Are you planning a trip to Thailand with your little ones? Perfect! We’ve been living in Thailand since 2019 with our two daughters, traveling all over the country. We know what pace works for kids—what’s fun, what’s too much, and where to slow down.
This guide gives you two 7-day Thailand family trip itineraries: whether you want a classic mix of local culture and beaches, a jungle adventure, or a laid-back island escape. Plus, practical tips on transport and family-friendly stays.
Let’s dive in!
7- Day Thailand Itinerary No. 1: Classic Thailand – Culture, Nature & Beaches
(Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Phuket)
Day 1-2: Bangkok – Temples, Boats & Night Markets
Welcome to Bangkok! This city is loud, busy, and full of surprises. But don’t worry, we’re keeping it fun and easy. You’ll most likely land at Suvarnabhumi Airport and take an airport taxi into the city. This takes 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs ~250-400 THB ($7-$12 / €6.50-€11).
Morning: A Quick Temple Stop (Because Kids Have Limits)
Start your first day at The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew. It’s stunning, but let’s be real—kids will last about 30 minutes before they start melting. So, snap some photos, admire the golden temples, and move on before the whining begins.
Midday: Tuk-Tuks & Boat Rides – A Big Adventure for Little Travelers
Hop on a tuk-tuk (yes, it’s overpriced; you pay double the price compared to a normal taxi, but totally worth it for the thrill). Then, take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River. It’s a breeze compared to Bangkok traffic, and my kids love spotting ancient temples, bridges, and tiny wooden houses for the spirits along the riverbanks.
You can hop on a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River from several piers, but the easiest option for visitors is Saphan Taksin Pier (Central Pier). It’s right next to Saphan Taksin BTS Station.
Boat Options & Costs
- Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) – Runs daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, stopping at major attractions like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace. Cost: 16 THB ($0.45/€0.40) per ride.
- Tourist Boat (Blue Flag) – Hop-on-hop-off service, stopping at all major attractions. Cost: 50 THB ($1.40/€1.25) per ride or 200 THB ($5.65/€5.05) for an all-day pass.
- Local Cross-River Ferries – If you just need to cross the river (e.g., from Wat Arun to Wat Pho), it’s only 5 THB ($0.15/€0.15).
Where to Buy Tickets
- At the pier ticket counters (cash only at most local boats).
- The tourist boat also sells tickets onboard.
💡 My personal tip: I know it’s not a long cruise, but we love the short ferry ride from Si Phraya Pier to ICONSIAM Mall. It’s only 5 THB and so much faster than going by taxi.
Afternoon: Indoor Play & Fun for Kids
Temples and cruise done? Time for something kid-approved. Bangkok can be overwhelming for little ones, so taking a break in an indoor play area is a great way to reset, cool down, and let them burn off some energy. For me personally, this is the only way to survive major cities with kids.
1. HarborLand at Gateway Ekamai – Best for Active Play
HarborLand is one of Thailand’s biggest indoor playgrounds. It has huge slides, ball pits, obstacle courses, and climbing walls—a great place for kids to run, jump, and play.
- Perfect for toddlers and younger kids
- Conveniently located within Gateway Ekamai
- Socks required for kids and adults
- Location: 4th Floor, Gateway Ekamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd
- Opening Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Ticket Prices (Approx.):
- Kids (under 80 cm): Free
- Kids (80-100 cm): 350 THB ($9.85/€8.80)
- Kids (over 100 cm): 450-600 THB ($12.70-$16.90/€11.35-€15.10) (depends on play zones)
- Adults: 200 THB ($5.65/€5.05)
- Where to Buy Tickets:
- At the entrance
👉 You need some more inspo? I’ve listed a number of amazing indoor and outdoor playgrounds in Bangkok in this article.
Evening: Street Food & Market Vibes
Bangkok’s night markets are chaotic in the best way—bright lights, sizzling street food, and a mix of locals and tourists hunting for the best snacks. Some are bustling and packed, while others have a more relaxed vibe.
Here are two great options, depending on what you’re looking for:
Jodd Fairs – Trendy, Fun, and Full of Amazing Food
- Location: Rama 9 Road, next to Central Rama 9 Mall
- Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (daily)
- Payments: Cash and digital payments accepted
Jodd Fairs is one of Bangkok’s most popular night markets, packed with food stalls selling everything from grilled skewers and seafood to mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream. It has a trendy, modern feel, but it still keeps the lively local market atmosphere.
