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PERFECT 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary For 2024!

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If you are planning a Phuket and Krabi itinerary and are not sure how to spend your days, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve done exactly what you are planning to do, so I can share some insight and experience on organizing a Phuket and Krabi trip.

As you might already know, Phuket and Krabi are two of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand, and there is no doubt that there are plenty of things to do.

That is why I’ve created this 7-day Phuket and Krabi itinerary that explores the best highlights of these two places, so you can make the most out of your vacation.

Let’s get to it!

How Many Days In Phuket And Krabi Is Enough?

Before we jump into our 7-day Krabi and Phuket itinerary, let’s find out how many days you should spend in those two places.

I recommend spending no less than 7 days in Phuket and Krabi because there are simply so many things to explore. With 7 days, you’ll just have enough time to explore iconic places like Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach, and Patong Beach.

However, if you have the time, I would recommend you to spend 10 days in Phuket and Krabi. This will give you plenty of time for sightseeing and just relaxing on the beach, which you don’t really do that much of with 7 days!

Things To Do On Our 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

Below we’ll give a day-by-day breakdown of things to do in Phuket and Krabi on each day. We’ve started our itinerary in Phuket instead of Krabi, but it can be done vice versa as well.

Day 1: Arrival Day At Phuket And Relaxing On The Beach

On your first day, you will most likely arrive in Phuket by plane. After getting from Phuket Airport to your accommodation, it is time to relax on one of the many stunning beaches.

Pro Tip: Organize a transfer shuttle from Phuket Airport to your accommodation to save time and money!

If you are looking for a lively atmosphere for your beach day, head to Phuket’s most famous beach – Patong Beach.

Patong Beach is a busy beach with tons of activities, such as parasailing, jet skiing and more. But don’t mistake it for being dirty or overly crowded, as you can still find some quieter areas on the beach.

For a more relaxing vibe, head to Kata or Karon Beach, where you can also find plenty of restaurants and bars. Karon is my favorite beach in Phuket thanks to its white sand and crystal clear water. It is busy but not too busy, and the view from there is just gorgeous!

Day 2: Big Budhha, Phuket Town, And Partying At Patong Beach

On the second day, we recommend renting a motorbike or hiring a private driver to explore more of Phuket’s inland areas.

First, head to the Big Buddha, one of the most famous landmarks on the island. This gigantic white marble statue is 45 meters tall and sits on top of Nakkerd Hill with breathtaking views over Phuket.

Next, make your way to Phuket Town, where you can explore the old town with its unique Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful buildings. If you are visiting on Sunday, then make sure to visit the famous Sunday Walking Street Market for some amazing street food and souvenirs.

In the evening, head back to Patong Beach for a night out. Grab some street food at one of the night markets, then hit up the Bangla Road for some lively bars and clubs. It’s a definite must-do experience in Phuket!

Day 3: Koh Panyee And Bond Island Tour

On the third day, take a day tour to explore some of the islands and beaches near Phuket. A popular island hopping tour from Phuket is the Koh Panyee Tour with Bond Island.

Koh Panyee is an iconic floating village built entirely on stilts over the water by Indonesian fishermen. The community is predominantly Thai Muslim and has approximately 1,600 people from 360 families.

This remarkable village floats in the middle of Phang Nga Bay and is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park.

James Bond Island, known locally as Khao Phing Kan, is one of the most famous landmarks in Thailand . It earned its name from the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” which was filmed there in 1974.

At James Bond Island, visitors can admire the peculiar shape and the striking rocky pinnacle that juts out of the water.

Both islands are situated in Phang Nga Bay and are part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park!

📚 Read More: When Is The Worst Time To Visit Phuket?

Day 4: Go From Phuket To Krabi And Relax On The Beach

On day four, it’s time to head from Phuket to Krabi. For everyone traveling between Phuket and Krabi, even budget travelers, I recommend organizing a shuttle transfer. That is because public transportation takes a lot longer and drops you off either in Krabi Town or the outskirts of Krabi.

The shuttle from Phuket to Ao Nang takes around 3 to 4 hours, and once you check into your accommodation in Krabi, it is time to relax on one of the beaches!

There is really one beach in Krabi that is easy to get to and nice to relax on: Ao Nang Beach. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi with stunning limestone cliffs and clear blue water.

Spend the rest of your day in Ao Nang, and make sure you check out Ao Nang Landmark Night Market in the evening for some delicious street food.

📚 Read More: Phuket or Krabi: Which Should You Pick?

Day 5: Tiger Cave Temple And Emerald Pool

On the fifth day, we recommend exploring some of Krabi’s top attractions. Start your day early by heading to Wat Tham Sua or Tiger Cave Temple, located about 15 kilometers outside of Krabi Town.

To reach the summit where the tiger paw prints are, you’ll have to climb a steep stairway with over 1,200 steps! But don’t worry, the climb is worth it once you experience the stunning views from the top.

Next, head to the Emerald Pool , a beautiful natural pool with crystal clear water surrounded by lush jungle. It’s a great place for swimming and cooling off after your trek up to Tiger Cave Temple.

It is possible to do this on your own with a rental scooter or a hired taxi for a day. However, if you want to save some money and don’t want to drive hours on the scooter, we recommend going on a tour.

I drove from Ao Nang to Emerald Pool and it took 2 hours one way on a scooter. It was a painful experience that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemies

Day 6: Phi Phi Island Tour With Maya Bay

If you have come to Phuket and Krabi, then visiting the Phi Phi Islands is a must! Two islands make up the Phi Phi Islands: Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh.

Phi Phi Don is the main island with resorts, restaurants, and bars while Ko Phi Phi Leh is home to the most famous beach in Thailand – Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Maya Bay was closed for many years to allow for the damaged coral and wildlife to recover, but it has recently reopened to tourists! Don’t miss this Thailand bucket list experience !

Because Koh Phi Phi is rather far from Krabi and Phuket, we recommend doing a day tour to explore the islands. Make sure you pick a tour that includes snorkeling and sunbathing as well as Phang Nga Bay is full of gorgeous beaches and underwater wildlife.

Note: If you are considering staying on the Phi Phi Island (which you totally should), then check out our Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi itinerary here!

Day 7: Railay Beach Departure

On your final day, wake up early and head to Railay Beach for some last-minute beach relaxation and exploration. Railay Beach is cut off from the mainland by epic limestone cliffs, so it is only accessible by boat.

Railay Beach and its accompanying town are quite small, so it won’t take that long to see. Walk around the island and explore the different beaches, go rock climbing on the limestone cliffs (or just admire), or simply soak up the sun and enjoy your last day in paradise.

In the afternoon, take a boat back to Ao Nang and catch your shuttle or transportation back to either Phuket or Krabi airport for your departure flight.

Where To Stay In Phuket

The Thai party island of Phuket has tons of areas catering to different budgets and preferences. But because our Phuket and Krabi itinerary are only 7 days long, we’ll need to stay pretty central.

For that, we recommend staying in Patong Beach, the most popular and busiest area of Phuket. Stay close to the beach and nightlife, or find a quieter spot further away from the main strip.

Karon Beach is also a great option, with its long stretch of sand and relaxed vibe. It is located directly south of Patong Beach so you can still easily access the nightlife if you wish.

📚 Read More: Patong Beach or Karon Beach: Where Should You Stay?

Kamala Beach is another option, offering a more peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for couples or families. It’s just north of Patong Beach and still close enough to the action.

Where To Stay In Krabi

Similar to Phuket, the province of Krabi has many different areas to choose from when it comes to accommodation. However, we recommend staying in either Ao Nang, the main tourist hub of the Krabi province.

You might be tempted to stay on Railay Beach, but keep in mind that the accommodation options are limited and tend to be more expensive. Plus, staying in Ao Nang allows for easier access to other parts of Krabi like Koh Phi Phi or the Tiger Cave Temple.

Krabi Town is not a bad place to stay either, but the disadvantage of staying there is the distance from the beaches. If you don’t mind a 20-30 minute drive to the beach, Krabi Town offers a more local and authentic experience.

📚 Read More: Ao Nang or Railay Beach: Where Should You Stay?

Phuket & Krabi Itinerary FAQs

What is the best time to visit phuket and krabi.

The best time to visit Phuket and Krabi is during the dry season from November to February. The weather is pleasant with little rain and comfortable temperatures. March to May can be quite hot, while June to October is the rainy season with potential for heavy downpours and storms.

What Kind of Budget Should I Plan for a 7-day Trip to Phuket and Krabi?

The budget for a 7-day trip to Phuket and Krabi will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, on average, we recommend a budget of $50-100 USD per day for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Keep in mind that this may fluctuate based on the season and specific activities you choose to do.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Phuket and Krabi?

The most convenient way to get around Phuket and Krabi is by hiring a private driver or renting a scooter. There are also taxi-hailing service apps like Grab in Phuket and Krabi, but it’ll generally be harder to call one for long-distance journeys.

Final Thoughts: 7 Days In Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

Phuket and Krabi are two popular destinations in Thailand for good reason. With stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and plenty of adventure activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Our 7-day Krabi and Phuket itinerary gives you a taste of the best that these two provinces have to offer, but there is still so much more to explore. We hope this itinerary helps you plan your own unforgettable adventure in Thailand!

Global Gallivanting

My 7 day phuket itinerary + koh phi phi & krabi (2024).

No Thailand trip is complete without visiting Phuket and Krabi! If you want to find out how to explore both then this blog is for you!

Located in the south of Thailand, in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Phuket is the country’s biggest, most diverse and most popular island with beautiful beaches, buzzing night markets, breath taking natural scenery and world-class resorts.

But being such a big and vibrant island, which beaches, attractions and other islands should you visit and how do you fit all the highlights into one epic Thailand adventure!? Well, this post contains all you need to know…

I’m an expat who has been living in Phuket for over 3 years and has explored the island from top to bottom. So I’ve created what I think is the best Phuket itinerary with my insider tips.

This fun-filled 7 day itinerary for Phuket, Thailand includes the must-see’s, hidden gems, and island hopping to Koh Phi Phi and Krabi while skipping the over-rated places to make the most of your time here.

No time to read now? Pin this for later!

My 7 Day Phuket Itinerary – How to Spend 7 Days in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.

The first part of planning your Phuket itinerary is setting your dates and booking in your flights and accommodation – then you can start deciding all the fun things you’re going to do!

Phuket’s international airport makes getting to the island easy. The best time to visit Phuket weatherwise is between December and March. This is also the peak season so book your flights, accommodation and activities like island hopping trips in advance.

I’ll include plenty more Phuket travel tips at the end of this article.

Where To Stay in Phuket, Thailand

As Thailand’s largest island, there’s a huge range of different areas and places to stay in Phuket to suit all budgets and types of traveller.

From luxury hotels and family friendly resorts, to budget hotels and backpacker hostels, there’s no shortage of choice so the best place for you will really depend on what you are looking for.

Each place has a very different vibe so you can find out more about Phuket’s best hotels, resorts, and areas in my comprehensive guide on where to stay in Phuket .

The best beaches in Phuket are located on the West Coast. Lively Patong Beach is best for nightlife and budget travelers, while Kata beach, Karon beach and Kamala beach are popular with families and couples as they offer a more balanced experience.

Further north, Bang Tao beach and Mai Khao beach offer unspoiled beaches, luxury resorts and a peaceful atmosphere. Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural heart of the island and offers cafes, markets and colourful, heritage and boutique hotels .

To follow this itinerary I’d recommend staying near Nai Harn and Rawai in the south as these are the most stunning and trendy areas to stay right now.

Here are my top accommodation picks for Nai Harn and Rawai that provide a convenient base for this Phuket itinerary:

Best Luxury Hotel: The Nai Harn – Perched on a hill overlooking Nai Harn beach this stunning 5 star hotel offers a beach-club style pool and bar area and an amazing breakfast buffet!
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Selina – Stylish “all-in-one resort” with a beachfront restaurant and pool, wellness deck, and co-working space perfect for digital nomads.
Best Budget Hote l: Roost Glamping – Unique and glamourous camping experience with a pool and proper beds in stylish bells tents surrounded by nature.

Be aware that it is a 1-hour (or more) drive from Phuket International Airport which is located in the north of the island to Rawai in the South.

Staying at Kata Beach is also a good option as there’s a bit more choice and it’s more centrally located but the beaches are busier here.

How Long To Spend In Phuket

There’s so many beautiful places to visit and things to do in Phuket that a weekend or 3 days in Phuket is not enough time to see it all.

Along with exploring different beaches and attractions on Phuket island itself, you’ll also want to visit a few nearby islands. And maybe you want to see the nearby provinces of Phang Nga or Krabi , too?

If so, I highly recommend staying at least 7 days in Phuket (or more). Seven days is just enough time to enjoy all the top offerings of Phuket, plus check out the famous Phi Phi islands and some parts of Phang Nga Bay and Krabi too.

While the following itinerary can easily fit into seven days, if you have more time and want to take it slower I recommend staying in Phuket for 10 days or 2 weeks. You could extend your stay in Krabi, add a couple more island day trips or stay a few nights on Phuket’s other beautiful islands like Koh Yao Yai.

For more inspiration check out my Phuket Island Hopping And Day Trips guide – I guarantee you won’t get bored!

But how can you fit it all into seven days? The following 7 days in Phuket itinerary will show you how!

The Ultimate 7 Day Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Itinerary

Day 1 – arrive, settle in and relax.

View from The Nai Harn beach hotel in Phuket

Ease into your 7 day Phuket itinerary by spending the first day settling into your hotel and enjoying the beaches and local attractions. Make your arrival smooth and stress free by prebooking an airport transfer to avoid getting ripped off by taxis.

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation and unpacked, head to the beautiful Nai Harn beach to refresh in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and soak up the sun.

Just before sunset, drive or hike up the hill to The Windmill for an epic sunset. Alternatively, head to the nearby Yanui beach for a sunset kayaking session!

Go for dinner at one of the incredible seafood restaurants along Rawai Beach. I recommend Nikita’s (book ahead to get a waterside table!). After dinner, head across the road to Freedom Bar or Rawai Reggae Bar for live music and drinks.

Or, if you are feeling jet lagged and want to get an early night for a big day of beach hopping tomorrow, treat yourself to one of the spa treatments at your hotel.

Day 2 – Explore Phuket’s Famous West Coast Beaches

Phuket is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand, so it only makes sense to begin your Phuket itinerary with a beach day!

Start the day by hiking up to Promthep Cape in Rawai – the most southern point in Phuket. This stunning peninsula gets crowded every evening for sunset, but in the morning, it’s peaceful and beautiful. You can enjoy the view from the top or hike down to the end of the cape.

From here, head to Kata Beach for a morning surf session but make sure to stop at the viewpoint where you can get a stunning view of three beaches.

I f you prefer to sunbathe, check out Kata’s smaller sister – Kata Noi Beach . This tiny cove is home to numerous luxury resorts, giving it an almost private beach vibe.

Enjoy lunch in Kata town before taking a short drive to Karon Beach , one of the longest and most stunning white sand beaches in Phuket.

Along the way, stop at the trendy ‘ A Blanket & A Pillow Cafe ‘ for an iced coffee with an epic view overlooking the south of Karon beach.

Conclude your afternoon with a long walk or relaxing beach massage on Karon Beach before heading to Patong for the evening.

Hail one of the many tuk tuks for a fun ride to the famous Bangla Road at Patong beach , a bustling strip of bars and nightclubs.

Tuck into some delicious and affordable Thai cuisine at Patong Night Market . Here, you can get some of the cheapest and tastiest Pad Thai, delicious fresh fruit, and Thai desserts.

Patong is undoubtedly the hub of Phuket nightlife, but Bangla Road can be pretty noisy and seedy so isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but it’s worth checking it out at least once.

If you prefer a more chilled and elegant evening, head to one of the rooftop bars for spectacular sunset views or back to Karon Beach for cocktails and fire shows at Tann Terrace .

Day 3 – Enjoy Unspoilt Beaches and Elephant Sanctuaries

Oceanstone by Holy Cow, Bang Tao beach, Phuket

For day 3 in Phuket, explore the island’s north, where you will find many more stunning beaches and fabulous attractions.

Bang Tao Beach is 6 km of white sand with crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. The nearby Surin Beach is much smaller but has a wild, untouched vibe. Parts of it are also shaded by palm trees, helping you escape the heat!

I recommend enjoying a leisurely lunch complete with an ice-cold beer at one of the beach clubs, such as Hugo Hug, Carpe Diem, or Catch.

After lunch, if you want more beach time, head to Banana Beach or Mai Khao Beach , two peaceful and beautiful beaches in the far north of the island.

If you’re all beached out, head to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Thalang. Unlike many of Phuket’s ‘elephant camps, ‘ this ethical elephant sanctuary does not harm elephants by offering rides or bathing sessions. Instead, you can admire the beautiful mammals from above on a 1.5-hour canopy walkway tour .

Looking for an epic dining experience? Then, on the way back to your hotel, stop at Three Monkeys , one of Phuket’s most famous restaurants. Three Monkeys boasts a breath taking hilltop location built amidst a lush rainforest. The food and drink are a bit more expensive than other places, but it’s worth it because the views and experience are priceless!

Day 4 – Discover Temples, Thai Culture and Phuket Old Town

Big Buddha - Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Now you’ve seen some of Phuket’s beaches it’s time for some Thai culture! On day 4, visit Phuket town to see Phuket’s cultural hub and explore some nearby temples.

Start the day with a Thai cooking class where you visit a local market to buy the ingredients before making some famous Thai food such as pad thai, vegetable spring rolls and green curry. At the end of the cooking class, you can taste your creations, filling your belly for an afternoon of sightseeing.

Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Wat Chalong , one of Phuket’s most significant historical landmarks. This temple is just as popular with locals as it is with tourists. So you can learn first hand about the Thai culture of merit-making, a Buddhist practice for clearing bad karma and bringing good luck.

For sunset head up to the famous Big Buddha nearby. This is not your standard temple; it is a 45-meter (148 feet) tall and 25.45-meter (83.5 feet) wide white Buddha statue sitting atop one of the highest mountains on Phuket island.

The concrete statue is covered with Burmese white marble, and you can spot it from various points on the island. Still, it’s well worth seeing it up close, where you will also get an incredible view over the south of the island. It’s a popular sunset spot.

In the evening, head to Phuket Old Town to check out the colourful historic shophouses, boutiques and cafes. For dinner try some top-quality Thai food or international cuisine.

The best and easiest way to see all of these cultural attractions is with a tour like this half day Phuket City Tour which takes you to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Phuket Town and an amazing viewpoint.

If you’re visiting Phuket Old Town on the weekend, check out the night markets for cheap but delicious street food. Try to visit on a Sunday to experience the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market , when the streets really come to life and a great place to pick up some cool and unique souvenirs and gifts!

If you’re there on a weekday, don’t worry, as there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Phuket Town. Go Benz is extremely popular among locals, with long queues leading down the street every night.

Then, for dessert, grab some French toast from Phuketique before enjoying a cocktail or two at one of Phuket Town’s MANY cute bars.

Day 5 – Visit Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan) in Thailand

For day 5, it’s time to get out of Phuket and explore the stunning Phang Nga Bay, located in the next province north of Phuket.

Morning & Afternoon

One of the most popular ways to explore Phang Nga Bay is with a boat trip to James Bond Island . This island became famous after being used as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun.”

There are many different types of boat trips available to James Bond Island, including via speed boat, luxury yacht, and traditional long-tail boat.

I recommend choosing a day trip that includes kayaking, such as this James Bond Island Day Trip With Lunch . This trip includes kayaking through the caves of Panak Island and sea canoeing around Koh Hong Island’s emerald lagoons – the highlights of the Phang Nga Bay.

As most James Bond Island hopping trips last 8 to 9 hours, expect to return to your hotel around 6 p.m.

As tomorrow involves another big day trip, I recommend a quiet dinner near your hotel before an early night. If you want something unique, check out Rock Salt at The Nai Harn or Rustic And Blue overlooking Rawai Beach.

Day 6 – Visit The Phi Phi Islands And Maya Bay

No itinerary for Phuket is complete without a day trip to Phi Phi islands and the famous Maya Bay. So set an early alarm to make the most of this incredible part of Phuket and Krabi!

The best way to get to Phi Phi islands from Phuket is via speedboat. There are MANY tours available, which you can book online or in person, or you can take the public ferry directly from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town.

Most tours will pick you up from your hotel and include multiple stops in the Phi Phi islands. For example, this top rated Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip includes three snorkeling stops, along with sightseeing stops in Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach (where you can see wild monkeys) and lunch.

Maya Bay, Phi Phi islands, Thailand. Photo by Lucas Hemingway on Unsplash

Maya Bay is the most popular tourist destination in the Phi Phi islands, famed for being the filming destination for the 2000 film “ The Beach. ” While you can no longer swim at Maya Bay it’s still a spectacular sight to witness. Bamboo Island is another highlight on Phi Phi island hopping tours due to its serene location for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.

If you want to enjoy the island’s party vibe spend the night on Phi Phi Don (the archipelago’s only inhabited island). While the island is considerably more expensive than mainland Phuket or Krabi, there are plenty of budget accommodations alongside the luxury hotels.

If you want to experience the island’s nightlife stay somewhere like Phi Phi Villa Resort . This beachfront resort is close enough to Ton Sai Village to enjoy the parties but far away enough to get a peaceful nights sleep!

Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Ton Sai pier in Phi Phi Don to Krabi and enjoy an evening in Krabi Town or at Ao Nang night market before the final day of your Krabi Phuket itinerary.

The most convenient place to stay in Krabi is on Ao Nang beach but my favourite place is the stunning Railay Bay Resort on Railay Beach – just a 10 min boat ride away.

Be aware that the last ferry to Krabi is at 5 p.m. and takes 2 hours. You can also get a private speedboat transfer at a time that suits you which only takes 1 hour and includes a transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Krabi is a large province with many beaches and islands to explore, check out my guide to where to stay in Krabi for a detailed overview and recommendations.

Day 7 – Explore Krabi And Railay Beach

On the final day of your Phuket and Krabi itinerary, spend some time exploring the sights, attractions, and beaches in Krabi.

If you stayed in Krabi last night, you can start the final day of your Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary bright and early and catch an early boat to go island hopping.

You could join a jam-packed 4 Islands Krabi Day Tour , which visits the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach at Railay, along with stops at Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tub, and Koh Mor.

Or, if you’re looking for something more off the beaten track, head to the Hong Islands where you’ll find a dreamy beach, hidden lagoon and 360 degree viewpoint.

However, if you stayed in Phi Phi the night before, take the first ferry to Krabi at 9 a.m. or the 10 a.m. speedboat, arriving by 11 a.m.

One must-visit in Krabi is Railay Beach . You can take a long tail boat here from Ao Nang to explore the incredible limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons or try rock climbing.

Monkey Island, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand. Photo by Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, eat lunch at one of the restaurants along Railay walking street or Ao Nang beach o r escape the crowds by driving 30 minutes north to the peaceful Klong Muang Beach .

If you’re up for more of a jungle adventure you could explore the Tiger Cave Temple , and bathe in the hot springs and emerald pool. This Krabi Jungle Tour will take you there.

If you’re leaving Krabi today, head to the airport to catch your flight. To avoid traveling back on yourself to Phuket you might want to consider flying out from Krabi airport. Otherwise, enjoy a final night in Krabi Town before your onward journey tomorrow!

More Tips For Planning Your Itinerary For Phuket and Krabi

Before you book in your Phuket itinerary, here’s a few important tips to help you plan your trip to Phuket.

