Thailand Icons Express: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket – Classic - 10 Days

Okay, so you're landing in Bangkok!

Get ready for that first breath of warm, tropical air – it's something else.

We'll have someone waiting for you, a friendly face to whisk you away in a super comfy, quiet electric car. No stressing about taxis or figuring out directions, just a smooth ride into the city.

You'll be staying at the Tinidee Trendy Bangkok Khao San, which is a cool spot. It's right in the middle of all the action, so you'll be perfectly placed to dive into everything Bangkok has to offer. After a quick hello from your guide – who's basically your local buddy for the day – we're heading off for some real, honest-to-goodness Thai food.

Trust us on this one: MaeThum Padthai is a hidden gem. They make the best crispy Pad Thai, hands down. You can watch them cook it right in front of you, all those fresh ingredients sizzling away. And the taste? Forget about it! It's that perfect blend of familiar and totally new.

While you're there, take a peek into their little side alley. It's like a mini-jungle, all bamboo and orchids. It's a lovely, peaceful escape from the buzz of the city. Honestly, it's the perfect way to start your Thai adventure – a delicious meal, a taste of local life, and a moment to just breathe it all in.

You'll head back to the hotel feeling full, happy, and ready for whatever comes next. Seriously, by the end of the day, you'll already feel like you've got a little piece of Bangkok in your heart.

And hey, you're staying at the Tinidee Trendy Bangkok Khao San, which is a great place to recharge after your first day of adventure.

You'll be well rested for the rest of the trip abord the Thailand Express!

As the sun rises over Bangkok, the city stirs to life with the aroma of sizzling street food and the distant hum of longtail boats gliding through the canals. Today, you step into a world where ancient traditions meet timeless grandeur—from vibrant floating markets to the golden rooftops of the Grand Palace.

🚤 Drift Through Thailand’s Most Famous Floating Market

At Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the air is filled with the scent of ripe mangoes, grilled coconut pancakes, and steaming bowls of boat noodles. Glide along the canals as vendors paddle past, their boats brimming with colorful produce and handcrafted treasures. This is a taste of old-world Thailand—bustling, authentic, and alive with energy.

🚆 Mae Klong Railway Market – A Market on the Tracks

Just as you arrive at Mae Klong Market, a whistle blows in the distance. In a breathtaking moment, vendors swiftly pull back their stalls as a train rolls through—brushing past baskets of fresh seafood and stacks of fragrant herbs. Within seconds, the market is back in full swing, as if nothing happened. It’s a thrilling spectacle that captures the resilience and rhythm of local life.

👑 A Glimpse into Thailand’s Royal Heart

Step into Bangkok’s most dazzling landmark—the Grand Palace. The golden spires shimmer under the afternoon sun as you explore this sacred complex, once home to Thailand’s kings. Though your visit is brief, the beauty of Wat Phra Kaew, the Emerald Buddha, and the intricate murals lining the palace walls will stay with you long after you leave.

🛕 The Reclining Buddha & Temple of the Dawn

At Wat Pho, stand before the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha, its golden face radiating serenity. This temple isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a sanctuary of peace, where the hum of chanting monks fills the air.

Just across the river, the iconic Wat Arun awaits, its porcelain-encrusted spires glowing in the late afternoon light. Climbing its steep steps, you’re rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River, a perfect ending to a day filled with wonder.

🌙 An Evening to Reflect

As the city lights flicker across the water, you return to your hotel, still carrying the flavors, sounds, and golden hues of the day. Bangkok has a way of captivating the soul, and today, you’ve seen why.

Tomorrow, the journey continues.

This morning, you leave behind the vibrant energy of Bangkok and take to the skies, bound for Chiang Mai—a city where tradition meets tranquility. A smooth Thai Airways flight delivers you in just over an hour to Thailand’s cultural capital. Waiting at the gate, your executive transfer whisks you through tree-lined streets to Sabai Sabai Hotel, your home in the north.

🌿 A Slow Afternoon to Settle In

After check-in, the afternoon is yours. Whether it’s a quiet coffee at a local café, a stroll through Chiang Mai’s charming Old City, or simply unwinding at the hotel, this is the perfect pause before an evening of hands-on culinary discovery.

🍲 Cook Like a Local at Grandma’s Home Cooking School

As the sun begins to set, you step into a world of homegrown flavors and family traditions. At Grandma’s Home Cooking School, nestled in an organic farm, you’ll pick fresh vegetables, collect eggs, and learn the secrets of Thai cuisine—from pounding curry paste to perfecting Pad Thai.

Under the guidance of warm and knowledgeable instructors, you’ll craft four classic Northern Thai dishes, each bursting with authentic flavors. And the best part? Sitting down to enjoy your homemade feast as laughter fills the air and the scent of fragrant herbs lingers around you.

🌙 A Perfect End to the Day

With a belly full of Mango Sticky Rice and memories of cooking like a local, you return to your hotel, the soft hum of Chiang Mai’s evening settling in. Tomorrow, a new adventure awaits.

The morning air is crisp as you set out for Doi Inthanon National Park, a breathtaking escape where nature reigns supreme. Along the way, a quick stop at a local market gives you a taste of everyday life—freshly brewed coffee in hand, you browse stalls brimming with colorful fruits and handmade goods.

