Planning a trip to Southern Thailand? You’ve come to the right place! Here’s a complete guide to make sure you don’t miss out on the must-see spots, paradise destinations, and delicious local dishes.
This customized itinerary will help you discover the best of Southern Thailand. Plus, we’ll share some practical tips to help you organize your trip seamlessly.
Week 1: Exploring islands and paradise beaches
Must-visit destinations
Phuket
Your first essential stop is Phuket, Thailand’s largest island located in the southwest. Famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts, it attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Take the time to explore the Old Town and visit Wat Chalong Temple, one of the most beautiful and important temples in the region. Don’t miss the Big Buddha of Phuket for a panoramic view of the area. Stay updated as the site may close temporarily due to rockslides.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a small archipelago, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes featuring limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters. It’s best known for Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. It’s a prime destination for diving, snorkeling, and beachfront parties.
Phang Nga Bay
Nicknamed “James Bond Island,” this archipelago appeared in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) starring Roger Moore. Its iconic rock formation, Khao Phing Kan, served as a backdrop for a key scene.
Must-Try Dishes
In Phuket, you’ll have the opportunity to taste local specialties at traditional restaurants. Here are three dishes you must try:
- Tom Yum Goong – a spicy shrimp soup
- Seafood Pad Thai – a staple of local markets
- Khanom Jeen – rice noodles served with curry
At Koh Phi Phi, don’t miss out on grilled fish served right on the beach. In Phang Nga, indulge in tamarind seafood, offered in the iconic stilt restaurants.
Week 2: Nature, culture, and the deep South’s flavors
Must-visit destinations
Krabi
Start your second week by visiting Krabi, a province on Thailand’s west coast, famous for its coastal scenery, white-sand beaches, and limestone cliffs (especially Railay Beach). Adventure seekers can climb the 1,200 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua).
Koh Lanta
No trip to Southern Thailand is complete without visiting Koh Lanta, the island popularized by the TV show Survivor. Situated in the Andaman Sea, about 70 km from Krabi, it’s part of the Mu Ko Lanta National Park and is known for its peaceful beaches, preserved landscapes, and relaxing vibe.
Khao Sok National Park
Located in the Surat Thani province, between Krabi and Phuket, Khao Sok is one of the oldest and best-preserved national parks in Thailand. It’s famous for its dense jungle and limestone mountains. Book a boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake to get a closer view of the stunning landscapes.
What to Eat in Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Khao Sok ?
In Krabi, try these authentic Thai dishes and desserts:
- Gaeng Som Pla – a sweet and sour fish curry, available at street stalls
- Grilled seafood – served at the Krabi Town night market
- Roti – sweet pancakes served with banana and condensed milk
On Koh Lanta, don’t miss the local specialty: crab curry. And in Khao Sok, you’ll find Thailand’s best tropical fruits—an excellent chance to try fresh durian and rambutan.
Practical tips for visiting Southern Thailand
When to visit Southern Thailand ?
The best time to visit Southern Thailand is between November and April, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and pleasant—perfect for beach days and water activities.
During this period, temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C, and the sea is calm, making it safe for children to swim.
Avoid the rainy season from May to October, marked by frequent downpours and less favorable maritime conditions. For an optimal experience, plan your trip between December and February, although this is also peak tourist season.
Getting Around Southern Thailand
You can travel around Southern Thailand by ferry to reach islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, or use longtail boats for shorter crossings. On the mainland, buses and minivans are affordable for intercity travel.
Renting a scooter is a popular way to explore locally, especially in Phuket and Krabi, but be cautious as driving rules differ from those in Europe.
Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available in tourist areas. For longer or urgent trips, domestic flights connect major cities like Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani.
To better plan your travels, check out the essential apps for a trip to Thailand.
Booking your trip to Southern Thailand
For booking your trip to Southern Thailand, trust Trazler. Our all-in-one travel platform allows you to book your flight, hotel, and airport transfers in just a few clicks.
Trazler’s partners offer the best rates for flights and accommodations. Mix and match options to create a tailor-made trip that meets your expectations and fits your budget.
If you need assistance, our support service is available 24/7, every day of the week.Now you know where to go in Southern Thailand for an unforgettable vacation. Need more inspiration? Check out our blog for travelers, packed with tips, itineraries, and advice for organizing your trips.
The best time to visit Southern Thailand is from November to April, during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities and water sports.
You can travel between the islands using ferries or long-tail boats. On the mainland, buses, minivans, scooters, and tuk-tuks are convenient options for getting around.
The main attractions of Koh Phi Phi include Maya Bay, Long Beach, and activities such as snorkeling and boat tours around the surrounding islands.