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 — The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand

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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!

Railay Beach — The most beautiful area in Krabi

Temple in Krabi Town — Best things to do in Krabi Town

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.

The Best Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand

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!

Krabi 3 day itinerary - Tiger Cave Temple Complex — Krabi 3 day itinerary – Tiger Cave Temple Complex

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 — Krabi Night Market

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!

Check out these 18 Great Eco-Friendly Travel Products You Need to Swap for your trip to Krabi!

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:

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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