Thailand is known as one of the most diverse and enchanting destinations in the world. It’s no surprise that it’s also a fantastic place for family vacations. With its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly locals, Thailand offers a wealth of experiences for both adults and children. A perfect destination for a family road trip!
Bangkok
When you think of an adventure in Thailand with your kids, Bangkok is probably the first destination you’ll start with. This vibrant metropolis offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it an exciting place to explore—even for the little ones.
Accommodation
A great place to stay with your family is Mango Lagoon Place, located on the lively Ram Buttri Road. This hotel offers comfortable four-person rooms and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for unwinding after a day full of adventures. It also has a swimming pool, ideal for a refreshing dip after exploring the city.
Moreover, in the same street, you’ll find the restaurant Madam Musur. Here, you can enjoy delicious Thai dishes that will even satisfy the pickiest eaters. It’s also a great spot for breakfast.
There are also several massage parlors in this street. We enjoyed a wonderful massage here multiple times, and even the kids loved it! And the best part? It only costs €5 per hour!
Close to Mango Lagoon Place, you’ll find Thanon Ram Buttri, a lively street filled with cozy restaurants and stalls selling typical Thai souvenirs. Within walking distance is the famous Khao San Road—once a backpacker’s haven, now a mix of eateries, shops, and clubs.
China Town
Another must-visit attraction in Bangkok is Chinatown. The best way to get there is by taking a traditional tuk-tuk. Once you arrive, you can explore the bustling streets, enjoy delicious street food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Temples
And of course, a visit to Bangkok’s stunning temples is a must. We visited the following temples (there are many, but these are among the most famous):
Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the city along with a serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation and relaxation.
Wat Intharawihan is famous for its impressive standing Buddha, one of the largest in the world. Kids will be amazed by the towering statue and can learn about Buddhist traditions and rituals.
The Grand Palace, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is a must-see for families visiting Bangkok. Within the palace walls lies the famous Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, considered one of the holiest temples in Thailand.
Make sure to wear appropriate clothing when visiting these temples. This means covering your shoulders, and shorts are not allowed. Otherwise, you won’t be allowed in.
If you want to see the temples and other parts of Thailand in a spectacular way, you can also explore them by tuk-tuk boat. You can book it here.
Regio Kanchanaburi
From Bangkok, we traveled to Kanchanaburi. Located in western Thailand, the Kanchanaburi region offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and unique experiences. It’s just a few hours’ drive from Bangkok to this breathtaking destination. During our journey from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, we experienced some unforgettable highlights that I’d love to share with you.
Floating markets
Our journey began with a visit to the famous floating markets, one of Thailand’s most iconic sights. Once bustling with colorful boats navigating the canals, these markets have become much quieter in recent years, partly due to the global pandemic.
Despite this, it’s still a unique experience to cruise along the stalls in a small boat, discovering local products and delicious treats sold by vendors along the waterways. The floating markets can also be visited as a day trip from Bangkok—for example, with this tour.
River Kwai Jungle Rafts
From the lively atmosphere of the floating markets, we continued to our next adventure: River Kwai Jungle Rafts.
This unique hotel, located on the banks of the River Kwai, offers an experience beyond traditional accommodation.
Upon arrival, we were taken by boat to our floating bungalow, where we were immersed in a world of tranquility. The absence of electricity made the experience even more special, with evenings lit only by candles and flashlights. This definitely added to the magical atmosphere of the surroundings.
One of the highlights of our stay was the adventurous aspect of the hotel: the “floating” walkway. Drifting with the river’s current from the last bungalow to the first, all while enjoying the stunning surroundings, was an experience we won’t soon forget. Just make sure you get back to the shore in time to climb out! 😄
The hotel’s website mentions that you might see elephants being fed. However, after walking around, we saw that it was just one elephant chained up for the rest of the day—not something we would encourage.
Erawan Waterfalls
From the River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel, we visited the breathtaking Erawan Waterfalls. These falls, made up of seven tiers, provide a spectacular setting to experience Thailand’s natural beauty.
As we hiked along the waterfalls, we were greeted by the refreshing waters, and in some spots, we were allowed to take a dip. However, the pools are home to “cleaning fish,” which didn’t necessarily enhance the experience. While we did end up with super clean feet, our daughter wasn’t a fan of the tickling sensation!
History of Kanchanaburi
Besides the waterfalls, you can also visit the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. This historic railway bridge, built during World War II by prisoners of war under Japanese rule, is an important monument and memorial site. You can walk across the bridge and learn more about its history at the nearby JEATH War Museum.
This is a great tour that combines both the waterfalls and the history of Kanchanaburi.
Or visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum. This museum is dedicated to commemorating the victims who suffered during the construction of the Burma Railway in World War II. It features insightful exhibitions and informative guided tours through the Hellfire Pass area, where you can see the remains of the railway and learn about the horrific conditions the workers endured. Definitely more suitable for older children.
