travel from bangkok

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 !

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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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• The Best Weekend Getaways From...

The 14 Best Day-Trips and Weekend Getaways from Bangkok

Bangkok is a bustling metropolis, a melting pot of culture and a real hub of activity. However, if you’ve spent any considerable time in a city like Bangkok, you’ll know that every once in a while it can be beneficial to get away from it all. Bangkok’s infrastructure and location means there’s no shortage of options for weekend breaks, both locally and further afield. Here are the best.

The “local” options.

Market, Seafood

2. Khao Yai National Park

Natural Feature, Park, Hiking Trail

3. Ayutthaya

Buddhist Temple, Museum, Historical Landmark

Only an hour from Bangkok is Thailand’s former capital, Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya is home to some of the most beautiful temples in all of Thailand; the Khmer architecture features imposing prangs , ornate carvings and haunting sights, such as the image of the Buddha’s head among fig roots. Cycling around the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a great way to see the temples, and there are other temples on the outskirts of the city that are well worth a look too. Make sure you try the local specialty, kuay tiao ruea , a noodle soup that’s available all over and tastes out of this world.

4. Kanchanaburi

5. Ko Samet

6. damnoen saduak floating market and maeklong train market tour.

7. Pattaya City and Koh Larn

Natural Feature

The city of Pattaya is along the coast, southeast of Bangkok, and this day trip is perfect for those who love water sports and beaches. After a 2.5-hour journey to Pattaya, you can embark via speedboat to Koh Larn, an island where you can jet-ski, parasail, snorkel or catch some rays on the white-sand beach. Don’t miss a scenic tour of Pattaya City, which is 150 kilometres (93 miles) south of Bangkok. Taking a bus, minivan or car can get you there relatively quickly, but you can also take the train from Hua Lamphong station. Recommended by Paul Feinstein

8. Jungle cycle around Bang Krachao

9. Koh Kret

Another island formed by the Chao Phraya River, Koh Kret is north of Bangkok and the historic home of the Mon people – a tribe which is among the oldest in Thailand and known for its pottery skills. By taking a trip here, you can visit the weekend market and the historic pottery-making village while also touring temples and sampling street food. The best and easiest way to get to Koh Kret is to hop on the Chao Phraya express boat (which departs from any riverside station) to Nonthaburi, where you then need to hire a smaller boat to take you to the island. Recommended by Paul Feinstein

10. Nakhon Nayok

Historical Landmark

Getting out of the city is a great way to experience the true essence of Thailand, and a day trip to the stunning countryside of Nakhon Nayok is the best way to do it. You can stop for fruit at a morning market or take an ox-cart ride through idyllic rice paddies. You’ll see where local fruits like mangosteen, rambutan and durian are grown. While here, consider taking a Thai cooking class and visiting Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam, a massive concrete dam. 1.5 hours northeast of Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is accessible by train or bus, which is cheaper and faster than the train. You can catch a ride from the Mo Chit bus station almost every hour. Recommended by Paul Feinstein

11. Chachoengsao

About 90 km (56 mi) east of Bangkok is Chachoengsao, a multicultural town with historic markets and beautiful temples. On a day-long adventure you can sample goods at the Khlong Suan Market, visit ancient temples and go for a cruise along the Bang Pakong River. You can sample some freshly extracted palm juice at Palm Sap Village. The cheapest way to get to Chachoengsao is by train, which takes about 1.5 hours. Hop on at Phaya Thai station to Lat Krabang, where you’ll change trains and go from Lat Krabang to Chachoengsao. Recommended by Paul Feinstein

Further afield

With flights of just an hour from Bangkok, Krabi is a perfect destination for a weekend away. In the south of Thailand there’s a distinct change of pace from life in Bangkok, and an increase in spice when it comes to the food. Krabi is home to a number of gorgeous beaches, such as Railway and Ao Nang, and the island of Koh Phi Phi and its famous Maya Bay makes for a great day trip.

Cafe, Restaurant, Asian, Thai

14. Chiang Mai

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23 Best Day Trips from Bangkok

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Thailand’s capital needs no introduction, but have you ever dug deeper than beyond the city perimeters?

Positioned in central Thailand, this part of the country is loaded with history relating to Lanna culture and the Ayutthaya era. Plus, it sits just above the coast, so you best believe you’ll have your cake and eat it too on any of these best day trips from Bangkok !

Buddha statues (galore) aside, on one end, there are riches of royal palaces, ancient ruins, essential temples and significant pagodas; then the other side of BKK’s spectrum offers beaches, islands and even … diving !

Choose between day adventures to waterfalls or the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi, explore caves, revive body, mind and soul at hot springs or head off to Khao Yai National Park and stick your head between floating clouds.

Veer to out-of-the-ordinary places like pottery islands and riverside communities; join a river cruise or go on a longtail boat ride through floating markets; run through flower fields or beneath bamboo groves and even go wine-tasting (how romantic).

All so close to the city, this leaves Bangkok as one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia .

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• day trips from Bangkok

1 – Marvel over the Angkor Wat of Bangkok: Ayutthaya

Would you believe that around 700 years ago, Ayutthaya was once a thriving empire, home to the capital of the Siam Kingdom, i.e., Thailand?

Walking amid the UNESCO-listed ruins today, it’s hard to imagine this site as a bustling economy, but as you see the ancient remnants and stone carcasses, you’re transported to times yonder in a flash!

Strategically positioned, the city was built as an island amid three converging rivers: Chao Phraya, Lopburi and Pa Sak. Arrive in Ayutthaya from the riverside, and there are boat tours doubling as day trips to the famous site.

The old city is officially part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where the bulk of temples, stupas, monasteries and prangs (reliquary towers) are.

Highlights include:

• Wat Chaiwatthanaram: a temple constructed in 1630 on the Chao Phraya River
• Wat Yai Chaimongkhon: a royal monastery with Reclining Buddha
• Wat Maha That: a royal temple and one of the oldest here
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet: three chedis with the relics of three Ayutthaya Kings
• Wat Phanan Choeng: housing one of Thailand’s oldest Buddhas

Get dressed in traditional Thai costumes and pose for pictures, and renting out a bicycle to explore Ayutthaya is a must!

Other things to do around Ayutthaya? Hang out in the rice paddies at Rak na Ayutthaya (รักษ์นา อยุธยา), dine on the river at The Wine Ayutthaya, shop local markets and visit the nearby Bang Pa-in Summer Palace (often included as part of guided day tours).

Travel time: 1h12min

• Ayutthaya day trips from Bangkok

Read more: Bangkok boat tours

2 – From sunflower fields to the famous Death Railway, explore Kanchanaburi

Rainbow flower fields, riverside dining with the jungle surrounding you, WWII history, ornate temples and so many photo opportunities you’ll fill your camera space in minutes; Kanchanaburi is a very special oasis, with an Eden of greenery at your fingertips.

Traveling just two hours outside Bangkok, prepare for a completely different world!

Frolick among rows of sunflowers and cosmos in bloom at Baan Rai Nai Rung; ride a cable car up (or walk the stairs) to the top of the Tiger Cave Temple, i.e., Wat Tham Sua to see the giant golden Buddha; and spot the remains of two Khmer temples at Muang Sing Historical Park.

There are so many Instragrammable cafes you won’t know what to do with yourself like Rakkanna Cafe, set up in the middle of rice paddies and U&ME Cafe with its gigantic hands’ sculpture!

Tour the iconic Death Railway , along with the JEATH War Museum and the real River Kwai Bridge. Another fantastic museum option is the Ban Kao National Museum , where you can study Thailand’s 4,000-year-old Neolithic history.

For a cultural overdose, visit Mallika City and experience a traditional show!

Drive here, or for something extraordinary, enjoy a scenic train ride from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi!

Travel time: 2h23mins

• Kanchanaburi day trips from Bangkok

3 – Discover something for everyone inside the exciting Khao Yai National Park

Brush up on your knowledge of Thai wildlife and flora from an in-person vantage point as you spend the day trekking through lush jungles and waterfalls inside the Khao Yai National Park .

Technically, Thailand’s first-ever official national park (opening in 1961) spans four provinces: Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachinburi and Nakhon Nayok. (The closest town to Khao Yai is Pak Chong).

Blessed with abundant natural fauna, spot lar gibbons (now endangered), pig-tailed macaques, barking deers, elephants and so much more during a park hike!

Strangely enough, this part of Thailand seems to have an affinity for all things European, and there are quite a few restaurants, accommodations and tourist attractions modeled after places across this continent.

Travel to Italy at Primo Piazza or pretend you’re in the English countryside at Thames Valley . LOTR fans, there’s even a Hobbit House (Baan Suan Noi)!

Get fancy schmancy at PB Valley Khao Yai Winery and go wine tasting … Then, visit Ban Tha Chang Spring for scenes out of a fairytale. More unusual activities include a tour of the Khao Luk Chang Bat Cave .

Traveling with little ones? Pop into The Chocolate Factory Khao Yai , or get your adrenaline pumping at Khao Yai Speedkart .

Travel time: 2h26mins

• Khao Sok National Park day trips

4 – Swim beneath an elephant-head-shaped waterfall in Erawan National Park

It’s time to go chasing (jaw-dropping) waterfalls in Erawan National Park, home to mystical caverns, magical cascades and fairy-like natural pools — and warped in Thai mythology.

This day trip is for serious nature enthusiasts, and if there’s one waterfall adventure you should choose, it would have to be the iconic 1,500-meter-high Erawan Falls!

To reach the main attraction — a seven-tiered waterfall — involves trekking through lush jungle-scapes and stone staircases, but the rewards are tenfold. Designated trails guide you through the forest.

Cool off beneath the powerful spurts, hang out on logs across glassy waters, and grab epic insta-worthy shots wallowing like a mermaid in the milky blue-colored springs.

Don’t be surprised if you spot a monkey peering out from the trees to say hello!

Situated in the Tenasserim Hills in West Thailand (in the Kanchanaburi province), swimming is allowed! Listed across the board as the most beautiful waterfall in the Land of Smiles, the journey is totally worth it!

P.S. Another awesome waterfall in the area is Namtok Sai Yok Noi.

Travel time: 3h10min

• Erawan National Park day trips

5 – Do your shopping on water at the Floating Markets

Something you will only typically experience in Southeast Asia, don’t miss out on discovering the floating markets around Bangkok, including the most famous and largest in the world: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Fill your cup with a taste of complete local living, witnessing vendors selling goods from wooden boats on the water, and cruising between the canals yourselves on an authentic longtail river taxi.

Shop for fresh tropical fruits, classic Thai ingredients and other bits and bobs!

Appearing in movies, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is renowned for its variety of goods and its size — and for its boat noodles. Around the corner is the less-touristy Tha Kha Floating Market if you’re hoping to escape overwhelming crowds.

Amphawa Floating Market is a hotspot for seafood lovers!

No less than 30 kilometers from Bangkok, Bang Nam Pheung is hyper-local and a fab spot to pick up interesting fruits like gac .

Travel tip: If you don’t have time for a day trip to the floating markets, there are a handful on the city outskirts, for example, Taling Chan Floating Market , Bangnoi Floating Market and Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market .

Travel time: Damnoen Saduak -1h25mins; Tha Kha -1h15; Amphawa -1h19min; Bang Nam Phueng – 39 minutes

• Floating market of Damnoen Saduak day trips

Hot tip: For those seeking a well-rounded journey through Bangkok’s iconic landmarks, our 3 Days Bangkok Itinerary is your go-to resource.

6 – Transport yourselves to Sri Lanka at Wat Saman Rattanaram

What’s that bright pink statue blazing above the Bang Pakong River? Why it’s Wat Saman Rattanaram’s 22-meter-long Ganesha statue, of course!

An idyllic location for temple-sightseeing fans; it feels like you’re somewhere in Sri Lanka or India instead of Thailand.

Constructed on a tiny island along the river, the temple complex is a fascinating celebration of multiple religions. However, it mainly focuses on highlighting various Hindu deities.

The reclining pink Ganesha (the deity of authors, scribes and intellectuals and the god of new beginnings) holding a lotus flower in one hand draws in crowds.

A beautifully massive depiction of Brahma (the Hindu god of creation) poses gently, and there are two red and green nagas perched on the riverbank.

Around the complex are more reliefs, sculptures and statues of Ganesha in various shapes and forms, and every corner is decorated with vibrant religious artworks.

Feeling peckish? There’s a local food market selling typical Thai street foods and drinks like fresh coconut water.

Don’t be surprised to hear locals chanting mantras around the Hindu god, and if you’re keen to join in, the phrase “ Om Gan Ganpataye Namah ” is one example.

Travel time: 1.5 hours

Travel tip: Nakhon Nayok  (see #8) is an hour onward from here, so make a day of them both. 

7 – Play a round of golf, chill on the beach & go wine-tasting in Hua Hin

Did you know that Thailand has its very “Riviera,” inspired by places like France and Italy?

Nicknamed by locals as the “Santorini of Thailand,” Hua Hin is a unique destination where blue bays greet you, and most things to do are centered around the ocean — except it doesn’t have that typical Thai island vibe.

The beaches here are great for families, with shallow, calm waters. Build sandcastles, snorkel along the shoreline or catch up on some reading time beneath swaying palm trees.

Hua Hin Beach is the most popular, Suan Son Pradipat Beach is on the south-side and Khao Takiab Beach is overlooked by a glistening Buddha.

But the coastline isn’t the only attraction! Work on your backswing at Black Mountain Golf Club (voted Thailand’s best golf course); get involved in an art workshop at Baan Sillapin Hua Hin Artist Village ; learn a new outdoor sport at Black Mountain Wake Park ; or make a splash on the rides and slides at Vana Nava Water Jungle !

Any wine connoisseurs in the house? See what Thailand’s bottles are all about at either Monsoon Valley Vineyard or Hua Hin Hills Vineyard .

Located between Phetchaburi and Chumphon, about an hour’s drive from Hua Hin is the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park , home to the mystical Phraya Nakhon Cave.

Travel time: 2h50mins

• Hua Hin day trips from Bangkok

Staying overnight in Hua Hin? Check out the best day trips and tours from Hua Hin !

8 – Walk among towering bamboo and play in waterfalls in Nakhon Nayok

Welcome to the town of the extraordinaire, where getting a fish pedicure while eating a bowl of noodles on the riverside is totally normal!

Are we in Kyoto or Nakhon Nayok? Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram temple’s bamboo grove will have you thinking otherwise! No need to travel to Japan here …

Home to the majestic nine-tier Sarika Waterfall (Namtok Sarika), cool off in its natural pools positioned at varying levels of the cascade. Another waterfall that’s close by is Wang Takrai Waterfall .

A haven for outdoor activities, get your adrenaline going when cruising down river rafting rapids or tearing up the mud through the jungle on an ATV.

Or, if you prefer the more mellow side of life, hit up one of the nature trails or spend the afternoon drinking green tea at a riverside cafe.

On the cultural and historical front, check out the Royal Military Academy Museum with its golf course, archery activities and parachuting drills; the Khmer Ban Dong Lakhon Archeological Site ; and the Wat Tham Sarika (วัดถ้ำสาริกา) temple built inside of a cave!

P.S. Don’t leave this destination without trying its famed mango plums known as ‘maprang.’

Travel time: 1h54mins

• Nakhon Nayok day trips from Bangkok

9 – Great for sightseeing temples, join life in the slow lane in Ratchaburi

Masses of tourists head for Ratchaburi on the daily when visiting its world-famous Floating Market, but there’s a lot more to the province than its iconic shopping waterway .

With the Mekong flowing through parts of the town, it has a traditional-rural feel to it. It’s the perfect introduction to quintessential Thai country-life living.

It’s the type of destination to tickle your cultural fancies, whether talking natural or artificial! Bordering Myanmar, there are especially loads of religious monuments.

Uncover a Buddha statue inside of a cave at Khao Ngu Stone Park ; investigate Wat Mahathat Worawihan (enshrining Buddha relics) and marvel at the silver temple known as Wat Pho Rattanaram (also called Wat Poe Khu).

Watch a traditional puppet show at Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum .

Try something different and rejuvenate tired muscles at Bo Khlueng Hot Stream (ธารน้ำร้อนบ่อคลึง), where waters reach up to 60 degrees Celsius, and on the way here is the multi-tiered Khao Chon Waterfall (น้ำตกเก้าชั้น).

Fun fact: Ratchaburi is famous for its ceramic dragon jars with engravings of fiery scenes. Visit Ong Ritsilp Factory (โรงโอ่งฤทธิ์ศิลป์) or create your own with เรื่องของโอ่ง Pottery Legend.

Travel time: 1h49mins

10 – Craving a bit of TLSea? Hit up the beaches in Pattaya

A destination favored by locals for a weekend oceanic getaway, there’s loads of things to do in Pattaya . Work on your tan at Pattaya or Jomtien Beach, feast on seafood or go snorkeling in less than 2.5 hours!

Part of the Chonburi Province, it straddles the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Catch a short boat ride over to pristine Koh Larn Island (also known as Coral Island ) for a playground of watersports and activities.  

It’s a perfect amalgamation of things to do, catering to all types of travelers’ needs, whether you’re on a family vacay, a romantic trip for two, or even solo adventures.

Plus, there are so many themed playgrounds both outdoors and inside it’s hard to choose: Ramayana Water Park , Mini Siam, Harbor Land Pattaya and Legend Siam .

Kids especially love the Underwater World Pattaya aquarium, the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium and Pattaya Sheep Farm .

Get your thrills on bungee jumping 240 meters from the top of the Pattaya Park Tower, or go ziplining instead at Tarzan Adventure Pattaya .

Take some time out among the botanicals at the stunning 202-hectare Nong Nooch Tropical Garden , and make sure to keep time for the mesmerizing Sanctuary of Truth !

Travel time: 2h12mins

• Pattaya day trips from Bangkok

11 – Walk among 116 monuments, from Thai junk boats to mystical Mount Meru at Ancient City (Muang Boran)

If you aren’t able to visit some sites on your Thailand Bucket List during this vacation (or you weren’t born in the right century), not to fear when the Ancient City is near!

Established in 1963 (and opening to the public in 1971), this open-air museum is incredible, and it truly feels as if you’re traveling through multiple worlds, eras, cities and islands.

Divided into various zones that span different periods, it houses replicas of important temples, palaces, and sculptures and displays actual remains and real artifacts from some of the destinations (now kept here for safekeeping and preservation).

Witness the best of Lanna architecture in the ‘Northern Region’ zone (where places like Chiang Mai are situated). The ‘Northeastern Region’ zone (known as Isaan) is jam-packed with cultural and religious monuments!

Honing in on Thai civilization chronicling the Ayutthaya history, the ‘Central Region’ features buildings and landmarks from the Siam Kingdom. The ‘Southern Region’ showcases the different religions and cultures hailing from Thailand’s tropical areas.

The Suvarnabhumi zone (meaning “Golden Land”) celebrates ancient myths, folklore and ideologies, and it’s a fascinating part of the park!

Travel time: 57 minutes

• Ancient City tickets & tours

12 – Discover a pottery island: Ko Kret

From a former shipping canal created during the Ayutthaya era to a manmade island perfect for temple-hopping, history buffs and interesting cultural workshops, Ko Kret is right around the corner.

Thanks to its proximity to Bangkok, there’s no need to rush through the day. Join an authentic coffee-making workshop, or visit the Pa Tum Pottery Factory.

On that note, the island is famous for producing Thai-style pottery, with many shops selling all sorts of handmade glazed ceramics.

Young Thais love this artificial islet, arriving just to snap pics at its uber-pretty cafes.

Lounge over the water on nets at Rongsi Studio (with plenty photo ops), enjoy a traditional tea set at Homm TeaHouse and feast on classic Thai dishes next to the river at Yok Yen Kuen Bok restaurant.

The main temple you see here is known as the Phra Chedi Mutao , modeled in the Mon-style. There are quite a few Mon-related sites around the island (like Wat Poramai Yikawat temple and museum), as most of the community are descendants of the Mon hill tribe.

Travel time: 30 minutes

13 – Meet aliens and take a peek inside a Giant’s House at Dream World (in the Thanyaburi district)

Insane photo spots featuring fairytale scenes and buildings from around the globe … Grand shows and parades … And fantabulous rides on land and slides through water, the hours easily slip away at Dream World amusement park.

Ride the cable car across nearly half the park and sweep in the bird-eye views, or enjoy a scenic train ride instead!

Snap pics in front of the Seven Wonders of The World (in down-sized versions), get lost in a world of fantasy movies inside Photopia, find Cupid inside the Love Garden and let your imaginations run wild in the Crazy Zone.

Discover attractions for all ages: hold onto your stomachs on Tornado, fly on the Sky Coaster, float along the Grand Canyon, escape ghosts inside the Haunted Mansion, and try to survive on the Vikings ship.

Test your driving skills on the Go Kart track and build snowmen at Snow Town (where temperatures are below -10 degrees Celsius!).

Skip the lines and get your Dream World tickets  here! 

Travel time: 42 minutes

Hot tip: Check out theme parks in Bangkok

14 – Cruise around Koh Larn island in a glass-bottom kayak and snorkel

It’s time to get your snorkel on ( yup , you did read that correctly) in Koh Larn, otherwise known as Coral Island, but also spelled Ko Lan .

Before getting your hopes up, for the best snorkeling , skip the beaches and explore the ocean around Koh Larn during a snorkel boat tour.

But that doesn’t mean there isn’t fun in the sun down on its shores!

• Tien Beach is sought-after for its calm aqua-blue water.
• Go parasailing at Tawaen Beach.
• Nual Beach is great for families.
• Ta Yai Beach, nestled on the north side, is the smallest and quietest, away from the crowds.
• Tong Lang gets busy but not as much as Koh Larn’s main beach, Samae Beach.

Get your fix of watersports from sea kayaking to SUPing, parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, canoeing, sea walking and fishing! Let’s not forget the fresh seafood restaurant options! Yum!

One of the easiest ways to enjoy this little slice of heaven is with scheduled day trips to Coral Island and Pattaya. To get to Koh Larn, travel from Bangkok to Pattaya and catch a 45-minute ferry to the island.

Travel time: 2.5 hours

• Koh Larn day trips from Bangkok

15 – Arrive in the middle of a market by train at Maeklong Railway Market (Hoop Rom Market)

How many times have you gone shopping alongside a running train track in the midst of mountains?

Unless you’ve traveled to Hanoi before (minus the hills), the Maeklong Railway Market is one of the most unique day trips from Bangkok!

The atmosphere is electric, and the mix of people or the approaching train is chaotic in the best way possible.

Makeshift tables spill over with goods; vendors offer the freshest produce on floor fabrics; permanent stores sell souvenirs, and bright Thai handicrafts hang from tin roofs.

Arriving here by the train that runs through the market is unparalleled, disembarking in the business of it all! Your windows are so close to the shoppers and sellers; it’s pretty insane!

(Catch the train from Wongwian Yai Station in Bangkok.)

Shop for second-hand and new books, jewelry, trinkets, hippy clothes, elephant pants and strings of lucky birds. Cafes sell coffee from window counters, and it’s an epic destination for street food!

The real trick is trying to photograph the perfect shot without a million hands in front of you after the same thing — good luck!

Travel time: 1h8mins

• Maeklong Railway market day trips

Read more: Best Bangkok tours

16 – Stand in awe over the pink dragon spiral temple in Nakhon Pathom

Ever heard of the famous “bamboo tattoo temple?” Or perhaps you’ve seen that image of a gigantic naga dragon circling the entirety of a pastel pink tower, ahem, we mean, temple?

Welcome to weird and wonderful Nakhon Pathom, a perfect combination of age-old Thai culture and history, mixed in with some odd modern additions.

Get a new spiritual chop at the Wat Bang Phra where Buddhist monks bamboo poke the tattoos themselves (and the design is specifically chosen for you).

Dating as far back as the third century, explore the world’s largest and oldest chedi at Phra Pathom Chedi . Discover how royalty once lived at the restored Sanam Chandra Palace (built between 1902 and 1911). There are five buildings to investigate, as well as a Ganesha shrine.

Got an affinity for vintage automobiles and planes? Visit the Jesada Technik Museum ! Or, say hello to (a replica of) Iron Man and the Incredible Hulk at Hangar Cafe!

Sit front row for a cultural show at Sampran Riverside and learn more on the ethnology of Thailand (in wax form) at the Thai Human Imagery Museum .

Boat ride through lotus ponds and shop the Wat Lampaya Floating Market (Nakhon Pathom Floating Market).

Travel time: 53 minutes

• Nakhon Pathom day trips from Bangkok

17- Go whale watching and see other natural phenomena in Phetchaburi

Fun fact: Bryde’s whales are one of the more uncommon whale species to see out and about. However, in places such as South Africa, New Zealand, Brazil … and the Gulf of Thailand, these extraordinary creatures are often spotted gliding underwater or breaching mid-air if you’re lucky!

Positioned on the north of the Malay Peninsula, with the Gulf of Thailand to the east, the Phetchaburi province is one of the few places for a whale-watching excursion!

Apart from the once-in-a-lifetime experience, other things to do in Phetchaburi are a perfect amalgamation of mountains and the ocean.

Sticking to Mother Nature’s finest, deep dive into the heart of Thailand’s biggest national park: Kaeng Krachan National Park!

Boasting rich biodiversity, there are plenty of stunning hikes inside the UNESCO-listed rainforest, and it forms part of the Tenasserim Range. Hunt down Pala-U Waterfall and head to the top of Panoenthung Scenic Point for breathtaking views!

Not far from the park is the mesmerizing Tham Khao Luang cave, where streaks of sunlight through its ceiling draw in influencers!

Learn about salt production at the Petchaburi Salt Farms , or get salty at the beaches, ending the day with a mouth-watering seafood lunch.

Travel time. 2.5 hours

18 – Mentioned by Marco Polo, history buffs fall in love with Lopburi

A landscape of ancient ruins, you can spend hours walking around Lopburi town, where relics and remnants are scattered in between houses, alleys and roadsides, and its most famous residents are … monkeys!

Well, that’s typically the case at Phra Prang Sam Yot (also called Phra Prang Sam Yod), where local crab-eating macaque monkeys live around the temple grounds.

Considered one of the most notable spiritual sites around, it’s usually included in temple-hopping day trips or with Ayutthaya.

This 13th-century sanctuary forms part of the Lopburi Heritage Walk, along with 12th-century Khmer-rooted Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (once the main temple in Lopburi) and King Narai’s Palace i.e. Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (ruler during the Ayutthaya period).

Other fascinating ruins that make up the walk are what’s left of Ban Wichayen (Wichayen House) — the former residence of a foreign diplomat circa the 17th century — and Wat Sao Paulo (Church of St. Paul).

With historic sites and complexes aside, get your whimsical on running between giant sunflowers! There are three places where the brightly-colored sunshine florals grow, blooming between November and February.

Travel time: 2h45mins

19 – Visit the animal farms in family-friendly Suan Phueng

Are you vacationing in Bangkok with the little ones? A wonderful destination for families; visit an alpaca farm, a Swiss-themed rendition and a waterpark in Suan Phueng!

Meet the fluffy mammals in person at Alpaca Hill , as well as ducks, prairie dogs and flamingos; pet the sheep at Swiss Valley with extra activities like pony rides, archery and mini golf available; and make waves at The Resort Water Park.

Dine in the middle of a stream, go on wagon rides, feed the animals and join a pottery lesson at The Scenery Vintage Farm .

Spot swans swimming gracefully by at Veneto Suanphueng (เวเนโต้ สวนผึ้ง), drive an automobile peddle boat on the lake, trick your eye at the 4D gallery and hang out with the animals at its petting zoo.

A former mine has been converted into the Khao Ngu Stone Park . Sail between the rock formations or meander along a snake-shaped boardwalk built across the lake.

Get crafty at a candle-making factory doubling as a cafe (Baan Hom Tien) — and on that note, in the country for unusually-themed eateries, feel like you’re in Chile at Moai Coffee with its Polynesian monolithic statues (known as moai).

Travel time: 2h33mins

20 – Go on a Michelin food hunting expedition in Nonthaburi

Just a short half-hour drive from Bangkok, arrive in Nonthaburi for the authentic food and culture! (Plus, it’s literally around the corner from the city, but it feels worlds away).

Serving up plates of classic Royal Thai food (the term for cuisine from Central Thailand), one-Michelin-star Suan Thip is set around a pond in the middle of riverside gardens (open from 11 AM to 9 PM).

More options with the Michelin seal of approval in Nonthaburi include Dhabkwan (in a teak teahouse), Kaeng Pa (Loong Sa-Nga) for Thai curry fans, Banya (translating to ‘grandmother’s house, it’s all about home cooking), Chai Phochana for seafood, and third-generation run Pae Bronze Pot Porridge 38 Years .

Treat yourself to pancakes (with a view) in a jungle of tropical banana trees at Bananoffee Cafe. If you’re in Nonthaburi in the late afternoon, stay for the quirky Owl Market .

Add the Museum of Nonthaburi (พิพิธภัณฑ์จังหวัดนนทบุรี), Wat Chomphuwek and Wat Sangkhathan Buddhist temples and the Tooney Toy Museum to your sightseeing lists for this city!

Travel tip: Enjoy a longtail boat tour to Thonburi and Thonburi along Bangkok’s canals  

21 – See the Grand Canyon of Thailand in Chonburi

From zipline adventures to wine-tasting expeditions, stone quarries and glistening beaches, Chonburi is perfect for a day outdoors!

Many locals favor Pattaya , but Chonburi is, in fact, the closest seaside town to the Thai capital!

Situated south of Bangkok, it’s part of the Gulf of Thailand on the eastern side, and with a 45-minute drive from its city center, reach the coastline. From here, boat across to islands like Koh Sichang and Coral Island .

Or, stay closer to the shoreline at its beaches, like Bang Saen Beach.

Chon Buri’s Snow Mountain is dubbed the “Grand Canyon,” and another unique tourist attraction in the area is Thailand’s most extensive butterfly garden, Saithip Butterfly Garden (which has a Bee Museum and Orchid Farm, too).

If you consider yourself a foodie, the Nong Mon Market is a must! Not anything fancy and very local vibes, it’s a treasure trove of quintessential traditional street foods, like sticky rice served in bamboo shoots, dried fish snacks, Thai arabica coffee and deep-fried seafood dim sum.

Travel time: 1h50mins

22 – Meet the country’s biggest Buddha at Ang Thong

Mark off how many golden Buddha statues you can see around Ang Thong, from reclining figurines to sitting giants!

One of the main reasons why masses of tourists flock to the “gold basin” is to catch sight of Thailand’s largest Buddha statue, 92 meters tall, located inside Wat Muang temple.

But it’s not the only Siddhartha in town … Wat Khun Inthapramun houses the longest Buddha statue in Thailand: the 50-meter-long reclining Buddha. At Wat Siroi , you’ll see a massive statue of Buddha in a seated position.

Sang Kra Tai Temple (now engulfed by vines) and Wat Thanon are two extra sites worth exploring.

Luring in travelers with its cultural facets, why not partake in a traditional Thai workshop?

Learn the art of bamboo-basket weaving at Bang Chao Cha Community , make your own percussion instrument at the Tambon Ekkarat Drum-Making Village and get accustomed to handcrafted Thai-style colorful clay dolls at Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Center .

Travel time: 1h52mins

23 – Hang out in the sun on Koh Samet, a gorgeous uncrowded island oasis

To reach the closest island to Bangkok remotely resembling your classic ‘deserted-away-from-the-world-Thai-jungle-vibes,’ all you need to do is travel to Rayong (about two hours away), then catch a 30-minute ferry over Koh Samet!

(Regular Thailand travelers, you’ll catch our drift!)

Sitting in the Gulf of Thailand on the eastern side, Koh Samet surprisingly isn’t on everyone’s radar, but that means it’s retained a relaxing atmosphere and is a superb option for a family beach outing in heaven.

• Ao Wong Duan (Duean) Beach, also called Full Moon Beach
• Ao Prao Beach
• Ao Pakarang Beach
• Ao Hin Khok Beach
• Haad Sai Kaew – Diamond Beach

If you’ve always dreamed of riding a scooter, Koh Samet is the perfect place to cruise around on a moped or join a scooter tour.

