A 7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Thailand for December 2023

1. Day 1: Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok
   30 minutes (6 miles) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

   In the morning, explore the beautiful Grand Palace, a must-see attraction in Bangkok that boasts intricate Thai architecture and rich history. For lunch, grab some delicious street food at nearby Khao San Road. Spend the afternoon shopping at the nearby markets before heading to Wat Pho to see the famous reclining Buddha in the evening.

2. Day 2: Enjoy Beach Time in Pattaya
   2 hours (62 miles) from Bangkok

   Take a day trip to the coastal town of Pattaya for a day of fun in the sun. Head to Jomtien Beach in the morning for some water sports before grabbing lunch at a seaside restaurant. Spend the afternoon at Art in Paradise, a 3D art museum before heading back to Bangkok in the evening.

3. Day 3: Visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (46 miles) from Bangkok

   In the morning, head to the beautiful Elephant Jungle Sanctuary to spend a day with these gentle giants. You will learn about their history, help feed and bathe them and even have the opportunity to go on a peaceful elephant ride. Head back to Bangkok in the evening.

4. Day 4: Explore the Ancient Ruins of Ayutthaya
   1 hour 30 minutes (49 miles) from Bangkok

   Take a day trip to Ayutthaya to explore the ancient ruins of the capital of Thailand from the 14th to 18th century. Visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, and the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Grab lunch at a riverside restaurant before heading back to Bangkok in the evening.

5. Day 5: Discover the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai
   1 hour 10 minutes (37 miles) from Chiang Mai International Airport

   Take a flight to Chiang Mai in the morning and explore the city's famous night bazaar in the evening. Browse the stalls for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts before grabbing dinner at a street food vendor. End the night with a relaxing Thai massage.

6. Day 6: Visit the Doi Inthanon National Park
   1 hour 30 minutes (37 miles) from Chiang Mai

   Take a day trip to the beautiful Doi Inthanon National Park, which boasts the highest peak in Thailand. Visit the stunning Wachirathan and Mae Ya Waterfalls, explore the Royal Twin Pagodas, and admire the beautiful views from the summit of Doi Inthanon. Head back to Chiang Mai in the evening.

7. Day 7: Enjoy the Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium
   20 minutes (6 miles) from Chiang Mai

   In the morning, visit the Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium to see pandas, giraffes, zebras, tigers, and many other animals. The aquarium houses over 8,000 marine creatures including jellyfish, sea dragons, and sharks. For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant before exploring the Old City in the afternoon. End the day by watching a traditional Thai dance performance.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Bangkok, hiking to the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi, or going on a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands. To maximize your fun, consider hiring a private tour guide or renting a car so you have more flexibility and can avoid the crowds.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Grand Palace (3 hours, $15)
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (8 hours, $80)
• Ayutthaya Ruins (8 hours, $40)
• Flight to Chiang Mai (1.5 hours, $150)
• Doi Inthanon National Park (8 hours, $60)
• Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium (5 hours, $20)
• Total Estimated Costs: $365

For hotel and flight prices, check here.