Holidays in Thailand with Teens
Thailand is jam-packed with fascinating culture, unbelievable shopping, diverse nature and wildlife, idyllic beaches, and, of course, incredible food. Travelling with your teenagers to this Southeast Asian country is a great way to expand their horizons and fill your family photo album with memories you'll treasure.
Whether they’re younger and newer to travel or older and already craving adventure experiences, Thailand has something for even the pickiest of teens. Below, we share some trip ideas to show how a holiday to Thailand is one your family will talk about for years to come.
"If your kids are looking for something more hands-on, consider spending time with Thailand’s indigenous hill tribes in the northern mountains. For older teens especially, this experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about traditional lifestyles and cultures that differ from their own."
Leonard Mok, Asia Specialist
Living on the Wild Side
Thailand is packed with activities that will have your teens buzzing with excitement. Whether your kids are adrenaline junkies or prefer having fun at a more laid-back pace, you'll find no shortage of activities to suit their tastes.
Younger teenagers will love the thrill of zip-lining through a forest canopy bursting with biodiversity, while older kids may want to push themselves further by white-water rafting down challenging river rapids. If your family is more into exploring nature on foot, trekking through emerald jungles will lead to unforgettable encounters with wildlife and the natural world – perfect for all ages.
And, of course, your family can't go to Thailand without visiting one of the country's ethical elephant sanctuaries. Whether feeding or bathing elephants, your children will cherish the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants. It’s a hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational, showing them the importance of wildlife conservation.
Diving into Thai Heritage
There’s no better way to introduce your children to a new culture than by diving headfirst into its heritage. Whether they're history enthusiasts or casual travellers, they’ll find themselves drawn into Thailand’s deep-rooted traditions.
Dotted throughout the country are dazzling ancient temples to explore, such as the awe-inspiring Wat Phra Chetuphon in Bangkok, home of the stunning Reclining Buddha. Younger teenagers will marvel at the grand architecture and intricate details, while older adolescents might appreciate the historical and religious significance behind each temple. Further afield, the ancient city of Ayutthaya is like stepping back in time. Your family can explore crumbling temple ruins and imagine what life was like centuries ago.
A visit to the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum in Kanchanaburi will be both educational and emotionally impactful. The museum offers a deeper understanding of Thailand’s role in WWII and the hardships faced by those who built the infamous 'Death Railway'.
Finding Luxury Shops & Street Markets
Thailand is a shopper’s paradise, and your teenagers are going to love every moment of it! Whether they’re hunting for the latest fashion trends or searching for one-of-a-kind treasures, there’s something to satisfy every shopper in your family.
In Bangkok, your family can start by zipping through the streets in a tuk-tuk, heading to the massive shopping centres such as Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, which house every type of store imaginable. Younger teenagers will appreciate the diversity and fun atmosphere, whereas older teens might gravitate toward more specialised fashion boutiques or even pop-up shops featuring local designers.
For a more authentic and cultural shopping experience, visit one of Thailand’s many night markets. The Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is a treasure trove of clothing, handmade jewellery, vintage items and unique souvenirs. Teenagers of all ages will love wandering through the seemingly endless stalls, bartering for cool finds. Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar is another fantastic option, offering a mix of trendy goods and traditional crafts.
A trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of its floating markets, where vendors sell everything from exotic fruits to handmade crafts directly from their boats. Your kids will love the novelty and excitement of this unique shopping experience.
Tasting Thai Flavours
Thailand’s food scene is a feast for the senses and your family won't want to miss a single bite. Street food tours are perfect for introducing them to a wide range of flavours, from the sweet and tangy notes of Pad Thai to the savoury richness of satay skewers. Younger teenagers who may be pickier with food will find plenty of familiar options, while older teens with adventurous palates can dine on curries of every colour.
You can also take cooking classes as a family and learn to prepare the country's most iconic dishes. This might even involve picking out fresh ingredients at local markets, giving them a full-circle experience of local cuisine. Plus, they might even want to show off their newfound skills when you all return home!
Soaking Up Sun
After days of adventure and exploration, you'll all appreciate lounging on Thailand’s pristine white-sand beaches by sparkling azure waters.
