7 Best Day Trips from Bangkok:
The Ultimate Guide
Escape the hustle of the city with these unmissable day trips from Bangkok
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The city of Bangkok is bursting at the seams with things to do, but just a day trip away lies floating markets, UNESCO world heritage sites and white sand beaches. If you’re looking for places to see outside the confines of the city, here are some of the most exciting day trips from Bangkok.
1. Ayutthaya: The Ancient Capital
Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was the heart of Siam for over four centuries. It was one of the world’s largest and most prosperous cities, and today transports visitors back in time. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its breathtaking ruins and temples. Wandering through the Ayutthaya Historical Park, you’ll encounter ancient palaces that once housed the ashes of kings, a 62ft seated Buddha and a lone Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Banyan tree. Rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk to navigate the sprawling site. Read our full Guide to Visiting Ayutthaya here.
Location: Ayutthaya is located about 80km (50 miles) north of Bangkok. It’s accessible by train, busvor private car, with a journey time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.
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2. Kanchanaburi: The River Kwai and WWII History
Nestled along the banks of the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi is a painstakingly beautiful area pockmarked with the scars of war. It’s most famous for the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai, a poignant symbol of the region’s World War II history, particularly the tragic construction of the Death Railway by Allied prisoners of war under Japanese occupation. Visit the JEATH War Museum and War Cemetery to understand the harsh and brutal conditions faced by POWs. You can take a train ride along the Death Railway from the Bridge on the River Kwai to Nam Tok, which takes you past the haunting Chaungkai Cuttings and the dramatic Wampo Viaduct that hugs the jungle-clad cliffs. Read our full Guide to Visiting Kanchanaburi here.
Location: Kanchanaburi is about 130km (81 miles) west of Bangkok. It’s reachable by train, bus or private car, with a travel time of about 2 to 2.5 hours.
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3. Erawan National Park: A Natural Oasis
Erawan National Park, located in Thailand’s Kanchanaburi Province, is a breathtaking natural sanctuary known for its stunning waterfalls. Established in 1975, the park covers over 550 square km of rugged terrain and limestone hills, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park’s centerpiece is the magnificent Erawan Waterfall, a seven-tiered cascade named after the three-headed white elephant from Hindu mythology (also the name of the park itself). Each tier of the waterfall offers crystal-clear emerald pools perfect for swimming and relaxing. Besides its waterfalls, the park boasts a network of hiking trails, caves like Phartat Cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and a variety of animals including cheeky macaques, monitor lizards, and rare bird species. Read our full Guide to Visiting Erawan National Park here.
Location: Erawan National Park is about 200km (125 miles) north west of Bangkok. It’s reachable by train, bus or private car, with a travel time of about 3 to 4 hours from the city.
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4. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market
Damnoen floating market is a classic Thai experience where you can see vendors sell their goods directly from traditional wooden boats along a network of canals. Expect to find tons of fresh produce, tropical fruits, fragrant flowers and delicious Thai street food, such as coconut pancakes, boat noodles and mango sticky rice, all sold from boats paddling through the waterways. It’s a glimpse into traditional Thai life and commerce on the water, and is often paired with a visit to the equally fascinating and unique railway market, which lies a short 30km away.
The Maeklong Railway Market is located along a fully functioning railway track. Hold your breath and squeeze in as the train comes through the centre of the market, causing vendors to quickly remove their goods before they get squashed! This dramatic moment happens several times a day and is a unique and fun way to experience traditional Thai life. Read our full Guide to Visiting the Floating & Railway Markets here.
Location: Both markets are located in Samut Songkhram province. Damnoen Saduak is about 100km (62 miles) southwest of Bangkok, and Maeklong is around 80km (50 miles) southwest. Both are accessible by private car or organized tours, with many tours combining a trip to both markets.
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5. Nakhon Pathom: Dragons & Stupas
Nakhon Pathom is a city known for its impressive Phra Pathom Chedi, the world’s tallest stupa, which stands as a significant religious and historical monument. It’s an awe-inspiring gold structure that stands at a whopping 120m (343ft) tall. About 30km outside Nakhon Pathom is the home of the Giant Dragon, a dragon statue that wraps itself around a 17-story temple tower, painted in bright, vivid colours. This colossal beast is a rare sight in any temple and has to be seen to be believed!
Location: Nakhon Pathom is about 50km (31 miles) west of Bangkok. It’s easily accessible by train, bus or private car, with a journey time of around 1 hour.
6. Pattaya: The Party Beach
Located around 2 hours from Bangkok, Pattaya is where you go to lounge on the beach, sip cocktails and dance the night away. Quiet solitude you won’t find here. Instead, you can set up your beach towel anywhere along the 2.5 mile white sand beach and bask in the warm, tropical sunshine. If lying in the sun all day isn’t your thing, head to the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden to explore the landscaped gardens. The Sanctuary of Truth, an intricately carved, awe-inspiring wooden temple, is also worth a visit for its breathtaking beauty. Read our full Guide to Visiting Pattaya here.
Location: Pattaya is located about 150km (93 miles) southeast of Bangkok. It’s easily reachable by bus, car or private transfer, with a journey time of around 2 hours.
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7. Amphawa: Floating Markets & Twilight Fireflies
Amphawa is a charming riverside town known for its traditional floating markets along the winding Mae Klong River. Vendors sell fresh seafood, desserts and crafts from boats moored along the canals. It’s a great spot to enjoy Thai street food and experience a more authentic way of life than in the bustle of Bangkok. As dusk falls, the riverbanks come alive with the soft, flickering lights of thousands of fireflies. This natural phenomenon is best enjoyed from traditional long-tail boats that glide quietly through the water and can be hired while you’re there. The mix of culture, traditional food and natural beauty make Amphawa one of our favourite day trips from Bangkok.
Location: Amphawa is about 90km (56 miles) southwest of Bangkok. It’s accessible by car or organised tour, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours.