Best Time to Visit Phuket and Krabi

As a tropical island, Phuket and Krabi are warm all year round, but have different seasons that you should be aware of.

The best time to visit Phuket and Krabi is between December to March when you can expect consistently good weather – blue skies and plenty of sunshine but it’s not too hot and humid.

This is also the peak tourist season and the busiest, and most expensive, time to visit Thailand, so you should decide on your itinerary in advance and book in your accommodation, activities and day trips before arriving to avoid disappointment. I use Booking.com and Agoda to book hotels as they have the biggest selection at the best prices.

April and May are a good time to visit Southern Thailand if you don’t mind the heat. The islands are not too crowded by this time, but it can be very hot, ranging from 27°C to 36°C, which makes sightseeing a little uncomfortable.

Also consider November , it can be a lovely month to visit as Phuket and Krabi are relatively quiet but the weather can unpredictable as it’s the end of the rainy season.

June to October is the rainy season which sees short but frequent tropical downpours, cloudy and overcast skies. You’ll still get some sunny, dry days but the weather can be quite unpredictable and rough seas mean that it is sometimes not safe to swim during this time.

How to Get to Phuket and Get Around

Traveling to Phuket is easy as the island is home to Phuket International Airport (HKT) It’s Thailand’s second busiest airport and receives many direct flights from all over the world. Krabi also has an international airport but it doesn’t receive as many flights as Phuket does.

I find the best connections and cheapest flight deals with WayAway and even get cashback.

For this Phuket – Krabi itinerary you could fly into Phuket airport and then fly out from Krabi Airport to avoid traveling back on yourself, but it’s often cheaper to get your international return flight to Phuket and then add an internal Krabi to Phuket flight or take the ferry or buses between Phuket and Krabi – it only takes about 2.5 – 3 hours and is more environmentally friendly.

There are also buses and ferries from all over the country, the best place to book buses, trains and even ferries in Thailand is on 12Go Asia . But as Phuket is approximately a 12-hours from Bangkok, flying might be the quickest and easiest option, even if you’re visiting Phuket as part of a larger trip around Thailand. (P.S If your visiting the capital first check out my Bangkok itinerary too!

Most nationalities can either get a visa exemption for 30 days, or a visa on arrival, which makes entering Thailand easy and convenient. You can extend this for another 30 days by visiting the immigration office.

Once you arrive there are several options for getting from the airport to your accommodation. The easiest way is to book an airport transfer through your Viator, your hotel or a reputable company. There are also taxi and bus services on offer at the airport but taxis often overcharge.

Taxis in Phuket can be expensive, by Thai standards, so agree the rate first before hopping in. I recommend using online apps like Grab or Bolt for a cheaper and more convenient option.

The best place to book activities, tours and day trips in advance is on Viator or Get Your Guide , because there’s a lot of choice and you can read reviews so you know what to expect and can ensure your trip is a memorable experience for all the right reasons! If you’re visiting multiple places in one day a tour can be better value than taking lots of taxis.

If you’re on a budget then you can travel around Phuket by using the Smart Bus , which runs between the airport and Rawai stopping at all the major beach towns. A single ride is 100 THB, and you can also buy day or multi-day passes.

Riding in a tuk-tuk can be a fun experience that you should definitely try at least once when you’re in Thailand, but they are more expensive than taxis and most suitable for short distances.

For the most freedom you can rent a scooter or motorbike to explore Phuket. However, the roads can be busy and windy so I’d only recommend this if you already have experience driving in Thailand or Asia before. Make sure you have an international driving license (the police do check) and insurance that covers this too.

Ready To Start Planning Your Own Phuket and Krabi itinerary?

I hope this 7-day Phuket itinerary has given you lots of inspiration for what to do in Phuket. Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. This itinerary features all the top sights of this magnificent Thai island as well as the surrounding area and, as one of the most diverse Phuket itineraries, there is something for everyone.

Whether you find temples fascinating, seek serene snorkeling spots or the perfect mango sticky rice, or simply want to relax on picture-perfect beaches, following this itinerary for Phuket and Krabi will show you some of the most stunning places in Thailand and is sure to be an amazing adventure!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to this amazing part of Thailand. If you’re thinking of traveling to other parts of the country check out other blogs and guides for more tips. My comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide and list of the best places to visit in Thailand will give you plenty more inspiration and handy tips.

Read More Thailand and Phuket Blog Posts:

All My Thailand Blog Posts
The Perfect 2 Week Thailand Itinerary: Best of North and South
Things to do in Phuket
Where to Stay in Phuket
Best Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips from Phuket
3 – 4 Days Bangkok Itinerary
4 – 5 Days Chiang Mai Itinerary

11 Best Island Hopping Tours & Day Trips From Phuket (2024)

21 amazing places to visit in thailand – my favorites (2024).

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Phuket vs Krabi: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]!

I f you have been daydreaming of endless sunshine and idyllic beaches, maybe a trip to Thailand will be just what the doctor ordered. But with so many amazing places to visit within the kingdom, where should you head to first? Two destinations to check out are the neighboring provinces of Krabi and Phuket, on Thailand’s southwest coast.

Both of these provinces are packed full of pristine beaches, jungle-covered national parks, and fun-filled activities to ensure your Siamese sojourn is one that you will never forget. But before we dive into the details and differences that make these provinces so special, let’s first cover the basics…

Krabi Province sits on the west coast of the Malay Peninsula, facing the Andaman Sea, and was pulling in visitors way before Leonardo DiCaprio and a Hollywood film crew descended on Koh Phi Phi Ley to film The Beach (see photo below for the actual beach!).

Krabi has arguably better beaches, snorkeling and diving than Phuket, and you can still find gorgeous undeveloped patches of coastline to enjoy all to yourself.

The province also happens to be home to some of Thailand’s most famous tourist locations: Phi Phi, Railay, Koh Lanta, and Ao Nang. And it’s also now known as the home of one of the world’s most famous beaches, thanks to Leo and friends…

Phuket is an island province lying to the west of Krabi, surrounded by warm and inviting tropical waters. The Island of Phuket, or Koh Phuket, is the country’s largest island, and it dominates the province.

The whole province covers 543 square kilometers, with Koh Phuket claiming 514 of those square kilometers and the rest being shared among the 32 other smaller islands in the province.

Phuket is home to the infamous nightlife of Patong, several picture-perfect beaches, and some excellent shopping and activities to make sure your visit is truly memorable. It’s one of the best places for nightlife in the country, yet despite that it often suits families more than Krabi too – as we’ll show you below.

But which one is best for you and your holiday plans? Let’s dig deep into the details of these two incredible Thai destinations to help you plan your perfect vacation as we pit Krabi vs Phuket. After reading, we’re positive you will have decided which one to visit!

Which Is Easier To Get To?

Which Is Easier To Get Around?

Which has the better beaches, which is best for scuba diving & snorkeling, which has the best nightlife, which is best for a honeymoon, where you should stay according to your budget, which is best for a family trip, which is cheaper, what time of year is best.

Which Is Safer?
Which Is Better?

Which Is Easier To Get To: Krabi or Phuket?

Depending on your point of origin, the traditional route to reach these two southern provinces has been to fly to Bangkok and then transfer down to Phuket or Krabi via a domestic flight.

However, with the recent expansions of Krabi International Airport and Phuket International Airport, it is now easier than ever to reach these provinces without first traveling to Bangkok.

For Europeans, there are some direct flights which land in Phuket. If the airports in Helsinki, Copenhagen, Zurich, or Istanbul are convenient for you, you can hit the beaches of Phuket with just one flight. From other locations, you can transit via these airports or via the major airport hubs in the Middle East, such as Doha and Dubai. Krabi Airport is also starting to welcome more and more of these flights.

For travelers coming from Australia, there are direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney to Phuket, and you can also fly via Singapore to either Phuket or Krabi.

And if you are traveling from the Americas, you may need to fly via Seoul, Hong Kong, or Bangkok.

It is also worth noting that, as these two provinces are close together, you could also fly into Phuket and transfer overland to Krabi. The journey from Phuket Airport to Krabi Town, the administrative hub of Krabi Province, takes about two and a half hours by road.

And, of course, if you fancy a couple of nights exploring the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, the option to fly via the Thai capital is still there.

Just make sure you know which of Bangkok’s two airports your domestic flight is leaving from.

Most international flights arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, but most domestic flights are operated through Bangkok’s second airport – Don Mueang International Airport.

The transport infrastructure throughout Thailand makes moving around pretty easy. There are plenty of taxis, tuk-tuks, and minivans moving around both of these provinces to make sure you see everything on your Thai bucket list. Just be wary of tourist hustles when it comes to tuk-tuks – as our video below shows.

With Phuket Province essentially being a single, main island, it is very easy to move around, and arguably easier to move around than Krabi.

Phuket is also Thailand’s second-smallest province, so there are no huge distances involved when moving about. The journey from Phuket Airport, in the north of the island, to Rawai Beach, in the south, would take around one hour, depending on the traffic.

Moving around Krabi Province can be a little more time-consuming, as depending on the journey you may also need to take a ferry.

Krabi Airport is situated on the edge of Krabi Town, the administrative and transport hub of the province. Krabi Town itself is not a major tourist destination, but it’s good to stay here for a night if you have an early flight out. Around twenty kilometers to the west of Krabi Town is the tourist town of Ao Nang.

Ao Nang is a small town on the edge of the Andaman Sea with plenty of resorts and hotels to welcome you after your flight. If you plan to visit the iconic sunrise and sunset beaches of Railay, then Ao Nang is the best departure point.

To get to the famous Phi Phi, you will need a ferry from either Krabi Town or Ao Nang. There are regular ferries running back and forth between these locations, and the journey takes around 90 minutes by regular ferry. There are also speedboat options, which whilst more expensive, are around thirty minutes quicker.

It is also fairly simple to get to Koh Lanta Yai from Krabi Town. The majority of this journey is by road, with a ten-minute crossing from the mainland to Koh Lanta Noi via car ferry being the only section needing a boat. You can then drive across Koh Lanta Noi and over the bridge that joins Lanta Noi to Lanta Yai (Small Lanta Island to Big Lanta Island).

There is also a ferry service which connects Koh Lanta to Koh Phuket via Phi Phi. Why not explore both provinces? Traveling in and around Phuket and Krabi is relatively easy, and there are so many cool places to explore in both…

Looking down on tropical green of Phi Phi

There are many exceptional beaches strewn throughout both Krabi and Phuket. The problem will not be in finding stunning beaches; the problem lies in deciding which ones to visit.

Although if we had to choose which had the better beaches in the Krabi vs Phuket battle, Krabi may be better. However the best way for you to decide is to see what each province has to offer…

Phuket: The Beaches

The main beaches in Phuket are found on the island’s west coast, perfect for a sunset gin and tonic. The northern beaches are smaller and quieter, with the main bustling tourist beaches being towards the south.

Phuket’s busiest beaches are at Patong, Karon, and Kata. To the north of Patong, you can also find Kamala Beach and Bang Tao Beach; these are also very popular, but a bit more chilled than the rest.

Patong Beach is the busiest Phuket beach, and it’s also the busiest area of the island too. The beach is set in a large bay, and the water is usually very calm. The sand is soft and golden, and there’s plenty to do in and around the beach area.

For a calmer beach, head to Bang Tao. The sand is powdery soft, and the vibe is much more chilled out than Patong. Drop by the Catch Beach Club for a sunset beer and some cool tunes.

In general, Phuket has many beaches that are developed and geared towards nightlife. In comparison the beaches in Krabi are pristine and you can still find remote stretches of sand with not much development – as we show you next.

Empty sunny Koh Lipe Beach with tall palms and beach bungalows

Krabi : The Beaches

The best beaches in Krabi are out on the islands, although Railay is always worth a visit.

Railay is situated on a small headland between Krabi Town and Ao Nang. The area is only reached by boat and is stunning and secluded. Enjoy breakfast at the sunrise beach and a cocktail as the sun drops into the ocean at the sunset beach.

Koh Phi Phi Don is also home to some excellent beaches. The two main beaches, Ton Sai and Loh Dalum, sit back-to-back, with a narrow strip of land separating them. Loh Dalum is the quieter of these two beaches, as Ton Sai Bay is where the ferries to and from Phuket and Koh Lanta dock.

Long Beach is a twenty-minute walk from Ton Sai, and it’s much quieter. This is an excellent beach to chill with a book and is also good for snorkeling. Bring a mask and snorkel at dawn or dusk, and you may be rewarded with the sight of black-tipped reef sharks cruising around the rocks at the northern end of the beach.

For an even more peaceful beach on Phi Phi, head to Laem Tong in the north of the island. If you are already on Phi Phi and staying in Ton Sai, the best way to get to Laem Tong is via longtail boat.

And if you want to see the beach that Leo made famous, you need to travel by boat. Maya Bay is where the film The Beach was filmed, and it is located on Koh Phi Phi Ley, the uninhabited neighbor of Koh Phi Phi Don.

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat and beautiful sand beach

But, if you want to experience a few different beaches within Krabi, head to Koh Lanta Yai. Koh Lanta is a long, thin island, and its west coast is a beach lover’s paradise.

From Klong Dao Beach in the north, with its shallow child-friendly water, to the secluded Bamboo Beach in the south, Koh Lanta has excellent beaches.

The most popular area on Koh Lanta is in the Long Beach Area, sometimes called by its Thai name, Phra Ae. Long Beach is two kilometers of uninterrupted sand, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and resorts running the length of it.

Towards the south of Koh Lanta is the stunning beach at Kantiang Bay, arguably Lanta’s best beach. This beach is pretty quiet, but the sand is soft and the bay is beautiful, with good snorkeling around the rocky areas.

Monkeys waiting for food in Monkey Beach, Thailand

Thailand’s best marine life is found in the waters off its west coast. The marine life is way more diverse and varied on the west coast compared to the Gulf of Thailand, in the east.

The reefs close to Phuket, Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta are good for snorkeling, with Phi Phi probably the best snorkeling spot between these two provinces.

The dive sites close to Phuket are okay, and you can enjoy some good dives there, but the Krabi dive sites are much better.

From Phuket, the best dives are at three sites clustered together, quite close to Phi Phi. The three dive sites are called Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and the King Cruiser Wreck. These three dives can often be done on one dive trip.

Krabi’s dive sites include the Bida Islands: Bida Nok and Bida Noi. These two dive sites are covered in colorful soft coral, and there are resident black-tipped reef sharks in the shallows and leopard sharks resting on the bottom, blending in with the sand. There’s also a good chance of seeing turtles and seahorses, as well as a whale shark or two if you’re lucky.

The Bida Islands are also accessible by daytrip from Koh Lanta. In addition to these excellent sites, Koh Lanta dive centers also head to Koh Ha and Hin Daeng & Hin Muang. Koh Ha is a stunning collection of five islands and a good place for whale sharks, too.

Farther south from Koh Ha are two more dive sites, located right next to each other: Hin Daeng & Hin Muang. These two deeper sites in Krabi are always in the conversation for Thailand’s best dives, and the reason is that you can see both whale sharks and manta rays when visiting!

It depends on what type of nightlife you are looking for, but in general, Phuket is the best place to party.

The nightlife in Phuket’s Patong, in particular, is legendary. There are plenty of bars and clubs throughout Patong, but the main area is Bangla Road. At night, this street is a pedestrian-only zone, and both sides of the street are thronged by bars and clubs.

For a more chilled party in Phuket, the beach clubs in Kamala and Bang Tao are excellent too. Café del Mar has a chilled beach club in Kamala and is one of the best sunset spots on the island. Bang Tao, the next beach up from Kamala, is home to Catch Beach Club. Both of these beaches are a great place to end the day and start the party with a sunset cocktail and some cool tunes.

Krabi’s best party zone is Koh Phi Phi Don. The bars lining Loh Dalum Beach start pumping the tunes out in the early evening and don’t stop until the early morning. If you want to party the night away on the beach, then this is the place for you.

Koh Lanta has a few parties too, but they tend to be weekly rather than every night. Thursday night on Long Beach is the big Lanta party, but there are plenty of smaller parties on the island on other nights too. Lanta is a great place to recover from your Phi Phi parties…

Phuket, Phuket Walking Street night market in Phuket

If you are planning a honeymoon, both Krabi and Phuket have some idyllic locations, away from the hustle and bustle, where you can enjoy a peaceful and private vacation. And the best way to decide is probably to try and find the resort which suits yo best.

A great place to stay for a honeymoon in Phuket would be the Anantara Layan Resort . This luxurious resort is built onto the hillside at the end of Layan Beach and has excellent views across the ocean, down towards Kamala. Layan Beach is a secluded area to the north of Bang Tao Beach.

One of the best honeymoon hotels in Krabi is Pimalai Resort and Spa , in Kantiang Bay on tranquil Koh Lanta Yai.

This stunning hotel is also built on a hillside – see photos here – with views out across the Andaman Sea towards Phi Phi and Koh Ha. The pool villas are surrounded by jungle and are a peaceful haven with luxurious amenities. Members of the Thai royal family often vacation here!

Shoestring: Situated in Phuket’s Old Town, Baan Baan hostel is a tastefully decorated hostel known for being modern, pristine, fun, and an extremely friendly place. If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget, this is your best choice in the center of the action. See photos and rates here!

Budget: For a taste of luxury on a budget, then Island Escape by Burasari really is unbeatable. You’ll be taken on a boat shuttle to Coconut Island – five miles from Phuket center – where you’ll find a gorgeous five-star beachfront resort complete with swimming pool, private beach, outdoor activities and stunning views. It’s one of the nicest – and cheapest – five-star hotels we’ve ever come across in Thailand. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: Let’s be honest, if you’re traveling to Thailand then you will have access to some of the cheapest luxury resorts in the world. Sinae Phuket is one of them. At this five-star resort, situated on a peninsula near Phuket center – so still close to the city action – you can find luxury villas complete with private swimming pools and gorgeous sea views. Bliss. See photos and rates here!

Shoestring: The extremely photogenic outside of Play Poshtel & Cafe draws you in, but it’s the price you get for this four-star hotel that keeps people here for days. The location isn’t fantastic, but the hotel is modern, has great facilities, evening entertainment, and the staff are very friendly. See photos and rates here!

Budget: Talking of photogenic, Baan Phuvara Retreat takes that idea up a notch. This unique guesthouse is built in an old authentic wooden style on a jungle slope a few miles outside of Krabi. The result? You’ll be sleeping on a four-poster bed, and will have a balcony with fantastic views. All with the sound and feel of the jungle around you. Oh, and you’ll have a private jacuzzi on that balcony too. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: For a taste of the celebrity life then Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , is a stunning choice. This beachfront hotel with huge infinity pool, spa, gorgeous grounds, five restaurants, 24-hour butler service, and glamorous rooms, is one of the most beautiful resorts in the country. See photos and rates here!

If you’re planning on visiting with the family, maybe Phuket will have more going on to keep the kids entertained.

Phuket, whilst Thailand’s second-smallest province, is Thailand’s busiest tourist destination and so there’s a large amount of choice for hotels, with many big resorts with lots of amenities and activities going on.

Krabi can still be a great place for a family holiday, but with things a bit more spread out than in Phuket, you should choose your area carefully. The best two spots for families in Krabi would be Ao Nang and Koh Lanta.

Ao Nang has plenty of large resorts with pools and more Western amenities than Lanta. The main road in Ao Nang has McDonald’s and Starbucks, but also plenty of amazing Thai restaurants too. Ao Nang is a great place for day trips out to the nearby islands, including the Phi Phi Islands.

Koh Lanta is still a very relaxed island, ideal for a laid-back family vacation. If you have younger children, Klong Dao is a great beach for them to play on, as the water stays shallow and there are usually lots of other children around playing.

There are two Swedish schools on Klong Dao Beach; Swedish families enjoy staying on Koh Lanta for extended periods of time during the European winter, and their children attend these schools so your kids may make some Swedish friends when visiting!

A beautiful family walks together on a tropical paradise beach

As two neighboring provinces, there’s not a huge difference between the cost of living in Phuket or Krabi. The average meal and drink prices will be very similar, and are both cheaper than Europe in this regard. Whilst it may be easier to spend more in Phuket, it’s very easy to stick to your budget in either location.

Trips and excursions are also similarly priced in Krabi and Phuket, but with Phuket covering a smaller area than Krabi, some trips may involve less travel and could be cheaper as a result.

However if you are visiting in the middle of the high season, around Christmas and New Year, then you may find it easier to find a hotel which suits your budget in Phuket.

That’s because there is a higher concentration of hotels in Phuket compared to Krabi. Both provinces have some extravagant 5-star hotels, and both have plenty of options for backpackers too.

Aerial view of Big Buddha viewpoint at sunset in Phuket province, Thailand

With both Krabi and Phuket being on Thailand’s west coast, the weather patterns are the same. The wet season on this coast runs from June through October. During rainy season, the vast majority of the rain falls between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm each day, which cools the air for the evening. The days are usually filled with sunshine and blue skies, but not always.

From November through May, the west coast experiences its dry season. At this time of the year there is very little rainfall, and the humidity is lower.

But if you visit Thailand in April, avoid booking travel on April 13th, which is Thai New Year. Whilst it is still possible to travel on this date, you and your belongings will get wet! Why? Well, Thais celebrate their New Year, called Songkran, by having a nation-wide water fight! This is a great day out anywhere in Thailand, and if you have never experienced it, you should!

A long boat docked on beach in Krabi, Thailand summers

Which is Safer?

Both are safe destinations, which is why tourists visit in their droves every year.

However, as always when on holiday you should avoid confrontations with locals, avoid walking in unlit areas at night, and keep an eye on your drinks when at clubs and bars.

As for which destination is safer, you’ll find this is a contentious point among locals and tourists alike.

However the fact remains that Krabi has a lower crime rate than Phuket. Phuket also has far more ‘party areas’ and like anywhere in the world when drinks are involved, there’s the potential for criminal activity.

Woman traveler wearing blue dress and straw hat at Panoramic aerial view of Laem Sing beach on Phuket island, Thailand in a sunny day

Krabi vs Phuket: Which Is The Better Choice?

At the end of the day, if you are looking for a beach vacation in Thailand, Krabi and Phuket are the best two provinces. Both have stunning beaches and plenty of activities to keep you bus and entertained.

Families may prefer the abundance of choice that Phuket offers, although, chilled out Koh Lanta is another great family destination.

If you’re looking to party, head to Phuket or Phi Phi. But Ao Nang and Koh Lanta, or Phuket’s northern beaches, are perfect for a more relaxing beach holiday.

Krabi is arguably the more beautiful destination, and could be the better choice if you’re looking for a relaxed vacation with a mix of sunbathing and adventure, alongside cultural attractions.

However whichever destination you choose, you will have a fantastic time exploring the Land of Smiles!

Recommended For Your Trip to Krabi or Phuket

View from above, stunning aerial view of two people walking on a beautiful tropical beach with white sand, turquoise clear water and a traditional long-tail boat. Banana beach, Phuket, Thailand.

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Krabi Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: January 17, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, be sure to consider this awesome three days in Krabi itinerary.

Krabi is a coastal town located on the west coast of Thailand that is surrounded by craggy limestone hills and pristine islands. It has a spot on the bucket list of countless travellers.

Vibrant bustling streets in Ao Nang Beach and the gorgeous view of Railay Beach, dining by the river in Chao Fah Night Market, dipping in Emerald Pool, panoramic view of Krabi city – it’s not exaggerating to say that Krabi truly has something for everyone .

Did I mention the Krabi island hopping tours? There are plenty of those to go around!

Table of Contents

Hiking in Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint

Shell cemetery (susan hoi), pay a visit to wat kaew korawaram, sunset & nightlife in ao nang beach, walking along the pier, go for an island-hopping tour, have a drink in a bar in krabi town, hiking in wat tham sua or tiger cave temple , ride to emerald pool in krabi, dip into klong thom hot springs in krabi, dinner in chao fah night market, best time to visit krabi, getting to krabi, thailand, getting around in krabi, where to stay in krabi – baan to guesthouse , wrapping up your krabi itinerary, the perfect 3 days in krabi itinerary for every traveller.

If you’re planning a trip to Krabi, Thailand, here is the perfect 3 days in Krabi itinerary to ease up your travel planning!

We’ll include island tours in the Andaman Sea, the famous Railay Beach, Krabi night market, hikes through the jungle, views over the stunning Krabi province, and more. There is so much to do when you visit Krabi town and the surrounding areas!

Day 1 – Hikes and Nightlife

Let’s get the first morning of your Krabi itinerary started with some hiking. You’ll end the day exploring Ao Nang, a vibrant town for nightlife.

What’s a better way to start your trip in a new city than enjoying the panoramic view over the surrounding wilderness after an exhausting hike?

Everyone has their way of fighting the fatigue of flying. In my case, I always prefer hiking, which guarantees a good night’s sleep at the end of the day.

The hike to Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint is not a difficult one, but it does take some time – around 2-3 hours for a return trip.

And the next stop on our Krabi itinerary is on the way back from Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint, so plan for a long day out.

There are plenty of free motorcycle parking lots at the entrance in front of the luxurious resorts. Don’t ride past the gate, if not, you’ll be charged a parking fee for a distance of 5 minutes’ walk.

There is no entrance fee to this hike, but the ranger at the counter will repeatedly remind you to tip them before and after you do the hike.

The Surreal View Of Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint Over The Vast Rainforest In Krabi.

Like other hikes, there are steep and plain parts on the trail. For some steeper parts, they’ve built staircases to make your hike easier.

It’s all dirt trail on the hike, and wearing a sandal is no doubt a bad idea. The dense jungle blocks off any winds that could be cooling you off, so make sure you bring plenty of water to hydrate yourself!

When you’re approaching the peak, there are signboards pointing to a waterfall and a lake. You may want to avoid these as they are not all that attractive.

At the peak, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view at a few hundred meters above sea level. Just make sure you don’t stand on the dangerous cliffs barred off from visitors.

Never risk your life for a photo, just enjoy the view from the vantage point.

If you have the time, stop at Tubkaek Beach , located right just after leaving Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint. This is a very quiet, long beach with amazing views on the limestone hills budding from the sea surface in distance.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide! Click here to check it out .

The Krabi Shell Cemetery is located 17 kilometres from Krabi town centre, which makes a great detour on your way back from the Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint. That’s if you’re staying in Krabi town.

The road leading to the entrance of Susan Hoi is intercepted at the main road connecting Ao Nang Beach and Krabi Town.

With the shell fossils dating back to 25-40 million years, it’s a great place for those who’re interested. But if you’re not into these things, you’ll probably want to pass on this attraction and head straight back into Krabi town.

The entrance fee to Susan Hoi is 200 Baht per entry.

On your way to the next point, don’t forget to grab some snacks or drinks from the Family Mart or 7-Eleven. They’re spread out across the town like mushrooms, you find them literally everywhere.

Wat Kaew Korawaram is absolutely the most elegant temple in Krabi. Located right inside Krabi town centre, the temple is easily accessible to visitors staying near the pier.

The staircases leading to the temple from the main road are decorated with naga sculptures, giving it a classic Thailand Buddhist temple appearance.

Upon reaching the temple, you’ll notice several dozens of information boards depicting the stories of Buddha – the birth of Buddha, how Buddha achieved enlightenment , and more.

The only downside is that some of the details and explanations are in the Thai language only.

While you’re there, take a moment and appreciate the architecture of the majestic temple. The entrance to Wat Kaew Korawaram is free of charge!

Now we’re talking about one of the most popular beaches in Thailand – Ao Nang Beach. This well-trodden beach is often the spot to be for sunset views.

And despite the crowds, there’s no reason to miss Ao Nang on your Krabi itinerary.

On your way to Ao Nang Beach, you’ll pass by dozens of vibrant stores before reaching the parking lot.

While the beach is always filled during evening hours, it’s totally possible to find a spot for yourself on the massive stretch of beach.

Head into the bustling streets and alleys of Ao Nang when the sun goes down as this is when the nightlife begins.

Hundreds of restaurants serve cuisines from all around the world on the wide budget range. Need cheap eats? Head over to the night market.

Bars, pubs, and souvenir stores are spread throughout Ao Nang, so you’ll surely enjoy your night there!

Day 2 – Island Hopping

After a fun night in Ao Nang, get ready for an epic day. Your second day in your Krabi itinerary will be an unforgettable one.

Today, we’re going island-hopping! You’ll get to see some gorgeous islands, and even pay a visit to the infamous Railay Beach.

Walking along the Krabi pier is a great way to start your day. Facing east, you could catch the sunrise from the mangrove forest on the opposite side.

The famous crab sculptures and several decorations were placed along the pier and every morning, it welcomes dozens of morning runners.

On your way back to your hotel, grab a sandwich from the Family Mart nearby or quickly stop at a cafe or restaurant of your choice in the area.

It’s going to be a busy day so load up on coffee and grab that bite to eat and let’s get started!

A trip to Krabi wouldn’t be complete without an island-hopping tour. This very coast is surrounded by dozens of breathtaking uninhabited islands, crystal-clear waters and limestone hills.

It’s extremely easy to book a tour in Krabi. The easiest way would be booking with your accommodation manager, who usually has some discounts.

Most tours you will find will either be for 4 islands or 7 islands.

While I was staying in Baan To Guesthouse in Krabi, I went on the 7 Islands Sunset Tour for 900 Baht (discounted from 1,500 Baht).

There are also different tours like the 4 Islands Tour (which is more well-known to visitors), kayaking tours, rainforest discovery tour, and more.

There is honestly not much difference between the 7 Islands and 4 Islands tours.

BONUS – Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code “NOMADS10” on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Both are going to provide you with a full-day tour. The 4 islands tours will allow you to spend more time on each island. But you get to see more on the 7 islands tour.

It’s all up to you whether you want to spend more time racing around between the different islands or relaxing on the beach!

For the 7 Islands Sunset Tour you can expect an itinerary similar to this:

The tuk-tuk will pick you up at 12 pm and bring you to Ao Nam Mao Pier. There, you will register yourself and collect the snorkelling mask.

Snorkeling With The Fish In Chicken Island.

You’ll then be directed onboard the longtail boat to start your day.

Throughout the day you will be visiting Tup Island, Thap Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, Ma Tang Ming Island, Si Island, Phra Nang Beach, and Railay Beach (which technically isn’t an island).

You will get to walk between Tup Island and Thap Island , which is connected by the shallow beach on foot. You’ll also get to snorkel with the fish near Chicken Island , chill on Poda Island , visit Phra Nang Cave Beach and finally feast on a buffet dinner while watching the sunset in Railay Beach .

Railay Beach is one of Thailand’s most famous. Framed by limestone cliffs and dense jungle, Railay Beach is popular among rock climbers and photographers.

For some tours on your Krabi itinerary, you may also get to go night snorkelling to see the phytoplankton before heading back for the fire show at the pier at around 8 pm.

Sounds cool, right!? Book a 4-Island tour here!

An alternative option is booking a day tour to Koh Phi Phi . Koh Phi Phi is a great day trip, as it includes all the highlights like Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Maya Bay.

We would recommend spending a few days in Koh Phi Phi and taking your time seeing Maya Bay and the Koh Phi Phi town center.

But if you’re short on time and you’d rather visit Koh Phi Phi as a day trip from Krabi, you can do that. Any Krabi island hopping trip should include Koh Phi Phi for sure!

The View You Get From Tup Island, Surrounded By Nothing But Pristine Beaches And Crystal-Clear Seawater. Well, And Boats And Other Visitors, Of Course.

After returning back to the Krabi province after a busy day exploring the islands you will find the nightlife is starting to pick up.

Krabi is home to countless bars, swarmed by foreign visitors every night to spend the last few hours of the day. If you’re staying in Ao Nang Beach, then, of course, you should spend the night there.

I never visited all of the bars in Krabi Town, but there’s one particular bar that I highly recommend – Booze Bar . The staff are friendly and they have live music and lovely vibes, all you could ask for in a perfect bar.

READ MORE: Be sure to spend some time visiting Koh Phi Phi after your Krabi itinerary

Day 3 – Caves and the Emerald Pool

Most of the accommodations in Krabi do include breakfast in your stay, but if they don’t, they probably have a café to fill your morning tummy.

Today, we’re gonna rent a motorcycle to have fun around the outskirts of Krabi. If it’s not your thing, it’s pretty easy to get a tuk-tuk in Krabi to get to wherever you want!

You can also save a bunch of time by booking today’s activities as part of an all-inclusive tour ! Perfect if you’d rather not run the risk of riding a motorcycle without insurance or a license when you visit Krabi.

You might want to know that this is way more physically demanding compared to Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint.

I’m not trying to scare you. But trust me, you’ll be thanking yourself after reaching the top, enjoying the magnificent view of the temple sitting upon the ragged limestone hill.

At the base, there are several attractions like an artificial waterfall, cafeteria, and temples.

But the main attraction lies on the top connected by the 1,200-step staircases (Note: due to its physical demand this is not for all travellers.)

Visiting in the morning is a better idea as the weather is usually cooler and the sunlight isn’t as harsh as the scorching tropical sun in the afternoon.

It takes around 20-40 minutes to get to the temple on top.

If you’re worried about dehydration, bring a water bottle with you. But note that there is a water station at the temple on top to refill your bottle.

You’ll have to take off your shoes to visit around the temple, and you could easily spend 30 minutes up there on the view alone.

Also, be extra careful of the aggressive monkeys. Don’t touch them, and don’t go near a mom with babies. And definitely don’t feed them.

Over the years, Emerald Pool has become one of the must-visits in Krabi for no other reasons than it’s simply wonderful. Minerals in the water make the colour absolutely spectacular!

Located inside Thung Teao Forest Natural Park , there are several hiking trails surrounding the emerald pool too. But for now, let’s go straight for the pool.

Due to the tourist crowds, it’s wiser to pay this attraction a visit in the morning. So, it’s all up to you if you want to interchange this with Tiger Cave Temple.

With an entrance fee of 200 Baht, you are allowed to soak yourself in the crystal pond for as long as you want. The entrance closes at 4.30 pm.

Next up, Klong Thom Hot Springs is located near Emerald Pool, so I highly recommend you arrange both of these attractions on the same day on your Krabi itinerary.

The hot spring itself is extremely small and difficult to accommodate the number of visitors daily.

So, the authorities have decided to build an artificial pool near the hot spring and drain part of the water there for more people to enjoy.

The artificial pool is located before the authentic hot spring. So, if you’re visiting in the non-peak hours you could possibly enjoy the hot springs surrounded by gigantic tree roots.

It’s advised that you shouldn’t soak yourself in the hot springs for more than 20 minutes at a time.

The entrance fee to Klong Thom Hot Springs is 160 Baht, plus 10 Baht for your motorbike parking.

Chao Fah Night Market is one of the most enjoyable night markets in all of Thailand. Hundreds of tables and chairs are arranged by the pier, fenced by dozens of hawker stalls.

You can go over all the menus of every stall, but you won’t notice much difference other than the design. Choose the one you like, and order whatever you want, and they’ll arrange a seat for you.

There are milkshake stalls there, which I recommend. (Krabi has much better milkshakes compared to Phi Phi Islands and Phuket, honestly.)

The highlights here are, of course, seafood, since Krabi is a coastal town. And they’re surprisingly affordable here too. You can get a big plate of clams for under 200 Baht!

You could also choose to attend the Blue Dragon Cabaret show , which is one of the more popular and most famous attractions in all of Thailand.

There are other Ladyboy shows throughout Thailand but this is worth a watch on the last of your 3 days in Krabi itinerary.

READ MORE: Check out these great things to do when you are in nearby Phuket !

Krabi Thailand City Guide

Now that you have a pretty good idea about what you’re going to do with your 3 days in Krabi itinerary, let’s help you travel to and around Krabi and find the best accommodation and food!

The best time to visit Krabi and the rest of Southern Thailand is generally during the dry season, which spans from November to April.

During these months, Krabi experiences pleasant weather with clear skies, warm temperatures, and lower humidity. Travel guides would recommend these months for exploring the region’s renowned limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.

While the peak tourist season occurs from December to February, offering optimal conditions for various outdoor activities like rock climbing, island hopping, and snorkeling, visitors can still enjoy nice weather in the shoulder months of November and April.

However, you should always check the local weather and be mindful of potential variations in weather patterns, as occasional brief rain showers can occur even during the dry season.

If Krabi is your first destination in Thailand, then there’s good news – there is an international airport in Krabi.

Inside the Krabi Airport, you’ll have to choose between taking the shared van or private transfer to your accommodation.

In my case, I took the shared van, which is surprisingly comfortable with leather seats and a well-air-conditioned interior.

It took around 30 minutes to reach our hostel, and yes, they drop you right at the doorstep. The price? Only 90 Baht!

In some cases where you’re travelling in Phuket first, then consider taking the shared van from the bus terminals to Krabi. There are two bus terminals in Phuket.

It takes 3 hours to reach Krabi by bus. The only downside is that the bus terminal is rather far from most accommodations.

You might need a cab to get to your hotel, or you could walk, which I did! The shared van costs 140 Baht.

What if you’re staying in Ao Nang? Well, it’s pretty similar.

From the airport, catch the shared van to Ao Nang, which costs slightly more at 110 Baht. From Phuket, just tell the receptionist that you’re going to Ao Nang. It’s pretty straightforward as Ao Nang and Krabi are so close.

For travellers, the most popular place to stay would be near the Chao Fah Park Pier. There are plenty of shops, marts, hostels, and hotels – and of course, night markets.

Since there are not that many attractions inside Krabi Town, renting a motorcycle is the easiest way to visit the nearest attractions like the Emerald Pool, Ao Nang, Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint, and more.

Renting a motorcycle when you visit Krabi is almost effortless and is reasonably priced at around 200-250 Baht per day.

This price excludes petrol, which is pretty cheap as well. Chances are, you can rent a motorcycle from your hotel or hostel.

If a motorcycle is not your thing, then your options would be either private cabs, tours or GrabCar.

Tours are pretty common when you visit Krabi due to its popularity among Chinese, Russian and Korean tourists. So booking a tour is trouble-free.

Baan To Guesthouse definitely has one of the most strategic locations for those who visit Krabi. Within a 5-minutes’ walk, you’ll get to Chao Fah Night Market, the pier, and plenty of amazing cafes and restaurants, like 89 Café .

I highly recommend this café, even though it’s a little pricey, the foods are top-notch and will never disappoint you.

They have one of the cheapest prices for double rooms in Krabi, and the on-site restaurant is perfect for breakfast. The host was extremely friendly as well, and we gladly rented her motorcycle for 250 Baht per day.

The rooms were basic, a little bit warm, so I suggest getting an air-conditioned room.

I hope you enjoyed reading this 3 days Krabi itinerary. Krabi Thailand is a wonderland for those who love nightlife. But it’s also perfect for those who enjoy travelling at a slower pace.

In short, Krabi Thailand has something for everyone. Three days in Krabi are enough for most people to take in the essential attractions.

But if you’re opting to stay longer, Krabi is a great spot to sit back and relax!

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Phuket-Krabi Thailand 7 days optimized itinerary

Arrive in Phuket, city bus to Phuket city (less than 100 THB per person) or airport shuttle minibuses (180 THB per person) or taxi, depending on your budget and convenience.
I am assuming you will have at least half a day to explore Phuket once you reach your hotel and fresh up. If not customize as per your available timing and preferences.
For half a day in Day 1, you can rent a motorcycle and tour South Phuket.
Begin from Patong (assuming this is where your hotel will be), head to Freedom Beach (private beach 200 THB entry fee applies), Karon and Kata beaches, Karon viewpoint, Windmill view point, Elephant camps, Prompthep Cape, Rawai beach and Big Buddha Phuket. This ride will be around 100 kms and will take 4-5 hours depending on how much time you stop for at each place. Return to hotel by evening.
Night you can visit Simon Cabaret or walk in the streets enjoying street food, night life. Be careful about scams.

Rent bikes from reputed agencies only, to avoid being scammed (some agencies steal their own bikes and make you pay)
Visit during off season if possible. Saves lots of money, less crowd. Check here for all the benefits and risks of visiting Thailand in off season.
Try booking during Air Asia sale- I got Chennai Phuket return ticket for Rs 9900 only. You should be able to get a decent return ticket or two one way ticket for around 15000-16000 INR in normal conditions if booked few months in advance.

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Travelling from Phuket To Krabi: The Best Ways To Get There

Discovering the beauty of southern thailand: getting from phuket to krabi.

G’day mates! Captain Mark here, and I’m excited to tell you all about one of my favourite places in Southern Thailand – Krabi. With its stunning beaches, incredible limestone cliffs, and vibrant local culture, Krabi has something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll be covering all the ins and outs of traveling from Phuket to Krabi and exploring the must see beauty of this magical region. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and let’s get started!

Looking to discover the must-visit and see places in Krabi? Look no further than our latest blog post! We’ll be covering all the ins and outs of traveling from Phuket to Krabi and exploring the breathtaking beauty of this magical region. Don’t miss out – check out our blog now!

How Far Is Krabi From Phuket?

If you’re planning your trip to Thailand, you might be wondering how far Krabi is from Phuket. Well, the distance by road between these two beautiful destinations is around 160 kilometers. The journey takes around two to three hours, depending on your mode of transportation. It might seem like a long way, but there are plenty of ways to travel between Phuket and Krabi. Trust me, the journey is worth it!

Getting to krabi from phuket by speedboat - one way transfer - phuket sail tours

Phuket To Krabi - How Do I Get From Phuket To Krabi?

Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery, or outdoor adventures, Krabi has something for everyone. With its limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests, it’s no wonder that Krabi is a favorite destination among travelers. So, if you’re wondering how to get from Phuket to Krabi, you have a few options. Here are the top 5 best ways to get to Krabi from Phuket:

1. Hopping On a Local Bus To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re considering taking a bus from Phuket to Krabi, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it’s essential to arrive at the bus terminal early to secure your seat and avoid disappointment, especially during peak travel seasons. There are various types of buses available, ranging from basic to more luxurious, with different seating options and amenities. While the basic buses may be more affordable, they may not provide the most comfortable ride. On the other hand, airconditioned buses offer amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, and even onboard toilets. Unless on a very tight budget, this is not something I would recommend for those visiting Thailand for the first time. For the very reason that this can be quite a challenging experience if you have not travelled on a local Thai transportation service before.

Here’s where you can check the timetables and buy a bus ticket online from Phuket to krabi: https://www.busonlineticket.co.th/

2. Getting A Taxi To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re after a comfortable and convenient travel experience, then taking a taxi from Phuket to Krabi might just be the perfect choice for you. Unlike buses, taxis provide a private and personalized journey that allows you to relax and enjoy the ride without the crowds or long waiting times. One of the advantages of hiring a taxi is the flexibility to choose your departure time and route. With the ability to hire a taxi at any time of day or night, drivers can also take alternative routes to avoid traffic or get you to specific destinations. It’s always a good idea to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid any unexpected charges or disagreements later on.

3. Book Your Ferry Tickets To Krabi From Phuket

If you’re looking to soak in the picturesque beauty of the Andaman Sea, taking a ferry from Phuket to Krabi is a great option. The journey is not only comfortable and well-equipped but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the ocean, making it a memorable experience. Departing regularly from Rassada Pier in Phuket, ferries take about 2 hours to reach Krabi. With air-conditioned cabins, seating areas, and onboard amenities like snacks and drinks, ferries offer a comfortable and relaxing way to travel. Another advantage of taking a ferry is the opportunity to explore the beautiful islands and beaches along the way, with stops at popular destinations such as Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that ferry schedules may be impacted by weather conditions or seasonal changes in demand. It’s recommended to check schedules in advance and book tickets early to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Here’s where you can check the ferry’s timetable from Phuket to Krabi: https://www.phuketferry.com/phuket.html?

4. Private Speedboat Transfer From Phuket To Krabi

Speedboats depart from various locations in Phuket and take around 1-2 hours to reach Krabi. With speeds of up to 50 knots, speedboats provide a thrilling ride through the Andaman Sea, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline. Customize your tour and visit popular attractions and beaches such as Railay Beach and the Four Islands at your own pace. However, keep in mind that the ride can be bumpy and rough, and passengers may get wet from the spray of the sea. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and sun protection to make the most of this unforgettable experience.

5. Speed Boat Join In Transfer Via Kho Yao Yai and Kho Yao Noi

Looking to get from Phuket to Krabi? Consider taking a speed boat join in transfer via Kho Yao Yai and Kho Yao Noi. This method of transportation typically takes 2-3 hours and offers a comfortable level of comfort. The journey starts at Bang Rong, northeast of Phuket and ends in Krabi. The price of a one-way ticket can vary between 200 THB to 400 THB (approximately 9-18 AUD), making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget. Book your ticket now and enjoy a scenic and convenient transfer to Krabi!

Discover the Beauty of Phang Nga and Krabi in One Day : Full Day Boat Trip from Phuket

If you’re short on time and looking to explore Krabi without staying overnight, a full day boat trip from Phuket is the perfect solution! Not only does this option save you the hassle of finding accommodation, but it also allows you to see some of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks in Phang Nga & Krabi in just one day. You’ll get picked up early in the morning and head out to discover both Phang Nga Bay and Krabi islands. Explore the hidden lagoons and caves at Phanak Island, see the iconic James Bond Island, and visit the unique floating village at Koh Panyi. After a delicious lunch over the water, we’ll visit the 2,000-year-old Sea Gypsy cave paintings at Khao Kian and head to the Krabi side of the bay for beautiful beaches, swimming, and snorkeling. Our expert guides will take you to the best spots for an unforgettable day trip. So what are you waiting for? Book your boat tour now and let us show you the wonders of Southern Thailand!

Happy travels await!

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your journey from Phuket to Krabi. By choosing the transportation option that best suits your needs and budget, you can make the most of your time in Thailand and enjoy all that these two beautiful destinations have to offer. If you enjoyed reading this blog, we invite you to explore our other travel articles, such as our guide to the best weekend markets in Phuket and our recommended half-day tours in Phuket. These resources offer valuable insights and tips to help you make the most of your travels in Thailand. Thank you for reading and happy travels!

Koh Tup and Koh Mor - krabi thailand - must visit destination in thailand - phuket sail tours

PHI PHI ISLAND

Island hopping, must see places in krabi thailand.

I want to book this tour “DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF PHANG NGA AND KRABI IN ONE DAY: FULL DAY BOAT TRIP FROM PHUKET” We are 8 adults and 3 children

Please suggest day trip from phuket to krabi

I too want to book this tour

Iam interested in this tour Discover the beauty of phang and krabi in one day full day boat trip from phuket On October 27th myself and my wife is there availability cost, etc

I want to book for 2 persons one day trip in 1st week of march

We would like to do this day tour Phang & Krabi, can you tell me cost for two adults please?