Thailand is a snorkeller's paradise, with islands like Phuket offering calm, shallow waters full of vibrant marine life, which is ideal for younger teenagers. Many family-friendly resorts also provide activities such as paddleboarding and beach volleyball, ensuring kids of all ages can stay entertained without ever leaving the shore.
For older teens who aren't done with the adrenaline-fuelled fun, participating in water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing is the perfect way to spend the day. After the excitement, they can kick back on the beach, soaking in the sun and sharing stories about their adventures.
Create Lifelong Memories with Scott Dunn
Whatever your teenagers' tastes and preferences, they'll be raving about their trip to Thailand for years to come. When you book with Scott Dunn, we'll get to know your family's every desire and craft a bespoke tour of the best destinations, activities and accommodation. You and your teens can then enjoy a truly unforgettable trip.
Anantara, Golden Triangle - Explore Three Countries in One Day
Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Uncover the mysteries of the Golden Triangle and explore the unique character and traditions of Thailand and Myanmar, with the option of adding on an experience in Laos. Where else can you say you visited three countries in a single day?
Anantara, Golden Triangle - Walking with Giants
Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Journey into the jungle on foot with the elephants and their mahouts on their daily walk, and watch as these gentle giants splash in the river or play in the mud, snack on leaves from nearby branches and socialise with the herd.
Rayavadee
Krabi, West coast beaches and islands, Thailand
Accessible only by boat, Rayavadee is a beautiful luxury resort located amongst the beauty of Krabi’s National Marine Park. It is renowned for its glorious beaches, intricately designed two-storey pavilion rooms and of course the limestone rock landscape.
Peninsula Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand
The Peninsula Bangkok is a luxury hotel of unmatched classical grandeur set on Bangkok's majestic riverside. With every room boasting magnificent river views, it offers an unrivalled panorama across this vibrant city.
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand
The Anantara is a stunning luxury hotel set high up in the lush hills of Thailand's border overlooking Myanmar and Laos, in the heart of the Golden Triangle. Explore three countries, enjoy a walk with elephants, or simply relax and take in the view.
COMO Metropolitan Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand
The minimalist Metropolitan by COMO, Bangkok is a haven for those who love contemporary, slick city escapes. It combines an urban edge with Asian flair and the result is the coolest hotel in Bangkok, located along the vibrant Sathorn Road.
Elephant Hills Tented Camp
Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
Elephant Hills Tented Camp is located in Khao Sok in Thailand and comprises two camps, the main camp is just outside the National Park and another camp is on Cheow Larn Lake within the park. Elephant Hills offers classic soft adventure experiences.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
A wonderful Four Seasons resort set in a tranquil, idyllic location. The perfect luxury base from which to explore the local culture, relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience excellent service and facilities.
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Thailand
One of the most exclusive resorts in Koh Samui, the Four Seasons comprises beautiful pool villas and an array of facilities for couples and families alike, offering a peaceful and luxurious hillside retreat on Thailand's Gulf of Siam.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Located within the city, Anantara Chiang Mai (formerly the Chedi) stylishly combines a resort feel with a prime location. It is in the heart of beautiful scenery and traditional culture and a stone's throw from the bustle of the night markets.
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand
Centrally located and set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings, the renowned Mandarin Oriental Bangkok has for 135 years been a symbol of luxury and staying here gives you the feeling of stepping back in time.
Samujana
Koh Samui, Thailand
Samujana on Koh Samui is the perfect haven for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy peace and tranquillity from the privacy of your own stunning villa. This is a villa resort experience with a difference...
Ultimate Thailand
Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai & Khao Lak
This is our definitive luxury Thailand tour. Explore the hidden delights of bustling Bangkok and immerse yourself in the cultural adventure playground of northern Thailand. You'll uncover amazing wildlife followed by relaxation on secluded beaches. We’ll introduce you to the beating heart of this wonderful country with enviable experiences.
SGD $12,400 pp
Limitless Thailand
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai & Koh Samui
Opulence, splendour and exclusivity are what you will find on this exclusive tour of Thailand. Personally curated with the help of expert guides, you'll be dazzled by the buzz of Bangkok and taken aback by the immense landscape and nature of the north. The grand finale? Jetting off to the ultra-exclusive remote private island of Koh Kood.
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your adventure to Thailand.
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