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Getaways From Bangkok

The 9 Best Places to Visit Outside Bangkok

Bangkok certainly has its gritty charm. After all, it was the most visited city in the world in several different years, even surpassing New York and London. But beyond enjoying some obligatory post-trip shopping, rampant heat, traffic, and pollution aren’t exactly an ideal end to a relaxing vacation. Fortunately, there are plenty of good opportunities for day trips near Bangkok.

Unless you’re a big fan, forget touring the crocodile farms and tourist-oriented floating markets that surround Bangkok. Instead, end your trip with something more memorable!

Many of the best places to visit near  Bangkok  are within 4 or 5 hours of the city. Although technically you could get there and back with an early start, you’ll probably want to slow down and enjoy them by spending a night or two.

Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi , two highly historic options, are within an easy striking distance of Bangkok, but if you’re craving sand and sunsets before heading home, you'll find the country's beautiful islands tempting.

The Ancient City in Samut Prakan

The easiest, nearest option on this list of Bangkok day trips definitely doesn’t require an overnight stay. The Ancient City (also commonly called "Ancient Siam") is just about an hour away. If you only have an afternoon to spare and want to get away from Bangkok’s concrete embrace, head an hour south for a pleasant escape.

Wandering the beautifully manicured 200 acres of the Ancient City provides a microcosm of Thai culture and history. The atmosphere is romantic. Famous archaeological sites—some of which are difficult to reach or no longer standing—have been tastefully recreated. Photogenic monuments, temple replicas, Buddha statues, and gardens provide a peaceful respite from the city along with a chance to learn a bit about Thailand. In fact, the entire park is actually shaped like Thailand.

The grounds are expansive, so if the walking is too much, bicycles and golf carts can be rented. Guided tram tours are available. The relatively steep entrance fee of 700 baht (around $22) is cut in half at 4 p.m. The Ancient City closes at 7 p.m.

To get there, bypass some of Bangkok’s perpetual traffic jam along Sukhumvit by taking the Skytrain to On Nut station. Try not to laugh about the name, then switch to a taxi or Grab (Bangkok's equivalent of Uber). Tell the driver you want to visit the Ancient City (Muang Boran).

Although Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767, is often visited as a day trip from Bangkok, an optional overnight stay will provide proper time to enjoy.

On a day trip, you’ll be rushed trying to see so many ruins in a single afternoon and ultimately miss the ancient vibe that permeates the place. The Burmese sacked the old capital in 1767, causing it to be moved downriver to where Bangkok stands today.

The crumbling temples and headless Buddha statues of Ayutthaya (properly pronounced "ai-yoot-tai-yah") are best enjoyed in much the same way as Angkor Wat in Cambodia : by renting a bicycle.

Centuries of Thai history can be absorbed by exploring the many temples, structures, and museums. You may even find yourself alone, awash in archeology, at some of the less popular temple sites.

The best way to get to Ayutthaya is by train. You’ll glide past much of Bangkok’s traffic while enjoying some authentic scenery. Depending on which train service you choose, the journey takes around 2 hours. You can purchase a ticket yourself for one of the many daily trains at the Hualamphong Railway Station.

Kanchanaburi

Located west of Bangkok at the confluence of three rivers, Kanchanaburi is a relatively quick escape from the hectic pace of Thailand’s capital.

But arriving in Kanchanaburi doesn’t feel much more peaceful—at least until you get out of the busy part of the city and choose one of the many guesthouses with pleasant gardens stretched along the river.

The French novel "The Bridge Over the River Kwai" was set in Kanchanaburi. The bridge and most of the story in the film were highly fictionalized. Technically, the bridge in the movie should have been "The Bridge Over the River Mae Klong." And River Kwai should be "Khwae Yai."

Regardless, the important bridge in Kanchanaburi was one of many that were part of the infamous "Death Railway" constructed and repaired by forced POW labor. The infamous "Hellfire Pass" is nearby. World War II history abounds in the area. Visit the museum and one of the war cemeteries to learn the real story.

The cascading waterfalls of nearby Erawan National Park are a great way to forget about how much history and Hollywood often disagree. Plan to cool off in one of the turquoise pools along the hike.

Kanchanaburi can be reached from Bangkok via bus or train; however, buses and mini-buses are the most popular options because trains depart from Thonburi Station, across the Chao Phraya River in the northwest part of Bangkok. The two daily trains take around 3 hours to reach Kanchanaburi. Getting there by bus may take up to 5 hours, depending on traffic and tenacity of your driver.

At around 4 hours from Bangkok, Koh Samet is just slightly out of day trip range, but that doesn’t stop it from attracting a lot of travelers who would rather spend their last day or two in Thailand on a beach.

Although Koh Samet has all the usual ingredients of a Thai island (beautiful beaches, fire shows, and bucket drinks), it somehow misses the chill vibe that permeates Koh Lanta , Koh Tao , and other islands. Regardless, if you’re short on days before flying out of Bangkok, Koh Samet is an excellent choice for cleaner air and a fire-show cocktail.

The easiest way to get to Koh Samet is to purchase a bus-boat combo ticket, on offer from every travel agent in Bangkok. If you still want to make your own way, get help finding one of the minivans that frequently depart from Victory Monument; they run directly to the ferry pier. Once at the dock, you can purchase your boat ticket for the short hop to the island. Beware: there isn’t much room for luggage in the local minivans.

Koh Si Chang

Not to be confused with the much larger Koh Chang, Koh Si Chang is a small island situated close to Pattaya. Although beaches aren’t as nice due to the rocks and heavy boat traffic, at only 3 hours away or so, it is tantalizingly convenient. The island serves as a weekend getaway for locals who want to be nearer to the sea. Peace prevails on the island, unlike nearby Pattaya.

Koh Si Chang is home to a royal summer palace no longer in use, a small community, temples, and several interesting caves.

Getting to Koh Si Chang requires passing through Sri Racha in Chonburi Province, the namesake of the highly celebrated hot sauce. The trip takes around 3 hours, including an hour on the ferry.

Often transliterated as “Koh Larn,” Koh Laan (Coral Island) is Koh Si Chang’s little island neighbor to the south. Koh Laan is slightly closer to Pattaya and offers better beaches and sand than those found on the mainland or Koh Si Chang. The island isn’t exactly undeveloped (yes, there is a 7-Eleven); however, the atmosphere is relaxed.

Koh Laan ends up being a quick jaunt for travelers and locals in Pattaya who go over for swimming and seafood. There isn’t much to do on Koh Laan aside from sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming—but that’s the point!

Ferries from Pattaya take around an hour, or you can cut travel time in half and have more fun by upgrading to a longtail speedboat. Watch out for the resident monkeys on the island; they’ve been known to rob bags left on the beach.

Koh Chang (Elephant Island), is the second largest island in Thailand—Phuket is the only one larger—and it’s the nicest island escape near Bangkok. Unlike Koh Samet and Koh Si Chang, the island is big enough to accommodate both extremes: finding a nightclub party or escaping into bamboo-hut tranquility.

Koh Chang has mutated from the “ backpacker paradise” as it was once known. Proximity to Bangkok accelerated high-end development in the last decade.

But White Sand Beach still lives up to its name, despite beach buffets fighting for room on the powdery sand. Fortunately, smaller beaches can be found around the island where reggae bars and hammocks are still the norms.

The most comfortable and most economical choice is to let a travel agent book a bus-boat combo ticket to the island. But if spending 5 hours on a bus sounds miserable, you can take a one-hour Bangkok Airways flight to Trat Airport then get your own ferry to the island.

The Floating Vineyards

Although Thailand doesn’t have much of a wine legacy, the unique "floating vineyards" situated 40 miles south of Bangkok in Samut Sakhon provide an exciting day trip from the city.

Fresh fruit from Thailand is often sweet and way tastier than average, so there is some potential to produce good products. The local "Spy" brand of wine coolers are a popular drink to balance the heat of the afternoon and the spiciness of the food.

The floating vineyards don’t really float, but they are built on fertile land reclaimed annually from the Chao Phraya River delta. Workers push small boats between the narrow rows to do their pruning. Visitors can take a tour and sample products, but the operation is oriented around actual production, not accommodating tourists. Facilities aren’t very accessible for disabled travelers.

Siam Winery is one of the largest and most popular vineyards to visit. Contact a travel agent in Bangkok, as you'll need a guide to have access. Tours run for approximately 4 hours and are best enjoyed during Thailand’s dry season (November to April).

Located around 4 hours southwest of Bangkok, Hua Hin is one of the most popular coastal (non-island) beach choices in Thailand. The city is home to many Western expats; the wide beach attracts local and international families.

Over three miles of beach provide room for everyone. Major hotel chains and restaurants occupy the main strip with numerous spas squeezed between. But to Hua Hin's credit, some greenery still remains on nearby hills.

Khao Takiab (Chopsticks Hill) occupies the southern end of the beach and provides an excellent view of the full length of Hua Hin. The Buddha statues on top provide ambiance for taking in gorgeous sunsets—but beware of the many cheeky monkeys that consider the hill their own.

Golf is a popular activity in Hua Hin; the courses are among the best in Thailand and have attracted top players for decades. Medical tourism has surged in the area, along with a relatively new abundance of wellness centers. A couple of shopping malls, a night bazaar, and numerous other markets offer plenty of shopping.

Although slower, the train is the most enjoyable and convenient way to get from Bangkok to Hua Hin. Taking the train eliminates transfers and allows for more interesting scenery. Plus, the railway station is right in the center of Hua Hin, making for a very convenient arrival.

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Getting Around Bangkok: Guide to Public Transportation

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10 EPIC Day Trips from Bangkok (Do Not Miss These in 2024)

• Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Read on to discover the 10 best day trips from Bangkok that allow you to escape the city and see more of Thailand !

Bangkok undoubtedly has a place on every traveller’s Thailand itinerary . 

It is the capital city and the most populated place in the country and has two major international airports that connect tourists from all over the world. 

Bangkok is vibrant and exciting, with its thriving entertainment scene and nightlife and its gorgeous temples and attractions. 

Once you’ve seen the best part of Bangkok you may be keen to move on and explore more of Thailand . 

Rather than constantly being on the move and sleeping in a new bed every night, it can be more convenient and even more affordable to just stay in Bangkok for a few extra days and take some day trips out of the city. 

There are lots of day trips out of Bangkok that allow you to see a new part of Thailand and then return to Bangkok later in the same day. 

Whether you book one of the many Bangkok day tours, or just venture out on your own and take public transport, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the areas surrounding the city. 

The great part about Bangkok day trips is the journey there and back usually won’t take more than a few hours. 

So you can chill out and relax on public transport or your tour bus before and after your day of exploring. 

Table of Contents

Getting There:

Best day trips from bangkok.

Here is a list of the 10 best day trips from Bangkok. From islands, floating markets, and vineyards on the Chao Phraya River, to temples, historic villages and more, there is lots to see outside the city!

1) Ayutthaya

This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam is easily one of the best day trips from Bangkok. 

The country of Thailand used to be the Kingdom of Siam, and its capital city was Ayutthaya until 1767. 

Nowadays, the ruined yet still standing city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists can come and see the remnants of this once powerful kingdom. 

Throughout the grounds, you can find stone ruins of palaces, temples, and Buddha statues. 

The biggest and most popular temples to visit are Wat Na Phra Mane, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Mahathat . Be sure to look for the mysterious head of Buddha nestled in the tree roots outside Wat Mahathat. 

Ayutthaya is packed with things to see and the area is quite spread out, so you may want to hire a tuk-tuk to drive you around for a few hours. It costs roughly 1,000 Baht for the day. 

If you want to save money and you’re feeling active, you can rent a bicycle for only 40 Baht for the day and cycle through the ancient city. 

The easiest way to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok by public transport is by taking the train. The journey takes just over 2 hours.

Another option is booking a guided tour so you can learn more about the significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy comfortable private transport.

We recommend this tour on Klook .

2) Erawan National Park

This national park founded in 1975 is a hidden gem of Thailand. 

Not many people know about it, but it is overflowing with natural beauty and is one of the best day trips out of Bangkok, especially if you book it as a tour .

The main attraction of the park is Erawan Falls , a gorgeous, 7-tier waterfall with sapphire natural pools at the base.

You can swim in the pools, climb up the walking trails surrounding the waterfall, and bring a picnic (although you’re not allowed to bring food past the 2nd tier of the waterfall). 

Other attractions in Erawan National Park include Ta Duang Cave which is filled with ancient rock paintings and Tha Thung Na Village where you can see incredible traditional pottery. 

The entrance fee to the park is 300 Baht. You can rent a bicycle to cruise around the park if you wish, and it only costs 20 Baht per day.

The best way to get to Erawan National Park from Bangkok is by minivan.

It costs around 300 Baht and takes 4 hours, so the journey is long but if you’re truly looking for some spectacular natural beauty, the journey is worth it.

Or you can take the easier, more efficient way, and book yourself in for a guided tour from the city . This tour combines the park with the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi as well.

READ MORE: Play your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide .

3) Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Another top day trip from Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. 

Located in the Ratchaburi Province, about 1.5 hours away from Bangkok, this is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a sensory roller coaster, with local vendors floating in their long tail boats decked out in colourful traditional garments and selling a multitude of different products. 

Some of the most common things sold at the floating market are local food dishes and produce, flowers, trinkets, and souvenirs. 

Because Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is so famous, it is very touristy and can get crowded. 

If you can, arrive super early in the morning to beat the crowds and see more of the authentic side of the floating market before the locals start catering to the tourists.

If you’re really interested in this type of day trip, you could also visit Amphawa Floating Market. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to Amphawa Floating Market, so you can easily visit the two in one day.

The cheapest way to reach Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is by taking a public bus from the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok. The buses leave every 40 minutes starting at 6 am and the journey costs 50 Baht. 

Public buses will drop you off about 1 km away from the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, so you’ll need to hire a boat to get to your destination. 

If you’d prefer to book a tour that takes you directly to the market and guides you to the best places, that is an option as well !

4) Kanchanaburi

Another one of the best day trips from Thailand is Kanchanaburi . This quaint Thai town is not very touristy compared to Bangkok, so it’s a great way to see the local way of life.

This town is most famous for two things: The Bridge on the River Kwai and the Death Railway. Both landmarks were created during World War II, and the town is home to other notable monuments from the war.

The Thai Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway, was built by Prisoners of War and laborers of the Japanese army who were occupying Thailand.

A popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi is riding the slow train journey of the Death Railway and seeing the countryside.

The Bridge on the River Kwai is a steel bridge that was also built by war prisoners during World War II. Walk across the famous bridge and snap some photos, as it’s one of the town’s most well-known landmarks.

Kanchanaburi also has numerous museums and temples to check out. It’s a cool place to learn about history and local culture.

You can easily travel to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok by train, minibus, or taxi. The journey is about 2 hours.

You can also book a guided tour with Klook which is pretty affordable and takes you to all the highlights.

5) Wat Saman Rattanaram

If you’re interested in Eastern religions and are fascinated by Thailand’s temples, this is an awesome Bangkok day trip to take. 

Wat Saman Rattanaram is home to the largest reclining Ganesh statue in all of Thailand.  

Ganesh is a Hindu deity in the form of an elephant, and in this particular statue standing at 16 meters tall and 22 meters long, Ganesh is painted bright pink. 

This site is a significant reminder of the relationship between Hindu and Buddhist faiths in Thailand. 

Though the deity is Hindu, the temple complex surrounding the statue is full of street markets and shops selling both Hindu and Buddhist relics and trinkets.

To reach Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok, you can take a two-hour minibus from the Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal to the town of Chachoengsao which costs about 18 Baht.

There is a pickup from Chachoengsao to the actual temple.  Find more info here .

READ MORE: Start planning your trip to Bangkok with this perfect 3-day itinerary !