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Plan Your Trip

How to Pick Your Thailand Paradise

March 18, 2024 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

Comparing Phuket vs Krabi is something I’ve been doing subconsciously for at least as long as I’ve lived in Thailand—maybe since I started traveling here. It wasn’t until today, however, that I decided it would be a good idea to put my thoughts into writing.

Over the next dozen or so paragraphs, I’ll differentiate the practical aspects of traveling in these paradises, including topics such as where to stay in Phuket and Krabi’s best restaurants. Additionally, I’ll discuss the more esoteric things that separate Krabi from Phuket, like the number (and types) of other tourists you can expect to encounter, or the aesthetics of different beaches and islands.

Whether you plan to travel directly from Bangkok to Krabi, or incorporate time in Thailand’s tropical south into a larger Thailand itinerary , you’re going to want to keep reading about Krabi, Phuket and the gulf of differences between them.

Phuket vs Krabi: Basic Differences

Phuket is an island— Krabi has islands. Phuket also has islands, of course, to the extent that many of the best islands near Krabi (from popular choices like Koh Phi Phi to more obscure ones like Koh Poda ) are also within day-trip distance of Phuket at least theoretically. If you also keep in mind Phuket is a huge island and is therefore something of a mainland itself, geography doesn’t tend to be a big differentiator between these provinces, at least not for travelers. Krabi or Phuket—which is better? Continue reading to learn!

Visitor Demographics

I was shocked, as I set up the frame for this article, to learn how many people were Googling information about Russian girls in Phuket—this isn’t one of those blogs, don’t worry. One thing I have noticed, however, is that Phuket and Krabi tend to appeal to different visitor demographics. Very large numbers of Russian and Chinese group tourists tend to choose Phuket, while Western backpackers and boutique travelers tend to choose Krabi, assuming they don’t extend their trip and travel from Krabi to Phuket to continue their travels.

Infrastructure

As a major international hub, Phuket is more connected than Krabi, not only to the rest of Thailand and Asia, but to the world. On the other hand, while it’s not uncommon for people to travel from Phuket Airport to Krabi after having booked flights not knowing otherwise, you should definitely try to fly to Krabi directly if it’s is your destination. Neither Krabi nor Phuket is accessible via train; roads are much better in Phuket—it should go without saying that many of the islands of Krabi are only reachable by boat!

Things to Do in Phuket vs Krabi

Phuket vs krabi beaches (and islands).

In general, I’ll just come out and say that the beaches of Krabi are more to my liking than those you find in Phuket, from mainstream ones like Tonsai Bay in the Phi Phi Islands and Railay on the mainland, to the tinier islands only accessible via private long-tail boat tour. It’s in Krabi where you find the “iconic” Thai beach scenery of karst islands rising over impossibly blue water. There is some nice coastal scenery in Phuket, such as Cape Promthep at the southern tip of the island, but unless you take a day trip to the so-called James Bond Island (or others in Phang Nga Bay ), I wouldn’t come to Phuket solely for beaches.

Adventure Tourism in Phuket and Krabi

Among the activities that make it easiest to choose between Phuket or Krabi, adventure tourism is definitely a deciding factor. While you can zip line (as one in example) within the jungles of Phuket island, Krabi’s rock-climbing scene is practically world-famous, which has led to the perception of the province as more conducive to ecotourism. This is even evident when you consider Krabi activities like Sa Morakot “Emerald Pool,” or Wat Tham Suea temple, whose observatory is accessible only via a 1,200-step climb.

Krabi vs Phuket City Life

If you want to party in southern Thailand it’s hard to beat Patong nightlife, which is to say the bars/clubs (and other activities) available on Phuket’s seediest and most crowded beach. On the other hand, drinking and dancing aren’t the only items for city-minded people on island time to consider. Phuket has plenty of shopping malls, while Krabi doesn’t have any notable ones. Oddly, I prefer Krabi Town ‘s ambiance and charm to Phuket’s, even though the latter seems to be more famous.

Hotels in Phuket vs Krabi

Phuket vs krabi luxury hotels.

If you’re a high-end traveler bound for Krabi or Phuket, you’ll have your pick of opulent properties in both provinces. In Krabi I love the exotic Baan Habeebee in Ao Nang , award-winning Rayavadee in Railay and Koh Phi Phi ‘s Zeavola Resort , which makes you feel as if you have this increasingly crowded group of islands to yourself. Phuket luxury hotels likewise run the gamut, from The Westin Siray Bay (which sits along a private stretch of beach), to Xinlor House located right in Phuket Town .

Beach Hotels in Krabi versus Phuket

It’s not a shocking revelation to state that the best hotels in Krabi are on the coast. However, given all the amazing islands Krabi has, it might surprise you that my very favorite beach hotel is located on the mainland— Sunrise Tropical Resort on Railay Beach . Phuket probably has more beach hotels than Krabi, since it has more coastline, though these tend to be properties of the larger and more corporate sort, such as JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, located on Mai Khao Beach .

Phuket vs Krabi Hostels

Whether you’re searching for Railay Beach hostels or are seeking budget accommodation in Phuket Town, budget is not an impediment to exploring either of these provinces. You could base yourself at The Moment Hostel on Krabi’s Ao Nang beach, for example, then use the money you save staying in a dorm to take day trips to nearby islands. Phuket’s Book a Bed , meanwhile, is an upscale “poshtel,” which allows you to leep in the heart of Old Town Phuket , an ideal base both for island hopping as well as inland adventures.

Other FAQ About Visiting Phuket and Krabi

Which is better for honeymoon, phuket or krabi.

Although it depends what you’re looking for, I personally think that Krabi is a better honeymoon choice. While Phuket has more restaurants and other urban creature comforts, Krabi is simply more beautiful. I’ve never been married myself, but I do know a thing or two about romance—Krabi has it in spades, while Phuket largely doesn’t.

Which is better, Koh Samui or Krabi?

I prefer Krabi over Koh Samui because for me, Krabi feels more remote. This is especially the case when staying in Railay—you need a boat to go anywhere! While Samui has great beaches and beautiful viewpoints, you constantly need to travel through dense urbanization, which distracts from what is otherwise a gorgeous, castaway island.

What is so special about Krabi?

Krabi is southern Thailand’s sweet spot. While the towering limestone karsts and crystalline waters make you feel like you’re far away from civilization, the variety and quality of hotels and restaurants allows you to enjoy a full range of creature comforts. I also like the range of destinations you can visit as day or weekend excursions, from peripheral islands like Koh Poda to the Koh Phi Phi archipelago, which is a trip in and of itself.

The Bottom Line

Phuket or Krabi —which is better? Comparing Phuket vs Krabi can seem like an exercise in futility. Although there are fundamental, substantive differences between the two provinces, they appear similar enough on the surface that some travelers see them as interchangeable. I hope that this post has helped you determine whether Krabi or Phuket is right for you, assuming you don’t have time to travel from Phuket to Krabi to see both. If you still need help planning your trip to Thailand, you won’t be shy about seeking my assistance.

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The perfect Thailand itinerary: the best things to do

Hey, travel FAM! Today let’s talk about one of our best discoveries: Thailand! This Thailand itinerary , made for 10 days, is the perfect itinerary to see elephants in the wild, beautiful islands, temples and beaches! We totally fell in love with this country when we went there for the first time. The beauty of the landscapes, not comparable with everything we have seen before, these rocks formations and the clear water, the long tail boats, the jungle. Everything is epic in Thailand! We also had a magical moment that I will never forget when meeting elephants in their natural habitat. Also, do I need to mention that the food is to die for? 10 days eating Pad Thai and green curry is pure happiness for us!

In this perfect Thailand itinerary for 10 days, we will talk about the best places to visit and how to get there. If you are dying to visit Thailand, and you need inspiration and information to organize your trip, this post is for you! 😉 Also, if you want to know more information read our ultimate Thailand travel guide !

The perfect Thailand itinerary: 10 days

For us, it is the perfect itinerary, including what we have done and what we wish we have done if we had time! 1 Arriving in Phuket 2 Elephant sanctuary 3 Temples and Big Buddha 4 and 5 Phi Phi islands 6 Krabi Railey beach 7 Hong island 8 Hiking in Krabi 9 James Bond island 10 Phuket

How to get around in Thailand?

The best way to get around is to take taxis and long-tail boats . You can easily find a taxi in South Thailand and you can negotiate the price. For the long tails boats, the price is fixed but it is not expensive.

You can also rent a scooter , it is really cheap. The roads are nice. But you need to know that the traffic is insane. And it is really easier by taxi for long distances.

Day 1: Arriving in Phuket

Firstly, you will arrive at Phuket international airport. You can reach your hotel by taxi or you can rent a scooter.

Phuket old town

A place that you can visit is Phuket old town . This Sino-Portuguese splendors and funky shops in the most unlikely places will surprise and delight you in the heart of Phuket. Phuket Old Town offers much more than you think, with some excellent restaurants and local sights. The unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture, along with a tangible quaintness, makes for a fascinating and unforgettable afternoon spent sauntering around Phuket’s Old Town.

You can also hike to many many viewpoints on both the east and west coasts of Phuket. These viewpoints are perfect for watching the sunrise as well as sunset views. Everyone goes to Promthep Cape , but it doesn’t make it any less spectacular. There, you’ll get fabulous views over the ocean stretching as far as Phi Phi Island on a good day. Check out Phuket’s other viewpoints, such as the ‘3 Beaches’ hilltop view on the road between Nai Harn and Kata, or sip a cocktail at the After Beach Bar.

Phuket night’s markets

Also, you can visit Phuket night’s markets . Indeed, Phuket has an impressive selection of night markets to choose from. Each one has its own unique charm, but all of them offer interesting souvenirs at low prices. The markets are an excellent place to try local street food and snacks, and some also have street performances and music.

You can also read our post about 10 things to do in Phuket .

Day 2: Visit of an elephant sanctuary

Phuket elephant sanctuary

If you like elephants you need to boycott the circus and elephant riding in Asia! Instead of this, you should definitively visit an elephant sanctuary that is respectful to the elephants! You can spend a half-day or a full day with the elephants. You can feed them with bananas and watermelons it’s really fun! They are adorable and beautiful creatures. Please never ride elephants in Thailand, don’t go to elephant shows at a circus, or see elephant paintings.

There is a dark side to elephant tourism that many people just don’t seem to be aware of. In these places, elephants are chained and mistreated. They are struck to be subject and they collapse during rides because they are exhausted. Elephants are living beings, like us! They feel pain, joy, sadness and love and the lack of freedom! They worth to be well treated and they never should be in captivity.

These elephant sanctuaries rescue elephants mistreated and they offer them a place to be free to be an elephant and not an attraction. If you want to meet elephants, go to a sanctuary, you will help them to buy more elephants and offer to them a better life. The afternoon we have spent there was magical, there are no words to explain how it is to see elephants free, in their natural habitat. If you want to visit an elephant sanctuary, visit Phuket elephant sanctuary . To have more information, read our post about why you should visit an elephant sanctuary .

Note: Be careful before visiting any elephant sanctuary and make your own research. Indeed, several circuses and places where elephants are abused are now boycotted by tourists. So, they are now trying to also create fake sanctuaries that still abusing animals /!\

Day 3: Temples and Big Buddha

Wat Chalong

There are several beautiful Buddhist temples near the Big Buddha. They are close to each other. Here are the Wat Chalong temples. Locals come to pray and tourists come to discover the Buddhist culture. These temples are absolutely incredible and really worth a visit if you are in Phuket! You can park your car easily for free and take the time to visit the temples. It is open from 7 am to 5 pm. The exact location is 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand.

The big Buddha

The Big Buddha is beautiful and is definitively a must to visit in Phuket. This statue on the top of the city has a strong meaning for the locals, it symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith. Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the island’s most important and revered landmarks on the island. The big Buddha sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and, at 45 meters tall. This place is easily reachable via a 6-km road leading from Phuket’s main artery route, it’s a must-visit island destination. You can park your car at the entrance of the site and walk around 10 minutes to the Big Buddha. It is open from 6 am to 7 pm. The exact location is Soi Yot Sane 1, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Day 4 and 5: visit of the Phi Phi islands

The Phi Phi Islands are Thailand’s superstar archipelago, particularly famous for Maya Bay’s role in the 2000 movie The Beach . It is the topic of conversation for travelers all over Thailand. For some, it’s the only reason to touchdown in Phuket. Even if this place is crowded, it is absolutely beautiful.

You need at least 2 days on the Phi Phi islands because it will take you around 2 hours by boat to get there. To get to Phi Phi , there are two options: ferries and speedboats. The ferry is by far the most popular method of reaching the islands and the less expensive one. Ferries take about two hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta. The main departure/arrival port in Phuket is Rassada Pier, located in Phuket Town.

Day 6: Railay beach in Krabi

This Thailand itinerary wouldn’t be complete without talking about the famous Railay beach in Krabi ! Railey beach is a must to see in Krabi. If you want to see typical beaches made of clear water, rock formations and long tails boats, you need to go there! To reach Railey beach, you need first to go from Phuket to Krabi, 2 hours by car. You can take a taxi for 90$. You can try to negotiate but it is the average price. Maybe you can share the taxi with another couple of tourists.

When you have arrived in Krabi, you need first to go to Ao Niang beach . This is the harbor where you will take a long tail boat , you will be at Railey beach in only 15 minutes. The boats are usually shared with 2 or 3 couples.

However, I will not lie to you, it is really crowded from 8:00a m, there are many tourists, but it is absolutely stunning! This place so unique. If you are afraid of the crowd you should try to come really early. Anyway, you will discover a gem! Moreover, the other problem there is this beach is dirty. Certain tourists and even the locals are throwing plastic bottles and other wastes on the beach.

To have more information about Krabi you should read our post about “ visit Krabi in Thailand: the best spots ”

Day 7: Hong island

Koh Hong island is a small island belonging to the province of Krabi. This island is absolutely beautiful. It really looks like Railay beach but if you are going there, you will see the lagoon of Koh Hong.

To visit this island you need to take a long tail boat also from Ao Niang or from some hotels. This is an amazing experience! You can admire the rock formations and the and the clear water during the traject. You will go through Hong Lagoon which is absolutely stunning! Look at the photo at the right! Isn’t it beautiful?

After 25 minutes you will arrive at Hong island. It is a little less crowded than Railay and more natural but there are still many tourists. Of course, the beach is absolutely stunning. You can also snorkel, you will see a lot of colorful fishes! Hong island is a must to see! You need to add it to your Thailand itinerary . especially if you find yourself in Krabi.

Day 8: hiking to the Hang-Nak mountain

The Hang Nak Trail is a hike famous for its breathtaking views from the summit. From the top, you can see all of Krabi’s beaches and panoramic views of the valley below. On the summit, there’s a big rock perched on the edge, on which you can sit, gape at the awe-inspiring beauty, and click a make-the-world-go-green selfie.

Also, the climb, though extremely rewarding, is quite steep. It’s around 3.7 kilometers to the top and would take a fit person around two hours to complete. There are two scenic viewpoints and waterfalls on the way, so even if you are not able to make it to the end of the trail, you can still see some gorgeous views. If you love hiking and an insane point of view, you should add this trail to your Thailand itinerary !

Note: Due to the thick forests, it can get pretty humid here – so make sure you carry at least two bottles of water.

Day 9 Phang Nga Bay James Bond Island

The famous James bond Island also called Phang Nga Bay is unique. A day out here is an unforgettable experience that will definitely get you thinking. A distinctive feature of the bay is the sheer limestone cliffs that jut vertically out of the emerald-green waters. These islands are home to sheltered fauna that are possible to observe on certain tours.

Are you planning to visit Thailand soon?

To conclude, Thailand remains one of our favorites destinations on earth. Even if it is a very touristic destination Thailand has so much to offer! The landscapes are epic, it is the perfect place to meet elephants in the wild, the locals are adorable and the food is insane. Thailand really worths a visit! We hope you like this perfect Thailand itinerary for 10 days 🙂 Let us know in the comments if you have more questions! If you need more information about where to stay? where is the best time to visit Thailand? Read our ultimate Thailand travel guide !

Have a great day! Don’t forget to follow our next adventures on Instagram! @chiarabarrasso @jelafaille

You may also enjoy:

Visit an elephant sanctuary in thailand, 10 things to do in phuket thailand, visit krabi in thailand: the best spots, the ultimate south thailand travel guide.

Please let us know about the boat/ferry prices? Also the places you stayed?

Hello Sanjay, we took the long tail boats it is not expensive. You can easily find the prices and book online 🙂

Please let us know the method of booking

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A Comparison of Day Tours from Phuket to Krabi

Head from Phuket to Krabi and the surrounding area for the ultimate day trip.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

For anyone staying in Phuket, Thailand, a trip to Krabi can easily be done in a day. Krabi is located around 160km from Phuket, with a easy-going vibe, crystal-clear waters and lush jungles. There are a variety of day trips from Phuket to Krabi that can be found, taking in the beautiful islands in and around the area and travelling either in a group or by private speedboat. Here is a comparison of day tours from Phuket to Krabi.

One day Thale Waek Poda Island Chicken Island From Phuket

The day starts with a pick-up service from Phuket City, Patong, Kata or Karon, before grabbing the ferry at Rassada Phuket Pier. Then it’s on to Thale Waek, a natural phenomenon in Krabi, where a sandbar emerges during low tide, connecting a series of islands – it’s like walking in the middle of the sea. The the group visits Koh Poda for lunch before taking a boat trip to Chicken Island. There is a chance for snorkelling with all the equipment needed provided as part of the price. At the end you will take a boat back to Phuket from Nopparat Thara Pier where a car is waiting to take you back to your hotel. From €67.32.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Day Tour from Phuket to 4 Islands in Krabi by Ferry & Speedboat

There is a lot packed into this nine-hour excursion. You’ll be cruising past the iconic limestone karsts of the Andaman Sea as you island-hop around Krabi. Ao Nang, the resort town in southern Thailand’s Krabi Province, is the springboard for the day trip, taking a speedboat to Koh Poda and Chicken Island. The latter, Chicken Island, doesn’t get its name from poultry running around, rather it has a limestone rock formation that just out into the sea like a chicken’s head. After lunch (included), wade to the Tup Islets at low tide and explore Phra Nang Cave, situated on the Railay peninsula just off the coast. The hotel pickup and drop-off are also included in the price. From €50.05.

Book at Viator.com

Hype Yacht : VIP tour Krabi Islands & Phang Nga Bay from Phuket

If you prefer to see Krabi and the surrounding area with a bit more bling, the Hype Yacht certainly adds a bit of sparkle. This glamorous boat wouldn’t look out of place in a Bond movie (or a music video) and comes with all the trimmings. You start with sparkling wine, then carry on to a gourmet lunch in some of Thailand’s most picturesque spots. En route are Phang Nga Bay’s Hong Islands, lagoon, and more, with plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and sunbathing. You also get round-trip transfers to your Phuket hotel. Considering it’s a full day, the price isn’t too bad either. From €226.90.

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11 Best Things to Do in Krabi

Krabi , What to Do?
Last updated 9 March 2024 20 August 2024

What to do in Krabi and around?

Krabi is a province east of Phuket on the Andaman Coast that’s home to some of Thailand’s most spectacular islands and beaches, as well as dramatic limestone mountain landscapes and jungles to explore. The Phi Phi islands are Krabi’s best known attraction, while a host of smaller islands, hidden lagoons, waterfalls, caves, and mangroves beckon visitors in search of adventure and a nature escape. Those looking for a taste of Krabi’s unique southern culture will find it in Krabi Town and its temples, markets, and culinary offerings. Here’s just a sampling of some of the best things to see and do in Krabi and beyond.

1. Railay Beaches and Caves

Found a short boat ride away from Ao Nang Beach, the Railay peninsula is a vision of tropical beauty with white-sand beaches set between towering limestone cliffs. Rock climbing enthusiasts will find their paradise here with numerous routes catering to all skill levels. Among the caves to explore are Diamond Cave and Phra Nang Cave, an eye-catching place filled with phallic offerings to a shrine to the princess goddess, believed to help with fertility. If you prefer to unwind, the soft sands of Phra Nang Beach and West Railay Beach are perfect for relaxing and watching the sunsets. While many visit Railay on a day trip, overnight stays are possible at several hotels and guesthouses on the peninsula, including the spectacular Rayavadee Resort.

2. Koh Poda

Koh Poda is an uninhabited island of picture-perfect tropical scenery with a tall karst surrounded by powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend your day soaking up the sun, enjoying some snorkelling and swimming in the warm azure waters, or relaxing in the shade of a palm or pine tree. Koh Poda is a popular destination for island-hopping boat tours, which often include stops at Tup Island, Chicken Island, Railay Beach, and Phra Nang Beach. It’s also possible to arrange a private long-tail boat trip to Koh Poda. While there’s no accommodation on the island, visitors can find drinks and snacks to buy from a beach vendor. Koh Poda is a national park, with an entry fee of 400 baht charged for foreign visitors.

3. Emerald Pool

Found within Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, Emerald Pool offers a refreshing escape with its emerald-green waters surrounded by lush rainforest. Take a dip in the cool waters, rejuvenating both body and soul amidst the tranquillity of nature. There are two pathways leading to Emerald Pool from the park entrance, one 800 meters in length and the other about 1.4km. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Blue Pool, found about a 15-minute walk away from Emerald Pool, a hidden gem with its striking blue hues caused by the mineral deposits. Emerald Pool is found a little over an hour’s drive away from Ao Nang or Krabi Town. Entry to the park is 400 baht.

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4. Koh Hong

Koh Hong, situated between Koh Yao Noi and Krabi in Phang Nga Bay, is a captivating island known for its hidden lagoons, white sands, and picturesque beauty. With two enclosed beaches and steep cliffs reminiscent of Maya Bay on Phi Phi island, it attracts numerous visitors, especially from Krabi. Accessible by longtail boats or speedboats, Koh Hong is part of a national park, requiring an entrance fee. You could easily spend several hours just relaxing and soaking in the sea at Koh Hong, or explore nearby attractions like Koh Lao Lading on a day trip. Visitors can also climb to the Koh Hong Viewpoint for panoramic views. Although it can get busy, Koh Hong is a must-visit destination for its majestic tropical scenery.

5. Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave)

Wat Tham Seua, also known as the Tiger Cave Temple, is nestled in a jungle setting about 9km north of Krabi Town. The temple grounds feature glittering caves and archaeological treasures, including stone tools and pottery remains. The main attraction is the challenging ascent of over 1,200 steps to the summit, where you can admire panoramic views of the jungle-clad hills and the Andaman Sea. Despite the difficulty, reaching the top offers a rewarding experience amidst the temple’s serene surroundings. Visitors could also join a guided tour to explore the caves and learn about the temple’s history. A good time to visit Wat Tham Seua is early in the morning to enjoy cooler weather and maybe even catch the sunrise.

6. Elephant Sanctuaries

Many visitors to Krabi are keen to see elephants, but it’s crucial to research elephant attractions thoroughly to ensure you’re supporting a place that helps rather than harms the jumbo creatures. Try to avoid places offering elephant rides; reputable sanctuaries prioritise elephant welfare, offering spacious environments for observation and gentle interaction. Gain insight into the elephants’ behaviours and personalities from guides who are concerned about their welfare. By visiting an ethical sanctuary, you’ll contribute to the well-being of these magnificent animals while enjoying an unforgettable experience.

7. Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi islands offer more than just partying, boasting spectacular scenery and activities for all. Explore Phi Phi Leh’s cliffs and the famous white sands of Maya Bay, or dive into the clear waters to explore the area’s colourful marine life. The main island Phi Phi Don is a lively place with several accommodation options, restaurants, shops, and bars to explore. Snorkel at Long Beach or relax with a cold drink and watch the sun go down over the bay on Loh Dalam Beach. Hike up into the hills to the viewpoint, wander the coastal paths for some beach hopping, or hire a paddle board or kayak to explore the beautiful coastline. Koh Phi Phi is accessible year-round by speedboat or ferry from the Krabi mainland. Read more

8. Koh Tup and Koh Mor

Connected by a sandbar that emerges during low tide, Koh Tup and Koh Mor offer a spectacular island escape. These tiny jungle-clad islands linked by a brilliant white sandbar surrounded by clear turquoise sea waters are truly a photographer’s dream. Relax on the sandy beaches, basking in the sun and enjoying the serene surroundings, try some snorkelling, or walk up to Koh Tup’s hilltop to take in the panoramic views. Joining an island-hopping tour or hiring a long-tail boat from Ao Nang, Railay, Klong Muang, or Nopparat Thara are recommended ways to visit these scenic islands for a day trip. It takes about 30 minutes by boat to reach Koh Tup and Koh Mor from Ao Nang.

9. Klong Thom Hot Springs

Klong Thom Hot Springs, found some 70km from Krabi town amidst a rainforest preserve near Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, offer therapeutic benefits attributed to the spring’s mineral-rich waters. Combined with nearby attractions like the Emerald Pool and Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, visitors can enjoy a nature-filled day. The hot springs, formed by natural thermal water and seawater flow, contain essential minerals beneficial for relaxation and relieving muscle and joint pain. With temperatures ranging from 40-50°C, these springs are believed to alleviate ailments like rheumatism and sciatica. Klong Thom Hot Springs are a tranquil escape for visitors looking to heal their bodies and souls. Don’t forget to wear swimmers and bring a towel to fully enjoy an immersive soak.

10. Krabi Town

Krabi Town is the capital of Krabi province and a destination that is sometimes overlooked by visitors in favour of the area’s spectacular islands and beaches. Yet it has its own charms with riverside strolls, local markets, delicious local food, and budget-friendly accommodations to enjoy. For a good view over the town, climb the steps of Wat Kaew Korawaram and discover the murals inside its striking white temple buildings. Krabi Town’s well-kept parks are great spots to relax and soak up the local atmosphere, while its riverside promenade and night market are lively places to explore. Krabi Town’s pier is a launching point for boats to such sights as the Phi Phi islands and Railay beach. With its strategic location and abundance of attractions, Krabi Town serves as an ideal base for exploring the region.

11. Ao Luk Mangroves

Ao Luk mangroves offer a fantastic kayaking adventure with lush jungle scenery to explore. The mangroves are located within Than Bok Khorani National Park in Krabi, an untouched haven of limestone mountains and jungle found about 50km away from Ao Nang Beach. Navigate through the mangrove mazes, encounter unique rock formations, and cool off in the tranquil Ao Thueak lagoon. Wander through park trails, discover waterfalls, explore the caves, and cool down with a swim in the serene Bok Khorani pond. Many choose to visit Ao Luk mangroves as part of a tour, with a local guide to help paddle through narrow channels and spot the diverse wildlife, but it’s also possible to visit on your own. Foreign visitors are charged a national park entry fee.

Popular Tours in Krabi and Around

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Beyond Krabi

Bangkok, Thailand - What to Do in Bangkok

Phuket 101 Blog shares 30 years of Phuket exploration and thousands of photos, tips and secrets for those who love Phuket as much as we do. This blog is written from our real experiences: we tried and visited every place, and we paid for almost everything, which allows us to keep our honest opinions, and we are pretty strict about this. Phuket 101 was born on January 15, 2011.

PHUKET TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget, Itinerary, Things to Do

By continuing to read this article, you agree to double-check with the concerned establishments for the latest updates.

It was almost midnight when I emerged from the airport terminal. There were no more buses, only cabs that had been aggressively calling for passengers. But I couldn’t afford a ride alone. I approached some of my fellow Pinoy travelers from my flight, but they just looked at me as though I was going to scam them. Hahaha. That’s totally understandable. Back home, we’re told and taught not to trust strangers at the airport. Too bad, I desperately needed companions to split taxi fares with.

Phuket was the first stop on my fourth backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, second in Thailand. This time, I’d be visiting cities that I skipped the first time. I wasn’t going to be alone for the whole trip. Two friends would be joining me in Bangkok until Vietnam. I chose to start in Phuket to be alone even just for one stop.

Finally, I spotted two other solo travelers just standing by the taxi line. And just like that, I gained new fleeting friends. This is why I missed solo backpacking so much!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING PHUKET

Is Phuket an ideal destination for solo backpacking? Yes and no, depending on why you’re doing it. If you’re traveling alone so you could meet other like-minded souls, then yes, it could be a great place for you. If you’re embarking on a solitary journey to chase some peace and quiet, hmmm, not quite.

An island off the coast of Southern Thailand, Phuket is the richest province in the country and one of the most visited destinations in the Southeast Asian region. It’s a favorite weekend getaway for domestic tourists, a common stop for cruise ships, and a bridge for Bangkok-bound backpackers from Malaysia and Singapore.

Here are more facts about Phuket.

Language : Thai. Their language can be quite daunting to non-native speakers, especially its lengthy words and tongue-twisting pronunciations, but as with every other language, it only intimidates in the beginning. English isn’t widely spoken, but what the locals lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). THB100 is roughly USD3, EUR 2.6, PHP 163 (as of June 2018). Exchange rates at the airport are bad, so if you have a MasterCard/Visa/Cirrus ATM, just withdraw from one of the many machines inside the terminal. If you don’t have one, just exchange enough to get you to your hotel.
Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
Safety : Phuket is generally safe and tourist-friendly. But scams run aplenty, so always be on guard and vigilant.
Electricity Info : 220V. Power sockets are types A, B, and C. Modern buildings use Type B, but old ones use Types A (two flat prongs) or Type C (two round prongs).

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET

It doesn’t look like it on the map, but Phuket is a big island. Getting from one key attraction to another can take over an hour, so it’s important that you pick the right place to stay. For tourists, there are four major areas with plenty of lodging options:

Patong Beach . The island’s most developed beach. It’s bursting with big resorts, inns, restaurants, bars, and other establishments. If crazy nightlife and watersports are what you’re after, stay here.
Karon Beach . The cove to the immediate south of Patong Beach. It’s lined with resorts across the road, but it’s nowhere near as crazy as Patong.
Kata Beach . Situated south of Karon. There are fewer big resorts here but it has lots of guesthouses. It’s much quieter than the other two.
Phuket Town . The island’s economic center, located in the southeastern part of Phuket. Accommodations here are much cheaper than those along the beaches, which makes it a great option for budget travelers. If you’re after heritage and culture, stay here.

The area where you should stay depends on your interests. Below are the top-rated properties on Agoda.

Top Budget Hotels in Phuket

Alen Guesthouse . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .
Pennapa Chalet . Chalong. Check Rates & Availability .
La Maison Ya Nui Resort Phuket . Naiharn. Check Rates & Availability .
Delish House . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .
The Memory at On On Hotel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .

Top Phuket Hostels and Dorms

Backpack Hostel Kohyaoyai . Koh Yao Yai. Check Rates & Availability .
Shunli Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
Goodnight Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
Hugger Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
Lupta Hostel Patong Hideaway . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more Phuket Hotels

HOW TO GET TO PHUKET

Although relatively small, Phuket International Airport (IATA: HKT) is Thailand’s second biggest hub and second busiest airport. Most flights operating here come from or go to Bangkok and other destinations within ASEAN like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. However, during high season, some airlines mount flights from Australia or Europe.

Bangkok to Phuket

There are three ways to reach Phuket from Bangkok: by plane, by bus, or by train.

By Plane . Low-cost carriers Nok Air and AirAsia offer the cheapest Bangkok-Phuket flights. You can find fares for only around ฿1000, excluding meals, baggage allowance, and other fees. Travel time: 1.5 hours.
By Train . There are no direct trains from Bangkok to Phuket. What you can do is take the train to Surat Thani instead, and from there, travel by bus for the rest of the trip. The train part takes 8 hours. The bus, around 5 hours. I haven’t done this myself, so I can’t say if it’s advisable or not.
By Bus . This I’ve tried. The bus is the cheapest. The downside, it takes 13 to 16 hours, depending on traffic. The public bus (BKS bus) is generally okay, but because it’s a loooong ride, you might want to be more comfortable. Private companies like Phuket Travel, Phuket Central, and Bus Express offer trips for only ฿643 per person. Reservations are possible and recommended in peak season. Reserve a Ticket Here .

Whether you want to travel by train or by bus, you can book via 12Go below. 12Go is bus- and train-booking service specializing in Southeast Asian destinations.

Manila to Phuket

The cheapest flights from Manila to Phuket are operated by JetStar (which entails an 11- to 16-hour stopover in Singapore) and AirAsia (9-hour stopover in Kuala Lumpur). Fares can go as low as P4500, one way, excluding meals and baggage allowance.

A combo Cebu Pacific-Scoot flight is also an option, but it involves a one-day layover in Singapore too. Fares are usually between P5800 (promo) and P9000 (year-round), excluding baggage allowance and meals.

Phuket Airport to Phuket City

Phuket Town (aka เมืองภูเก็ต Mueang Phuket or Phuket City) is a popular base for travelers. You can reach it by bus, minibus, or taxi.

By Bus . Exit the terminal and turn left. You’ll find an AIRPORT BUS sign. Look for orange buses. There’s one bus every hour from 6:30am to 9:30pm. Fare is only ฿90. No need to reserve. Just buy your ticket from the driver. Travel time: 1.5 hours.
By Minivan . This is a slightly faster option. Fare: ฿120.
By Taxi . There are two types of taxis operating at the airport. The limousine taxi, which is pricey, and the regular metered taxi. The ones that aggressively look for passengers from their booths inside the terminal are limousine cabs, so just ignore them. To find a metered cab, exit the terminal and look for a booth with the sign “Taxi Meter.” Fare is between ฿650 and ฿1100. Travel time: 40 minutes.

Phuket Airport to Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach

If you’re in a hotel or resort in Patong, Karon or Kata Beach, here’s how you can get there from the airport.

By Bus . Exit the terminal and turn left. You’ll find an AIRPORT BUS sign. Look for cream-colored buses, which stop at Patong, Kata, and Karon. The first bus leaves the airport at 7:30am. Fares are ฿150 for Patong Beach and ฿200 for Kata or Karon Beach. No need to reserve. Just buy your ticket from the driver.
By Minivan . Fares are ฿180 to Patong Beach and ฿200 to Kata or Karon Beach.
By Taxi . There are two types of taxis operating at the airport. The limousine taxi, which is pricey, and the regular metered taxi. The ones that aggressively look for passengers from their booths inside the terminal are limousine cabs, so just ignore them. To find a metered cab, exit the terminal and look for a booth with the sign “Taxi Meter.” Fares are usually ฿800-1400 for Patong Beach and ฿900-1600 for Karon or Kata Beach. Just split the cost amongst yourselves if you’re a group. Travel time: around 1 hour.

THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET

Because Phuket is an archipelago, most of the activities that you can enjoy in Phuket are beach related: island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and watersports. Phuket is also a great jump off point for islands that belong to Krabi, a nearby province, which is also a burgeoning tourist destination. For example, Phi Phi Island (Ko Phi Phi Le) is actually within Krabi, but is easily accessible from Phuket.

Here are some things you can do in and around Phuket.

Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay

The Phi Phi Islands are some of the most famous beach destinations in Thailand. The archipelago is actually within the territory of nearby Krabi Province, but it can be conveniently reached from Phuket. Karst cliffs rise from clear, turquoise waters, as though ushering visitors in. If you’ve been to El Nido, it’s very much like it. The largest island in the group is Ko Phi Phi Don, while the second largest is Ko Phi Phi Le.

In Ko Phi Phi Le, the most popular attraction is Maya Bay, well-known as the filming location of the Leonardo DiCaprio-starring Holywood blockbuster “The Beach”. It has recently been closed to tourists, but I’m not sure whether or not it has been reopened since.

To get to Ko Phi Phi on your own, the most usual option is to take a ferry. First, you need to make your way to Rassada Pier in Phuket Town. From here, board the ferry to Ko Phi Phi Don. Travel time: 2 hours. One-way fare is ฿500.

If you want to make the most of your time, you can join a group tour instead. This way, you also get to visit multiple islands without worrying about transportation. Some offers online include a speedboat tour with meals. You can also opt to include roundtrip transfers so you can get picked up and dropped off at your hotel.

Here are the usual stops:

Monkey Island
Mosquito Island
Khai Nok Island

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE

James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay Tour

Phang Nga Bay separates Phuket from Krabi. It’s specked with big and small islands, many of which are fringed by limestone cliffs and mangrove forests. Hundreds of tour options are available in Phuket alone, highlighting many magnificent natural and cultural attractions. Tour stops often vary from operator to operator, so make sure you check the inclusions before booking. But here are the usual activities included:

A stop at James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan), nicknamed after the hero of the 007 movie that was filmed here
Kayaking through the caves and hidden lagoons of Panak Island and Hong Island
Seeing the Reclining Buddha at Suwankuha Temple
A stop at Panyee floating village, a muslim fishing community

You can join a BIG BOAT TOUR or a LONG TAIL BOAT TOUR. The big boat is best for those who suffer from sea sickness. You’ll be joining a big group here. On the other hand, the long tail boat is a small traditional boat, which is more intimate.

✅ BIG BOAT TOUR DETAILS HERE

✅ LONG TAIL BOAT TOUR DETAILS HERE

Phuket Old Town Heritage Tour

At first glance, Phuket Town appears to be just your ordinary Thai town, but it’s rich in heritage. You can easily explore it on your own, but it’s better to have a guide who can explain the history of its every street, corner and building.

A usual group tour will take you to the following:

Wat Koh Siray , Buddhist temple that houses a huge reclining Buddha among others. The grounds also allow stunning views of nearby islands.
Phuket Downtown , with stops at key landmarks like the Old Police Station, Chinpracha House, Thai Hua museum and other structures
Market , to try various native and exotic fruits and ingredients

Some tours also include a meal at a restaurant. You can book below.

✅ MORNING TOUR WITH LUNCH RATES

✅ AFTERNOON TOUR WITH DINNER RATES

Thai Cooking Class

It’s something that I love doing when I’m in Thailand. I adore Thai food and every chance I get to learn (while making friends) is something I tremendously enjoy. Most tours usually begin with a visit to the market to gather ingredients. Much of the time will then be spent cooking and preparing various Thai dishes. The class ends with filling your face with what you cooked! Rates already include the prices of the ingredients.

Most classes take half a day. But some companies offer full day classes, at a higher price of course.

These are just two of the many cooking classes we’ve seen online, organized by different operators.

✅ EASY COOKING CLASS

✅ COOKING ACADEMY CLASS

Thai Traditional Costume Rental

You can get into a full traditional Thai costume for a more memorable walk around Phuket. They will dress you up in your chosen set and style your hair. You can take photos on your own or hire a photographer.

✅ RESERVE A COSTUME HERE

Patong Beach

Patong is Phuket’s flagship beach. It is what Kuta Beach is to Bali, and White Beach to Boracay. It is the most popular, most developed, and not surprisingly, most crowded beach in the island. Aside from swimming, sun bathing, and just walking along the shore, you can enjoy other activities like:

Jet ski: ฿15000 per 30 minutes
Water ski: ฿1200 per 15 minutes
Wakeboard: ฿1200 per 15 minutes
Parasailing: ฿1200 per person
Banana Boat: ฿600 per person

A vibrant nightlife also takes over the island, especially Patong Beach. Clubs and bars flank its streets. A visit can leave you culture shocked, if you know what I mean.

Khai Islands Tour

The Khai Islands are composed of three islands: Khai Nai, Khai Nui, and Khai Nok. All three are laced with stunning white beaches and crystal clear, turquoise waters. Snorkeling is also a popular activity here. Located just 10km from the main island of Phuket, it can be reached after 20-30 minutes by speedboat.

Some tours online include tour guide, roundtrip transfers, and entrance fees. Full day tour includes lunch.

✅ CHECK TOUR RATES HERE

Other Attractions

Phuket Fantasea . A fantastic entertainment show that showcases Thailand’s cultural heritage. Check Ticket Rates .
Splash Jungle Waterpark . A water resort theme park filled with Aqua Play Pools, slides, and more. For the entire family! Check Ticket Rates Here .
Bungy Jumping . A fully licensed and safe bungy jump in Phuket. Enjoy a 50m drop! Check Rates Here

SAMPLE PHUKET ITINERARY

Here’s a sample weekend itinerary. In reality, I stayed much longer than a weekend. But if I only had 3 days and 2 nights, here’s how I would have done it.

Note that it assumes you’re staying in Patong and booking your tours online. Feel free to make the necessary adjustments to match your preferences.

Day 1: ARRIVAL, PATONG 01:00pm – Arrival in Phuket 01:30pm – Bus to Patong, ฿150 03:00pm – Check in at hotel 04:00pm – Walk along Patong Beach 06:00pm – Back at hotel to freshen up 07:30pm – Dinner, ฿200 09:00pm – See Patong nightlife

Day 2: JAMES BOND ISLAND & PHANG NGA BAY 07:30am – Phang Nga Bay Tour, ฿1100, Book Here 06:00pm – Back at hotel, rest, freshen up 07:00pm – Dinner, ฿170

Day 3: PHI PHI ISLANDS 07:00am – Early check-out 07:30am – Phi Phi Islands Tour, ฿1600, Book Here 05:30pm – Back at hotel, pick up bags 06:30pm – Bus to airport, ฿150 08:00pm – Flight check-in 09:00pm – Dinner, ฿200 09:55pm – Flight

If you stay in a dorm and spend only ฿400 per night, the above itinerary will set you back around ฿4500 (USD136, EUR118, SGD186, PHP7300) excluding airfare and travel tax.

You can spend much less if you decide to replace the Phang Nga Bay Tour with a DIY Phuket Heritage Tour on Day 2.

Of course, it also depends heavily on your spending habits. It’s always best practice to pad this budget and give it wiggle room so you won’t be strapped for cash just in case something comes up or you decide to try something not on the itinerary.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is phuket safe.

It is, but beware of scams. Plenty of scams plague Phuket, they probably merit a separate, dedicated blog post. But here are some of the most rampant.

Jet-ski rental scam. Their modus operandi is, they rent out a jet ski and then when you return it, they complain that it is damaged. The catch is, the damage has always been there and they’re just trying to get settlement money from you. Same with motorcycles. There are even cases when the motorcycles are stolen by the same owners so they could demand money from the victim. These scams are the main reason why I never tried to rent anything in Phuket. But if you must, take plenty of photos of the unit before you go so you have proof that you’re returning it in the same condition.
Survey or promo scam. Don’t trust easily. Some locals or even foreigners may approach you for many things like quick surveys. Many of these are scams. They will tell you you’ve won something. Don’t fall for it. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
Taxi scams. Some cabs, especially those picking passengers at the airport, will make unnecessary stops. Sometimes at a travel agent, who will tell you that your hotel is closed or fully booked, in a ploy to get you to book another one through them. Some will take you to a jewelry stop, where you will be compelled to purchase overpriced gemstones. Hail a cab at the right places. During my stay, because I got close with the hotel staff, I just asked them to find a tuktuk and they negotiate the fare for me. I never ran into any problem and paid just the right amount.
Tuktuk Scams. Agree on the fare with the tuktuk driver before the trip. Many tuktuk drivers are hustlers. They will charge way more than they should. If you’re a group, they will even claim that what you had agreed on was per person, not per ride. So make sure it’s clear to both parties.

In cases of emergency, call the Tourist Police phone number: 1155.

What is the tipping custom in Phuket?

Tipping is not mandatory in Phuket but it is surely appreciated . When eating at restaurants, just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150 and tell the staff to keep the change. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room.

When is the best time to visit Phuket?

December to April . These months are the driest. Not surprisingly, they also make up the biggest chunk of the island’s high season. January to February is the coolest period, perfect for sightseeing, but it’s also the most crowded.

Temperatures begin to rise and the monsoon kicks in mid-May, lasting until October. August-October is the period that catches the most rainfall, so if you can avoid it, do so. November is when the high season begins again.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 6️⃣ • 2️⃣9️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Clearly explained the different things that are required to be known by any visitor who is going to want to visit Phuket especially the tip regarding staying away from scams in this place is really a useful one. I like the way you have given simplicity in your content convenient for readers to understand and even book the tickets if wanted.

Keep posting such cool posts!

Simply Superb dude.. Great job

Planning a short trip soon, this is really helpful. Salamat

Enjoy! Have a great time in Phuket!

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The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand

Thinking of spending 3 days in Krabi? Welcome! Here’s our in-depth travel guide with all the information you need to plan your Krabi 3 day itinerary. From beautiful beaches, boat trips and amazing snorkelling to incredible views, markets and culture.

The Krabi region has something for everyone! So here’s our Krabi itinerary, including where to stay, where to eat and what to do in Krabi!

Krabi is a wonderful area in South Thailand lying on the coast of the Andaman Sea. Limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, temples and impressive viewpoints surround the area, which makes it the perfect place to visit in Thailand.

We’ve visited Krabi a few times now and the scenery always impresses us! First, we’ll share a few helpful tips on planning your 3 days in Krabi and then we’ll get right into the Krabi itinerary!

In this Krabi itinerary, we’re focusing on Ao Nang and Krabi Town which are part of the Krabi region and we’ll show you what to do in Krabi.

One of the most popular things to do in Krabi is to visit the famous Railay beach ( you can also stay in Railay )! When you search for photos of Thailand online, it’s likely that Krabi and Railay Beach will be all over Google! Yes, it really is a beautiful area!

The Krabi region also stretches out to beautiful islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta with many smaller islands in between. Ao Nang and Krabi Town are both perfect bases for exploring the area on land or on the water!

Check out our 3 Day Koh Lanta Itinerary & 4 Day Phuket Itinerary for more amazing things to do in the Krabi region!

Scooters at a market during our 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Quick Tips for 3 days in Krabi

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

Thailand Currency – Thai Baht (Compare the currency here )
Thailand Power Voltage – Plugs A & C (220 V)
Cash or card – Places in Krabi mainly take cash-only
Simcard – True Move at 7/11

Here’s a list of things you can check before your trip to the Thai islands!

Check for any public holidays in Thailand ( check here )!
Book your flights ( check prices here! )
Book your accommodation ( book here for hotels & here for hostels )!
Planning the rest of your trip? Here’s our 2 Week South Thailand Itinerary !
Also, check out 11 + Thailand Travel Tips !

Where to stay in Krabi – J Mansion in Ao Nang! We loved it here and it’s in the best location.

Travel Insurance – SafetyWing is a monthly-rolling travel and medical insurance to help you stay covered during your 3 days in Krabi or anywhere in the world! – Find out more here!

Best time to visit Krabi

The best time to visit Krabi is from November to March which is the dry season in Thailand. Although Krabi has a tropical climate, March to May is usually the hottest time of year before the wet season arrives from May to October .

