Breathtaking tropical islands, exciting interactions with elephants, mouthwatering Thai food, and friendly locals make Thailand an ideal destination for families.
It could be tricky to plan a family trip that keeps everyone engaged, especially when travelling with seniors and teens. Read further to check out the ultimate guide, including the best kid-friendly things to do, how long to spend in Thailand, top itineraries, etc.
- The 6 Best Things to Do in Thailand With Kids
- How Long to Spend in Thailand
- Top 3 Family-Oriented Itineraries to Thailand
- How Much Does a Family Trip to Thailand Cost?
- Best Times to Visit Thailand for Family Vacations
- How to Select a Family-Friendly Hotel in Thailand
- How to Get Around Thailand With Your Family
The 6 Best Things to Do in Thailand With Kids
Ranked as the premier family destination in Southeast Asia, Thailand presents diverse activities for you and your kids to bond over. Check out the following 6 exciting activities for families.
1. Enjoy Beach Fun on the Picturesque Islands
Thailand boasts numerous stunning islands, with some of the most renowned being Phuket and Koh Samui. If your family loves vibrant nightlife and rich water activities, Phuket is a great choice, while Koh Samui is more suitable for a laid-back beach vacation in a tranquil atmosphere.
If you want some special, intimate moments together, hop on your exclusive charter speedboat to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket, capture photos of film-worthy beaches, and snorkel to see the lovely fishes and colorful coral.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Bangkok and Chiang Mai
In Bangkok, our guide Ann and driver "Mr. Ot" (I don't know how to spell his name) were very friendly and professional. You simply can't underestimate the value of having an English speaking guide to show you around, and a driver with a comfortable, sizeable, air-conditioned van take you from place to place. Ann taught us so much about Thailand's history, food, and religion. Mr. Ot always opened our door with a smile, and had cool towels and ice-cold bottled water for us. More
, Apr 2024
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Very great experience our driver D was…
Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling More
Rylan Coache, Feb 2024
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Excellent guide in Siem Reap
Our recent time spent in Siem Reap was made even more memorable by our expert guide, Som Piseth. Som was knowledgeable, attentive, flexible and super helpful - we learnt so much about Siem Reap and Cambodia in our 3 days with him. His English was excellent and his knowledge of, and pride in, his country was outstanding. We would highly recommend Som for anyone wanting an excellent guide in Siem Reap! More
Sharon Townshend, Feb 2024
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2. Feed and Bathe Elephants in an Elephant Sanctuary
Chiang Mai is a popular destination to see elephants up close in a wide open space. If you would like a more exclusive experience, visit Elephant Hill's almost untouched exclusive camp at Khao Sok National Park.
Your kids could feed elephants tasty treats, make their medicine/protein rice balls, and then bathe them if you like. Contact us for a professional photographer to capture these memorable moments for your family.
3. Take a Tuk-Tuk and Longtail Boat Ride to Explore Bangkok
Taking local transportation is the best way to unveil city life from a unique perspective. Tuk-tuks and longtail boats stand out as the iconic modes of transport in Bangkok.
An exhilarating tuk-tuk ride could make your kids feel excited. You would navigate through the bustling streets of Bangkok, heading towards medieval temples. If you prefer a more relaxing way to travel, longtail boats are more suitable for all ages. A sunset boat ride would further enhance your trip.
4. Trek, Kayak and Camp in Khao Sok National Park
elephant hill-activity-longtail-boat rideKhao Sok National Park harbors one of Earth's oldest rainforests, promising an untouched jungle adventure. Trek in the dense jungle, venture into dark caves and kayak amidst the limestone hills surrounding Cheow Lan Lake.
For an unforgettable family adventure, spend the night in a tented camp nestled within the jungle, and unwind in a floating raft house on the tranquil river.
5. Foodie Experiences in Chiang Mai
Hunting local foods reveals hidden gems in a fascinating manner, especially for curious kids. Chiang Mai stands out as one of the prime destinations for sampling street food. Wander through bustling food markets, engage in friendly conversations with vendors, and indulge in local specialties such as fruit, Mango Sticky Rice, Spicy Sausage, and Banana Roti.
More impressively, step into a local family, pick up the vegetables/ herbs and create Thai cuisines together.
6. Take a Train Along the Death Railway and Stay at a Floating House in Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is renowned for its historical war sites. Immerse yourself in history with a train ride along the Death Railway and a walk across the Bridge over the River Kwai. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a visit to the picturesque Erawan Waterfall. Refresh your day with a dip in its crystal-clear waters!
When night falls, take a motorized raft to your floating house for a one-of-a-kind stay!
How Long to Spend in Thailand
For the first visit to Thailand, most families usually choose to stay 10 days to 2 weeks to discover the highlights.
With about 10 days, you're suggested to take the classic route to explore the best of Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and an island. You could also make your way to Kanchanaburi for 1-2 days.
For a more expansive 14-day journey, delve into hidden treasures like Chiang Rai and Khao Sok National Park beyond the popular destinations.
If you have a limited window of 5-7 days, you're suggested to visit Bangkok and/ or 1 other popular city. Over 2 weeks, you can get an in-depth exploration of Thailand at a slower pace or add excursions to nearby countries, like Cambodia and Vietnam.
Top 3 Family-Oriented Itineraries to Thailand
Here, you'll discover our top 3 handpicked itineraries tailored for families. These itineraries have been highly praised by our previous clients, giving you a great starting point to customize your family trip.
Itinerary 1: 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour for Families
Discover the top highlights of Thailand with this 10-day classic tour that offers family fun for all ages.
- 3 nights in Bangkok
- 3 nights in Chiang Mai
- 3 nights in Phuket
In this itinerary, start your family trip from its vibrant capital—Bangkok. Explore the city with top-rated experiences, such as temples, tuk-tuk rides and night markets. Then venture into Kanchanaburi for war sites, like the Bridge over the River Kwai, and floating rafts from/to Bangkok.
Next, indulge your family in the culturally-rich Chiang Mai. Interact with elephants in a sanctuary, cook Thai dishes together and partake in the almsgiving ritual.
Unwind on the fabulous island of Phuket with a private speedboat to the Phi Phi Islands, and free beach time.
Read more itinerary details at our 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour or get other 10-day options from the Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days.
Itinerary 2: 12-Day Thailand Family Vacation
- Days 1–3 in Bangkok (arrival and a classic city tour with iconic temples, a floating market and a railway market)
- Days 4–5 in Kanchanaburi (bridge over the river Kwai, a floating house stay, and Erawan Falls)
- Days 6–8 in Chiang Mai (City exploration with a rickshaw ride, a cooking class, making floating lanterns, and an elephant sanctuary)
- Days 9–12 in Koh Samui (have some free beach time with water activities)
If your family prefers some quieter family bonding hours, look no further than this itinerary.
Compared with the 10-day itinerary, you would soak in Bangkok's local life deeply by adding the Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. In Chiang Mai, making floating lanterns together with a sunset dinner would enhance your special moments.
Moreover, you and your kids can experience a one-of-a-kind stay in a floating house in Kanchanaburi and unwind on the serene beaches of Koh Samui.
Itinerary 3: 2-Week Exploration of Thailand Tour
- Days 1–3: Bangkok (arrival and a classic city tour with iconic temples, a floating market and a railway market)
- Days 4-5: Khao Yai National Park (Trekking, night safari and camping in the jungle)
- Days 6-7: Chiang Rai (temple tour, the Golden Triangle and a hill tribe village)
- Days 8-9: Chiang Mai(City exploration, a cooking class, and an elephant sanctuary)
- Days 10-14: Phuket (an island hopping tour to Phi Phi Islands, free beach time)
If you seek a comprehensive experience of Thailand, this 14-day itinerary is perfect for you. It well blends bustling city life, jungle adventures, cultural immersion and beach fun.
Beyond the top highlights of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, you could take your active teens to trek and camp at Khao Yai National Park and take a boat to view the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet in serene Chiang Rai.
Insider tips: If you prefer a less-beaten jungle experience, head to Khao Sok National Park, which is just a 3-hour drive from Phuket.
Want more inspiration on your itinerary? Feel free to contact us for a customized itinerary tailored to your specific travel duration.
How Much Does a Family Trip to Thailand Cost?
Thailand offers great value for money in Southeast Asia from budget travel to luxury treats with your family.
A hassle-free family trip typically ranges from US$200 to US$250 per person per day, with discounts of 30–50% available for children under 10. This price includes quality hotels, private guides and drivers, as well as authentic local experiences.
Serving over 10,000 satisfied clients every year, we are experienced in creating life-lasting moments for families. Here are our best-selling customizable tours for more inspiration:
- 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour: from US$1,959 per person
- 12-Day Thailand Family Vacation: from US$2,499 per person
- 13-Day Essence of Thailand Tour: from US$2,599 per person
Best Times to Visit Thailand for Family Vacations
Weather-wise, the best time to visit Thailand is November to April. If you're celebrating Christmas and New Year with your family in Thailand, prepare for early booking at least 3 months in advance.
For families traveling with school-aged children, the summer holidays (June to August) are also an option, despite being the rainy season in Thailand. During this period, you may encounter short bursts of rain in the afternoons, typically lasting 1-2 hours. To mitigate the impact of rain, consider visiting Thailand in June for less rainfall or take a flexible private tour to maximize your time outdoors during the drier hours.
How to Select Family-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
A fantastic stay can truly enhance your travel experience. In Bangkok, choosing a hotel in the bustling city center lets you dive into the vibrant nightlife scene. For a taste of Chiang Mai's history and culture, stay in a traditional Lanna-style hotel. When it comes to island escapes, whether you're in a treehouse or a cozy beachfront resort with infinity pools, you're in for a treat.
It's important to note that most hotels only allow parents and one kid in a standard room. For families with two or more kids, it's advisable to book interconnected rooms, suites, or villas. Due to huge demand, you're suggested to book at least 3 months in advance to secure your preferred hotels.
Too hectic to select family hotels? Contact us to tailor-make your family vacation, as we've selected diverse family hotels with pools at best agent rate.
How to Get Around Thailand With Your Family
Bangkok is the main gateway of Thailand. American travelers have to fly over 20 hours, while European and Australian travelers just need around 10 hours.
Upon arrival, flights are affordable and comfortable choices to travel between cities. With frequent delays, the slower train rides are only suitable for seasoned travelers with rich travel time and without too much luggage. If you want to experience it, you could choose the 1-hour train ride along the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi.
For city tours and visiting remote areas, a private transfer is highly recommended. Our door-to-door service would save your family from navigation challenges and long walks.
For island hopping, the primary hurdles involve planning optimal routes and obtaining ferry tickets that align with your itinerary. For instance, traveling from Phuket to Phi Phi Island necessitates a boat journey, whereas commuting from Khao Sok National Park to Phuket typically requires a bus or private transfer. Share your interests with us and your 1:1 expert will personalize an itinerary for you in 24 hours!
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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
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