Thailand is wonderfully varied, so this plan pairs Bangkok’s temples and lively riverside with Phuket’s beaches and easygoing family attractions. It keeps each day focused on one area and uses a domestic flight to make the most of a five-day trip.
Budget
About ฿12,000–฿22,000 per person, excluding international flights, hotels and some transfers; domestic airfare, meals and admission prices vary by date.
Best time to visit
November to February is generally the most comfortable season for Bangkok and Phuket, though it is also busy. Check sea conditions before planning beach swimming.
Riverside Bangkok
Ease into the trip with a boat ride, a family-friendly temple visit and dinner beside the Chao Phraya River.
Morning
Ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat
Start with a scenic river ride from to Tha Tien Pier; allow about 30–40 minutes on the boat, depending on the service.
About ฿16–฿40Afternoon
Visit
From Tha Tien Pier, it is about a 5-minute walk to see the Reclining Buddha and peaceful temple courtyards. Dress modestly and take breaks in the shade.
About ฿300Evening
Dinner at
Walk about 8 minutes from for Thai dishes and river views; ask staff about milder options for children.
About ฿300–฿700
Old Bangkok and Siam
Explore the Grand Palace area in the morning, then head to Siam for an easy afternoon of indoor attractions and family dining.
Morning
Explore the Grand Palace
Arrive early to see the palace grounds and Wat Phra Kaew before the heat builds. From , take a taxi or tuk-tuk for about 10–15 minutes.
About ฿500Afternoon
Discover
Take a taxi from the Grand Palace area to in around 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic, for an air-conditioned aquarium visit.
About ฿1,000–฿1,500Evening
Dinner at
Stay in the same complex after the aquarium; the food court and restaurants offer plenty of convenient choices for families.
About ฿200–฿600
Phuket Old Town and the beach
Fly to Phuket, then keep the afternoon gentle with a stroll through Old Town and an evening meal nearby.
Morning
Fly from Bangkok to Phuket
Take a morning flight from Bangkok to Phuket International Airport, usually about 1 hour 30 minutes in the air. Allow extra time for airport transfers and check-in.
About ฿1,500–฿4,000Afternoon
Walk around
From Phuket International Airport, a taxi or pre-booked transfer to Old Town usually takes about 45–60 minutes. Enjoy the colorful shophouses at an unhurried pace.
Evening
Dinner at
It is about a 5–10-minute walk from the heart of Old Town to this well-known local restaurant; choose milder southern Thai dishes if needed.
About ฿250–฿600
Kata Beach
Spend a relaxed day around Kata, with beach time, a gentle viewpoint stop and dinner close to the shore.
Morning
Enjoy
From , take a taxi to in about 30–45 minutes. Swim only where conditions are safe, and follow lifeguard flags and local advice.
Afternoon
Take in the view at
A taxi from takes roughly 15–20 minutes. Make a short stop for views across the bays, then return to Kata in about 15–20 minutes.
Evening
Dinner at
From , take a taxi for about 5–10 minutes to this ocean-view dining spot; check current opening hours and book ahead.
About ฿600–฿1,500
Chalong and south Phuket
Finish with a memorable visit to Phuket’s ethical elephant sanctuary, then enjoy a relaxed final meal around Chalong.
Morning
Visit
Arrange a transfer from Kata or Chalong; the drive is typically about 45–60 minutes. Choose a visit that observes elephants without riding or bathing them, and confirm the program directly.
About ฿3,000–฿4,000Afternoon
Visit
Travel by taxi from the sanctuary area to in about 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Keep shoulders and knees covered inside the temple grounds.
Evening
Dinner at
From , a taxi to the restaurant takes about 10–15 minutes. Enjoy a waterfront meal and allow extra time for your onward airport transfer.
About ฿400–฿1,000
Good to know
Getting around
Bangkok traffic can be heavy, so use river boats and the BTS where practical. In Phuket, taxis and pre-booked transfers are the easiest option; agree on the fare or confirm the price before setting off.
Family comfort
Bring sun protection, water and light layers for air-conditioned attractions. Keep the schedule flexible, especially for children, and build in time for snacks and rest.
Dress and etiquette
Temples require modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Remove shoes where requested, and carry a light cover-up for everyone.
Practical planning
Book the Bangkok–Phuket flight and elephant sanctuary visit in advance. Check attraction hours and current prices before travelling.