Thailand


Thailand family holiday guide


Are you considering a family holiday to Thailand? Welcome, you’ve come to the right place. In this Thailand family holiday guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know for an easy family holiday. From where to go, to inspiration on things to do and where to stay. So pack your bags and get ready for the journey of a lifetime in the land of smiles!

Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand is a country of contrasts and a popular destination for those seeking a unique and enriching travel experience. With its tropical climate, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people, Thailand will capture your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.


Inspiration for your Thailand family holiday



Useful facts about Thailand


  • Capital: Bangkok
  • Currency: Thai Baht
  • Main religion: Buddhism
  • Time zone: GMT +7
  • Landmass: 513,120 km²
  • Essential numbers: Emergency 191, Tourist Police 1155, Country Code 66
  • Official language: Thai
  • Population: 71.8 million (2023)
  • Electricity: 220V AC. Two-prong round and flat are the most common sockets.
  • Wifi: Free as a standard in most hotels and many cafes

Where to go on your Thailand family holiday


Bangkok

Unless you’ve flown straight into the beaches further south, Bangkok (the capital city of Thailand) is where most international flights touch down for your family holiday. If your only introduction to Bangkok has been to watch The Hangover 2, I advise you to quickly dismiss what you’ve seen. This city is way classier than the movies! Bangkok has world-class attractions, air-conditioned megamalls that sit comfortably nearby village streets, delicious food, and accommodation for all budgets.

The top attraction in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, a complex of stunning buildings that once served as the Thai King’s home. Don’t miss this on your family holiday to Thailand. Over two centuries old, the Grand Palace is now used for ceremonial purposes. Religion and devotion aside, it’s the perfect example of Thai architecture and art, with intricate carvings, golden spires and murals.

Popular with families is the floating markets, where vendors sell their goods from long-tailed boats on the canals. Those seeking a break can head to Lumpini Park for a picnic. Also, it would be a crime to pass up the opportunity to try mango sticky rice here.

thailand family holiday
A building at the Grand Palace © Jessica Palmer

Kanchanaburi

For something different on your holiday, a three-hour bus ride from bustling Bangkok will take families to Kanchanaburi, a province located in western Thailand. Although this region is blessed with stunning natural beauty, it’s perhaps best known for its World War II history.

Don’t miss the Bridge over the River Kwai, which was built by prisoners of war during WWII. Families can visit the bridge and the nearby museums and learn about the railway construction’s history and the prisoners’ lives.

Another must-see attraction in Kanchanaburi is the Erawan National Park, which features Erawan Falls. Here, seven tiers of waterfalls tumble through the forest, and you can swim in the resulting natural pools. This will be a highlight of any families holiday to Thailand. Be warned, you will be sharing the water with fish that tend to nibble on your legs if you don’t keep moving them.

thailand family holiday
Erawan Falls © Jessica Palmer

Phuket

Phuket is an island in the south of Thailand on the Andaman Coast and families have been flocking here for for years, making it one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations. With its stunning beaches and turquoise sea, this place makes you want to sell everything you own and move here.

Stroll through Phuket Old Town, day trip out to islands, and snorkel and swim your way to family holiday bliss. The only downside to Phuket is that everybody else knows about it, making it less relaxing than one would like.

Phuket offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy guest houses to luxurious resorts. Given its popularity, don’t expect Phuket to be cost-effective compared to other regions in Thailand on your family holiday.

thailand family holiday
Patong Beach, Phuket © Jessica Palmer

Krabi

Krabi is where to head on your Thailand family holiday when Phuket is just that little bit too much. Stunningly beautiful with angular limestone karst formations jutting majestically out of the turquoise water, this place is the perfect tropical getaway for families looking for adventure and relaxation on Thailand’s beaches.

One of the top attractions in Krabi is Ao Nang Beach, a long stretch of white sand that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. Families can take a long-tail boat ride to nearby islands. One not to be missed day trip is to Railay Beach, which offers stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Another must-see attraction in Krabi is the Tiger Cave Temple, a Buddhist temple located on a hillside that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Families can climb the steep stairs to the top of the hill and explore the various temples and shrines along the way.

Overall, Krabi offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families. This is our top pick of Thailand beach destinations for family holidays.

thailand family holiday
Railay Beach, Krabi © Jessica Palmer

Ko Samui

Ko Samui is for those seeking an island destination with all the mod cons of resorts, restaurants and buzzing nightlife and has long been a sought after holiday destination for families in Thailand. There are a number of nice beaches here with Chaweng Beach being the most popular due to its location on the main tourist drag. Families can also take a speedboat or longtail boat to nearby islands such as Pig Island, which indeed features friendly pigs.

Go zip-lining through the jungle, explore temples, jump on a snorkel tour, enjoy a Thai massage and more. Ko Samui offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from guesthouses to luxurious resorts. However, activities here are a heck more pricier than other areas of Thailand.

thailand family holiday
Grabbing a long-tail boat to Pig Island from Ko Samui © Jessica Palmer

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, a city located in northern Thailand, is a destination that is definitely worth visiting. One of the top attractions in Chiang Mai is the ancient city walls and moat, which provide a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. Families can take a leisurely walk along the walls and enjoy the scenic views, or rent a bike and explore the city at their own pace.

Another must-see attraction in Chiang Mai is Doi Suthep Temple, a Buddhist temple on a hilltop that offers great views on a clear day. Families can also take a day trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, which is home to a herd of elephants that visitors can feed and bathe. You will see first-hand how these rescued elephants are pampered daily.

For a truly memorable Thailand adventure, consider booking a multi-day 4WD tag-a-long tour. We’ve done one of these and it was truly amazing.

thailand family holiday
Walking the streets of Chiang Mai © Jessica Palmer

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, just a few hours by bus from Chiang Mai, is an utterly charming city in Thailand’s northernmost province. If you have the time to spend a few days here, there is plenty to see and do.

One of the top attractions in Chiang Rai is the White Temple, a stunning temple designed by an artist that features intricate carvings, murals, and sculptures. While you’re temple hopping, go ahead and visit the Blue Temple as well. Families can also take a trip to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet and learn about the region’s opium trade history at the Opium Museum. For a unique and immersive experience, families can visit a local hill tribe village.

While you’re in town, don’t miss the Night Market for dinner and souvenirs or Cat’n’Cup cafe where you can grab a cold frappe to enjoy while surrounded by pampered cats.

Learning about the Hill Tribes around Chiang Rai © Jessica Palmer

Where to stay on your Thailand family holiday


Booking.com

YouTube inspiration for your Thailand family holiday



Resources for booking your family holiday to Thailand


Flights

Most international flights will land in either Bangkok or Phuket. Although less common, flights are also available into Chiang Mai.  Search Trip.com for a great deal on flights to Thailand.

Accommodation

We recommend the following hotels and resorts in Thailand:

Activities and tours

Viator is a great choice when it comes to selecting activities and tours. Just click on the banner below!

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Where to next?


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Comments

2 responses to “Thailand”

  1. Espiritu Santo Vanuatu Accommodation Avatar

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    1. Jessica Palmer Avatar

      Hi Turtle Bay Lodge. We love Santo – in fact, visiting Santo is one of the best family holidays we have ever had. I remember passing Turtle Bay on the way down to Port Olry where we stayed and thought at the time that it looks incredibly beautiful. You are very blessed to be located in such a beautiful area!

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