If you are craving some sunshine, sand, and sea but don’t have time to visit the Thai islands, you can always take a day trip from Bangkok to the seaside city of Pattaya. 

This is probably the closest beach town to Bangkok, so it’s an easy ocean getaway to escape the city life. 

Pattaya used to be a tiny fishing village, but recently it’s been overrun with tourism and is now filled with hotels, bars, and restaurants. 

But Jomtien Beach is still as beautiful as ever, and there are two gorgeous temples that remain preserved in their traditional state: Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth . 

Book your entry ticket to the Sanctuary of Truth on Klook!

It is very easy to reach Pattaya from Bangkok by public transport on a day trip.

The journey is about 1.5 hours and costs around 100 Baht, and there are lots of different public buses leaving Bangkok every two hours. 

7) Floating Vineyards

Most people probably wouldn’t think to visit a winery or a vineyard in Southeast Asia. But there are actually a few great ones that make for lovely day trips from Bangkok. 

In Samut Sakhon on the Chao Phraya River Delta you can find the “Floating Vineyards”, which are just normal vineyards that appear to be floating on water because the irrigation canals in between each row of grapes are super deep. 

The soil is very fertile and receives lots of rainfall, especially during monsoon season, so the vineyard has to be carefully maintained to ensure the crops don’t collapse into the water. 

But the canopies of grapevines hanging over the canals are such a cool sight to see. And locals harvest the grapes by floating down the canals on wooden boats and picking the grapes by hand. 

The best time to visit the floating vineyard is between November April as that’s when the harvest season is. 

Samut Sakhon is 60 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, and you can get there by minibus, taxi, or train. 

READ MORE: Looking for ideas on what to do in Bangkok? Our epic blog post will tell you everything you need to know!

8) Khao Yai National Park 

To escape the crowded city and immerse yourself in nature, visit Khao Yai National Park. 

Like Erawan National Park, the journey from Bangkok takes about 4 hours. But if you’re a true wilderness-lover, you won’t regret the long hours on the bus. 

As Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai National Park was established in 1962 and reaches all the way to the Cambodian border. 

The park is full of forests and grasslands that are home to many animals including elephants, monkeys, bears, and more. 

Some of the best activities in the Khao Yai National Park include hiking or biking along the many trails, rafting on the Khun Dan Prakan Chon Chan River, and hiking to some magnificent waterfalls. 

Wang Ta Kari Waterfall and Haew Narok Waterfall are two particularly scenic waterfalls to visit. 

You can reach Khao Yai National Park from Bangkok by public bus or by train. The bus costs around 150-200 Baht, and the train can be anywhere between 100 and 1,000 Baht depending on the class of ticket you get. 

You can also book a 1 day, 2 day, or 3 day tours to Khao Yai National Park with a local guide on Klook .

9) The Ancient City of Mueang Boran

For an interesting day trip from Bangkok packed with history and culture, head south to the province of Samut Prakan to see the ancient city of Mueang Boran.

This collection of buildings is like a giant, outdoor museum full of monuments and opportunities to learn about Thai history, religion, and architecture. 

You can tour the ruined temples and palaces of the ancient city and admire the statues around the area that show different yoga poses. 

Lots of famous and historic Thai buildings that have been destroyed over time have been rebuilt here to showcase their original design, so it’s a lovely look into Thailand’s past.

You can also visit the Erawan Museum to see traditional Thai art and furniture and a huge three-headed elephant statue, or stroll through the King Rama IX Park and relax by the lake. 

To get around the park a bit more quickly, you can also rent a bicycle or take a tram tour. 

The entrance fee to the ancient city is 500 Baht, and it is close enough to Bangkok that the easiest way to get there is to just take a taxi from the city. 

READ MORE: Be sure to add these activities to your list of things to do in Thailand !

10) Koh Kret Island

This man-made island in the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi Province is a culturally enriching Bangkok day trip. 

The traditionally isolated indigenous Mon people of the Koh Kret area continue their unique customs and traditions here, and tourists have the privilege of witnessing this special culture. 

One of the Mon people’s most treasured art forms is their pottery, usually made using unglazed terra-cotta and engraved with impressive designs and details. 

You can visit the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum to admire a massive collection of Mon ceramics, or maybe catch a glimpse of the native Mon people still crafting their pottery near the river.

Another highlight of Koh Kret Island is Wat Paramaiyikawat . This Buddhist temple is home to a golden stupa that is 200 years old and supposedly holds relics of the Buddha.

To reach Koh Kret Island from Bangkok, you can take a 15-minute taxi ride for 200 Baht, or a 30-minute public bus ride for 20 Baht to reach the town of Nonthaburi. From there, a long tail boat ticket to Koh Kret Island costs 100 Baht. 

Or if you want to skip the hassle of public transport, you can always book a day tour to the island !

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Interesting list of trips from Bangkok. I went once to Pattaya but I don’t like it much…

Thanks for reading Damian. We were the same also. 🙂

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Asia » Thailand » 14 Great Places to Visit Near Bangkok Right Now

14 Great Places to Visit Near Bangkok Right Now

What's In This Guide?

What are the best places to visit near bangkok.

A quick escape from Bangkok’s busy streets and sprawling centre might seem tough, but think again. You’ll be surprised by how many great places you can visit near Bangkok, and visit easily.

Shower under a waterfall. Sunbake on an island. Wander through a buzzing market. There is an adventure here for you.

The following places near Bangkok are within 3 hours (one-way) of the city. Some destinations are best visited with two or more days, I’ll let you know which ones.

Visiting Bangkok Soon? Don’t Miss This EPIC Guide 50+ Destinations, Food & Bars Get Your Copy Now 👇

Markets Near Bangkok

Think markets are just for shopping? You’re wrong! Thais visit markets to explore, socialize, eat and drink. The most important part is actually eating, so there is lots of food around.

There are loads of markets around Bangkok; floating markets, train markets, night markets…  the opportunities are endless. Here are some of my favourites.

1. Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market is one of the most unique places to visit near Bangkok. It is located Samut Songkhram, about 1.5 hours west of Bangkok.

You will find a busy market sprawled across a train line where trains actually arrive every hour! Crazy right? You have to see it to believe it. Vendors mostly sell fruit, vegetables, and seafood and aren’t pushy like at touristy markets in Bangkok so you get a nice authentic vibe.

The market runs 7 days a week so it is super easy to visit any time.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Maeklong Railway Market including how to get there and opening hours

2. Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram, and is the largest floating market near Bangkok. It is located just down the road from the Maeklong Railway Market, easily combined into a great one day trip from Bangkok.

Years ago Bangkok was built around canals. Over time many canals were filled in but some floating markets survived, most on the outskirts of Bangkok. Nowadays you will find lots of small boats selling everything from Pad Thai to grilled seafood, souvenirs, fresh fruits and more.

The Amphawa Floating Market is open on weekends. It is usually quite busy with Thais visiting from Bangkok. Expect a crowded, but lively market.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Amphawa Floating Market including directions

3. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

The Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is located in Taling Chang, in the north of Bangkok. It takes about an hour to get here from the city center.

There is more food and far fewer people here, so this is my No.1 floating market near Bangkok. Attention all foodies!

Start with lunch sitting by the canal slurping down a bowl of “Boat Noodles” like a local. This is a dish of rice noodles in pig’s blood soup. Trust me, it tastes better than it sounds.

Walk around the canals to work off lunch, then jump on a longtail boat to tour around Taling Chan. Longtail boat trips run for about half an hour and are a great way to see the local way of life.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market including public transport directions

Waterfalls Near Bangkok

I really love waterfalls, you cannot say you’ve seen Thailand’s nature without visiting one. There are some great waterfalls near Bangkok for you to explore too! Wander through the forest, and shower under a waterfall nature’s way, it’s an amazing experience.

4. Erawan Falls National Park

Erawan Falls are one of my favorite places to visit near Bangkok for a nature escape. I’ve visited the Erawan Falls more than ten times and listed them as one of the five must-see waterfalls in Thailand . Do you agree?

Water flows all year but it’s best to visit during the wet season (April to October). The park can close during very heavy rain due to safety concerns. Throughout the dry season, the pools have water but the stream can be just a trickle.

You can visit as a long day trip from Bangkok, but there are so many other attractions in Kanchanaburi that it’s worth staying a few nights. Check out my detailed guide to Kanchanaburi for plenty more destinations nearby.

Read More: my detailed full day breakdown Bangkok to Erawan Falls

5. Wang Takhrai Waterfall

Wang Takhrai is anot her great waterfall near Bangkok located in Nakhon Nayok Province. Unlike the Erawan Falls, Wang Takhrai Waterall is hardly known to westerners.

This isn’t a tall waterfall, but a series of rapids flowing through the forest. The water is deep enough to swim in all year round. You can also hire inflatable tubes in the park and cruise down the river. It’s similar to tubing in Vang Vieng but without the parties and tourists.

Want to stay overnight? Ask about campsites, tents, and bungalows at the national park headquarters. It’s the perfect nature escape from Bangkok.

How to get there – you will need private transport to get to Wang Takhrai Waterfall. Hire a car in Bangkok or charter a taxi for the day. The trip takes about 2hrs one way.

6. Haew Suwat Waterfall (Khao Yai National Park)

Haew Suwat is a huge waterfall located in Khao Yai National Park, one of the closest national parks to Bangkok. This waterfall was one of the filming locations for the movie The Beach .

It is best to visit Haew Suwat Waterfall as part of a bigger trip to Khao Yai National Park. There are lots of jungle hiking trails in Khao Yai NP which are amazing to explore.  The national park is also home to animals like elephants, bears, leopards, deer, otters, and gibbons.

Want to stay overnight? Try camping in Khao Yai National Park and go for a morning swim under the waterfall. There are also lots of guesthouses in Pak Chong near the park’s northern entrance.

How to get there – join a small group tour from Bangkok, the drivers will know about Haew Suwat Waterfall.

Islands Near Bangkok

So you think that all the Thai islands are located far away in the south? Well, I’m about to blow your mind. Koh Phangan, Phuket, and Koh Lanta are not the only Thai islands! There are actually lots of amazing islands near Bangkok which you need to know about too!

I’ve only included three islands here; Koh Chang, Koh Samae San, and Koh Larn. If you head a little further east from Koh Chang you can also visit Koh Mak and Koh Kood (which is probably my favorite Thai island).

7. Koh Chang Island

Koh Chang is an amazing tropical island located just a few hours from Bangkok off the coast of Trat. That’s the last province as you head east to Cambodia. Note: it is best to visit Koh Chang if you have at least 3 days available.

Koh Chang has loads of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, waterfalls, snorkeling, scuba diving, incredible mountain lookouts, or just relaxing on the beach. You can even go island hopping to beautiful places like Koh Wai, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. There’s plenty of boats which depart from the southern end of the island at Bang Bao Pier.

Looking for a party vibe? Make sure you visit Lonely Beach where you will find Reggae Bars, beach parties, cheap hostels, and lots of restaurants.

Read More: my review of the top beaches on Koh Chang island

8. Koh Samae San

Koh Samae San is one of my favorite islands near Bangkok for a quick day trip. It is located just 1.5km off the coast of Rayong which is reached by a short ferry trip. The island is managed by the Thai Navy so National Park rules apply; entry fees, no drinking alcohol, no littering, etc…

There are no hotels or resorts on Koh Samae San, so you won’t be able to stay here overnight. There are, however, some amazing white sandy beaches, great snorkelling spots, and perfectly clear water for swimming.

How to get there (solo) – take a bus or van from Ekkamai bus station to Pattaya Central, then catch a taxi to Koh Samae San pier.

How to get there (guided) – spend about 6 hours on the island which is plenty, and have all private transport included with this guide from around $70 per person. Not a bad deal!

9. Koh Larn

Koh Larn is located just off the coast of Pattaya, about 2hrs drive from Bangkok. It is pretty much the closest island to Bangkok worth visiting (apart from those in the Chao Praya River). Check out Tawaen Beach on the north coast, and Tien Beach on the west coast. If you want to spend a night on Koh Larn, your best option is the east coast, where you will find lots of budget and boutique hotels.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 190 THB (USD 6) per person. This trip takes about 2hrs one way. You need to take a songtaew from the minivan station to Pattaya South Wharf, then hop on the ferry to Koh Larn. The ferry to Koh Larn costs 30 THB per person and takes about 30 minutes.

10. Koh Kret

This is one of the closest islands near Bangkok, but it’s not what you expect. Koh Kret is actually a man-made island in The Chao Praya River.

The island is inhabited by people of the Mon ethnicity, similar to those you’ll find in Sangkhlaburi. There is a traditional pottery village where you can buy some authentic handmade crafts really cheap. The village is mixed in with community small farms and some nature along the water. It really feels like a throwback to an early day Bangkok.

After exploring the island be sure to drop into the local microbrewery for some of the best beers around Bangkok. You will find this, and loads of other local things to do in Bangkok in my huge city guide.

Read More: my detailed guide to Koh Kret Island including directions ad top attractions

Other Cities Near Bangkok

There are a few cities near Bangkok in the surrounding provinces which I suggest visiting. Each has its own vibe, and you will quickly realize that Bangkok is not home to everyone in Thailand.

11. Ayutthaya – Ancient City

A trip to Thailand would not be complete without visiting the Ayutthaya Historical Park . This is one of the main historical places to visit near Bangkok. Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 and later become the ancient capital city of Thailand (then known as Siam). By the year 1700 is was apparently the largest city in the world.

There are countless temples all around Ayutthaya, which are open every day. The most iconic temples to visit include; Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Matathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet. if you love the temples in Ayutthaya, then you must check out these 12 temples in Bangkok too!

Getting to Ayutthaya is easy by train, minivan or bus and takes about 1 to 1.5hrs each way. With trains being as slow as they are in Thailand the minivan is the quicker option. It is also possible to get to Ayutthaya by boat however it takes much longer and needs to be organized in advance as a tour.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 90 THB (USD 3) per person. This direct trip takes about 2hrs one way.

12. Kanchanaburi – Death Railway

Kanchanaburi has the most World War 2 History you will find near Bangkok and in all of Thailand. Prisoners of War captured by the Japanese were forced into slave labor to build what is now known as the Death Railway. It consists of a number of sites including the Bridge Over the River Kwai, Hellfire Pass, and other sections of track.

The best starting place to visit these sites is Kanchanaburi, but also possible in a one day trip from Bangkok.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 150 THB (USD 5) per person. This direct trip takes about 3hrs one way.

13. Hua Hin – Beaches

Hua Hin is located southwest of Bangkok along the highway which heads towards the islands in Surat Thani. You will find long sandy beaches and lots of great local food here. The beaches in Hua Hin are regarded as some of the best in Southeast Asia for windsurfing, so whether you’re a pro or just want to get started, then you better make a trip here.

Hua Hin is more developed than the smaller islands in southern and eastern Thailand. Expect to find lots of large hotels along the beach, and smaller hostels a few streets back in town.

How to get there – buses and minivans depart regularly from Ekkamai Bus Station and take about 3hrs for a one-way trip. Alternatively, trains depart from Hua Lampong and take about 4hrs for a one-way trip.

14. Rayong – Thung Prong Thong Mangrove Forest

A mangrove forest might not be top on your list of places to visit near Bangkok, however, this one is worth it. The golden Thung Prong Thong Mangrove forest covers a massive 2,400 acres along the coast of Rayong province.

Explore the coastal biodiversity along the extensive stretch of elevated wooden boardwalks. While the most popular sight is the sprawling golden mangrove forest, expect to see animals including crabs and rare wetland birds. To explore further into the wetland you can also hop on board a 20-minute longtail boat ride near the entrance of the park.

How to get there – you will need your own private transport to get to Thung Prong Thong. I suggest hiring a car in Bangkok for the day.

Visiting Bangkok Soon?

With well over 10 million people, Bangkok is a total megacity. This often makes it quite daunting for first time travellers.

How do you get around? What should you see? But what about all the tourist scams? It’s easy to get information overload and miss out on the amazing culture this city has to offer.

After having lived in Bangkok for over 7 years, I’ve compiled all my top tips and local’s perspectives into this easy to use Bangkok Travel Guide .

Check it out, I reckon you’ll love it. And if you’ve got any questions you’re more than welcome to shoot across a message.

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11 Best Day Trips from Bangkok to Escape the Crowds

Through my 2 month long backpacking trip in Thailand, I stayed in Bangkok for a full week. It became a place for me to slow down and relax after the non stop travel around the southern parts of the country. So I didn’t do a lot here: explored a 24 hour Bangkok itinerary with the TAGTHAi Pass , ate a lot and also explored some of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Bangkok was anyway too fast for my liking so the only way to escape the bustling streets of the city would be by embarking on unforgettable day trips from Bangkok. This guide to the best day trips from Bangkok (as recommended by fellow travel bloggers) will unveil the top destinations that promise to elevate your travel experience beyond the urban landscape of Thailand’s capital city.

From ancient ruins steeped in history to lush national parks teeming with wildlife, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry. By going on day trips from Bangkok, you get to discover the timeless allure of Ayutthaya, the once majestic capital of the Kingdom of Siam, or immerse yourself in the serenity of Khao Yai National Park, home to verdant landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and exotic wildlife. There is also the floating market of Damnoen Saduak offering a glimpse into traditional Thai life, and a lot of other destinations in this “best day trips from Bangkok” guide.

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Mae Klong Railway Market (Hoop Rom Market)

Mae Klong Railway Market, located in Samut Songkhram Province, is renowned for its unique feature – a bustling marketplace set directly on active train tracks. Vendors skillfully arrange their stalls along the rails, swiftly retracting them and clearing their stalls to make way for the passing train, just moments before the train arrives – several times a day, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok!

The market is also nicknamed “Talat Hoop Rom” or the “Umbrella Pulldown Market,” reflecting the swift folding of umbrellas that shield vendors’ wares. It’s an exhilarating experience to see everything happening in real time. Make sure to hold on tight as the train passes by, as it can get quite close to the shops and stalls.

Riding the train through the Maeklong Railway Market is another unique activity you can enjoy. You can board one of the commuter trains running on the Mae Klong line and have an interesting journey into the market as well. Trains to Maeklong leave from Wongwian Yai Train Station and cost only about 20 THB. They also run very slow so you can get a full experience of the market.

From fresh seafood to local produce like tropical fruits and handicrafts, spices and herbs, and local snacks – Mae Klong is also a great place to go souvenir shopping in Thailand . The market offers an overall vibrant, sensory experience making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

👉Check out this combined Mae Klong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour !

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

By Lavina of Continet Hop

100 km southwest of Bangkok is the Floating Market at Damnoen Saduak. Colourful boats bringing fresh produce and other things are a hallmark of this famous market. Visitors can enjoy the colourful environment, eat local cuisine, and buy unique goods from the canalside boats and kiosks. Meeting nice sellers, eating authentic Thai street cuisine, and taking gorgeous photos make it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Buses and vans leave from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal for Damnoen Saduak. You can take a short taxi ride to get to the market from there. It’s a great day trip because it only takes two hours. 

It’s okay if you don’t speak the language. Just join a tour group . Most include round-trip transportation and a market guide. Visiting Damnoen Saduak is a highlight of your  1 month in Thailand .

Between 7 and 9 AM is the best time to go before all the other people show up and it gets too hot. The light is also great for taking pictures because it lets you see all the bright colours and exciting scenes in the market.

Both independent trips and tour groups have their pros and cons. For solo travellers, these trips give you more freedom to go at your own speed. People who are short on time or who would rather have a more planned experience, on the other hand, may find a tour group useful and easy.

👉Check out this Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour !

Alternatively, you can also consider the Amphawa Floating Market along with Mae Klong.

Kanchanaburi

By Sarah of A Social Nomad

Bangkok to Kanchanaburi  is just a two-hour trip which makes it a great option for a Bangkok day trip . The city is most famous in recent history for being home to the World War II Death Railway and the bridge made famous in the book and movie, the Bridge over the River Kwai.

It certainly is one of the best day trips from Bangkok – there are many WWII sites here to explore, and all day trips to Kanchanaburi will visit the bridge, and the Death Railway Museum is also well worth a visit. Opt for a specialist tour and you’ll get a ride on the train over the bridge on the River Kwai Bangkok, and up towards Hellfire Pass.

Alternatively, heading towards the natural parts of the province is also a stunning experience. Erawan National Park is a glorious place to explore, with waterfalls and lovely deep pools to cool off in, as part of the Kanchanaburi day trip from Bangkok.

While you’re doing the Kanchanaburi Bangkok trip, be sure to try one of the local foodie specialities – Gaeng Paa Pla Khang – this curry dish of local fish and vegetables contains lots of chillies in a curry paste with lemongrass. The Chukkadon Market just south of the center is a great place to eat this and to try other local dishes from Kanchanaburi.

👉Check out this Erawan National Park& Death Railway Kanchanaburi Tour

The Ancient City (Mueang Boran)

By Sara and Ryan of Across Every Border

If you’re looking for an easy-to-reach day trip from Bangkok, why not check out the Ancient City of Samut Prakan? You may not have heard of it before, but you’ve definitely seen the pictures! With a name like the Ancient City, it sounds like it’s going to be a beautiful conglomerate of historical buildings. Well actually, it’s more of a museum or theme park experience. 

The Ancient City in Samut Prakan, or Mueang Boran, as it is locally known, features a collection of over 100 famous Thai temple and monument replicas from around the country – with a few original designs chucked into it! Therefore, if you’re passing through Thailand for a short time, the Ancient City is a great way to get your temple fix without even leaving the city.

The Ancient City is one of the best day trips from Bangkok and reaching it is incredibly easy. It is located on the very outskirts of southern Bangkok. Just hop on the green Sukhumvit metro line from Asok station and ride it southbound for 45 minutes until you reach Phraek Sa station.

From Phraek Sa station, if you have a good amount of spare time, you can walk for 1.5 hours to the front gate. Alternatively, call a Grab taxi which will have you at the gate to the Ancient City within 10 minutes for only a few dollars.

Entrance will set you back 700 baht for adults and 350 baht for children. But the price includes a free bike for you to navigate the park (electric golf buggies are an optional extra).

👉Check out this Ancient City + Erawan Museum Private Guided tour

By Marya of The Beau Traveler

Looking for a beach getaway near Bangkok? Along with Pattaya, Hua Hin is one of the best day trips from Bangkok if you’re looking for beach destinations near the capital city. 

Located around 200 kilometres from Bangkok, you can reach Hua Hin by bus or train. The bus trip from Bangkok to Hua Hin will take approximately 3 hours, while the train journey may take a little over 4 hours in total. On top of the scenic train journey, Hua Hin train station is also one of the best landmarks in the city – making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok by train!

Hua Hin may not be the best destination for a beach getaway in Thailand, but it’s a perfect place to visit if you have a short time in the country and still want to spend a day relaxing on a white-sand beach near Bangkok. But if you’re looking for a beach destination to visit after your Bangkok trip, Koh Chang might be more up your alley!

If you want to explore the city beyond the beach, the best time to visit Hua Hin is around January or February. During this time of the year, the perfect weather is suitable for exploring some of the best attractions in Hua Hin, like Wat Amparam or Phraya Nakhon Cave.

If you are travelling to Hua Hin  around Chinese New Year, you can also enjoy the annual celebration at Phonkingpet Public Park in Hua Hin to experience the festivity. 

Whether you go on a DIY trip or join a tour, a day trip to Hua Hin from Bangkok is doable. However, I’d recommend staying in the city for a couple of days to make the most of your stay in the city! 

👉Check out the best Hua Hin activities

Sanctuary Of Truth, Pattaya

By Karen of Forever Karen

In contrast to the historic Thai temples in Bangkok, the Sanctuary of Truth is a relatively new build in Pattaya. It sits on the Gulf of Thailand with beautiful ocean views, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok by car.

The 144 km journey to Pattaya takes under two hours on the Bangkok−Ban Chang Motorway. You can go by taxi or book a tour. If you choose the latter, your excursion may include visiting Pattaya’s floating market. However, going by taxi gives you unlimited time to enjoy the grounds.

The Sanctuary of Truth is a popular attraction for guests arriving by cruise ship to the  port of Laem Chabang.  From the port, the trip is much shorter, at 20 km.

The structure, leaning more towards a museum, is the brainchild of businessman Lek Viriyaphant. He started the museum in 1981, with each piece carved by hand. Amazingly, the pieces are assembled without the use of metal nails.

While Viriyaphant died in 2000, his work is ongoing, and visitors must wear hard hats to tour the grounds. You can tour a carving hut, feed an elephant (but please don’t ride them), enjoy a petting zoo, and admire the intricate artwork in the temple, making it one of the best day trips out of Bangkok.

Inside the museum, the carvings represent earth, wind, water, and fire. Three types of local woods are used, with a noticeable colour difference. The Sanctuary’s concept is based on the seven truths of life. You’ll find each one documented inside the structure, including “What is the purpose of life?”

👉Check out this Sanctuary of Truth and Pattaya City tour

Alternatively , you can also club Sanctuary of Truth and Nong Nooch Botanical Garden together

Nong Nooch Botanical Garden

By Leslie of Backpackers Thailand

Nong Nooch Botanical Garden is in the world’s top ten best gardens, the largest garden in Southeast Asia, and one of the best day trips from Bangkok. The 600-acre territory consists of many thematic sections: Garden in the Sky, French Garden, Italian Garden, Butterfly Hill, Bonsai Garden, European Garden, Orchid Garden, and many more gardens. The garden has beautiful nature close to Bangkok.

There’s also a vast collection of live-looking animal and dinosaur statues. The detailing is so precise, the dinosaurs look as if they just stepped out of Jurassic Park!

The territory of the park is enormous, but luckily, there is a sightseeing bus circling around, which you can hop on and travel to the remote Orchid Garden. Most of the gardens are open-air, with little shade to hide from the sun and the heat, so the best time to visit is during the colder months (November to February).

The garden also offers elephant shows, which we don’t recommend visiting because of the unethical treatment of the animals. Other than that, the Nong Nooch Garden plant collection should be on every traveller’s must-visit itinerary.

Nong Nooch Garden is just two hours from Bangkok (166 km), making it also one of the best road trips from Bangkok. The fastest way to reach it on your own is by taking a bus from  Bangkok to Pattaya  and then getting a Grab directly to the garden. There are also many organized day trip tours from Bangkok, with prices ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 Baht.

👉Check out this Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, Sanctuary of Truth + 3 other stops tour

Taling Chan Floating Market

By Jill of Jill On A Journey

While there are several floating markets around Bangkok and some of them have turned into unpleasant tourist traps, Taling Chan Floating Market is a small but local floating market to enjoy, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

There are just a handful of boats from which local vendors sell food, fruit and souvenirs. As a visitor, you’re not on a boat but you can walk along the boats on a wooden boardwalk. There’s also a wooden platform with some tables on the water where you can enjoy your food. This day trip near Bangkok is best for trying local specialities such as coconut pancakes or sipping a cold coconut while watching the hustle and bustle.

That makes it a nice alternative to crowded, over-touristy floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Bangkok where they try to make you pay 5000 Baht for a short boat ride.

Be aware that around Taling Chan Floating Market there are also some people trying to sell you an overpriced boat ride. Just skip these and enjoy the market on foot. There’s no entrance fee, so it’s a great day trip from Bangkok, especially when you’re  backpacking in Thailand  on a budget.

The market is just 12 kilometres from Bangkok. So you can reach Taling Chan Floating Market by local bus no. 79 from Khao San Road in around half an hour, making it the best short trip from Bangkok. It’s open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

👉Check out this Taling Chan and Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Markets tour

Wat Sam Phran (Dragon Temple)

By Trisha of Try Wandering More

Wat Sam Phran is a tall, 17-story, pink-coloured Buddhist temple with a dragon snaking around it—a must-visit on your  trip to Thailand . While it looks awe-inspiring and mystical from afar, going up to the temple is a cool experience.

This is one of the best day trips from Bangkok because you have to walk to the top through a tunnel that goes through the belly of the beast. When you reach the top, you can see the dragon’s head up close and enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding area, which is covered with greenery. Do not forget to visit the entire temple complex, which has some other smaller temples. You’ll need at least one to two hours to see this place, depending on how much you’d like to see.

The best time to do this day trip near Bangkok is early in the morning or late in the evening, as it won’t be scorching. Not many people come here so it’s never very crowded. The timings of the temple are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry to the temple is free, but donations are accepted.

Dragon Temple is one of the best day tours from Bangkok. It is located about 40 kilometres from Bangkok. The best way to get there is to take a Grab or Taxi from Bang Wa BTS on the Silom Line or Lak Song MRT on the Blue Line, as these stations are closest to the temple, and you’ll avoid Bangkok traffic. Otherwise, you can also take a bus (route 84) from either of the stations mentioned above to Sam Phran and then a Grab taxi for the last 4 km to the entrance of the temple.

👉Check out this Dragon Temple, Roots Temple and Amphawa Floating Market tour

By Paul of Paulmarina

Ayutthaya is the former capital of the former kingdom of Siam, which is just under an hour away from the current capital city, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok. At its peak during the Renaissance, it had over 1 million inhabitants and a flourishing economy, before it was destroyed by the Burmese army in the 18th century. 

What’s left today are ruined temple structures and still active temples, where Buddhist devotes come to visit from far away. One such temple is the great Wat Phanan Choeng, where you can see the giant golden Buddha statue, an important highlight of the Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok. The  Ayutthaya temple ruins  are known as wat mahathat and this is where you get to see the famous Buddha head surrounded by tree roots. 

Most places are scattered away, but there is also a guided tour to explore the ruins on a bicycle . I also recommend getting a private guide with a car for this day trip outside Bangkok. That way, your guide will take you to all the different temples and ruins and explain the history and general cultural etiquette of each place. A private guide is better because they can adjust an itinerary to your liking.

The day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is super popular among tourists and local pilgrimage devotes, and therefore I suggest visiting during the earlier morning hours, as it’s much cooler and not all that busy.

👉Check out this Ayutthaya Ancient Ruins + Ayothaya Floating Market tour

Khao Yai National Park

By Catherine of Nomadicated

Even though Khao Yai National Park Bangkok is Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s not that touristy compared to other attractions, especially on weekdays. For this Khao Yai day trip from Bangkok, you need to travel roughly 135 km from the city one way. So it’s not one of the closest day trips outside Bangkok, but it’s worth the trek for the waterfalls and the contrast to skyscraper city life, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Sprawling over an impressive area of more than 2,000 square kilometres, Khao Yai has some impressive wildlife, like elephants, sun bears, and barking deer. Your chances of encountering mammals are rare, so most go for the waterfalls and dense tropical forest hikes.

Hiking is big, with many trails throughout the park. But the places you can’t miss are the Haew Narok and Haew Suwat Waterfalls. The latter was famously featured in the movie “The Beach.” There are many more places to visit within the national park so a customizable private Khao Yai tour would be best if you have the budget.

As with much of Thailand, come visit in the cool season from November to February, for non-rainy days and pleasant enough weather for hiking.

The Khao Yai National Park day trip from Bangkok is about a 2.5-hour drive if you have your own transportation. When using public transportation, start by catching a  train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya . Next, switch to another train to reach Pak Chong, then hire a driver or rent a motorbike. Public transportation can be complicated. For a stress-free experience, I’d get a rental car instead of joining a tour, so you still have flexibility.

👉Check out this Khao Yai Hiking and Waterfall tour

Best Day Trips from Bangkok – FAQs

What city near bangkok is worth visiting.