- Great for food lovers—tons of variety, including vegetarian options
- Easy to reach—right next to a shopping mall and MRT station
- Best for families with older kids—can get crowded, but worth it for the food
Asiatique Riverfront – Relaxed, Scenic, and Family-Friendly
- Location: Charoen Krung Road, along the Chao Phraya River
- Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (daily)
- Payments: Cash and card payments accepted
If you want a quieter, more scenic market experience, Asiatique Riverfront is perfect. Located by the river, it’s a mix of open-air shopping, delicious street food, and entertainment. The highlight? A giant Ferris wheel with views of Bangkok’s skyline.
- Plenty of space—kids can walk around freely
- Family-friendly attractions—Ferris wheel, puppet shows, and boat rides
- More relaxed—a great place to enjoy dinner by the river
Where to Stay: Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Bangkok
- Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel
- Location: Ratchadamri Road, Bangkok, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Spacious rooms and suites with Thai-inspired décor
- Multiple dining options offering international and Thai cuisine
- Outdoor swimming pool set in a tropical garden
- Kids’ club with engaging activities
- Close proximity to shopping districts and cultural sites
- Price: From approximately $190 (€175) per night (Premier Room)
- Shangri-La Bangkok
- Location: Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Riverside location with stunning views
- Two outdoor swimming pools
- CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La offering family spa treatments
- Adjacent to the BTS Skytrain for easy city exploration
- Various family-friendly dining options
- Price: From approximately $162 (€150) per night (Deluxe River View Room)
- Pathumwan Princess Hotel
- Location: Phayathai Road, Bangkok, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Direct access to MBK Shopping Center
- Spacious family rooms
- Outdoor saltwater swimming pool
- Tennis and squash courts
- Variety of international dining options
- Price: From approximately $131 (€120) per night (Deluxe Classic Room)
Day 3-4: Chiang Mai – Elephants, Waterfalls & Night Markets
Chiang Mai is way more relaxed than Bangkok. The weather is a bit cooler, the atmosphere more laid-back, and the traffic? Nowhere near as crazy as in the capital. Some parts of Chiang Mai have a creative, artsy vibe, while others feel like you’ve stepped straight into the countryside.
Day 3 – Temples & Elephants
Morning: Doi Suthep – A Temple with a View
Start the day with a trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most famous temple. Perched on a hill, it offers stunning city views and a peaceful atmosphere—if you get there early before the crowds.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was one of our first sightseeing spots when we arrived in 2019 with our then-2-year-old. We all loved it so much on the first time that we returned every year.
- Location: Doi Suthep Mountain, about 15 km from Chiang Mai Old Town
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (daily)
- Entrance Fee: 30 THB ($0.85/€0.75) per person (free for children under 6)
Getting There
- Red Songthaews (shared taxis) from Chiang Mai cost around 100 THB ($2.80/€2.50) per person. But it can be more expensive depending on how full the songthaew is—the more people, the lower the price.
- Private Grab or Taxi costs around 300-500 THB ($8.45-$14.10/€7.55-€12.60) one way.
- For an adventure, rent a scooter and enjoy the winding mountain road. I only recommend this for experienced drivers (especially when kids are on board).
What to Expect
- 308 steps to the top—a mini workout, but the golden Naga (serpent) staircase makes it worth the climb.
- Funicular available for 50 THB ($1.40/€1.25) round trip if little legs refuse to walk.
- A golden stupa, intricate murals, and breathtaking views over Chiang Mai.
Afternoon: The Best Elephant Experience (Ethical Only!)
After lunch, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary—no riding, no performances, just a chance to observe and learn about rescued elephants in a natural setting. Elephant Nature Park is one of the best options in Chiang Mai.
- Location: Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai (about 1.5 hours from the city)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 2,500 THB ($70.45/€63.00)
- Children (under 10): 1,250 THB ($35.20/€31.50)
- Booking: Advance booking required via Elephant Nature Park’s website
I wrote an article about where to see elephants ethically in Thailand. Check it out here!
