9 Day Exploring Bangkok's Vibrant Culture and Cuisine

DAY 1, Depart for Thailand
Depart for Thailand

DAY 2, Arrive in Bangkok
Arrive in exotic Bangkok, Thailand's capital city, and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure
Overnight: Bangkok

DAY 3, Bangkok City Tour
This morning, take a city tour that introduces you to Bangkok, known as the City of Angels. Drive through Indian Market with hundreds of market stalls, street-side restaurants, and gold shops. On to colorful "Little India" with its bright hanging walls of glistening fabrics and the fragrant wholesale Flower Market. Visit serene Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the oldest and largest temple in the city. Marvel at the 150-foot-long statue of the giant reclining Buddha, covered in gold leaf. Drive along Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices are located and the King's Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure before tonight's orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 5 PM, followed by a reception
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Explore Ayutthaya
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand with an excursion to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Upon arrival, begin at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that encompasses the ruins of the ancient city. Explore the park and marvel at the impressive remains of palaces, temples, and statues that stand as a testament to the city's former glory. Visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a summer residence for the Thai kings. The palace complex features a mix of architectural styles including Thai, Chinese, and European influences. Continue to the Chai Wattanaram Temple, built by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother. This temple was conceived as a replica of the Angkor Temple. Wander around the monumental grounds and admire its compelling architectural style
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Full Day in Bangkok or Optional Full Day Pattaya Tour with Lunch
Today is free to explore Bangkok at your own pace. Perhaps, join the optional Full Day Pattaya Tour with lunch. Begin the day with a drive to Pattaya, a seaside resort on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, with its beautiful beaches and sparkling azure waters. Upon arrival, head to Pratumnak Hill Viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views of the city, and the crescent-shaped coastline. Next, visit the Sanctuary of the Truth, an awe-inspiring wooden temple, constructed entirely of teak wood without the use of any metal nails. This architectural marvel features intricate carvings that depict themes from Buddhist and Hindu mythology. Savor a variety of Thai dishes and fresh seafood for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, stop at Khao Chi Chan, also known as Buddha Mountain, where a giant Buddha image is etched into the side of the limestone hill. This impressive laser-carved image is covered in gold leaf and serves as a symbol of peace and serenity. Late afternoon arrival at the hotel
Optional: Full Day Pattaya Tour with lunch
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace, Optional Bangkok Canal Tour with Dinner
Your day of exploration begins with a tour of Wat Phra Kaew, known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace. Together they form the most impressive sights for visitors to Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew consists of over 100 brightly colored buildings, golden spires and glittering mosaics, dating back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. From Wat Phra Kaew continue to the Grand Palace. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the Thai-inspired Wat Phra Kaew and the European design of the Grand Palace. The palace is used now only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence. In the afternoon, embark on the optional canal tour along the Chao Phraya River passing by Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, and other iconic landmarks. Take in scenic views of both banks of the river as you glide through the water and observe the simple life of the locals living along the river. Later, travel on a tuk-tuk to dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel
Optional: Bangkok Canal Tour with Dinner
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Full Day in Bangkok or Optional Full Day Khao Yai National Park with Lunch
Spend the day at leisure or choose the optional Full Day Khao Yai National Park with lunch. Depart Bangkok in early morning and travel to Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Embark on a hike along the Nong Pak Chee Trail, admiring the local flora and fauna. The observation tower along the trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. After the hike, head to the Baan Ta Chang natural spring, a hidden gem within the park. This is the perfect spot for a refreshing swim in the clear cool waters and the ideal place to unwind. Savor Thai dishes for lunch at a local restaurant before heading back. Arrive in Bangkok late afternoon
Optional: Full Day Khao Yai National Park with lunch
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Full Day in Bangkok or Optional Full Day Damnoen Saduak Floating Market with Lunch
On your last day at leisure in Bangkok, join the optional Full Day Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Travel southwest this morning to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Observe how the ancient trading of wares is conducted between hundreds of local farmers and villagers aboard small sampan boats. The boats are fully loaded with all kinds of products including fruits, vegetables, dry goods, and freshly cooked food. Have lunch before returning to Bangkok. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Optional: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market with lunch
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Depart Thailand
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight