Experience Thailand at its very best, from bustling Bangkok and the tropical beachside paradise of Phuket to the mystic mountain marvels of enchanting Chiang Mai. Explore ancient temples, colourful floating markets, neon-lit urban metropolis and a soul-stirring elephant sanctuary. Relax at a luxury Phuket beach resort. Attend a renowned Thai cooking school. Savour the tantalising flavours of Thai cuisine and let the warmth of its people touch your heart. Experience it all on our small-group journey with immersive touring of Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Mae Klong Railway Market and the Elephant Nature Park. Be awestruck by the vibrant spirit, glittering palm fringed beaches and rich traditions of Thailand. Be mesmerised by Bangkok’s glittering golden temples, sizzling street food, and inimitable urban pulse. Surrender to Phuket’s dreamy tropical island paradise – a kaleidoscope of turquoise bays, vibrant markets, dazzling beaches and intoxicating coastal energy. Fall in love with the ancient temples, distinctive culture and mist covered mountain peaks of Chiang Mai, the traditional heart of northern Thailand. Drift thought the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market atop a traditional long-tail boat – an enchanting tapestry of local life alive with colour, canal-side chaos and timeless Thai charm. Delight in one of Thailand’s most heartwarming experiences at the Elephant Nature Park – a soul-stirring sanctuary where rescued elephants roam freely through lush landscapes. Feel the exhilaration of the Mae Klong Railway Market as vibrant stalls sit perched atop an active railway track – an unforgettable display of resilience. Experience the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Explore the unimaginable wealth of attractions. History is all around you as we discover the everchanging landscapes, stories, culture and cuisines. Discover the real Thailand with HolidayMax’s immersive small-group touring. Everything is included in this amazing value package, flights, hotels, small-group touring and transfers. Themes include: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Chiang Mai, Departs from Bangkok, Small Coach, Returns from San Kamphaeng. + Show more

Package Includes

International flights: Australia to Bangkok & Phuket to Australia
Small-group touring
Travel by modern luxury vehicle
Tour leader and host, with local guides
Flight Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Flight Chiang Mai to Phuket
4 Nights Bangkok hotel (superior 4 Star)
3 Nights Chiang Mai hotel (superior 4 Star)
3 Nights Phuket Beach Resort (superior 4 Star)
10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

Bangkok (Thailand) Phuket (Thailand) Chiang Mai (Thailand) Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Mae Klong Railway Market Elephant Nature Park

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Experience Bangkok, Phuket & Chiang Mai

• Enjoy free flexi-days to explore Bangkok & Phuket

• Visit floating markets, railway market & elephant sanctuary

• Enjoy free-time to explore at your own pace

• Traditional Thai temples, markets & palaces

• Phuket’s dreamy tropical island paradise

• Luxury Phuket Beach Resort, plenty of beach time

• Renowned Thai cooking school

• Authentic street dinner in Bangkok

• Traditional long-tail boat through colourful floating markets

• Majestic elephants at a soul-stirring sanctuary

• Bangkok’s ornate temples, sizzling street food & sky-high rooftops

• Famous train street with rapid shifting markets

• Iconic flower market & free time for Bangkok shopping

• Misty mountain temples of Chiang Mai

• Free time in Chiang Mai

• Phi Phi Island, ‘James Bond’ Island, ‘The Beach’ Island (optional)

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences…

DAY 1 Depart Australia and Arrive in Thailand

Today we enjoy the attentive service on our flight to Bangkok, Thailand. You will be personally met at Bangkok Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Bangkok hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this eclectic city.

Welcome to Thailand, where rich culture and breathtaking landscapes collide, from the glistening golden temples of Bangkok to the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Lush tropical jungles give way to sun kissed rice paddies, bustling markets overflow with the scent of exotic spices and the rhythm of daily life is set to the gentle hum of Buddhist chants. The lively capital of Bangkok is a city of exciting contrasts, where ancient traditions and modern energy intertwine in a vibrant symphony of sights, sounds and flavours. Towering golden temples stand alongside sleek skyscrapers, while lively markets spill into streets filled with the aroma of sizzling street food. The Chao Phraya River winds through the city’s heart, carrying long-tail boats past historic palaces and neon-lit nightlife. Whether in the peaceful courtyards of an ancient temple or the lively chaos of a thriving night market, Bangkok pulses with an inimitable energy – a new treasure hidden around every corner.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, overnight Bangkok hotel

