The Ultimate Hat Yai Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Perfect Days (2025 Guide)
Discover the perfect Hat Yai itinerary for an unforgettable 3-day adventure in Southern Thailand. This comprehensive guide covers what to do in Hat Yai, how many days you need, and the best attractions, food, and hotels for 2025.
How Many Days in Hat Yai? The Perfect Itinerary Length
When planning your Hat Yai itinerary, you might wonder how many days in Hat Yai are ideal. Based on our experience and traveler feedback, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Hat Yai to fully experience its diverse attractions, food scene, and cultural highlights. This Hat Yai itinerary is designed to give you a perfect balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary exploration.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to nearby attractions like Songkhla or the Thai-Malaysian border. However, for most travelers, a well-planned 3-day Hat Yai itinerary provides the ideal introduction to this vibrant Southern Thai city.
Best Time to Visit Hat Yai
The best time to visit Hat Yai is between December and February when the weather is cooler and drier. However, Hat Yai enjoys a tropical climate year-round, so you can visit anytime. The rainy season (April to November) might bring occasional showers, but it also means fewer tourists and lower prices.
Day 1: Exploring Hat Yai’s Cultural Heart
Your first day in this Hat Yai itinerary focuses on cultural attractions, temples, and getting familiar with the city center.
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Visit Wat Hat Yai Nai
Start your Hat Yai itinerary at Wat Hat Yai Nai, home to the third-largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. This impressive 35-meter long statue is a marvel of Buddhist architecture and offers a peaceful start to your day.
Explore Hat Yai Municipal Park
Next, head to Hat Yai Municipal Park where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hilltop. Don’t miss the standing Buddha statue and the cable car ride for even better vistas.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Lunch at Kim Yong Market
No Hat Yai itinerary is complete without experiencing the local food scene. Head to Kim Yong Market for authentic Southern Thai cuisine. Try the famous Hat Yai fried chicken, dim sum, and fresh fruit juices.
Visit Songkhla Central Mosque
After lunch, visit the beautiful Songkhla Central Mosque, an important Islamic landmark that showcases the religious diversity of Southern Thailand.
Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Dinner and Shopping at ASEAN Night Bazaar
As evening approaches, make your way to the ASEAN Night Bazaar. This vibrant market offers everything from local handicrafts to clothing and electronics. Enjoy dinner at one of the food stalls serving delicious Thai and Malaysian dishes.
Relax at Your Hotel
After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel to relax. We recommend staying at Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel for its central location and excellent amenities.
Day 2: Markets, Nature, and Rooftop Views
Your second day in this Hat Yai itinerary combines natural attractions, unique markets, and breathtaking city views.
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Visit Khlong Hae Floating Market
Start your day at Khlong Hae Floating Market, the only floating market in Southern Thailand. Open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, this market offers a unique shopping and dining experience from boats.
Explore Tang Kuan Hill
Next, head to Tang Kuan Hill and take the cable car to the viewpoint for spectacular panoramic views of Hat Yai and the surrounding areas.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Lunch at Santisuk Market
Enjoy lunch at Santisuk Market, known for its delicious street food and local specialties. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Khanom Jeen (rice noodles with curry) and other Southern Thai dishes.
Shopping at Central Festival Hat Yai
Beat the afternoon heat at Central Festival Hat Yai, the largest shopping mall in Southern Thailand. Here you’ll find international brands, a food court, cinema, and entertainment options.
Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Dinner with a View at Sky Bar Centara
Experience Hat Yai from above at the Sky Bar in Centara Hotel. Enjoy cocktails and delicious food while watching the sunset over the city. This is a highlight of any Hat Yai itinerary.
Book Centara HotelExplore Lee Gardens Night Market
After dinner, explore the Lee Gardens Night Market for souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks. The market comes alive in the evening with vibrant energy and plenty of shopping opportunities.
Day 3: Relaxation, Culture, and Departure
The final day of your Hat Yai itinerary focuses on relaxation, last-minute exploration, and preparing for departure.
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Visit Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang
Begin your day with a visit to Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang, a temple built inside a cave. This unique spiritual site offers a cool retreat from the heat and fascinating Buddhist artwork.
Relax at Hat Yai Waterfall
If time permits, take a short trip to Ton Nga Chang Waterfall for some nature therapy. The waterfall is especially impressive during the rainy season.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Final Food Adventure at Greenway Night Market
Enjoy your last meal in Hat Yai at Greenway Night Market, which opens in the afternoon. Try local favorites like satay, roti, and fresh seafood.
Last-Minute Shopping
Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts at one of Hat Yai’s markets or shopping centers. Dried fruits, local snacks, and traditional crafts make excellent gifts.
Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Airport Transfer
Depending on your flight schedule, arrange for transportation to Hat Yai International Airport. We recommend booking in advance for a stress-free departure.
Book Airport TransferWhere to Stay in Hat Yai: Best Hotels for Your Itinerary
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for your Hat Yai itinerary. Here are our top recommendations for different budgets:
Luxury: Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel
Located in the heart of the city with direct access to shopping malls, this hotel offers luxury amenities and stunning city views.
Luxury Central Location Shopping Book Now
Mid-Range: Centara Hotel Hat Yai
Featuring a stunning rooftop bar and pool, Centara offers excellent value with its comfortable rooms and prime location.
Mid-Range Rooftop Bar Swimming Pool Book Now
Budget: Red Planet Hat Yai
For travelers on a budget, Red Planet offers clean, comfortable rooms in a convenient location near markets and attractions.
Budget Central Value Find Budget HotelsFrequently Asked Questions About Hat Yai
Essential Resources for Your Hat Yai Itinerary
Make your trip planning easier with these helpful resources for visiting Hat Yai:
