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7-Day Thailand: Phuket, Phi Phi & Koh Samui Islands + Bangkok New Year Celebration (Dec 24–Jan 2)

Viewed by 78 travelers
Day 1 · Wed, Dec 24
Phuket

Arrival in Phuket — Settle in & Beachside Evening

Morning:

Arrive at Phuket International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Patong or Kata — check in, freshen up, and grab a light breakfast at a beachside cafe such as The Coffee Club (Patong) or a local spot serving Thai breakfast noodles. Take a short orientation walk along the shore to stretch your legs and get your first glimpse of Andaman Sea blue, or explore the nearby viewpoints like Karon Viewpoint if you have time before lunch.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon easing into island time with a relaxed beach session at Kata Noi or Freedom Beach — swim, sunbathe, and try a casual snorkeling taster near the rocks if conditions allow. For a taste of local life, head to Phuket Old Town for a late-afternoon wander: admire Sino-Portuguese architecture, pop into colourful cafes like Raya Restaurant for a coconut iced tea, and browse boutique shops selling local crafts.

Evening:

Return to the coast for a seaside dinner at a beachfront restaurant such as Mom Tri's Kitchen (Kata) or La Gritta (Patong) to enjoy fresh seafood and sunset views over the Andaman. After dinner, stroll along Bangla Road if you want lively nightlife, or choose a quieter evening cocktail on a rooftop bar like Baba Nest to relax and mentally prepare for tomorrow's ATV or paragliding adventure.

Day 2 · Thu, Dec 25
Phuket

Phuket Adventure Day — ATV & Paragliding or Snorkeling

Morning:

Kick off the day with an adrenaline-packed ATV tour through Phuket’s jungle and rubber plantations—many operators run half-day routes from Kata or Kamala that include hilltop viewpoints and muddy trails (book with Phuket Quad or Freedom Adventure). If you prefer water over dirt, swap to a morning snorkeling trip from Rassada Pier to nearby coral spots around Coral Island (Koh Hey) to see parrotfish and vibrant reefs instead.

Afternoon:

After lunch back near your hotel, head to Nakalay or Big Buddha viewpoint for panoramic photos, then choose a tandem paragliding flight from Karon Beach for bird’s-eye views of the Andaman coastline—companies like Phuket Hang Gliding offer safe, guided flights for all levels. If you spent the morning snorkeling, continue with a guided sea-kayak or paddleboard session along quieter bays to explore hidden coves and mangrove edges.

Evening:

Wind down at sunset with a seafood dinner at Kan Eang@Pier near Chalong Bay, watching longtail boats drift home as you toast the day’s adventures. For a lively post-dinner option, stroll Bangla Road for nightlife or return to a quieter rooftop bar such as Café del Mar Phuket or Baba Nest for cocktails and a relaxed view of the glittering coastline.

Day 3 · Fri, Dec 26
Phi Phi Islands

Transfer to Phi Phi — Maya Bay & Island Hopping

Morning:

After an early breakfast, take the speedboat from Rassada Pier (book a 8:00-9:00 sail) and enjoy the 90-minute transfer to Phi Phi Don, watching limestone karsts rise from the Andaman Sea. On arrival, drop bags at your beachfront bungalow in Tonsai or Loh Dalum Bay, then join a half-day island-hopping tour that heads straight for Maya Bay and the iconic photo stops at Viking Cave and Pileh Lagoon.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon snorkeling the clear shallows around Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach with a guided small-boat excursion — look for colorful parrotfish and clean coral gardens, and have a beachside picnic lunch prepared by your boat crew. If sea conditions allow, cliff-jumpers can try the safe, supervised spots near Tonsai Village, or take a short hike up to Phi Phi Viewpoint for sweeping panoramas of the twin bays as the light softens.

Evening:

Return to Phi Phi Don for sunset drinks on Loh Dalum Bay, then dine at a seaside restaurant such as Anna's Restaurant or Cosmic for fresh Thai seafood and grilled fish. After dinner, stroll the lively beachfront strip for bars and fire-dancer shows, or choose a quieter night sipping a cocktail on your bungalow's terrace while listening to waves — a calm contrast after two busy days in Phuket.

Day 4 · Sat, Dec 27
Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi — Full Beach Day & Water Activities

Morning:

Wake up to the gentle sound of waves and enjoy breakfast at your bungalow or at a beachfront cafe on Tonsai Bay before heading out for a relaxed morning swim at Loh Dalum Bay — the calm, shallow water is perfect for easy snorkeling close to shore. If you’re up for it, join a guided kayak tour that paddles around the bay and into hidden coves, giving you a quiet, early-morning view of the limestone cliffs and chance encounters with small reef fish.