DAY 2 Tour Bangkok

Today we immerse ourselves in the soul of Thailand as we set off to explore ancient temples, magnificent palaces, aromatic markets and a street-food adventure. We begin this morning with a visit to the breathtaking Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), a sacred sanctuary where the revered 66cm Emerald Buddha radiates spiritual and national significance. Draped in seasonal gold robes, ceremonially changed by the King himself, the Emerald Buddha is believed to safeguard the kingdom and bring prosperity to its people. The grandeur continues at nearby Grand Palace – a shimmering masterpiece that once housed Thai royalty – its gilded spires standing as a symbol of the nation’s prosperity. Our morning’s adventure culminates in a mesmerising visit to Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s most revered temples and home to the colossal Reclining Buddha, whose golden silhouette stretches a staggering 46 metres in peaceful repose. One of the oldest temples in Thailand and home to a renowned traditional Thai massage school, allow yourself to be immersed in a sense of deep-rooted tradition – its intricate murals and serene courtyards embodying Thailand’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage.

From the tranquillity of temples, we delve into the vibrant energy of Pak Klong Talat, Bangkok’s famous flower market. Here, the air is rich with the fragrance of fresh blooms, and the market hums with life as skilled hands showcase the delicate art of flower arranging. Next, we venture to Talad Noi, a hidden gem along the riverside, where old shophouses carry stories of the past, colourful murals bring walls to life, and the fusion of Chinese-Thai heritage creates a truly unique atmosphere. Soak up the charm of one of Bangkok’s oldest neighbourhoods, where every turn reveals a new layer of the city’s soul, in a kaleidoscope of nostalgia and modern creativity.

After some free time this afternoon, tonight we embark on a flavourful adventure through Bangkok’s lively Chinatown. As evening embraces the city, the streets begin to pulse with energy, lanterns glow overhead, and the scent of sautéed street-food delicacies fills the air. We begin our culinary adventure with a refreshing platter of tropical fruits, followed by smoky, succulent satay pork and Thailand’s beloved chicken Pad Thai, each bite a perfect balance of flavours. Finally, we complete our culinary journey with the most indulgent treat—mango sticky rice, rich with coconut and sweetness – an exquisite finale to our first full day in Bangkok.

Escorted coach tour, breakfast, dinner, overnight Bangkok hotel

DAY 3 Tour Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Mae Klong Railway Market

This morning we set off on a scenic drive towards the heart of nearby Ratchaburi Province, where an unforgettable experience awaits us – the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. One of Thailand's most iconic and vibrant markets, we find ourselves surrounded by a spectrum of colours as flowers, fruits, and spices pass between the hands of local traders. The air is rich with the scent of fresh flowers as skilled market vendors deftly weave delicate garlands—symbols of luck and blessings. With the soft murmur of the river and the hum of boat engines, we board a traditional long-tail boat, gliding through the maze of waterways, eager to taste the authentic local dishes and immerse ourselves in the rhythmic life of this intriguing market.

Next, we journey to the Mae Klong Railway Market, a spectacle that truly defies belief. Nestled directly on active railway tracks, this market is unlike any other. As a train approaches, just inches from the vibrant stalls, the entire scene shifts in an instant. Vendors spring into action, pulling back awnings and whisking away their goods in a perfectly timed, well-rehearsed dance that has been passed down through generations. This mesmerising ritual unfolds eight times a day, a captivating harmony of risk and rhythm. Between the rails, the narrow lanes come alive with glistening produce, handcrafted wares and the scent of sizzling street food curling through the air, all wrapped in the warm murmur of daily life.

Breakfast, coach tour, long-tail boat ride, overnight Bangkok hotel

DAY 4 Bangkok Flexi-Free Day (Optional Ayutthaya City Tour)

Today you can choose to explore more of Bangkok or take the optional guided tour to the breathtaking ancient city of Ayutthaya. Perhaps spend your day discovering Bangkok your own way, maybe embrace the city’s best shopping, head to ICONSIAM (high-end riverside shopping mall with an indoor floating market and cultural performances), climb the iconic Wat Arun (one of Bangkok’s most revered Buddhist temples with breathtaking river views) or unwind with a luxurious traditional Thai massage. Possibly take in more of the city's vibrant street food scene at Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, where steaming hot woks and fragrant spices fill the air, take a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River, sip cocktails at a rooftop bar with panoramic city views or explore the buzzing nightlife of Khao San Road or Thonglor. Alternatively, you could escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to Lumphini Park for a peaceful stroll or paddleboat ride or take the optional guided tour to ancient Ayutthaya city.