Or take a scenic train ride along the Death Railway, a historic railway built by prisoners of war and forced laborers during World War II. The journey offers stunning views of the picturesque landscapes along the River Kwai and is a powerful experience filled with history.
We didn’t do these activities ourselves, as we had to make choices. Having seen them years ago, we figured they wouldn’t be our children’s top preference.
The activities mentioned above can also be easily done as a tour from Bangkok. For example, this tour.
Ayutthaya
From the Kanchanaburi region, we traveled to Ayutthaya. This historic city in Thailand is known for its impressive temple ruins and rich cultural heritage.
During our visit to this enchanting destination, we stayed at Aiyara House Hotel. It’s a basic but comfortable and welcoming place that provided the perfect base for exploring the treasures of Ayutthaya.
Aiyara House
Although Aiyara House
wasn’t the most extravagant accommodation, it had everything we needed for a pleasant stay. The spacious four-person room was perfect for our family, providing plenty of comfort after a long day of sightseeing.
The hotel also had a restaurant where we could enjoy delicious Thai dishes, so we didn’t have to go far for a tasty meal.
Temples
Once settled in our hotel, we began our exploration of Ayutthaya. Taking a tuk-tuk ride, we visited some of the city’s most iconic temples.
One of the first temples we explored was Wat Chai Watthanaram, a stunning complex known for its elegant architecture and picturesque location along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Built in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong, this temple is one of the most photogenic spots in Ayutthaya and offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient kingdom.
Another impressive stop on our journey through Ayutthaya was **Wat Phra Mahathat**. This is one of the oldest and most important temples in the city, best known for its famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree—an iconic image symbolizing the destruction of the city during the Burmese invasion.
As we wandered through the ancient ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat, we could truly feel the rich history and spiritual significance of this remarkable place.
Both temples provided a fascinating glimpse into the glory and grandeur of the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom, serving as a reminder of Thailand’s rich culture and heritage.
If you’re staying in Ayutthaya, this is a great tour where you can explore the temples and the city by bike. The temples can also be visited from Bangkok on a day tour, such as this one.
Kao Yai
From Ayutthaya, we continued to Khao Yai, a nature reserve in Thailand known for its lush forests, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife.
During our visit to this stunning area, we stayed at Greenleaf Resort, a simple yet charming accommodation that immersed us in the natural beauty of Khao Yai.
Greenleaf Resort
Greenleaf Resort, though very basic, offered a comfortable stay at a very affordable price. Our room, with four beds practically filling the entire space and a small bathroom, was just what we needed after a day full of adventures in nature.
What really stood out, however, was the friendliness of the staff and the delicious food served at the little restaurant/terrace. For a price rarely found in today’s world, we enjoyed authentic Thai dishes that delighted our taste buds and introduced us to the local cuisine.
Greenleaf Resort turned out to be not only a comfortable base but also an excellent starting point for exploring Khao Yai National Park. The resort also functioned as a small travel agency, organizing tours through the park. They are well known for their outstanding service.
We had booked a multi-day tour with them in advance, and it was truly fantastic.
Park Kao Yai
Our first day was all about exploring some of the remarkable bat caves and witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of millions of bats flying out at sunset. It was an incredible experience to watch these nocturnal creatures fill the sky as they set off in search of food.
In addition, we visited a beautiful temple where we could ring the bells as we walked up—a special touch that made the visit even more memorable.
On the second day, we ventured deeper into the park in search of more adventure and wildlife encounters. We were rewarded with sightings of snakes, scorpions, tarantulas, giant centipedes up to 50 cm long, various exotic birds, large beetles, and even monkeys and deer.
We did our best to spot elephants after hearing they had just crossed the road before our arrival, but unfortunately, they remained hidden in the dense vegetation.
What made this experience truly special was not just the incredible diversity of wildlife we encountered, but also the passion and dedication of the family-run Greenleaf Resort. They went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable time, fully immersing us in the beauty of Khao Yai’s natural world.
For travelers seeking an authentic and affordable experience in Thailand’s lush wilderness, Khao Yai is a destination that should not be missed on their itinerary.
Chiang Mai
Night Train
From here, our adventure continued as we took the night train to Chiang Mai. We had two bunk beds next to each other, and the kids absolutely loved the experience—it felt like a real adventure to travel by night train!
Little Village
Chiang Mai, a vibrant city in northern Thailand, is known for its rich culture, stunning nature, and diverse activities. During our visit to this enchanting city, we stayed at Little Village, a charming resort run by Dutch owners. It provided us with a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai.
Little Village is a lovely spot, featuring beautiful wooden cottages and a refreshing pool where you can fully relax. The resort also has an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy both Thai specialties and Dutch favorites like frikandellenand kroketten.
