7-Day Itinerary for Thailand in December 2023

1. Day 1: Bangkok
   Approximately 30 minutes (20 km) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

   Visit the Grand Palace in the morning to experience the beauty of traditional Thai architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Wat Pho temple where you can see the famous 46-meter reclining Buddha. Finish the day with a visit to the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market to buy souvenirs and try local street food.

2. Day 2: Ayutthaya
   Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (80 km) from Bangkok

   Explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the stunning Wat Chaiwatthanaram temple. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and enjoy the scenic views. Return to Bangkok in the evening.

3. Day 3: Chiang Mai
   Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (700 km) by flight from Bangkok

   Take a morning flight to Chiang Mai, also known as the "Rose of the North". Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple in the afternoon and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the mountain top. In the evening, explore the lively Night Bazaar for shopping and dining.

4. Day 4: Chiang Rai
   Approximately 3 hours (180 km) by car from Chiang Mai

   Visit the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in the morning, followed by the Black House (Baan Dam) museum in the afternoon. Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside and visit the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Return to Chiang Mai in the evening.

5. Day 5: Phuket
   Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (1,000 km) by flight from Chiang Mai

   Take a morning flight to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. Spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the Old Town where you can see Sino-Portuguese architecture and visit the local markets. In the evening, take a sunset boat ride to Phang Nga Bay to see the limestone cliffs and sea caves.

6. Day 6: Phi Phi Islands
   Approximately 2 hours by boat from Phuket

   Take a day trip to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands where you can snorkel, scuba dive, or simply relax on the beach. Visit Maya Bay, where the movie "The Beach" was filmed, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Return to Phuket in the evening.

7. Day 7: Bangkok
   Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (830 km) by flight from Phuket

   Take a morning flight back to Bangkok for your departure. Spend the morning shopping at Siam Paragon, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia. In the afternoon, visit the Jim Thompson House to learn about Thai silk and art. Depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport in the evening.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to the ancient city of Sukhothai or visiting the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes. To maximize your fun, try to catch a Muay Thai boxing match or attend a traditional Thai dance performance. Don't forget to try the local street food and indulge in a Thai massage!

To book your hotels and flights, please visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.