Featured image: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Temples and markets in Bangkok, then islands in Phuket. Here’s a simple 6-day Thailand plan, updated for the new 2026 entry rules.
Thailand is a classic first trip abroad for Filipinos. Bangkok gives you the city, the food and the markets. Phuket gives you the islands.
One big change first: since September 15, 2026, Filipinos can stay visa-free for up to 30 days, not 60. Read the full list in our Visa-Free Countries for Filipinos: 8 Asian Getaways.
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1. Before You Go: Thailand Entry Rules for 2026
Thailand dropped its 60-day visa exemption on September 15, 2026. The Philippines is now on the 30-day list, per Thailand’s Public Relations Department and the Royal Thai Embassy.
- Stay: up to 30 days, for tourism
- Cash: immigration may ask to see 20,000 baht per person, or 40,000 baht per family
- Arrival form: the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), within three days before arrival
Quick tip: Bring proof of funds just in case. A bank card plus some cash is a safe setup.
Photo: Bjørn Erik Pedersen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
2. Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
Keep day one easy. Check in, eat, and get a feel for the city.
- Evening: a night market or street food walk
Photo: PA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
3. Day 2: Floating Market and Railway Market
The Damnoen Saduak floating market is where vendors sell from boats. The Maeklong Railway Market is where stalls pull back their awnings as a train passes through.
The Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Railway Market day tour covers both, with a boat ride.
- Length: about a day trip
- Another option: the floating markets day tour from Bangkok
Quick tip: Go early. The floating market is best in the morning.
Photo: Lerdsuwa / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
4. Day 3: Safari World Bangkok
Safari World is a favorite for families. You drive through the safari park, then walk through the marine park and its shows.
The Safari World Bangkok ticket comes in several packages, including add-ons like transfers and a buffet.
- Ticket: date-specific
Quick tip: Kids in the group? Make this your Bangkok highlight.
Photo: Arnaud-Victor Monteux / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
5. Day 4: Fly to Phuket
Take a morning flight to Phuket. Spend the afternoon at the beach and rest up for tomorrow.
- Evening: sunset and seafood
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
6. Day 5: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
The Phi Phi Islands are the big reason people go to Phuket. A speedboat tour takes you around the islands for snorkeling and swimming.
The Phi Phi Islands speedboat day tour leaves from Phuket. For more stops, try the Phi Phi, Maya and Bamboo tour.
- National park fee: may be charged separately
- Maya Bay: can close for weather or nature recovery, so check before you book
Quick tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for your phone.
Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
7. Day 6: Last Swim, Then Fly Home
Enjoy a slow morning, then head to the airport.
- Morning: beach or a café
- Afternoon: souvenirs and airport
Photo: Piyatad / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
8. Quick Summary of the 6 Days
- Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
- Day 2: Floating and railway markets
- Day 3: Safari World
- Day 4: Fly to Phuket
- Day 5: Phi Phi Islands
- Day 6: Fly home
City and markets first, islands after. Six days is enough to see both sides of Thailand, as long as you stay within the new 30-day limit.
Read next: Visa-Free Countries for Filipinos: 8 Asian Getaways · Vietnam Itinerary: Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang in 5 Days · Your First Stamp: 6 Stress-Free Countries for Your First Trip Abroad