Exploring Bangkok, Krabi, and Phuket - Family Friendly Itinerary
Wednesday, December 27, 2023: Arrival in Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok! Start your trip with a visit to the Grand Palace in the morning. Marvel at the intricate design of Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In the afternoon, take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and explore the historic sites along its banks. Finish the day with a stroll through the vibrant markets of Chinatown in the evening.
Grand Palace: Approximately 500 THB ($16) per person, 2-3 hours
Chao Phraya River Boat Tour: Approximately 300 THB ($10) per person, 2-3 hours
Chinatown Markets: Varies based on purchases, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kuppa, a cozy cafe known for its excellent coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 THB per person.
For lunch, head to Supanniga Eating Room and savor traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist. Try their famous Khao Soi and enjoy the warm ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 300 THB per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Nahm, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Thai cuisine. Sample their signature dishes like coconut and turmeric curry of blue swimmer crab. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 THB per person.
Thursday, December 28, 2023: Bangkok Cultural Immersion
Immerse your family in Thai culture at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in the morning. Explore the vibrant market stalls and try delicious street food. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) and indulge in a traditional Thai massage. For the evening, enjoy a fun-filled night at Safari World, where you can see exotic animals and enjoy thrilling shows.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Approximately 500 THB ($16) per person, 2-3 hours
Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho): Approximately 100 THB ($3) per person, 1-2 hours
Safari World: Approximately 1,200 THB ($38) per person, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, start your day with a visit to Banyan Tree Café which offers a variety of Thai and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 THB per person.
For lunch, head to The Local Restaurant for authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 400 THB per person.
For dinner, dine at Thiptara, a riverside restaurant serving delicious Thai dishes with stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. Average cost for a meal is about 800 THB per person.
Friday, December 29, 2023: Relaxing in Krabi
Fly from Bangkok to Krabi. Once you arrive, head to Railay Beach in the morning for a day of relaxation. Soak up the sun, swim in the turquoise waters, and admire the stunning limestone cliffs. In the afternoon, take a long-tail boat to the nearby Phi Phi Islands and explore the beautiful beaches. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach and savor the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Railay Beach: Free, full day
Phi Phi Islands Tour: Approximately 1,500 THB ($48) per person, 5-6 hours
Seafood Dinner: Varies based on restaurant choice
Restaurants
A delicious breakfast spot in Krabi is called The Coffee Club. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as eggs benedict, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about ฿300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Gecko Cabane. This restaurant serves a mix of Thai and Western cuisine, with menu items ranging from pad Thai to burgers and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal at Gecko Cabane is about ฿400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience in Krabi, head to The Last Fisherman. Located on a secluded beach, this restaurant offers a romantic setting and specializes in fresh seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal at The Last Fisherman is about ฿800 per person.
Saturday, December 30, 2023: Island Adventures in Phuket
Hop on a ferry from Krabi to Phuket in the morning. Once you reach Phuket, visit Patong Beach and indulge in various water sports activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, or parasailing. In the afternoon, explore the Old Phuket Town to discover its rich cultural heritage and colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. For the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the coastline.
Patong Beach: Free, full day
Old Phuket Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunset Cruise: Approximately 1,000 THB ($32) per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Café del Mar: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café del Mar, located near Patong Beach. This beachfront restaurant offers a wide range of breakfast options to kickstart your day in Phuket. Average cost for a meal is about 300 Thai Baht per person.
No.9 Restaurant: For a delightful lunch experience, head to No.9 Restaurant in Old Phuket Town. This cozy restaurant serves a mix of Thai and international dishes, perfect for satisfying your midday cravings. Average cost for a meal is about 500 Thai Baht per person.
Blue Elephant Restaurant: Treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner at Blue Elephant Restaurant, renowned for its sophisticated ambiance and exquisite Thai cuisine. Located in an elegant Sino-Portuguese mansion, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 Thai Baht per person.
Sunday, December 31, 2023: New Year's Eve Celebration in Phuket
Spend your last day in Phuket preparing for the New Year's Eve celebrations. Start the day by visiting the Big Buddha, a famous landmark with stunning panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the lively Patong Beach area, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. As the evening approaches, join the New Year's Eve festivities along the beach and enjoy the fireworks and lively atmosphere.
Big Buddha: Free, 1-2 hours
Patong Beach: Free, full day
New Year's Eve Celebrations: Varies based on activities chosen
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Club Kata Beach. This cozy cafe offers a wide selection of breakfast options, including omelettes, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150-250 baht per person.
For lunch, head to No.6 Restaurant & Bar located in Patong Beach. This modern restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, from burgers and pizzas to Thai curries and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 300-500 baht per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Baan Rim Pa Patong, an elegant restaurant known for its authentic Thai cuisine and stunning ocean views. Try their famous dishes like Phuket lobster, green curry, and mango sticky rice. Average cost for a meal is about 800-1,500 baht per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly adventure off the beaten path, visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Phuket. This ethical elephant sanctuary allows visitors to interact with rescued elephants in a natural and respectful environment while learning about their conservation efforts. Another hidden gem is the Phra Nang Cave Beach in Krabi, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, and beach picnics at this idyllic spot loved by locals.