurely stroll around the captivating old town, where you'll encounter numerous buildings and houses constructed in the vibrant Portuguese Sino style, impeccably restored to their former glory. The area exudes a delightful charm and offers a pleasant ambiance.
Here are some highlights to explore during your walk:
- Thalang Road: This bustling street is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with its array of local craft shops and inviting cafes.
- Thai Hua Museum: Dive into the history of Phuket by visiting this museum, which provides fascinating insights into the island's past.
- The Blue Elephant Mansion: This esteemed establishment is renowned for its traditional Thai cooking classes, offering a unique culinary experience.
- The Shrine of Serene Light: Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this Chinese temple, an architectural gem.
- The Clock Tower: Don't miss the distinctive Clock Tower, which should not be confused with the famous one in Chiang Rai. It adds character to the town's landscape.
- The Phuket Museum: Housed in the Old Standard Chartered Bank building, this museum offers a glimpse into Phuket's rich cultural heritage.
- Phang Nga Road: Admire the vibrant street art that adorns Phang Nga Road, adding an artistic touch to the area.
- Bang Niew Shrine: Visit this revered shrine and embrace the spiritual atmosphere it offers.
Exploring these attractions will provide you with a deeper appreciation of the old town's unique charm and cultural significance.
Next, make your way to Monkey Hill, a location that lives up to its name as it's home to hundreds of monkeys. These playful creatures have become accustomed to human presence and have one primary expectation: food.
The scene is well-organized, with vendors selling bananas and groundnuts strategically scattered throughout the area.
Besides observing the monkeys, you can venture up the hillside path to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire island.
Speaking of panoramic views, while you're in Phuket Town, take the opportunity to visit the Khao Rang Hill Viewpoint, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking vista of the entire city.
En route, don't forget to make a stop at Wat Khao Rang Temple, where you can admire the majestic golden Buddha statue that graces the premises.
Conclude your day with a relaxing beach visit and spend another night in Phuket.
As for your final day in Phuket, you have a range of options to choose from, depending on your preferences:
- 1) Take a day trip to Koh Phi Phi to discover the best known island of Thailand.
- 2) Take a trip to the Similan Islands, one of the most beautiful diving and snorkelling spots in the world.
- 3) Spend a morning in an elephant sanctuary to feed and wash them
Or take a Thai cooking class to discover the secrets of an excellent Pad Thai or panang curry
In the afternoon, you can stay at the beach or enjoy a some sporty activities like azipline at the most famous park in Phuket.
- 4) Rent a scooter and visit the southern part of the island:
- Wat Chalong
- The Big Buddha
- The Karon View Point
- The Nai Harn Beach
- The Windmill Viewpoint and Yanui Beach
- Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape
- Spend one last night in Phuket.
2) Another southern island (3 days)
For the next part of your 7-day journey in Thailand, depart from Phuket and venture to another enchanting island in the southern region. There are a couple of convenient options accessible by boat:
Koh Yao Noi: This unspoiled island remains untouched by mass tourism, offering a serene and idyllic setting for a relaxing vacation.
Koh Lanta: Comparatively more popular and bustling than Koh Yao Noi, Koh Lanta boasts stunning beaches and a vibrant atmosphere.
Option 1: Koh Yao Noi (3 days)
Koh Yao Noi can be reached from Phuket in just a quick 30-minute boat ride. The departure point is the Rang Bang Pier located in the northeast of the island. To get there, you can take a taxi from your hotel, and the cost for boat trips is approximately 300 Bahts.
Upon arriving at Koh Yao Noi, shared taxis are available to transport you to various hotels on the island. The fare for this service is typically around 100 Bahts per person.
On your first day in Koh Yao, it is highly recommended to rent a scooter, which costs approximately 250-300 Bahts per day. This will allow you to easily explore the island's most beautiful beaches and take refreshing swims whenever you desire.
Enjoy your first night on the picturesque island of Koh Yao Noi.
The following day, it is highly recommended to embark on a captivating excursion to the Four Islands, which personally remains my favorite trip during my own Thailand vacation.
These islands truly showcase magnificent landscapes, boasting exquisite beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's an idyllic opportunity to indulge in picturesque surroundings and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
During this excursion, you'll have the chance to explore:
- Koh Ka Mit, also known as Monkey Island due to its abundant monkey population.
- Koh Pak Bia, featuring a stunning beach adorned with wooden swings.
- Koh Lao Lading, an ideal spot for swimming and observing colorful fish.
- Koh Hong, with its expansive sandy beach enveloped by towering cliffs.
All hotels in Koh Yao Noi offer this enticing trip, so make sure to secure your booking a day in advance. The cost for the boat tour is approximately 2,500 Bahts, which can be divided among the participants joining the excursion.
After a day filled with awe-inspiring island exploration, spend another delightful night on the enchanting Koh Yao Noi.
On the last day at Koh Yao, you have a choice:
1) Take a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island.
