7 Days Thai Islands, Thailand Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary explores the best of the Thai Islands, starting in Phuket, venturing to the iconic Phi Phi Islands, and concluding in the stunning Krabi and Railay Beach. Expect breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
The dry season from November to February offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it the most popular time to visit
Activities
27
Daily Avg
$150/day
Pace
Moderate
The Thai Islands offer stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. This itinerary balances relaxation with adventure, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems across Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi, and Railay Beach.
Your itinerary covers 6 of 10 must-have experiences
Postcard-Perfect Beaches & Hidden Coves
Day 3: Longtail Boat Trip to Maya Bay & Snorkeling
Island Hopping & Longtail Boat Adventures
Day 3: Ferry to Phi Phi Islands
Vibrant Underwater World Exploration
e.g., Snorkeling around Koh Lipe, Diving in Koh Tao (e.g., Chumphon Pinnacle)
Bustling Local Markets & Authentic Street Food
Day 7: Breakfast at a Local Cafe
Panoramic Sunset Viewpoints & Rooftop Bars
Day 4: Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint
Traditional Thai Massage & Wellness Retreats
e.g., Oasis Spa (Phuket), Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary (Koh Samui)
Jungle Adventures & Outdoor Thrills
e.g., Ziplining (e.g., Flying Hanuman in Phuket), Rock Climbing at Railay Beach (Krabi)
Serene Temples & Cultural Landmarks
Day 2: Visit Big Buddha
Vibrant Island Nightlife & Beach Parties
Day 2: Visit Patong Beach
Authentic Thai Cooking Classes
e.g., Phuket Thai Cooking Class by VJ, Time for Lime (Koh Lanta)
Thai island cuisine is a vibrant mix of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices. Expect flavorful curries, grilled seafood feasts, and refreshing salads, often with a touch of sweetness. The islands offer a diverse range of dining options, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes
A hot and sour soup with prawns, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. A true taste of Thailand, the island versions often use the freshest seafood.
📍 Street food stalls, restaurants, local eateries
Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and egg. A classic Thai dish found everywhere, but the island versions often include fresh seafood variations.
📍 Street food stalls, restaurants, beachside vendors
A creamy coconut milk-based curry with green chilies, vegetables, and meat (chicken, pork, or seafood). Served with rice. Island versions often feature locally caught seafood.
📍 Restaurants, local eateries
A mild, slightly sweet curry with potatoes, onions, peanuts, and meat (usually chicken or beef). Reflects a Persian influence. Often found in Muslim-influenced areas.
📍 Restaurants, Muslim-influenced areas
Food Neighborhoods
Known for its variety of international and Thai restaurants, including beachside dining.
Known for its Friday Walking Street market with numerous food stalls.
Known for its bustling street food scene and seafood restaurants.
Known for its relaxed vibe and selection of Thai and Western restaurants.
Vegetarian options are widely available, but be sure to specify 'jay' (vegetarian) or 'vegan' to avoid fish sauce or oyster sauce. Halal food is available in Muslim-majority areas. Gluten-free options are less common, so it's best to inquire about ingredients. Be mindful of spice levels, and ask for 'mai phet' (not spicy) if needed. Allergies should be communicated clearly and repeatedly.
Use a spoon and fork to eat rice-based dishes. Chopsticks are typically used for noodle dishes. Sharing dishes is common. Don't fill your plate too full. It's polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show you're full. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 10%).
Songkran
Thai New Year water festival - the world's largest water fight.
Note: Book 1 month ahead
Loy Krathong
Festival of Lights with floating lanterns and flower offerings on water.
Note: Book 1-2 months ahead for Chiang Mai
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Arrive at Phuket International Airport (HKT) & Transfer to Hotel at Phuket International Airport to Phuket Old Town$20
12:00 PM - Arrive at Phuket International Airport (HKT) & Transfer to Hotel
Take a pre-booked taxi or airport shuttle to your hotel in Phuket Old Town. Consider a hotel near Thalang Road for easy access to attractions.
- 🚶Taxi from hotel to Raya Restaurant$15
2:00 PM - Lunch at Raya Restaurant
Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a beautiful Sino-Portuguese building. Try their signature crab curry.
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- 🚶Walk around Phuket Old TownFree (museum entrance $5)
3:30 PM - Explore Phuket Old Town
Wander through the colorful streets of Phuket Old Town, admiring the Sino-Portuguese architecture. Visit the Thai Hua Museum to learn about the town's history.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Phuket Old Town to One Chun Cafe$12
6:00 PM - Dinner at One Chun Cafe
Try local Phuket dishes in a charming cafe setting. Their Moo Hong (braised pork belly) is highly recommended.
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Phuket Old Town
Charming historical area with Sino-Portuguese architecture, local markets, and restaurants.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The dry season from November to February offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it the most popular time to visit. March to May is the hot season, with high temperatures and increasing humidity. The rainy season, from May/June to October, brings daily downpours, especially on the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi), though showers are often short-lived. The Gulf Coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) often experiences its peak rainy season later, typically September to November.