Enjoy a beach massage, feel the thrill of jet skiing or try something new like parasailing!

Travel time: 3 hours

Where to next?

Thanks to Bangkok’s central positioning, it’s easy to explore the rest of Thailand from here! But some of its not-to-miss destinations are located a little further away than what’s convenient for a day trip.

If you’ve opted to make Bangkok basecamp for your vacay in the Land of Smiles, but are keen on a weekend away or a two-day trip close enough (without an entire day on the road/sea), check out these other incredible places to visit in Thailand.

Wake up on the edge of a mountain, drinking your morning coffee with your head in a sea of floating clouds in Khao Kho (5.5 to 6 hours away from Bangkok). The temperatures are fresh year-long, and its unique dining options with jaw-dropping settings make this paradise a must!

Nothing like a typical southern Thai isle, eastern Koh Chang has its own unique allure. Expect deep-green jungle surroundings (the towns in between) and wild coastlines with plenty of hippy vibes! With car and ferry rides, it takes about six hours to reach from Bangkok.

If there’s one other place you have to experience that’s not Bangkok or Phuket, it’s gotta be Chiang Mai! Catch a direct one-hour flight from the capital here (or drive nine). Check out the things to do in Chiang Mai , and feel as if you’ve discovered another side of Thailand altogether in this green oasis!

Final thoughts

Year after year, Thailand’s capital clocks in the Top 3 of the World’s Most Visited Cities — it’s no shock, with such an outpouring of things to do in Bangkok !

Just as much as there is to explore within its perimeters, there’s just as much magic to uncover outside of the city, as you can see with these best day trips from Bangkok! For your next vacation, consider one of these epic daytime adventures #leavenoregrets.

Have you visited this part of Thailand before? What are some of your favorite Bangkok memories? Share with us in the comments; we love hearing from you, dear reader (said in Julie Andrews voice).

As always, happy travels in the Land of Smiles !

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!

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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 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  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 is 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 buying a combo ticket , which includes entry to the Ancient City, is best. Take the green BTS line to Chang Erawan Station and order a Grab Taxi the rest of the way. 

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

No Bangkok trip 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 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. 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 you should not miss while exploring Bangkok. 

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 to witness; everything happens rather quickly, and it’s amazing to see how well placements on the tracks have been conditioned. 

Maeklong is quite a popular tourist attraction outside Bangkok, so it’s easy to  join an organized day trip  or arrange a private driver. While the market is open from 6 am to 6 pm, timing your visit is key. 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.

A really great destination for an unforgettable day trip from Bangkok is the small town of  Lopburi , also known as the City of Monkeys. This place is easily reached by train, private taxi , 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, 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. 

Recommended by Vidyut from Triplyzer.

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 Sun worshippers. 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 .

Ang Thong is a province 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 .

Well, that’s all from me. I hope you enjoyed reading about the best places to visit near Bangkok! If you think 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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Thailand Tours & Trips from Bangkok

Find your perfect adventure! We have 305 tours of Thailand that start in Bangkok, Thailand. The most popular month is September, and tour lengths range between 1 and 29 days.

250+ Thailand tour packages from Bangkok with 10,885 reviews

• Island Hopping
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Thailand Island Hopper

Tolle Tour mit super Guides

Thai Experience

An Unforgettable Journey: A Review of My Introductory Thai Experience with Dan, the Exceptional Tour Guide" From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the elephant sanctuary in Phuket, my introductory Thai experience with Dan as my tour guide was nothing short of extraordinary. As a seasoned traveler, I've embarked on many adventures, but none have left such an indelible mark on my heart and mind as this one. From the moment I met Dan, his warmth and enthusiasm for sharing the beauty and culture of Thailand were palpable. His deep knowledge of the country's history, customs, and traditions added layers of depth to every experience, making each moment rich with meaning. Our journey began in the vibrant city of Bangkok, where Dan expertly navigated the chaotic streets, introducing me to hidden gems and local haunts that I would have never discovered on my own. From savoring street food delicacies at the bustling markets every moment was a revelation. One of the highlights of our time in Bangkok was visiting Wat Pho, home to the majestic reclining Buddha. Dan's insights into Buddhist philosophy and the significance of each intricate detail of the temple left me in awe. It was a truly spiritual experience that I will always cherish. As we journeyed south through the country we travelled to places that include the following: Khao Sok, Koh Phangan, Phi Phi islands and Phuket. Dan's passion for adventure shone through as we explored the lush jungles and picturesque countryside. From trekking through the National Park to staying in jungle trees and floating bungalows, every day brought new adventures and unforgettable memories. But what truly sets Dan apart is his genuine care and concern for his guests. Whether it was ensuring that I was comfortable and well taken care of or going above and beyond to accommodate my interests and preferences, Dan's hospitality knew no bounds. He not only guided me through Thailand but also opened my eyes to the kindness and generosity of the Thai people. In conclusion, my introductory Thai experience with Dan was nothing short of magical. His passion for sharing the beauty and richness of Thailand, coupled with his unparalleled expertise and genuine warmth, made it an adventure of a lifetime. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone looking to explore the wonders of this incredible country. Dan is not just a tour guide; he is a true ambassador of Thai culture and hospitality. His company Intro Travel are truly blessed to have an employee like him and they work hand in hand together in synergy. Dan from the bottom of my heart thank you for the best memory’s of my life.

• In-depth Cultural

Explore Northern Thailand

The trip delivered its promise.

South to North - 15 days

Incredible Experience! I did the 15 Day North - South Thailand Tour with Jamie and Jonny as my group leaders and I genuinely couldn't have had a better time. The itinerary was perfect and fitted in so many amazing experiences that I wouldn't have even know about if I had travelled by myself. The trip ranged from the most chilled night in Khao Sok (which is gorgeous!) to fun filled nights out in Krabi, Phi Phi and Bangkok, snorkelling off of speed boats, vibey nights in jazz bars (Chang Mai), all rounded off with the most incredible and ethical elephant experience. There is literally something for everyone on this tour and I cannot recommend it enough! (For Jonny: please remember everything on this tour is optional) For me though, the best part of the trip was the people! I built some beautiful friendships, both with the other travellers and with Jamie and Jonny, who were the perfect group leaders. They were always there if needed (safety first), but got involved with everything and always felt like a friend, setting a wholesome vibe for the tour from the very first night. If I get the opportunity I will definitely go on more tours with Feel Free! P.s. If you're thinking of booking don't hesitate! and if you have any questions about any of the tours, Adam and Matt are insanely speedy at responding to questions on the websites chat function.

Northern Thailand Adventure

Smile was an amazing guide

• Food & Culinary

Thailand Island Hopper - 9 days

It was amazing, I’ve not done a group tour before but I’d definitely do it again! The activities were varied and it was nice to have someone to guide you and take care of everything. Everywhere we stayed was lovely and beautiful. Also liked how there were times to break out and have time to explore yourself, a nice balance. Jamie our leader was really great, always checking in on everyone and was great fun! Would recommend!

Thai Intro 18 Day

Just finished the 18 day tour with Dan (and Joe!) and it was truly epic! I had the time of my life…didn’t have to worry about anything, perfectly organised and I met some amazing people! I had to have a medical procedure on my foot during the last leg of the tour, which was pretty traumatic! Luckily Dan went above and beyond, took me to hospital visits and was a shoulder to cry on (quite literally!). Along with his and others’ support I only missed one activity, which I’m soo thankful for. Dan is a credit to Intro, and I’ve definitely fallen for Thailand ❤️. Deposit paid for my next tour, and I can’t wait to do it all over again! ????

• Coach / Bus

5 DAYS EXPLORE THAILAND

Boat trip on ha long bay was fantastic - food amazing and lots of activities. Our hotel on first night was changed and was disappointing but hotel on return was better

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express

Our tour guide Joey was amazing! So thoughtful and made sure we were all ok and happy. We stayed in a hotel in the river which was lovely and got a Thai massage in another hotel in Chiang Mei. We attended an amazing cooking class also

Southern Thailand Sojourn: Nightlife & National Parks

The trip was fantastic. Made some great friends and visited some amazing places. Couldn’t recommend this tour enough! Our guide Chai was incredible and treated us like family - he made the experience unforgettable! Don’t be put off as a solo traveller as there were many in the group.

Thai Intro 9 Day

Just finished my 9 day thai intro tour and it was AMAZING!!! This is a tour everyone should exerperienze. It had a lot of fun activities, amazing people, fabulous views, great cultures,good food and ofcourse the best experiences. If you are thinking about booking this trip don’t just book it right now. And you clearly get your money’s worth Our group leader Joe Gardner was incredible, he couldn’t have made the trip more amazing for us. He clearly knows what he is doing, and was always there when we needed him.

Experience Thailand 6 Days, Small Group Tour (English Only)

I can say I thoroughly enjoyed this trip!! Sunny - our guide & Mr Hans - our driver were fantastic, always caring, friendly, kind, thoughtful, & considerate. Sunny never stopped feeding us local food treats the whole journey!???? Mr Hans kept the ‘bus’ immaculate at all times & always had a bottle of cold water & a cold wet towel pack ready for us, when we returned back from our activities. The accommodations were superb & in good locations. Our daily activities were varied, with a good mixture of travelling, history, scenery, culture, and of course lots of fun! LOVE-LOVE-LOVED it all. I would highly recommend this trip, especially ask for Sunny & Mr Hans ???? THANKYOU

I had an absolutely great time on this tour. Jack was one of the best guides I have had the pleasure of travelling with. The tour moved at a great pace and covered a good variety of temples and other tourist attractions. Food was generally fantastic with a few minor exceptions. Main criticism is that the hike is a lot harder than it is made out to be. We had a great time on it but the mountains are steep, muddy, slippery and fairly numerous and theres a lot of wading through rivers and water that was not explained properly before hand. I also found G Adventures very slow to respond to queries via email, although the information was generally good when they did. We had a fantastic tour none the less and Jack really made the tour one of the easiest and most pleasant tours I have taken so far. If youre looking for a nice way to immerse yourself in amd learn about Thai culture and history, this tour would be a great option. I would be happy to travel with G Adventures again in the future

• Local Living

Northern Thailand: Hilltribes & Villages

I am so glad we had Sunni as our tour guide. He was amazing and organised the additional activities best suited for the group. He was very informative, friendly and passionate about his country. I think he had a good balance with the amount of time he spent with us and then giving us space as a group. He was always available to us (day and night). I had a fabulous time and the best group - thank you GAdventures!

Thailand: Night Markets & Blue Waters

Best trip of my life. Met amazing people and traveled an awesom country!

What people love about Thailand Tours from Bangkok

Taro our tour guide was first class. Made the trip for me and my son can’t praise him high enough. Miss communication with admin and me in emails regarding which hotels we would be staying in on the trip were an issue at the beginning of the tour which I wasnt happy about. The tour itself was great. Once in a life time trip for us

Just finished the 13 day Thai experience tour and would 100% recommended to anyone. On day one we were greeted by our tour leader Dan and made to feel welcome by him from minute 1. Dan went above and beyond to make sure that we all had settled in well and made it a trip of a lifetime. He was very knowledgable about Thailand and knew his way around with ease. A special mention to him for going out his way and adding an extra activity by taking us all to Songkran festival which was genuinely one of the best days of the tour!

Very nice balance of long travel days followed more settled sight seeing day. Loved the freetime options occasionally too, often tours are so critivall3timed, no sparetime to shop for souvenirs or just do as you wish. Arjan was a very attentive guide, going above and beyond to help some clients.

Tours starting from Bangkok

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• Thailand Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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Same same, but different. This Thailish T-shirt philosophy sums up Bangkok, a city where the familiar and the exotic collide like the flavors on a plate of pàt tai.

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Benjakiti Park

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Thailand Road Trip Guide: 5 Epic Ideas Under 3hrs from Bangkok

Epic hikes, wild elephant safaris, and top-quality vineyards — go on a fun Thailand road trip, less than three hours away from Bangkok.

In my opinion, road trips are the best kind of adventure. We’ve been lucky enough to go on some pretty amazing road trips — from living in a camper van around Iceland’s Golden Circle , exploring Western Australia ‘s coastal drives and even Spain’s Catalonia region .

We love Thailand, but it’s probably one of the last places you’d think of when picking a road trip destination.

The view during most of our Bangkok to Hua Hin road trip 🤯

But with so many underrated towns less than three hours away, Bangkok is actually an excellent starting base for a road trip. Each place has something unique to offer — thrilling activities, breathtaking hikes, beautiful temples, and animal encounters.

Renting a car was also really easy, but more on that at the end of the article. Still unconvinced? Here are five ideas for an epic Thailand road trip!

Click to jump to each section: Kanchanaburi | Hua Hin | Khao Yai | Pattaya | Ayutthaya

1) Bangkok to Kanchanaburi  Itinerary

Distance: 2hr 7min (124km)  Recommended duration: 3D2N

Our first Thailand road trip idea is Kanchanaburi . It’s a town with stunning natural landscapes and a harrowing past. A bit of history — during World War II, prisoners were forced by the Japanese army to construct a bridge to connect Thailand and Myanmar.

An estimated 100,000 prisoners died building this bridge that passed through Kanchanaburi, hence the name Death Railway.

Death Railway Museum

The Death Railway Museum pays tribute to the prisoners of war who died building the railway. We’d recommend visiting this museum first so you’ll have a better understanding of the town’s history before seeing the landmarks.

Entrance fee:  ฿150 (~S$6) Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM How to get there:  2min drive from Kanchanaburi Station ( Google Maps )

Wat Tham Suea Temple 

Wat Tham Suea Temple is one of Kanchanaburi’s most famous attractions, with a mix of Thai and Chinese architectural features.

The temple is also called the Tiger Cave Temple as the area was rumoured to be home to a family of tigers. Don’t worry though, you won’t find any tigers there!

Be sure to spot the 18m-tall golden Buddha and colourful steps (157 total!) to the temple.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  5AM – 5PM How to get there:  27min drive from Kanchanaburi Station ( Google Maps )

River Kwai Death Railway Bridge

But of course, you can’t visit Kanchanaburi without seeing the Death Railway for yourself. There are many viewing spots along the track, but the section at Tham Kra Sae Bridge has the best scenery.

*Pro-tip: Time your visit during train passings (see  train schedule  for fixed timings). Come an hour earlier before the train arrives to walk along the track!

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours How to get there:  Lum Sum, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand

* Pro-tip : Not sure of doing a Thailand road trip? Take a guided day tour to Kanchanburi from Bangkok instead, and see Death Railway Bridge among other attractions.

Elephants World

Sign up for an elephant daycare at Elephants World , a sanctuary for elephants rescued from all over Thailand. There are currently 10 elephants living there and they spend most of the day roaming around freely.

You’ll also get to live a day in the life of a mahout (elephant trainer), starting with prepping food for the elephants! Elephants spend most of their time eating, consuming 10% of their body weight daily.

We got to cut fruits, cook rice balls, and — my favourite bit — feed the elephants.

After that, head down to the river to bathe the elephants. Spending the day with these gentle giants was a very humbling, wholesome experience — definitely one for the books!

Cost:  ~S$85/pax via Klook for a one-day program (incl. lunch and round trip transfer) Tour timing:  9AM – 4PM Meeting point: Hotel pick up, or meet directly at 90/9 Moo 4, Baan Nong Hoi, Amphoe Mueang, Tambon Wang Dong, Kanchanaburi, 71190, Thailand

Erawan National Park

Photo credit: @nomadteacher via Instagram

An hour’s drive from Kanchanaburi’s city centre lies Erawan National Park . There are several hiking trails, but the real reason everyone visits is the seven-tiered Erawan Falls. The cascading waterfalls and vibrant emerald ponds might remind you of Kuang Si Falls in Laos !

After enjoying the waterfalls, explore the park’s many caves like Phra That Cave and Wang Bah Dan Cave.

Entrance fee: ฿300 (~S$12) Opening hours: 8AM – 4:30PM How to get there:  1hr drive from Kanchanaburi Station ( Google Maps )

Accommodation in Kanchanaburi: Kanchanaburi City Hotel  is a 6-minute drive from the Death Railway Museum. A Japanese-Style Twin Room starts from ~S$45/night .

2) Bangkok to Hua Hin Itinerary

Distance: 2hr 45min (200km)  Recommended duration: 4D3N

Hua Hin is a charming seaside town surrounded by vast national parks and pristine beaches — the perfect road trip in Thailand for nature lovers!

Road trip alternative: Instead of doing a road trip, consider a join-in tour to Hua Hin from Bangkok or a customisable private tour .

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

One of the best things to do in Hua Hin is to visit Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park . Khao Sam Roi Yot translates to “mountain with three hundred peaks”, which refers to the park’s series of limestone hills.

This park is massive and we recommend spending a full day here. Here are our favourite spots in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park:

Khao Daeng Viewpoint

The trek up to Khao Daeng Viewpoint is one that’s low effort and high reward. It takes just 30 minutes to reach the 157m-tall peak, where panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand await.

Entrance fee:  ฿200 (~S$8) — Keep this ticket as it covers entry to the entire park (incl. landmarks below)! Opening hours:  6AM – 8PM How to get there:  1hr drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Phraya Nakhon Cave

Phraya Nakhon Cave is arguably Hua Hin’s most recognised landmark, taking a 45-minute (mostly uphill) hike to reach. The Khuha Kharuehat Pavilion is the cave’s main attraction, perched on a small hill at its centre — built in 1890 in honour of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

*Pro-tip:  Aim to arrive between 10:30AM and 12PM when the sun is directly above the cave! It casts a beautiful light over the pavilion.

Opening hours:  8AM – 3PM How to get there:  20min drive from Khao Daeng Viewpoint; Park at Bang Pu Beach ( Google Maps )

Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh

Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh was one of the highlights of our Thailand road trip. It looks like a set from a blockbuster film — I guarantee you’ll find yourself saying “wow” at least a few times here.

An hour-long boat ride is the best way to take in the beauty of this place. Our boatman even stopped at several fantastic photo areas — like the spot in front of the yellow boat above!

Cost:  ฿500/boat (~S$20) — sits up to 5 pax Opening hours:  8AM – 5PM How to get there:  1hr from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Kiteboarding at Hua Hin Beach

Head to Hua Hin Beach for a thrilling session of kiteboarding at Thailand’s  first kiteboarding school ! Learn the fundamentals of the sport, from setting up the kite on land to controlling the kite.

Cost:  From ฿2,000/pax (~S$74) Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM How to get there:  7min drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Kui Buri National Park

You don’t have to head all the way to Africa to experience a safari. Just a 90-minute drive from Hua Hin lies Kui Buri National Park — home to 300 wild elephants!

A safari jeep tour is compulsory to explore the park. While elephant sightings aren’t guaranteed, there’s a 99% chance of seeing them on any given day. We managed to spot eight in the hour that we were there!

*Pro-tip: Rent binoculars at the visitor centre for a fee.

Cost: ฿200/pax (~S$8) entry fee; ฿850/group (~S$34), up to 8pax for a safari tour Opening hours:  8AM – 5PM How to get there:  1h 30min drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Vana Nava Water Jungle

Vana Nava Water Jungle  is the perfect place to cool down in Hua Hin’s hot weather! It’s home to Asia’s first VR water slide (we got to wear VR goggles and pick from three different themes!) as well as Thailand’s largest waterslide.

Entrance fee:  From ~S$44/pax via Klook  (incl. unlimited VR slide, locker and towel) Opening hours:  11AM – 5PM How to get there:  9min drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Hua Hin Night Market

Hua Hin Night Market  has everything you need — street food, shops, and massage spots. It pales in comparison to the larger markets in Bangkok, but there are several affordable seafood restaurants that make great dining options!

Opening hours:  6PM – 12AM How to get there:  3min drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Vana Nava Sky Bar

End the night at Vana Nava Sky Bar, Hua Hin’s highest bar! The drinks are nothing to rave about, but the views are worth coming here for. The bar also has an open Sky Deck with a glass floor walkway overlooking the whole of Hua Hin.

Cost: ฿350 (~S$14) for a drink Opening hours:  5PM – 10PM How to get there:  10min drive from Hua Hin Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Accommodation in Hua Hin: Maven Stylish Hotel  is within walking distance of Hua Hin Night Market and Hua Hin Beach. A Deluxe Room (incl. breakfast) starts from ~S$82/night for 2pax.

Read also: Epic 8D Thailand Road Trip Itinerary — Bangkok and Hua Hin Under S$900

3) Bangkok to Khao Yai  Itinerary

Distance: 2.5hrs (177km)  Recommended duration: 4D3N 

European villages, mild weather, and local wineries — a road trip to Khao Yai might just have you thinking you left the country.

Khao Yai is in a mountainous region, so the weather is cooler than in Bangkok. During the post-monsoon season (Nov – Feb), average daytime temperatures hover around mid-20°C and drop to around 15°C at night!

Road trip alternative: Khao Yai is best explored by booking a multi-day customisable private tour , like we did. Check out our itinerary for more details!

Primo Piazza

Take a short trip to “Italy” by visiting Primo Piazza , an Italian-themed village. There are a few cafes and an ice cream parlour — great for immersing in that European cafe culture.

The best part about Primo Piazza, however, are the adorable sheep, donkeys, and alpacas!

Entrance fee:  ฿200 Opening hours:  9AM – 6PM How to get there:  11min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

PB Wine Valley

PB Wine Valley is Khao Yai’s largest vineyard. It’s 350 metres above sea level, meaning there’s a slightly cooler climate — the perfect conditions for growing different varieties of grapes and other fruits.

Go on a wine tasting tour to learn about Khao Yai’s wine culture while tasting homegrown Thai wines! There are also non-alcoholic beverages available, like fresh grape juice

Cost:  From ~S$14/pax  for a 70-minute tour around the winery (includes 3 wine tasters) Opening hours:   8AM – 8PM (Sun – Thu), 8AM – 10PM (Fri and Sat) How to get there:  26min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Baan Suan Noi Resort (Hobbit Resort)

Fans of the Lord of the Rings series will love Baan Suan Noi Resort — nicknamed the Hobbit Resort! It’s actually a themed boutique hotel, but you don’t have to be a guest to roam around and take photos.

There’s also a whole room full of costumes ranging from Snow White to Harry Potter and of course, The Hobbit characters.

There are other themed areas here as well — from charming Santorini-style rooms to whimsical castles with dragons.

Cost:  ฿100 (~S$4) for entrance only; ฿150 (~S$6) for entrance and costume rental Opening hours:  8AM – 11PM How to get there:  47min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s first national park, almost three times the size of Singapore. It’s home to tons of wildlife — deer, gibbons, and even elephants!

The 25m high Haew Suwat Waterfall!

Longer hikes require a guide (because of the wildlife) but there are a few short treks that visitors can go on unaccompanied. Like the trail to the park’s tallest waterfall, the 100m high Haew Narok ! Or the Pa Deo Die viewpoint located really close to the Pak Chong Entrance.

Entrance fee:  ฿400/pax (~S$16), ฿50 (~S$2) for the car Opening hours:  6AM – 6PM How to get there:  10min from Primo Piazza ( Google Maps )

Alternative: While we recommend spending multiple days in Khao Yai, you can take a full-day trip from Bangkok to explore Khao Yao National Park if you’re pressed for time.

Jim Thompson Farm

If you’re visiting Khao Yai in December, take a trip to Jim Thompson Farm ! There are vast sunflower and rice fields — perfect for mini photoshoots.

Entrance fee:  ฿220 (~S$8.80) Opening hours:  Varies (Mid Dec – early Jan) How to get there:  1h 20min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Accommodation in Khao Yai: The Peri Hotel Khao Yai is a 6min drive from Primo Piazza. A Twin Room starts from ~S$76/night .

Read also: 4D3N Khao Yai Itinerary — The Whimsical City Just 3 Hours From Bangkok

4) Bangkok to Pattaya Itinerary

Distance: 2hrs (150km)  Recommended duration: 3D2N 

An unlikely Thailand road trip destination is Pattaya . Pattaya might mainly be known for nightlife, but this coastal city has a fair bit of adventure and culture hidden up her sleeve!

Alternative: Instead of driving yourselves, you may also take a private day trip to Pattaya from Bangkok. Comes with a driver!

Sanctuary of Truth

The Sanctuary of Truth temple is a fine display of Thai craftsmanship set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s made completely of wood — no nails!

Entrance fee:  ฿500 or   ~S$15/pax via Klook Opening hours:  8AM – 6PM, 6:30PM – 8:30PM How to get there:  13min drive from North Pattaya Bus Terminal ( Google Maps )

Shooting Experience

Hone your inner marksman at Light Bullet shooting range ! The basic shooting package includes three different guns (rifle, pistol, and revolver) with 10 rounds each.

An instructor is present to demonstrate how to use the guns, as well as ensure the safety of visitors. It was my first time firing a gun and I gotta say, it was a lot of fun!

Cost: From ~S$66/pax via Klook (for 3-gun package) Opening hours:  10AM – 5PM (last admission: 4:30PM) How to get there:  7min drive from Nong Kho Public Park ( Google Maps )

Head out to the Pattaya countryside for an epic off-road ATV adventure! This tour navigates rugged unpaved tracks, with several turns and slopes — ideal for those who love thrill.

No prior experience is needed; you’ll receive an introduction and a few training rounds before the tour begins.

Cost:  ~S$109/pax  for a 27km route,  ~S$129  for a 34km route (incl. round trip hotel transfer and lunch) Tour timings:  10:30AM – 1:30PM, 2:30PM – 5:30PM Meeting point:  Hotel pick-up

3 Mermaids Cafe

After a day of excitement, head to 3 Mermaids Cafe . The entrance is a little unassuming — but trust us, this gorgeous beachfront bar and restaurant is worth a visit!

There are several types of seating to choose from, but we couldn’t resist picking one of the booths that resemble a bird’s nest. The food here isn’t too pricey for the location — I had a Pad Thai and strawberry cream cheese smoothie for ฿199 (~S$8) each.

Cost:  ~S$15/pax via Klook  (incl. drink and road trip speed boat from Bali Hai Pier) Opening hours:  4PM – 10PM, Last entry 8PM Meeting point:  Drive 5mins from Pattaya City Sign to the Bali Hai Pier meeting point ( Google Maps )

Before leaving 3 Mermaids Cafe, drop by Cozy Beach — located right in front of it! This beach is not too crowded and is a nice spot to catch the sunset.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: 1min walk from 3 Mermaids Cafe ( Google Maps )

Koh Larn Day Trip

Pattaya has a couple of offshore islands perfect for a day trip. We went on a Koh Larn island-hopping tour and took a 30-minute speedboat ride out to the island.

Guests can opt for different packages which include water sports like a banana boat ride, jet ski or even snorkelling!

The tour also includes a set lunch; we had fried fish, tom yum soup, grilled pork, chicken wings, and steamed vegetables.

After Koh Larn island, the boat brings you to Funny Land — a floating playground with slides and trampolines. Guests have the option to play here or relax at the nearby Koh Sak Island beach!

Cost:  From ~S$33/pax via Klook  (incl. hotel pick up and lunch; water activities available as add-ons) Tour timing:  8AM – 4PM

Tappia Floating Cafe

Catch the sunset from Tappia Floating Cafe , a restaurant located on the water off the coast of Pattaya. The place is very cosy, with live music and multi-coloured beanbags!

Guests can also try squid fishing — any catches will be grilled by the staff!

The boat ticket includes one free drink, but there’s a full menu serving main courses like fried rice and sides like squid!

Photo credit: Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya

Accommodation in Pattaya: Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya is conveniently located right along Pattaya Beach and has a massive swimming pool. A Deluxe Room (incl. buffet breakfast) starts from ~S$122/night .

5) Bangkok to Ayutthaya Itinerary

Distance: 1hr 12min (76.3km)  Recommended duration: Day trip

Just an hour north of Bangkok lies the ancient city of Ayutthaya . This UNESCO World Heritage city was once a thriving commercial hub as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom (1350 – 1767), before it was destroyed in 1767 by the Burmese army.

Today, the original city lies in ruins (Ayutthaya was rebuilt in a new location). Here are some of Ayutthaya’s key landmarks!

Alternative: Yes, you can explore Ayutthaya’s top attractions within a day. That said, feel free to take a day trip from Bangkok instead of going here yourselves.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

First up, Wat Chaiwatthanaram . Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honour his mother, this Buddhist temple was inspired by Cambodia’s Angkor Wat .

Entrance fee: ฿50 (~S$2) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 4:30PM How to get there: 16min drive from Ayutthaya Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is one of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya — hosting several important royal events here.  In 1767, the temple was reduced to ruins when the Burmese army invaded Ayutthaya, chopping off or vandalising the head of the Buddha.

But one remains untouched, entwined within the roots of a Banyan tree and is now the most photographed image of Ayutthaya.

Entrance fee: ฿50 (~S$2) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 6PM How to get there: 9min drive from Ayutthaya Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Wat Yai Chaimongkhon

Before Wat Yai Chaimongkhon was looted by the Burmese in 1767, the bell-shaped Chedi here was one of the most distinctive landmarks of Ayutthaya.  It wasn’t until the 1950s that major restoration works began, including this full-sized replica of the reclining Buddha.

Entrance fee: ฿20 (~S$0.80) Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM How to get there: 6min drive from Ayutthaya Railway Station ( Google Maps )

Bang Pa-in Palace

Bang Pa-In Palace was the summer residence of the Thai royal family in the 17th century. The original structure was destroyed along with most of Ayutthaya in 1767, but restored by King Rama IV in the 1800s.

This palace complex features some Greek and Chinese architectural influences. Today, it’s used occasionally by the current royal family for receptions.

Entrance fee: ฿100 (~S$4) Opening hours: 8AM – 4PM How to get there: Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, Ban Len, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13160, Thailand

*Note: If you’d like a guide to share more about the significance and history of each landmark, consider opting for a temples day tour .

Historical Ayutthaya Temples Tour Cost: ~S$94/pax for a group of 3-4 pax(incl. round trip transfer and all entry fees) Tour timing: 8:30AM – 6PM

Our Thailand Road Trip Experience

We’ve visited Bangkok several times, but this was our first time renting a car and driving out of the city.

We had a lot of fun during our Thailand road trip, belting out classics and taking in the gorgeous landscapes. This road trip even allowed us to chance upon several beautiful photo spots (like the one above!) along the way — places we wouldn’t have discovered if we didn’t drive.

Driving in Thailand was also a lot easier than we anticipated. Google Maps was accurate and traffic outside of Bangkok is a lot lighter — though you might run into the occasional jaywalking cow. 😂

For our Thailand road trip car rental, we booked  via Klook . It was really convenient, with several car models available and multiple pickup points around Bangkok. We chose a seven-seater Honda CR-V SUV ( from ~S$78/day ) for the five of us, mainly for the larger trunk space.

Remember to bring your passport (digital copies aren’t allowed) and international driving permit during car collection.

Guided Day Trips from Bangkok

Still apprehensive about driving in another country? Don’t worry, you have the option of taking guided day tours to the destinations above (from Bangkok) instead. We’ve compiled some options for you in one table:

Take note that these day trips don’t necessarily include all the attractions listed in this article, though 😅

Which Thailand road trip idea are you most excited about? Share with us in the comments!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  YouTube  for more travel updates!

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Thailand Trains

Thailand train times & tickets, guide to train travel from bangkok.

Bangkok’s main train station,  Hua Lamphong , is the terminus for for 4 railway lines (the Southern, Northern, North Eastern and Eastern train lines) making it possible to travel by train directly from Bangkok Hua Lamphong Railway Station to most stations on Thailand’s Railway Network.

• The Southern Line goes from Bangkok south to Hua Hin, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Hat Yai and onto Penang in Malaysia.
• The Northern Line runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via Ayutthaya, Lopburi and Phitsanulok.
• The North Eastern Line goes from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, where the line splits with one section heading East toward Ubon Ratchathani and and the other North towards Nongkhai at the border with Laos.
• The Eastern Line  runs The Eastern line goes to Chachengsao where it splits into two branches, one going to Pattaya and the sea port of Marp Ta Phut, the other to near Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border.

 See below for information about popular train journeys from Bangkok .

Train Tickets from Bangkok

Use the Search Box below to buy your train tickets from Bangkok to destinations across Thailand:

• Destination: Enter your destination by clicking on the drop down list.
• Travel Date : Enter your date of travel.
• Search: Click to Find Tickets .

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. People come here to visit the temples and the wonderful pristine mountainous countryside. Chiang Mai is also a lively town at night with great restaurants and an established live music scene.

• Train times Bangkok to Chiang Mai:

Bangkok to Chumphon

Chumphon is the connection point for the ferry to Koh Tao . Chumphon itself has little of interest for tourists, but the ferry service departing from near Chumphon is the best and quickest route to get to Koh Tao which has no airport. You can take an overnight bus to Chumphon to catch the ferry but that is not as comfortable as a sleeper berth on a train.

• Train times Bangkok to Chumphon:

Bangkok to Hat Yai 

Hat Yai is the largest city in Southern Thailand where Malaysian tourists often come on holiday and other foreigners stay for a short period of time before travelling either to or from Malaysia. There are four border crossings to Malaysia within 2 hours drive from Hat Yai: Sadao, Padang Besar, Tak Bai and Satun.

• Train times Bangkok to Hat Yai:

Bangkok to Hua Hin

Hua Hin is the ‘beach of Bangkok’, is the same way that Brighton in the UK is to London or the Hamptons in the USA is to New York. Hua Hin is the weekend beach break destination of choice for people in Bangkok. Great beaches and fantastic seafront fish restaurant, in a relaxed setting, make Hua Hin a favourite with local and foreign holiday makers.

• Train times Bangkok to Hua Hin:

Bangkok to Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen is one of the four largest towns in Isan, the north eastern region of Thailand. There are two major tourists attractions in Khon Kaen: Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon temple and Khon Kaen National Museum.

• Train times from Bangkok to Khon Kaen:

Bangkok to Nong Khai  

Nong Khai is a medium sized town on the border with Laos. From Nong Khai train station it is about 2 km to the border and from there a 30 minute drive to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Nong Khai is a great place to spend a night and have dinner on the banks of the majestic Mekong River. 

• Train times from Bangkok to Nong Khai:

Bangkok to Penang (Malaysia)

Thailand train services terminate at Padang Besar on the border with Malaysia. There are 14 trains a day from Padang Besar to Butterworth Railway Station (Penang). Tickets for travel from Padang Besar to Penang are available for purchase at the train station.

Train Times from Bangkok to Padang Besar:

Bangkok to Surat Thani

Surat Thani is the connection point for ferry services to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, location of the Full Moon Party. The train is an excellent way to travel done to the islands. Overnight sleeper trains arrive in the morning to connection with joint bus and boat services taking passengers effortlessly to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan in time for lunch.

• Train times Bangkok to Surat Thani:

Bangkok to Trang (for Koh Lipe)

Trang is a great place to visit and sample the excellent and unique cuisine. Trang is also the connection point from the railway network to the Southern Andaman Islands of Koh Mook, Koh Lipe, Koh Kradan and Koh Sukorn. Direct connections are available from Trang Station to Koh Lanta and the other Southern Andaman islands via the nearby Hat Yao Pier.

• Train Times from Bangkok to Trang:

Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani     

Ubon Ratchathani is located in the north east of Thailand and is notable for the many temples in the area, some built during the era of the Khmer Empire .

• Train times from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani:

Bangkok to Udon Thani

Most foreign visitors to Udon Thani come for business or to visit friends or family of friends in the surrounding countryside. Sleeper train is a good way to travel to Udon Thani because you get a chance to sleep before you transfer to a car or bus for the trip to the ‘village’ and because the scenery for the middle section of the journey, between Ayutthaya and Nakhon Ratchasima, is beautiful mountains, lakes and fields .

• Train times from Bangkok to Udon Thani:

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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Latest Thailand Entry Requirements

After two years of dealing with Covid, international travel is returning to normal. To help welcome visitors back to the Land of Smiles, the Thai government lifted its final restrictions on July 1st, 2022.

From July 1st, the following changes have been implemented for all international travelers.

• Foreigners do not need to show proof of Covid Insurance.
• All mandatory hotel quarantine has been removed.
• Thailand Pass is no longer required for foreign travelers entering Thailand.
• Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving.
• Unvaccinated travelers (including children traveling with unvaccinated parents) will need to complete an RT-PCR or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) 72 hours before departing for Thailand. Proof does not need to be uploaded before traveling.
• Airlines and Thai Immigration will do random checks to confirm travelers meet Covid prevention requirements (vaccination or Covid test).

Below is a full list of what international travelers need before entering Thailand.

Required Documents for Travel to Thailand

Please have the following documents ready.

• Passport with at least six month validity
• Visa or visa exemption qualification
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance
• Boarding pass to be presented at Passport Control
• Hotel booking confirmation if asked by Immigration Officer
• Note: Vaccination record no longer required

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening by rules from the Thai immigration bureau and its Thai immigration officials.

Buy Your Insurance Now

Passport Validity / Visas

The first thing to check before planning to travel to Thailand is the validity of your passport. International travel requires that your passport is not expiring within six months of your travel date. If you have less than six months left on your passport, you cannot enter Thailand.

If you are planning to travel in the future, check your passport early so you know if you need to apply for a new one or not. It is best to check with your local embassy about how long it will take to receive your new passport. As people look to travel again, passport departments are swamped with new applications and this is causing a backlog in many countries.

There are several visas available to foreigners who are planning to visit Thailand. The visa you need will depend on where you are from, your purpose of travel, and how long you intend to stay.

Visa Exemption

A foreign visitor may enter Thailand under the Visa Exemption Program . Nationalities under the Visa Exemption Program may enter Thailand without a visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

Upon arriving in Thailand, most nationalities who are part of the Visa Exemption Program may stay for up to 30 days. Certain nationalities can arrive as part of this program, but for a shorter time. It is best to check the country exemption list and confirm how long you can visit Thailand without needing to apply for a Visa.

Tourists arriving under visa exemption are eligible to extend their stay for up to a further 30 days by visiting a local Thai Immigration Office. The cost to extend is approximately 2000 baht.

There is often confusion about Visa Exemption and “Visa on Arrival”. Visa on Arrival is a 15-day visa for travelers from India,  China, and 16 other countries. If you do not find your country on the Visa Exemption list, it is best to check the Visa on Arrival list.

There are some important things to note for Visa on Arrival:

• A passport must be valid for at least 30 days.
• The purpose of the visit is strictly tourist.
• A visitor must show an address in Thailand where they will be staying.
• A traveler must have a confirmed return flight.
• Must show proof of funds to the value of 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht for a family.
• A fee of 2000 baht is paid on arrival. The fee must be paid in cash and in Thai baht.

Tourist Visa and Special Tourist Visa (STV)

Foreigners may also apply for a Tourist Visa from a Thai embassy or consulate. There is the normal 60-day tourist visa that can be extended for additional 30 days, or the 90-day Special Tourist Visa (STV), which can be extended for 90 days twice at a local immigration office. There are certain requirements needed for the STV, but it allows a visitor to potentially stay in Thailand for 9 months. The Special Tourist Visa is currently scheduled to halt applications in September.

Contact your local Thai Embassy to verify what documents are needed to complete the process. When your visa is approved, the Embassy will place a sticker on your passport, so allow time for potential postage.

For those entering Thailand for a different purpose of stay, they need to obtain a Thai visa from their local Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to coming to Thailand.

Non-Immigrant Visa

Foreigners may apply for a wide range of long-term non-immigrant visas:

• Non-immigrant B Visa – for conducting business or employment
• Non-immigrant O visa – for visiting Thai spouse and family
• Non-immigrant ED visa – for students of recognized institutions in Thailand and their Parents or Legal guardian
• Non-immigrant O retirement visa – for those who wish to retire in Thailand
• Non-immigrant OA and OX visa – for those who wish to obtain a Thailand retirement visa for a long stay (it differs from type O visa)

The above visas can be organized at a local Thai Embassy or Consulate. The paperwork can be quite involved, but there are companies that can help.

Siam Legal International is a reputable company in Thailand that has offered visa assistance to foreign visitors for years. They are well versed in Thai immigration policies and processes. If you would like to streamline your long-term stay in Thailand, it is worth contacting them.

Thai Elite Visa

If you wish to make Thailand easily accessible for many years to come or are perhaps thinking of relocating permanently, it is worth having a look at the Thai Elite Visa.

The Thai Elite Visa allows foreign citizens to live in Thailand for 5, 10, or even 20 years. Thai Elite members do not need to worry about some of the eligibility criteria that are needed when applying for other long-term visas.

The Thai Elite visa is an exclusive visa that offers a host of benefits to holders. If you want to enjoy “Thai life” for the long term, you can read more about the Thai Elite Visa .

Proof of Vaccine or Testing

How a visitor enters Thailand will still depend on their vaccination status.

Vaccinated Travelers

Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving. A vaccinated traveler will need to have a copy of their vaccination certificate either printed or on a digital device and be able to present it if asked.

Thailand does not require visitors to have had a third booster shot. 2 shots (1 shot for Jansen) is considered fully vaccinated and accepted.

Unvaccinated Travelers

Unvaccinated travelers will need to complete an RT-PCR test or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) within 72 hours before boarding a flight in their departure country. They will need to have a copy of the test result and be able to present it if asked.

The RT-PCR and Pro-ATK test must be completed by a medical professional and a test report received. The home ATK (RAT) self-test is not acceptable for entering Thailand.

Vaccination and Testing for Children

The testing requirement for children under 18 depends on the vaccination status of their parents. Children traveling with vaccinated parents do not need to complete any RT-PCR or Pro-ATK test before entering Thailand. Children traveling with unvaccinated parents will need to complete the same test as their parents within 72 hours of departing their home country.

It is important to note that many airlines are still asking for proof of vaccination or a Covid test before boarding flights. If you cannot produce one of these documents, you might not board the flight.

Though foreigners no longer need to provide evidence of testing or vaccination prior to arriving in Thailand, they are still required. Thai authorities are conducting random checks of international passengers and if a vaccination certificate or test result cannot be shown, a visitor will not be allowed to enter Thailand.

Insurance has become a dirty word during Covid. Seasoned travelers have always understood the importance of having comprehensive Travel Insurance when traveling abroad. Travel insurance protected travelers from unexpected incidents like:

• Medical emergencies
• Personal injury & accidents
• Missed or delayed flights
• Damage to belongings
• Lost luggage

It was one of those things that people hoped they would never need but regretted not having when needed.

During the Pandemic, proof of insurance became mandatory when visiting countries like Thailand. Over time, people stopped referring to insurance as “Travel Insurance” and always referred to it as “Covid Insurance”. Because you had to have it, it was another hoop to jump through.

The good news is that you no longer need to provide proof of “Covid Insurance” to enter Thailand. But it is recommended because all the things listed above can still happen, and Covid has not disappeared completely.

Foreign visitors are not eligible for free medical care in Thailand if something should happen. Whether it be an accident or personal injury, if a visitor needs medical help, or has a canceled flight, they will need to cover any expenses themselves. Depending on the severity, this could be hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

Buying good Travel Insurance shouldn’t break the bank. Protecting yourself is cheaper than medical bills, new flights, and replacing lost luggage.

You can buy Travel Insurance from many companies. But if you are looking for coverage that is designed for Thailand, is trusted by Thai authorities and medical institutions, and offers a helpline with people who speak the local language and know the country’s procedures, it is worth checking out AXA Thailand .

Their policies are well priced, straightforward, offer many benefits to its customers, and can be approved in minutes.

Get your travel insurance here: https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

Hotel and Proof of Address Updates

Previously, a foreign visitor would complete an Arrival Card (TM6) before entering Thailand. This requirement has been temporarily removed as part of a new initiative by the Thai government.

A visitor no longer needs to provide proof of a hotel booking before departing their country, but will still need to provide an address when passing through Passport Control in Thailand. This address can be a hotel, home, or friend’s address.

This is especially true with people arriving on a pre-approved visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

From July 1, travelers are no longer required to book a SHA+ hotel and undergo an RT-PCR test on arrival. Most hotels have removed their SHA+ quarantine packages, but you will still see the SHA+ badge displayed on hotels.

It is recommended to browse hotels in Thailand on Agoda.com before arriving as it is easier to organize transport to your first night’s rest if pre-booked.

Thailand Pass

From July 1st, 2022, foreign travelers no longer need to apply for a Thailand Pass before entering Thailand. The system is still in place but is now a platform where visitors can notify the Thai authorities and medical facilities if they are diagnosed positive for Covid during their stay.

If you need to access the Thailand Pass system while in Thailand, please visit https://tp.consular.go.th/ and register by filling in your personal details on the Thailand Pass registration page.

International Arrivals

Travelers do not need to provide any proof of flights before leaving their home country.

There is a lot of discussion about whether a return flight needs to be booked when entering Thailand. Technically, all visitors should have a return flight booked. However, you will not always be asked to present evidence of a return flight.

If a visitor is entering Thailand with a pre-approved visa, or Visa on Arrival, they will often be asked to present details of their exit flight. Sometimes a visitor did not have a return flight and had to book a flight on the spot before being processed through Passport Control. To avoid this, it is best to book an exit flight that can be changed. You can always change your plans once in Thailand.

Domestic flights

There are no longer any restrictions on domestic flights and travel. When entering Thailand at an international terminal, a traveler is free to transit to a domestic flight right away. “Sealed” flights have been removed.

Domestic airlines will not always ask for proof, but it is best to have your vaccination certificate or Covid test result on hand in case you are asked to show it.

Siam Legal has received reports from potential clients that some hospitals are creating difficulties for them until full payment is made for their medical expenses. Also, foreigners have allegedly been threatened with lawsuits for not settling their medical bills before being discharged. Using out-of-country policies can be problematic. We recommend using insurance providers headquartered inside Thailand with a proper cover to avoid any undesirable outcomes.

Siam Legal International, a premier law firm in Thailand, recommends purchasing the proper insurance and so endorses AXA Insurance for your travel to Thailand insurance needs.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT POINTS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE PURCHASING TRAVEL INSURANCE

• Please review the details of any insurance before purchasing to understand if the policy has adequate cover. Cheap policies with inadequate levels of cover can lead to significant personal liability, and scenarios where policy holders incur hundreds of thousands of baht in out-of-pocket medical expenses have been reported. There are significant financial risks to being underinsured during your stay in Thailand.
• These policies do not cover medical costs from accidents (like motorcycle accidents) or common unexpected illnesses (common fever or food poisoning). Best to pay a few baht more for the peace of mind that comes from having proper coverage.
• AXA covers medical expenses (outpatient and inpatient) for accidents and illnesses, including COVID-19. Other insurance coverage might not.
• AXA also covers telemedicine and teleconsultation, which may be required during the quarantine period of any traveler.

Thai hospital staff are familiar with AXA cover, which should prevent any inconvenience during hospital admission or medical treatment from your hotel room. AXA Thailand also offers 24/7 local support during your stay in Thailand.

You can buy your Thailand Travel insurance today at:

https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

List of approved covid-19 vaccines.

As of December 1, the MoPH has approved the following vaccines:

• Pfizer–BioNTech or Comirnaty
• Janssen or Janssen/Ad26.COV2.S
• AstraZeneca or Covishield
• Sinopharm or COVILO
• CoronaVac or SinoVac
• Sputnik Lite

How to Obtain Travel Insurance

Though COVID-19 insurance is no longer mandatory for entry to Thailand, it is recommended to have comprehensive Travel insurance for the duration of your stay. Good travel insurance covers not only medical expenses relating to Covid but also accident cover, personal damage, loss of possessions, and missed or delayed flights.

It is best to purchase insurance before you travel. The easiest way to buy your policy is online through a reputable insurance provider. The insurance company will provide you with the all-important certificate of cover that you can present to authorities or medical professionals if you need to make a claim.

You may also be asked to present this certificate to the airline before they will allow you to onboard. It’s quick and easy to do online. You can choose your length of policy from 7, 15, 30, 60 days, and 180 days. Just make sure that the policy covers your entire period of stay in Thailand as foreigners are not eligible for free medical care in Thailand and insurance companies will not cover claims for existing conditions.

