A 5-Day Itinerary of Southern Thailand from Phuket
Beaches, Culture, and Food
If you're trying to plan an amazing trip through Southern Thailand, but are not sure where to start things off, where to go, or how much money you'll need, then this itinerary is for you. This trip will let you take in all of the beaches, nightlife, snorkeling and scuba diving, and beautiful locations along the way. Consider this your go-to guide, giving you all the details to schedule an epic five-day adventure through the region.
The reasons to visit Southern Thailand are plentiful. You'll find exotic beaches, delicious food, active nightlife, historical sights, and vibrant culture. Below we'll start with some of the highlights of the area before working through the specifics of the route, budget, things to do, where to stay, and more.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Phuket (3 days)
- Koh Phi Phi (2 days)
Thai Tuk Tuk
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Beaches
- Delicious Food
- Beautiful Locations
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
- Nightlife
Prepare to be captivated by the region's breathtaking beaches. You really can't miss spending some time indulging in the soothing waters for a fun and relaxing experience. Don't let the opportunity slip away – the beaches around Koh Phi Phi and Phuket are something you shouldn't miss.
Delicious food is one of the main reasons why many people travel, and a trip to Southern Thailand is no exception. You'll find so many amazing restaurants and local dishes worth tasting on this trip, so throw that diet plan away when you come.
The stunning scenery of Southern Thailand is one of the main reasons visitors come to this region. Bring your camera, as it's even better in person. You don't want to miss Koh Phi Phi for the beautiful scenery.
When you're in Southern Thailand, scuba diving and snorkeling are absolute musts. The waters are renowned for their clear visibility and rich marine life. Be sure to allocate some time to head out into the water for this incredible experience. Specifically, the diving experiences you can have around Phuket and Koh Phi Phi are truly terrific.
Southern Thailand has plenty of hot nightlife spots that are worth visiting. The nightlife in Koh Phi Phi and Phuket is especially festive.
Phuket Beaches
When is the best time to visit?
If you're looking to escape the cold weather for a warmer destination, then Southern Thailand is for you. It's a popular getaway with travelers not just because of the great weather, but also for the many activities and attractions. It can get quite popular in the winter, so plan ahead.
Who is this itinerary for?
Southern Thailand has earned a reputation as a go-to spot for couples. If you're traveling with your better half, brace yourselves for an exceptional experience. Down below, you'll find plenty of insight around romantic activities for your trip. For romantic charm, Phuket and Koh Phi Phi especially should not be missed.
Southern Thailand makes for a terrific family-friendly trip. You'll find a good number of kid-friendly activities on this journey. In the sections below, we'll cover this in more detail so that the entire family has an amazing trip.
Plenty of budget-friendly and backpacker-friendly travel options are available in the area, too. From affordable hostels and budget-friendly hotels, to free activities, affordable food options, and a great social vibe, you can have a great trip if you're on a shoestring budget. For example, the range of hostels and low-cost activities in Koh Phi Phi tend to favor budget travelers.
Longtail boats around Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Transportation
Getting around between these destinations in Southern Thailand isn't too difficult. Most of these places are around 4 hours apart.
We selected Phuket as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Phuket, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
Ferry boats are a common way to get from place to place in Southern Thailand, so you'll want to make sure to look into tickets and prices before you begin your journey. After all, the views from the water are often spectacular and the trips can be quite fun, too.
Is five days enough time in Southern Thailand?
Yes, five days is generally enough time to see the major destinations of Southern Thailand. We have planned out this itinerary in such a way so that you can take in these destinations in five days while having a relaxing and enjoyable trip. You could always spend more time in the area if you want to visit more of the local sights, or spend even more time in each destination. Plenty of day trip options are available, after all. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can modify this suggested itinerary to make it shorter. Cutting out a few places would save you time, although we don't recommended it as you really need around five days to see everything.
Phuket Elephant Sancturary
How much does a five-day trip to Southern Thailand cost?
Below is a budget breakdown for this exciting five-day journey across Southern Thailand. Our cost estimates are based on the average daily expenses of real travelers, coupled with data from major companies. Keep in mind, these costs are per person and exclude transportation between destinations. Consider this a helpful guide, because opting for mid-level hotels, regular dining, and covering main attractions will keep you on par with these averages. For those on a tighter budget, hostels and budget hotels, along with more affordable dining options, can keep you below these estimates. Conversely, indulging in luxury accommodations, upscale dining, and private tours might push you well above this budget.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phuket | $105 | 3 | $314 |
| Koh Phi Phi | $72 | 2 | $143 |
| Total per person | $458 | ||
| for 2 People | $915 | ||
The anticipated expenses for this five-day journey in Southern Thailand tallies up to $458 per person. Keep in mind that this figure excludes the cost of moving between destinations, as that will depend on the transportation option you use.