During the peak season, the Thai Islands experience warm, sunny days with low humidity. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for beach activities and island hopping. The sea is calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
November to February is the dry season, making it the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather.
Songkran (Thai New Year) in April can affect travel due to celebrations and increased traffic.
Getting Around
BTS/MRT in Bangkok; songthaews and tuk-tuks elsewhere
Rabbit Card (BTS) / MRT Card
Use Grab for fair-priced rides. Always agree on tuk-tuk fare before getting in.
Travel
$150-300 (ferries, taxis, internal flights)Accommodation
$200-400 (moderate hotels/guesthouses)Food
$200-350 (mix of street food and restaurants)Activities
$150-350 (tours, entrance fees)Embrace street food and local markets for incredibly delicious and affordable meals. Eating at 'pad-thai' stalls or small eateries will save you a lot compared to tourist restaurants.
Utilize local transport like songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) or shared minivans instead of private taxis for inter-town travel on larger islands.
Invest in a private longtail boat tour for a day. It offers flexibility to explore hidden coves and beaches away from the crowds, providing a truly bespoke island experience.
Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage at a reputable spa. While cheap massages are everywhere, a higher-end spa experience offers superior service and ambiance.
Always carry small Thai Baht notes (20, 50, 100 THB) as many street vendors and small shops prefer cash and may not have change for large denominations.
Don't be afraid to haggle respectfully at markets for souvenirs and clothing. Start by offering around 50-70% of the initial asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.
- Always agree on taxi or tuk-tuk fares before starting your journey, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab where available to avoid overpaying.
- Respect local customs: dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering homes or temples. The head is sacred, and the feet are considered impure.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water; tap water is not safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
- Be cautious when renting scooters; ensure you have appropriate insurance, a valid international driving permit, and always wear a helmet. Roads can be challenging.
- Carry small denominations of Thai Baht for street food, local markets, and smaller shops, as not all vendors accept cards.
- Protect yourself from mosquitos, especially at dawn and dusk, by using repellent and wearing light, long-sleeved clothing. Dengue fever is present.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases like 'Sawasdee ka/krup' (hello/goodbye) and 'Kob kun ka/krup' (thank you) – it's appreciated by locals.
- Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile. Avoid overly aggressive haggling.
- 1Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) for hot and humid weather
- 2Swimwear and beach cover-ups
- 3Reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF to protect marine life
- 4Mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin
- 5Comfortable walking sandals or flip-flops for daily wear
- 6Waterproof dry bag for boat trips and beach excursions
- 7Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, motion sickness medication)
- 8Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- 9Power bank/portable charger for electronics
- 10Sarong or lightweight scarf (useful for temple visits and beach cover-up)
International flights
Book 3-6 months in advance for the best prices, especially during peak season (Nov-Feb).
Accommodation
Reserve 2-4 months ahead, particularly for popular islands and peak travel dates, to secure preferred options.
Travel Insurance
Purchase immediately after booking your flights and initial accommodation to cover unforeseen circumstances.
Visa (if required)
Check Thailand's visa requirements for your nationality; apply at least 1-2 months before travel if needed.
Major inter-island ferry or bus/ferry combo tickets
Book a few weeks in advance for popular routes (e.g., from Phuket to Phi Phi, or Koh Samui to Koh Phangan), especially during high season or holidays.
Popular tours (e.g., Phi Phi Island hopping, Similan Islands day trip)
Reserve 1-2 weeks ahead, as these can sell out quickly, particularly eco-tours or those with limited spots.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website (install and purchase before arrival)
📍 Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), official AIS stores, 7-Eleven (limited availability)
📍 Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), official dtac stores, 7-Eleven (limited availability)
📍 Online booking through rental company websites, airport pickup or delivery
WiFi is widely available in hotels, resorts, cafes, and restaurants. Quality can vary, with speeds generally being faster in tourist areas. Some public areas may offer free WiFi, but it's often limited or requires registration.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable and affordable data access. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Check the WiFi speed at your accommodation before committing. Be aware of potential roaming charges if using your home country's SIM. Pocket WiFi can be a good option for groups or families.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three round pins (Thai)
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% at sit-down restaurants if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 10 baht
20–50 baht per bag for porters
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leave change at casual eateries.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Thailand is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded areas. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
191
1669
199
1155 (English-speaking)
Tourist police (1155) is the best option for visitors
Payments
Cash preferred at markets, street food, and small shops
Widely accepted at malls, hotels, and mid-range+ restaurants
Growing acceptance; PromptPay QR codes common
ATMs dispense 1000-baht notes; break them at 7-Eleven. Carry small bills for street vendors.
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How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to February for pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Shoulder seasons (March-May and September-October) can offer a good balance of weather and fewer tourists.
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