Thailand, the land of smiles and contrasts, is an ideal destination for a family trip. With its fine sandy beaches, lush jungles and vibrant cities, this South-East Asian country offers a multitude of adventures for young and old alike. From hectic Bangkok to paradise-like Phuket and the island of Ko Samui, every stage of this journey promises wonder and discovery.

 

Preparations and instructions

When should you go? The best weather is between November and February.

Medical advice: consult your doctor to check vaccinations (hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies and others for high-risk areas).

Check your insurance: Take out health insurance covering medical expenses abroad and possible repatriation. If you plan to take part in water sports or forest excursions, find out about insurance cover. In France, be sure to register with Ariane.

Travel documentation: To enter Thailand, you will need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry. Check whether you need a tourist visa.

Where to find all the information? Official website of the National Tourist Office of Thailand.

Emergency numbers: Thailand telephone code +66

• Police: 191
• Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: 1669
• Fire Brigade: 199
• Tourist Police (English-speaking): 1155
• Embassy or Consulate of your country :
  • In France: Royal Thai Embassy
    8, rue Greuze 75116 Paris
    Tel: 01.56.26.50.50
  • In UK : Royal Thai Embassy,

    29-30 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5JB
     +44 (0) 207 589 2944

     +44 (0) 207 823 7492

     consular.lon@mfa.go.th

Money: The Thai Baht varies from 30 to 40 THB for 1€ (in 2024). It is always useful to have cash on hand, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major towns and tourist areas. ATMs are widely available (SuperRich Thailand offers more competitive rates than the rest of the exchange bureaus in general).

 

Now that you have all the information you need to plan your trip, here’s a suggestion for a family tour (2 adults, 2 children) around Thailand. An 18-day tour in 6 parts.

 

 

1. ARRIVAL IN THAILAND, STAY AT KO KUT

As soon as you arrive in Thailand at Bangkok airport, head for the eastern region where you’ll find the perfect accommodation on the island of Ko Kut (3-night stay).

• Transport to Ko Kut

For any stay at Soneva Kiri, a private air transfer service is available for THB 30,000 – 40,000 for the family. We recommend this option to start your trip, so you’ll have plenty of adventure to look forward to afterwards.

• Accommodation at Soneva Kiri

Soneva Kiri ***** is one of Ko Kut’s most luxurious resorts. Set in a secluded and unspoilt area, the resort offers spacious villas with private pools and stunning ocean views. Families will particularly appreciate the activities on offer for children, as well as the quality facilities such as the spa, gourmet restaurants and numerous leisure options.

• Dining on the island

Soneva Kiri has a number of fine restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of fine cuisine. Outside the resort, you can also discover local restaurants on Ko Kut. Our favourite is Chonthicha Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and authentic Thai dishes.

• Activities in Ko Kut

White sandy beaches such as Klong Chao and Ao Tapao are perfect for relaxing, swimming and playing with the kids.

Water sports such as kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving are available to explore the crystal clear waters and colourful marine life.

Explore the rainforests and hidden waterfalls (Klong Chao).

Excursion to Ko Chang

• Transport to Ko Chang

Return to Laem Sok pier by boat. Transfer to Laem Ngop pier, 20 km away. Take a ferry from Laem Ngop to Ko Chang for 30 to 45 minutes. Total cost of the trip: THB 630-1,000 per person.

• Activities and places to visit

Mu Ko Chang National Park is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. You can hike through the jungle, see waterfalls such as Klong Plu and Than Mayom, or explore mangroves.

Hiking trails, such as the one leading to the Klong Neung waterfall, offer magnificent views of the island’s jungle and mountains.

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding are popular around the island, particularly around the coral reefs off Bang Bao.

• On-site restaurants

Saffron on the Sea: This beachfront restaurant offers excellent Thai cuisine with panoramic ocean views.

Kati Culinary: Renowned for its cooking classes and authentic dishes, this restaurant is a must for lovers of Thai cuisine.

 

 

2. DISCOVER TRAT AND PATTAYA

After 3 days in Ko Kut, return to the mainland on your way to the country’s capital, stopping off at Trat and Pattaya for 2 days.