You may purchase AXA COVID-19 travel insurance within a few minutes. Check them below.

You can buy budget insurance here: https://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance

How to Open a Bank Account in Thailand

Siam Legal offers and provides aid for a smooth and hassle-free way to open up a Thai bank account.

• You will receive help in opening a savings/current bank account
• You will receive a Bankbook and a debit/ATM card
• Online Banking (Thai mobile number is required)

Requirements

• Guarantee letter (to be provided by Siam Legal)
• The applicant may book our service online.
• Our staff will prepare the application and necessary documents for the bank and arrange an appointment with the applicant.
• The applicant will collect the application form and documents from the Siam Legal Bangkok office and proceed to the specific bank branch. Opening the account at the bank takes 1 to 2 hours.

Service Fee

Our service fee is 150 USD for opening a Thai savings account in Bangkok.

City Travel Guide

• How to Travel to Bangkok
• How to Travel to Phuket
• How to Travel to Pattaya
• How to Travel to Chiang Mai
• How to Travel to Samui
• How to Travel to Hua Hin

Useful Links

• Best COVID-19 Insurance for Foreigners  
• Thailand Elite Visa – long term visa option for Thailand
• How to Travel to Thailand in 2022 – Your Ultimate Guide

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How to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train, Bus, and Plane

In a nutshell, you have three options for getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai : bus, train, or flight. Choosing the best mode of transport depends on your time-to-budget ratio and your tolerance for discomfort. There are roughly 400 miles to cover between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai only take a little over an hour, cutting down your travel time from a full day or night on a bus or train to a short plane ride. With dozens of daily flights between the two cities on low-cost airlines, it's usually the cheapest way to travel as well. However, the bus and train are comparable in price and even though the journey is much longer, you get to experience local train culture and the incredible landscapes in a way you don't get to on the plane.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

With up to 50 daily flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai on a variety of low-cost and standard airlines, flying is usually the cheapest method for getting there. One-way tickets start at around $15, even if you make your purchase just a few days before your travel date. Bangkok has two major airports, so make note of which airport your flight is departing from before you purchase. Most full-service airlines leave from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), while the majority of the low-cost airlines—AirAsia, Thai Lion, Nok Air—leave from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Both airports are located about 30 minutes outside of the city center by taxi, although traffic can significantly impact the travel time. Only Suvarnabhumi has a convenient public transit option.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Flying isn't only the cheapest way to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, it's also by far the fastest. The total time in the air is a little over an hour, compared to spending all night or all day on a train or bus. Even once you take into account all of the time it takes to travel to and from the airport, check in for your flight, go through security, and wait at your gate, flying is still the quickest way to get from one city to the other.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

Even though the train takes significantly longer than flying and is usually more expensive, train travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai continues to be a favorite mode of transport for most travelers. Riding the train gives you a chance to connect with locals as well as other travelers, and if you take the sleeper train it also saves you a night of having to pay for accommodations.

Second-class sleeper trains are the most popular option and provide a small bunk with a privacy curtain, and you'll be sharing the entire car with other passengers (choose a first-class sleeper if you prefer a private room). Trains are certainly the best option for enjoying the scenery of the Thai countryside, and even the overnight train will give passengers stunning views of the mountains around Chiang Mai at sunrise.

Trains arrive at the Chiang Mai Railway Station on Charoen Mueang, just east of the Old City. Numerous drivers will be waiting outside to take you from the station to your hotel.

Although trains can be booked through travel agencies, many agents may try to talk you into the overnight tourist bus instead so that someone from the company doesn't have to go purchase your ticket at the station. Optionally, you could take a tuk-tuk or quick motorbike taxi to buy the ticket commission-free at the station yourself. Try to book your train ticket a few days in advance to have the most options. If you wait until the day of, you may not get the car class you prefer, especially if you're traveling during popular holiday times.

Attendants sell food and drinks at an inflated price on the train, so you'll be far happier if you take plenty of snacks and water with you. Drinking alcohol on trains is illegal in Thailand, so wait until you arrive in Chiang Mai to enjoy a cold Singha beer.

Is There a Bus That Goes From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Although buses may cover the distance slightly faster and with fewer stops than the train, it's less comfortable and costs only slightly less. There are two types of buses: the tourist buses and government buses. The tourist buses are cheapest and depart from Khao San Road , the infamous Bangkok heart of the backpacker Banana Pancake Trail . Most travelers opt for the overnight bus to save a night of accommodation and a day of trip time. You can buy tickets from vendors selling tickets right on the street, but you should shop around because prices fluctuate with every person you talk to. Someone will fetch you from your hostel or hotel when it's time to leave and bring you to the bus, and the bus drops off passengers in Chiang Mai at a designated hotel (you may feel pressured to stay at the hotel, but you have no obligation to do so).

The government buses are slightly more expensive, but in exchange, you get a much more comfortable ride with provided snacks, water, and a movie. While the tourist buses are usually filled with foreign backpackers, the government buses are more commonly used by Thai locals. These buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai leave from the northeast bus terminal (Mo Chit), which you can get to by taking the BTS Skytrain. Buses arrive at the Arcade Bus Station in Chiang Mai, where transportation will be waiting to take you to your hotel.

If you decide to use the bus, regardless of which type, make sure to keep all of your valuables with you. It's not uncommon for luggage stored under the bus to be opened and robbed.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Chiang Mai?

The climate in Chiang Mai can be divided into three separate seasons.

• November to February : Right after the rainy season, these four months are usually considered the most ideal time to travel in Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. Temperatures are perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities, and the evenings cool down enough to require a light jacket. This is also one of the busiest times to visit Chiang Mai, and making last-minute reservations may be more difficult.
• March to May : The final months of the dry season are also the hottest, and daytime temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees F (38 C). Not only is it hot, but illegal burning of crops and fields across northern Thailand make the air dangerously smokey. If you suffer from asthma or other respiratory problems, the air quality during these months is important to consider.
• June to October : Summer and autumn are the rainy seasons in Chiang Mai, and monsoons are a part of daily life. Temperatures drop from the unbearably hot days of March through May, but it's much more humid. If you don't mind the rain and you're looking for a quieter vacation, this is usually the least busy time to visit Chiang Mai.

Also, if you're planning to travel during any holiday periods , such as Thai New Year in April or Loi Krathong in November, trains can book up weeks in advance. Check the calendar and plan ahead.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

There is no public transportation from Chiang Mai Airport into the city center, but taxis and tuk-tuks are plentiful and the ride is short. You can get from the airport to the Old City in about 10 minutes, and the price should be about 160 Thai baht ($5). Many hotels also offer transportation from the airport for guests, so check with your accommodations before taking off.

What Is There to Do in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is the second most popular city to visit in Thailand after Bangkok, home to over 300 temples and used as a jumping-off point to explore the rest of Northern Thailand. Nestled in rolling hills, hiking and other nature excursions are some of the most popular activities for visitors to Chiang Mai, as are visiting the local (ethically run) elephant sanctuaries. The Old City is the historic center, and every evening it fills up with the huge Night Bazaar selling everything from local handmade goods to mouthwatering Thai dishes.

Tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai start at $15 one way.

The train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 13 hours.

Flying is both the cheapest and quickest way to travel between the two cities. By plane, you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in one hour and 15 minutes for as little as $15.

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How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Samui?

Koh Samui is located just off the Thai mainland in the Gulf of Thailand. The distance from Bangkok to Koh Samui is about 470 miles (755 km). The most convenient way to get to the island is by flight. You can also travel by train or bus to Surat Thani and from there by ferry to Koh Samui.

Surat Thani is a city on the mainland that is about 80 km (50 miles) southwest of Koh Samui. The Surat Thani – Koh Samui ferry route connects Thailand's mainland with Koh Samui Island.

Here are the four usual ways to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui island:

We've rounded up detailed information about each transportation option below to help you choose the best way for you.

• Direct flight to Koh Samui
• Flight to Surat Thani and ferry to Koh Samui
• Train to Surat Thani and ferry to Koh Samui
• Bus to Surat Thani and ferry to Koh Samui

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1. Bangkok to Koh Samui by Plane — The Easiest and Quickest Way

Flying directly from Bangkok to Koh Samui is by far the easiest way of getting to the island. While it is the most expensive option, you could try to book early and get promotional tickets.

The direct flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui are operated by Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways and usually leave from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.

• Cost [Jan. 2022]: currently, the one-way airfare costs from $125 to $195
• Flight time: around 1 hour

Check the sample itineraries for Thailand tours:  Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days .

2. Bangkok to Koh Samui by Plane and Ferry — A Less Expensive Way

For a cheaper trip, you can fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then take a 1½-hour ferry ride across to Koh Samui. Please note that there are no airlines offering a flight between Surat Thani and Koh Samui.

Low-cost airlines such as Thai Lion Air, AirAsia, and Nok Air offer multiple flights daily to Surat Thani from Bangkok's Don Muang Airport (DMK).

You save 77+ USD, but 3+ more hours and two more modes of transport are needed. The bus ride from the Surat Thani airport to the pier and the ferry across to Koh Samui require at least 3 hours.

There are many different ferries to choose from. All the different operators offer combined bus and ferry tickets, so you don't have to worry about making your way to a ferry terminal. You can buy the combo tickets from inside the airport terminal. Walk out the doors and the buses are waiting to take you to the pier.

• Cost [Jan. 2022]: the airfare costs from $40, ferry costs about $8-18 (prices may vary by season)
• Time needed: around 1 hour on a plane, 1½ hours on a bus and transferring, and 1½ hours on a ferry

3. Bangkok to Koh Samui by Train and Ferry — A Cheap and Pleasant Way

If you're not concerned about getting to the islands quickly, travel by the combination of an overnight train and a ferry is an economical and interesting option. It is not as quick as the flight, but it is much cheaper and can be a pleasant experience.

A train from Bangkok takes you to Surat Thani (11–15 hours depending on the train), and from there you take a bus to either the Don Sak or the Bangrak Seatran Pier (1–2 hours) and then a ferry to Koh Samui (1½ hours).

There are 10 direct trains per day from Bangkok to Surat Thani, leaving between 7 am and 10 pm. A daytime train is available, but an air-conditioned sleeper train is recommended as you can save the cost of a hotel for the night and have a more comfortable trip.

The trains we recommended are those leaving around 7 pm and arriving around 8 am on the next day, when is convenient to find direct connections to the island of Koh Samui. Try to book an air-conditioned 1st or 2nd class sleeper carriage for a better journey. On first-class carriages, you'll get your own private two-person cabin with your own washbasin. The second class offers open carriages with seats that convert into beds at night. Thai dishes and drinks are available on the trains.

All trains depart from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Train Station (also known simply as Bangkok Railway Station) and arrive at Surat Thani Railway Station. You can buy train tickets at the railway station in Bangkok. Alternatively, you can buy combination train/bus/ferry tickets from travel agents in Bangkok for a better price and a smoother trip.

• Cost [Jan. 2022]: $25–50 for a 1st/2nd-class sleeper and about $8–18 for a ferry (prices vary by season)
• Time needed: around 11–15 hours for the train and 3 hours for the bus and ferry

4. Bangkok to Koh Samui by Bus and Ferry — the Cheapest Way

If comfort is not a concern, you could consider taking a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then taking a ferry or catamaran to Koh Samui. This is the cheapest option. The bus ride may take less time than the train (as little as 10 hours), but it can be more troublesome and tiring.

One advantage is that you can depart Bangkok almost immediately: buy a ticket, hop on a bus, and go. For a direct bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani, you'll need to go to Sai Tai Mai, also known as the Southern Bus Terminal. We advise choosing a VIP air-conditioned bus, which is modern and equipped with toilets.

The bus will take you directly to Don Sak Ferry Terminal in Surat Thani in 10–12 hours, and from there a 1½-hour boat ride will take you across the gulf to Koh Samui.

• Cost [Jan. 2022]: bus tickets are about $17–27, and ferry tickets are about $8–18 (varying by season)
• Time needed: 10–12 hours for the bus, 1½ hours for the ferry

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Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit in Thailand [In-Depth Review]

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Paying Cash vs. Using Points

Getting there, elite benefits, fitness center, living room, gallery lobby, gallery kitchen, final thoughts.

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Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, captivates travelers with its busy street markets, vibrant nightlife, and historic temples. From historic palaces to incredible street food, Bangkok’s dynamic energy and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination for those looking for a real adventure.

The city keeps bringing me back — my most recent trip was my fifth time visiting the city in the last 3 years. On this trip, I had just 1 night in Bangkok, so I wanted to take it easy and unwind before my flight to Kuala Lumpur the following day.

After some deliberation, I decided to book a hotel that would allow me to spend my last day in Thailand relaxing. I chose the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit as I stayed at the property several times last year and had a great experience each time.

However, this was my first time staying at the property as a World of Hyatt Globalist member, so I was hoping for a nice suite and a comfortable stay.

Read on for my full review of the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit and why you should consider this property if you travel to Bangkok.

Booking the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit

Since I had decided on the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit for my 1-night stay, I headed to Hyatt’s website to see what cash rates for the property were, a necessary first step before deciding whether to pay with cash or to redeem World of Hyatt points .

Cash rates were around ฿3,575, or about $98, including taxes and fees.

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is a Category 1 Hyatt property, meaning that award nights start at 3,500 points per night (off-peak) and can be as high as   6,500 points per night (peak). Since it was the standard season, the hotel could be booked for 5,000 points per night.

According to our valuations,  World of Hyatt points are worth 1.5 cents per point , making 5,000 points worth $75. Using World of Hyatt points for this 1-night stay would have been a great use of points; however, I decided against doing so. I usually save my World of Hyatt points for hotels that are much more expensive to get much more value out of my points.

Learn the best ways to earn tons of World of Hyatt points in our full guide.

I booked a (1) Standard King (No Sofa Bed) room , the cheapest one available. Having stayed at the property several times last year and being upgraded without asking, I was confident I would get upgraded to a nicer room this time around for being a  World of Hyatt Globalist member.

The total for my stay was just about $98, including taxes and fees.

As with all my Hyatt stays, I used  The World of Hyatt Credit Card for payment, as it earns  up to 9x points total for Hyatt stays: 4x Bonus Points at Hyatt hotels and 5x Base Points as a World of Hyatt member .

Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit Location

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is located on Soi 24 in the nightlife and shopping district of Sukhumvit. The property is a 4-minute walk to the Phrom Phong BTS SkyTrain station , which can connect you to the rest of Bangkok.

Nearby attractions include 3 world-class shopping malls: Emporium , EmQuartier , and EmSphere . The famous Bhiraj Tower is a 10-minute walk from the property.

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is a 45-minute drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) .

If you are arriving from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok’s smaller airport, the journey also takes approximately 45 minutes by car.

You can also reach the property using public transportation. As long as you can connect to the BTS Skytrain, getting to the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is easy.

I arrived at the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit around 7:30 a.m., well before the hotel’s official check-in time of 3 p.m. I proceeded straight to the hotel entrance.

I entered the hotel at ground level and took the elevator up 1 level to the lobby and check-in counters.

Upon exiting the elevator, I was greeted by intriguing artwork featuring a prominently displayed rooster across the hall — odd choice for an art piece, in my opinion.

The check-in desks were conveniently located directly to the left of the art piece.

I was warmly greeted by a courteous front desk agent who requested my identification to locate my reservation. The agent expressed gratitude for my Hyatt Globalist status and welcomed me back to the property.

As I arrived at the property before 7:30 a.m., my room was not ready for check-in. However, the front desk agent informed me that my room would be available around 10 a.m., considerably earlier than the official check-in time of 3 p.m.

The agent told me I could wait in the lobby until the room was ready. However, I did a quick tour of the lobby before heading out to breakfast.

After returning to the hotel after breakfast, I went to the check-in desk to inquire if my room was ready. The front agent informed me that it was and that my bag had already been sent up.

She also informed me that the hotel had upgraded me to a King Suite with a sofa bed and that she noted a 4 p.m. checkout, a benefit of Hyatt Globalist status.