Ayutthaya City stands as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Thailand’s golden age, where ancient structures stand as monuments of a glorious past. The majestic cradle of ancient Siam, Ayutthaya was a thriving metropolis of wealth, culture and faith, where grand temples rose to the skies and stories of empires unfolded beneath golden spires. Today, crumbling temples and regal stupas still rise from the earth like solemn guardians of this once-thriving capital, their worn silhouettes bathed in golden light. The quiet stillness that lingers among the moss-covered stone and sacred Buddha images evokes a profound sense of reverence and awe – where time stands still and history resonates through every brick and tree root. Setting off this morning on this highly recommended optional tour, our first stop is the graceful Bang Pa-In Palace – the former summer residence of Thai royalty. Nestled among manicured gardens and serene ponds, its architecture tells a rich tale—where Thai elegance meets European grandeur and Chinese intricacy. We then glide across the Chao Phraya River on an exhilarating cable car ride to a tranquil monastery, where monks carry out their daily rituals in the quiet shadow of a church-like temple—an enchantingly unexpected fusion of East and West. Wat Yai Chaimongkol then awaits, a living sanctuary of faith that has stood since the 14th century. As we wander its peaceful grounds, the scent of incense lingers in the air and saffron robes drift softly through the courtyards. Perhaps climb the towering main chedi, and at the summit, take a breath as the sweeping views unfold—offering a quiet moment of awe above the ancient heart of Ayutthaya.

After savouring an authentic Thai lunch at a charming local restaurant, we hop aboard a traditional tuk-tuk and roll through the Ayutthaya Historical Park. At Wat Mahathat, we stand before the iconic Buddha head cradled by tree roots—a wonderous reminder of nature’s enduring embrace. The day closes at the majestic Wat Phra Si Sanphet, also known as the ‘Temple of the Holy’, where three grand chedis stand like silent sentinels of a once-glorious era, before returning to Bangkok for a free evening to soak up the electric charm of the capital.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Bangkok and its fascinating attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the (highly recommended) Full Day Ayutthaya City Tour with Lunch ($200). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Bangkok hotel

DAY 5 Bangkok to Chiang Mai

This morning our flight awaits to transport us to Chiang Mai, a blissfully tranquil tropical mountain town retreat. The cultural heart of northern Thailand—Chiang Mai is nestled in the misty mountains, a city where tradition and tranquillity live side by side. Ancient temples sparkle beneath the sun, their golden spires rising amid a patchwork of quiet lanes and vibrant markets. The scent of incense drifts through the air, mingling with the gentle clatter of street food stalls and the rhythm of daily life. There's a soulful calm here, a sense that time slows down just enough to let the beauty of every moment sink in.

We are welcomed by our local HolidayMax guide who leads us to the sacred Wat Doi Suthep. Perched high on a forested mountain, this revered temple seems to float above the clouds. As we ascend the grand staircase totalling over 300 steps and lined with shimmering naga serpent (or glide up by tram), the air grows still, and a sense of calm washes over us. At the summit, the golden chedi gleams under the sun, holding relics of the Buddha and radiating a deep, spiritual energy. From here, the panoramic view of Chiang Mai stretches endlessly, a breathtaking glimpse of the land we’re about to explore. We then journey down into the city and check into our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax, wander, or simply take in the peaceful rhythm of Chiang Mai at your own pace.

This evening, you could opt for the highly recommended optional street food adventure, hopping aboard a vibrant red songtaew—Chiang Mai’s beloved local transport—as we delve into the heart of the city’s electrifying street food scene. As twilight settles over the city, the streets come alive with flaming grills, fragrant spices and the hum of locals gathering for their evening meals. This is where Chiang Mai’s soul truly shines in a celebration of taste and tradition. We weave through lively markets and food stalls, sampling regional treasures like the rich and creamy Khao Soi, the smoky sweetness of Moo Ping skewers, the fiery crunch of Som Tum and the comforting warmth of Pad Thai. Sweet treats like golden Roti and delicate Khanom Krok round out our culinary journey – each bite revealing flavours and stories passed down through generations.

This afternoon you’ll have some time to explore Chiang Mai your own way or enjoy the optional Street Food and Night Market by Songtaew ($99). Make your choice while on tour.

