Best of Thailand (4 Star Hotels)

Best of Thailand (4 Star Hotels)

2,734 Views
9 Days From

$2121

$1061

Best of Thailand (4 Star Hotels)

9 Days Starting and ending in Bangkok

Visiting: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Phitsanulok, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Elephant EcoValley

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

THL9

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

18-70

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $2121 $1061 Operator discount: -$1061 -50%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Discover the best highlights of central and north Thailand from bustling Bangkok to scenic landscapes of Northern Thailand.

Explore Bangkok’s chaotic night markets, street food vendors, and rooftop bars.

Visit the infamous Death Railway and Bridge on the beautiful River Kwai.

Explore Thailand’s archaeological gems including the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

Embrace the natural beauty of Northern Thailand in Chiang Mai and Chaing Rai, and watch the local elephants in their habitat.

This 9-day adventure travels on and off the well-worn path to discover unique cultures, landscapes, and landmarks untouched by tourist crowds.

Highlights

  • Stay in carefully selected 4- & 3-star accommodation with airport transfers and daily breakfasts included in the tour package.

  • Get to know each city like a local on guided walking tours in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Chiang Rai.

  • Embrace your inner zen with authentic Thai experiences such as an included Thai Massage and horse-drawn carriage experiences.

  • Prepare to be mesmerised as you feed and bathe elephants at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Furama Xclusive Sathorn – 4 Star

Welcome to Thailand! Freshen up and meet in the hotel lobby around 6:00pm for an informal meeting with your guide and other tour members.

Afterwards you have free time to start exploring vibrant Bangkok or go out for an optional group dinner.

Take a stroll down the iconic Khao San Road and explore the bustling night markets, live music bars and restaurants as you wish.





Accommodation

Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium or Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point– 4 Star

Optional Activities

Group Dinner

Day 2: Bangkok City Tour

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Furama Xclusive Sathorn – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fill up on an included breakfast at the hotel before a full day exploring Bangkok on an included City Tour.

Follow your local guide through the chaotic streets and quaint back alleys of Bangkok and visit the city's two unmissable highlights.

Wander through China Town to the banks of the Chao Phraya River and visit Wat Pho to see the famous 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf! Continue to the Grand Palace just nearby, the perfect example of an ancient Siamese court, to witness the magical atmosphere.

You may get a chance to visit the Temple of Emerald Buddha, located within the palace compound.

There is a strict dress code at the Grand Palace so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees with loose-fitting such as long pants and shirts.

Travel on the Chao Phraya River (The River of Kings) and on through the Klongs (canals) of Thonburi.

You will have the chance to observe and photograph the serene family homes and temples along the waterways, which gave the city the name “Venice of the East”.

You will also pay a visit to one of the most photographed sights in Bangkok, the Wat Arun.

The majestic shrine has a pagoda as high as 76m and is decorated with glazed ceramic pieces that reflect the rising sun, giving the temple its name.

After a big day exploring Bangkok, head back to the hotel to enjoy the afternoon at your own leisure.





Accommodation

Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium or Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point– 4 Star

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Bangkok City Tour

Entrance Fees

Wat Pho - 9 USD

Wat Pra Kaew & Grand Palace - 14 USD

Wat Arun - 6 USD

Day 3: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi

Location: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Felix River Kwai Resort – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart Bangkok on an air-conditioned coach by early in the morning as we make our way to Kanchanaburi.

Famously known for the bridge over the Kwai River, it is a significant scene of World War II and Thailand's somber war history.

Start discovring the area with a visit to the War Cemetery and the War Museum, dedicated to the prisoners who lost their lives during the construction of the bridge.

Hop on a boat trip on River Kwai towards the famous bridge, where you can cross it on foot and take walk around the site.

Our next stop will be the unusual railway section, "Hellfire Pass", a pass built in record time by allied prisoners of war between 1942 and 1943.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the hotel and free time to continue your discovery on your own terms.





Accommodation

Felix River Kwai Resort – 4 Star

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

War Cemetery & Museum

Boat tour on River Kwai

River Kwai Bridge Visit

Hellfire Pass Visit

Entrance Fees

Thailand-Burma Railway Museum - 4 USD

Day 4: Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Phitsanulok

Location: Kanchanaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Phitsanulok

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Pattara Resort & Spa – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Farewell Kanchanaburi for the historic city of Ayutthaya! Known as Thailand's hidden archaeological gem, this city is teeming with Buddhist temples, monasteries and ancient statutes that cannot be missed.

Follow your guide on a walking tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that dates back to 1350, which was once the capital of the ancient Siamese Kingdom and considered the biggest city in the world! Explore the magnificent royal monastery of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Mahathat and three ancient pagodas, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet.

Next, we will ride to the city of Ang Thong to visit the incredible Wat Muang temple, famous for housing the largest seated Buddha figure in Thailand, and ninth largest in the world, at almost 100 meters high.

After enjoying a local lunch, we make our way to the city of Phitsanulok, located at the heart of Thailand and considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the country.

During the journey, witness the change in the landscape as it turns greener and lusher into a jungle-like flora.

Finishing the day with a full camera roll and plenty of knowledge from your local guide, arrive at your 4-star hotel for some leisure time.





Accommodation

Pattara Resort & Spa – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Ayutthaya Walking Tour

Entrance Fees

Wat Mahathat - 1,4 USD

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet - 1,4 USD

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol - 1 USD

Day 5: Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai

Location: Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Laluna Hotel and Resort – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

For the early risers, we wake up early today to visit the hotel's surroundings to make an offering to the monks, and experience one of the most emblematic aspects of Thai culture up close.

After breakfast, we ride to Sukhotai, the historical heartland of Thailand.

This impressive UNESCO World Heritage City was the cradle of Thai civilisation and home to the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1238 to 1438.

Follow your local guide on a walking tour through the Sukhothai Historical Park to explore the ancient temples, impressive ruins and the giant Wat Sri Chum Buddha statue in a scenic park setting.

Then, grab a window seat as we continue the journey towards Chiang Rai in the Lampang province.

En route, we will have lunch and rest along the shores of the spectacular Phayao Lake.

Arriving in Chiang Rai in the late afternoon, enjoy your free time to rest, swim in the hotel pool or visit the city's night market.





Accommodation

Laluna Hotel and Resort – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sukhothai Archaelogical Park Visit

Phayao Lake Visit

Entrance Fees

Sukhothai Historical Park - 3 USD

Wat Sri Chum - 3 USD

Day 6: Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kick off the day with a hefty breakfast, as our first stop will be the new and striking Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as Blue Temple.

Discover the marvellous paintings with a style similar to that of the famous White Temple, as the architect of which trained here for years.

To soak in the local culture, follow your guide to the village of Akha, an ethnic group known for its colorful costumes and the surrounding picturesque tea plantations.

Continuing to the spectacular and contemporary White Temple (Wat Rong Kun in Thai) on the outskirts of Chiang Rai, witness white represent the purity and wisdom of Buddhism in sublime beauty and serenity.

This bizarre-looking temple is the brainchild of Chiang Rai's famous artist and painter Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Unlike most Thai temples, the building is all white with glass and mirrors embedded into the outside to make it sparkle in the sunlight.

Keep your cameras at the ready because this temple is truly insta-worthy! This hilly, forested area also holds serene landscape views, winding rivers and is home to the best elephant sanctuaries in Thailand! Spend the evening in Chiang Rai, resting up at our luxurious 4-star hotel before a big day ahead.





Accommodation

Centara Riverside Hotel – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)

Visit Akha Village

Visit Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Entrance Fees

Akha Hilltribe Village - 9 USD

Wat Rong Kun (White Temple) - 3 USD

Day 7: Chiang Mai, Elephant Ecovalley, Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Elephant EcoValley

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, we depart for a half-day excursion to the Elephant EcoValley for many exciting and animal friendly activities.

Besides getting the best insight about these fascinating creatures, you will get to: Harvest grass/vegetation for elephant snacks along the way; hike on foot to Upper EcoValley with the elephants; plant a banana tree or herbs; make herb ‘n' fruit nutritional vitamin balls; feed the vitamin balls to the elephants (They love them!); share a mud bath with your new buddies (Watch or wash 'em yourself!); shower outdoors overlooking a mountain stream!



After returning to Chiang Mai in the afternoon, go up to the well-known mountain temple of Wat Doi Suthep, the best spot to appreciate the city in all its splendor.

At night, enjoy your personal time or walk through the famous night market to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.





Accommodation

Centara Riverside Hotel – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Half-day Excursion to Elephant EcoValley

Visit to Wat Doi Suthep

Entrance Fees

Elephant EcoValley - 62 USD

Wat Doi Suthep - 1,4 USD

Day 8: Chiang Mai, Bangkok (By Flight)

Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Furama Xclusive Sathorn – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, discover Chiang Mai freely or rest by the pool side until your transfer to the airport for a short flight to Bangkok.

As we check in to the hotel and freshen up, make sure to tick off any attractions left on your list on your last night in Bangkok.





Accommodation

Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium or Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point– 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 9: Bangkok

Location: Bangkok

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, our trip will end in Bangkok as we bid farewell to strangers who quickly became friends and check-out of the hotel by 11am.

Luckily it's not a final goodbye, but only until next time!



Meals Included

Breakfast

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 Star Hotels and Resorts

  • Meals

    8 Breakfasts

  • Transportation

    Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle

  • Orientation Walks

    Organised orientation walks at the towns visited

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Flight

    Flight between Chiang Mai & Bangkok

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Optional activities

  • Meals not stated above

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Travel Insurance

  • Items of a personal nature

Add Ons

Local Payment: £

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Company Instant Book

    No

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes passenger under age 18

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Yes, Flight between Chiang Mai & Bangkok

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    Yes

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    All travellers must be fully vaccinated.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$2164 $1082

Operator discount: -$1082

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 01, 2024
$2164 $1082

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Saturday - Sunday

Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024
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Dec 07, 2024 - Dec 15, 2024
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Operator discount: -$1082

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Operator discount: -$1082

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Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025
$2164 $1082

Operator discount: -$1082

Saturday - Sunday

Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 12, 2025
$2164 $1082

Operator discount: -$1082

Saturday - Sunday

Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 26, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 23, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$2121 $1061

Operator discount: -$1061

Saturday - Sunday

May 10, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$2121 $1061

Operator discount: -$1061

Saturday - Sunday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$2121 $1061

Operator discount: -$1061

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$2121 $1061

Operator discount: -$1061

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 22, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
$2180 $1090

Operator discount: -$1090

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$2283 $1142

Operator discount: -$1142

Saturday - Sunday

Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 11, 2026
$2283 $1142

Operator discount: -$1142

Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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