Like it or hate it, Bangkok is a metropolis that by no means ceases to amaze. With its glittering temples, bustling markets, towering skyscrapers and limitless eating choices, the consistently evolving Thai capital pulses with power day and night time.
However typically it get’s a bit an excessive amount of, typically you yearn to see a extra laid-back facet of Thailand. Fortunately, the capital metropolis makes an ideal base from which to discover extra of Central Thailand.
Whether or not you’re traveller seeking to discover extra of Thailand, or an expat residing in Bangkok needing a weekend escape from town, there are many choices for simple day journeys from Bangkok.
There are such a lot of fascinating locations to go to close to Bangkok the place you possibly can expertise a special facet of Thai life. From floating markets to historic wonders, lush nationwide parks to tropical seashores, and conventional Thai cities, these Bangkok day journeys provide a refreshing escape from the site visitors and crowds.
Exploring past Bangkok additionally offers you an opportunity to see Thailand’s magnificence and variety and a extra laid again, conventional lifestyle. So ensure you go away time in your Bangkok itinerary to discover past town too!
The Finest Day Journeys From Bangkok
As a frequent customer to Bangkok, right here is my decide of the very best locations to go to close to Bangkok that are perfect for day journeys. I’ve included all probably the most well-known vacationer points of interest together with some hidden gems you’ve probably by no means heard of!
- Most Iconic – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
- Finest For Historical past Buffs– Ayutthaya and Lopburi
- Most Scenic – The River Kwai and Erawan Nationwide Park, Kanchanaburi
- Finest For Nature Lovers – Khao Yai Nationwide Park
- Finest For Finest Seashores – Pattaya and Hua Hin
- Most Genuine Native Tradition – Nakhon Pathom
- Finest Day Journey Inside The Metropolis– Bang Krachao
- Finest Hidden Gem – Koh Kret
- Finest Museum – Mueang Boran (The Historic Metropolis Museum)
- Finest For Youngsters – Dream World Theme Park
- Bonus Ideas – Angkor Wat From Bangkok?
Preserve studying and I’ll reveal the very best locations to go to close to Bangkok you can go to on a day journey. In addition to explaining why these locations are price visiting, I’ll provide you with some tips about how one can get to those locations by way of public transport in addition to recommending the highest rated guided excursions.
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Ideas For Exploring Central Thailand
Bangkok has fairly good public transport and many of those close by locations in Central Thailand are additionally accessible by way of bus or practice. Rome to Rio is an efficient solution to examine transport schedules and plan your route and the best solution to e book bus and practice tickets is on 12 Go Asia. For brief distances, Seize Taxi is a handy solution to journey.
Nonetheless some locations might require a number of strategies of transport which could be complicated and wastes invaluable time and makes your day a bit nerve-racking. For those who’d wish to take the stress out of getting round and have an area information to deal with every little thing and convey the sights to life then taking a guided day tour is effectively price it. You will note extra that you can by yourself, plus the guides normally take nice photographs!
The best and most handy solution to e book these Bangkok day journeys and excursions is on Viator or Get Your Information. On these trusted platforms, you possibly can learn trustworthy opinions and e book your day journeys earlier than you get to Thailand. Klook can be widespread in Thailand, and typically presents cheaper costs, so it’s effectively price checking Klook out too.
Most non-public excursions from Bangkok additionally embrace resort pick-up for a stress-free expertise, whereas price range group excursions usually require you to get to a gathering level. At all times examine what’s included – some excursions don’t embrace entrance charges so keep in mind to convey sufficient money in Thai Baht to cowl this and any drinks, snacks, or souvenirs you may wish to purchase.
The Finest Bangkok Day Journeys
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market
You’ve most likely already seen Bangkok’s floating markets throughout your social media feed, so this iconic website is probably going already on the high of your Bangkok bucket listing!
Bangkok was often called the ‘Venice of the East’ because of it’s quite a few canals and waterways and, whereas roads have changed lots of them within the metropolis heart, you possibly can nonetheless get a glimpse into the previous by visiting a floating market outdoors town.
There are a number of floating markets round Bangkok, the largest and most well-known of which is Damnoen Saduak. Day-after-day, many flower, fruit and memento sellers commerce immediately from their small picket boats, whereas buyers cruise previous in conventional long-tail boats making their purchases.
Another excuse why most vacationers select Damnoen Saduak market is as a result of it’s very shut to a different Insta-famous Bangkok sight – Maeklong Railway Market.