And as if that wasn’t charming enough, the owner had rescued two newborn puppies from a trash bin just the day before we arrived—absolutely adorable!
For us, this was the perfect place to stay—away from the city’s hustle and bustle, yet close enough to explore all the attractions Chiang Mai has to offer.
Night Market
One of the highlights of our stay was visiting the famous Night Market in Chiang Mai. This vibrant market is a paradise for street food lovers and souvenir hunters, with countless stalls offering a wide range of delicious dishes and unique handmade products.
It’s an experience you simply can’t miss during your stay in Chiang Mai!
Bike Tour
We also took part in some exciting excursions, including a bike tour through the countryside, organized by Little Village. This relaxed ride gave us the opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings of Chiang Mai, with special bikes available for the kids so they could join in as well.
The tour can be arranged directly through Little Village.
Elephant Visit
Our encounter with Tomato and Papaya, the two elephants at Elephant Sanctuary Care Park, was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Chiang Mai. This park, founded and run by the dedicated Eddy, not only offers a unique opportunity to see elephants up close but is also committed to their well-being in an ethical and animal-friendly way.
Upon arriving at the park, we were greeted by Tomato and Papaya, two beautiful elephants roaming freely on a vast piece of land. It was heartwarming to see them calmly wandering around, indulging in their favorite food, and enjoying their freedom. It was clear that these majestic animals were happy and well cared for in this sanctuary.
Eddy, the owner of the park, passionately shared his dedication to the well-being of the elephants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he gave up and sold everything to care for Tomato and Papaya, and his love and respect for these animals shone through in everything he did.
It was truly inspiring to see his commitment to their protection and preservation, as well as the way he cared for them with the utmost respect and attention.
Feeding
One of the most special experiences was feeding the elephants with fresh fruit and vegetables. We got to see up close how they enjoyed their treats and how they skillfully used their trunks to bring the food to their mouths.
Walking
After feeding, we went on a walk with the elephants through the park. As we strolled through the lush vegetation, we enjoyed the company of these magnificent creatures and the soothing sounds of nature around us.
Mud Bath
Another highlight was the mud bath we shared with the elephants. In a specially designed pool, we covered them in mud, which not only helps cool and protect their skin but also created a fun and playful interaction between humans and animals.
It was an unforgettable moment of connection and joy that will stay with us for a long time.
River Bath
Finally, we joined the elephants in the river bath to help clean them. Under the guidance of experienced caretakers, we assisted in rinsing off the mud and dirt while the elephants enjoyed the refreshing water and the attention from their human friends.
All in all, our experience at Elephant Sanctuary Care Park was an unforgettable adventure that made us realize just how special and valuable these animals are. It was a privilege to be part of their world, even if only for a short time, and we will cherish this experience forever.
Authentic Village & Bamboo Rafting
We also explored an authentic village during another excursion, visited a beautiful waterfall, and enjoyed an exciting bamboo rafting trip on the way back. This tour can be booked here.
These activities gave us a unique glimpse into local life and the natural beauty of Chiang Mai, making our journey even more unforgettable.
All in all, Chiang Mai is a destination packed with adventures and experiences suitable for all ages. Whether you’re enjoying the tranquility of a resort like Little Village or seeking excitement through one of the many excursions, Chiang Mai has something for everyone and is definitely a must-visit during your trip to Thailand.
The Islands
Koh Tao
After a short flight from Chiang Mai, we landed in Surat Thani, the gateway to Thailand’s stunning islands. Our first destination was Koh Tao, a breathtaking island known for its beautiful beaches and amazing snorkeling opportunities.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by Seashell Resort, our home base during our stay on Koh Tao.
Seashell Resort
Seashell Resort provided us with a comfortable and pleasant stay, featuring spacious rooms separated by a glass partition. This allowed the kids to have their own space while the parents could enjoy some privacy. The resort also had a swimming pool and was just a stone’s throw from the stunning Sairee Beach, an idyllic spot to soak up the sun, sea, and sand.
Note! This hotel has since been converted into a hostel with poor reviews, so it may no longer be a recommended option.
Sairee Beach
Sairee Beach is a lively and vibrant spot, lined with cozy restaurants and bars where you can enjoy great food and relax. One of our favorite dining spots was Sairee Cottage Resort, located next to Seashell Resort.
Here, we enjoyed delicious meals in a laid-back atmosphere and were impressed by the charming bungalows the resort had to offer.
Snorkeling
Koh Tao is famous for its fantastic snorkeling spots, so we decided to join a snorkeling tour that took us to several beautiful locations, with Shark Bay as the highlight.
Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky enough to spot the turtles and sharks the bay is known for, but we still had an amazing time exploring the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish we encountered along the way. This is the tour we did, but this tour is even more extensive and could be a great option as well.