Afternoon:

After a light lunch at Anna’s Restaurant or Cosmic, book a half-day boat trip to Bamboo Island and the snorkel-rich shallows near Rang Yai for colorful corals and parrotfish; many local longtail operators include snorkeling gear and a beachside picnic. Alternatively, try a short guided scuba refresher or an introductory dive from Phi Phi Don to explore deeper reefs and swim through schools of tropical fish — perfect continuation after yesterday’s island-hopping highlights.

Evening:

Return to Phi Phi Don in time for a sunset climb to Phi Phi Viewpoint for sweeping golden-hour panoramas, then reward yourself with fresh grilled seafood at the beachfront restaurants along Tonsai Village. As night falls, enjoy the lively atmosphere with fire-dancer shows and chilled cocktails on Loh Dalum’s sand, or choose a quieter rooftop bar to reflect on the trip before tomorrow’s transfer back to Phuket and onward to Koh Samui.

Day 5 · Sun, Dec 28
Koh Samui

Travel Phuket → Koh Samui — Island Arrival & Orientation

Morning:

After breakfast in Phuket, catch your pre-booked transfer (speedboat or flight via Phuket → Koh Samui) and enjoy coastal views as you travel — if flying, aim for a morning seat on Bangkok Airways for scenic island approaches. On arrival at Koh Samui Airport or Nathon Pier, transfer to your hotel in Chaweng or Bophut, check in, drop your bags, and take a short stroll along Chaweng Beach to stretch your legs and sample a fresh coconut or local breakfast at Coco Tam’s or The Larder.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon orienting yourself with a relaxed island loop: visit the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) for the iconic statue and harbor views, then stop by Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) for boutique shops and a light lunch at The Hut or Coco Tam’s beachfront bar. If time and energy allow, pop into Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks for quirky coastal photo-ops or book a 2-3 hour snorkeling trip to Koh Tao/Koh Nang Yuan departures to preview tomorrow’s bigger island tour.

Evening:

As evening falls, wander Fisherman’s Village Walking Street (if your timing matches) to sample street-food bites like grilled seafood and pad thai, then enjoy sunset drinks at a beachfront bar such as The Larder, Nikki Beach Club or Ark Bar (Chaweng) depending on your vibe — relaxed or lively. Finish the night with a quiet beachside dinner at Barracuda Restaurant (Bophut) or a sunset seafood barbecue before turning in early for the full Koh Samui exploration planned tomorrow.

Day 6 · Mon, Dec 29
Koh Samui

Koh Samui — Complete Island Tour: Beaches, Snorkeling & More

Morning:

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, then join a full-day island tour that departs from Chaweng Pier — first stop is Koh Tao/Koh Nang Yuan where you’ll snorkel crystal-clear waters, swim with schools of tropical fish, and stand on the famous sandbar at Nang Yuan for postcard views. The guided snorkel session includes mask, fins and a knowledgeable local guide who points out parrotfish, clownfish and healthy coral gardens.

Afternoon:

After a beachside picnic lunch on Koh Tao, the boat will cruise to nearby snorkel spots and quieter beaches around Koh Phangan for more swimming or a short guided reef walk at Thong Sala if tides allow; return to Koh Samui mid-afternoon and take the island-loop route visiting the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) and the spectacular Na Muang Waterfalls for a refreshing dip. If you prefer land-based adventure, swap the afternoon reef stops for a half-day ATV excursion through jungle trails and rubber plantations around the island, finishing with panoramic views at Lad Koh Viewpoint.

Evening:

Head back to Fisherman’s Village in Bophut for sunset drinks at The Larder or Coco Tam’s beachfront bar, then enjoy a relaxed seafood dinner at Barracuda or dining stalls on the walking street — sample fresh grilled prawns and a spicy som tam. Finish the night with a moonlit stroll along Bophut Beach or a chilled cocktail at Nikki Beach Club if you want a lively vibe before tomorrow’s leisurely morning and travel to Bangkok.

Day 7 · Tue, Dec 30
Travel (Koh Samui → Bangkok)

Koh Samui Leisure Morning → Travel to Bangkok

Morning:

Take a slow, indulgent morning on Koh Samui to savour the island—enjoy a beachfront breakfast at Coco Tam’s or The Larder in Bophut, then wander Fisherman’s Village for last-minute boutique shopping and a final coconut or Thai iced coffee. If you prefer nature, visit the nearby Na Muang Waterfalls for a short dip or stroll to Lad Koh Viewpoint for panoramic shots before you check out of your hotel.

