15 Day Trips From Bangkok That Will Make You Fall In Love With Thailand

Bangkok buzzes with life, where ancient temples meet bustling streets and incredible street food. Even after a week, I felt like I’d barely scratched the surface. For a break from the city’s hustle, some amazing day trips from Bangkok show off Thailand’s natural beauty and rich culture.

However, sometimes, you just want to escape the busy city life and go visit a place nearby. Just to see something different, be in nature a bit more, and escape the honking for a hot minute. 

If you’re looking to venture out of Bangkok, many day trips from Bangkok are perfect if you need a short breather from the city. Here’s what I would recommend!

15 Best Day Trips from Bangkok

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is about an hour and a half away from Bangkok, or about 62 miles (100 km). Tourists can hop on a bus or rent a car to visit this famous spot. It is best known because of its boats that form a market with fruits, vegetables, and local Thai food.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a lively market that’s full of colors, making it a perfect place for photos. Visitors can also enjoy boat tours to see the market from the water.

Accommodation suggestions:

• Budget: PuengLuang Hotel

• Mid-Range: Baan Klong Resort

• Luxury: Maikaew Damnoen Resort

2. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is an ancient city about an hour’s drive from Bangkok, Thailand. Visitors can easily travel there by bus, car, or train. The city is known for its historic temples, the Ayutthaya Historical Park, and palace ruins, which tell stories of Thailand’s past, back when it was known as Siam.

Visitors can spend a whole day exploring these temples, like Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Walking among the old stone and bricks, you can imagine how grand the city used to be.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Klong Suan Plue Resort

• Mid-Range: Baan Keang Chon Ayutthaya บ้านเคียงชล อยุธยา

• Luxury: Baan Thai House

3. Pattaya

Pattaya is a beach city, just two hours away from Bangkok, that offers plenty of activities. You can laze around on the beach or be amazed by the skilled craftsmanship of the wooden carvings in the Sanctuary of Truth. 

As night falls, the vibrant nightlife comes alive on Walking Street, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s music and bright lights.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Riqueza Pattaya

• Mid-Range: Sirin Exclusive Hotel and Residence

• Luxury: Hilton Pattaya

4. Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market is pretty close to Bangkok, Thailand. You must take a car for about an hour to get there. The market is unique because it is set up on the train tracks, creating something that you’ve probably not seen before.

What makes this place so fascinating is how the shopkeepers quickly move their goods out of the way when a train approaches and then set them back up once the train has passed. This unique market attracts people from all over the world.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Royal Land Mae Klong Hotel

• Mid-Range: The Bedrooms Maeklong and Services Apartment

• Luxury: Coco View Hotel

5. Koh Kret Island

Koh Kret Island sits in the river and is famous for its traditional Mon culture and excellent pottery craftsmanship. It is also known for its ancient temples, like the famous Wat Poramai Yikawat, which reflects the island’s Mon culture. You can get there in about an hour by boat from Bangkok.

The island is a calm spot, perfect for a day away from noise. Here, you can walk around, enjoy the peaceful views, and maybe buy some cute pottery. It doesn’t cost much to visit, making it a nice, refreshing trip.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Scpอพาร์ทเม้นท์

• Mid-Range: T.U.B. Mansion

• Luxury: KALANAN Riverside Resort (former Buddy Oriental Riverside)

6. Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is in northeastern Thailand, extending across four provinces: Khorat, Prachinburi, Nakhon Nayok, and Saraburi. It is about three hours away from Bangkok by car or bus. The park is famous for its extensive, gorgeous waterfalls and wild elephants. 

People come here to walk on hiking trails and enjoy nature. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the animals and plants in the park. Admission is usually around 400 baht ($12) for an adult.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Sophia Resort

• Mid-Range: Chateau de Khaoyai Hotel & Resort

• Luxury: MUTHI MAYA Forest Pool Villa Resort – SHA Plus Certified

7. Wat Saman Rattanaram

Wat Saman Rattanaram is a popular destination in Chachoengsao, Thailand, because of the enormous Ganesha statue. The temple also stands out for its Hindu and Mahayana Buddhist blend.

It is about a 1.5-hour drive from Bangkok, and you can easily reach this place via bus or taxi. The temple features a huge reclining statue of a bright pink Ganesha, creating a spiritual significance and calm ambiance that makes it ideal for a day trip.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Yenjit Resort

• Mid-Range: Suntara Wellness Resort & Hotel

• Luxury: Baan Suan View Dee Homestay

8. Erawan National Park

Located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, Erawan National Park is approximately a three-hour drive from Bangkok. Alternatively, buses from the city can be taken to reach the park. Its natural beauty and picturesque setting make it a popular attraction.

At the heart of this park is a breathtaking seven-tiered waterfall, notable for its distinct emerald-green water. This feature attracts outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy trekking and swimming.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: แพพักลุงกรแก่งแคบ Tha Kradan

• Mid-Range: Suriyan Villa Erawan Kanchanaburi

• Luxury: ธารามนตรา รีสอร์ท (Taramontra resort)

9. Hua Hin

Hua Hin is a picturesque beach town in Thailand. It is approximately three hours from Bangkok and accessible by car or train. Renowned for its exquisite beaches and delectable seafood, it is a favorite spot among many tourists looking to unwind by the sea.

The town also offers an array of engaging activities. Visitors can explore historical palaces, visit night markets, play golf, or enjoy relaxing spa days. At affordable prices, Hua Hin’s activities cater perfectly to families seeking a fun getaway.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Karoon Hut Guesthouse

• Mid-Range: Thipurai City Hotel

• Luxury: Asira Boutique HuaHin

10. Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai

Kanchanaburi is well-known for its World War II history and the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. It takes about three hours to get there from Bangkok, making it perfect for a day trip.