• Transport to Trat

Leave the hotel and the island of Ko Kut to return to Leam Sok pier, then transfer by van to Trat (30 min drive).

• Visit Trat

Trat Museum: Housed in a historic building, this museum offers an insight into the history and culture of the region.

Wat Buppharam: A peaceful and beautifully decorated Buddhist temple, perfect for a quick visit and a quiet moment.

Stroll along the river and enjoy the view of traditional houses on stilts and colourful fishing boats.

• Transport to Pattaya

You can book a private taxi or chauffeur-driven car through services such as Grab, Taxi2Airport, or local transport agencies. The journey takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Approximately THB 3,000 to 4,500 for a single journey.

• Accommodation in Pattaya

Holiday Inn Pattaya ****: Located by the sea, this hotel offers spacious rooms, several swimming pools and a Kids-club. From THB 3,500 per night.

Amari Pattaya *****: With tropical gardens, swimming pools and family facilities, the Amari Pattaya is a great option. From THB 4,000 per night.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort *****: This nautical-themed hotel offers a water park, children’s activities and direct access to the beach. From 5,000 THB per night.

• Activities in Pattaya

Sanctuary of Truth: A magnificent carved wooden structure where children can learn about Thai culture and architecture. Cost: THB 500 per adult and THB 250 per child.

Pattaya Dolphinarium: Watch a dolphin show, where children can even have the chance to swim with these magnificent creatures. Cost: THB 600 per adult and THB 400 per child.

Mini Siam: A miniature park where children can see replicas of famous monuments from around the world. Cost: THB 300 per adult and THB 150 per child.

 

 

3. EXPLORING BANGKOK

After a short day in Pattaya, it’s time to set sail for Bangkok to visit the country’s capital for 3 days.

• Transport from Pattaya to Bangkok

Bus, minivan or taxi for a 2-hour journey: 120 to 2,000 THB per person. Or train option, more picturesque but less flexible: THB 30 to 300 per person depending on class.

Once in Bangkok, it’s easy to get around on the BTS Skyline or by tuk-tuk.

• Accommodation in Bangkok

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square****: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers modern rooms, a swimming pool and easy access to the main tourist sites. From THB 3,000 per night.

Pathumwan Princess Hotel *****: Adjacent to the MBK shopping mall, this hotel offers spacious rooms and leisure facilities for families. From THB 3,500 per night.

Centara Grand at CentralWorld *****: Located above the mall and therefore with direct access, this hotel has special offers for families with a discount on the 2nd room. Kids-club, children’s pool, baby-sitting service, children’s menus. From THB 7,000 per night for a family room.

• Activities in Bangkok

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: Start your day with a visit to the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Don’t miss the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) inside the complex. Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and midday heat. Cost: THB 500 per adult, free for children under 120 cm.

Wat Arun and Wat Pho: Take a water taxi across the river to visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), then return to the opposite bank to visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). Tip: Enjoy a traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho, renowned for its massage school. Cost: Wat Arun – THB 100 per person, Wat Pho – THB 200 per person.

Bangkok National Museum and Temple of the Golden Mount (Wat Saket). Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the ascent to the Golden Mount. Cost: National Museum – THB 200 per adult, Wat Saket – THB 50 per adult.

• Special activities for children

KidZania Bangkok: An interactive activity centre where children can play at real jobs in a miniature city. Cost: Approximately 800 THB per child, 400 THB per adult.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World: A spectacular aquarium located in the basement of Siam Paragon, perfect for an underwater adventure. Cost: Approximately THB 990 per adult, THB 790 per child.

• Restaurant suggestions

Thip Samai Pad Thai: Considered one of the best places to eat Pad Thai in Bangkok. Specialities: Pad Thai with prawns, Pad Thai with crab.

Cabbages & Condoms: A unique restaurant with a social mission, offering delicious Thai food in a fun setting. Specialities: Som Tam, Laab, fresh seafood.

The Riverfront: A riverside night market with restaurants, shops and entertainment. Specialities: Grilled seafood, Satay, Thai desserts.

 

 

4. STAY IN PHUKET

After 3 days in Bangkok to immerse yourself in Thai culture, head south to discover a new facet of the country.