Evening: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – Street Food & Souvenirs
After a full day of exploring, wind down at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It’s lively but not overwhelming, making it perfect for families. Expect handmade crafts, local street food, and live music, all in a relaxed setting.
- Location: Chang Khlan Road, Chiang Mai
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (daily)
- Payments: Mostly cash, but some vendors accept digital payments
Day 4 – Waterfalls & Chill Time
Morning: Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong) – Nature’s Playground
This place is a must-visit. Unlike most waterfalls, you can climb this one—even kids from, I’d say, 4 years! The mineral-rich rocks are naturally “sticky,” meaning no slipping. It’s like a giant natural playground, perfect for splashing, climbing, and cooling off in the shade.
I cannot count how often we visited Sticky Waterfall. You definitely shouldn’t miss it!
- Location: Sri Lanna National Park, about 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
- Entrance Fee: Free
Afternoon: Old Town Stroll & Café Hopping
Chiang Mai’s Old Town is perfect for a slow afternoon wander. It’s full of hidden courtyards, charming cafés, and quiet alleyways—a great break after a morning of climbing waterfalls.
- Location: Chiang Mai Old City
- Best Time to Visit: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Payments: Most cafés accept cash and digital payments
Heads up: Don’t expect to stroll around comfortably with a stroller on wide sidewalks. Like almost everywhere in Thailand, sidewalks are either narrow, uneven, or nonexistent. When my girls were babies and toddlers, I always carried them instead.
💡 My personal tip: My girls’ absolute favorite café is Bear Hug Café. It’s neither a culinary nor an atmospheric highlight. But the baristas create amazing bear designs in the milk foam on coffee and cold chocolate. Truly impressive!
Where to Stay: Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Chiang Mai
- Shangri-La Chiang Mai
- Location: Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Spacious rooms with Lanna-inspired décor
- Large outdoor pool with a dedicated children’s area
- Kids’ club offering cultural activities
- Close to Night Bazaar and Old City
- Price: From approximately $124 (€113) per night (Deluxe Room)
- Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
- Location: Charoen Prathet Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Riverside resort with minimalist design
- Infinity pool overlooking the Mae Ping River
- Cooking classes suitable for families
- Walking distance to the Night Bazaar
- Spa treatments available for all ages
- Price: From approximately $291 (€255) per night (Deluxe Room)
- InterContinental Chiang Mai
- Location: Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai
- Highlights:
- Modern rooms with city or mountain views
- Outdoor pool with panoramic scenery
- Family-friendly services and amenities
- Steps from the Night Bazaar
- Price: From approximately $121 (€111) per night (Classic Room)
Day 5-7: Phuket – Beach Time & Island Hopping
From Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, you can fly nonstop to Phuket in just 2 hours. Once you arrive, it’s all about island and beach life for the next three days. Don’t try to ride a scooter in Phuket—it’s far too dangerous! Instead, just use the Grab app, which is easy and reliable.
Day 5 – Arrival & Beach Time
After checking in to your resort (I’ll have a hotel recommendation section further below), head straight to Kata Beach or Karon Beach. Both are much more relaxed and family-friendly than busy Patong Beach.
In general, I recommend staying in the west and north of the island. Rawai and Old Town are beautiful, too, but too busy with kids, in my opinion. We did both with kids and enjoyed other places in Phuket way more.
- Best Areas to Stay: Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Kamala, Naithon Beach
- Getting from the Airport: A private taxi costs 600-1,000 THB ($16.90-$28.20/€15.10-€25.20), or take a shared minivan for 200-300 THB ($5.65-$8.45/€5.05-€7.55) per person
Evening: Dinner with a View
After a day of travel and beach time, keep dinner easy and relaxed. Pick a beachfront restaurant where the kids can play in the sand while you enjoy a cocktail and fresh seafood.
- Best local Restaurants for Families on the beach:
- The Boathouse Phuket (Kata Beach) – Upscale but family-friendly, with amazing sunset views.
- On The Rock (Karon Beach) – Great seafood, right by the water.
- Best Time to Go: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM for sunset views
Day 6 – Island Hopping & Snorkeling
Morning: Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay?