Visitors can enjoy river cruises on the River Kwai, explore stunning waterfalls, and learn about history. Tours from providers in the area offer a glimpse into the area’s past and present beauty.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Cicada Hotel Kanchanaburi

• Mid-Range: Latima Boutique Hostel

• Luxury: Plakan Resort

11. Samut Prakan’s Ancient City

Just an hour south of Bangkok lies Samut Prakan’s Ancient City, an outdoor museum accessible by taxi or bus. This attraction is well-known for its miniature replicas of Thailand’s famous buildings and historic sites.

The park is a tourist favorite, providing an intriguing glimpse into Thai history and excellent photo opportunities. Visitors can comfortably explore the expansive site by strolling or renting a bike.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: @S115 Residence

• Mid-Range: Wellness Stay & Hotel Sukhumvit 107

• Luxury: Carnation Residence

12. Safari World Bangkok

Safari World Bangkok is not too far from the city center, which still means a 45-minute drive without traffic. It’s definitely a good place to visit with your family You can get there by taxi or bus, which takes about an hour from downtown Bangkok. The park offers a drive-through experience where you can see lots of animals.

There are fun shows with animals and opportunities to feed them, too. Safari World offers marine and land animal experiences, making it a full-day trip.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Station 203 Hotel

• Mid-Range: KOS Hotel Suvarnabhumi Airport -SHA Extra Plus

• Luxury: The Ram Hotel

13. Chinatown and the Flower Market

Chinatown in Bangkok is a bustling area known for its vibrant streets and delicious Thai-Chinese food. You can quickly get there by bus, taxi, or the Skytrain, which drops you nearby. 

The place buzzes with energy day and night, making visiting exciting anytime. Nearby is the Pak Khlong Talat flower market, known for its colorful and fragrant displays. Strolling through this market is like walking through a rainbow of flowers.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Luk Hostel

• Mid-Range: ASAI Bangkok Chinatown

• Luxury: The Character Yaowarat เดอะ คาแรคเตอร์ เยาวราช

14. Amphawa Floating Market and Firefly Watching

The unique Amphawa Floating Market is situated in Samut Songkhram Province, just 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Accessible by bus, taxi, or private tour, this market offers a distinctive experience as it is set alongside waterways. Here, various boats can be seen with vendors selling goods directly from them.

As dusk settles, the market offers an unexpected spectacle: firefly-watching. Thousands of these luminous insects create a magical scene as they light up the trees along the river banks. Be aware that weather conditions and time of year do influence if you see them, with October to January being the best months.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Ruean Mai Chai Khlong

• Mid-Range: Ardea Resort Pool Villa

• Luxury: Asita Eco Resort

15. Bang Krachao, the Green Lung of Bangkok

Known as Bangkok’s “Green Lung,” Bang Krachao offers a peaceful retreat across the Chao Phraya River, easily accessible by bike, ferry, or boat trip. Despite its proximity to Bangkok, this area is characterized by its tranquility and lush greenery.

Here, visitors can cycle along shaded paths, bask in the fresh air, and admire the abundance of plant life. Bang Krachao’s location starkly contrasts Bangkok’s busy streets, providing a serene escape from urban life.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: 88 Homestay

• Mid-Range: Lilliput Riverside Bangkachao

• Luxury: Riverfront Bangkok

Travel Options from Bangkok

Getting around from Bangkok to various destinations can be quite an adventure. Here are some options:

• Buses: These are accessible at Bangkok’s Bus Terminal (Mo Chit Station). Tickets to nearby provinces cost as low as 50 baht ($2).
• Trains: Departing from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, trains offer a way to explore the countryside with window views starting from 100 baht ($3).
• Taxis and Ride-Shares: These options provide flexibility but are pricier, with fares ranging from 1,000 baht ($30) upward, depending on the destination.
• Private Tours: Often including pickup from your hotel, these tours vary in price, but you can expect about 1,500 baht ($45) per person for a group day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions – Day Trips From Bangkok

Where Else Can I Go Other Than Bangkok?

Explore Chiang Mai for its markets and street food, Pattaya for its beaches, or Ayutthaya for its historical ruins. Additionally, consider visiting the tranquil beaches of Hua Hin or exploring the White Temple in Chiang Rai.

How Many Days in Bangkok Is Enough?

Three to five days gives you enough time to see the top sights and enjoy a day trip or two. This timeframe also allows a deeper exploration of Bangkok’s mouthwatering street food scene and vibrant night markets.

Can You Do a Day Trip From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

It’s not recommended to do a day trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai because of the long distance, but if you’re pressed for time, you can consider a flight. If you prefer overland travel, overnight trains are an option. They offer a unique experience, although they’re more ideal if you would stay a night.

Can You Do a Day Trip from Bangkok to Pattaya?

Pattaya is about two hours away by car from Bangkok, making it a popular day trip option. In addition to the famous beaches, don’t miss the Sanctuary of Truth, a magnificent teak structure filled with sculptures based on traditional Buddhist and Hindu motifs.

Conclusion – ​​Day Trips From Bangkok

Day trips from Bangkok come in all shapes and forms. If you want to stay inside the Bangkok metropolitan area, you have plenty of fun things that you can do to take you out of the daily hustle and bustle. 

When you’re more flexible and willing to venture out of the city limits, there’s much more for you to explore. See what destination speaks to you, and go for it!

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

Related Reads: 

• Thailand Landmarks: Must-Visit Remarkable Places That Steal Your Heart
• Fun Facts About Thailand: Fascinating Highlights You Should Know