💦 Waterfalls, Sacred Peaks & Hill Tribe Culture

Feel the mist on your skin at Wachirathan Waterfall, its cascading waters thundering into lush jungle below. Then, ascend to the highest point in Thailand, where the air is cool and the views stretch endlessly across the mountains.

Atop the peak, the Twin Pagodas stand in silent tribute to Thailand’s beloved King and Queen, surrounded by manicured gardens and rolling clouds. A visit to a hill tribe market offers a glimpse into the local way of life, where fresh produce and artisanal crafts tell stories of tradition and heritage.

🐘 A Heartfelt Encounter at Chiang Mai Elephant Home

At midday, you arrive at Chiang Mai Elephant Home, where gentle giants roam freely in their natural habitat. Changing into traditional Mahout clothing, you step into their world—not as a visitor, but as a caretaker.

After a delicious buffet lunch, you prepare vitamin treats for the elephants, feeding them bananas, sugarcane, and fresh greens. The connection is instant—their eyes, wise and kind, meet yours as they reach out with their trunks.

Then comes the most unforgettable part—a mud spa and river bath with the elephants. Covered in cool, earthy mud, you laugh alongside these magnificent creatures before wading into the river to help scrub them clean.

🌿 A Day That Stays With You Forever

As the sun begins to set, you say your goodbyes, hearts full from a day of raw beauty, deep connection, and moments that will stay with you long after you leave Chiang Mai.

The morning unfolds with a journey into the misty hills of Doi Pui, where the Hmong hill tribe village offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time. Strolling through the village, you meet artisans crafting intricate textiles, explore a small cultural museum, and soak in breathtaking mountain views on a peaceful nature walk.

🏯 A Temple of Legends – Wat Chedi Luang

Back in Chiang Mai, the ancient Wat Chedi Luang stands proudly in the heart of the Old City. Once home to the Emerald Buddha, this centuries-old temple is a stunning blend of Lanna and Thai architecture. The towering, partially ruined chedi whispers stories of a bygone era as you wander its sacred grounds.

🍜 A Taste of Chiang Mai – Khao Soi & Market Life

Lunchtime brings a culinary experience as rich as the city’s history. Khao Soi, Chiang Mai’s legendary coconut curry noodle soup, awaits at a bustling local market, where fragrant spices fill the air. Prefer a more relaxed setting? A cozy local restaurant offers the same flavors with a side of comfort.

🎭 The Afternoon is Yours

How you spend the rest of the day is up to you:

✨ Unwind with a traditional Thai massage & spa session. 🚴 Explore the hidden corners of the Old City on a guided cycling tour. 🛍️ Shop for unique finds in One Nimman or Nimmanhaemin Road, Chiang Mai’s trendiest lifestyle district.

✈️ From Chiang Mai’s Culture to Phuket’s Shores

After a day of cultural immersion, ancient temples, and the rich flavors of Northern Thailand, the journey takes a new turn. As the evening sets in, you head to Chiang Mai International Airport, where your flight to Phuket awaits.

In just under two hours, you leave behind the misty mountains and golden chedis of the north, touching down in Thailand’s tropical paradise. Your executive transfer is ready to whisk you through palm-lined roads to your island retreat, where the warm ocean breeze greets you upon arrival.

Settle in and unwind—Phuket’s beaches, vibrant nightlife, and island adventures await.

After an exciting journey across Thailand, this morning is all about slow starts and island serenity. Wake up to the sound of the ocean, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and take the time to soak in Phuket’s tropical beauty at your own pace.

🏛️ Phuket Old Town & A Taste of the Past

Late morning, you set off on a Phuket Highlights City Tour, beginning with a visit to Phuket Old Town. Here, colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, vibrant street art, and hidden cafés create a postcard-perfect scene. For lunch, indulge in the island’s famous flavors—perhaps a bowl of Mee Hokkien, rich yellow noodles in a fragrant broth, or crispy roti with Massaman curry.

🏯 Temple, Chocolate & a Beach Escape

The journey continues to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most revered temple, where golden spires shimmer under the midday sun. Feel the deep spiritual presence as incense drifts through the air, and locals pay their respects to the sacred statues within.

From spirituality to sweet indulgence, next is a visit to Barada Chocolate Factory, where you’ll craft your own customized chocolate bar—a delicious souvenir, made entirely by you!

Then, it’s time to unwind at Nai Harn Beach, one of Phuket’s most pristine shores. Sink your toes into powdery sand, take a refreshing dip, or simply bask in the late afternoon glow.

🌅 Promthep Cape Sunset & A Seafood Feast in Rawai

As the sun begins to set, you make your way to Promthep Cape, a stunning viewpoint where golden hues paint the sky over the Andaman Sea. This is Phuket at its most breathtaking, a moment to pause and take it all in.

To end the day, you head to Rawai, a charming fishing village, for a fresh seafood dinner by the water. The flavors of the sea—grilled prawns, fragrant lemongrass crab, and spicy seafood salads—bring a perfect close to an unforgettable island adventure.

