Vacations in Thailand with Teens

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 trip 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."

Lili LeBaron, 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 travelers, 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 centers 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 specialized 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 jewelry, 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 Flavors

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 flavors, from the sweet and tangy notes of Pad Thai to the savory 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 color.

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 snorkeler'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.