After breakfast, your adventure begins with a visit to two of Thailand’s most unique markets. At the Maeklong Railway Market, watch as vendors swiftly retract their awnings and move their produce just moments before a train passes through the centre of the market — an unforgettable sight that captures the rhythm of local life. Continue to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, gliding by long-tail speedboat past riverside villages and fruit orchards before arriving at the bustling network of canals, alive with colour and fragrance. You’ll also step inside a local villager’s home to see the traditional craft of producing organic palm sugar, a process handed down through generations.
In the afternoon, travel west to Kanchanaburi. A scenic long-tail boat ride along the River Kwai delivers you to your unique accommodation for the next two nights: a private floating villa at The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at the resort’s riverside Sanctuary Restaurant, surrounded by jungle-clad banks and the gentle flow of the river.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market visit
The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort floating villa stay
This morning begins with a visit to Hellfire Pass and its memorial museum, a moving tribute to the prisoners of war and labourers who lost their lives during the construction of the Thai–Burma railway. Continue to the Bridge on the River Kwai, where you’ll board a short historic train journey along one of the line’s most scenic stretches, with sweeping views over the Khwae Noi River.
After lunch at a local restaurant, spend the afternoon in Erawan National Park, home to one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls. Wander the jungle trails and cool off in the emerald pools of the seven-tiered Erawan Falls before returning to your floating villa to relax by the river at dusk. Dinner is included this evening at the resort.
The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort floating villa stay
This morning begins with a visit to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, a solemn place to pay respects to those who lost their lives during wartime. Continue to the Bridge on the River Kwai, pausing for a photo at this historic landmark before travelling onwards to Ayutthaya.
Arrive in time for lunch at a local favourite restaurant before exploring some of the city’s most captivating temples. Admire the gold-embellished statues of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, then visit Wat Phanan Choeng with its spectacular seated Buddha. Conclude the afternoon at the evocative ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat, where the famous stone Buddha head entwined in banyan roots stands as a symbol of the city’s past. Later, check into your hotel for the evening.
Travel north this morning, beginning with a visit to Wat Tha Sung, a dazzling temple famed for its mirrored walls and glittering glass pillars. Continue to a local pier in Uthai Thani, where you’ll board a traditional rice barge for a leisurely cruise along the Sakae Krang River. As you drift past stilted houses and lush scenery, enjoy a traditional lunch on board.
In the afternoon, journey onwards to Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand and a UNESCO World Heritage–listed city. On arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind with a rejuvenating traditional Thai massage or foot massage, included as part of your stay.
This morning begins with a guided exploration of Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Thailand. Cycle or stroll through the park’s tranquil gardens and lotus-fringed lakes, admiring the ancient temples and statues that reveal the city’s rich history.
Pause for a home-style picnic lunch before returning to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax, or you may choose to join an optional amulet-making workshop, learning the traditional techniques behind these unique Buddhist votive tablets.
This morning begins with a drive north to Chiang Mai, a city of temples, mountains, and vibrant street life. En route, stop at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Admire the intricate golden chedi and enjoy sweeping views before continuing to your hotel.
Settle in this afternoon and take some time to relax. In the evening, rejoin your group for a local dining experience, sampling some of Chiang Mai’s best flavours in a lively setting.
Today is a day of hands-on cultural immersion. After breakfast, travel to a sustainable village in the San Kamphaeng district, where local artisans share their crafts. Discover the basics of bamboo and cotton weaving, pottery, and natural tie-dye, and even try your hand at creating your own design under their guidance.
Before lunch, continue to Wat Phan Tao, a 600-year-old teakwood temple built in the Chiang Saen style. After an included lunch at a local restaurant, the focus shifts to cuisine with an interactive cooking class at Baan Hongnual. Begin with a stroll through the herb and vegetable gardens before learning the secrets of Thai cooking from experienced local chefs. Round off the evening by enjoying the fragrant dishes you’ve prepared for dinner.
Local Thai cooking class
Today is dedicated to a truly memorable experience: a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary that cares for rescued and orphaned animals. Spend the morning learning about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and walking alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. With a strict no-riding policy in place, you’ll observe the elephants as they play, forage, and interact freely. Lunch is included at the sanctuary.
Return to your hotel this afternoon for some time at leisure. In the evening, you may choose to join an optional Vespa tour after dark. This guided experience takes you through Chiang Mai’s lively streets, from food markets and tucked-away eateries to local bars with live music — a unique way to discover the city’s night-time energy.
After breakfast, journey north to Chiang Rai, a region known for its striking temples and mountain landscapes. On arrival, visit two of the city’s most celebrated landmarks: the gleaming White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), rebuilt in dazzling contemporary style, and the vibrant Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), with its cobalt hues and intricate carvings.
Following your visits, continue to your hotel and settle in for a relaxing evening.
This morning, make your way to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge along the Mekong River. Board a boat for a scenic cruise through this historic region, once at the heart of the opium trade.
Afterwards, deepen your understanding with a visit to the Hall of Opium Museum, which explores the history and impact of the trade on local communities. Return to your hotel in the afternoon to relax at leisure.
This evening, gather for a farewell dinner at Sala Rim Nam Restaurant, overlooking the river. Toast the end of your journey with two hours of free-flow drinks as you share memories of your adventure.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) for your onward flight. Your journey through Thailand concludes here.