• Transport to Phuket

Domestic flights via Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia or Thai VietJet Air. Flights last 1? hours and there are several timetables available each day. Fares range from THB 1,500 to THB 4,000 per person.

• Accommodation

The Slate ***** is a resort located on Nai Yang beach, just 10 minutes from Phuket airport. Inspired by the island’s mining heritage, The Slate combines industrial design with tropical luxury. Rooms and suites are spacious, with family suites and villas with private pools. The Slate is ideal for families.

Club Med Phuket **** is a resort in the south of the island, so transport into town is easier than from The Slate. The rooms are spacious and ready to welcome your family during their stay. Take advantage of the on-site activities, swimming pools and spa to relax and unwind.

• Activities in Phuket

Nature: Sirinat National Park, Monkey Hill hike, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park…

Boat trips: Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, Ko Racha Yai…

Unusual activities: Thai cooking classes, Flying Hanuman (zip-line through the jungle), Elephant sanctuary.

• Suggested restaurants

Mor Mu Dong: Hidden in a mangrove, this restaurant is popular with locals for its authentic dishes. Specialities: Grilled fish dishes, nam prik (chilli paste), and other traditional southern Thai dishes. Relaxed atmosphere, non-spicy dishes available.

Two Chefs Kata Beach: Known for its family atmosphere and international dishes. Specialities: Pasta, steaks, mild Thai dishes. Children’s menu, pencils and paper for drawing.

Blue Elephant Governor’s Mansion: Located in a historic colonial house, this restaurant offers a refined Thai dining experience. Specialities: Traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist. Tasting menu, non-spicy dishes available.

 

 

5. RAYAVADEE AND THE ISLANDS OF THE REGION

After 3 days in Phuket, it’s time for a new island adventure. Head for the islands of Phi Phi, to the south-west of Phuket.

• Transport to the islands

Option 1: Ferry from Rassada Pier (Phuket) to Tonsai Pier (Phi Phi Islands). 2-hour crossing for THB 350 to 600 per person, depending on class and company: Phi Phi Cruiser, Andaman Wave Master, Sea Angel Cruise. Ferries generally depart in the morning and early afternoon.

Option 2: Speedboat from Phuket (several departure points) to the Phi Phi Islands, 1-hour crossing for THB 1,200 to 1,800 per person, depending on the company: Phuket Private Boat Charter, Simba Sea Trips, or Island Hopper Phuket. Regular departures throughout the day.

• Activities on the Phi Phi Islands

Visit the island, bring good shoes that fit your feet well for walking. Go as far as Pileh Lagoon, a magnificent lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. The calm turquoise water is perfect for a leisurely swim and for exploring the coral reefs by snorkelling. The perfect spot for great photos!

Lunch at Phi Phi Don, Local café offering Thai dishes and international options. Child-friendly: Varied menu with options for younger children. Recommended dishes: Pad Thai, grilled seafood, fresh pastries.

• Arriving at Rayavadee

To get to the hotel, private boat transfer from Tonsai Pier to Railey Beach, less than 2 hours crossing. Price: From THB 8,000 to THB 12,000 for a private boat, depending on the size and type of boat.

It’s a 5-10 minute walk from Railey Beach to the hotel.

• Accommodation at Rayavadee (Stay 2 days)

Rayavadee *****, located on Railay Beach near Krabi, is a luxury resort offering a unique experience in the middle of nature. Accessible by boat, the resort is set in a spectacular setting on the edge of limestone cliffs. The private pavilions and villas are elegantly decorated and offer breathtaking views of the tropical gardens or the sea. Enjoy swimming pools, spas, tennis courts and several gourmet restaurants offering Thai and international cuisine, as well as activities and excursions departing from the hotel.

 

 

6. ITINERARY TO KO SAMUI AND STAY ON THE ISLAND

After 2 quieter days at Rayavadee, head back for more adventure by car to Phuket, to enjoy the scenery and pass through Than Bok Khorani National Park.

Option 1: private car or taxi:

• Route: Rayavadee to Phuket via Than Bok Khorani National Park.
• Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours’ drive.
• Cost: THB 3,000 to 5,000 for a private car service.
• Than Bok Khorani National Park:
  • Admission: THB 300 per adult, THB 150 per child.
  • Activities: Hiking, exploring caves, swimming in waterfalls and natural pools, wildlife watching.

