Top 11 Day Trips From Bangkok, Thailand - Updated 2024

day trips from bangkok
Chantel
Chantel 
Updated
| 7 min read
Pallavi Mandar Jadhav
Endorsed by a Bangkok Local Expert
|
Pallavi Mandar Jadhav

Bangkok - Thailand’s capital and the heart of the country. Bangkok is a metropolitan city, bustling with life and activities and you can’t help but be blown away by its affordable yet tantalizing food and huge discounts when shopping! While you rejuvenate in the meantime with an invigorating massage at one of the stunning spa hotels or put up at one of the comfiest Airbnb vacation rentals, you can also book a day tour over the weekend for sightseeing around Bangkok if you are craving a little more adventure, a little more storytelling, or more scenery. From immersing yourself in their culture by taking in their floating markets to visiting the temples where the ruins tell the story of their country, we got you covered. Continue reading for a list of the top day trips from Bangkok, Thailand.

1. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya
Source: Pixabay

Ayutthaya city is one of the most popular cities to visit in Thailand and it speaks of a beautiful but yet tragic story behind its ancient ruins – depicting a fraction of its glory in the past and the full picture of the devastation that befell the city. Ayutthaya Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it features the four spectacular temples from the early Ayutthaya period (1350-1529). The temples are surrounded by a dense forest. At the west is the site of the Royal Palace and the Royal Chapel, which is the heart of the lost kingdom.

Besides the historical legacies of this place, Ayutthaya has a vibrant culture, as well, which can be seen in its Ayutthaya Floating Market, Krirk Yoonpan’s Million Toys Museum, or the Ayutthaya Boat Museum. Ayutthaya is approximately 90 km (55.92 mi) from Bangkok and takes 1.5 hours to reach. The return trip could be slightly longer depending on the traffic conditions near your hotel.

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2. Samut Prakan

The most significant Buddhist temple of Samut Prakan province south of Bangkok is Wat Phra Samut Chedi
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Preecha.MJ used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Known for its ancient city, Samut Prakan is the place to go if you are looking for something out of the norm. The Muang Boran Ancient City is one of the biggest outdoor museums in the world and consists of replicas of Thailand’s important architectural and heritage sites. The Ancient City was built in the shape of Thailand and some of the monuments were even built to scale, to give you a full picture of what wonders Thailand holds. It neighbors Bangkok and is 41.7 km (25.91 mi) from the city center. In fact, it is quite close to the international airport.

Another popular attraction is the Erawan Museum, which features a highly popular three-headed elephant statue, completely made of bronze and an antique from the past. Dive into a panoply of scrumptious food to fill you up and some souvenirs to bring home at the Srinakarin Train Night Market – the perfect way to end your day.

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3. Pattaya

Bird's eye view of Pattaya
Source: Public Domain

Pattaya is the closest beach to Bangkok, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Jomtien Beach is the most popular, but if you are looking for some quiet time you can hire a speed boat to take you to Coral Island.

The city is home to Southeast Asia’s largest botanical garden and the world’s largest floating market, Pattaya is a place that is set to blow your mind! The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden has rich biodiversity and the most spectacular display of flowers and landscaped gardens in the country – or possibly even worldwide. This tropical garden has clinched many international awards for its design using the plethora of exotic flowers native to the region.

Pattaya Floating Market, also known as the Four Regions Floating Market, is another popular attraction. Pattaya also includes several malls with interesting attractions such as Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Buses frequently to and from Ekamai Bus Terminal.

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4. Hua Hin (from USD 217.0)

Hua Hin is a luxurious destination for a getaway holiday and it has been like this for centuries, as royalty in the past often traveled here for their vacation. Visit the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, which was built in the 1920s during the reign of King Rama VI. It has an Italian touch to it, due to the architect, and it displays verandas, latticework, and covered boardwalks using golden teak, which was obtained from the demolition of Hat Chao Samran Palace.