Breakfast, flight Bangkok to Chiang Mai, overnight Chiang Mai hotel

DAY 6 Chiang Mai to Elephant Sanctuary to Chiang Mai

Today we experience the joy of seeing elephants up-close, playing in water, socialising and roaming freely. Discover the passion behind the Elephant Nature Park – one of Thailand’s most heartwarming experiences. A sanctuary nestled in a serene valley about an hour from Chiang Mai, the Elephant Nature Park was founded by the inspiring Lek Chailert in the 1990s, as a delightful refuge for elephants who have been rescued from a previous life of logging, performing and exploitative tourism. As we arrive, these gentle giants come into view—roaming freely through their natural habitat, bathing in the river and forming bonds with one another in peace and safety.

Form a real sense of connection with these graceful gentle giants in their natural environment. Enjoy quiet moments spent walking beside these majestic creatures, observing their intelligence, personalities, their healing and their joy. It’s not just a visit—it’s an awakening. The park is also home to a host of other rescued animals, from water buffalo to dogs and cats, all living in harmony under the watchful eyes of loving caretakers. Enjoy lunch in this remarkable setting.

Breakfast, lunch, entry Elephant Nature Park, overnight Chiang Mai hotel

DAY 7 Chiang Mai with Thai Cooking School

Today we embrace the heart of Chiang Mai’s culinary heritage as we dive into the rich and soulful world of cuisine with Thai Akha Kitchen—a local cooking school unlike any other. Many Thai people in the mountain region are descended from the Akha - their culture, steeped in harmony and deep respect for age and wisdom, finds beautiful expression through food - colourful, aromatic, and bursting with bold, authentic flavours.

Our culinary adventure begins at a lively local market to source our ingredients, where the air is thick with the scent of spices, herbs and bountiful street fare. Wandering through the stalls, we are drawn in by the vibrant colours and the hum of everyday life, as we taste fresh produce and gather the ingredients that will soon take centre stage in our cooking class. At Thai Akha Kitchen, guided by warm, passionate instructors, we delve into the secrets of Thai cooking. Together, we’ll craft appetisers, aromatic curries, savoury stir-fries, soothing soups, sweet desserts and traditional Akha dishes passed down through generations. Finally, we gather around the table to savour the fruits of our labour. With each bite, we deepen our connection to this unique culture, uncovering the rich flavours and stories woven into Thai cuisine.

Breakfast, cooking class, lunch, overnight Chiang Mai hotel

DAY 8 Chiang Mai to Phuket Luxury Beach Resort

This morning is yours to further explore Chiang Mai at your leisure. Maybe spend your time meandering through its ancient walled Old City, where centuries-old temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang invite quiet reflection or visit the bustling Warorot Market for local crafts, textiles and street food. You could indulge in a traditional Thai or Lanna-style massage or perhaps savour a bowl of Northern Thailand's iconic curry noodle soup at a local restaurant.

This afternoon our flight awaits to transport us to the tropical paradise of Phuket, and our grand luxury beach resort. Your upscale resort is fully featured and is the perfect haven to relax and experience the best of Phuket.

Phuket is an island jewel where turquoise seas meet golden shores under a sky that never seems to end. Its radiant beaches pulse with life during the day, while the soft, warm evenings invite a sense of calm and connection. The air hums with the scent of saltwater, tropical blooms and sensational street food, and every sunset transforms the sky into a canvas of colour. From lively markets to secluded coves, Phuket is something special. We are welcomed at the airport by our local HolidayMax guide who leads us to our beach resort, where you can enjoy a free evening at your leisure. Perhaps immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of nearby Patong Beach, where the night comes alive with dazzling lights, beach clubs and street markets, enjoy a sunset cruise along the coast or dine on fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant while watching the sky transform into a palette of fiery tropical hues.

Breakfast, flight Chiang Mai to Phuket, overnight Phuket Beach Resort

DAY 9 Luxury Beach Resort & Explore Phuket

Choose how you’d like to experience Phuket with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps just relax exploring the facilities of your grand luxury beach resort or find your own perfect spot on the renowned beaches with a cocktail in hand. You could while away the day wandering though the charming streets of Old Phuket Town exploring its colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture or vibrant markets and art galleries.

Alternatively, you could take one of four highly recommended optional excursions like ‘James Bond’ Island, ‘The Beach’ Island and Phi Phi Island.

