7-Day Bangkok Basics & Phuket Beach Break Tour: Phuket, Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong Railway Market & The Grand Palace

After landing at Bangkok International Airport, a tour representative will meet and greet you before guiding you to the transfer to your hotel. Then spend the rest of this first day at leisure, becoming acquainted with the vibrant city of Bangkok. Perhaps you could indulge yourself with a traditional Thai Massage, surprise your taste buds with the local flavours and cap off the day by enjoying the sunset from any of the stylish rooftop bars which have blossomed in the city's skyscrapers in recent years… the options are limitless.  Overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, prepare to spend half a day exploring three of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Begin at Wat Traimit, also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha, which houses a 3-metre-tall statue made from solid gold and that weighs 5.5 tonnes. Then pass through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, the temple of the Reclining Buddha and home to the Chedis of the Kings. This 46-metre-long and 15-metre-high Buddha is the largest in Bangkok, and it illustrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The Grand Palace, former residence of the Kings of Bangkok, is one of the most beautiful examples of an ancient Siamese court. Here you will see a variety of palaces used for different occasions: the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple. To round off the tour, call in at a local lapidary factory and showroom where you will be able to get locally made jewellery, handicrafts and silk at competitive prices.  

Note: The Grand Palace is closed during special royal ceremonies and during visiting heads of state.  
Overnight in Bangkok.

Depart from Bangkok and head to Maeklong Railway Market, also known as Talad Rom Hoop. Upon arrival, the guide will introduce you to the history of this area. See the action in several minutes before the train passing through the market. The process happens so quick it will amaze you for the unique moment. Then go to the world-famous floating market of "Damnoen Saduak", there are countless floating markets throughout the country, the colourfully clad merchants at these lively markets paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruits and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. This is an exciting and fun way to see the local like and to go bargain hunting. Transfer back to Bangkok. Breakfast included. Overnight in Bangkok.

Wake up to breakfast at the hotel before enjoying some free time for you to spend at leisure before the unescorted transfer back to Bangkok Airport, where you'll catch your flight to Phuket. Upon landing at Phuket Airport, head to the Arrivals hall where you will find a driver holding a sign with your name on it. You will then be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in before spending the rest of this first day at your leisure. The transfer is unescorted. Overnight in Phuket.

Indulge in a tasty breakfast before a full day to discover Phuket at your own pace, don't miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of this beautiful area. There are plenty of excursions available to book on the spot. Overnight in Phuket.

Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a slow day of rest and relaxation. Alternatively, you can choose to go on one of the following Optional Tours (not included):

Full-day Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat – English (Available Daily): Shared activity. Start at 08:00 am to 06:00 pm.
Pick-up from your hotel's lobby.
Transfers: included.
Meals: lunch included.
Dress code: Casual.Comfortable and light clothing is recommended.
Description: Enjoy sightseeing by speedboat around the islands and do some swimming inside a famous lagoon "Pileh", Viking Cave, Monkey Beach and Loh Samah. During our excursion, you will stop 1-2 times for snorkelling and swimming. Buffet lunch at the restaurant on Phi Phi Don will be served during the day. Leisure time for relaxation swimming, on the beach of Bamboo Island or Rang Yai Island. 
Overnight in Phuket.

Begin your last day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Then transfer to Phuket Airport to continue with your travelling arrangements. The transfer is unescorted.