Option 2: Minivan or Bus :

• Journey: Rayavadee to Krabi by boat, then bus/minivan from Krabi to Phuket via the park.
• Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
• Cost: THB 1,000 to 1,500 per person.

On arrival in Phuket, you will go directly to the airport where a plane is waiting to take you to the island of Ko Samui.

• Transport from Phuket to Ko Samui

Direct flight with Bangkok Airways: 1-hour journey, THB 3,000 to 5,000 per person.

Once you arrive at the island’s airport, you can take a pre-booked taxi to your hotel (THB 900 on average).

• Accommodation in Ko Samui

Six Senses Ko Samui ***** is a luxury resort offering an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature. Villas with sea views, some with private pools, world-renowned Spa, gourmet restaurants, infinity pool, etc. Also enjoy the activities on offer: yoga, cookery classes, boat trips.

• Activities on the island

Visit the Na Muang Waterfalls: easy hike to picturesque waterfalls, ideal for a swim.

Beaches: Lamai Beach, less popular than Chaweng, the island’s main beach, but just as beautiful. Snorkelling, swimming, games on the beach. Suitable for children: Safe swimming areas, quieter atmosphere. Silver Beach (Haad Thong Ta-khian): A small hidden beach with clear water and fine sand. Snorkelling, beach games, rock exploration. Suitable for children: Calm and shallow water, perfect for young children.

Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo: An aquarium combined with a tiger zoo. Tropical fish viewing, animal shows, interaction with tigers. Suitable for children: Play areas and interactive activities.

 

 

7. BACK TO THE CAPITAL, FAMILY TIME

After 3 days in Ko Samui, it’s time to return to the mainland by spending a few days in Bangkok.

• Transport to Bangkok

Option 1: direct flight with Bangkok Airways or Thai Airways, 1h15 journey time for THB 2,500 to 5,000 per person, with regular departures throughout the day.

Option 2: Ferry from Ko Samui to Surat Thani, then fly from Surat Thani to Bangkok. Ferry companies: Seatran, Lomprayah. Airlines: Thai Lion Air, AirAsia. Duration: 3 to 4 hours (1? hours ferry + 1 hour flight + transfer time). Cost: THB 2,000 to 3,500 per person.

• Hotel recommendations

Amari Watergate Bangkok*****: Located in the Pratunam district, this hotel offers special deals for families, including discounts on the second room. Children’s pool, babysitting services, children’s menu. From THB 5,500 per night for a family room.

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square ****: Family run hotel conveniently located near Siam Square with easy access to shopping malls and tourist attractions. Connecting rooms on request and family packages with discounts on the second room. Playground, children’s pool, babysitting service, children’s menus. From THB 4,500 per night for a family room.

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort*****: An urban resort with a tropical ambience, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Connecting rooms on request. Special offers for families including discounts on additional rooms. Kids-club, children’s pool, organised children’s activities, children’s menus. From THB 8,000 per night for a family room.

• Activities in Bangkok

Explore Thailand’s most famous floating market, Damnoen Saduak, ideal for experiencing local culture and shopping. Cost: Organized tour from THB 1,200 per person.

Discover the fascinating story of Jim Thompson and admire his collection of Asian art on a tour of his home. Cost: THB 200 per adult, THB 100 per child.

Bangkok Science Museum and Planetarium: A fun and educational place for children with interactive exhibits. Cost: THB 50 per adult, THB 30 per child.

• Local restaurants

The Deck by the River: Restaurant with a breathtaking view of Wat Arun. Specialities: Thai and international cuisine.

Chocolate Ville: Restaurant and theme park offering a unique outdoor dining experience. Asian and European fusion cuisine.

Vertigo and Moon Bar: Restaurant on the roof of the Banyan Tree Hotel, offering a panoramic view of Bangkok. International cuisine and seafood.

 

 

With this detailed guide, you’re all set for an unforgettable trip to Thailand, combining relaxation, adventure and cultural discovery for all the family. Don’t hesitate to contact our Little Concierge for more information.

เดินทางโดยสวัสดิภาพ (have a nice trip!)