7 Unforgettable Day Trips from Bangkok, Thailand

When not stuffing your face with pad Thai or sampling scorpions at the Bangkok night markets, why not leave the hecticness and see what lies outside the city.

Most people don’t realize how many day trips from Bangkok are within a few hours’ reach.

No need to pack a bag. Just hop on board and get ready for more adventures…

Best day trips from Bangkok

Ayutthaya

Until time machines become a thing, it’s fun to get a taste of what stepping back in time feels like.

Sure, you can do that in the temples within Bangkok. However, you’re still surrounded by honking cars, airplanes, and music from phones, which didn’t exist when the temples were made.

It feels different at Ayutthaya, which is why it’s one of the best day trips from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, this city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its magnificent temples, proud palaces and ruins that tell a story.

Wander around this open-air museum, imagining what this ancient city would have been like in its full glory between the 14th and 18th centuries.

Make sure to check out the Buddha head that’s been engulfed by tree roots.

How to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Getting from Bangkok to Ayutthaya isn’t only easy, but it’s also incredibly affordable. A shared minivan takes only 1.5 hours and costs $3 per person.

There’s also the option of a private car if you want pick-up and drop-off straight to your door. This is slightly pricier at around $30 but split between a group, it isn’t too bad.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, a much more relaxed city a few hours from Bangkok, ticks all the boxes. It’s quieter, full of history, cultural sites, outdoor adventures and local food.

The city is actually known for its sad history. It played a part in the Death Railway, a 415 km (258 miles) train track connecting Bangkok to Rangoon in Myanmar.

During WWII, the Japanese used forced labor under very harsh conditions, which led to many of the 240,000 workers dying. Visit the iconic bridge over the River Kwai and Hellfire Pass to learn about this time in history.

On a lighter note, you can also explore Erawan National Park with its magical turquoise pools and seven-tiered waterfall or get lost (just a little) in the mysterious caves at Sai Yok National Park.

And don’t forget, you’re in Thailand, so a handful of temples are never too far away! Find out what other adventures there are in Kanchanaburi.

How to get from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

This is another day trip from Bangkok that’s so cheap and easy to visit, you can’t say no! The bus from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi costs as little as $3 each way for the 2-3 hour journey.

Or, if you want to splash the cash a little and be a bit more comfortable, a minivan will cost you $4-5 each way.

Nakhon Pathom

Nakhon Pathom is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. In the ancient Pali language, the name means “first city.”

It’s a day trip from Bangkok that isn’t on everyone’s list, making it an even more enjoyable experience.

The star of the show is Phra Pathom Chedi. It’s one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, boasting an impressive 120m (394 ft). As you stand at the base, gazing up, you cannot help but admire this work of art.

While you’re there, check out the Sanam Chan Palace and Don Wai Floating Market. Simply wandering around the city gives you a different glimpse at life in Thailand.

How to get from Bangkok to Nakhon Pathom

The train is one way to get from Bangkok to Nakhon Pathom.

Trains leave from both Hua Lamphong Station and Thonburi Station almost hourly. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and costs about $1.

Another option is to take the bus from Bangkok’s southern bus terminal. Buses leave every 10-15 minutes and take about an hour, depending on traffic. The bus costs $1.

Plus, there’s always a taxi or private car for convenience.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is a nature-packed day trip from Bangkok and a historical one. Established in 1962, it was Thailand’s first national park and still remains the third largest in the country.

It’s super accessible and perfect for spotting animals, as long as you have a bit of luck on your side.

Keep your eye out for elephants, macaques, deer, gibbons, porcupines, bears and over 85 species of reptiles.

Can you believe you can immerse yourself in such beautiful nature just a few hours away from Bangkok?

How to get from Bangkok to Khao Yai National Park

The easiest way to get from Bangkok to Khao Yai National Park is to book a private car. It’s the most expensive option, but splitting between a group can be more convenient without breaking the bank. It’s a 2-3 hour ride, depending on how many stops you make.

You could also hop on the train, taking the Northeastern line (Bangkok-Pak Chong) and get off at Pak Chong station in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Then take a songthaew from Pak Chong Market.

Nakhon Nayok

If you really want to see some of Thailand’s spectacular countryside, head to Nakhon Nayok. It’s where Khao Yai National Park is, so imagine how lush and rich it is.

Aside from the national park, you can cruise in a longtail boat at Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, admiring waterfalls as you go. Make sure to dine at one of the riverside restaurants, too. The food is great, but the views are even better!