If you are thinking of where to travel near Bangkok, one city near Bangkok worth visiting is Ayutthaya. This day trips from Bangkok blog also recommends another option which is a one day trip from Bangkok to Pattaya.

Where should you go from Bangkok?

For weekend trips from Bangkok, there are numerous destinations you can explore, depending on your interests and preferences. One of these is Chiang Mai for its culture, temples, landscapes, trekking and hill tribe villages.

Where is best to go after Bangkok?

After Bangkok, I headed east towards Trat Province and took a ferry to visit Koh Chang. It is definitely one of the best places to go after Bangkok. The journey takes about 7 hours. You can leave early morning in a bus and reach Koh chang by noon.

Where can I go by train from Bangkok?

From Bangkok, there are several interesting destinations you can reach by train. These include Surat Thani (I did the Surat Thani to Bangkok train journey), Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya and Hua Hin.

Is Bangkok worth visiting?

Yes, Bangkok is worth visiting. Bangkok has vibrant street life (Khao San Road for example), important cultural landmarks like its many temples such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, and a dynamic culinary scene. From savouring mouthwatering street food delicacies to cruising along the Chao Phraya River, or even indulging in the modern shopping districts, there is much to do here.

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A twenty-something solo adventurer, Avantika finds comfort in learning about various cultures, its people and listening to age-old folk tales. When not on the road, she can be found cuddled up with her dog in her room, with a book in her hand.

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City Guides , Thailand · September 25, 2022

9 Incredible Day Trips from Bangkok Not to Miss

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital city, has so much to offer to every kind of traveler. But if you’ve already seen all the top sights, snapped pics at all the cool Instagram spots , and want to take a break from city life, there’s a whole bunch of fascinating places to visit just outside the city. Here’s our curated list of the ABSOLUTE best day trips from Bangkok!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

The Best Day Trips from Bangkok

If there is one day trip from Bangkok that you simply must do, it is to visit Ayutthaya – a sprawling historic park filled with ancient ruins dating back to the 14th century.

Ayutthaya was the second capital of Siam before being burnt down by the Burmese in 1767. While the fire destroyed all of the wooden palaces, many of the ancient structures and temples built from brick and stone still stand today. And as a result, Ayutthaya is not only one of Thailand’s most fascinating landmarks but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

The Ayutthaya Historical Park features nine famous temples, and while you won’t have enough time to see all of them on a day trip from Bangkok excursion, there are a couple that you simply cannot miss. Among the most notable is Wat Phra Mahathat , which features a buddha face trapped in an ancient banyan tree. Other must-visit sights include Wat Ratchaburana , Wat Phra Si Sanphet , and Wat Chaiwatthanaram . 

Ayutthaya is roughly 1-hour drive from Bangkok city. The easiest way to visit is by hiring a private driver for the day or joining a full-day historical temple tour . Alternatively, you can also tackle the 2-hour train journey from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to get there. Just know that the park is huge and the temples are quite spread out. Bicycle rentals are plentiful, and it’s a fun way to explore the park at your leisure. 

Erawan Museum

Erawan Museum , not to be confused with Erawan Falls, is one of the easiest Bangkok day trips.

Located roughly one hour south of the capital in Samut Prakan , Erawan Museum is best known for its enormous 3-headed elephant sculpture sitting on top of an ornate pink temple. While the temple is impressive from the outside, it’s really what lies within its walls that makes it a must-visit place.  

Inside the temple, you’ll find beautifully decorated staircases featuring dragon motifs, mythical statues, and a stunning colorful glass-stained roof representing earth, fire, wind, and water. Take the elevator up to the elephant’s body, where you’ll find a blue worship room lined with Buddha statues. And underneath the temple, there’s an interesting exhibition filled with ancient artifacts and porcelain. 

The grounds also feature neatly-kept gardens full of lush plant life, waterfalls, and colorful elephant statues that trumpet when you walk underneath them. There’s also a souvenir store and an outdoor restaurant where you can sit back and relax. 

While Erawan Museum is a hidden gem, it’s undeniably one of Bangkok’s most Instagrammable attractions . Remember to dress appropriately, covering your knees and shoulders when visiting. Entry to the museum is quite expensive (400 baht). So, if you want to save some money, I recommend buying an entry ticket online before you go. It works out much cheaper and also includes entry to the Ancient City. To get to Erawan Museum, take the green BTS line to Chang Erawan Station and then a Grab Taxi.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

No Bangkok itinerary would be complete without checking out its cool floating markets. And Damnoen Saduak is among the most famous, making it a must-do Bangkok day trip. 

Located roughly 1.5 hours southwest of the city, Damnoen Saduak is a thriving hive full of sights and sounds. You’ll cruise through an intricate maze of canals on a traditional long-tail boat when visiting here. Along the waterway, dozens of stalls sell everything from souvenirs and clothing to arts and crafts. The main area also has a great selection of local Thai food like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and coconut ice cream. The best part is that you don’t even need to get out of your boat to enjoy some grub! 

While Damnoen Saduak is very tourist-oriented today, a visit here provides a good glimpse into the past with plenty of photo ops. However, it’s important to know that Damnoen Saduak is often touted as a tourist trap, so it’s important to be more cautious when visiting. 

Unless you’re joining a guided tour , know that you’ll need to pay an additional fee to take a boat to the market. Prices vary depending on the pier you get dropped off at, but you really shouldn’t be paying more than  500 baht per person . Anything more than that is a rip-off. 

Another thing to know is that the boatmen will stop at literally all the souvenir stalls to get you to buy something. If you want to buy something, make sure to haggle as prices are hugely inflated here.

Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market , more commonly known as just the Bangkok Train Market , is another great excursion from Bangkok not to miss.

Located less than 1 hour’s drive from the city, Maeklong is a cool market set up along a railway track. Dozens of local vendors sell various products from fruit and veg to freshly caught fish, meat and even souvenirs along the narrow railway track. 

However, what makes really makes Maeklong such a unique attraction is that every time the train approaches, vendors need to pick up and move their goods off the tracks. Once the train passes, vendors place all the goods back. It’s quite a spectacle. Everything happens rather quickly, and it’s amazing how quickly vendors return their goods to their previous positions.

Maeklong is quite a popular tourist attraction outside Bangkok, so joining an organized day trip is quite easy. Alternatively, you can also arrange a private driver there and create your itinerary for the day. The market is open from 6 am to 6 pm , but timing your visit is key, as the train only comes at 8.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm and 5.40 pm . If you can, stick around until the train returns (30 minutes after arrival) for even more photo ops. 

Recommended by PlacesofJuma.

If you’re looking for an unusual day trip from Bangkok, a really great destination is the small town of  Lopburi , also known as the City of Monkeys . This place is easily reached by train, private charter , or, more conveniently, with a guided tour directly from Bangkok.

Lopburi is well-known for the Prang Sam Yod temple , where thousands of monkeys live. During a tour, you can discover numerous playful monkeys that are up to mischief around the temple. Many tourists feed the macaques, but this is not really recommended. When visiting, you should also hide all your valuables well. Even glasses can be interesting for monkeys.

As a special feature, there is even a big monkey festival once a year. During this celebration, locals build a massive buffet in honor of the many macaques – a unique spectacle one can hardly imagine.

But there is more in Lopburi. You should definitely visit the historic old town, where there are no monkeys, but other fascinating temples off the typical tourist routes. Another great stop is the market, where you can taste all kinds of Thai cuisine. 

Koh Kret Island

Recommended by Allan from Live Less Ordinary.

Located just north of Bangkok, Koh Kret is a small island in the Chao Phraya River , best known for its pottery villages and unique Burmese Mon heritage. Traditions were introduced by refugees trading in terracotta-ware jugs and bowls, and to this day, the old teak homes of the island continues to house the old kilns.

Koh Kret is a relatively small island easily explored on foot, with main attractions close to the arrival pier. For the more adventurous, rent a bicycle and follow the waymarked circular path covering the wider attractions. The island is surprisingly peaceful, serene, and green, given its proximity to big city life. 

Weekdays are quieter on Koh Kret when many of the eateries and  Thai street food  stalls close. Many museum exhibits and the local Chit brewery only open on the weekends too.

To get to Koh Kret, take a taxi from central Bangkok to the Koh Kret Pier is roughly 200 Baht. But you can find cheaper taxis from either Bang Sue MRT or the Nonthaburi Pier . 

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Located by the Gulf of Thailand , Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. 

You can directly  get from Suvarnabhumi airport to Pattaya by bus , catch a bus from Mo Chit , or arrange a private driver to take you. There are also some great guided tours on offer that you can book. The 150 km distance takes just under 3 hours.

Your one perfect day in Pattaya must include Pattaya Beach , Sanctuary of Truth , Nong Nooch Tropical Garden , and the walking street.

Start with the Sanctuary of Truth , a beautiful wooden monument situated near the ocean focusing on the importance of moral values. Then head to the lively Pattaya beach , a favorite spot for the sunseekers. If you like water sports, you can also enjoy activities such as jet skiing and a banana boat ride here.

Nong Nooch is a huge garden covering an area of 200 hectares. It features manicured gardens and a variety of tropical plants – including a wide variety of orchids. Take a stroll on the lively walking street , dotted with lots of eateries, bars, and entertainment options – the perfect place to wrap your day in Pattaya.

Kanchanaburi

Recommended by Sarah, A Social Nomad.

Kanchanaburi is just two hours from Thailand’s capital, making it a perfect day trip from Bangkok. 

Many visitors visit Kanchanaburi specifically to see the World War II sites, like  Hellfire Pass , the Commonwealth Graveyard , and the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai . The train line from Bangkok’s Thonburi station to the current end of the “ Death Railway ” that once ran through Burma, now Myanmar. All day tours from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi will visit the bridge. 

Several museums here also give immense detail on the railway, which was built by slave laborers and allied prisoners of war. There are also several National Parks close to Kanchanaburi – and it’s easy to visit Erawan National Park on a day trip to Kanchanaburi – where you can chase waterfalls, explore caves, and dip into glorious turquoise pools. 

Recommended by Paul from Paulmarina .

A real off-beat Bangkok day trip away from the tourist crowds is to visit the beautiful province of Ang Thong , located to the north of Bangkok. It’s known as the golden rice basin of Thailand because the region is the largest rice producer in Thailand. 

The  Ang Thong Buddhas  and Temples are the main attraction in this very rural area of the country . The largest Buddha sits right between vibrant green rice fields and the Wat Muang temple . This temple is also known as the crystal temple. Beautiful mirrors decorate the inner rooms, creating a special ambiance and light. The garden area is the Buddhist version of hell, with tall and life-sized figurines telling Buddhist mythology. 

One can visit another 200 temples in the area, but the most unique sanctuary is the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. He is dressed with a massive bright orange tunica, and the toes are decorated with pieces of gold paper by devotees. The drive from Bangkok to Ang Thong takes about 1.5 hrs, making it a perfect day trip to learn more about the rural areas of Thailand.

Other Popular Day Tours from Bangkok

Bangkok day trips in conclusion .

Whether you’re into ancient temples, floating markets, beautiful beaches, or off-beat places, there are a whole host of awesome places to visit just a short journey away from the capital. I hope this list helps you find the perfect day trip from Bangkok for your visit!

Well, that’s all I have on the best places to visit near Bangkok for now! If I’ve missed any must-visit attractions outside Bangkok City, let me know in the comments below so that I can add them to my Bangkok excursions bucket list!

Don’t forget to pin this post on the best Bangkok day trips to your favorite Thailand travel board! 

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The best day trips to escape Bangkok's crowds

Dec 5, 2023 • 8 min read

A day trip from Bangkok to Ayuthaya will take you back through the centuries © Anupong Sakoolchai / Getty Images

Bangkok is an all-you-can-eat buffet feast for the senses – the sights, the sounds, the sensations, even the smells. But for all its golden brilliance, and its full hand of markets, temples, palaces and world-class food and nightlife experiences, the Thai capital can be overwhelming in large doses.

During the northern hemisphere winter – Bangkok's peak season – the weather is cool and dry and perfect for exploring, but the crowds can resemble the start of Woodstock. Fear not – easy day trips from Bangkok let you leave the hordes behind and connect with a gentler, calmer vision of the Land of Smiles.

When the streets, traffic fumes and pushy tuk-tuk drivers start to close in, just venture out beyond the city limits to historic towns, ancient ruins, evocative WWII relics and even golden beaches. Here’s our pick of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Enjoy rural calm in the city at Bang Krachao

Travel time: 30 minutes

Although nominally considered part of Bangkok, Bang Krachao feels like stepping into rural Thailand – the antithesis of the chaotic metropolis across the Chao Phraya River. This peaceful district offers such delights as the Bang Nam Pheung floating weekend market, a scattering of 250-year-old temples and an eco-resort where you can sleep in a treehouse .

Largely covered by farmland, this 16 sq km (6.2 sq mi) island is filled with mangrove forests, small homesteads, and elevated pathways precariously perched above winding canals. It’s popular with cyclists, who zip past the teak-framed houses shaded by clusters of palm trees, but it's worth coming on foot to properly explore what remains of the hamlets now absorbed by Bangkok's urban sprawl.

A must-stop is Si Nakhon Kheun Khan , a public park and botanical garden with bike trails, fishponds and a bird lookout where you can spot many striking Thai bird species.

How to get to Bang Krachao: Boats make the five-minute river crossing to Bang Krachao from Wat Klongtoey Pier in the southeast of the city, about a half-hour taxi ride from the center of Bangkok (longer in traffic). Once on the island, bikes can be rented at the pier for around 80B per day.

Pedal through pottery villages on Ko Kret

Travel time: 1 hour

A man-made island in the Chao Phraya River, Ko Kret was first settled by Mon people from Burma, who ruled central Thailand between the 6th and 10th centuries. Twelve kilometers north of central Bangkok, the island today is a charming backwater, largely untouched by modern development. It's a place to escape the crowds and cars of the Thai capital – only bikes and motorcycles are allowed on its one road.

Ko Kret is also celebrated for its handmade terracotta pots; you can visit workshops and buy ceramics directly from local artisans who continue to use techniques handed down through generations. Renting a bicycle or hopping on a moto-taxi is the most effective way to explore. Don't miss Wat Poramai Yikawat, the grandest temple on the island, with a Mon-style marble Buddha statue and a museum showcasing local ceramics and religious relics.

At weekends, a busy morning food market full of vendors selling Mon dishes and Thai desserts draws both locals and savvy travelers. Arrive when it opens at 9am for the best selection of dishes to sample!

How to get to Ko Kret:  Ko Kret is located to the north of central Bangkok. The easiest way to come is by taxi or bus 166 from the Victory Monument to Wat Sanam Neua in Pak Kret, where you can board a cross-river ferry. Alternatively, charter a longtail river taxi from Nonthaburi, the northern terminus of the Chao Phraya Express riverboat. The journey from Saphan Taksin (Central Pier) to Nonthaburi Pier takes around 40 minutes.

Explore atmospheric temple ruins in Ayuthaya

Before Bangkok claimed the crown as the Thai capital, Ayuthaya was the official seat of the long-lived kingdom of Siam. The ancient city was founded in 1350 and its extravagant rulers filled the streets with some 400 temples and palaces, many adorned with resplendent gold leaf. Most were ravaged when Burmese invaders rolled into town in 1767.

Today Ayuthaya's many ancient relics live on as genteel ruins, giving Cambodia’s Angkor Wat a run for its sightseeing money. The Khmer-style spires at Wat Ratchaburana still rise as dramatically as they did in the 15th century, while Wat Mahathat is famed for its sandstone Buddha head tangled in the roots of an ancient Bodhi tree. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum , meanwhile, is the custodian of items once housed in the temple’s crypts, including ancient Thai pottery.