It’s definitely possible to visit Krabi any time of year, just be prepared for rain at any time! Sometimes boat trips can be affected by stormy weather

How to get to Krabi

There are multiple ways to get to Krabi depending on where you’re arriving from. Krabi has an international airport which is the perfect entry into Thailand from countries around Asia. Krabi can also be reached by bus or ferry! Use 12.Go to book your tickets in advance and chck prices.

Flight – Wherever you’re coming from in the world, you can reach Krabi by flight, with layovers in Bangkok or nearby countries. The airport is closer to Krabi Town and we used a Grab to get to the airport. Check flights on Skyscanner!

Bus – One of the most budget-friendly ways to arrive in Krabi is by bus ! When arriving by bus, the terminal is outside of Krabi town, we grabbed a shared taxi that waits for people to fill up. The price is per person and it leaves when there are enough people inside. Bus trips can be booked with any local travel agent and the prices are usually the same.

Ferry – If you’re staying in Ao Nang, arriving by ferry is perfect! Once you arrive at Nopparat Thara Pier, there will be many local taxis waiting to take you to your accommodation. It’s possible to negotiate a price or pair up with other travellers. Or book your ferry on 12.Go !

How to get from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi – From Tonsai Pier in Koh Phi Phi, take a ferry over to Nopparat Thara Pier in Krabi (Ao Nang). It usually takes around 2 hours with a few departures a day.

How to get from Bangkok to Krabi – The best way to get from Bangkok to Krabi is by plane which takes around 1.5 hours and prices can vary. Another way is to take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then catch a bus to Krabi or you can catch a night bus all the way to Krabi from Bangkok.

How to get from Phuket to Krabi – The best way to get to Krabi from Phuket is by ferry or bus. The bus is a more budget-friendly option and it only takes 3 hours compared to the 2-hour ferry.

Also, check out our 3 Day Bangkok Itinerary if you’re adventuring up to the capital!

How to get around Krabi

The region of Krabi is huge! There are different ways to get around Krabi to each location.

Renting a scooter : We rented a scooter from Ao Nang on our 3 day Krabi itinerary to drive amongst the beautiful limestone cliffs and visit Krabi Town

Taxis & Songthaews : Krabi has a lot of choices when it comes to taxis and Grab also works here. Songthaews are usually found in Ao Nang around the pier and many local companies offer their own taxi services. You won’t be stuck trying to get around Krabi.

Longtail boats: These are the only way to get to Railay Beach and other small islands around Krabi.

Walking: Although there are some sights far away from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, both places are very walkable and walking is the best way to visit the markets, shops and restaurants.

Moving onto our 3 days in Krabi itinerary! Here’s our recommended plan for your trip and a few alternatives along the way. It’s possible to base yourself in Ao Nang or Krabi Town for this Krabi 3 day itinerary and mix the days up depending on the weather!

Day 1 – Ao Nang & Railay Beach

On day 1 of your Krabi itinerary, we’ll show you how to explore the lovely coastal town of Ao Nang.

Arriving in Ao Nang

When most travellers talk about Krabi, they’re usually referring to Ao Nang and the gorgeous islands and beaches in the area. If you only have 3 days in Krabi and enjoy some nightlife, we recommend basing yourself in Ao Nang.

Ao Nang has changed over the years due to tourism. There are small areas within the markets that feel like Patong (in Phuket), with many bars, music and entertainment. There are a few fast-food chains that made it here amongst all the other Thai and international food.

It may not be the most glamorous town in Thailand but it’s the gateway to the most beautiful region and that’s what we’ll show you in this Krabi 3 day itinerary.

If you’re staying in Krabi Town, you can reach Ao Nang by taxi, songthaew or renting a scooter. The journey only takes 30 minutes so you can visit multiple times on your trip.

Wherever you’re staying, drop off your bags and head to Ao Nang Beach to look for a small hut where you can buy tickets to Railay Beach. On GoogleMaps, it’s called – Ao Nang Longtail Boat Service Club .

Visit Railay Beach

A trip to Railay Beach has to be at the top of your list when spending 3 days in Krabi. It’s one of the most picturesque places in Thailand and the scenery will leave you speechless!

The best way to get to Ao Nang Beach is by longtail boat as the limestone cliffs get in the way of driving to the area. Head to Ao Nang Longtail Boat Service Club to buy your roundtrip tickets (฿200 return) and you’ll soon be on your way to the beautiful beach.

The journey takes around 15 minutes by longtail boat, however, the boats will wait until there are enough passengers on board. Luckily Railay is popular to visit so the wait shouldn’t be more than 20 minutes.

Once you arrive, there are a few things to do in the area! It’s not just one beach and there’s even accommodation if you’re ever interested to stay the night.

Phra Nang Beach – Perfect crystal clear water and views of the limestone rocks out at sea.
Railay Beach – The main beach connects to the central strip of restaurants.
Phra Nang Beach – The most beautiful beach!
Rock Climbing – Krabi is one of the best places to go rock climbing!
Phra Nang Nai Cave – An impressive cave but a small viewing area (a fee to enter)

You can also join a Krabi 7 Islands Sunset Tour to explore more incredible islands in the region.

There’s plenty of cafes, restaurants and little shops here to browse. We grabbed some food at Govinda’s At The Beach and picked up shakes from nearby stalls. When you’re ready to go back to Ao Nang, wait for the next longtail boat on Railay Beach and use your return ticket.

Spending a while in Krabi? Think about Volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare: Thailand !

Spend the evening in Ao Nang

After spending the day in the postcard-worthy region of Thailand, explore the craziness of Ao Nang.

Ao Nang is filled with restaurants and shops along the seafront and down the main road. It’s definitely a busy area and has great nightlife too! Check out the Ao Nang Night Market and have an evening walk around the area.

Day 2 – Krabi Town, Temples & Viewpoints

After enjoying the beaches and coast, it’s time for a mainland adventure on this 3 day Krabi itinerary. We highly recommend renting a scooter to explore the region on this day, however, it’s totally possible by taxi. Ask your accommodation to arrange transport for you or join a group tour to take you around!

Hike up to Tiger Cave Temple

The first place to visit is the impressive Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea). We’ll warn you now, that it’s not a short hike but the views are amazing! It’s best to visit in the early morning before the heat of the day makes the walk 10 times harder.

The Tiger Cave Temple sits on the peak of a limestone rock with a hike of 1260 steps and these steps range in size! At the top is a beautiful golden Buddha and panoramic views of Krabi. There’s also fresh water at the top so make sure you carry your reusable water bottle!

The step counter is marked every now and again on the poles leading up to the top and it’s honestly quite a tough climb if you’re not a hiker. Don’t be afraid of taking breaks!

There’s also a few monkeys to spot along the way but there are signs everywhere warning you to look after your belongings, especially if you have food.

On the ground, you can learn about the Tiger Cave Temple. It was once named after a monk when he witnessed tigers roaming around the cave during meditation. The tigers disappeared but it still holds its name Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple). Also, visit the Bodhisattva Guanyin Pagoda.

The Tiger Cave Temple is located just outside of Krabi Town and it’s a popular destination for travellers, so there will be taxis going there. We rented a scooter from Ao Nang and the drive is gorgeous! There’s a huge car park with restaurants and refreshments.

➤ Join a group tour to explore the Tiger Cave Temple and the Emerald Pool!

Alternatively, if you want a less demanding hike, check out Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint on the east side of Krabi.

Explore Krabi Town

Krabi Town is the heart of the Krabi province and it’s often overlooked by travellers only passing through to the Tiger Cave Temple. There are a few things worth visiting in the town on your Krabi 3 day itinerary and the night markets are better than Ao Nang!

Wat Kaew Korawaram

Start with gazing at the beautiful Buddhist temple – Wat Kaeo Korawaram. The temple is hard to miss when wandering around Krabi Town as there are not many other big temples in the area.

There’s a long staircase with golden snakes wrapped around the rails leading up to the temple. It’s worth a visit on your 3 day Krabi itinerary if you’re in the area.

Spending 3 days in Krabi exploring Wat Kaew Korawaram

More things to do in Krabi Town

Krabi Walking Street – the main area in Krabi Town
The Mud Crabs Sculpture – walk along the river and find the crab statue!
Krabi Urban Forest – walk amongst the mangroves near Krabi Town!
Shopping Mall – a small shopping mall with air con!
Krabi Night Market – indulge in Thai street food!

The best way to end your evening in Krabi Town is to wander around the night markets. Our favourite Thai street food is a classic pad Thai and mango sticky rice (we don’t eat meat!) but there are so many other amazing Thai dishes to try!

Krabi Night Market, 3 Day Krabi Itinerary

Still planning your trip to Thailand? Here’s our 1 month Thailand itinerary !

Day 3 – Hot Springs & Relaxing

On the last day of your 3 day Krabi itinerary, take the opportunity to visit more natural wonders in the Krabi region. Both of these places are located in east Krabi about 1 hour away, so you’ll need transportation or a taxi to reach them.

Relax in the Krabi Hot Springs

Start your day with a visit to Krabi Hot Springs. It’s best to visit in the early morning for cooler air and quieter pools. Rent a scooter for the day or find to take you.

The natural hot spring is quite small and due to the number of visitors from both locals and tourists, another pool was built with the same water to accommodate more people! The hot spring will feel the same, but the real natural one is surrounded by trees.

There is a ฿200 entry fee for the Krabi Hot Springs, but it’s totally worth visiting on your 3 days in Krabi. Here’s the location for Krabi Hot Springs and there are some food options here too.

Relaxing in Krabi Hot Springs on a 3 day Krabi itinerary

Take a dip in Emerald Pool

A short drive around the corner from the hot springs is Emerald Pool which is absolutely beautiful! The minerals make the water turn a lovely shade of emerald and it’s a natural beauty to see! It’s even better when the sun is shining!

Located in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park , it’s a lovely walk through the jungle to reach Emerald Pool which is something different on your 3 days in Krabi. You can also bathe in the pools, although it can sometimes get busy!

There’s another ฿200 entrance fee, so if you’re on a budget you may want to choose one of these. Although it’s quite a drive out here to only visit one!

Check out our Southeast Asia budget guide to plan your trip to Thailand with our travel costs!

Watch the Sunset at Ao Nang Beach

The best way to end your 3 days in Krabi is with a sunset on the beach. Finish your trip in Ao Nang and browse around the many shops or just pick a bar and chill.

We stayed in J Mansion on one of our trips to Ao Nang and they have an amazing view from the roof!

More days on your Krabi Itinerary?

A day trip to Phi Phi Islands – if you’re only based in Krabi, take a day to visit Koh Phi Phi
Hike Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint – in Hat Noppharat Thara National Park (Dragon Crest Mountain)
Shell Cemetery – a natural wonder on the coast of Krabi (200 baht entry fee)
Rock Climbing – Krabi is one of the best places to rock climb with countless cliffs!

Planning on visiting more islands in Thailand? Here’s our 2-week South Thailand itinerary !

Where to stay in Krabi

The best area to stay for your 3 days in Krabi is Ao Nang or Krabi Town . Both are the perfect base to explore the region with great options for food.

Ao Nang definitely has more accommodation options as it’s more touristy by the beach and you’ll find more nightlife here too. We’ve stayed in Ao Nang three times and Krabi Town once and would recommend Ao Nang if you want a little more entertainment in the evening!

Krabi Hotels, Hostels & Guesthouses

J Mansion $ ( Ao Nang ) – We highly recommend staying here on your 3 days in Krabi, great location, great prices and the staff are so helpful! – Find here on Booking.com !

The Krabi Forest Homestay $ ( Ao Nang ) – Another great spot in Ao Nang, closer to the beach and very lovely bungalows – Find here on Booking.com !

Avatar Railay $$ (Railay) – a beautiful resort hotel to stay at for a night or two in Railay – Find here on Booking.com !

We stayed at OYO 1118 KL boutique Hotel during our time in Krabi Town, but sadly it’s no longer taking bookings!

Best Restaurants in Krabi

There are many restaurants in Krabi serving Thai and international food. Ao Nang is more catered for tourism with many different cuisines, including fast food chains. Krabi Town has lovely markets and there’s even a vegetarian stall!

Plant-Iran $$$ (Ao Nang) – Perfect vegan food in Krabi, it’s definitely a bit pricier!
Govinda’s At The Beach $ (Railay) – The best spot in Railay for beach food & shakes!
Bombay Palace Indian Restaurant $$ (Ao Nang) – A touch of South India in South Thailand!
Chalita Cafe & Restaurant $$ (Krabi Town) – Delicious Thai food!
Krabi Town Night Market (Thai)

Also check out our Best Vegan Restaurants in Phuket – Vegan Food Guide in Thailand !

3 Day Krabi Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1 – Ao Nang & Railay Beach / Day 2 – Tiger Cave Temple & Krabi Town / Day 3 – Hot Springs & Ao Nang Beach

How many days to spend in Krabi

We recommend spending at least 2 days in Krabi to visit Railay Beach with a quick visit to Krabi Town. On our first trip to Krabi, we had to extend our time there because we couldn’t fit everything in on one day. One day in Krabi is the bare minimum to see Railay Beach and is probably best done on a day trip.

With 3 days in Krabi, you can explore the best highlights in the area with time to relax at the beaches and hike up to amazing viewpoints.

What to do with 1 night in Krabi?

If you only have 1 night in Krabi, we recommend staying in Ao Nang and taking a quick boat trip to Railay Beach. It’s honestly one of the most beautiful spots in Krabi and it’s really easy to get to. The airport is only 30 minutes away from Ao Nang and you can even stop at Krabi Town on the way!

What to pack for 3 days in Krabi?

Krabi has tropical weather so a swimming costume is essential! We recommend packing clothes for hot weather including sandals and maybe a snorkel!

Check out our guide on how we pack for Southeast Asia using a 40L backpack each! We’ve written a full packing list full of tips.

Here are a few travel essentials we enjoy using:

International Worldwide Travel Adaptor – The best adaptor when visiting multiple countries.
Amazon Packing Cubes – The easiest way to pack your bag!
Sawyer Mini Water Filter – Save plastic and use a water filter on your Krabi itinerary!
Stainless Steel Water Bottle – The ultimate travel item is a reusable water bottle.
Waterproof Bag 20L with Waterproof Phone Case – Keep your valuables safe and dry on boat trips!
Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – The best small and lightweight tripod to take photos of yourself independently. We have a Joby GorillaPod and pair it with our Sony A6000 .

Where to go after Krabi?

Krabi is the perfect location to explore other islands in South Thailand. We highly recommend checking out our 2 week South Thailand Itinerary as we mention some of the amazing islands you can discover.

As Krabi has an international airport, you can even catch flights to other areas of Thailand, Malaysia or Singapore.

We spent 2 months volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare in Koh Lanta, which is apart of the Krabi region. If you have some spare time, this is perfect to do on your Thailand trip!

Is Krabi worth visiting?

Yes! Krabi is one of the easiest destinations to visit in Thailand, along with Phuket, Bangkok and Chiang Mai. It’s truly a beautiful area and really shows off the scenery of Thailand.

There’s plenty of things to do in Krabi to spend 3 days or more. We’ve visited Krabi a few times already including the surrounding area and we would stay again on another Thai islands trip.

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! – SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your Krabi itinerary and anywhere in the world.

Check out our other Thailand Posts :

The Best 2 week South Thailand Itinerary
3 Day Koh Samui Itinerary: The Best Koh Samui Guide
3 Day Koh Tao Itinerary: Best Things To Do
The Best 4 Day Phuket Itinerary: What To Do
3 Day Koh Lanta Itinerary: Best Things To Do
11+ Best Thailand Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand
Top 8 Vegan Restaurants in Koh Samui, Thailand
Ultimate 1 Month Thailand Itinerary: Best Places to Visit
Or browse our travel blog for more inspiration!

That’s the end of our The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand! Have a great trip to Krabi and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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This is just so amazing as i was just planning a surprise trip for someone to Krabi. I love this post!

Amazing! I hope you have a great time in Krabi 🙂

Overview – Phuket Vs Krabi

Geography: Both these islands are located in southern Thailand. While Phuket island is spread over 543 sq KM with 30 small islands, Krabi covers a whopping 4708 sq KM divided among 80 pet islands. Terrain: Phuket is all about mountains and beaches whereas Krabi has got mangrove forests added to its kitty. Limestone cliffs are added attractions in Krabi. Climate: Both the places have a tropical monsoon climate, Krabi gets more rainfall than Phuket. Best time to visit: Wondering what is the best time to visit Krabi and Phuket ? Phuket is good to go from December to March whereas Krabi welcomes more of its tourists between October to April. Annual Travellers: Phuket was expecting 7.4 million tourists by the end of 2015 while Krabi hopes for 3 million. Large area and fewer visitors! How to reach: Take a connecting flight to either Krabi or Phuket from Bangkok. Phuket has its Phuket International Airport while Krabi has got its domestic Krabi Airport. Approximate time to reach both the destinations is 1.5 hours. Average stay: Phuket is relatively expensive as an average hotel stay for 2 people in a 3 or 4-star hotel costs around 10000 THB. Krabi, for the same costs around 5000 THB. Places to stay: If you want a more sophisticated option to stay, then obviously Phuket is better. You will find high-end 3 to 5 star luxury resorts in Phuket . Krabi is more appropriate as a honeymoon destination since it is less popular. So, you will have some extent of privacy and isolation amidst nature. There is not much difference in terms of cost of living. Tourist attractions: Well, there is no doubt that both these places have a myriad of attractions to visit. When we are comparing Krabi vs Phuket , both have unique propositions. While Phuket is popular for historical and religious sites, Krabi offers natural attractions like the iconic Emerald Pool, national parks in Krabi , and pristine coastlines. If you are after cultural experience, Phuket is the place to be.

Must Read: 45 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Krabi For A Relaxing Thai Vacation

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Attractions: Krabi Vs Phuket

When it comes to a diverse number of things to do in Thailand , Phuket sweeps it away in any Krabi or Phuket comparison sheet. Again it all comes down to the kind of experiences you are looking forward to from your holiday. While Phuket is more happening, Krabi is a paradise for nature and isolation lovers.

In a Phuket and Krabi comparison, Phuket scores better with its helicopter rides provided by Skydance Aero and other adventure activities in Phuket over the beaches of Andaman Sea. Here is the list of the best places to visit in Phuket. Take a look!

Helicopter Ride – One of the most famous places to visit in Phuket is the site where you can hop on a helicopter and enjoy the picturesque view of the whole city from high above.
Phuket Aquarium – One of the other major attractions in Phuket is its underwater aquarium. Recently renovated, this aquarium hosts thousands of colourful, tropical and exotic marine creatures. This aquarium is a hot cake among the travelers who have not seen the marine life so up close.
Ban Teelanka – Visit the Upside Down House at Ban Teelanka and get ready to have a blast on your vacation. You can play games here in the escape game room and solve the garden maze as well.

Suggested Read: 25 Best Things To Do In Phuket That You Must Not Miss On Your Vacation

The nature safaris in the forests of Krabi are the most chosen options. The hot springs at Klong Thom, Thung Teao Forest National Park, Susan Hoi (shell cemetery) and the street markets are the other major attractions in Krabi. So, if you are comparing Krabi vs Phuket in terms of nature and wildlife experiences, Krabi wins hands-down. Check out the list of best places to visit in Krabi!

Khao Lak – Located in the Takua Pa district, Khao Lak is the best spot for those who are crazy about nature safari. Khao Lak is known for its gorgeous beaches, an eminent museum, and its mesmerizing surroundings.

Klong Thom Hot Spring – Get ready to relax your body and soul at the Klong Thom Hot Spring as it is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Krabi. You can take a dip in the hot spring waters and spend some time with nature.

Thung Teao Forest National Park – Another famous tourist attraction in Krabi, Thung Teao Forest National Park is perfect for all wildlife lovers. You can visit the Emerald pool in this national park or just walk around and have a look at the colorful flowers and stunning bird species.

Food Options In Krabi And Phuket

Any Phuket or Krabi match would be incomplete without a listing of mouth watering delicacies that both the islands have to offer. Is Phuket better or Krabi in terms of food experience? Well, here is your answer.

Phuket: Sophisticated Dining Experience

Phuket takes a lead when it comes to fine-dining establishments. The restaurants in Phuket have classier and more sophisticated atmosphere. It is a food lover’s paradise where international cuisines are served. Variants of cold coffee on the street side stalls are worth trying! There are many Indian restaurants in Phuket to satiate your desi taste buds.

Best restaurants in Phuket: Mom Tri’s Kitchen, Black Ginger, La Gritta Italian Restaurant, Dedos Restaurant, Kan Eang@Pier.|

Suggested Read: 5 Best Zoos In Phuket You Must Explore On Your Trip To Thailand

Krabi: Rustic & Relaxed Shacks

Even though Krabi lacks sophistication, it makes up with intimate beach shacks from where you can enjoy pristine views of the ocean along with your food. It serves authentic Thai cuisine and is a seafood lover’s paradise. There is a fair share of Indian restaurants in Krabi as well. Located near one of the best fishing ports in Thailand, Krabi offers exquisite Thai delicacies. Laem Sak seafood, Thara Kitchen and Ban Lay Thai Kitchen are some of the best restaurant options to try.

Best restaurants in Krabi: Gecko Cabane, Jenna’s Bistro & Wine, Krua Thara, Diver’s Inn Steakhouse, The Grotto

Suggested Read: You Must Try Krabi Snorkeling At Least Once Before You Die

Things To Do: Krabi Vs Phuket

Which is better Phuket or Krabi when it comes to adventure? With less population density and more forest areas, for a nature lover & wilderness enthusiast, the answer to “Phuket or Krabi which is better” would definitely be Krabi. Again, Krabi offers adventurous experiences that involves rendezvous with nature while Phuket has a little bit of all.

Phuket: Ziplining & More

Phuket’s major attraction is the Flying Hanuman at Kathu. A zip line through the forests of Phuket with a blend of multiple adventures, Flying Hanuman costs around 2300 THB to 3500 THB. Elephant trekking, ATV Tours, rafting, Canoeing in Phuket , Scuba and island hopping from Koh Phi Phi to Bond Island are other must-try adventures.

Suggested Read: 20 Romantic Things To Do In Phuket For An Enchanting Beach Vacay With Your Loved One!

Krabi: Tree-top Adventures, Fishing & Quad Biking

When deciding upon Phuket or Krabi for family holiday , adventures play a part too. Krabi scores more than Phuket when it comes to adventuring around. If you do not go for the Tree Top Adventures at Ao Luek, you have not completed the ‘adventures to do in this life’ checklist.

Fishing in the Andaman Sea is also a lifetime experience to have. Besides all of these, Krabi offers quad biking, go-karting, bungee jumping from its limestone cliffs and snorkeling at the 4 islands of Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tub, Koh Mor. There is fair share of water sports in Krabi as well that you can try during your stay.

Suggested Read: 10 Indian Restaurants In Krabi: Get The Taste Of Desi Zayaka In Thailand In 2021!

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Bangkok. Phi Phi. Krabi. Why should guys have all the fun?

Nightlife: Krabi Vs Phuket

Well, comparing Krabi vs Phuket in terms of nightlife, Phuket takes a lead here. Since Krabi has strict enforcement laws on the beaches, the wildlife is not as crazy as you will ex perience in Phuket. You can go full throttle in Phuket and party all night. Krabi makes it up by offering live music sessions and karaoke sessions in the bars by the beaches.