Time for an island-hopping adventure! Phuket has two incredible options, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
- Departure Points: Most tours leave from Rassada Pier (Phi Phi) or Ao Por Pier (Phang Nga Bay)
- Tour Duration: Full-day trip(typically 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
- Tour Prices (Approx.):
- Phi Phi Islands: 1,500 – 3,500 THB ($42.25-$98.60/€37.80-€88.20) per person
- Phang Nga Bay: 1,200 – 3,000 THB ($33.80-$84.50/€30.25-€75.60) per person
- Booking: Recommended in advance via tour operators or online platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide
Which One to Choose?
- Phi Phi Islands – Classic Tropical Paradise
- Beautiful beaches & turquoise water
- Snorkeling spots with colorful fish
- Maya Bay (famous from “The Beach” movie)
Phi Phi is stunning but can get very crowded. If you go, choose a speedboat tour to arrive before the big tour boats.
- Phang Nga Bay – Stunning Cliffs & Hidden Lagoons
- Dramatic limestone cliffs & caves
- Less crowded than Phi Phi
- James Bond Island & kayak trips through sea caves
Phang Nga Bay is more about exploring than beach time, making it great for families who love boat rides and nature.
Both tours are kid-friendly, but for younger children, Phang Nga Bay is calmer with less open water swimming.
Evening: Phuket Walking Street Night Market
End the day with a stroll through the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market in Old Town. It’s packed with handmade crafts, street food, and live music, making it a great way to experience the local vibe. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to wander, people-watch, and snack on fresh mango sticky rice.
- Location: Thalang Road, Phuket Old Town
- Opening Hours: Sundays, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Payments: Mostly cash, but some vendors accept digital payments
Day 7 – Last Beach Moments & Departure
It’s the last morning in Phuket, so make it count. Spend a few final hours on the beach, soaking up the sun while the kids play in the sand. If your flight is later in the day and you want one more adventure, Splash Jungle Water Park is a great option for water-loving kids. It’s right next to the international airport, so that’s extremely convenient.
Splash Jungle Water Park: Mai Khao Beach, near Phuket Airport
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM (daily)
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 1,450 THB ($40.85/€36.55)
- Children (5-12 years): 1,150 THB ($32.40/€28.95)
- Kids under 5: Free
- Booking: Buy tickets at the entrance or online for discounts
Where to Stay: Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Phuket
- Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach (My absolute favorite hotel in Phuket–read my honest review here!)
- Location: Naithon Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Overlooking Naithon Beach with direct access
- Two outdoor pools, including a children’s pool
- Kids’ club with daily activities
- Spacious family rooms and suites
- Price: From approximately $331 (€305) per night (Family Room)
- The Slate
- Location: Nai Yang Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Unique industrial design reflecting Phuket’s tin mining history
- Three swimming pools, one dedicated to families
- The Tin Box kids’ club with creative activities
- Proximity to Sirinat National Park
- Price: From approximately $162 (€150) per night (Indigo Studio)
- JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
- Location: Mai Khao Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Extensive beachfront property
- Three outdoor pools, including a children’s pool
- Kids’ Pavilion with supervised activities
- Close to Splash Jungle Water Park
- Price: From approximately $178 (€164) per night (Family Room)
7- Day Thailand Itinerary No. 2: Adventure & Nature – Jungles, Lakes & Beaches
(Bangkok → Khao Sok → Krabi)
Day 1-2: Bangkok – City & Floating Markets
This part is pretty much the same as in Itinerary 1. After two days of city buzz, it’s time to swap the traffic for jungle sounds and floating bungalows. Next stop: Khao Sok National Park!
Day 3-4: Khao Sok – Jungle & Lake Stay
Welcome to Khao Sok National Park—one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural spots. It has ancient rainforests, limestone cliffs, and a huge lake. The forest here is older than the Amazon.
The highlight is Cheow Lan Lake. It’s human-made, created in 1987 when the Rajjaprabha Dam was built. Now, it’s a place of calm water, giant cliffs, and floating bungalows.
Wildlife is everywhere. You might see elephants, gibbons, tapirs, and over 300 bird species.
Day 3 – Arrival & Jungle Fun
Morning: Travel to Khao Sok
Getting to Khao Sok takes a bit of time, but the journey is worth it.