Accommodation Costs
Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Southern Thailand based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Calculated from Kayak's hotel data, please note that taxes and fees are not factored into these figures. Consider these prices as a gauge for mid-range hotel experiences. Yet, keep in mind that it's easy to spend more or less, especially if you opt for budget-friendly stays or treat yourself to high-end luxury hotels. During peak travel season, these prices will also be higher.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phuket | $44 | 3 | $132 |
| Koh Phi Phi | $33 | 2 | $66 |
| Total expected hotel cost* | $198 | ||
Hostel Prices
Seeking to stretch your travel dollars? Hostels are a fantastic option, especially for younger or solo travelers. The prices outlined below represent the average cost for a dorm bed in a hostel at each location. While privacy may be a bit limited in hostel dorms, the ambiance is usually social, creating a wonderful opportunity to form new friendships. Keep in mind that many hostels also offer private rooms, but at a higher cost compared to dorms. Moreover, you can benefit from amenities such as communal kitchens, social activities, and convenient locations. These average prices are computed using available hostel data from HostelWorld.
| City | Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person) | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phuket | $12 | 3 days | $35 |
| Koh Phi Phi | $12 | 2 days | $23 |
| Total expected hostel cost* | $58 | ||
Southern Thailand Itinerary
1. Phuket
3 Days
Phuket is one of the most famous islands in Thailand. It's popular with tourists who come to party, swim, and experience the sights and culture. The capital of the island is Phuket City, but most visitors stay at one of the many resorts by the beaches around the island.
Phuket offers beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, and nightlife. It's also a great place for couples and families due to all of the activities.
This is one of the most popular destinations in the world for nightlife. It's considered by many to be a fun party-oriented resort island, and is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once to experience.
Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.
You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.
What to See in Phuket
How to Spend 3 Days in Phuket
Day 1:
The beautiful beaches await you in Phuket, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.
The public transit in Phuket is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the resort island quite easily and affordably. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.
Day 2:
Don't miss the Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha) during your trip to Phuket, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."
Day 3:
Scuba diving and snorkeling around Phuket is very popular. Spend the day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.
Phuket is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.
Day Trips from Phuket
Several terrific day trip options are available from Phuket to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.
- Phang Nga Bay kayaking day trip ($128)
- Exclusive Small Group Phi Phi Islands Sunrise or Day Trip ($108)
- Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V.Marine ($78)
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Phuket. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island Tours from Phuket, The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Phuket, The Best ATV Tours in Phuket, and The Best Snorkeling Tours in Phuket.
Phuket Costs
Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Phuket hovers around a reasonable $105 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Phuket here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $4 | $11 | $31 |
| Food2 | $8 | $22 | $56 |
| Entertainment1 | $16 | $42 | $113 |
| Alcohol2 | $2 | $6 | $19 |
Accommodation
Hotels
Hotels in Phuket have an average price of $44 based on the average from 1002 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Phuket here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Phuket, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $12. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Phuket here.
Transportation
Taking a ferry from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi is a fun, fast, and economical way to travel. Prices often vary by date and company, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here.
2. Koh Phi Phi
2 Days
Koh Phi Phi is actually made up of six islands, but Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island. This island is popular with day trippers, but it's also a fun and beautiful island to visit independently. The snorkeling and diving is world class. There's a popular backpacker area around Tonsai, but there's also a quieter, resort-filled area to the north. In addition to stunning natural beauty, visitors enjoy snorkeling and dive trips, rock climbing, and hiking.
Koh Phi Phi offers beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking, nightlife, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for couples and backpackers due to all of the activities.
Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Koh Phi Phi are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.
You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.
What to See in Koh Phi Phi
How to Spend 2 Days in Koh Phi Phi
Day 1:
When visiting Koh Phi Phi, you can't miss Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it.
Koh Phi Phi is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.
Public transit in Koh Phi Phi is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the island quite easily. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.
Day 2:
Scuba diving and snorkeling around Koh Phi Phi is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.
This island is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.
Day Trips from Koh Phi Phi
Several terrific day trip options are available from Koh Phi Phi to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Koh Phi Phi. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Maya Bay Tours in Koh Phi Phi, The Best Longtail Boat Tours Around Koh Phi Phi, The Best Ferry Services to and from Koh Phi Phi, and The Best Snorkeling Tours in Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Phi Phi Costs
Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Koh Phi Phi hovers around a reasonable $72 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Koh Phi Phi here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $3 | $7 | $14 |
| Food2 | $5 | $11 | $22 |
| Entertainment1 | $16 | $45 | $138 |
| Alcohol2 | $2 | $6 | $12 |
Accommodation
Hotels
Hotels in Koh Phi Phi have an average price of $33 based on the average from 81 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Koh Phi Phi here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Koh Phi Phi, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $12. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Koh Phi Phi here.
Final Transportation
As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Phuket.
Taking a ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket is a fun, fast, and economical way to travel. Prices often vary by date and company, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your five-day trip in Southern Thailand, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!
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