The temples are dotted around the peaceful Ayuthaya Historical Park, which is best circumnavigated by bike. Pick up rental wheels on arrival outside Ayuthaya train station. Alternatively, jump in a tuk-tuk for a breezy way to explore this fascinating Unesco World Heritage site.

How to get to Ayuthaya:  Ayuthaya is north of Bangkok, roughly an hour away by car or shared minivan from Bangkok’s Victory Monument . The trip doesn't take much longer by train to Ayutthaya Station, about 4km (2.5mi) from the ruins.

Discover WWII history and the great outdoors in Kanchanaburi

Travel time: 2–3 hours

Kanchanaburi has a dark history to thank for its modern-day popularity. The town is the setting for the hauntingly-titled Death Railway Bridge , built by Allied prisoners during WWII and immortalized in the (largely fictional) plotline of Pierre Boulle’s novel The Bridge Over the River Kwai and the subsequent Hollywood movie adaptation starring Alec Guinness.

As well as this evocative landmark, the town is dotted with fascinating war museums – including the JEATH War Museum , which displays photographs, paintings and wartime relics (such as an unexploded bomb). Dotted around the streets are somber cemeteries that give a human face to the harrowing events that took place here.

But there’s more to Kanchanaburi than military history. If you're looking to take it easy, the surrounding countryside offers a wealth of low-key outdoor activities. Admire the handsome buildings along the town’s Heritage Walking Street , and duck into ancient temples such as Wat Ban Tham , with its entrance resembling a dragon’s mouth. Take a bamboo raft down the river or swim in the stunning waterfall in Erawan National Park , then take an organized trek into the area’s dense jungles.

How to get to Kanchanaburi:  Kanchanaburi is located to the west of Bangkok, two hours away by car. It's also easy to reach Kanchanaburi by train, but this requires a change in Nakhon Pathom; allow three hours in total. Alternatively, minivans regularly depart from Victory Monument.

Explore Bangkok's closest beaches in Pattaya 

Is the beach resort of Pattaya worth visiting? That depends on who you ask. For some, this is just a conveniently located Thai beach resort, handy for the capital and packed with attractions for all ages, including two water parks and a zipline course, plus some great hotels and restaurants targeting the tourist crowds with piles of pancakes and full English breakfasts.

Others will recoil at the touristy vibe and lingering signs of the sex industry that has fueled Pattaya’s popularity ever since off-duty American GIs first started coming here in the 1960s. The sleazy beer bars, go-go clubs and massage parlors aren’t exactly hard to spot.

But putting that to one side, Pattaya has a couple of decent strips of beach – namely Naklua to the north and Jomtien to the south – for those hankering for a quick dip after the sizzling urban heat in Bangkok. Night owls are well catered for too, with a good selection of non-seedy bars, including live music venue Hot Tuna and nightclubs aplenty.

How to get to Pattaya: Pattaya is around two hours southeast of Bangkok by road. Several companies run direct buses and minibuses to Pattaya, including 12Go Transport , with a service leaving from Makkasan Station on New Petchaburi Rd in Bangkok.

Enjoy sun, sand and seafood in Hua Hin

Travel time: 3–4 hours

Thailand’s original beach resort is no palm-fringed castaway island and arguably is all the better for it. Instead, Hua Hin is a refreshing mix of city and sea with lively markets, good golf courses and water parks, and an ambiance that just keeps getting more hip and cosmopolitan. In fact, many visitors never even step foot on the sand.

This former fishing village rose to prominence in the mid-1920s, when it was transformed into a fully-fledged resort town for the Bangkok-based nobility. Kings Rama VI and Rama VII built summer palaces here, but today, the resort attracts Bangkok folk from all walks of life.

Given the resort is around three to four hours from Bangkok, most day-trippers chose to stay for at least one night. Fortunately, Hua Hin has a good array of guesthouses catering to paupers as well as princes. Likewise, the town's restaurants dish up plenty of low-priced, high-quality seafood.

While the beaches don’t rival those of Thailand’s southern islands , and are a bit too shallow for proper swimming, Hua Hin is Thailand's kiteboarding capital, blessed with strong, gusty winds. Lessons are available from several outfits including Kiteboarding Asia .

How to get to Hua Hin: Hua Hin is located 221km (137 mi) southwest of Bangkok, and it takes just under three hours to get here by car, or four hours by bus. Direct trains also connect Bangkok Train Station and Hua Hin in around four hours.

This article was first published Jul 29, 2019 and updated Dec 5, 2023.

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The Best Getaways Just Outside of Bangkok

Exciting as Bangkok is, there’s more to Thailand than the cosmopolitan capital. If you’re trying to avoid the tourist crowd but still wanting to see the beauty of Thailand in all its glory, here are short getaways just outside Bangkok that are calling your name! Think nature excursions, romantic beaches, Instagram-worthy themed concepts and much more. 

Pattaya 

Drive Time: 2 hours from Bangkok to Pattaya

Pattaya is home to a lively shopping scene, beaches, and booming nightlife. Sandy beaches, water sports & seafood await at Koh Lan (Coral Island). Art and architecture lovers must check out The Sanctuary Of Truth , a magnificent wooden castle by the sea, paying homage to the ancient Thai carpenter-style era. Nature enthusiasts would enjoy the 600-acred Nong Nooch Tropical Garden . Apart from the plenty of flora and fauna, the park also boasts statues and cultural shows.

Complete the trip with A La Campagne , a European-style mini-village complete with a tea room, restaurants and patisserie, farm activities, and lots of photo opportunities. Definitely, one that will make everyone on Instagram jealous!

Drive Time: 1 hour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

The ancient capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya is one for folks who are interested in culture and heritage. Doused in century old history, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a hotspot for tourists who come from all over the world, to see the remnants of a once powerful Kingdom of Siam. Amongst the list of temples to visit includes Wat Chaiwatthanaram , a Buddhist temple overlooking the Chao Phraya River and the beautiful ground gardens. The Wat Mahathat is gorgeous in its own way, with intricate Buddha carvings, nestled between the tree roots at the site.

Next up, the Wat Phanan Choeng is famous for its enormous gold seated Buddha statue, considered to be one of the most beautiful in the country. Complete the day with a ride on one of the river boats to take in the monastery in beautiful tranquil setting.

Kanchanaburi

Drive Time: 2 hours and 30 mins from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

Already Hollywood famous, Kanchanaburi needs no introduction. Best known through Bridge Over the River Kwai , a movie in 1957, the sombre destination is steeped in the grueling history of the Death Railway . Relive the history at the railway, which earned its name from the sheer number of lives lost during its construction. The Erawan National Park comes a close second when discussing the iconic destination in Kanchanaburi. The nature lover’s dream features Erawan Falls, a waterfall that cascades down seven tiers, many caves, and wildlife like deers and elephants.

For an adrenaline rush, Khao Phu Mai Daeng Mountain is the perfect place. At an elevation of 560 meters, the destination is known for its Big Wall Rock Trip, where guests spend the night sleeping on a stretcher hanging off the face of the cliff – secured by ropes 180 meters above the ground! Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

Drive Time: Two hours from Bangkok to Rayong

On the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Rayong is lined with a beautiful coastline and a natural scenery. Today synonymous with Koh Samet , the beach with fine white sands is decked with wooden bridges and lounges to rest your feet. Just as famous as its beaches, the province is known for its food. For the best and freshest seafood at affordable prices, head on to the Ban Phe Market .

Hit the Mangrove Research Centre and the Skyview Tower for an afternoon complete with joyous bicycle rides on wooden pathways. The nature preserve is a re-forested area of a previously denuded coastal mangrove forest. The land has been re-established to make way for the incubation of marine life, including many species of fish, crabs, and shrimps. One for those who believe in eco-tourism.

Drive Time: 1 hour from Bangkok to Ratchaburi

If you haven’t been to a floating marketing in Thailand, now’s the time. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi is frequented by both locals and foreigners. Whether you’re looking to buy souvenirs or sink your teeth into some delicious Mango Sticky Rice, the possibilities are endless. The Bo Khlueng Hot Stream is a popular hotspot in Ratchaburi. A natural hot stream with a temperature of between 50-68 degrees Celsius, the water is believed to be full of minerals that are good for the skin.

Not too far off from the hot stream is Namtok Kao Chan Waterfall . Surrounded by a peaceful and gorgeous natural enclave of greenery, the beautiful waterfall consists of 9 cascades. A destination that’s well-suited for a nature hike, visitors willing to hike up about 4.8 kilometres, can reach the highest point in three to four hours. 

Drive Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bangkok to Chonburi

Lined with beaches, Chonburi is best known for the city of Pattaya, but there’s lots more to discover in the region. Perfect for a family trip, the Grand Canyon Chonburi is a landscape that demands exploration. Think a scenic site with a hole in an evergreen cliff, filled with water. Not far away is the Snow Mountain , a hill made up of grey pebbles and rocks, perfect for a photoshoot. Next, experience the Flight of the Gibbon , an adrenaline-fueled zip line adventure in the middle of a rainforest. Made for families and friends, think of an action-packed adventure where you see the rainforest through new heights, zooming through the zip-lines. 

Drive Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes from Bangkok to Hua Hin

A favorite amongst Thai locals, Hua Hin is a beachside town with a relaxed surroundings. Here, the Cicada Market makes it on everybody’s travel list – think bargain and street food galore, theatre performances, and live music. Apart from the multiple beach activities in the city, Seen Space Hua Hin introduces a concept of Eat, Lay, Play and Relax – all in one location! Walk in and you won’t realise time fly by as you window shop through the best fashion apparels and home décor, and eat your favourite bites while spectating the all-day entertainment laid out for you. 

A 45-minute drive south of Hua Hin, Phraya Nakhon Cave is one for those who love a good challenge. Discovered 200 years ago and located inside the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, prepare for the 1,410-feet hike up steep steps to the cave. It’s totally worth it when you see the small pavilion at the cave bathed in a majestic sun glow.

Drive Time: 3 hours from Bangkok to Khao Yai

We can’t mention Khao Yai without bringing up Khao Yai National Park . Covering more than 2,000 square kilometres of area, there’s plenty to do here – Evergreen forests, mountains, loads of hiking and biking trails, birdwatching, as well as many waterfalls. The Alcidini Winery , a boutique family-run estate, is also nearby. Grown in Thailand, delve into the flavours of the Shiraz and Muscat Blue grape varieties here. Besides wine-tastings, nibble on macadamia and chestnuts while taking in the 360 panoramic view.

Primo Piazza is also a concept worth visiting, mimicking the streets of Italy with stunning replicas of its architecture. As you storm the grounds adorned with cafes, restaurants and retail stores, make your way to the farm area to get up close and personal with alpacas, merinos, and donkeys.

UOB Cardmembers can enjoy a variety of Travel Insider Escape deals, with up to 15% off accommodation bookings with Agoda , Booking.com and Expedia or up to S$50 savings on travel bookings, with Klook or Trip.com . If you’re looking to rent a car to explore your destination, get up to 20% off Avis Car Rental or Budget Car Rental . Last but not least, don’t forget the Travel Insurance!

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• 8 Top Places To Visit Near Bangkok During Your Trip To Thailand!

09 Feb 2023

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is known for its gritty charm that attracts thousands of visitors from different corners of the globe. Most of the tourists prefer visiting floating market, Wat Pho Temple, Wat Phra Kaew Temple, crocodile farms, and so on. However, if you are willing to know more about places to visit near bangkok, this is the best place to do so. Most of the tourist places close to Bangkok are located at a distance of 4-5 hours.

8 Places To Visit Near Bangkok

Check out these stunning places to visit near Bangkok on your next trip to Thailand. Have a look!

1. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, known for being the ancient capital of Siam, is one of the best places to visit around bangkok. To be able to understand the ancient vibe, you should stay here at least for a night. The places that you can’t miss during your trip to Ayutthaya include headless Buddha statues and crumbling temples as well. As you visit the temples and structures here, you will be getting an opportunity to delve deep into the Thai history. This is one of the best places to visit near bangkok for family.

Location: 80 km north of Bangkok. Best Experiences: Visit the ruins and headless Buddha statues at Ayutthaya. Timings: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Must Read: 24 Spectacular Things To Do In Koh Samui For A Fulfilling Holiday

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2. Samut Prakan

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Located an hour away from Bangkok, Samut Prakan is one of the best places to visit around bangkok. Letting you have a comprehensive understanding of Thai history and culture, Samut Prakan unravels the opportunity for you to explore monuments, gardens, and Buddha statues. Reaching Samut Praktan can be hectic because of the traffic. You will reach there earlier if you take the skytrain to On Nut station from where you can get a taxi or Grab. This is undoubtedly one of the most famous places to visit near bangkok.

Location: 31.5 km from Bangkok. Best Experience: Visit the monuments, gardens, and Buddha Statues at Samut Prakan. Timings: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Suggested Read: A Sojourn In Thailand Or Bali For Honeymoon ? We’ll Help You Decide

3. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi at the west of Bangkok unravels the opportunity for you to escape the urban hustle bustle amidst nature. It is one of the best places to visit near bangkok. If you have read the Bridge Over the River Kwai, that French novel is set in this part of Bangkok. Being home to WWII history, Kanchanaburi is known for hosting the infamous Death Railway that was constructed by the POW labor. You should also visit the Erawan National Park. To reach Kanachanaburi, you need to get on a train that departs from the Thonburi station. This is one of the best places to visit near bangkok for family.

Location: 140 km from Bangkok Best Experience: Stay at a guesthouse surrounded by nature to get the ultimate experience at Kanchanaburi.

Suggested Read: New Year Party In Thailand:17 Top Venues & Events

4. Koh Samet

Located approximately 4 km away from Bangkok, Koh Samet is known for attracting travelers from around the globe. Making it easier for you to rejuvenate your body and mind at one of the top places to visit near bangkok, Koh Samet presents you with the opportunity to breathe refreshing air and enjoy a fire-show cocktail. To reach Koh Samet, you need to get to the ferry pier from where you can get on a boat. Koh Samet is one of the best places to visit near bangkok.

Location: 168 km from Bangkok Best Experience: Experience fire-show cocktail and breathe in the fresh air. Timings: November to April.

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5. Koh Si Chang

Located in close proximity from Pattaya, Koh Si Chang is one of the most famous places to visit near bangkok. Despite the heavy boat traffic, you will be able to enjoy a refreshing weekend at Koh Si Chang. With a small community, Koh SI Chang takes pride in having a number of interesting caves. To reach Koh Si Chang, you will have to pass through SriRacha which is also known for being a highly celebrated hot sauce. Koh Si Chang is known for being one of the top places to visit near bangkok.

Location: 75 km from Bangkok. Best Experience: Visit the caves and enjoy the beach at Koh Si Chang. Timings: December to February.

Suggested Read: Thailand 7 Days Trip: There’s So Much To Learn From Rakshita’s Experience

6. Koh Larn

Being an island neighbor to Koh Si Chang, Koh Larn is one of the best places to visit near bangkok for couples. Paving the path for you to enjoy a relaxed environment, Koh Laan enables you to soak in fresh air. Whether you want to enjoy seafood or go for swimming, Koh Laan is undoubtedly one of the tourist places to visit near bangkok. In addition, you can also go for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming. To reach Koh Laan, you need to get on a ferry from Pattaya and this trip takes approximately an hour.

Location: 97.9 km from Bangkok Best Experience: Go for snorkelling and swimming at the Koh Larn Beaches Timings: November to February.

Suggested Read: Thailand In September: A Pocket Guide For An Amusing Vacation

7. Koh Chang

Being one of the best tourist places to visit near bangkok, Koh Chang is ideal for those who are looking forward to have an escape to an island. Whether you are willing to go for a nightclub party or enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, Koh Chang lets you do both. Being the backpacker’s paradise once upon a time, Koh Chang is known for its white sand. You will also find reggae bars at the smaller beaches here. Unless you want to travel by bus for 5 hours, you can fly to Trat Airport to reach this island.