Perhaps embark on a high-speed boat journey to the stunning Phi Phi Islands, to explore iconic beaches, crystal-clear waters and secluded lagoons, beginning with a visit to the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. Bask in the beauty of this pristine natural wonder before continuing to Pileh Cove, also known as the Blue Lagoon and take a scenic cruise past Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. After a delicious Thai buffet lunch, bask in the sun or take a dip at Phi Phi Don's peaceful shores and delight in the magic of Bamboo Island for an afternoon of relaxation.

Maybe choose the James Bond Island tour offering an exciting exploration of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone formations and hidden sea caves by canoe. Glide through these awe-inspiring caves with a local guide, revealing the untouched beauty of the bay. Visit Panyi Village, a floating community, indulge in a tasty lunch and then discover the world-famous James Bond Island, where you can revel in the iconic landscapes, before heading to Yao Yai Island for a charming beach escape.

Another option is an immersive walking tour of Phuket’s historic Old Town, where the fusion of European and Chinese influences comes alive as we wander through vibrant streets lined with colourful Sino-Portuguese houses, local art and food stalls. Visit the Thai Hua Museum to learn about the Hokkien Chinese community's history in Phuket and explore the Chinpracha House, a beautifully preserved mansion showcasing antiques and traditional Chinese-European designs. This journey through time offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's multicultural past, culminating in a delightful Thai lunch.

Finally, you could opt for a visit to the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, for a unique experience in local craftsmanship. Nestled amidst Phuket’s lush landscapes, we learn about the distillation process of rum, gin and vodka using traditional French techniques, and see how each bottle is hand-crafted for authenticity. Enjoy a guided tasting of the distillery’s finest spirits, followed by a refreshing rum mojito. We conclude our visit with a delicious lunch set in the distillery’s beautiful grounds, allowing us to savour fresh, locally sourced dishes such as prawn spring rolls and Massaman curry.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Phuket and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the highly recommended Phi Phi Island and Bamboo Island by Speed Boat ($155), James Bond Island and Canoeing by Speed Boat ($155), Phuket Old Town Walking Tour with Thai Hua Museum and Chinpracha House Museum ($145) or the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Tour, Tasting and Lunch ($174). Make your choice while on tour.

Breakfast, overnight Phuket Beach Resort

DAY 10 Luxury Beach Resort & Explore Phuket

Today we wake to another free flexi-day day in dazzling Phuket. Perhaps select another of the 4 exciting optional excursions on offer or simply spend the day exploring Phuket’s tropical paradise at your own pace. You could soak up the vibrant energy of Patong Beach, where golden sands meet turquoise waves and beachside cafes buzz with life, ascend to the towering Big Buddha, where staggering panoramic views and the hush of incense-filled air offer a peaceful retreat or wander the historic streets of Old Phuket Town visiting art galleries, markets and charming cafés. Maybe set out on a breathtaking boat ride through the emerald waters surrounding the island, visit Wat Chalong – one of the island’s most sacred Buddhist temples or see tigers or elephants at a local Wildlife Sanctuary.

Perhaps hike the scenic trails of Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary to the tranquil Tonsai Waterfall or kick back and sink into the soft sands of Kata, Surin or Karon Beaches for some sun-drenched relaxation. You could join a Thai cooking class, mastering the delicate balance of local flavours, wander the colourful aisles of the Banzaan Fresh Market immersing yourself in the daily life of the island, or marvel at the aquatic wonders of the Phuket Aquarium. You could head to Phuket FantaSea for a truly immersive cultural experience, where dazzling performances bring Thai legends to life with music, dance and theatrical flair. Or as the sun dips below the horizon, make your way to Promthep Cape for a truly enchanting sunset, then let the neon lights of Bangla Road lead you into an electrifying evening of live shows, music, and nightlife – rounding off a perfect day in this tropical paradise.

Breakfast, overnight Phuket Beach Resort

DAY 11 Say goodbye to Thailand

Time to say farewell to your fellow travellers and friendly resort hosts as your magical tour through intoxicating Thailand draws to an end.

Enjoy free time this morning to explore more of Phuket at your own pace before being personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to Phuket airport.

Enjoy the attentive service on your flight home.

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer

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Thailand Discovery Small-Group Tour

11 Day Touring Package

Limited Availability at these prices. Deal ends soon. Questions? Call 1300 887 469 or Click to Ask Us

$ 2549 *

Typically $3594

* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have travel requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing, airline or dates (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, ' see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp650