The Duo: Bangkok & Koh Samui
Chaotic Bangkok and golden temples, then crystal-clear beaches of Koh Samui: Thailand in all its splendor.
Duration
14 days
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The tuk-tuk weaves between the stalls of Pak Klong Talad market as the scent of jasmine mingles with incense smoke. Bangkok reveals its treasures along the khlongs: the emerald Buddha of Wat Phra Kaeo, the golden columns of the Grand Palace, the rice barges heading up the Chao Phraya towards ancient warehouses. In Damnoen Saduak, the vendors in straw hats negotiate fruits and spices from their wooden pirogues, while Ayutthaya unfolds its ruined stupas across the central plain.
Then heading towards the Gulf of Thailand where Koh Samui stretches out its protected bays and coconut palms. The pig island is reached by traditional boat, the Ang Thong archipelago reveals its turquoise lagoons nestled between limestone peaks. Here, coconut perfumes every dish, fishermen prepare their nets under thatched huts, the transparent waters invite serenity after the capital's bustle.
This journey crosses four centuries of Thai history, from the Ayutthaya kingdom to Buddhist traditions still thriving in Bangkok's wats. A complete immersion that will remain engraved by its striking contrasts.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome and free visit of Bangkok
Upon arrival at Bangkok International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team, then transferred to our hotel. Rooms will be available from 2:00 PM. The rest of the day is free.
Depending on our arrival time, we may explore our neighborhood, discover the first flavors of Thai cuisine, stroll through the lively streets or simply relax at the hotel.
A Dive into the Heart of Bangkok
Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, you make your way to the docks and board a public water bus. As you travel along the water, you head towards the historic center on the right bank, until you reach the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and experience an authentic and traditional Asia.
We set off to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous ensemble of buildings and inner courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover there the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated sanctuaries in the country.
Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards punctuated by stupas and refined decorative details.
Next, we cross the river aboard a small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that shimmer in the light.
A ride aboard a private traditional long-tail boat on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the lifeblood of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," between peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.
On the Markets of Thailand
Bangkok → Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Departure from Bangkok to reach the famous floating market of Damnoen Saduak one of the most emblematic in Thailand: a colorful, lively and gourmet break.
Aboard a small boat, you glide along the narrow canals and observe the life of the market along the water: stalls laden with tropical fruits, small shops, boats crossing each other in a lively atmosphere. You take the opportunity to taste some specialties, stroll around, haggle if you wish, and leave with some typical souvenirs.
Continuation with the visit of the Wat Bang Kung (Kai Bang Kung), commonly called the Banyan Tree Temple, since its chapel was covered by the roots and branches of a banyan tree. In its gardens, we can notably observe life-size representations of wrestlers, commemorating the Battle of Ayutthaya between Thailand and Burma at the end of the 13th century.
We don't leave Amphawa without stopping at the Mae Klong market, also called the "railway market". Here, several times a day, the stalls set up right next to the tracks fold up in a few seconds as the train passes… before returning to their place as if nothing had happened. A stunning scene, perfectly orchestrated, which reflects the daily life and ingenuity of local merchants. (Train passes at 3:30 p.m.).
Maeklong Railway Market → Bangkok
We then head back to Bangkok, after a day filled with the region's most iconic markets.
Bangkok in Depth
Embark on a cycling tour in the lungs of the capital in the extraordinary neighborhood of Bang Kachao District - a true jungle in the heart of the city. At the entrance, you can rent bicycles to explore the park.
You can also visit an incense stick manufacturing workshop and several small temples and see old houses in the neighborhood.
Next to Chinatown, lies the amazing Talat Noi district, one of the oldest in Bangkok. Steeped in Chinese culture, this place is full of curiosities of all kinds, from street art to atypical houses and timeless temples. A real discovery of authentic Bangkok.
Visit to Wat Traimit or the Golden Buddha Temple, and the small but very interesting Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Museum, which traces the history of Chinese immigration to Bangkok.
Suggestion: In the evening, you can freely stroll through the Chinese quarter, wandering through the alleys brimming with all kinds of shops. At the beginning of the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side alleys that give new life to the neighborhood. You will find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties to dine on.
Journey Through Time in Ayutthaya
We set off to discover the Bang Pa In Royal Palace, an ancient royal summer residence built in the 17th century. Abandoned after the fall of Ayutthaya, the site was entirely restored and enlarged in the mid-19th century by King Rama V, who made it a privileged retreat.
In the heart of elegantly landscaped gardens, you discover a harmonious ensemble of pavilions with Thai, European and Chinese influences, testifying to the kingdom's openness during this period. A peaceful visit offering a refined insight into the royal history of Siam.
From the palace, you reach Ayutthaya by traditional boat, sailing up the river. Along the water, you observe daily life unfolding on the banks: wooden houses on stilts, village scenes, and barges laden with rice gliding slowly towards Bangkok warehouses. Gradually, the silhouettes of temples appear, their spires standing out against the horizon.
You arrive at Ayutthaya, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose remains tell of past grandeur.
After lunch, you set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.
The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.
Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siamese history.
Discovering Kanchanaburi and Its Surroundings
Departure to the station and boarding around 10:40 am on the famous "Death Railway" made famous by the story of the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", for approximately 1 hour of train travel westwards to the Sai Yok region, located 70 km west at the end of the railway line.
We will then be transferred to Elephant Haven for lunch.
Upon your arrival, you will meet your guide as well as the mahouts, the elephant handlers. Together, you will prepare their food before meeting these gentle giants and participating in their meal.
You will then set off on a walk through the forest alongside these majestic pachyderms, while your guide reveals to you their way of life, their behavior and the conservation efforts put in place for their protection.
The experience will continue with observing the elephants playing in the mud, a natural behavior essential to their well-being. You will then accompany them to the river for their bath, a moment that is both playful, moving and privileged.
Finally, we will return to the camp, where you will have the opportunity to capture this exceptional encounter with a few final photos before returning to your hotel at the end of the day.
Then we return to the capital after this unforgettable day.
The day is accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Getaway to the Gulf of Thailand
Your driver takes you to the airport for your domestic flight.
We take flight to Koh Samui Island in the Gulf of Thailand.
The 3rd largest island in the country by area, Samui offers some of the most pleasant accommodations in the country and a relaxed atmosphere, to which one willingly surrenders, and which makes it all the more welcoming.
With its many bays sheltering beaches with crystal-clear waters, it is pleasant to stay on the island.
The island also has the luxury of possessing a very distinctive gastronomy, based on the omnipresent coconut, which remains the main resource of the Samui people.
Relaxation on Koh Samui
Free day to enjoy the beach and available activities (not included, to be booked on site):
Boat excursion
Hiking
Mountain biking
Cooking class
Elephant sanctuary (if available)
And many more
Pig Island Excursion
Pig Island is a small island located off the south coast of Thailand, renowned for its abundant marine life and immaculate white sandy beaches, and of course its pigs inhabiting the beach. This morning, we embark on our boat with a first snorkeling stop at Koh Tan.
We then head to Madsum Island, nicknamed Pig Island. On the beach, we can have fun with the pigs, walk to the viewpoint, and go kayaking. We have lunch on site before returning to Samui in the early afternoon.
Transfer to our hotel, and the rest of the day is free.
Relaxation on Koh Samui
Free day to enjoy the beach and available activities (not included, to be booked on site):
Boat excursion
Hiking
Mountain biking
Cooking class
Elephant sanctuary (if available)
And many more
Excursion in Ang Thong National Park
Speedboat excursion limited to 16 passengers.
After morning pickup from Koh Samui, head directly to the pier to begin your maritime excursion among the 42 islands of Ang Thong. After being equipped with masks and snorkels, you will navigate to Koh Wao island to snorkel in crystal-clear waters amid coral reefs of magnificent diversity. Explore the sheltered bay keeping your eyes open to spot tropical fish.
Continuing through the national park, you will arrive at Koh Mae Ko, disembark and head to the panoramic view over the Emerald Lagoon, a gem of the Ang Thong park. Fed by the sea through a series of caves, the lagoon is completely pristine, as swimming is forbidden. Next, head to Koh Phaluai for a Thai lunch by the sea and to relax and unwind on the beach before returning to Koh Samui.
Relaxation on Koh Samui
Our stay on the island is slowly coming to an end.
Take advantage of one last massage and enjoy a bit more of the sweetness of Thai hospitality and exceptional gastronomy
Goodbye and see you soon in Thailand
Free morning to enjoy a little more of the sweetness of Thai life, the seaside and your hotel facilities.
Depending on our preference, transfer to Koh Samui airport from where we board our return flight to Bangkok.
Arrival at the international airport and lunch at the airport (not included) while waiting for your return international flight.
Goodbye and see you soon in the Land of Smiles!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Customs fees, baggage surcharge if you carry more than 20kg per person in the hold
- Meals and Drinks
- Supplements not explicitly mentioned, "early check-in", "day-use" or "late check-out"
- Tips and Personal Expenses
- International Insurance
- Visits or activities not explicitly mentioned
Included
- 4-star hotel accommodation with swimming pool
- Breakfast
- English-speaking Thai guide days 2 to 6
- Driver on Day 3 to 6
- Private transfers
- Domestic flight Bangkok / Samui / Bangkok
- The visits and activities mentioned in the program
- Local Insurance and Local Taxes
Your accommodations
Arte Hotel
Sand and sea beach resort
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 40% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
More than 60 days before departure: 40% of total price (deposit retained)
Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of total price
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travellers intending to visit Thailand for a tourist stay. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying information with the official authorities of Thailand and your country of residence before departure.
Passport
To enter Thailand, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry and must contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay visa requirements
Entry requirements and visa exemptions for tourist stays depend on your nationality.
You must verify your specific entry conditions with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country of residence before travelling.
The authorities may request:
an outbound travel document (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Before your arrival, you must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a digital arrival form implemented by the Thai authorities.
This document allows you to transmit to immigration services certain information required for entry into the country:
passport information
flight details
address of your first accommodation in Thailand
The form should generally be completed online in the days prior to your arrival. A digital confirmation or QR code may be requested when passing through immigration.
Travelling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
Depending on your country of residence, an authorisation for the child to leave the country may be required when a minor travels without one of their parents.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travellers should contact the Thai embassy or consulate in their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about the coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for you to enjoy your trip peacefully!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisk
Explorer'Cancellation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Banking Card Complement
Specific to our trips, we strongly suggest subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for claiming are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
Thailand can be visited year-round, but the best time is between November and February (dry and cool season). The north is cooler from November to January, while the southern beaches are ideal from December to April. The rainy season (June-October) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, with short and intense showers.
Entry conditions depend on your nationality and change regularly. Many passports benefit from visa exemption for short tourist stays; beyond that, a tourist visa can be obtained from the Thai consular representation before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry date. Check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Thai consular authorities before booking — our local team will assist you in preparing your documents.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €150 and €250 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€500-900 return) are additional. Our detailed quote lets you see each expense line for full budget transparency.
Absolutely! We tailor each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations (villas, suites), fun activities (elephant encounters, snorkeling, cooking classes), and comfortable private transfers. Children love Thailand!
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
It's simple: 1) Chat with Nanthida to define your wishes, budget and dates. 2) Receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. 3) Fine-tune every detail together. 4) Confirm and travel with peace of mind! Your local agency is available 7 days a week during your trip.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Voyage Thaïlande is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Bangkok
Thai escape accomplice, based in Chiang Mai
For me, Thailand reveals itself as much in its landscapes as in its everyday rituals: a smile, a shared meal, a mountain road, a simple moment that stays with you.
— Dylan