Location: 352 km from Bangkok. Best Experience: Enjoy at a reggae bar and enjoy tranquility at the same time at Koh Chang. Timings: November to February.

Suggested Read: 5 Surreal Things To Do On Thailand Honeymoon That No One Except Rohit Knows!

8. The Floating Vineyards

Located approximately 60 km away from Bangkok, Floating Vineyards is one of the places to visit near bangkok for couples. This vineyard is Samut Sakhon is perfect to excite your taste buds with wine made from fresh fruit. You should laos taste the Spy brand of wine coolers which are popular among the locals. Built on fertile land, Floating Vineyards enables you to go for a tour and sample products as well. However, there is no accommodation option here. What you can’t miss here is the Siam Winery which is one of the largest vineyards here. It is one of the top places to visit near bangkok.

Location: 60 km from Bangkok. Best Experience: Taste wine made from fresh fruit and visit Siam Winery. Timings: March.

Further Read: 7 Attractive Cruises In Thailand For A Wonderful Trip To The Land Of Smiles

Bangkok is the party-destination of Thailand that attracts thousands of tourists who come here to experience the electric nightlife and roam around the beaches or explore the scenic landscape. Gear up for another exciting trip to Thailand by exploring these places to visit near Bangkok for an offbeat vacation!

Disclaimer : Some images are for representation purposes only. TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Question About Places To Visit Near Bangkok

What are the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Bangkok?

To make the most out of the nightlife in Bangkok, you should be visiting places such as Watch Siam Niramit Theatre Show, Bangkok night markets, Octave rooftop bar, Sofitel So on Sathorn, Sky Bar Lebua at State Tower, and so on.

What are the best things to do in Bangkok?

You should definitely consider doing a number of things during your next trip to Bangkok. These include Chao Phraya Riverboat cruise, visiting Siam Ocean, going to the Reclining Buddha Baiyoke, visiting the Grand Palace Safari World Bangkok, dining at the Sky Hotel etc.

What is Bangkok famous for?

Bangkok is famous for its vibrant nightlife and bustling culture. What you will truly enjoy here are the street life, shopping scenes, Chao Phraya River, food culture, grand Buddhist shrines, and so on.

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Mapping my memories

Tips: 6 Places to visit outside Bangkok City

1. suan phung.

Located 2 hours and 30 minutes’ drive from Bangkok city, Suan Phueng will surprise you with its unique attractions that you will never expect to see. As it is not far from Bangkok city, you can do a day trip to Suan Phueng by hiring a private tour or learn how to get there here .

• Alpaca Hill

This is Thailand’s first Alpaca farm located at Suan Phueng. Besides being able to see and feed Alpaca, they provide treasure hunt games that will keep you entertain and don’t be surprised when you get to see Hobbit Hill here. If you like animals, this place should be on your bucket list.

Entrance fee: 290 baht for a normal ticket. Different packages available

Opening hours: 9.30a.m – 5.00p.m

Location: 357 Moo8, Phapok-Tako Land Rd, Suanphung Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand

• Moai Coffee

A unique place for you to get your morning coffee as they have mini Stonehenge and unique statue which will be enough for your Instagram feed. The coffee has an average price of 100 baht per cup depending on your choice.

Entrance fee: Free

Opening hours: 8.30a.m – 6.30p.m

Location: 9/9 หมู่.10 ต.ท่าเคย, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand

• Scenery Vintage Farm

Suan Phueng has a lot of farms to go to and one of them is the Scenery Vintage Farm. You can feed sheep and cows and even enjoy the fresh dairy products here.

Entrance fee: 50 baht (adult), 30 baht (children)

Opening hours: 8.30a.m – 6.00p.m

Location: 234 ม 7 ต สวนผึ้ง อ Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand

2. Kanchanaburi

Located 2 hours and 30 minutes from Bangkok City, Kanchanaburi has been famous for its death railway and Erawan Falls as it is not far from the city. Take a train or book your private tour to see Kanchanaburi beauty of nature and history.

• Erawan Falls

30 minutes from River Kwai, the 7-tier waterfalls will amaze you in so many ways. While you are making your way up the waterfalls, you will see the traditional dance customs of Thailand that describe the definition of “Erawan”. Well, at least that was what the locals say. It is recommended for you to reach for the 7th level of the waterfall first as they will start to close the highest level at 4.00 p.m and eventually goes down to the next level.

Entrance fee: 300 baht (foreigners), 100 baht (locals)

Opening hours: 8.00a.m – 4.30p.m

Location: Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand

• Death Railway

Death railway Kanchanaburi has been famous for its history. You can book a private tour at TripAdvisor or book yourself a ticket from Bangkok to River Kwai. You will spend a total of 4 hours inside the hot train, standby your battery fan! Please refer here for the train schedule.

Entrance fee: None

Opening hours: earliest train from Bangkok 7.00 a.m, last train at 1.30 p.m

Location: Maenamkwai Rd, Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

3. Ubon Ratchathani

If you have some extra days to spend in Thailand, you can consider exploring Ubon Ratchathani. It will take almost 8 hours’ drive to reach here and it is recommended for you to hire a local driver to avoid getting lost. But that long journey is going to be worth it after you’ve seen the attractions here.

• Pha Taem National Park

The park consists of different parts of attractions such as Sao Cha Liang, Soi Sawan Waterfalls and the viewpoint river that separates Thailand from Laos. The entrance fee to the park is 450 baht but if you are a student, it will only cost you 300 baht. Camping here will cost you 225 baht per tent per night. Don’t worry about your camping necessities, as you can rent it as low as 25 baht per item.

Entrance Fee: 450 baht/ 300 baht (student)

Opening hours: 6.00 a.m – 6.00 p.m

Location: Huai Phai, Khong Chiam District, Ubon Ratchathani 34220, Thailand

• Sam Phan Bok

The definition of Sam Phan Bok is 3000 holes. Not too sure how they count all the holes but bring your sunglasses and your sunscreen as it is an open park and no trees. You can walk from the parking area to the center of the park for 30 minutes or you can hire a jeep to give you a ride for 500 baht per jeep.

Opening hours: 4.00 a.m – 6.00 p.m

Location: Lao Ngam, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani 34340, Thailand

• Grand Canyon

They call it Grand Canyon in Thailand but not sure for what reason. You can see the blue water pool here and wonder how it happened. Be sure to come here in the morning as you can see a very nice pattern of the pool. Refer here.

Opening hours: –

Location: Ubon Ratchatani

4. Nakhon Ratchasima

Located 3 hours and 30 minutes from Bangkok City, Nakhon Ratchasima is the best short escape for relaxation and comfort. It is recommended for you to hire a local driver to drive you here or another option is to take 5 hours train ride to Nakhon Ratchasima.

• Palio, Khao Yai

Looking for local markets with French and Mexican landscape and architectural design? Palio is the place. You will be amazed at how they design the place and feels like you are in a different country.

Entrance fee: none

Opening hours: 9.00a.m – 7.00p.m

Location: Thanarat Rd, Mu Si, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, 30130, Thailand.

• Jim Thompson Farm

Do you like flowers? If you like flowers and a farm guy/lady, make sure to visit Jim Thompson Farm in Pak Thong Chai. About a few hours’ drive away from Bangkok, you can see the beautiful farm containing different flowers and the discovery of Thailand traditional farming culture, tools and etc. The farm is only open during the coldest season in Thailand which will usually be from December to February. Make sure to keep updated on the opening months here .

Entrance Fees: 100 -160 bath for kids & 150 – 220 baht for adults

Opening hours: 9.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m

Location: Tambol Takob, Amphur Pak Thong Chai, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, 30150, Thailand

• Toscana Valley

This is an expensive hotel to stay in but if you would like to see the replica of the leaning tower of Pisa, you can drop by here and take a picture outside the valley. It’s free of charge unless you would like to see the hotel, then you need to have a reservation to enter.

Entrance fee: You can only enter if you book to stay here

Location: 2 Moo 11 Bannenthong, Pong Ta Long, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30450, Thailand

• Sunflower Farm

Lopburi is one of the places where you can find sunflower farms along the roads. Be sure to set your alarm at 9.00 a.m to see the sunflower or you will get to view sad-looking sunflowers if you decided to go in the evening. They said the sunflowers will follow the sun, so less sun will bring the sunflower looking down.

Entrance fee: free

Location: Lopburi, 15140 Thailand

6. Si Sa Ket

If you like culture and history, this is the place for you but it will only be worth it if you tour around Ubon Ratchathani and then stop by at Si Sa Ket to see one of the oldest temples in Thailand. It is located 7 hours’ drive from Bangkok and an hour drive from Ubon Ratchathani.

• Khao Phra Wihan

Would you like to see one of the best sunrise views in Thailand? Well, I would recommend you to experience it here. As it is located high up the hill, you can also see the border of Cambodia and how the local people pray.

Entrance fee: 300 baht

Opening hours: 5.00 a.m – 4.30 p.m

Location: Tambon Sao Thongchai, Amphur Kantharalak, Sisaket, 33110, Thailand

Most temples were built thousands of years ago and it has several ancient temples that you can visit such as Phanom Rung, Wat Khao Angkhan, Wat Pa Khao Noi and more. It is located 3 hours from Khao Phra Wihan as you can drop by when you are visiting Ubon Ratchathani.

Opening hours: 8.00 a.m – 6.00 p.m

Location: Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buri Ram, Thailand

Note: All locations are based on Google map.

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Travel, Cultures, and more…

8 near-by places to visit outside Bangkok

If you are living in or traveling to Bangkok, you may be interested in discovering nearby places, let’s us introduce to you 8 must-see spots outside Bangkok.

Nice view of Pattaya Pier

Known as the closest coastal area in Thailand, Pattaya is a vibrant city with sunny beautiful beaches, modern shopping malls, luxury hotels and resorts, bars, and 24/7 clubs which attracts millions of visitors per year. With 2-3 hours driving from Bangkok, you will reach this amazing city. If you don’t have a car, it’s easy to take a bus from Ekkamai Bus station or Mochit Bus station. If you have 1 or 2 days of traveling and you want to enjoy the perfectly active life in a sunny and windy land, Pattaya is the best choice for your trip.

Stunning view of Tawaen beach – Koh Larn

If you would like to enjoy the sunny and windy atmosphere on stunning beaches, but you don’t like the vibrant noise of Pattaya, Koh Larn is the right place for you. Known as the closest island in Thailand, Koh Larn takes you 15 mins from Pattaya by a speed boat or 45-50 min by a slow boat. This beautiful island is famous for lots of nice beaches and activities such as parasailing, jet ski, parachuting, banana boats, etc..

Besides, Koh Larn is considered a heaven of seafood at a reasonable price. With a price of 399 THB (12.69 USD), you can enjoy a buffet of shrimp, crabs, and various sea species with amazing taste. You also can easily find some nice cafes to chill out with friends and have some good photos. Needless today, Koh Larn is a perfect place for short-time travel.

Amazing beach in Hua Hin – Internet

About 200 km from Bangkok, with 4-5 hours by train or by bus/minivan, Hua Hin is an ideal place for short-time trips. This beautiful place is famous for peaceful beaches, water sports, modern and traditional shopping spots, and historical sites. Also known as amazing places, but Hua Hin is much more peaceful than Pattaya. If you are interested in a slow lifestyle, Hua Hin is definite for you. It isn’t hard to find charming resorts, hotels, and homestays in this area. Despite the variety of accommodations, Hua Hin’s properties are quickly fully booked. If you plan to visit Hua Hin at the weekend or public holiday, make sure you booked a hotel or a homestay in advance.

The highest point of Khao Yai National Park

If you have already visited the above spots and want to find something new, Khao Yai is really worth your visit. With 2-3 hours driving from Bangkok to the north, you will be amazed by the cool weather and stunning sites of Khao Yai. Khao Yai in Thai means “Big Forest”, as its name, this beautiful place is famous For Khao Yai National Park. Driving through the national park will bring you close to nature, the wildlife and leave you an unforgettable feeling.

There are lots of hotels, cafés, and restaurants in this area, but each place is far from each other, it would be best if you have your own car. If you don’t have a car, rent a Songteaw (semi-taxi) with a local driver should be the best choice to discover this beautiful place.

A small corner of Ayuttaya

If you are interested in history and culture, Ayuttaya is the right destination for you. Coming to this 1991 UNESCO World Heritage Site within 1-2 hours from Bangkok, you have a chance to experience the remnants of the grand Ayuttaya Kingdom. This site comprises a history museum and a great number of ruined temples and palaces. If you would like to flee from the busy and noisy lifestyle, this calm, quiet, and relaxing Ayuttaya will never disappoint you. Renting a bike is highly recommended in this historical place; you can be slow enough to visit numerous temples and palaces. As this is considered a solemn spot, remember to dress formally and wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees. Day tours or 2-3 day tours are enough for this beautiful ancient city.

Kanchanaburi

Peaceful place in Kanchanaburi – Internet

Located in the northwest of Bangkok with 2-3 hours of driving, Kanchanaburi is famous for its amazing waterfalls and national parks which are easy to access. More than that, Kanchanaburi is well-known as a place keeping the remnants of World War II. Coming here, you can experience various spots and sceneries ranging from mountainous sites to temples and museums. There are so many sites to visit and so many things to do just in one place.

It is quite easy to get to this beautiful place. You can take a bus, a train, a taxi or drive a car here. This is a year-round destination but the best time to visit Kanachaburi is from November to February as the weather is cooler than the rest of the year. It’s ideal to spend 2-3 days in this place.

Bang Krachao

Relaxing ride in Bang Krachao – Internet

Considered the Green Lunge of Bangkok, Bang Krachao is a verdant peninsula in an oxbow of Chao Praya river. It is known as the best place to escape from chaotic city life due to the greenly natural space. You may never imagine that there’s a totally “different Bangkok” close to Bangkok. There’s no metropolitan, no condo, and no annoying traffic jam. You can refresh and merge yourself into a calming rural atmosphere.

The most interesting activity in this peninsula is bike riding which takes you away from daily stressful noise and brings you to a relaxing space. Besides the stunning nature, make sure you did not skip visiting Bang Num Pheung floating market and trying local food here. Both their special taste and their cheap price will amaze you!

Daily trips and a budget of less than 1000 THB (32 USD) for everything are ideal for this charming peninsular.

Amphawa Floating market

Stunning image of Ampawa Floating Market – Internet

Amphawa Floating Market is one of the famous floating markets in Thailand which is about 1.5-2 hours drive from Bangkok. The most convenient way to access this market is by canoes. This market offers you a stress-free day with a huge amount of food, drinks, and souvenirs at a reasonable price. Also, it is well-known for the firefly tour along the riverside which is a must-try activity in this place.

Amphawa Floating market opens on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 2 PM – 10 PM which is a perfect get-away trip for you after a tiring working week.

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5 Popular Things to Do during a Day Trip Outside of Bangkok

Strap on a backpack, grab a water bottle, and prepare to inhale some fresh air during a day trip outside of Bangkok ! Thailand’s capital city’s access to transportation and local tour guides makes it a great launching point for loads of day trip destinations. Explore historical landmarks, or chill with locals in the countryside. Whichever direction you choose to go, rest assured that these treks around Bangkok are perfect for solo travelers, families or groups of any kind.

AGODA EXTRA : Take part in one of the wackiest celebrations in the world, according to The Guardian newspaper, during the annual Monkey Buffet Festival at Phra Prang Sam Yod(Monkey Temple) in Lopburi Province. On the last Sunday in November, locals honor the more than 3,000 long-tailed macaque monkeys who are credited with boosting the region’s economy by attracting visitors to the temple. Festival-goers don monkey masks and celebrate the event as the furry guests chow down on more than 4,000 kilos of vegetarian dishes, fruit sculptures, sticky rice and traditional Thai desserts – all prepared by local chefs, for the monkeys only!