Similar to the previous day's excursion, you will embark on a boat journey to explore the captivating islands of the bay. However, this particular itinerary doesn't involve swimming activities; instead, it focuses on stopping at various locations to capture breathtaking photographs amidst the sublime landscapes.
One of the most renowned islands on this day trip is James Bond Island, famous for being featured in the film "The Man with the Golden Gun." Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to engage in kayaking adventures through the caves, adding a touch of excitement to the experience.
The tour also includes a visit to Koh Panyee, a remarkable floating market where you can indulge in delicious food and purchase souvenirs to commemorate your 7-day stay in South Thailand.
The cost for this boat tour is approximately 4,500 Bahts per boat, which can be divided among the passengers joining the excursion.
2) Take cooking classes in the morning at Mina’s Cooking Classes or at The Paradise Koh Yao.
In the afternoon, I highly recommend renting a kayak to explore the beautiful island of Koh Yao from the serene waters of the sea. This allows you to have a unique perspective and experience as you navigate the island's coastlines and discover hidden coves and enchanting beaches. Renting a kayak provides you with the freedom to leisurely explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds Koh Yao.
3) Spend a day in Koh Yao Yai.
The nearby island, although bigger in size, offers even greater seclusion from tourists. With only a handful of hotels, you can discover untouched beaches where you can enjoy complete solitude.
It is a quick 10-minute boat ride away from Koh Yao Noi.
Extend your stay for one more night on this island to fully immerse yourself in its tranquility and experience the serenity of its unspoiled surroundings.
On the following day, it is regrettably the conclusion of your 7-day journey in Thailand. Return to Phuket by boat and then arrange for a taxi ride (approximately 700 Bahts) to reach the airport.
Option 2: Koh Lanta (3 days)
If you prefer to continue your 7-day itinerary in Thailand by visiting Koh Lanta instead of Koh Yao Noi, here is a suggested schedule for these 3 days!
To reach Koh Lanta from Phuket, you will need to take a ferry to the Rassada port, located near Phuket Town. It is recommended to inquire at your hotel to make the reservation for you, as they may be able to negotiate discounted rates.
For instance, we managed to secure a fare of 700 Bahts instead of the 1000 Bahts listed on the booking website.
The journey to Koh Lanta typically takes 2 hours: firstly, a boat ride to Koh Phi Phi (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes), followed by another boat ride to Koh Lanta (around 1 hour and 15 minutes).
If you prefer a quicker and more direct option to reach Koh Lanta, you can consider taking a speedboat. However, it's important to note that the number of available seats on speedboats is limited. Therefore, it is advisable to make your booking in advance to secure your spot for the journey.
During the boat journey, you will have the opportunity to arrange your transfer to your hotel. It is recommended to take advantage of this option as it does not cost any more than arranging transportation separately upon arrival. The rate for the transfer may vary depending on the location of your hotel on Koh Lanta.
In the afternoon, it is highly recommended to rent a scooter and explore the stunning west coast of the island, where the most beautiful beaches are located. You can visit multiple spots for swimming and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. As you head further south, you will find fewer people, offering a more serene experience.
If you prefer not to rent a scooter, you can still visit the beach closest to your hotel and enjoy the relaxation and beauty it offers.
On the second day of your stay in Koh Lanta, it is highly recommended to embark on the unforgettable 4 islands trip. This excursion is widely regarded as the best tour available on the island.
Prepare to be amazed by the sheer beauty of the islands, offering plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and swimming among vibrant marine life.
The itinerary includes:
- Koh Chuek: A stop for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the underwater world.
- Koh Waen: Another snorkeling spot where you can witness the beauty of the marine ecosystem.
- Koh Muk: This island houses the renowned Emerald Cave, which was once a hidden refuge for pirates.
- Koh Ngai: Here, you can relax on a stunning beach with powdery sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
For an all-inclusive price of 1000 Bahts per person, you will have access to snorkeling equipment, transportation from your hotel to the port, lunch, and refreshing drinks. This ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Third and last day on Koh Lanta, you have a few choices:
1-Embark on another exciting boat trip to discover the enchanting island of Koh Rok during your stay in Koh Lanta.
Koh Rok is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and pristine beaches, making it a must-visit destination. The tour will provide you with an opportunity to explore the island's picturesque surroundings and engage in various activities.
You can expect:
Scenic boat ride: Enjoy a pleasant journey on a boat as you make your way to Koh Rok, taking in the stunning coastal views along the way.
Snorkeling adventure: Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Koh Rok and marvel at the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Snorkeling equipment will be provided to enhance your experience.
Beach exploration: Set foot on the beautiful sandy shores of Koh Rok and spend some time relaxing, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the pristine beaches.
Island discovery: Take a walk around the island and immerse yourself in its natural wonders. Explore the lush vegetation, unique rock formations, and hidden coves that make Koh Rok a true tropical paradise.