- Route: Bangkok → Surat Thani → Khao Sok
- Total Travel Time: Around 3.5–4 hours
Step 1: Fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani
- Domestic Flight Time: 1.5 hours
- Airlines: Thai Vietjet, AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air
- Cost: 1,000–2,500 THB ($28.20-$70.45/€25.20-€63.00) per person (one way)
Step 2: Transfer from Surat Thani to Khao Sok
- Private Transfer: 2 hours, costs 2,000–2,500 THB ($56.35-$70.45/€50.40-€63.00) for a car (best with kids)
- Shared Minivan: 2.5 hours, costs 300–500 THB ($8.45-$14.10/€7.55-€12.60) per person
- Bus + Songthaew: Cheapest but slowest, takes 3+ hours
Once you arrive, settle into your jungle lodge or floating bungalow.
Afternoon: Canoeing or River Tubing
Spend the afternoon floating down the Sok River, surrounded by lush jungle and towering limestone cliffs. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to explore, with plenty of chances to spot monkeys, birds, and maybe even a wild elephant.
- Location: Sok River, Khao Sok National Park
- Activity Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Cost:
- Canoeing: 600–1,000 THB ($16.90-$28.20/€15.10-€25.20) per person (includes a guide)
- River Tubing: 400–600 THB ($11.25-$16.90/€10.10-€15.10) per person (seasonal, best in rainy season)
- Booking: Available through most guesthouses and tour operators
Evening: Night Safari – A Jungle After Dark Adventure
After dinner, head into the jungle for a night safari. The rainforest comes alive after dark, and with a local guide, you’ll spot creatures you’d never see during the day. Listen to chirping frogs, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls, and keep an eye out for the glowing eyes of nocturnal wildlife.
Best for kids aged 6+ who love nature and spotting animals. Teens and adults will enjoy the adventure and eerie jungle atmosphere. Not ideal for toddlers due to dark, uneven trails.
- Location: Khao Sok National Park
- Tour Duration: 1.5–2 hours (starts around 7:00–8:00 PM)
- Cost: 600–1,000 THB ($16.90-$28.20/€15.10-€25.20) per person (includes guide and flashlight)
- Booking: Available through guesthouses and local tour operators
Day 4 – Cheow Lan Lake: Floating Bungalows & Boat Safari
Morning: Boat Trip to the Floating Bungalows
Wake up early and take a longtail boat to Cheow Lan Lake—a place so surreal, it looks straight out of a movie. Towering limestone cliffs rise from emerald-green waters, and the only way to explore is by boat.
- Departure Point: Cheow Lan Lake Pier (Rajjaprabha Dam)
- Boat Trip Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Cost: 1,500–3,000 THB ($42.25-$84.50/€37.80-€75.60) per boat (shared or private options available)
- Booking: Through guesthouses or tour operators in Khao Sok
Stay in a Floating Bungalow
- Yes, you’ll sleep right on the water—just step outside and jump in
- Electricity is limited (usually only at night), but the experience is worth it
- Bungalows range from budget to luxury—choose simple wooden huts or floating villas with private bathrooms
Spending the night on the lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best part? Waking up to mist rolling over the water and the sounds of gibbons calling in the distance.
Afternoon: Swimming, Kayaking & Jungle Walks
Cheow Lan Lake is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature. Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing on your bungalow’s deck, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and jungle sounds.
- Location: Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park
- Activity Duration: Flexible, most tours last 2–3 hours
- Cost: Usually included in floating bungalow stays
- Booking: Through your resort or tour provider
Evening: Sunset Safari & Stargazing
As the sun sets over Cheow Lan Lake, hop on a boat safari to spot wildlife in the fading light. This is one of the best times to see gibbons swinging through the trees, hornbills flying overhead, and even wild buffalo grazing along the shoreline. The lake is peaceful, the air cools down, and the jungle starts to come alive.
- Departure Point: Floating bungalows, Cheow Lan Lake
- Tour Duration: 1.5–2 hours (starts around 5:30 PM)
- Cost: Usually included in floating bungalow packages or 500–1,000 THB ($14.10-$28.20/€12.60-€25.20) per person if booked separately
- Booking: Through your accommodation or tour provider
After the safari, end the day stargazing from your floating bungalow. With no city lights, the night sky is incredible—expect thousands of stars, a clear Milky Way, and the sounds of the jungle all around.