1. Take a longboat through DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET, Ratchaburi

Throw yourself into the middle of Thai culture and history with an excursion to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market . Built on the longest canal in Thailand, the market supports local farmers who sell their produce and wares from the seats of small wooden boats. Pile into your own boat and paddle your way through winding canals and floating merchants.

How to get there : Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok . Buses run daily, at different times throughout the day, and can be booked on the fly at Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) . Optionally, ask your hotel about booking a tour. Affordable package deals often are available and can include English-speaking guides, plus side trips to coconut farms and sugar plantations along the way.

Check In to Amphawa Na Non Hotel & Spa , Step Out to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Discover more resorts and guest houses in Ratchaburi

2. See the ruins of an ancient kingdom at AYUTTHAYA HISTORICAL PARK, Ayutthaya

Though the region hasn’t been recognized as the country’s capital in more than 250 years, the remains of the Ayutthaya kingdom reveal some of the richest secrets of ancient Thai civilization. Built in the 14th century, the temples and royal palaces that remain in Ayutthaya Historical Park have been compared to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, and sections of the park are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is nestled inside an “island” created by the convergence of the Chao Phraya , Lopburi and Pasak rivers . Ayutthaya Historical Park , and its vast surroundings, can be navigated by foot, but many visitors prefer to rent bicycles to cover the more than 3 square kilometers of the royal grounds during this daytrip outside of Bangkok.

How to get there:

TRAIN : Take a two-hour train ride from Hua Lamphong Station . Trains leave every hour, and ticket prices vary, depending on whether you choose an air-conditioned car. BUS : Jump on a bus at Mo Chit Station . Buses leave regularly throughout the day, and the trip takes less than two hours. HIRE A VAN : Ask your hotel about a driver, or hunt one down yourself at Victory Monument , which you can reach by BTS. Vans are generally very inexpensive, but they also don’t leave until they are full. You can expect about a one-hour ride with 10 to 15 other people. TAXI : Talking a taxi driver into taking you to Ayutthaya is definitely more private, but it can be a little pricey. Expect to pay for a round-trip, as your driver most likely won’t be able to score a fare back to Bangkok.

Check In to Stockhome Hostel Ayutthaya , Step Out to Ayutthaya Historical Park

Discover more guest houses and hostels in Ayutthaya

3. Walk a mile in the shoes of a POW on DEATH RAILWAY, Kanchanaburi

Made famous by Hollywood films and non-fiction depictions, the Death Railway exemplifies more than just a famous movie set. Commissioned in 1943 by the Empire of Japan, the railway was constructed at the hands of forced laborers, thousands of whom died while working on the 415-kilometer section of railway. Walk across Bridge 277 , known worldwide as the Bridge on the River Kwai , and venture further north on the train for a scenic journey along Kwae Noi River , through the Wampo Viaduct and into Hellfire Pass , a section of the railway formed by workers who were forced to manually cut a pass through rock.

Make it a two-day day trip outside of Bangkok ! Other sights in the area include Sai Yok Noi Waterfall , located directly between Sai Yok National Park and Erawan National Park , both great for hiking, kayaking, caving and team-building exercises.

How to get there : The train that still follows the original route is the only acceptable way to experience Death Railway . You can hire a driver, but you will miss the majestic journey and much of the history explained along the way. Trains leave every morning from Thonburi Station , and guides are available for a small fee to help you choose the best timetable, depending on how far you want to go on your daytrip.

Check In to Monaz River Kwai Kanchanaburi , Step Out to Death Railway

Discover more resorts and guest houses near River Kwai Bridge in Kanchanaburi

4. Go spelunking and swim in cool waters at SARIKA WATERFALL in KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK, Nakhon Nayok

On the outskirts of Khao Yai National Park , Sarika Waterfall flows down nine levels into refreshing pools layered down a mountainside. Go on to explore Sarika Cave and trek to the top to tour a historic chapel. A trip to Sarika Waterfall can easily be worked into a nature-filled excursion to Khao Yai National Park .

How to get there : Hiring a driver is your best bet for a safe trip to Sarika Waterfall and Khao Yai National Park . Ask a representative from your hotel for daytrip packages to the area, which can be reached in about two hours by car. For this day trip outside of Bangkok , you should plan for an early start and a late return.

Check In to Escape Khaoyai Hotel , Step Out to Khao Yai National Park

Discover more hostels and guest houses in Nakhon Nayok

5. Take your open-air shopping experience to a thrilling new level at MAEKLONG RAILWAY MARKET, Samut Songkhram

Market life takes on a whole new meaning in Samut Songkhram Province , where merchants don’t just sell their wares along the railroad, they actually set up shop right on top of it. Known to locals as Siang Tai, or “Life-risking” Market, the popular attraction offers local produce, fresh seafood and miscellaneous goods, but more than that, it provides one of the most thrilling shopping experiences in the region. Listen for the train signal, and watch shopkeepers scurry to fold in umbrellas and remove their wares from the tracks as the train passes by. The routine takes place eight times each day and is the reason the market also is known as Talad Rom Hoop , or “umbrella-closing” market.

BY CAR : Hire a driver for the 80-kilometer trip. It’s possible to find taxis to the area and back, but asking your hotel about a daytrip will be less complicated and possibly cheaper. TRAIN : Take the BTS Sky Train to Wongwian Yai Station , and grab a tuk tuk to Wongwian Yai Railway Station. It’s a 1-kilometer walk if you want to stretch your legs before boarding the train. Take the train to Maha Chai Station, which is located on the banks of the Tha Chin River. Take a ferry across the river to Ban Laem Railway Station. From there, you can board the train again and complete your day trip outside of Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market .

Check In to Amphawa Caza Platuu , Step Out to Maeklong Railway Market

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Places to Visit Outside Bangkok

Bangkok is a top destination for tourists because it is packed with adventure and beauty. However, stray away from the city sometime and look for interesting places to visit outside Bangkok. 

There are lots of amazing things for anyone who is willing to explore its true essence and find unusual things beautiful. The rampant nature, historical artifacts, grand temples and the alluring culture of this city will surely fascinate you. 

So, here are some of the remarkable places outside Bangkok that remain hidden to the common eye. They are quite easily accessible from the city and will not require a lot of time.

Koh Lanta Beach

Let’s admit it! Nobody prefers beaches that are too crowded and exploited as it won’t let you enjoy well. So, you can head to this serene beach instead of heading to Koh Phi Phi or any other popular beaches. 

This is one of the perfect places to visit outside Bangkok with your loved ones. You will find the ambiance is tranquil and remains fresh and pristine as you spot crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and perfectly lined mangroves. 

Read more: What to Do in Krabi

You can enjoy diving or snorkeling and come across beautiful coral reefs too. 

Erawan National Park

People who have visited this place call it a natural paradise for adventure and excitement. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or an ordinary traveler, you will feel entertained continuously here. 

Admittedly, this is one of the places to visit outside Bangkok as there are many things you can do here. There are small caves to explore and different types of exotic birds here. 

However, the iconic attraction in the park is the multi-tiered Erawan falls which are an enthralling sight. If you want to make your visit more adventurous, get into the natural water slide found here. 

Siriraj Medical Museum

Many travelers head to museums of history, culture or art when they visit different countries. However, if you seek for something that is unusual and exciting, this museum is perfect for you. 

This museum actually consists of six different museums where pathology, forensics, and anatomy, are considered to be the main attractions. 

A curious traveler like you might find it morbidly interesting even though it is especially important for medical professionals and students. It is located opposite to the Grand Palace and is quite easy to get there.

A Floating Ride at Amphawa

If you want some places to visit outside Bangkok to make your tour unforgettable, this is ideal for you. Head to the floating village in Amphawa and get to enjoy some of the best Thai seafood meals. 

The best way to savor these delights is by sitting on a boat tied to the central bridge because you get to enjoy the beautiful surrounding. Even though it is the second most popular floating market, it is packed with many interesting things to do.

You can explore the surrounding areas and then take a boat ride along the canal.

Erawan Museum

You will see the three-headed elephant statue welcoming you with grandiose on the entrance of the museum. However, the interior is what will capture your heart as the structure portrays extraordinary architecture.

This is exactly one of the places to visit outside Bangkok if you are hunting for its hidden treasures. The museum houses rich antiquities, religious monuments and unmatched decorations in different materials. 

Looking for exploring hidden destinations around Bangkok ? That's awesome since there are so many locations you can explore while avoiding tourist crowds. 

Sadly, this 29 metered towering building is overlooked by many travelers as they are unaware of what it consists. 

Samutprakarn Zoo

This zoo mainly holds a crocodile farm that is focused on performing research and rehabilitation of crocodiles. It holds around 100,000 crocodiles and also owns the world’s largest crocodile known as Yai. 

Even though the main attraction is crocodiles, you will also see a wide range of animals like elephants, hippos, monkeys, and tigers. Get thrilled as you watch trained performers showcase dangerous acts with crocodiles.

How will you feel putting your head or your hand into a deadly crocodile’s mouth?

Wat Sampran Dragon Temple

This massive 17-storeyed temple has a dragon scaling around its wall. You will see that the interior, as well as the exterior, is painted in bright colors giving an attractive look to the temple. 

Read more: Check out more Thailand destinations off the beaten path

Even though only a part of the temple is open to visitors, you will come across few shrines and statues in there. 

You can also get to know about the rituals and ceremonies held here if you seek the assistance of a good tour guide. So, you should definitely visit this magnificent temple on your tour.

Bangkok is a city full of places that are strangely beautiful and therefore is a top destination for tourists. If you choose to travel a bit and visit the suburbs of this city, you will come across fascinating sights. You will enjoy everything from its mouth-watering cuisine to historical artifacts here. These are the best places to visit outside Bangkok and are easily accessible from the city. So, add these best-kept secrets to your travel list and set out to explore them soon!

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• The Best Outdoor Activities In...

The Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Bangkok

Travel Expert

With year-round hot weather and endless sunshine (minus the rainy season), Bangkok is an ideal metropolis when it comes to amazing outdoor activities. Here are the best.

Many Bangkok visitors only spend a few days in the city, scoping out the major sites, before scramming to the islands and beaches beyond. But if you look past the Grand Palace, Reclining Buddha and buzzing nightlife , you’ll find a bevvy of exciting outdoor activities, from cultural landmarks to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Bangkok, like any major city, is home to amusement parks, racetracks, open-air markets and much more. If you want to get beyond the major tourist attractions and discover what the city’s residents already know and love, let this list steer you in the right direction.

1. Bike or jog around Lumpini Park

2. Shop at one of the biggest flea markets in the world

Market, Shop, Store, Gym, Park

3. Cruise the canals

Natural Feature

One of Bangkok’s nicknames is the Venice of the East, owing to its intricate network of canals that snake their way through the city. Two of the main canals worth exploring are Khlong Saen Saep, which slices through the centre of Bangkok running east to west, and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, which runs north to south and intersects with Saen Saep at the Bobae Market (Bangkok’s largest wholesale clothing market). At around 20 Thai baht (51p), it’s incredibly cheap to zip through these canals, and you’ll see a side of Bangkok that few tourists ever experience. Just mind the water as it’s pretty mucky.

4. Get wet and wild at Siam Amazing Park

Amusement Park, Park

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5. Take a zip line over the rainforest at Flight of the Gibbon

Park, Natural Feature

If you’re looking to get your heart pumping while basking in Thailand’s lush rainforests, there’s nothing quite like a zip-line excursion on the outskirts of the city. Flight of the Gibbon is a zip-line company that will pick you up and drop you off in Bangkok, escorting you south to Pattaya where they have three kilometres (1.9 miles) of zip lines that rise above the Chonburi forest canopy. Guides also teach visitors about the merits of eco-tourism and the state of the jungle in today’s hectic world.

6. See all the animals at Safari World

Amusement Park

For lovers of animals but not necessarily zoos, Safari World on the outskirts of Bangkok hits the sweet spot. The amusement park features two sections: Marine Park – which is like SeaWorld – and Safari Park, where you can drive your car to see all the animals. The Safari Park has hundreds of species, including zebras, rhinos and giraffes, in addition to more predatory animals like lions, tigers and bears. The animals all roam free, and you can get very close to the action in your vehicle or one of the park’s shuttles. Getting here requires a car, bus, minivan or taxi as there’s no rail service to this area of the city.

7. Mosey and dine down the river on an antique rice barge

Restaurant, Thai

8. Drive a race car at Taki Racing School

For the thrill seeker, there’s a racing experience in Bangkok that is not to be missed. Experience Formula Renault driving at the Taki Racing School, where you can achieve speeds of up to 230 kilometres (143 miles) per hour. The costs here are not cheap, with a half-day running in the 15,000 Thai baht (£379) range and a full day at 35,000 baht (£884), but this experience is unlike any other racing opportunity you’ll ever get.

9. Breathe in Bangkok’s lungs

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

The capital city of Thailand and maybe the traffic jam capital of the planet, Bangkok is a fascinating, exciting and incredible city to visit. Like many other capital cities Bangkok never goes to sleep, there is always a hive of activity as people work around the clock in their various professions.

With eight million inhabitants living within the city you will find yourself encountering every walk of life, from the super poor to the mega rich they all congregate in the one city and each feels at home as the other.

Let’s have a look at the top things to do and see in Bangkok :

1. Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha

A visit to Wat Pho is a must for any traveler to Bangkok, it is the home to the Reclining Buddha which stands at fifteen metres tall and forty six metres long, the feet alone are measured at over five meters. The whole statue is covered in gold leaf and looks incredible when you get up close.

Inside the temple there are 108 bowls and on the way in to the temple you can buy coins for the bowls. The history behind this is that Buddha completed 108 positive actions on his way to becoming perfect. Whilst you are at the temple you can also stop for a while to receive a traditional Thai Massage

Recommended tour : Damnoen Saduak, Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun Private Tour

2. Visit the Grand Palace

Of all the places to visit in Bangkok the Grand Palace is the most famous attraction there is. You simply cannot move onto another city until you have taken the time to visit here.

The palace at one time was the king’s home as well as the place where the government of Thailand carried out their work. A trip to the palace can take many hours as there are over 214,000 sq. meters to cover. Be aware of potential scams when outside the palace and only pay the entrance fee when you are actually going in.

Great walking tour available : Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun

3. Ride the Sky Train

There is only one way to get around Bangkok at any speed whilst keeping cool and that is to jump aboard one of the sky trains. With air conditioned carriages there is no better way to get around.

In most instances you are high above the traffic below giving you a view of the city but also the train takes the most direct route. With nearly every part of Bangkok you would want to visit having a train station, travel could not be simpler.

4. Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.

If you like shopping you need to check this place out. If you hate shopping you need to give this place a wide berth. With over 8000 stalls covering 27 acres of space this is one of the largest markets in the world.

Open every Saturday and Sunday it attracts nearly 200,000 visitors a day, you will find everything you could ever imagine for sale here and mostly at local prices rather than tourist prices, it is certainly worth picking up a map before you go to avoid you being lost in the market for hours.

5. Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River

Some people refer to Bangkok as the ‘Venice of the East’ this is due to the Chai Phraya River flowing through Bangkok and all of the little canals that feed off of it. The river is the lifeblood of Bangkok, even today 50,000 people still go to work on one of the many ferries that go up and down.

Taking a boat trip down the river is fascinating as you will see high rise condominiums and fancy hotels in one part whilst you will see wooden shacks and children playing in the water in other parts. Feel free to get on and off at any of the stops the ferries make to further explore the city.

Related tour : Tuk Tuk & Tourist Boat on Chao Phraya River

6. Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon

The high end shopper’s paradise, a hugely popular shopping mall that houses many different shops for high-end fashion designers, Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, a huge multiplex cinema and enough restaurants to feed you for a life time.