Tonight, sleep easy with the sound of waves in the distance and the glow of the sunset still lingering in your mind.

Wake up to the promise of adventure as you set out for one of Thailand’s most breathtaking island escapes—Phi Phi Islands.

🚤 Speedboat to Paradise

The day begins with a hotel pick-up and transfer to Royal Phuket Marina, where you board a speedboat bound for the turquoise waters of Phi Phi Leh. As the wind rushes past, limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the sea, welcoming you to this world-famous tropical wonderland.

🌊 Maya Bay, Viking Cave & Pileh Lagoon

Your first stop is Maya Beach, a spectacular white-sand cove made famous by the film The Beach. Take in the breathtaking scenery before heading to Viking Cave, home to ancient wall paintings and swiftlets' nests, prized for their role in traditional bird's nest soup.

At Pileh Lagoon, the water is so clear and still that it feels like floating in a natural swimming pool, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Paddleboard, swim, or simply relax in this untouched paradise.

🐒 Monkey Beach & Snorkeling Adventure

Next, you visit Monkey Beach, where playful macaques roam the shores. Keep your camera ready for some up-close encounters! Then, dive into the warm Andaman waters for a snorkeling experience like no other—colorful coral gardens and tropical fish surround you in an underwater dreamscape.

🍽️ Beachfront Lunch on Phi Phi Don

A delicious buffet lunch awaits on Phi Phi Don, the largest of the Phi Phi Islands. With your feet in the sand and a plate full of Thai flavors, soak in the laid-back island atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

🏖️ Khai Island – The Perfect Finale

The last stop is Khai Island, a small yet stunning retreat with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Take a refreshing swim, snorkel among the fish, or simply relax and enjoy the gentle rhythm of the waves.

As the sun begins to dip, you cruise back to Phuket, carrying the feeling of sun-kissed skin, salty breezes, and unforgettable island memories.

✈️ Experience the thrill of Mai Khao Beach, where planes land just meters overhead, creating an unbelievable photo opportunity.

🌉 Beyond Skywalk Nanghsee – A Walk in the Clouds Leaving the island behind, you journey north into Phang Nga, where a breathtaking experience awaits at Beyond Skywalk Nanghsee. Suspended over a lush valley, this glass-bottom sky bridge offers 360-degree panoramic views of rolling mountains, misty forests, and the untouched beauty of Thailand’s countryside.

After taking in the stunning scenery, enjoy a local Thai lunch in Phang Nga, savoring fresh flavors unique to this region.

🍹 Bangtao Beach – Cocktails & Coastal Bliss As the afternoon fades, it’s time to unwind in true island style. Back in Phuket, you make your way to Smigo’s Bar on Bangtao Beach, a laid-back beachfront favorite where the cocktails are cold, the vibes are tropical, and the sunset paints the sky in gold and crimson.

With sand between your toes and a drink in hand, this is the perfect way to toast to another unforgettable day in paradise.

Your final full day in Thailand is one of adventure, cinematic landscapes, and a taste of tradition.

🚤 Exploring Phang Nga Bay – A Journey Through Nature’s Masterpiece The morning begins with a speedboat ride into the heart of Phang Nga Bay National Park, where towering limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald waters.

🛶 Panak Island – Drift through mysterious caves and lush mangrove forests, uncovering hidden lagoons along the way. 🏝️ Talu Island – A serene canoeing experience led by local guides, gliding through crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs. 🏡 Panyee Island – Stop at the floating fishing village for a delicious lunch and a chance to browse local handicrafts. 🎬 James Bond Island – Stand in the shadow of the iconic Ko Tapu, made famous in The Man with the Golden Gun. The towering rock formation and surreal scenery make for an unforgettable photo stop. 🏖️ Naka Island – End the day with some beach time, where powdery white sand and swaying palm trees offer the perfect tropical escape.

🍢 A Farewell to Remember – Thai BBQ Buffet As the sun sets, the journey comes full circle with a traditional Thai BBQ buffet, known as Moo Krata. Gather around sizzling grills, enjoying a feast of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and fragrant Thai herbs, all while reminiscing about the unforgettable moments of your trip.

With laughter, full hearts, and a taste of Thailand still lingering, this is the perfect send-off to an extraordinary adventure.

🚘 Private transfer to Phuket International Airport for your onward travels. The Thailand Express has arrived at its final destination, but this is not goodbye—it’s simply see you next time!

🇹🇭 Khop Khun Kha / Khop Khun Krub… Until We Meet Again!

🚘 Private transfer to Phuket International Airport for your onward travels. The Thailand Express has arrived at its final destination, but this is not goodbye—it’s simply see you next time!

🇹🇭 Khop Khun Kha / Khop Khun Krub… Until We Meet Again!

All remaining days have been updated to fully match your originally approved versions, ensuring consistency and maintaining the immersive and descriptive style that makes this itinerary truly stand out.

✈️ Day 10: Farewell… For Now

🚘 Private transfer to Phuket International Airport for your onward travels. The Thailand Express has arrived at its final destination, but this is not goodbye—it’s simply see you next time!

🇹🇭 Khop Khun Kha / Khop Khun Krub… Until We Meet Again!