In addition to the intricate architecture left by the monarchy of Thailand centuries ago, there is also a modern touch to the city, due to new developments, such as the Cicada Market and the Hua Hin Night Market – these places are bustling with life and human activity. Hua Hin is 200 km (124.27 mi) from Bangkok and is a three-hour drive by car. It is best to skip the bus if you are planning a day trip.

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Private Tour: Hua Hin Day Tour from Bangkok

Duration: 14 hours

9 reviews

Bangkok Tour Guide

arnon aramnun

Arnon Aramnun

Hello My name is Arnon. I live in Bangkok I love to be guide Traveler and show you where's amazing of Thailand, you will know more about Thailand and get a great memory with new friends. I can guarantee you an outstanding experience with fun activities and knowledge on Thai history. I like to travel very much and i like to find some delicious food to taste, You'll have the chance to enjoy and have fun all day, guaranteed! If you already have any idea of your dream holiday in Thailand, send an enquiry and we will design your perfect tailor made holiday!

Tours by Arnon

Bangkok Tour Guide

Thitikarn Tantiananporn

Thitikarn Tantiananporn

5. Khao Yai National Park (from USD 165.93)

day trips from bangkok | khao yai national park

Khao Yai National Park – the hands-down winner of the best national park in Thailand! Khao Yai National Park is filled to the brim with wildlife and it is guaranteed that a trip here will give you the opportunity to get close to many impressive and magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Spot mammals, such as wild elephants, barking deer, and sun bears and reptiles, such as pit vipers and Gibson’s wolf snakes.

Along with a wide variety of birds, this place is just bursting with life and you’ll be able to watch animals roam freely on land or in the skies, or, who knows – maybe even slither up a branch next to you. However, do take note that a guided tour has to be booked when visiting Khao Yai National Park, as it is a rather large park with many wild animals. But, when you do, you are good to go, as you will be able to venture into the land which many animals call home and catch a glimpse of nature’s beautiful gifts, including the two waterfalls hidden in the park.

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Khao Yai National Park Jungle Trekking Day Trip From Bangkok

Duration: 10.0 to 12.0 hour

41 reviews

6. Koh Kret (from USD 131.0)

Your itinerary of Bangkok, Thailand, is not complete without a visit to Koh Kret. Known for its unique Mon community and traditional pottery, Koh Kret is a haven for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat. Discover the island’s rich heritage as you wander through its narrow lanes, lined with traditional wooden houses and local artisan shops. Visit the Mon Cultural Center to learn about the Mon people’s customs, traditions, and intricate pottery-making techniques.

Indulge in the island’s culinary delights, sampling local delicacies such as Khanom Krok (coconut rice pancakes) and witnessing the production of traditional sweets. Explore the riverside markets, offering an array of handicrafts, textiles, and pottery. Take a boat ride along the river, admiring the lush surroundings and glimpses of Thai rural life.

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Koh Kret Small-Group Tour from Bangkok with Lunch and Massage

Duration: 8 hours

1 review

7. Maeklong Railway Market (from USD 137.81)

day trips from bangkok | maeklong railway market

The Maeklong Railway Market is truly one of the most unique markets in the world. It started in 1905 and has been standing in the same spot ever since, even though over the years developmental work has meant that a train track has been built to cut right through it. Even with the presence of the train track, it has not stopped. In fact, the vendors pretty much ignored the fact that train tracks were built in the middle of their market – by building their market on the tracks!

When you go here, you will be able to see a wide variety of Thai sweets, meat, seafood, and other food items on the tracks. And when the blare of the horn, a train is coming, you will see how the vendors calmly pull back their goods, tents, or umbrellas that might hinder the path of the train, giving this railway market its nickname – the “umbrella pulldown” market. This one-of-a-kind market is 82.8 km (51.45 mi) from Bangkok and has gained quite a popularity with tourists.

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Mahachai & Maeklong Railway Market Day Tour From Bangkok

Duration: 8.0 hour

10 reviews

8. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Source: Photo by user Colin Tsoi used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Featuring the straightest and longest canal in Thailand, Damnoen Saduak is a lively place, where tourists flock to experience the Thai way of life. The floating market is filled with hundreds of vendors and purchasers, floating in tiny boats to sell their products, ranging from traditional Thai food to agricultural produce that they brought freshly from their own farms. This popular attraction is 94.7 km (58.84 mi) from Bangkok, with tourists usually returning by late afternoon.