Phuket: Cabaret Shows, Gay Bars & All Night Clubs

If we talk about nightlife in Krabi vs Phuket , Phuket scores above Krabi when it comes to a live wire nightlife. With its animated Gay bars in Paradise Complex, Phuket’s nightlife is sensational. Ladyboy Cabaret Shows at Phuket Simon Cabaret, Go-Go Bars in Patong beach and all nightclubs and discs never allow this Thai paradise to sleep. The beaches in Phuket are quite lively all night!

Best nightlife spots in Phuket: Soi Bangla road, White Room Nightclub, Phuket FantaSea, Siam Niramit Phuket

Krabi: Karaoke Bars & Beach Parties

So, the question arises, is Krabi better than Phuket ? Though this beautiful retreat is not loaded with fun places for the night crawlers yet Krabi’s nightlife has been catching up to that of Phuket’s. It has got some good Karaoke bars on Maharat road. The revelers enjoy all night beach parties.

Best nightlife spots in Krabi: Boogie Bar, Ao Nang Center Point, Tew Lay Bar, Sunset Bar, Fu Bar

Further Read: 12 Exciting Water Sports In Phuket You Should Not Miss

The debate of Krabi vs Phuket is never-ending. It all comes down to the kind of experience you are after. By now, when we have cleared out a lot for you, plan your ultimate Thai paradise experience according to your choices and let us know which went better. Book your trip to Thailand with TravelTriangle and for a visual understanding, do scroll down for the info-graphic.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

This infographic tells you all you need to know about Krabi vs Phuket comparison

Frequently Asked Questions About Krabi Vs Phuket

Are Krabi and Phuket the same?

Krabi and Phuket are two different provinces that are now the most popular places to visit in Thailand.

How far is Krabi from Phuket?

By land, Krabi and Phuket are 180 kilometers apart and by sea, the distance is three times shorter. Moreover, you will find regular buses running in between these places but there is no railway connectivity as Phuket is a separate island.

How long is a boat ride from Phuket to Krabi?

There is only one ferry that offers its services between Phuket and Krabi which is provided by Phi Phi Cruiser. The services are rendered 7 times a week and it takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to cover the distance.

Which is better Phuket or Krabi?

If you are looking for a well-developed place with all the facilities then Phuket is the place to be. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy the bucolic nature and laze around in the natural setting then Krabi is the best choice.

Is Krabi worth visiting?

There is no doubt that Krabi is a place worth visiting as it offers a beautiful setting amidst nature where you can treat your eyes with the view of blue waters and tall green trees.

How many days do you need in Krabi?

For Island Hopping in Krabi, two days will be enough whether traveling with friends, family or alone.

Is grab available in Krabi?

You will find no cab services in Krabi so have to get around via buses and motorcycle taxis.

How many days in Phuket is enough?

If you want to have the best look of Phuket then make sure that you spend at least 4 days but if you are on a tight schedule then 2-3 days are enough.

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An avid traveler, photographer, and writer, he can be spotted in a remote Indian destination twice every month. A true believer of “live like there’s no tomorrow”, Pushkar is out to strike all places off his bucket list before others have even made one!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Krabi

INSIDER KRABI ITINERARY (2024)

This Krabi itinerary will explore the insurmountable serenity and beauty of Krabi, Thailand, has captured many hearts worldwide, and it’s easy to see why! Everyone who visits this enchanting part of the world leaves with unforgettable memories, a relaxed spirit, and a big smile on their face.

Craggy seaside cliffs draped with lush green vegetation, fresh salty air, turquoise ocean water, exquisite marine life, and exotic palm trees- Krabi is a true island paradise! To top off the magic, Krabi is also a spiritual and rejuvenating place where one can let go and breathe, offering more than just aesthetic value.

With our complete Krabi Itinerary, you will have a trip that will stay with you for a lifetime, with every moment overflowing with fun, adventure, island vibes, and thrilling new encounters that will be reminisced about for years to come.

We’ve compiled everything that you need to know, so sit back, relax and leave the planning to us!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Best Time To Visit Krabi

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When planning a trip to Krabi (or any trip to Thailand ), the weather plays a huge factor. Krabi’s weather is typically hot days and cool breezy evenings, and the island doesn’t have many months of heavy rainfall. Winter is from January to March and during that time the temperatures still maintain a pleasant sunny warmth, making it a surprisingly great time to visit!

The best time to visit Krabi is between November and March. This is when the weather is ideal, rainfall is low, and the sun out! You can enjoy fun watersports and laze on the beach without the threat of heavy rainfall and winds.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Monsoon season is during Krabi’s summer, between July to October. Be cautious of the ocean during this time, and be sure to book your flights with the heavy wind and rainfall in mind!

If you want to visit when there aren’t as many tourists as there are during peak season, then April to June would be the best time. You may encounter more rainy days, but the blissful days of ideal island sunshine are sure to make up for it! It also seems like a small price to pay to have a more private experience.

So, if you want to know when to visit Krabi, keep all of this in mind, and choose the time that suits you and your individual travel needs best!

Finding where to stay in Krabi has never been easier – there’s heaps of accommodation available! In this Krabi itinerary, we share our top picks for the best neighborhoods.

Ao Nang is Krabi’s tourist mecca, known mostly for owning astounding Andaman sea beachscapes and white-sand shores. This resort town is also the main docking point for boats heading out to the surrounding islands of Krabi, namely – Koh Poda, Ko Hong and Ko Gai (Chicken Island). This area offers beauty and convenience! It’s also a prime spot to catch a famous Krabi island hopping adventure tour!

Railay Beach is a popular spot for rock climbers. It’s entirely surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful cliffs that provide amazing ocean views from the top. The craggy cliffs are not only great for climbers but also allow this part of Krabi to be more private. It’s only accessible via boat, and although you will be sacrificing convenience, you will be gaining seclusion and privacy.

To indulge in Krabi’s diverse culture and history, a stay in Krabi Town is a must. The town is Krabi’s original market town and provides quite a contrast to the lazy surrounding beach towns. There is no better place to truly experience the authenticity of Thai culture and hospitality!

The main river is a hub for fishers, and is a great spot to catch a water taxi! Not only is it an idyllic Thai city, but it’s also incredibly beautiful boasting amazing architecture and a lot of Krabi’s top tourist attractions. You can also catch the elaborate Illumanorah Show at Paka Show Park.

For a more off-the-beaten-track approach, Ton Sai Bay is the place to be! Here, there are no roads or pavement, but rather footpaths and hidden pathways. This charming part of Krabi is the main arrival port for the Phi Phi islands, and during the day there is always a lot going on! At night, you can find upbeat clubs and enjoy a thriving party scene.

If you’re looking for a more memorable and environmentally-friendly place to stay, consider checking out an Eco-resort in Krabi .

Best Hostel in Krabi – Reset Hostel

Reset hostel in Krabi is an awesome spot where you can feel at home and settle in at the end of a day of adventure! The suites are clean, have en-suites, and the beds are comfortable. Reset Hostel is run by locals who care deeply for those who stay with them, and you can easily feel it in the way you are treated like family. Enjoy laid back beachside accommodation with comfort, style, and friendliness thrown in.

For more of Krabi’s best hostels, check out our epic backpacker accommodation guide!

Best Airbnb in Krabi – Cosy & Comfortable Furnished Nature House

Cosy and Comfortable Furnished Nature House

This resort-style furnished house is ideal for nature lovers looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle. Located in the middle of Thai herb gardens, enjoy a peaceful and safe stay in Ao Nang just a ten minutes ride away from all the shops, restaurants and nightlife. The amenities provided are as good as hotels and include WiFi, a kitchen and free parking.

Best Budget Hotel in Krabi – Aonang Third Place

Enjoy a peaceful and scenic environment, complete with modern rooms and a private balcony. Lounge in the Aonang Third Place Garden or mingle in the lounge. This hotel is a sleek and sophisticated establishment that won’t break your bank. Close to the Nopparat Thara Beach and Krabi Airport, this spot is prime! You will also be a short distance from incredible restaurants.

Best Luxury Hotel in Krabi – Rawi Warin Resort & Spa

For a 5-star getaway, Rawi Warin Resort & Spa will blow you away with chic design and sheer elegance. The beachside resort boasts incredible Thai-style rooms complete with fine wood furnishings and flooring. You will find everything your heart could desire! With a world-class spa at your fingertips, restaurants serving the best cuisine, and a classy on-site bar- you are bound to have the time of your life!

Krabi’s public transport system consists of tuk-tuk (motorcycle taxi) drivers, local buses (known as song-taew ), and regular taxis. The tuk-tuks are the most traditional way of getting around, although you will often have to bargain with your driver to get a reasonable price. As for the local taxis and buses, they can be easily waved down just like a US taxi, and provide a great way to get around at a good price.

Renting either a car or a motorcycle during your Krabi trip are ideal options, as you won’t ever have to worry about finding a ride. You will also have the freedom to explore! You will then also have the option to hire a driver or guide for the day to show you some of the hidden gems of Krabi.

Of course, traveling by sea is also a must-do travel experience whilst in Krabi. You can find long-tail boats, speed boats, and ferris at most docks within the province. This is an excellent way to feel the wind, take in the beachscapes, and get from A to B quickly.

Walking in Krabi is also a lovely way to experience the authentic atmosphere and environment of the villages and towns. It may not be the best way to get to each place, as a lot of Krabi’s attractions are quite far apart, but it is a marvelous way to see the nature of the province. You will come across everything from street food, to artwork, and inspiring local businesses.

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Wat Tham Sua | Ao Luk Mangroves | Khao Khanab Nam Mountains | Klong Thom Hot Springs | Emerald Pool

Whether you are spending one day in Krabi or more, we have the best way to enjoy your vacation in Krabi! Enjoy natural splendor and spiritual bliss in our itinerary!

Day 1/Stop 1 – Wat Tham Sua

Why it’s awesome: It’s where monks come together to live and worship, deep within the jungle in a maze of natural caves.
Cost: Free.
Food recommendation: Tiger Cafe offers authentic Thai food at a reasonable price. You can enjoy a plethora of tasty meals, and we suggest that you try one of their shakes!

To begin your time in Krabi, we have a cultural landmark remarkable history. Also known as Tiger Cave Temple , Wat Tham Sua is situated near the charming and welcoming Krabi Town. Surrounding this mesmerizing temple is a dense forest of ancient trees, most older than 100 years. These lovely trees sprout from the mountainscape, where a vast amount of unusual caves can be found and admired.

The site is known for being a meditation centre, as well as the home to stone tools, pottery remains, and the mold for making Buddha footprints. In the main temple cave, you will come across photos of internal organs and split caverns- which is very bizarre, but they are there as a way for the monks to remember the temporary nature of the body.

The biggest feature of Wat Tham Sua temple complex is the 1,272 step climb up a scenic limestone tower. Once at the top, you will see the awe-inspiring “Footprint of the Buddha”. This is a stone carving said to be from Guatama Buddha himself. The site is not only an iconically spiritual one but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Krabi’s countryside and the Andaman sea.

Insider Tip: The hike can be quite strenuous if you aren’t much of a hiker, so pack water and a backpack full of refreshments, as well as comfortable shoes.

Day 1/Stop 2 – Ao Luk Mangroves

Why it’s awesome: You will see roots that only grow in this area, and they grow above the ground!
Cost: Free- excluding tours and boat rides.
Food recommendation: Three Good Kitchen Restaurant offers excellent food! Sit back and relax in the wonderful surroundings, and be sure to try their many delicious chicken dishes!

The mysterious Ao Luk Mangroves provides a secluded adventure into the rainforest. Gain insight into the world of Krabi’s wildlife and enjoy the stunning vibrancy of the vegetation and thriving habitats. The Ao Luk Mangroves has three charming caves, Tham Phi Hua To, Tham Lod Neua, and Tham Lod Tai. Each of these magical caves offers a truly remarkable experience!

The cave of Tham Lod Tai is a jaw-dropping gorgeous limestone tunnel The tunnel itself is long and narrow, and the walls are filled with stalactites and stalagmites! You can even hire a long-tail boat ride through the mesmerizing tunnel to enjoy its fascinating features.

The Tham Phi Hua To Cave, meaning ‘ Big-headed Ghost Cave ’, is spooky and interesting. This large cave once served as burial site 3000 years ago. You will not only get goosebumps from the mere thrill of visiting an ancient burial site, but you will also find beautiful cave paintings and rock formations. See if you can spot the formation that looks like a dragon’s head!

Cave Thom Lad Neua is also magnificent and massive, offering spectacular cave murals and a look into the ancient history of Krabi’s old natives.

Along with the mystical caves, the mangrove itself is overflowing with varying kinds of wildlife, and you are bound to come across a lot of incredible creatures who call this tropical paradise thier home.

Day 1/Stop 3 – Khao Khanab Nam Mountains

Why it’s awesome: Features two amazing rock formations on water!
Cost: 300 ($9,41)
Food recommendation: For a taste of spicy goodness, Taj Palace Indian Restaurant provides mouth-watering Indian food! The tandoori chicken is notoriously delicious.

Experiencing the beauty of nature never ceases to amaze, and the Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are no exception. These mountains stand 100 meters tall and are some of the most famous Krabi points of interest! Once you have experienced this magic for yourself, you will understand how this particular mountain range has gained such massive popularity.

Three gorgeous mountains stand as gatekeeper the entrance to Krabi. You will want your camera with you to shoot the mesmerizing view of river water flowing between two majestic limestone cliffs. Although the site is beautiful, it is also home to a storied past!

Expect to see ancient human skeletons and debate over how they could have died- it is a mystery in Krabi! The mystical mountains harbor has caves with collections of stalagmites, stalactites, and truly magnificent landscapes. Visiting Khao Khanab Nam Mountains is well worth the journey and will fill your time in Krabi with magic!

Day 1/Stop 4 – Klong Thom Hot Springs

Why it’s awesome: Natural volcanic hot spring water!
Cost: 90 ($2,82) for the hot springs, 200 ($6,27) for the nature reserve.
Food recommendation: The Reun Morakot Restaurant serves magnificent Thai food with a smile! Every dish is tasty!

Ever dreamt of an organic paradise set completely away from cityscapes and the sound of cars driving? We have that lined up for you on our two-day Krabi Itinerary! The Klong Thom Hot Springs is a kind of heaven on earth, offering you the chance to soak in a pristine forest and relax whilst bathing in volcanic hot spring water! Can it get any better?

The water originates from deep within an ancient Krabi volcano, and this volcano is surrounded by naturally smooth and hollowed-out “bathtubs”. The spring water overflows and fills each of the gorgeous stone tubs, creating the world’s most incredible jungle bath!

The water is a very pleasantly warm temperature, between 35°C-42°C (95°F – 108°F). After you’ve breathed in the steamy hot air and invigorated yourself, admired the canopies of dense forest vegetation, and bathed in spring water- you can cool off in a beautiful cool river found flowing just under the hot spring!

Other than being one of the most remarkable ways to relax, hot springs have incredible amounts of healing benefits. The fresh natural water will do wonders for your skin and all the steamy air will help to remove toxins from your body. This is fun and healing all in a gorgeous rainforest setting, and it’s a great way to relax when backpacking through Thailand!

Insider Tip: Be sure to keep your eyes out for some rare birds that can be spotted in Krabi: Gurneys, Finfoots, Big Winged Brown Kingfishers, Bitterns, Herons and more!

Day 1/Stop 5 – The Emerald Pool

Why it’s awesome: Natural crystal-clear turquoise water.
Cost: 200 ($6,27)
Food recommendation: The Madcha Narcare Restaurant offers flavorsome Thai cuisine in a relaxed setting! The staff is friendly and the prices are great.

Cap off the first of your two days in Krabi with a refreshing dip in another one of the best Krabi attractions! The Emerald Pool has fascinated and captivated travelers ever since it was discovered in the Klong Thom Nature Reserve! Also known as Sa Morakot, the Emerald pool is a vibrant turquoise lake just waiting to be enjoyed by you.

The waters are fresh and clean, steaming down from the natural pools coming from the surrounding mountains. In the midst of the mystifying and wild jungle, there are two beautiful and crystal-clear lakes! One of these is the Emerald Pool, the more popular of the two. The other is the Blue Pool.

You will be touched by the ambiance of this jungle sanctuary and enchanted by the rich colors of both lakes! Experience one of the most blissful natural environments that Krabi has to offer, and melt into the water as the sun goes down.

The Pop In Hostel Ao Nang is located a convenient ten minute walk away from the beach in Ao Nang. It offers private rooms with either a shared or ensuite bathroom, as well as bunk beds in mixed or female-only dormitory rooms.

There are heaps of amazing hostels in Thailand , so do your research before your trip starts!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Wat Kaew Temple | Elephant Sanctuary | Thung Teao Forest Natural Park | Phra Ae Beach| Tonsai Bay

Enjoy the last of your stay in Krabi while falling even more in love with this enthralling island! Venture to sacred sites, meet huge four legged friends, and so much more!

Day 2/Stop 1 – Wat Kaew Temple

Why it’s awesome: A Bhuddist temple that is also a significant spiritual landmark!
Cost: 500 ($15,67)
Food recommendation: Cafe 8.98 is an amazing place to enjoy freshly brewed coffee! Have a magnificent breakfast, and give the cafe’s vegan and vegetarian options a try.

Right off the bat, the Wat Kaew Temple will thrill and inspire you! Waiting to greet you at the entrance are two legendary and golden dragons. Walk up the grand staircase adorned with the symbolic gold dragons and be blessed with luck! The dragon in Thailand is an auspicious symbol of good fortune.

The Wat Kaew Temple is considered to be the most sacred temple in Krabi and stands as an embodiment of peace and prosperity for the ‘Land of Smiles’. The relaxed and cheerful interior of the temple is overflowing with colorful pictures and stories from the life of Buddha.

The temple is home to the famous Emerald Buddha, a highly revered and worshipped image of Buddha that has been carved meticulously from one single piece of Jade. It is a stunning monument dating back to the 15th-century.

Soak in the atmosphere, bliss, and spiritual significance of this site! The gardens are also well kept and provide a lovely place to both admire the temple and catch some early morning sun rays.

Day 2/Stop 2 – Elephant Sanctuary

Why it’s awesome: It is the best elephant experience in Krabi!
Cost: 2500 ($78,35)
Food recommendation: Gecko cabane Restaurant is a laid-back and charming place to grab a tasty Thai meal! Each of the meals is cooked to perfection.

The Krabi Elephant Sanctuary is a noble establishment dedicated to bettering the lives of elephants in Krabi and providing a safe place for the old and injured elephants of the province. This is the only ethical elephant sanctuary in Krabi, meaning that you won’t find elephant rides and wild animals on chains here! Just the opposite, actually. However, you will meet some rather large and four legged friends at the Elephant Sanctuary!

These sentient and beautiful creatures call the sanctuary home and are treated with love and care by the owners and workers of the establishment. You will get the chance to enjoy personal interactions with these renownedly wise and mighty creatures!

This ethical elephant sanctuary prides itself on providing a natural habitat for the elephants. You will get a once in a lifetime chance to be in nature with these incredible creatures! No cages or enclosures. Humbly walk about and try to spot, feed, and befriend these lovable ellies.

The sanctuary experience is combined with ecotourism, so you can also learn about the habitats and learn about the lives of elephants in Asia as a whole.

Day 2/Stop 3 – Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

Why it’s awesome: You can enjoy the innate natural beauty of Krabi forests!
Cost: 90 ($2,82)

Escape into the wondrous canopies of vegetation and wild plantations of Krabi’s forests at Thung Teao Forest Natural Park! Embark on a journey away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, islands, and beaches and step into a wonderland of animals, insects, and exciting indigenous vegetation.

Be enchanted by the many colors and sounds that the forest provides, and get lost in the harmony and magic of the wilderness. The park preserves pristine and untouched habitats and plants that have been around for many years longer than most of us! Explore the lush rainforest and find hidden gems, caves, and pools.

Find limestone cliffs and jump from each one to the next! Embrace your inner animal, and let loose in the glorious environment of the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. Off you go to lose your mind and find your soul.

Insider Tip: If you enjoy climbing cliffs and trees, be sure to bring suitable shoes ! Try not to wear your best clothes for this adventure, as you can expect to get a bit messy.

Day 2/Stop 4 – Phra Ae Beach

Why it’s awesome: It is an idyllic Thai beach paradise!
Food recommendation: Patty’s Secret Garden is a marvelous place for flavorsome Thai food! Experience some of the most tasty cooking on the island whilst enjoying a laid-back environment.

Situated in Koh Lanta, Phra Ae Beach (also known as Long Beach) is a whimsical island paradise come true! Walk along the white sand shores, embracing the fresh salty air and taking in the endless horizons of the turquoise ocean. Feel your stress melt away and the good vibes booming as you relax under a swaying palm tree to take it all in!

Phra Ae Beach is not as packed as most beaches, providing you with a place to enjoy some peaceful breaths and a chance to let your experiences of Krabi really integrate! Watch as the sun begins to set, and enjoy a delicious cocktail while you’re at it.

You can also enjoy some fun watersports like snorkeling, diving, and swimming while reminiscing in the exquisite beauty of the island. There is a reason Krabi is known for having astounding beaches and you will understand why. A beach getaway simply has to be apart of your trip to Krabi!

Day 2/Stop 5 – Tonsai Bay

Why it’s awesome: A famously lively and fun part of Krabi!
Food recommendation: Tonsai Seafood is a wonderful gig that provides excellent ocean cuisine cooked with a touch of Thai mastery!

What would a Vacation in Krabi be without a little partying and letting loose? End your itinerary in Krabi with a festive celebration in the legendary Tonsai Bay on the beautiful Phi Phi island. Get ready for a late night before you leave, and have a chance to experience the world-renowned Tonsai Bay party scene.

The entire village of Tonsai Bay is home to a crazy amount of fun bars, clubs, and entertainment. Spend the night bar hopping and living it up in Tonsai Bay! Meet locals, fellow travelers, and create memories that will last a lifetime

Tonsai Bay will offer you a night that will go down in your record books of great times! Dance, drink, laugh, and let yourself be taken for a wild ride.

Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the awesome Reggae Bar to the Banana Rooftop Bar!

The Pop In Hostel Ao Nang

Free Breakfast

Susan Hoi | Krabi Night Market | Phra Nang Cave Beach | Koh Klang | Mu Ko Lanta National Park

Do you want to know what to do in Krabi? Or are you planning on spending more than three days in Krabi, Thailand? You won’t need to stress about planning, our complete itinerary has everything you need to have a trip filled to the brim with fun and unforgettable memories.

An ancient beach full of unbelievable natural wonders!
The tourists don’t often come here, so you’ll miss the crowds.
Entrance fee is 400 ($12,54)

Susan Hoi is not only a fascinating beach, but is the home to an incredible amount of SEA crustacean shells and fossils. Due to the unusual landscape of the beach, it has been dubbed the Fossil Beach. Be prepared to have your mind blown by the ancient remains of the ocean’s creatures and the now dried up plates of what used to be a swamp.

The Susan Hoi site is found within the Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and captivates people worldwide who know about its existence. There are said to be only two other places like it in the whole world! The fossils date back to forty million years ago, making this one of the most outstanding places to add onto our three-day itinerary in Krabi.

Susan Hoi once used to be a thriving large freshwater swamp, hosting an immense amount of creatures and critters within its banks and surrounding vegetation. Once the swamp dried out, the layers of shells that were left behind created huge rock slabs. These rock slabs are now humorously called “shelly limestone,” and they rest on layers of lignite .

The unique beauty of one of the most gorgeous Krabi landmarks is unforgetable and will surely have you thinking about what life on earth could have been like 40 million years ago.