A recent Instagram hotspot can also be found in Nakhon Nayok. Thung Na Mui Bridge is a 150m (492 ft) S-shaped bamboo bridge that winds through paddy fields. The shots are incredible, especially if you have a drone!

How to get from Bangkok to Nakhon Nayok

The best way to get from Bangkok to Nakhon Nayok is to take the bus from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal. It takes around 2 hours.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Thailand’s most famous floating markets.

We’re not going to beat around the bush. It has become pretty touristy! This means the prices are higher, the experience feels less authentic, and sellers can be a bit more pushy.

Pro tip: If you want to experience the markets without all the tourists, head there at 7 a.m. or just before. This is when the market opens.

That being said, it’s still a unique experience as you hop in a boat and float between stalls selling all sorts of things. You can buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, herbs, spices and clothes to an eclectic mix of Chinese imported souvenirs.

Sit back and take in the wonderful sounds, sights and smells.

Pair this site with a trip to Maeklong Railway Market. Just keep your eyes and ears out for signs of a train… that’s all we’re saying!

Looking for less popular floating markets? You can find the best ones in our off-the-beaten-track guide.

How to get from Bangkok to the floating market

There are three ways to get from Bangkok to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, all taking under or around 2 hours.

To get the bus, head to Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal and take bus #78 to Damnoen Saduak. It drops you off 1 km from the market, which you can either walk or hop in a taxi to cover.

You could also join an organized tour, which will arrange your transportation.

If you’re after ultimate convenience and comfort, you can hire a private car. It is the most expensive option, but also the fastest.

Pattaya

When you need some beach time, escape Bangkok for the day and head to Pattaya.

Situated on the Gulf of Thailand, it’s a vibrant resort city known for its lively nightlife, crazy Walking Street, and pretty beaches.

Obviously, if you’re just visiting as a day trip from Bangkok, you’ll miss the best of Pattaya’s nightlife. So, consider spending the night to watch one of the city’s famous Ladyboy shows or party the night away.

Don’t worry. There’s still plenty to do during the day. Explore the Sanctuary of Truth, splash about at Ramayana Water Park, or admire the Buddha carving at Khao Chi Chan Mountain.

How to get from Bangkok to Pattaya

Going from Bangkok to Pattaya can easily be done as a day trip. You can hop on a bus for two hours, pay as little as $5, and be in Pattaya in no time.

Another option, albeit more expensive, is to hire a private car for around $40 each way.

Weather in Bangkok

Bangkok can be visited almost all year round if you’re willing to put up with some rain.

If you’re set on visiting during the best weather, head to Bangkok during its winter months — November to February. The temperatures are much cooler, and there’s little rain.

Bangkok has two other seasons, summer and monsoon. The summer months are between March and June. Temperatures are hot, and the sweat is pouring, but it’s possible to visit during this time! You’re looking at between 30-40°C (86-104°F).

You may want to avoid July to October, the monsoon season. There’s often torrential rain that can ruin your plans for the day.

Packing list essentials for day trips from Bangkok

Even if you visit Bangkok during its cooler months, it’s still relatively hot. Remember to bring lightweight and breathable clothing, but don’t forget a light sweater or shawl for the evenings and spots that blast the A/C.

Other things to consider bringing for day trips from Bangkok:

• Modest clothing for visits to temples and religious sites
• Comfortable shoes for exploring
• A good day pack
• Suncream
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Snacks and water

Map of the day trips from Bangkok

You’ll find laidback cities, stunning national parks and unforgettable activities outside the bustling capital city.

All of these day trips from Bangkok are within three hours of Bangkok.

How to get to Bangkok

Bangkok is home to two international airports, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).

It’s one of the best-connected cities in Southeast Asia, receiving flights from all over the world. Often at reasonable prices.

Sometimes, you can score flights for as little as $400 from the US or £280 from the UK.

Once in Bangkok, your primary forms of transport will be buses, tuk-tuks, taxis, the metro, and the Skytrain.

Where next in Thailand?

These day trips from Bangkok are amazing, but they may not quench your thirst for exploring the country.

Sure, you can see some incredible sites only a few hours from the capital, but if you’ve been dreaming of tropical islands or cultural cities, you may crave more.

Find out where the best islands in Thailand are, or follow an off-the-beaten-track route through Northern Thailand.

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