She then handed me the room keys and 2 drink vouchers for being a Hyatt elite member. These vouchers were good for drinks at AIRE BAR or The Market.

As a World of Hyatt Globalist , I was entitled to several enhanced benefits, including:

• Free daily breakfast
• 4 p.m. late checkout upon request
• Upgrade to best room, up to standard suites
• Club lounge access (when available)

After completing the check-in process without receiving any room keys, I explored the lobby to see what amenities it offered.

A small seating area was directly across from the check-in area. It consisted of a 3-person sofa, a couple of armchairs, and a central coffee table with an elegant rug.

Another seating section was to the left of the initial seating area, divided by a wall. This area boasted several armchairs, 2 wooden side tables, and a round rug.

The right wall had a massive bookshelf adorned with various Thai artifacts, antiques, and books. The bookshelf was visually appealing and added to the ambiance of the lobby.

The lobby restaurant, Gallery Lobby, was to the left of the second seating section. I’ll expand more on this in the Food and Beverage section.

A small bar was around the corner from the check-in desk. The back wall behind the bar featured an attractive display of various liquors, which added to the space’s ambiance.

The hotel provided complimentary infused water in glass dispensers for guests to enjoy. I found this necessary as the temperature was above 95 degrees at 7 a.m.

The Market, a common feature in Hyatt Place hotels, was to the right of the check-in desk.

The hotel had 2 sets of elevators: a “Low Zone” lift serving floors 1 to 19 and a “High Zone” lift for higher guest floors and access to the AIRE BAR.

Overall, the hotel lobby was relatively small and intimate. However, the thoughtful furniture and design elements truly elevated the different seating sections. Despite its smaller size, the lobby never felt overly crowded.

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit boasted several amenities, including a fitness room and swimming pool. Here’s a look at what you can expect.

The property has an incredible rooftop pool on the 19th floor. It was open daily between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

A limited number of pool chairs were available. During peak times, the pool area was crowded, with insufficient seating for all guests.

A small shelving unit with clean pool towels was near the pool entrance.

The property has a 24-hour fitness center, also on the 19th floor. Although the fitness center was rather basic, it satisfied all my needs.

Guests could use 1 of 2 treadmills available.

A section was dedicated to strength training, with a massive chest press and chest fly machine.

Additionally, a bench and a rack containing several dumbbells of varying weights were available.

The hotel also had 2 separate yoga rooms available. The serene spaces had yoga mats, balls, and other equipment.

The second yoga room across the hall was slightly larger than the first.

The hotel offered high-speed Wi-Fi to all guests. Wi-Fi speeds were adequate for internet browsing and some light media streaming.

Connecting to the Wi-Fi was simple. All I had to do was connect to the network and enter my last name and room number when prompted.

Free on-site parking is available to all in-house guests.

King Suite Room

I took the “High Zone” elevators to the 22nd floor and turned left to the end of the hall, where my suite was.

Despite having stayed at this hotel previously, it was my first time as a Hyatt Globalist and my first time being upgraded to a suite.

Upon entering the King Suite, I was pleasantly surprised by its ample space. The first thing I noticed was the massive sofabed and ottoman. Both were surprisingly comfortable.

The left side of the sofa had a small end table with a desk lamp, and the opposite side had a floor lamp.

There was also a sofa tray table for those wanting to have a meal while relaxing on the sofa. Although I only used it when eating a small snack, I found it to be very practical and convenient.

Next to the sofa area was a small workstation with seating for 2 people. Although the seats had an intriguing design, they were uncomfortable, so I opted not to use them much during my stay.

A wall-mounted TV with a sizable cabinet beneath it was to the right of the workstation and directly across from the sofa.

The hotel provided 6 complimentary water bottles placed on top of the cabinet.

The cabinet’s top shelf had a kettle, packets of instant coffee and tea (including English breakfast tea and pure green tea), and glassware.

All the other shelves in the cabinet were empty. However, the room’s minifridge was on the far left of the cabinet.

Directly behind the sofa and workstation, the room’s windows stretched the room’s length. The windows offered a stunning panorama of tall skyscrapers and nearby hotels.

The mix of lower buildings and towering skyscrapers made for an enjoyable sight. Bangkok has developed considerably since I first visited in 2016.

Upon entering the bedroom, I saw a bench upholstered in plush material. Next to the bench was a small end table.

Against the back wall was a storage unit with a granite countertop. I stored my bag here during my stay.

I then saw the king bed, which looked incredibly comfortable (and it was). The bed had 4 pillows of varying firmness, and I appreciated the quality of the bedding

A small nightstand was on both sides of the bed. The left nightstand had the room’s phone, a notepad with a pen, and the TV remote. Above it were 2 AC power outlets, light controls, and a small wall-mounted lamp.

The right nightstand was empty. Above it was a single AC power outlet, a USB port, 2 light switches, and a lamp.

Directly across from the bed was the bedroom’s TV.

To the left of the TV was a small bedroom closet. Here, you could find 2 robes, an iron and ironing board, and a safe.

I noticed the sizeable vanity area with a deep sink as I entered the bathroom.

The bathroom vanity was remarkably spacious — it was definitely larger than the one I have in my apartment.

The countertop featured a box filled with complimentary toiletries, including 2 dental kits, a comb, a shaving kit, KENETMD-branded hydrating body lotion, a shower cap, and a vanity kit.

Additional towels were neatly stored below the sink, along with 2 extra rolls of toilet paper and a scale.

To the left of the bathroom vanity was the toilet equipped with a bidet hose.

The walk-in shower, featuring a handheld showerhead, was to the left of the toilet.

The shower featured wall-mounted reusable containers of KENETMD-branded toiletries, including pro-vitamin shampoo, nourishing conditioner, and invigorating shower gel.

To the far right of the bathroom was a soaking tub. Although I didn’t use this tub, it did look inviting.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the suite. I enjoyed the spacious layout, which divided the massive room into separate sections.

The sofa provided a comfortable spot for relaxation; I even took a nap on it. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, and I appreciated the quality of the bedding provided.

However, the most impressive part of the suite was undoubtedly its breathtaking views of Bangkok.

I’m grateful to Hyatt and the hotel staff at this property for consistently providing excellent service and upgrades, making my stays even more enjoyable as a Globalist member.

Food and Beverage

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit featured several on-site dining options — here’s a look at what’s available.

The hotel’s primary restaurant, Gallery Lobby, offers authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant was open between 11 a.m. and 12 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday and between 11 a.m. and 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The diverse menu featured a wide selection of Thai dishes , including curries, soups, noodles, and rice dishes, along with options for plant-based dishes.

The lobby boasted several small dining tables, which made for an intimate culinary experience.

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit features a rooftop bar, AIRE BAR , on the 28th floor.

The bar had several seating options, both indoors and outdoors. My favorite section was this cozy corner, which featured sofas and coffee tables. I loved the aesthetic of this area — it was Instagram-worthy.

The bar had several other seating areas, including 1 nestled in the corner with patio furniture.

Bar-style seating along the walls of the building offered incredible views of Bangkok.

AIRE BAR provided an extensive selection of food options, conveniently marked with symbols indicating vegetarian, spicy, and pork-containing dishes.

I opted for the AIRE BAR Classic Chicken Burger , which is garnished with a fried egg, cheese, spicy homemade BBQ sauce, tomato, onion, and lettuce and served with steak fries.

AIRE BAR also featured an extensive beverage selection. I used 1 of my free drink vouchers and ordered a Red Surprise mocktail.

After approximately 20 minutes, a hotel staff member brought my chicken sandwich and steak fries. The meal paired well with my Red Surprise mocktail.

From the bar, you get 180-degree views of Bangkok. I was fortunate to capture this incredible sunset right after my early dinner.

Gallery Kitchen , where guests have breakfast, is located on the hotel’s third floor. Breakfast is served weekdays from 6 and 10:30 a.m. and weekends between 6 and 11 a.m.

You will immediately see the breakfast buffet as you get off the elevator on the third floor.

The breakfast seating area is located directly to the left. It features around 25 dining tables with seating for approximately 75 people.

After placing my bag at one of the tables, I checked out what the breakfast buffet had to offer.

The initial section of the buffet showcased an array of fresh sushi rolls, including a variety of California rolls and maki rolls. Accompanying condiments such as pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi were also available.

A section for cured meats and cheeses included favorites such as brie cheese.

Additionally, a refrigerated section offered yogurts, oatmeal, fruits, salads, and fresh juices. Yogurt variants comprised natural and coconut flavors.

A small selection of fruit assortments included papaya, dragon fruit, and canteloupe. Numerous salad varieties were also available.

Juice varieties included orange, guava, and cold-pressed fresh watermelon juice. Milk options included almond milk, soy milk, and low-fat milk.

Following that, a section was dedicated to hot food options, featuring slices of ham, chicken sausages, baked potatoes with rosemary, and strips of bacon.

Guests could also choose from yellow curry with chicken, Pad Thai tofu, and steamed jasmine rice in the hot food section.

Finally, a dedicated bakery section offered a variety of pastries, including mixed fruit danish, cinnamon danish, chocolate croissants, and butter croissants. The wide array of pastries was definitely the breakfast highlight for me.

Additionally, the selection of bread included whole wheat toast, white toast, and sourdough loaf.

After perusing the extensive breakfast buffet options, I gathered some plates and made my way to my seat.

I was thoroughly impressed with the hotel’s breakfast selection. The wide variety of options catered to every palate, and the pastries were particularly exceptional.

Additionally, the attentive staff constantly replenished the food, maintaining freshness throughout the breakfast service. Overall, it was one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve had (and I stay in a lot of hotels).

Located in the hotel lobby near the check-in desk, The Market offers a variety of freshly prepared grab-and-go food items.

The Market had an outstanding selection of nonalcoholic beverages, featuring bottled juices, sparkling and still water, and various soft drinks.

A dedicated refrigerator was stocked exclusively with a selection of local and international beers.

A freezer was filled with ice cream in various flavors, including vanilla bean, cookies and cream, mint chocolate chip, Kaffee almond, honey macadamia, passionfruit sorbet, and strawberry.

There was also a small selection of Coconut Crispy Rolls and instant noodles, offering options like minced pork soup and tom yum kung (spicy shrimp soup).

The service at the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit was exceptional . From the attentive front desk staff to the welcoming atmosphere, every aspect of my experience at the hotel was positive.

The staff members were friendly, accommodating, and always eager to assist, reflecting their dedication to ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.

The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is an excellent Hyatt property worth considering for those visiting Bangkok. Despite multiple stays, I always leave wanting more time at this Category 1 Hyatt gem.

The rooms at the hotel feature modern design elements and spacious layouts, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The rooftop bar provides stunning city views, and the food and beverage prices were reasonable.

The breakfast at the Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit offers a phenomenal selection of food options and fantastic service.

Best of all, the hotel is a Category 1 Hyatt property, meaning it can be booked for relatively few World of Hyatt points.

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The Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is a Category 1 World of Hyatt property.

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• Where to Eat 2024

How (and Why) to Forage for Ant Eggs in a Northeastern Thai Forest

Though Isan cuisine has proven popular around the world, chefs in the northeastern Thai region are still fighting for recognition domestically, using foraged ingredients and fine dining techniques to rewrite their culinary reputation

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Share All sharing options for: How (and Why) to Forage for Ant Eggs in a Northeastern Thai Forest

Gather eggs between march and may., prepare for thorny underbrush and an armada of hungry mosquitos., ants are creatures of habit. if a tree has yielded eggs before, it will do so again., all it takes are a series of sharp, well-directed shakes of a branch to deposit handfuls of pearl barley-like white “caviar” into a net., hurry. ants will chase you when you take their eggs. if they catch you, they bite — hard..

These rules are second nature to chef Weerawat “Num” Triyasenawat and second-generation forager Chimphan “Auntie Noi” Sripha, who regularly collect ingredients from the forests of Thailand’s northeastern Isan region. After dusting their haul with potato starch, which repels swarming ants, they calmly count their bounty and taste a couple of plump eggs, which burst in the mouth with the flavor of fresh milk.

Locals typically use ant eggs for spicy salads or soup. Sripha combines them with sweet tree leaves and queen ants (which have a mildly hallucinogenic effect) in a delicately spiced stew that’s typical for the region. A longtime proponent of foraging, just like his culinary idol, French chef Michel Bras, Num uses the eggs at Samuay & Sons , his restaurant in Udon Thani, the third largest city in Isan .

“We have been eating insects for centuries,” Num says. “Foraging is [part of our shared] wisdom, from [when we were in] survival mode.”

A full morning’s labor yields enough eggs for one dinner service — not a huge return on investment. But Num says the exercise isn’t about gathering enough eggs to fill out a menu. It’s about reframing the culinary narrative around Isan. Though the region is a huge agricultural powerhouse, it’s relatively poor and chronically underrated by city folk from Bangkok and Central Thailand, akin to the divide between coastal capitals and flyover states in the U.S.

“Most people think Isan food is humble, affordable, cheap,” he says. “I want to take what people know about Isan food and then take them somewhere else.”

Num is one of a growing number of chefs rewriting the culinary map of Thailand. Utilizing seasonal, traditional ingredients — mountain crabs, boba pearl-like mushrooms, sour forest mangoes, mole crickets — his sophisticated-yet-unpretentious dishes are upending stubborn perceptions.

As for the ant eggs, Num quickly salt-cures them, smokes them with sugarcane, and combines them with caviar from Hua Hin in Southern Thailand in an inventive take on the salad called sup nor mai. The implication is clear: If eggs from fish can be a delicacy that fetches thousands of dollars, why not eggs from Isan’s ants?

Num’s ant eggs thunder with umami, but the dish is a far cry from Isan’s reputation for fiery, tart, and salty food. While a specific, crowd-pleasing version of the region’s cuisine has become hugely popular at street food stalls in Thailand and restaurants across the U.S. — often boiled down to the “holy trinity” of grilled chicken, som tum (green papaya salad), and sticky rice — food in Udon Thani usually bears more similarities with the murky, umami-filled cuisine of Northern Thailand. Dishes often have a slightly bitter undertow, restrained acidity, absolutely no sugar, muted spice, and strong notes of pla rah, a fish sauce made by fermenting freshwater fish with salt for up to a year.

Nuance tends to get lost when people discuss Isan, which is both Thailand’s most populous region and its poorest, contributing less than 10 percent of national gross domestic product, mostly from agriculture. Centuries of cultural difference and economic inequality have created deep divides between the Northeast and the seat of power in Bangkok. Though politicians regularly woo voters in Isan in order to win seats in parliament, they rarely deliver on promises to help the region; populist administrations supported by Northeasterners never last long in the capital, either, leading to an adage: Isan votes governments into power and Bangkok kicks them out.

Without economic or political leverage, Isan is stuck in a kind of catch-22: too poor to build enough infrastructure to attract tourists, yet not enough tourism money to rise out of poverty.

The popularity of Isan cuisine initially seems like a silver bullet to solve some of the region’s woes, but the spread of food around the country and the world hasn’t historically translated into real opportunities back home. Persistent stigmas among Central Thai residents about their Northeastern neighbors continue to shape interpretations of Isan food.

“How could this region, with such culture, hard-working people, vast and diverse landscapes, and so many phenomenal Thai dishes be so overlooked?” asks Aarya Surindhara, a hotelier and restaurateur in the process of turning her childhood home in northern Isan into a hotel, Domaine du Mekong.

Surindhara finds the roots of the impasse deep in Isan’s history. The region was part of the Lao Lan Xang kingdom, the Land of a Million Elephants, from the 14th to 18th centuries, before it was conquered by France in 1893 and ceded to what was then Siam a few years later. Some of Isan’s most famous dishes are adaptations from Laos, including som tum, larb, sticky rice, and jaew (spicy sauce that accompanies grilled meat). Foods influenced by Laos are especially prominent among Isan’s farm workers because they’re easy to assemble, transportable, and eaten by hand with local leaves and herbs. Mok pla, for instance, combines freshwater fish with a heady paste of dill, chiles, makrut lime leaves, garlic, and onions, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

But in Bangkok, these Laotion influences aren’t seen as anything to be proud of. Capital residents regularly use the term “Lao” as a pejorative, meaning “country bumpkin” or someone unsophisticated and credulous. And that’s not the only aspect of Isan cuisine that Bangkokians have rejected.