Krabi Night Market

The entrance to the market is free!
No Krabi trip itinerary would be complete without the famous Krabi night market!
This is a must-see place if you are spending the Weekend in Krabi, as it is hosted on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.

The world-famous Krabi Night Market is an incredible mass of color, textures, smell, and contagious energy all laid out under an open night sky! The stalls are set for as far as the eye can see and can all be found along Krabi’s Walking Street (Otherwise known in Thai to be Thanon Khon Dern ).

The Krabi Nightmarket is by far the most important shopping experiences to have during your Krabi vacation! Over 50 stalls get put up, and you will find everything from street food and clothing to culinary items and home decor. The store holders are friendly and very well organized, so you won’t have to deal with bad service. Just be prepared for the noise, as this is a place that truly showcases the confident and boisterous nature of the Thai people.

You will be surprised by what you may come across, and you are sure to be somewhat charmed by the way that the locals put together this event.

Phra Nang Cave Beach

This beautiful beach is found in Ao Nang.
You can easily find resorts and hostels nearby that would make for the best place to stay in Krabi.
Entrance onto the beach is free!

Soak up the warm sunshine and laze on the white sands of Phra Nang beach! Not only is the beach a blissful paradise, surrounded by swaying palm trees and wild vegetation, but it is also home to a fascinating cave. Enjoy one of the most gorgeous beaches on our Krabi Itinerary!

Whilst on the beach, be sure to enjoy water sports and catch yourself a killer tan, as this beach is one of a kind and has everything you can imagine! The waters are still and smooth, providing a perfect place to simply float on the water, or dive deep, and meet some colorful scally sea creatures.

When planning a trip to Krabi, it is important to make a note of the best beaches, and this is certainly one of them! You can escape into the eerie and yet curious cave of the sea princess in Krabi and witness the way that the locals pray and worship her. There is a shrine where you will find countless incense sticks, photos and spiritual paraphernalia that has all been placed in her honor!

If you’d like to visit Phra Nang Cave Beach by boat, check out this speedboat tour .

An incredible island found near Krabi and accessible by ferry.
A place that has well preserved the old ways of Krabi, Thailand.
Entrance into the village is free!

Embark on a journey and humbly explore the old village of Koh Klang. The village is a mere 26 square-meters, and it is entirely made up of indigenous plant life, rivers, canals, mangrove forests, and peaceful beaches. The inhabitants of this island are natives, and they live in a way that has not been tainted by the west, maintaining their roots and keeping to the ways of the old.

The name Koh Klang means “middle island,” and it has been given this name because it is between two wide estuaries. On the east, you will find the Krabi River, where it will take you a short five-minute ferry ride to get back to Krabi.

Most tourists don’t go to Koh Klang. This is because it is native land and does not offer a lot in the way of mainstream tourism with no major attractions or must-see sites. The only exciting sightseeing wise will be of some amazing rural landscapes. However, it does offer something that other places in Krabi may not- an authentic looking glass into the ways of the ancient Thai natives.

The people of Koh Lang live simply as a way of life, and they enjoy the harmony and simplicity of it all. This is a wonderful way to appreciate other lifestyles, and broaden our understanding of cultures and people.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park

The Mu Ko Lanta National Park is a huge part of Krabi’s nature conservation!
The park was established in 1990, so it is relatively new.
Entrance fee is 200 ($6,26) for adults and 100 ($3,13) for children

Mu Ko Lanta National Park consists of several gorgeous Thai islands! The park boasts rugged hills that roll over the Andaman sea, covered in thriving plant life and providing spellbinding views.

You can venture into the dense rainforests and discover the neverending bliss of Krabi’s vegetation, breathing in air that is thick with life and an earthy scent. You can even find massive mangrove forests, as the Mai Ngam, South Mai Ngam, and Ngu islands are absolutely covered in them!

Taking a turn for the unusual, you may also come across nomadic sea gypsies called the Chao Le that live in the forests and islands of the national park. They are said to set boats adrift during the full moon of June and November, as it is a tradition of theirs to draw in good luck.

Mainly what you’ll find during your great adventure at Mu Ko Lanta National Park is outstanding and private white sand beaches, jaw-dropping viewpoints, hidden walking trails, and some incredibly impressive ancient caves.

Insider Tip: Like at the National Mosque, dress conservatively to skip the queues for robes.

The province of Krabi is renowned for being a safe place for both extensive and short visits. The locals are incredibly friendly, and most travelers don’t experience any kind of threats or mishap during their stay. With this in mind, we would still love to cover some safety tips in our Krabi itinerary to make sure that everything goes smoothly during your island adventure!

Pickpockets are all over the world, and Krabi is no exception. Be sure to watch your belongings and don’t let strangers get too friendly with you out of the blue. This should not be a major issue, but it is something to remember and stay cautious of.

Of course, behave sensibly when partying and when walking about at night. Keep friends and travel companions close when going places on foot at night, and stay away from suspicious alleyways.

Although crime happens everywhere, the main danger in Krabi doesn’t come from the people, but more from mother nature herself. Beach safety is something to be aware of, as the ocean can become rough during the monsoon season from May to October.

Otherwise, rip tides aren’t lethal but are better to be avoided. Remember to also be careful of mooring boats! Thankfully, Krabi’s marine life species aren’t poisonous, so there are no threats from the creatures of the sea.

To learn more about the safety of areas near Krabi, read our recommendations and report on staying safe in Thailand .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Krabi

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Wanting to know what to do in Krabi during the day to add to your itinerary in Krabi? Are you looking for a magical evening of oceanic fun? We have all the best day trips from Krabi in our Krabi itinerary for you to take your pick from and enjoy an endless amount of beauty, wonderment and new adventures!

We will help ensure that you enjoy every moment of touring Krabi.

From Phuket: Deluxe Phi Phi Tour by Speedboat & Lunch Buffet

The notoriously stunning Phi Phi island is calling your name! Discover the enchanting beauty of these one-of-a-kind islands during an beach tour. Have your breath taken away as you saunter the islands, embarking on the adventure of a lifetime!

Start your day with a speedboat trip across the Andaman sea and then spend the rest of your day engrossed in snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the white sand beaches of the Phi Phi Islands. Sightsee, spot the famous surrounding sites, and cool off in the turquoise water. Be sure to bring your camera! You will want to capture the moment.

Krabi: Hong Islands Day Trip by Speedboat with Lunch

A trip to Krabi would simply not be complete without indulging in the exquisite beaches! Spend your day exploring and soaking in the stunning shores and nature of the Hong islands. Stroll leisurely along the white sand beaches, dip in the inviting turquoise waters, and breathe in the rejuvenating salty air.

Not only will you have the opportunity to bask in the magic of Hong island’s beautiful beaches, but you will also be able to venture into the wild and adventure the forests and natural landscapes. This seven-hour tour will be overflowing with relaxing swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking experiences that will add a whole heap of loveliness to your travels!

Krabi: ATV Adventure

Jump on an ATV and get ready for the ride of a lifetime! Accompanied by a knowledgeable and experienced guide, you will get taken for exhilarating getaway through the lush vegetation. Drive through a beautiful tropical rainforest that will showcase the expansive glory of Krabi’s durian plantations. See majestic rambutan fruits, swaying palm trees, and mysterious craggy mountains.

You will get a chance to see Krabi’s natural landscape in a way most tourists don’t along with the personal touch of having free rein to explore and enjoy each site. Become spellbound by the birds, plants, and wildlife in the forests of this immense island.

For more of our onwards travel adventures, take a look at our report on the weirdest coolest, and best places to visit in Thailand!

Krabi Sunset Tour With Bioluminescent Plankton & BBQ Dinner

Nobody can deny the mystifying ambiance of a brightly colored sunset, especially when setting over the famously beautiful Andaman sea. On this tour, you will have have the chance to enjoy the magic of the sun setting whilst lazing on the white sands of Phranang Beach. Then, as you soak in the magic, you will dine on a delicious and well-prepared BBQ dinner!

Once the sun has finally set past the horizon of the endless sea, you will then be taken on an unforgettable adventure. Swim, dive, and snorkel amongst magnificent fluorescent plankton during a nighttime excursion of the ocean! Who says fairytales aren’t real?

Krabi: Half-Day Rock Climbing at Railay Beach

Whether you are a seasoned rock-star or new to climbing, this experience will blow you away and give you memories that will last a lifetime! Climb the superb and gorgeous limestone cliffs of Railay Beach with an experienced professional guide. Is there a better way to spend the afternoon?

Your expert instructor will lead the way, taking you on a journey to the top of Railay’s best cliffs and providing a wonderful Krabi walking tour. This thrilling experience will give you jaw-dropping views of the sea. Enjoy a variety of fantastic climbing routes, each with unique character and prime viewing spots. Spend your hours climbing the famous cliffs of Railay and mark it off your bucket list! (This activity may not be perfect for absolute beginners. Call ahead to be sure of the skill level required).

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Krabi itinerary.

What are some things to do in Krabi for couples?

Take a refreshing and romantic dip in the incredible Emerald Pool.

Are there any unique things to do in Krabi?

Take in the unique rock formations, fascinating caves and dense jungle at the Phra Nang Cave Beach.

What are some awesome things to do in Krabi with family?

The kids will love searching for crustation shells and ancient fossils on Susan Hoi whilst the adults soak in the sun!

Where is the best place to stay in Krabi?

Check out Aonang Third Place, a stunning budget hotel close to Nopparat Thara Beach.

Krabi is an incredible treasure trove of memorable adventures that will stay in your heart and soul forever! The stories of your time there will be told again and again, and you might feel a constant pull to return once you have been. Expect to fall in love!

We know that our Krabi itinerary will make for the perfect travel companion and that your days and nights will be made just that much more special. Each and every travel story begins with planning the trip, and we are glad to be a part of your journey!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali

Clair Cathryn

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How to Travel from Phuket to Krabi?

Phuket and Krabi are separated by the Andaman Sea. The distance between Phuket and Krabi is 160 kilometers by land.

You can travel between Phuket and Krabi by land or water. Ferry/speedboat, bus, and taxi are the three main ways to travel from Phuket to Krabi.

There is no direct flight from Phuket to Krabi, so flying is not recommended.
The fastest way to get from Phuket to Krabi is by speedboat.
The cheapest way is by bus.
During rainy season (June - October), taking a taxi (private transfer) is recommended. Because ferries/speedboats will be delayed or canceled because of rough seas sometimes.

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Phuket to Krabi by Ferry/Speedboat (Fastest)

Cost: about 800–1,200 THB (US$24–36) p/p
Journey time: 2–2½ hours (speedboat); 3-8 hours (ferry)

From Bang Rong Pier (north of Phuket), there are two speedboats to Krabi. They arrive at different piers: one at Nopparat Thara Pier, which is close to Ao Nang Beach, and the other at Floating Pier, which is close to Railay Beach.

The departure time is 9:30am and they take about 2 hours. The sea is often rough. If you suffer from seasickness, traveling by taxi is recommended instead.

From Rassada Pier (south of Phuket), there are ferries to Krabi once a day in the high seasons and three times a week in the low seasons. The direct trip takes about 2½-3 hours.

Another option is stopping over on Phi Phi Island, and then continuing the journey to Krabi later in the day. The whole journey will take 4-8 hours.

Check the sample itineraries for Thailand tours: Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days .

Phuket to Krabi by Taxi (Comfortable)

Journey time: 2–2½ hours

Traveling from Phuket to Krabi by taxi is the most flexible and comfortable way. You can choose the pick-up and arrival points.

This is recommended if you'll carry a lot of luggage or have children or elderly people in your group — basically this is the best option for those who are prone to travel sickness.

Some taxis may refuse to use the meter or charge excessive prices. To avoid these problems, we recommend you book a taxi online or ask the hotel to call one for you. Then you will get a reasonable price.

Phuket to Krabi by Bus (Cheapest)

Cost: about 2,600 THB ($78) per car (2–3 people)
Journey time: 2½ hours

Phuket Bus Terminal 2 has hourly buses to Krabi Bus Terminal daily from 7:30am to 9:30pm. It won't be comfortable, but it could be a good local life experience and a chance to meet locals. Krabi Bus Terminal is 5 km (3 miles) from downtown Krabi.

Another way, shared minivan, is similar to going by bus. Ten seats are available per minivan. It is more convenient than a bus station bus in that it can pick you up from your hotel. However, you need to expect a painful amount of waiting time as the minivan will go from hotel to hotel picking up other passengers. You can purchase tickets from travel agents on the streets or at hotels.

What is the most recommended way to travel from Phuket to Krabi?

Speedboat and taxi are the two recommended ways. What will be best for you depends on your destination in Krabi.

If you book a hotel in Krabi near Ao Nang or Railay beach, which have speedboat piers, a speedboat would be fast and convenient.

If your destination is in/near Krabi town, or you fancy a comfortable and flexible journey, taxi would be the best choice.

You could choose a private tour with private transfers for zero-hassle, relaxing journeys.

We can help you arrange a worry-free private tour in Thailand.

For a medium budget, touring Thailand typically costs around US$150–200 per day per person (including airfares within Thailand, 4-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
For a higher budget of US$200–250 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Thailand, 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

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PERFECT 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary For 2024!
Things To Do On Our 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary. Day 1: Arrival Day At Phuket And Relaxing On The Beach. Day 2: Big Budhha, Phuket Town, And Partying At Patong Beach. Day 3: Koh Panyee And Bond Island Tour. Day 4: Go From Phuket To Krabi And Relax On The Beach. Day 5: Tiger Cave Temple And Emerald Pool.
My 7 Day Phuket Itinerary
My 7 Day Phuket Itinerary + Koh Phi Phi & Krabi! (2024) August 25, 2024. No Thailand trip is complete without visiting Phuket and Krabi! If you want to find out how to explore both then this blog is for you! Located in the south of Thailand, in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Phuket is the country's biggest, most diverse and most popular island ...
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A ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi costs about 700 Baht and takes around two hours. The Phuket to Phi Phi Island ferry can be booked here. If you're going directly to Krabi or if the weather is bad, I would suggest going from Phuket to Krabi by road - buses are as cheap as £6 from Phuket town bus station.
Phuket Krabi Itinerary For 6 Days: Milind's Amazing Honeymoon Trip
5 Best Experiences On Our Trip To Phuket Krabi. Here are 5 stunning experiences from our Phuket Krabi Itinerary for 6 days that will help you explore the country just like a local: 1. Visiting The Beautiful Phi Phi Island. Visiting the Phi Phi island was one of our best experience in Krabi. This day after having a hearty breakfast, we proceeded ...
Phuket, Krabi & Ko Phi Phi: Best Itinerary Ideas
Day 13. Transfer to Phuket, Depart. If your idea of a perfect vacation is warm weather, idyllic beaches, and remote islands, then southern Thailand's Andaman Coast delivers. This leisurely 13-day itinerary hops between the mainland and islands of southern Thailand, spending time on the gorgeous beaches of Krabi, Ko Phi Phi, Phuket, and Khao Lak.
Phuket vs Krabi: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]!
Deciding between Krabi or Phuket can be difficult. However as travel experts we're here to help with our honest & in-depth comparison! ... Blog. Thailand. July 20, 2021 . Phuket vs Krabi: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]! ... Traveling in and around Phuket and Krabi is relatively easy, and there are so many cool places to explore in both
The PERFECT 3 Days in Krabi Itinerary (2024 Guide)
There are plenty of those to go around! Table of Contents. The Perfect 3 Days In Krabi Itinerary for Every Traveller. Day 1 - Hikes and Nightlife. Hiking in Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint. Shell Cemetery (Susan Hoi) Pay a Visit to Wat Kaew Korawaram. Sunset & Nightlife in Ao Nang Beach. Day 2 - Island Hopping.
BEST Guide for Choosing Between Phuket vs Krabi (2024)
Southeast Asia is famous for delicious food at a low cost. In Phuket, you can have a meal for around $4, and in Krabi for only $2.50. It's quite the steal in both places. Surprisingly a beer in Krabi cost a little more than a beer in Phuket. In Krabi, you'll pay around $3 and in Phuket, you can indulge for $2.50.
Phuket-Krabi Thailand 7 days optimized itinerary
Wednesday, September 20, 2017. This post aims to help plan your Phuket and Krabi trip in Thailand in an optimized way. Assuming you've 7 days, 6 nights at your disposal, below is an itinerary you can adapt n customize. Feel free to ask any questions/clarifications. Flight ticket bookings: Book two one way tickets- from your city to Phuket and ...
Krabi Travel Guide
Krabi, 170 km east of Phuket, is another beautiful beach destination with tall cliffs, clear blue waters, and sandy beaches. It's like a jungle adventure with tasty food in the town's busy markets. ... This blog and travel guide is live since January 2011, brought to you by local travel experts! Read about Phuket 101 here. Read our privacy ...
Travelling from Phuket To Krabi: The Best Ways To Get There
Here are the top 5 best ways to get to Krabi from Phuket: 1. Hopping On a Local Bus To Krabi From Phuket. PRICE: a basic bus ticket can cost around 150-200 THB (approximately 6-8 AUD) per person, However, more comfortable and air-conditioned buses can cost up to 300-400 THB (approximately 13-17 AUD) per person. DURATION: 3-4 hours.
Krabi vs Phuket
Krabi's beaches are better suited for activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Accessibility: Many of Krabi's beaches are only accessible by boat, which adds to their exclusivity and natural beauty. Phuket's beaches, on the other hand, are generally more easily accessible by car or motorbike.
Should You Visit Phuket or Krabi (or Both)?
Phuket vs Krabi: Basic Differences Geography. Phuket is an island—Krabi has islands. Phuket also has islands, of course, to the extent that many of the best islands near Krabi (from popular choices like Koh Phi Phi to more obscure ones like Koh Poda) are also within day-trip distance of Phuket at least theoretically.If you also keep in mind Phuket is a huge island and is therefore something ...
The best Thailand itinerary for 10 days: Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi
The perfect Thailand itinerary: 10 days. For us, it is the perfect itinerary, including what we have done and what we wish we have done if we had time! 1 Arriving in Phuket. 2 Elephant sanctuary. 3 Temples and Big Buddha. 4 and 5 Phi Phi islands. 6 Krabi Railey beach. 7 Hong island.
A Comparison of Day Tours from Phuket to Krabi
Krabi is located around 160km from Phuket, with a easy-going vibe, crystal-clear waters and lush jungles. There are a variety of day trips from Phuket to Krabi that can be found, taking in the beautiful islands in and around the area and travelling either in a group or by private speedboat. Here is a comparison of day tours from Phuket to Krabi.
Phuket to Krabi: 7 Ways to Get There via land & Sea (2024)
Final Thoughts: What is the best way to travel from Phuket to Krabi? Overall, taking a bus or ferry from Phuket to Krabi is the best way to get between these two southern Thailand locations. For budget-conscious travelers, the bus is the way to go. ... Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps ...
11 Best Things to Do in Krabi
11. Ao Luk Mangroves. Ao Luk mangroves offer a fantastic kayaking adventure with lush jungle scenery to explore. The mangroves are located within Than Bok Khorani National Park in Krabi, an untouched haven of limestone mountains and jungle found about 50km away from Ao Nang Beach.
PHUKET TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget, Itinerary, Things to Do
The bus is the cheapest. The downside, it takes 13 to 16 hours, depending on traffic. The public bus (BKS bus) is generally okay, but because it's a loooong ride, you might want to be more comfortable. Private companies like Phuket Travel, Phuket Central, and Bus Express offer trips for only ฿643 per person.
The BEST PHUKET ITINERARY in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)
Phuket Itinerary Day 1. Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier. In and around Phuket, day 1 is all about getting to know your immediate surroundings. Then, we move down to southern Phuket, before returning to the city for a seaside dinner.
The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand
How to get from Phuket to Krabi - The best way to get to Krabi from Phuket is by ferry or bus. The bus is a more budget-friendly option and it only takes 3 hours compared to the 2-hour ferry. ... Or browse our travel blog for more inspiration! That's the end of our The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand!
Krabi Vs Phuket In 2023: Things To Do, Beaches, Food, Shopping & Nightlife
Geography: Both these islands are located in southern Thailand. While Phuket island is spread over 543 sq KM with 30 small islands, Krabi covers a whopping 4708 sq KM divided among 80 pet islands. Terrain: Phuket is all about mountains and beaches whereas Krabi has got mangrove forests added to its kitty. Limestone cliffs are added attractions in Krabi. ...
KRABI Itinerary (How to Spend 3 Days in 2024)
The mysterious Ao Luk Mangroves provides a secluded adventure into the rainforest. Gain insight into the world of Krabi's wildlife and enjoy the stunning vibrancy of the vegetation and thriving habitats. The Ao Luk Mangroves has three charming caves, Tham Phi Hua To, Tham Lod Neua, and Tham Lod Tai.
How to Travel from Phuket to Krabi?
The distance between Phuket and Krabi is 160 kilometers by land. You can travel between Phuket and Krabi by land or water. Ferry/speedboat, bus, and taxi are the three main ways to travel from Phuket to Krabi. There is no direct flight from Phuket to Krabi, so flying is not recommended. The fastest way to get from Phuket to Krabi is by speedboat.
Phuket Vs Krabi: Best Thailand Beach Break
Travel to the islands of Ko Phi Phi Lee and Bamboo, which boast some of the most idyllic beaches in Thailand. Relax under the bamboo trees and go swimming in the pristine blue waters that surround these exquisite islands. Both Phuket and Krabi offer many perfect beaches. Krabi has a wider choice, all offering stunning views and numerous ...
How to Travel from Bangkok to Phuket: Transportation Options Explained
Cost and Travel Time Comparison. Flying to Krabi and then taking a ferry can be a great alternative. Here's a quick comparison: Flight to Krabi: Around $31, 1 hour 20 minutes; Ferry to Phuket: $10 - $25, 1 hour 20 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes; This route can be a fun way to see more of Thailand while traveling to Phuket.

PERFECT 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary For 2024!

How Many Days In Phuket And Krabi Is Enough?

Things To Do On Our 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day At Phuket And Relaxing On The Beach

Day 2: Big Budhha, Phuket Town, And Partying At Patong Beach

Day 3: Koh Panyee And Bond Island Tour

Day 4: Go From Phuket To Krabi And Relax On The Beach

Day 5: Tiger Cave Temple And Emerald Pool

Day 6: Phi Phi Island Tour With Maya Bay

Day 7: Railay Beach Departure

Where To Stay In Phuket

Where To Stay In Krabi

Phuket & Krabi Itinerary FAQs

What Kind of Budget Should I Plan for a 7-day Trip to Phuket and Krabi?

What is the Best Way to Get Around Phuket and Krabi?

Final Thoughts: 7 Days In Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

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My 7 Day Phuket Itinerary – How to Spend 7 Days in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.

Where To Stay in Phuket, Thailand

How Long To Spend In Phuket

The Ultimate 7 Day Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Itinerary

Day 2 – Explore Phuket’s Famous West Coast Beaches

Day 3 – Enjoy Unspoilt Beaches and Elephant Sanctuaries

Day 4 – Discover Temples, Thai Culture and Phuket Old Town

Day 5 – Visit Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

Morning & Afternoon

Day 6 – Visit The Phi Phi Islands And Maya Bay

Day 7 – Explore Krabi And Railay Beach

More Tips For Planning Your Itinerary For Phuket and Krabi

Best Time to Visit Phuket and Krabi

How to Get to Phuket and Get Around

Ready To Start Planning Your Own Phuket and Krabi itinerary?

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