Afternoon:

Midday, transfer to Koh Samui Airport for your flight to Bangkok (aim for an early afternoon Bangkok Airways or similar flight) and relax with scenic island views as you leave the Gulf of Thailand; on arrival at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang, check into your Bangkok hotel and drop off luggage. Use the late afternoon to reorient—take a short BTS/MRT ride to CentralWorld for an easy walkaround and a light meal at one of the eclectic food floors or cafes to fuel up for the evening.

Evening:

Tonight, ease into Bangkok’s energy with dinner at ICONSIAM or EmSphere depending on your hotel location—choose riverfront dining at ICONSIAM for sunset Chao Phraya views or lively international eats at EmSphere for a vibrant urban vibe. After dinner, if you have the energy, stroll through nearby streets or head to a rooftop bar (e.g., Octave or Park Society) to toast your island-to-city transition and preview the big New Year’s Eve celebrations ahead.

Day 8 · Wed, Dec 31
Bangkok

Bangkok Highlights — Shopping, Chinatown & NYE at ICONSIAM/CentralWorld

Morning:

Start your New Year’s Eve with a relaxed shopping-and-cafe morning at ICONSIAM — browse Thai designer boutiques, sample artisanal snacks at the SIAM Takashimaya food hall, and step outside to admire the Chao Phraya views from the riverside promenade. If you prefer a more local vibe, hop over to nearby Talad Noi for colourful street art and old-shophouse charm before returning to freshen up for the afternoon.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon exploring Chinatown (Yaowarat): feast on street-food classics like fresh seafood at T&K Seafood or peppery noodle soups at Nai Mong Hoi Thod, duck into gold-lined Wat Traimit to see the Golden Buddha, and stroll the alleyways where herbal shops, traditional bakeries and neon signs create an electric atmosphere. After a late lunch, pop into CentralWorld for last-minute party supplies, trendy fashions and a coffee break while you recharge for tonight’s festivities.

Evening:

For NYE choose between two iconic experiences: celebrate riverside at ICONSIAM with upscale dining, live performances and riverside fireworks views, or join the massive street-and-countdown party at CentralWorld/Pathum Wan where DJs, large screens and a carnival atmosphere lead to a midnight spectacle. Whichever you pick, arrive early to secure a good vantage point, enjoy a celebratory Thai seafood dinner or street snacks, and soak up the joyful countdown energy as Bangkok rings in 2026.

Day 9 · Thu, Jan 1
Bangkok

Bangkok Fun Parks — Siam Amazing Park & Jurassic World Experience

Morning:

Start the year with high-energy fun at Siam Amazing Park — arrive early to beat queues and dive into rides like the Vortex and Log Flume, or if you prefer water thrills head straight for the Wave Pool and water slides for a refreshing morning. Grab a casual brunch at the park’s Riverside Café or a Thai-style fried rice from one of the food stalls to refuel between rides.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to Jurassic World The Exhibition at Siam Discovery (or the booked venue) for immersive encounters with life-like dinosaurs, interactive displays and photo ops — the exhibit’s animatronics and AR experiences make for memorable close-ups and great souvenirs. If time allows, stroll through nearby Siam Square for boutique shopping and a coffee break at Gallery Drip to contrast theme-park energy with Bangkok’s trendy youth culture.

Evening:

Wind down with a relaxed dinner back near your hotel or at EmSphere’s varied restaurants — try modern Thai at Greyhound Café or comfort food at Roast to recap the day’s highlights. Finish the night with a gentle riverside walk or a rooftop cocktail at Park Society or Octave to toast the new year and prepare for your final shopping and departure tomorrow.

Day 10 · Fri, Jan 2
Bangkok

Last-minute Shopping (EmSphere/ICONSIAM) & Departure

Morning:

Savour a relaxed final Bangkok morning with breakfast at your hotel, then head to EmSphere for a last round of stylish gifts and Thai designer pieces — stop by EmQuartier’s Helix Garden and specialty boutiques, and pick up premium snacks or packaged Thai teas at the gourmet food halls. If you prefer riverfront shopping, make a brief detour to ICONSIAM to browse SIAM Takashimaya for artisan souvenirs and detachable travel-size skincare sets before returning to the hotel to pack.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at ICONSIAM’s riverside dining terrace or EmSphere’s food court—try boat noodles or a final plate of green curry and mango sticky rice—then use the afternoon to reconfirm your airport transfer and squeeze in any last-minute purchases at the mall duty-free counters. If time allows, take a short walk along the Chao Phraya promenade outside ICONSIAM for a final view of the river and refreshing coconut water before heading back to collect your luggage.

Evening:

Depart for Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang with plenty of time for check-in; if your flight is later, relax with a pre-flight Thai massage at the mall spa or unwind with a light dinner at one of the airport lounges or EmQuartier’s casual eateries. Leave Bangkok with one last rooftop or riverside memory—a toast to an island-and-city adventure well spent as you head home.

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