After World War II, workers from the Northeast migrated en masse to the capital, where they mostly took up blue-collar jobs as taxi drivers, maids, security guards, and construction workers. Homesick for their own cuisine, some migrants started selling som tum, chargrilled meats, and larb from food stalls by the city’s Victory Monument. But locals — many of them averse to funky pla rah — quickly reinterpreted these dishes, giving birth to items like “som tum Thai,” a sour-salty-sweet-spicy melange that adds dried shrimp and peanuts (typical Central Thai flourishes) to the standard green papaya.

“Isan food in Bangkok is so different,” Num says, creating a sort of “parallel cuisine” in which almost every flavor is louder than what you get back home. “It’s spicier. And when [chefs] do use pla rah, it’s so much more pronounced.” He notes that Bangkok chefs usually use too much sugar as well, echoing a common complaint among chefs about the current state of Thai food in general. Num’s hypothesis for the reason behind Bangkok’s sweet tooth? “Sweetness equals wealth.”

In the last few decades, immigrants from Myanmar have gradually taken over a lot of those blue-collar jobs. But economic opportunities in Isan have remained limited, and many ambitious young folks still expect to migrate to the capital. This has been especially true for chefs, who have developed a playbook for culinary stardom: After rising from humble beginnings in a small town, they develop an innovative take on a local cuisine, earn a Michelin Bib Gourmand or other recognition, conquer Bangkok with a chain of restaurants, expand abroad, and maybe land a Netflix special. This narrative leaves out a critical final step: widely affecting perceptions of regional Thai cuisine.

Rejecting that narrative and eschewing Bangkok for Udon Thani has turned chef Num into a folk hero of sorts. Though he has his side projects — a Thai restaurant inspired by the 1970s and ’80s opening in Bangkok, a pop-up in Khao Yai to help reforest the surrounding mountains — he continues to cook alongside his brother, chef Voravat “Joe,’’ at Samuay & Sons, a restaurant named for his mother and inspired by his father, an insurance salesman who served as the family cook.

His ringtone, Nino Rota’s “Speak Softly, Love” (the theme to The Godfather ), hints at the role he plays in the local food world. He constantly takes calls to connect chefs with producers, advise culinary students, or weigh in on ingredient questions.

“I don’t do this for myself,” Num says in between calls. “I just want to help people get good money.”

In Khon Kaen, a neighboring city, chefs Paisarn Cheewinsiriwat and Kanyarat Thanomsang have found their own riches at Kaen , a reference to the city and to Paisarn’s parents’ timber business (“kaen” means “wood”). The dining room, which is predictably filled with wood, is also decorated by the best in local textiles, and local music plays from the speakers.

“We have a saying: ‘Gindan kue sinsap,’ or ‘poverty can yield treasure,’” Paisarn says. “The herbs that grow here have such strong flavors because they have to be strong enough to survive. There are so many good things in this land.”

While working as a chef at a luxury wellness resort, Paisarn dreamt of one day cooking with Iranian caviar, Canadian lobster, and all of the world’s most expensive ingredients. Now that he finally has his own restaurant, his perspective on luxury has shifted. “The way of being elegant has changed,” he says.

Kaen’s seasonal menu allows Khon Kaen’s ingredients to shine with simple European-inflected techniques. Local wagyu steaks are grilled and served with charred local sugar peas and mushrooms. A rustic vegetable stew seasoned with pla rah is dressed up as minestrone. Bottles of the local moonshine — once the purview of celebrating villagers — are given the digestif treatment, wheeled out on a trolley as Isan eau-de-vie.

In Ubon Ratchathani in southeastern Isan, Sirorat Thowtho, who goes by Pa Chef (Auntie Chef), also embraces local inspiration, but she doesn’t feel the need to attract outside customers. She named her restaurant Mok , a reference to the farmer’s dish mok, but also to mok’s other meaning in Thai: “hidden.”

“If anyone doesn’t intend to come looking for us, they won’t be able to find it,” she says. “It’s a hidden gem.”

Those lucky enough to find the restaurant are treated to a multicourse Isan omakase, including local fish made into sausage and served in its broth with dollops of chile paste and osetra caviar, local snails cooked in white wine a la escargot, and dancing shrimp (served grilled instead of alive, as they’re often eaten locally) with shrimp biscuits and pineapple salsa.

“In the eyes of outsiders, this land is full of drought,” Thowtho says. “But Isan is the source of the best meat, vegetables, and jasmine rice in the world.”

Chefs don’t have to serve local cuisine in order to serve their communities. Tawara “Earl” Ananthikulchai felt lost after graduating from college, so he taught himself how to bake.

“After I decided to stay at home, I had only one idea: bring what I learned about French pastry to my hometown,” he says. Ananthikulchai now runs the popular patisserie Le Bonheur out of his childhood home. He prides himself on introducing treats like Black Forest cake, poached pears in red wine, and perfect scones to Udon Thani’s burgeoning scene.

These chefs no longer need a big glitzy place in Bangkok to prove their chops and attract followers. Though they have seemingly opposite approaches to attracting the attention of diners outside Udon Thani, Samuay & Sons and Mok both earned Bib Gourmand recognition in Michelin’s inaugural Isan guide in 2023.

“It used to be very difficult to be a talented chef stuck in an Alpine lodge somewhere,” says Gavin Vongkusolkit, owner of the Ad Lib hotel in Khon Kaen. He cites social media as a big shift in how fans find and honor great cooking. “Now with Michelin and Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, people travel for food. They’re looking for something different.”

Foreign audiences, like those that control awards-granting organizations and support Isan restaurants abroad, have been especially receptive to the region’s transformation. But global affirmation only gets a chef so far.

“I want to see Samuay & Sons as a good place to eat for everyone, for local people and as a destination,” Num says.

During many dinner services, Samuay & Sons caters to locals, who arrive for a quick bite from the a la carte menu, which is cheaper and quicker than the tasting menu. They order simple dishes like massaman curry and the chef’s own childhood favorite, kai pullo, eggs and pork braised in Chinese five-spice powder. Ant eggs don’t make an appearance.

“The a la carte menu is a straightforward focus on flavor. The [tasting menu] courses are meant to be innovative,” he says. “I hope Michelin understands the concept.” Num doesn’t see the two menus as mutually exclusive. He believes he can push boundaries without alienating his local customers. “The concept of authenticity is Western,” he says.

This big-tent conception has allowed the region’s restaurants to gain traction with many types of customers, as chefs cook with local ingredients at various price points. It also seems like Num’s broader message about Isan’s value is getting through to diners.

“Seven years ago, people had no idea what I was trying to do,” Num says. “But now we can say we are pioneers.”

Chawadee Nualkhair is a Bangkok-based food writer.

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A first-timer's guide to exploring Bangkok: 5 handy tips

Updated : Apr 19, 2024, 21:20 IST

Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent place for culture vultures and party lovers, alike. If you are planning a your first Bangkok trip, here we are to help you make the most of your visit with five handy tips for first-timers exploring the city:

Master the art of Tuk-Tuk negotiation

Tuk-tuks, the iconic three-wheeled motorised rickshaws, are a quintessential mode of transportation in Bangkok. While they offer a convenient and thrilling way to navigate the city's bustling streets, it's essential to negotiate the fare before hopping aboard. Tuk-tuk drivers often quote inflated prices to unsuspecting tourists, so don't hesitate to haggle and settle on a reasonable fare before embarking on your journey.

Navigate the city's waterways

Bangkok's intricate network of canals, or khlongs, provides a unique perspective of the city's bustling neighborhoods and vibrant culture. Hop aboard a long-tail boat or take a leisurely ride on the public ferries to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions along the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Don't miss the chance to visit the bustling floating markets, where vendors sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and delectable street food from their boats.

Understand the street food culture

One of the best ways to experience the authentic flavors of Bangkok is through its street food. From savory pad Thai and aromatic tom yum soup to sweet mango sticky rice and crispy fried bananas, Bangkok's street vendors offer a plethora of tantalizing dishes at budget-friendly prices. Be adventurous and sample local delicacies from the numerous food stalls lining the streets, but remember to choose vendors with high turnover and freshly prepared food to avoid stomach issues.

Experience the nightlife

Bangkok comes alive after dark, offering a diverse array of nightlife experiences to suit every taste. From rooftop bars with panoramic city views and lively night markets buzzing with activity to vibrant street-side eateries and pulsating nightclubs, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the bustling nightlife districts of Sukhumvit, Silom, and Khao San Road, and immerse yourself in Bangkok's electrifying after-hours scene.

Visit the Grand Palace and temples

No visit to Bangkok is complete without exploring its magnificent temples and royal palaces. The Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, is a must-see attraction showcasing exquisite Thai architecture and intricate detailing. Nearby, Wat Pho houses the colossal Reclining Buddha, while Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. Remember to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting these sacred sites.

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Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent ...

From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Oct 21, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Just 80 kilometers north and an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, the royal city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes for a perfect day trip. The Ayutthaya Historical Park covers an area of 289 hectares, and you would need several days to truly explore it all. Still, you can fit all the most important places to visit within the park into a single day with a little planning.

Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was once the capital of the kingdom of Siam–centuries before the land became known as Thailand. Today, the ruins of this city–characterized by its giant spires, prang (reliquary towers), and moats surrounding the temples–offers visitors a chance to explore a completely different side of "the land of smiles."

There are several ways to travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya–from the easy do-it-yourself option on public transportation to the comfort of a guided tour. No matter what your preferences are, here is a breakdown of the options for getting to Ayutthaya:

On This Page:

• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Tour
• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Train
• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Bus
• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Private Tour

1. From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Tour

Ayutthaya is a massive maze of temples that spreads over 289 hectares. There's little rhyme or reason to the location of the buildings and even with a map, chances are you'll have a hard time locating specific ones.

One of the main advantages of joining an Ayutthaya Sightseeing Day Trip from Bangkok is that your English-speaking guide will take you to see the main wats (temples), so you don't have to wander around and miss out on the most important buildings. Main stops in this tour include Wat Phra Si Sanphet (the holiest and most impressive of the temple ruins); Wat Yai Chai Mongkol (famous for its 121-foot-long and 26-foot-high reclining Buddha statue); and Wat Mahathat, best known for the massive tree roots overtaking the building. You'll also stop by Wat Mongkhon Bophit, an active worship temple where you can see one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in Thailand.

A tour also gives you a chance to hear the story behind Ayutthaya–there aren't many signs posted around the ruins, so without a guide, you'll miss out on the little details that make the place truly amazing.

After a morning exploring the ruins , your air-conditioned minivan will take you to lunch. You'll get back to Bangkok on a riverboat cruise down the Chao Phraya River, enjoying views of the temples lining up along the riverbank on the way. Once in Bangkok, another minivan will be waiting to bring you back to your hotel.

2. From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Train

For a scenic route with a touch of local charm, trains departing from Bangkok's Hualamphong train station will get you to Ayutthaya in 80 to 150 minutes, depending on which service you choose. The fastest train of the day is the 8:30am train, which completes the journey to Ayutthaya in 77 minutes.

First-class tickets are not available for local, short-distance trains, but second-class will get you comfortable seats in an air-conditioned carriage for a reasonable rate. You can check train times online , but the reservation system is only in Thai. You can instead book tickets through an agency like 12go , which handles most of the transportation ticket sales in Asia.

Alternatively, you can just walk into any train station and buy tickets over the counter. Third-class tickets in carriages with no AC (which cost less than a cup of coffee and are the cheapest travel option available between the two cities) don't offer a reservation option, so arrive at the station early if this is your preferred travel choice. An unexpected plus of train travel is that there are vendors on the train offering cold drinks, fresh fruit juice, and packs of pineapple chunks to make your trip a lot better.

The railway station in Ayutthaya is not near the temples . You'll either have to take a ferry or a tuk-tuk (three-wheeled motorcycle taxi) to the ruins. If you don't want to walk the entire complex, you can rent a bike or pay a tuk-tuk driver to take you from one temple to the next–an especially good idea on a very hot day.

3. From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Bus

Up until 2016, it was possible to take a regular city bus to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok, but the route no longer exists. Instead, passengers trying to reach the ancient city via public transportation will have to use a minivan instead. The vans (which carry 12 passengers) are Thailand's midway option between buses and taxis. They're faster; they have AC; and they're a lot more comfortable than crowded, hot city buses.

Minivans leave from Mo Chit Bus Station and cost about double the price of the train. There's no set time for departure and you can't book tickets in advance–instead, minivans will leave as soon as they're full, which means you could wait around anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes.

Keep in mind that the minivans make several stops along the one-hour trip to Ayutthaya, and you have to stay on until the last stop to reach the ruins. Once you get off at Naresuan Alley, it's a short walk to Wat Mahathat in the northeast corner of the park. You'll walk past Chao Phrom market on the way there, a good place to grab a snack and a cold drink before you reach the archeological park.

4. From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Private Tour

If you're seeking privacy and a more in-depth look into Thai history and culture, a private Ayutthaya Day Trip from Bangkok might be your best bet. Lasting 8 to 10 hours, this round-trip in an air-conditioned van not only allows you more time to explore the temples but also gives you a chance to discover some Thai delicacies along the way. Even better, this full-day itinerary is completely private for you and your group, so it can be modified and slightly customized based on your needs.

After you're picked up from your hotel, the tour takes you to the most important attractions at the ruins, including the most famous wats, such as Wat Phra Sri Sanphet (famous for its restored three chedi-mound-like structures resembling a bell that are used to house relics); Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit and its massive golden Buddha statue; Wat Mahathat (home to a stone Buddha head wrapped in the roots of a tree); and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Ayutthaya's best known and most impressive temple.

This unique tour then takes you to taste local snacks directly from a local market and to get a behind-the-scenes look into the production (and tasting) of Roti Saimai, a cotton candy delicacy wrapped in a sweet roti bread. End the day with a traditional Thai meal onboard a rice barge docked on the Chao Phraya River before the van takes you back to your hotel.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Bangkok: While you are in Bangkok exploring the city, be sure to have a look through our article on the top tourist attractions in Bangkok to help plan your sightseeing.

Things to Do in Ayutthaya: If you decide to see the sights on your own, or you're just wondering what to do in Ayutthaya, see our list of top attractions in Ayutthaya , which also offers tips on Where to Stay.

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Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101

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Welcome to Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101

Luxury living in bangkok.

Enjoy short-, mid-, and long-term stays that feel like home at Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit 101, where comfortably elegant studios and one- and two-bedroom suites combine the service and amenities of a luxury hotel with the space, ambience and privacy of home. Perfectly located near the Skytrain and the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC), our hotel offers convenient access for businesses and residents alike. Whether you’re in Bangkok on an extended work engagement, relocating or traveling with your family, our serviced apartments will delight you with space to spread out and plush amenities with upscale décor. Accommodations include separate sleeping, living and working areas and gourmet kitchens. Enjoy hotel-style amenities like onsite dining, a Boardroom and a 24-hour fitness center with an outdoor saltwater pool. And dedicated 24-hour staff and security to make you feel at home. At Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit 101, You don’t stay here. You live here.®

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Check-in: 3:00 pm

Check-out: 12:00 pm

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Guests can indulge in all-day dining at the vibrant Residence Lounge restaurant and its cozy outdoor terrace on the third floor. Experienced chefs craft special and unique dishes from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

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3029 Sukhumvit Road, Phra Kanong, Bangkok, Thailand, 10260

Taxi; fee: 450 THB (one way) ;on request

Taxi; fee: 500 THB (one way) ;on request

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Ekkamai Bus Terminal

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BTS Punnawithi Skytrain station

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Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Property Details

Accepts: Cash, Credit Cards

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Property has elevators

Languages spoken by staff: English, Thai

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +66 2-0882556

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Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

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Room and Suites Access through the Interior Corridor

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Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

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Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 is 3:00 pm and the check-out time is 12:00 pm.

The pet policy at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 is:

The parking options at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 are:

The property amenities at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 are:

Yes, Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

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BANGKOK, SUKHUMVIT 101 - MARRIOTT EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS®

3029 Sukhumvit Road, Phra Kanong,

Bangkok, Thailand, 10260

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