There are over 250 shops inside the mall, most of which are frequented by the well-heeled Thai’s and foreigners. Various car manufacturers including Ferrari and Lamborghini also have showrooms within the complex so if you have deep pockets you are sure to find what you are looking for.

7. Visit The Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is home to the largest collection of artifacts and Thai art in all of Thailand. The museum was first opened by King Rama V to show off all the gifts that his father had given to him.

There are many interesting things to see in the museum such as Chinese weapons, precious stones, puppets, clothing and textiles and Khon masks. If you go to the museum on a Thursday you can be given a tour in English to give you a greater understanding of everything in the museum.

8. Have a Thai Massage

Whatever country you come from you almost certainly would have heard of Thai massages and maybe even have seen a Thai massage parlour in your local village. But nowhere can you experience a traditional Thai massage done as well as you would in the country where it originated.

The experience of a Thai massage will give you a new lease of life whilst making you feel invigorated as well as balanced. There are parlous absolutely everywhere so it is worth doing your research to find a good one near your hotel.

9. Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)

Situated just outside the BTS station called Nana is a place called Nana Plaza, many people think that Nana Plaza is the largest sex complex in the world today.

Here you will find many gogo bars full of Thai women looking to pleasure you for the evening in return for a fee. Even if you have no intention of participating in any of the girls offers it is worth spending some time sitting down with a drink and watching the people go by.

10. Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower

Before the financial crisis hit the world a few years ago a huge 49 story skyscraper was being built in the heart of Bangkok, but when the crisis hit the building work stopped and the tower was never completed. Now it sits there abandoned, far too big for anyone to do anything with.

Some sites recommend climbing the tower, but this is dangerous and not allowed. A few years ago some bloggers/vloggers had criminal charges filed against them for posting material online showing them climbing the tower.

11. Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park

At over 500,000 sq. meters Lumpini Park providers the people of Bangkok with a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The name of the park originated from the Lord Buddha who was born in Nepal.

It is not unusual when you walk through the park to see the older Thai generation practicing their Thai Chi or a romantic couple relaxing by the side of the lake. At the weekends the park is full of people taking part in all sorts of activities so a great time to go is early morning or just before sunset.

Related tour : City Culture 3-Hour Bike Tour

12. Eat Out At Chinatown

Every major city has its own Chinatown and Bangkok is no exception to this, you know you have arrived when you walk through the ceremonial Chinese gates and into Chinatown itself.

Packed full of street stalls and restaurants the choice of places to eat will be endless, nowhere else in Bangkok will you get to try as many different kinds of Chinese food as you can here, especially at such good prices. If it is gold you are on the lookout for it is said that this is also the best place in Bangkok to look.

Suggested tour : Bangkok Chinatown Food Tour

13. Go For A Drink On Top Of The City

There are various places in Bangkok where you can go for a drink at the end of the day but none will have the view of Bangkok that the Vertigo and Moon bar or the Lebua Rooftop bar has. Sitting on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree hotel you can look out and see the beautiful skyline of Bangkok in all of its glory.

As soon as you reach the top you are straight outside so this is not the place to be if you are afraid of heights, the designers have made the rooftop in such a way that you get a complete 360 degree view of the city with no obstructions.

Book online: Lebua Rooftop Bar Reservation & Round-Trip Transfer

14. Eat Street Food

With Thai people choosing to eat almost every meal out instead of cooking at home the popularity of street food has never been stronger. Every busy road will have street food vendors selling their products to the locals and tourists alike, the prices are low because this is where the Thais choose to eat their meals as well.

You have probably heard of Pad Thai but there is so much more to street food that this one dish. You will get stalls selling all sorts of foods from Som Tam (papaya salad) to Squid, all cooked in front of you ready for consumption straight away.

There are also some amazing food tours available.

 15. Take a Motorcycle Taxi

With the roads of Bangkok being as congested as they are, getting from one place to another can often seem like a daunting task. For most places you can get a sky train but for those that you cannot it is a good option to take a motorcycle taxi, unlike a traditional taxi or a tuk-tuk these guys will take you on the back of their motorcycle to anywhere you want to go.

There is no measuring how far the journey is so once you have paid your fair the driver will want to be there in a rush. Sit back and relax as your driver weaves through the traffic to get you to your location.

16. Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)

The whole of Thailand is full of kickboxing stadiums but the biggest fights happen in Bangkok, normally at either the Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen stadiums. Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and it is talked about everywhere. The viewing figures on TV are some of the highest for any show that is aired.

An evening spent at the stadium is sure to be action packed as the locals get so immersed in the fights that the atmosphere reaches fever pitch. There is usually somebody walking around taking bets as well if that is of interest to you.

Book online : Muay Thai Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium – VIP Entrance Ticket

17. Visit Dusit Zoo

Dusit Zoo is the oldest zoo in Thailand and has been open for over 60 years.

There is a large range of animals inside the zoo (approximately 1600) including monkeys, alligators, lions, tigers, penguins and kangaroos.

The zoo is very much a working zoo and has an animal hospital which looks after all of the inhabitants of the zoo as well as an education center, museum and train.

18. Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran

Celebrated each year between the 13th and 15th of April Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival and nobody is safe from getting wet. In the Buddhist religion it is believed that by sprinkling water your sins and bad luck will be washed away.

Today the sprinkling of water has turned into a full on water fight that the whole country gets involved in. with the huge crowds of Bangkok there is no better place to experience this festival as the city becomes one big party.

19. Explore the Bangkok Nightlife

Bangkok is famous for it’s nightlife scene and grown pretty big over the years.

There’s exciting nightclubs, amazing rooftop bars, hip cocktail bars and much more. There’s the adult themed Soi Cowboy and Patpong, the party scene at Khao San Road and lot’s of clubs to dance the night away. Want to party with like-minded travelers? Then check out this bar crawl tour .

20. Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show

An absolute must for all tourists to Bangkok, in most puppet shows the puppeteers are hidden from view but not in this show.

The puppeteers are part of the show and it takes three people to control each puppet. The puppets tell out a classic folk tale whilst a live orchestra plays music to add to the atmosphere.

The set design and craftsmanship that goes into making the props is magnificent as is the technique of the artists as well.

21. Visit Jim Thompson House

Thai silk is famous the world over and nowhere will you find a better place to learn about the history behind this craft. As you walk around the house you will not only learn the history of The Thai Silk Company but also the fascinating history of Jim Thompson himself. The house itself is more of a complex with six traditional teak structures forming the complete dwelling.

Consider the Jim Thompson House and Baan Krua Community Tour to save a buck.

22. Visit Wat Arun

There are more than 31,000 Buddhist temples spread out across Thailand and this one is one that you really want to see.

The temple is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River is this beautiful temple that stands at 79 metres tall.

The tower is covered in ceramic tiles and coloured porcelain making for an incredible sight when you catch it in the right light. The temple itself is guarded by a pair of mythical giants that keep watch over the temple grounds.

Suggested tour:  4-Hour Night Bike Tour with Wat Arun & Wat Pho

23. Feast Yourself On Durian

You will probably smell it before you see it but Durian is known as the king of fruits. People either love it or hate it with some public areas going as far as putting up signs that completely ban it.

A durian fruit is distinct for many reasons, firstly its look, it looks like some kind of medieval weapon with its thorny outer shell, and once the shell has been removed the insides are like this creamy buttery texture that some people say is the greatest fruit of all.

24. Visit Erawan Shrine

Situated in one of the busiest areas of Bangkok is Erawan Shrine, It is a Brahman shrine and attracts so many visitors that it is more popular than many of the temples.

Constructed in the 1950’s the shrine was made because the construction workers on the nearby hotel were too superstitious to continue their work as they felt the land spirits were unhappy and causing problems on the construction site.

The shrine itself is a four faced brahma god and people flock there and lay floral garlands in the hope their wishes will come true..

25. Visit Vimanmek Mansion

Vimanmek Mansion is the world’s largest teak wood building. Formally a royal residence it was only used for a few years before being left empty for many decades.

The mansion itself is now a museum that is home to many ancient artifacts and even some photographs that have been donated by His Majesty the King.

When you are in the grounds of the buildings you may take as many photographs as you wish but you will not be allowed to take your camera inside the museum itself and a strict dress code is in force so ensure you dress modestly.

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand):

• Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Ride the Sky Train
• Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.
• Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River
• Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon
• Visit The Bangkok National Museum
• Have a Thai Massage
• Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)
• Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower
• Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park
• Eat Out At Chinatown
• Go For A Drink On Top Of The City
• Eat Street Food
• Take a Motorcycle Taxi
• Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)
• Visit Dusit Zoo
• Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran
• Explore the Bangkok Nightlife
• Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show
• Visit Jim Thompson House
• Visit Wat Arun
• Feast Yourself On Durian
• Visit Erawan Shrine
• Visit Vimanmek Mansion

7 Unique Things To Do In Bangkok

B angkok is the vibrant and quirktastic capital city of Thailand. For decades, it’s been the jumping-off point for countless Southeast Asia adventures. And oh boy, it is so much more than floating markets and Khao San Road. It’s hard to not fall in love with Thailand and why we frequently visit this magical place

It’s not just the local markets that cater to every taste. The city itself has something for everyone, from saffron-clad monks strolling around Buddhist temples and hard-hitting Muay Thai fights to bone-cracking Thai massages.

And of course, then there’s Bangkok’s nightlife, which is rightly infamous for its “anything goes” approach to fun. There’s no shortage of unique things to do in Bangkok.

With so many backpackers and holidaymakers arriving every day and so many “been there, done that” long-term expats warming barstools, is it possible to still find off-the-beaten-path, unusual things to do in Bangkok? Err, yeah.

Don’t believe me? Well, then just take a quick look at this list of crazy things to do in Bangkok.

1. The Museum of Death

Directions: Thanon Wang Lang, Thailand, Bangkok

I’m going to kick off with a spot that is definitely one of the most unusual things to do in Bangkok, albeit one I know not everyone is going to love. It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted or the weak-stomached, anyway.

Come and wander the macabre halls of Siriraj Medical Museum, also known as the Museum of Death.

The Siriraj Medical Museum is one of the most unique and morbid medical museums in the world, known for its extensive collection of preserved human remains and medical oddities.

Now, if you don’t think you will enjoy peering at pickled body parts while trying to work out what they were and what happened to them, then this is not the spot for you. Maybe don’t book a cooking class for the same day!

A trip to the petal-filled Pak Khlong flower market, this is not!

2. Try Some Super Old Soup

Directions: 336 338 Ekkamai Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

One of the main reasons Thailand is known as the “land of smiles” is the huge grins that tourists have on their faces after trying delicious Thai food. Thai cuisine is internationally renowned, and Bangkok must be considered a top contender for the title of the best street food city in the world.

There are so many hidden stalls dishing out traditional Thai dishes that simply selling delicious food isn’t enough to stand out. You need something else, something extra special to put yourself on the culinary map, like, um, I don’t know, maybe simmering a pot of soup continuously for 45 years straight.

At one neua tune (beef stew) eatery in Ekamai, central Bangkok, three generations have kept one soup alive using some of the previous day’s leftover broth to start the base of the following day’s soup. It’s an old-school technique known as Perpetual Stew.

Each mouthful literally contains a little piece of Thai history.

3. The David Beckham Temple 

Directions: 734 Rama III Rd, Bang Phong Phang, Yan Nawa, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

If you’ve already visited Reclining Buddha Wat Pho and Wat Arun, you might be experiencing a bit of temple fatigue. In that case, treat yourself to a rejuvenating Thai massage and flag down a tuk-tuk for one last Buddhist temple experience – the “David Beckham Temple.”

Thailand’s passion for soccer is well-known, and their affinity for temples is equally strong. So, it shouldn’t come as a complete surprise that the Thai capital has found a way to combine these two interests. However, before you arrive with expectations of encountering a 30-foot-high statue of David Beckham cast in bronze, it’s wise to temper your expectations a bit.

The temple’s official name is Wat Pariwat (Pariwat Temple), and in reality, there is only a relatively small statue of David Beckham adorning the base of a Buddha statue. Nevertheless, it’s still a fun sight to behold, especially if you happen to be a soccer fan.

Reportedly, the head monk is an avid Manchester United supporter, which explains the inclusion of David “Golden Balls” Beckham in shimmering gold leaf. 

4. Get Lost in Jim Thompson’s House

Directions: 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

As you will see from the crowds the Jim Thompson House isn’t exactly “off the beaten path” it is however quite unusual. 

Firstly the house itself is a traditional Thai-style teakwood house in the middle of a city of steel and concrete. The building was originally frankensteined together from several dismantled teak houses from various parts of Thailand. 

Jim Thompson was an American who worked in Thailand during and after World War II, helping to put the Thai silk industry on the map. What’s most unusual is what happened to him. He just vanished. Disappeared on vacation in Malaysia. And nobody knows where or why. 

The house is also handily located in Central Bangkok, Siam, walking distance from the main shopping malls. 

5. Take a Stroll Along the Benchakitti Park Green Mile

Directions: Ratchadaphisek Rd, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Huh, parks aren’t weird or unusual, are they? Hmm, they are in Bangkok, which can often feel like the epitome of the concrete jungle.

Sure, it’s relatively easy to hop on a coach and get out to some genuine jungle like Erawan National Park, but if you just want to find a green space in Central Bangkok, your choices are limited. You certainly won’t find a tree-lined promenade along the Chao Phraya River.

Your options are pretty much Lumphini and Benjaketti Park, both of which are great. Fortunately, now there is a great new pedestrian-only walkway linking these two green lungs, known as the Green Mile, which makes for a great afternoon stroll.

Find out more about the joys of a stroll around Bejakitti Park here.

6. Get Charmed at the Amulet Market

Directions: 1 Trok Sake, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Located near the Chao Phraya River and in the shadow of the historic Wat Mahathat temple, you’ll find another of our unusual things to do in Bangkok: the utterly charming Tha Prachan Amulet Market, where commerce and spirituality converge.

To some, it might appear as rows upon rows of assorted knick-knacks, but for those in the know, such as Bangkok citizens working in hazardous occupations, this market is the go-to place to discover a lucky charm or a blessed object that could make the difference between life and death, wealth and poverty.

If you’re in search of a pair of elephant pants to blend in with the backpacker herd, then head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. However, if you seek a mystical item to safeguard your very soul, then the Amulet Market is where you should be.

The Grand Palace and Bangkok National Museum are both worth a visit, but they won’t really help you understand Thai culture as you would here in the Amulet Market.

7. Practice Safe Eating at the Condom Cafe

Directions: 6 10 Suk Chai Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

To complete our list of unusual things to do in Bangkok, there’s one cafe that is unquestionably “safe” for dining: Condoms and Cabbages. 

Their tagline is rather fabulous: “Our Food is Guaranteed Not to Cause Pregnancy.”

This immediately raises concerns about every other restaurant I’ve ever dined in that doesn’t make such a claim.

As you look around this themed cafe adorned with condom-festooned statues, which serves up delicious Thai and international dishes, you’ll instantly agree that it’s one of the more unconventional experiences to have in Bangkok.

Owned by the politician Mechai Viravaidya, also known as “Mr. Condom,” the cafe’s aim is to promote family planning and raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in the most palatable way possible – through great Thai cuisine.

What an amazing place! And rest assured, the food doesn’t taste rubbery at all!

Final Thoughts on Unique Things To Do In Bangkok

So, there you have it – our list of unusual things to do in Bangkok. This is not an exhaustive list, but I hope these quirky gems spice up your Bangkok itinerary, much like a bowl of tom yum soup.

For Bangkok aficionados, you may notice that the Bangkok Airplane Graveyard and the Sathorn Unique Tower (better known as the Ghost Tower) are absent from the list above. It’s not because they lacked uniqueness, but rather because they no longer exist. They’ve been cleaned up and closed for business. My apologies for any disappointment.

Enjoy your adventures in Bangkok! Oh, and always remember to practice safe eating.

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