It all began with a post-army trip to Thailand - and since then, it became a way of life. I split my time between Israel and Bangkok, constantly exploring, researching, and deeply understanding the culture, people, beaches, the north, and the major cities. Over the years, I have created hundreds of customized itineraries, guided travelers from Israel and around the world, and written practical travel guides for smart and meaningful trips in Thailand. I’ll be happy to share my knowledge and make your trip accurate, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
Southern Thailand
Southern Thailand is a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture. From the bustling cities to the serene islands, this region offers a diverse array of attractions and activities to suit every traveler’s preferences. In this expert guide, we’ll delve into the must-visit cities, top attractions, best times to visit, dining options, transportation tips, and a suggested three-week itinerary to make the most of your trip.
Large Cities in Southern Thailand
- Phuket: Known as Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is a melting pot of cultures, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. Explore the vibrant streets of Phuket Town, visit iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha, and indulge in the lively nightlife of Patong Beach.
- Krabi: With its breathtaking limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, Krabi is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Discover hidden lagoons, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and unwind on the idyllic beaches of Ao Nang and Railay.
- Koh Samui: This picturesque island boasts pristine beaches, lush coconut groves, and luxurious resorts. Relax on the white sands of Chaweng Beach, explore cultural landmarks like the Big Buddha Temple, and embark on island-hopping excursions to nearby gems like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
Best Attractions in Southern Thailand
- National Parks: Khao Sok National Park, with its ancient rainforests and emerald-green lakes, offers opportunities for jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and overnight stays in floating bungalows. Meanwhile, Ang Thong Marine National Park boasts stunning limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and vibrant coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
- Beaches: From the world-renowned shores of Maya Bay in the Phi Phi Islands to the secluded stretches of sand on Koh Lipe, Southern Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s a beach for everyone, including popular spots like Patong Beach, Railay Beach, and Sairee Beach.
- Cultural Landmarks: Explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and historical sites that offer insights into Southern Thailand’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the ornate Wat Chalong in Phuket, the iconic Big Buddha statue in Koh Samui, and the colorful night markets of Krabi Town.
Attractions for Children
- Splash Jungle Water Park: Located in Phuket, this family-friendly water park features thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones suitable for all ages.
- Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo: Kids can marvel at exotic marine life and get up close with majestic tigers at this popular attraction in Koh Samui.
- Dinosaur Mini Golf: Located in Krabi, this unique mini-golf course offers a fun-filled day out for families, complete with life-size dinosaur replicas and challenging holes.
Best Time to Visit Southern Thailand
The best time to visit Southern Thailand is during the dry season, which typically lasts from November to April. This period offers sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and crowds, especially during the peak tourist season from December to February.
Where to Eat
Southern Thailand boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with an abundance of street food stalls, seafood restaurants, and fine dining establishments to choose from. Sample traditional Thai dishes like pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup at local eateries, or indulge in fresh seafood BBQ on the beach. Don’t miss the chance to try regional specialties like southern-style curry with rice noodles or grilled fish with spicy dipping sauce.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
Transportation
Getting around Southern Thailand is relatively easy, with options ranging from public buses and ferries to taxis and motorbike rentals. For intercity travel, consider booking long-distance buses or flights, while ferries and speedboats are ideal for island hopping. Renting a scooter is a popular choice for exploring local attractions and scenic routes, but be sure to wear a helmet and drive safely.
Three-Week Itinerary
Day 1-3: Explore Phuket’s Old Town, visit the Big Buddha, and enjoy nightlife in Patong Beach.
Day 4-5: Discover the Phi Phi Islands, including Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
Day 6-9: Immerse yourself in Krabi’s natural beauty, from hiking Dragon’s Crest Trail to island hopping in the Four Islands.
Day 10-12: Relax on the beaches of Koh Samui, visit cultural landmarks, and take a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for ThailandDay 13-15: Experience the laid-back vibe of Koh Phangan, explore secluded beaches, and attend a full moon party.
Day 16-18: Dive into adventure on Koh Tao, snorkel with marine life, and hike to scenic viewpoints.
Day 19-21: Conclude your journey with a tranquil retreat in Khao Sok National Park, where you can explore the jungle, cruise on the lake, and marvel at waterfalls.
Tips for Tourists
- Pack Light: Southern Thailand’s tropical climate calls for lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- Respect Local Customs: Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples and sacred sites, and remove your shoes before entering.
- Stay Hydrated: With high temperatures and humidity, it’s important to stay hydrated throughout your trip. Carry a bottle of water with you and drink plenty of fluids.
- Bargain Wisely: When shopping at markets or negotiating prices for tours and transportation, remember to bargain respectfully and be prepared to walk away if the price isn’t right.
By following this expert guide, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable journey through Southern Thailand, immersing yourself in its natural wonders, cultural delights, and tropical paradise.
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
Customer Experience Manager
Service cost: from only $420. (Special price for short itineraries up to 5 days). Clients tell us the itinerary saves them costly mistakes, fines, wrong choices – plus exclusive discounts on car rentals, better-priced accommodations, and money-saving local tips.
Latest articles
Kaprun Dam (Hochgebirgsstauseen)
Kaprun Dam (Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen) is a high-altitude reservoir complex set […]