Where to Stay: Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Khao Sok
- Our Jungle House
- Location: Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Unique treehouse and bungalow accommodations surrounded by lush jungle
- Family-friendly activities like jungle treks, tubing, and wildlife spotting
- Relaxing natural environment with a strong focus on sustainability
- Price: From approximately $54 (€49) per night (Bungalow Triple)
- Khaosok Good View Resort
- Location: Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Comfortable bungalows with breathtaking mountain views
- Outdoor swimming pool suitable for families
- Excursions available, including canoeing and guided hikes
- Price: From approximately $53 (€49) per night
- The Bliss Khao Sok Boutique Lodge
- Location: Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Spacious family rooms with modern amenities
- Beautiful garden setting with scenic mountain views
- Convenient access to local attractions and national park activities
- Price: From approximately $89 (€82) per night
Day 5-7: Krabi – Stunning Beaches & Island Hopping
Krabi has some truly breathtaking beaches. We come here at least once a year. In my opinion, Krabi is best for older kids (5+ years) because there are so many outdoor activities and nature adventures to enjoy. For toddlers, the options are mostly beaches and the hotel pool—which can still be a great way to relax.
Day 5 – Travel to Krabi & Beach Time
Morning: Travel from Khao Sok to Krabi
Time to leave the jungle behind and head to Krabi’s stunning beaches. The journey takes a few hours, but the views of limestone cliffs, palm plantations, and small villages make it an adventure on its own.
- Route: Cheow Lan Lake → Khao Sok → Krabi
- Total Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Step 1: Boat Ride from Cheow Lan Lake
- Longtail boat back to the pier (Rajjaprabha Dam)
- Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Cost: Usually included in floating bungalow stays
Step 2: Transfer from Khao Sok to Krabi
- Private Transfer: 3–4 hours, costs 2,500–3,500 THB ($70.45-$98.60/€63.00-€88.20) per car (best with kids)
- Shared Minivan: 4–5 hours, costs 500–700 THB ($14.10-$19.70/€12.60-€17.65) per person (more budget-friendly)
- Public Bus: Cheapest but takes 5+ hours with multiple stops
Once in Krabi, check into your hotel, grab a fresh coconut, and get ready for the beach.
Afternoon: Relax at Railay Beach
Railay Beach is a must-visit in Krabi. There are no roads, no traffic—just soft white sand, jungle-covered cliffs, and turquoise water. The only way to get there is by boat, making it feel like a secret paradise.
- Location: Railay Beach, Krabi
- Boat Ride Duration: 10–15 minutes from Ao Nang
- Cost: 100–150 THB ($2.80-$4.25/€2.50-€3.80) per person (one way, longtail boat)
- Where to Buy Tickets: Ao Nang Beach longtail boat ticket booth
Evening: Dinner with a Sunset View
End the day with a relaxed beachfront dinner in Ao Nang or Railay, soaking in the stunning sunset over the Andaman Sea. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, Thai classics, or something international, these family-friendly restaurants offer great food and a laid-back vibe.
- Best Areas for Dinner: Ao Nang Beach or Railay Beach
- Best Time to Go: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (for sunset views, have mosquito spray with you!)
- Payments: Most places accept cash and cards
Where to Eat?
- Lae Lay Grill (Ao Nang) – Fresh seafood with a beautiful hilltop view over the bay. Great for a special meal.
- Mañana Mexican (Ao Nang) – A casual Mexican spot serving tacos, burritos, and nachos—perfect if you need a break from Thai food. My personal favorite spot!
- The Last Bar (Railay East) – A fun beachside spot serving Thai and Western food, with a fire show in the evening.
- Mangrove Restaurant (Railay) – A hidden gem between Railay East and West, with jungle vibes and vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Railay Family Restaurant (Railay) – A casual Thai eatery right on the beach, great for letting kids play while you eat.
Day 6 – Island-Hopping Fun
Morning: Boat Tour – Hong Islands or Four Islands?
Time for an island-hopping adventure! Krabi is surrounded by stunning limestone islands with turquoise water, and two of the best boat tours are Hong Islands and the Four Islands Tour.
- Departure Point: Ao Nang or Railay Beach
- Tour Duration: 4–6 hours (half-day or full-day tours available)
- Cost: 1,200–3,000 THB ($33.80-$84.50/€30.25-€75.60) per person, depending on boat type (speedboat or longtail)
- Booking: Available through hotels, local tour agencies, or online platforms like Klook
Which One Is Best for Families?
- For younger kids (under 5), Hong Islands is better since it’s less crowded and calmer.
- For older kids (5+), Four Islands is fun because there’s more to see and do in a short time.
Afternoon & Evening: Beach Time & Ice Cream Stop
After a morning of island-hopping, it’s time to slow down and recharge. Grab some ice cream or a smoothie at one of Ao Nang’s beachfront cafés before heading to a quiet beach for the afternoon.
Best Ice Cream & Café Spots:
- The Coffee Club Ao Nang – Great for coffee, smoothies, and light snacks.
- BUZZ Organic Café – Healthy smoothie bowls and vegan-friendly treats.
Day 7 – Nature & Departure
Morning: Visit the Emerald Pool & Hot Springs
Start the day with a trip to the Emerald Pool, a stunning natural swimming hole hidden in the jungle. The mineral-rich water is crystal-clear, and the short 1.4 km nature trail through the rainforest makes getting there part of the adventure.
- Location: Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, about 1 hour from Ao Nang
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: Adults: 200 THB ($5.65/€5.05), Kids: 100 THB ($2.80/€2.50)
- Payments: Cash only
Optional Stop: Krabi Hot Springs
Just a 15-minute drive from the Emerald Pool, Krabi Hot Springs offer natural thermal pools set in the jungle. The water stays around 35–40°C, so it’s best to visit early in the morning before it gets too hot.
- Location: Klong Thom District, Krabi
- Entrance Fee: Adults: 160 THB ($4.50/€4.05), Kids: 80 THB ($2.25/€2.00)
Afternoon: Travel Home (Or Stay Longer!)
After an incredible week in Thailand, it’s time to head to Krabi Airport for your flight home. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll likely connect through Bangkok before heading to your final destination.
- Krabi Airport (KBV)
- Travel Time to Airport: 30–40 minutes from Ao Nang
- Taxi Cost: 600–800 THB ($16.90-$22.55/€15.10-€20.15) (private transfer)
- Booking: Arrange through your hotel or use Grab for a hassle-free ride
Explore my ultimate guide to Krabi with kids!
Where to Stay: Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Krabi
- Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort
- Location: Ao Nang, Krabi, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Spacious and well-equipped rooms suitable for families
- Multiple swimming pools, including a children’s pool
- Kids’ club offering various activities
- Convenient location across the road from the beach
- Price: From approximately $170 (€155) per night (Family Garden View)
- Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort
- Location: Klong Muang Beach, Krabi, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Beachfront resort with a peaceful atmosphere
- Spacious family rooms and suites with garden or sea views
- Kids’ club, playground, and family-friendly activities
- Two large swimming pools and a variety of water sports
- Price: From approximately $106 (€97) per night (Deluxe Room)
- Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
- Location: Klong Muang Beach, Krabi, Thailand
- Highlights:
- Elegant rooms with private balconies
- Largest swimming pool in Thailand
- Kids’ club with daily activities
- On-site golf course and spa facilities
- Price: From approximately $223 (€204) per night (Family Triple Room)
👉 You might also like:
– 14 Best Things to Do with Kids in Bangkok
– The 20 Best Kids Activities in Chiang Mai
– Krabi with Kids – Best Things to Do
– Pullman Phuket Naithon Beach with Kids
– The Best Months to Visit Thailand
Final Thoughts on the Perfect 7-Day Thailand Family Itinerary
Thailand is an amazing family destination, no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for. Personally, I love staying on the islands with young children—slow mornings, easy beach days, and no need to rush anywhere.
For families with older kids (7+), places like Khao Sok and Krabi can be a great adventure. Short hikes, climbing, and boat trips keep them engaged, while younger ones might find the travel days a bit tiring. If you’re traveling with a toddler, I’d stick to shorter travel times and a slower pace.
Which 7-day Thailand itinerary will you choose? Please let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
Just a heads up: some links in the article “7-Day Thailand Family Trip” on Nomadmum.com are affiliate links. This means if you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