The boat trip to Koh Rok typically includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and sometimes even a delicious lunch. The cost may vary, so it's advisable to check with tour operators or your hotel for the most up-to-date information and to make advance reservations.
2) Explore Koh Lanta:
Experience the wonders of the mangrove forest by embarking on a kayaking or longtail boat tour from Tungyeepeng port.
Immerse yourself in the incredible world of elephants by visiting an elephant sanctuary on Koh Lanta.
Discover the charms of Koh Lanta Noi, the neighboring island, by renting a scooter and exploring its hidden gems.
Embark on your first diving adventure at one of the many reputable diving centers on the island, where you can explore the mesmerizing underwater world.
Unleash your culinary skills by joining a cooking class at "Cooking with Mon" and learn to prepare delicious Thai dishes.
Step back in time and explore the historic old town of Koh Lanta, known for its traditional wooden houses and unique cultural heritage.
Discover the natural wonders of Koh Lanta by visiting the Khao Mai Kaew Caves or the Tiger Cave, where you can witness impressive rock formations and intriguing cave systems.
Immerse yourself in nature at the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife.
For a comprehensive list of the best things to see and do in Koh Lanta, refer to our article titled "What are the top attractions and activities in Koh Lanta?"
On the final day of your 7-day Thailand trip, take a boat back to Phuket and make your way to the airport for your departure.
Itinerary: 7 days in Thailand from Krabi
1) Krabi (3 days)
Here is an alternative 7-day itinerary in South Thailand, starting in Krabi.
Krabi province is situated on the other side of Phuket, towards the Andaman Sea. It offers an international airport, making it an excellent base for exploring southern Thailand. However, keep in mind that reaching Krabi might involve a flight to Bangkok followed by a connecting flight to Krabi.
To find the best flight prices for Krabi, you can utilize our flight comparison tool located at the end of our article.
Upon arrival at Krabi airport, your destination is Ao Nang, the primary tourist area of the province and where you will be staying. Several options are available to reach Ao Nang from the airport, including taking a shuttle (approximately 150 Bahts), hiring a taxi (slightly over 1000 Bahts), or booking a group transfer (starting from 280 Bahts). With the group transfer, a driver will be waiting for you upon your arrival.
Remember to plan your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Enjoy the remainder of the day unwinding at Ao Nang Beach, a spacious sandy shoreline that offers the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after your long flight and adjust to any time difference. If you prefer a more secluded and serene atmosphere, Noppharat Thara Beach, situated a bit further, provides a wilder and less crowded setting.
Rest and recharge for the night in Ao Nang, embracing the tranquility of the area.
On the following day, embark on an exploration of one of Krabi province's most exquisite destinations: Railay.
To reach Railay, simply board a boat from Ao Nang Beach. The round-trip fare amounts to 200 bahts, and the journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
No prior booking is necessary; you can conveniently purchase your boat ticket on the same day from the beach shack. Boats frequently depart and arrive throughout the day.
Upon arriving at Railay, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and pristine beaches. It's important to note that the area tends to attract large crowds due to its popularity.
Railay West Beach, the beach where you disembark, and Phra Nang Beach are the two most stunning beaches in the vicinity. These expansive shores feature soft sand, majestic karst cliffs, and lush forests. Besides swimming, you can also rent kayaks and paddle boats for added enjoyment.
An area with bars and restaurants awaits, offering a variety of culinary options.
For the more adventurous individuals, consider embarking on the ascent leading to the Railay Viewpoint. This climb, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes and involves the use of ropes, rewards you with a truly awe-inspiring vista.
If you have a penchant for heights, Railay is renowned as one of Thailand's premier destinations for rock climbing, boasting an impressive array of over 700 climbing routes.
2) Koh Lanta (3 days)
To continue your 7-day sojourn in Thailand, it is recommended to depart from Krabi and venture to the scenic southern island of Koh Lanta.
To reach Koh Lanta, you'll need to embark on a boat journey, which typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of the boat trip amounts to approximately 350 Bahts per person. Upon arrival, a shared taxi service will be available to transport you to your hotel. The fare for the shared taxi is comparable to those offered upon arrival, so you can accept the service or even negotiate a bit.
For the remainder of the day, it is highly recommended to rent a scooter and explore the western coast of the island, where the most beautiful beaches are located. Detailed information about these beaches can be found in the article titled "The beaches of Koh Lanta."
Spend the night on Koh Lanta, enjoying the island's serene ambiance.
On the second day, it is imperative to embark on the highly recommended 4 islands trip from Koh Lanta. Although it shares the same name as the one in Krabi, the trip offers a distinct experience as the islands visited are different.
Similar to the Krabi excursion, this trip also includes diving stops where you can marvel at an abundance of fish and coral. You will have the opportunity to explore the following islands:
Koh Chuek
Koh Waen
Koh Muk
Koh Ngai