For those who prefer to explore on their own, there are plenty of snorkeling spots easily accessible from the shore. Locations like Shark Bay and Mountain Reef Resort, allow you to step straight into the water from the beach and discover the vibrant underwater world at your own pace.
Fire Show
One of the highlights of our stay on Koh Tao was the evening show at Lotus Resort,
located diagonally across from Seashell Resort. Here, we were treated to spectacular fire shows that our kids wanted to watch every single night.
These thrilling and mesmerizing performances added an extra dose of fun and excitement to our evenings on the island.
In addition to the beach fun and snorkeling adventures, we also enjoyed relaxing massages and manicures/pedicures, an experience that was greatly appreciated by both the adults and our kids.
All in all, our stay on Koh Tao was an unforgettable adventure full of fun, relaxation, and discovery.
Koh Samui
From Koh Tao, we took the boat to Koh Samui. Our journey began in the picturesque Fisherman’s Village, a charming town on the northern coast of Koh Samui.
Paradise Beach Resort
Here, we stayed at Paradise Beach Resort, a beautiful retreat with lush gardens, two swimming pools, and charming chalets. While the resort initially seemed idyllic, we soon discovered a few drawbacks.
The access to the sea was a bit challenging due to the slippery stone steps and deep water. Additionally, it was difficult to reach other dining options. One lovely restaurant nearby was Treehouse Resort, but it could only be accessed via the beach. However, there was high tide for much of the day, so we had to climb over rocks or wade through the water. Not ideal when walking with two kids in the dark.
Moreover, both the resort and the restaurant were considerably more expensive compared to other Thai accommodations and eateries. To get to Fisherman’s Village, we had to take a taxi, which was hard to find unless booked through the resort, where we paid top price.
The Waterfront Hotel
After two days, we moved to The Waterfront Hotel, located on the edge of Fisherman’s Village. This hotel not only offered a more affordable stay but was also within walking distance of the vibrant streets and restaurants of the town. Situated on the beach, it also had a pool. Here, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere and discovered a wealth of local eateries, shops, and markets.
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Culinary Surprises
One of our favorite discoveries was Sasatorn, an authentic Thai restaurant with a calm atmosphere and delicious dishes. Here, you could still experience real Thai street food, which is becoming harder to find. Since it’s a bit outside the city center, it’s quiet in the evenings, but it’s cozy for lunch. It might also be a better option, as the menu doesn’t have much for kids, but they do offer croissants and wafflesfor lunch.
Thai Tapas was also an absolute must-try, especially for families with children, thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere and varied menu. However, it’s essential to make a reservation in advance.
Island Tour
In addition to exploring the culinary delights of Koh Samui, we also took the time to explore the island with a driver. We visited stunning waterfalls, like the Na Muang Falls, where we took beautiful photos at the crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery.
Samui Snake Farm
We also visited the Samui Snake Farm, a unique attraction that gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating world of snakes. Upon arrival, you can walk around and see the various snakes in their enclosures.
A highlight of our visit to the Snake Farm was the snake show, where trained handlers demonstrated the skills and behavior of various snakes. We watched in awe as the handlers skillfully and confidently handled the snakes.
We also learned a lot about their way of life and natural habitat. After the show, we had the opportunity to have a large anaconda draped around our necks—an experience that definitely gave us an adrenaline rush! The kids had to team up to handle the snake, as it would have been too heavy for just one of them. Luckily, the massive snake was well-fed and wasn’t hungry 😉. It was a very impressive moment for the kids.
Coco Tam’s
In the evening, we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere at Coco Tam’s, a popular beach bar in Fisherman’s Village. Here, we could unwind on large bean bags, sip refreshing (non-alcoholic) cocktails, and nibble on tasty snacks.
They also had breathtaking fire shows that lit up the night sky, adding to the vibrant ambiance.
Although Koh Samui is definitely worth a visit, we would personally recommend Koh Tao more. It offers prettier beaches, a more relaxed vibe, and better opportunities for snorkeling. However, if you do visit Koh Samui, Fisherman’s Village is a must-see destination. With its charm, vibrancy, and abundance of cultural experiences, this town will surely leave a lasting impression.
Additionally, in 2022, many tourist spots were nearly deserted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with tourism in Thailand still at only 25% of pre-pandemic levels. The only place still full of life was Fisherman’s Village.
After Koh Tao, we returned to Bangkok, where we spent one more night before heading back to the Netherlands. All in all, Thailand was a fantastic destination for making a long-distance trip with kids.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading about our adventures in Thailand! If you’re looking for more travel tips, follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. I regularly share inspiring travel stories, tips, and photos to make your next trip even more unforgettable. Or check out my other blogs for beautiful vacation ideas and helpful tips.
Thank you for your support, and stay tuned for more adventures from around the world. See you on the next journey! 🌍✈️
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