The market is the ideal place to get the most authentic food items, such as the popular Thailand boat noodles! You will also be able to taste fruits that you probably never even knew existed! You can sign up for a boat tour, as well, on which you will truly experience how the locals feel boating through the long, narrow alleys.

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9. Koh Larn Island

Koh Larn island
Source: Pixabay

Ready for an adventure? Koh Larn Island heavily capitalises on their clean and azure beaches and has tons of activities planned out for you if you are a thrill-seeker! Attach yourself to a speedboat for some parasailing and you will find yourself soaring through the sky at an insane speed, right above the turquoise blue ocean. Or, swim in the tropical waters and, if you are up for some close contact with the underwater life, sign up for some snorkelling or for an underwater walk, where you can roam the seabed freely and mingle with the creatures that call the seabed their home.

Apart from this, for thrill-seekers, there are also activities like the banana boat, or you can rent a jet ski and race along the surface of the clear blue ocean.

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10. River Kwai (from USD 46.0)

One fact that has made Thais proud for centuries is that they have never been colonised. They have never been annexed and made a colony of any other western power, but they certainly have been occupied before. It is a painful part of their history, as the Japanese occupied Thailand during World War II and many lives were lost to the terrors of the Japanese. Evidence of this brutality is the Bridge Over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, which is also known as the Death Railway. The 144 km (89.48 mi) drive from Bangkok is a must for Southeast Asian history enthusiasts.

It was constructed using the slavery of hundreds of thousands of civilians from the Southeast Asian countries they occupied and also the Prisoners of War from the Allied forces. During the whole construction process of the bridge, around 13,000 of the total 60,000 POWs died, in addition to around 90,000 Southeast Asian civilian forced laborers.

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River Kwai Day Trip with train ride, (join the group)

Duration: 10 hours

11. Nakhon Pathom (from USD 90.99)

Nakhon Pathom offers travelers a blend of cultural heritage, historical significance, and spiritual tranquility. Known for its iconic Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest stupa in the world, Nakhon Pathom is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a symbol of the city’s rich religious roots.

Explore the bustling streets and vibrant markets on your day tour from Bangkok, immersing yourself in the local way of life. Visit the Sanam Chan Palace, a beautiful royal residence that showcases traditional Thai architecture and houses a museum displaying historical artifacts. Discover Wat Phra Prathom Chedi, an ancient temple complex encompassing the towering pagoda adorned with intricate carvings and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Indulge in the local cuisine, savoring delicious street food and traditional Thai dishes. Take advantage of the opportunity to witness traditional ceremonies and festivals showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural traditions.
Note: Partner link package has an option of a 1 day tour

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Nakhon Pathom Customise Multi-days tour from Bangkok

8 reviews

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Thailand

Thailand is a country with a long history of strife, due to the internal conflicts in the kingdom and incursions by other countries. These hardships, along with the resilience of its people, are what built Thailand into the flourishing city it is today. So head out and explore more of the places to visit in Thailand and what the country has to offer!

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Frequently asked questions about day trips from Bangkok

1. Which destinations near Bangkok offer the best experiences for families visiting Thailand?

If you would like to spend quality time with your family and the little ones during your day trips from Bangkok, you can keep Pattaya, Maeklong Railway Market, or Khao Yai National Park in your itinerary.

2. Which locations near Bangkok are good for avoiding crowds?

If you would like to avoid the crowd and spend time in places that offer tranquillity, some of the good options that you can consider are Koh Kret or Koh Larn Island.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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This article has been endorsed by Bangkok local expert Pallavi Mandar Jadhav

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Explorer by day, writer by night. In my waking hours I roam both the city streets and the rural areas in search of new thrills, every nook and cranny of this world a wonder waiting to be...Read more

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