Here is a suggested itinerary for Songkhla, whether you're staying for 3 days or 5 days. Both itineraries include a mix of cultural, natural, and local experiences.
3-Day Songkhla Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Songkhla Old Town and Samila Beach
- Morning: Start your day by visiting Songkhla Old Town. Stroll through its charming streets filled with Sino-Portuguese architecture. Take time to visit the Nakhon Nai Museum and the Hub Ho Hin Red Rice Mill.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local café in the Old Town, offering southern Thai dishes like Khao Yam (rice salad) or Pad Sataw (stir-fried stink beans).
- Afternoon: Head to Samila Beach to relax by the sea and take in the view of the famous Golden Mermaid Statue. Spend some time by the shore, enjoying the cool breeze.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants near the beach. Try the freshly grilled fish or Hoi Tod (oyster omelette).
Day 2: Tang Kuan Hill and Local Markets
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Tang Kuan Hill. You can take the cable car or hike up for spectacular views of the city, Songkhla Lake, and the Gulf of Thailand. Explore the golden Buddhist stupa at the top.
- Lunch: After your visit, head to a local restaurant for lunch, perhaps trying a dish like Kanom Jeen Gang Phed (rice noodles with curry).
- Afternoon: Visit the Songkhla National Museum to learn more about the region's cultural heritage. Take a walk around Khlong Hae Floating Market to experience the unique atmosphere and try local snacks.
- Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy some street food, such as Poh Piah Tod (fried spring rolls) or Khao Pad (fried rice).
Day 3: Songkhla Lake and Relaxation
- Morning: Visit Songkhla Lake, Thailand's largest natural lake. You can take a boat tour to explore nearby islands or simply enjoy the serene environment along the shore.
- Lunch: Have lunch by the lake, with local specialties like Khao Yam or Grilled Fish.
- Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon at Chalatat Beach, or take a leisurely walk around the city.
- Evening: End your day with a stroll around Songkhla Old Town or enjoy a sunset view from Tang Kuan Hill if you didn’t get the chance earlier.
5-Day Songkhla Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Songkhla Old Town and Samila Beach
- Morning: Start your day by visiting Songkhla Old Town. Stroll through its charming streets filled with Sino-Portuguese architecture. Take time to visit the Nakhon Nai Museum and the Hub Ho Hin Red Rice Mill.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local café in the Old Town, offering southern Thai dishes like Khao Yam (rice salad) or Pad Sataw (stir-fried stink beans).
- Afternoon: Head to Samila Beach to relax by the sea and take in the view of the famous Golden Mermaid Statue. Spend some time by the shore, enjoying the cool breeze.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants near the beach. Try the freshly grilled fish or Hoi Tod (oyster omelette).
Day 2: Tang Kuan Hill and Local Markets
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Tang Kuan Hill. You can take the cable car or hike up for spectacular views of the city, Songkhla Lake, and the Gulf of Thailand. Explore the golden Buddhist stupa at the top.
- Lunch: After your visit, head to a local restaurant for lunch, perhaps trying a dish like Kanom Jeen Gang Phed (rice noodles with curry).
- Afternoon: Visit the Songkhla National Museum to learn more about the region's cultural heritage. Take a walk around Khlong Hae Floating Market to experience the unique atmosphere and try local snacks.
- Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy some street food, such as Poh Piah Tod (fried spring rolls) or Khao Pad (fried rice).
Day 3: Songkhla Lake, Ko Yo Island, and Local Culture
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Songkhla Lake for a boat tour to nearby islands. Visit Ko Yo Island, known for its cotton weaving and temples.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch on the island, sampling local dishes and seafood.
- Afternoon: Head back to Songkhla and explore some lesser-known spots such as the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum or visit a local cooking school to learn how to prepare southern Thai dishes.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering views of the lake or coastline.
Day 4: Khao Nam Khang National Park and Local Markets
- Morning: Take a day trip to Khao Nam Khang National Park, a tropical rainforest offering wildlife, streams, and historical Cold War-era tunnels. Enjoy a nature walk and the peaceful surroundings.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic or dine at a local restaurant near the park.
- Afternoon: After returning to Songkhla, visit the Khlong Hae Floating Market for a relaxed evening stroll. Try some traditional southern Thai snacks.
- Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant near the beach or at Samila Beach.
Day 5: Relaxation, Ko Yo Island, and Farewell
- Morning: Spend the morning at Chalatat Beach, a quieter spot for relaxation. Alternatively, you can visit Ko Yo Island for more exploration.
- Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside café or on the island.
- Afternoon: If you have time, visit some last-minute attractions, such as the Songkhla Central Mosque, or do some shopping in the Old Town for souvenirs.
- Evening: End your trip with a relaxing dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the sunset.
Tips for Both Itineraries:
- Transport: Use taxis, tuk-tuks, or bike rentals to get around. Walking is also a great way to explore the Old Town and beaches.
- Weather: Be prepared for hot weather, especially between March and May. Dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen.
- Cultural Respect: Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
These itineraries offer a mix of culture, nature, and local experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in Songkhla, whether you’re visiting for 3 days or 5 days.