Sure, that is the distinctive market constructed alongside (and dangerously near) a rail observe! A number of occasions a day, trains go via the market, which is a bewildering sight to see. Watch how the practice goes proper over the distributors’ merchandise, skimming them by lower than an inch!
It’s undoubtedly one in every of these experiences that makes you assume, “Solely in Asia!”
Different floating markets, just like the Amphawa floating market, solely occur on the weekend, plus it isn’t as large as Damnoen Saduak. The floating markets are fairly touristy these days however are nonetheless probably the most enjoyable, vibrant, and distinctive experiences you possibly can have in Thailand – don’t neglect to haggle although!
Getting right here
The floating markets and the railway market are positioned outdoors of Bangkok and is usually a bit tough to succeed in by way of public transport. It’s a lot simpler to go to these markets via a tour, which takes you to each sights.
For instance, this high rated Floating market and Railway Market tour presents group or non-public journeys from Bangkok to each markets, with resort pick-up and drop-off. The tour features a practice experience via the railway market and a long-tail boat experience via the floating market.
Alternatively, visiting the markets and not using a tour is feasible by taking a bus from the Southern Bus terminal in Bangkok. Nonetheless, the general public bus can get cramped, and the journey takes longer as there are numerous stops alongside the best way.
Entrance to the floating market is free, however you could lease a ship to journey via it (costing round 2,000 baht for one hour) so in case you’re on a price range it’s higher to go together with a gaggle tour that features this.
Additionally, be aware that the railway market has round six trains passing via it every day, so in case you are going by your self slightly than on a tour, plan accordingly to see the spectacle.
The Ruins of Ayutthaya – The Historic Capital
Earlier than Bangkok – there was Ayutthaya. The island metropolis of Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam between 1350 and 1767.
Ayutthaya was one of many world’s wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities earlier than it was razed by the Burmese. It’s now an archaeological and UNESCO world heritage website and probably the most widespread Bangkok day journeys!
Visiting Ayutthaya Historic Park appears like stepping again in time. It’s dwelling to many desirable historic ruins, together with Buddhist temples, monasteries, palaces, and statues, making it the very best day journey outdoors Bangkok for anybody excited about Thai historical past.
Highlights embrace Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, the reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam, and Wat Mahathat the place you’ll see the well-known Buddha head entangled in a Bodhi tree.
Even in case you’re not a historical past buff, you’ll nonetheless take pleasure in a day journey to Ayutthaya, as it’s undoubtedly a phenomenal and peaceable place with a relaxing vibe.
You possibly can hop on a motorcycle and experience between ruins, relax by the water, or discover little markets at your individual tempo. This picturesque historic metropolis is a must-see when visiting Bangkok.
Getting there
You may get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok by bus or practice. Buses are the quickest and most cost-effective choice, taking 1 to 1.5 hours and costing roughly 50 Baht. By practice, it takes 1.5 – 2.5 hours and prices round 80 Baht.
Whereas getting public transport there’s simple, it’s additionally price choosing a guided tour to be taught extra in regards to the historic metropolis and historical past of Thailand. There are alternatives for each price range pleasant group excursions and personal excursions, some additionally embrace a go to to Bang Pa Palace or a ship experience on the river so as to add to the expertise.
This high rated small group Ayutthaya tour contains spherical journey transport from Bangkok, entrance charges and a guided tour to discover the park’s principal highlights.
For those who’d desire a non-public expertise this non-public Ayutthaya tour contains personalised service from your individual driver and native information. Plus, you’ll additionally take pleasure in a ship journey around the island in addition to visiting the traditional metropolis.
Prime Tip: For those who’re touring solo, a gaggle tour is the most suitable choice for a surprising place like this, because it means you will get loads of photographs of your self in entrance of the ruins!
Lopburi and the Monkey Temple
Lopburi, often called town of monkeys, is one in every of Thailand’s oldest cities with a laid again vibe, a wealthy historical past and a smattering of historic Khmer temples in an analogous model to these discovered at Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
Like Ayutthaya, Lopburi is dwelling to fascinating historic ruins, together with temples and palaces, however what makes it distinctive is the abundance of playful rhesus macaque monkeys that roam the streets and stay freely in temples like Phra Prang Sam Yot and San Phra Kan.
Getting there
You possibly can journey to Lopburi from Bangkok in 2 – 3 hours by way of bus, practice, taxi, or guided tour. The practice journey prices round 90 Baht, whereas air conditioned mini vans value roughly 200 Baht.
You can even be a part of this Ayutthaya and Lopburi Tour which will provide you with a deeper perception into town’s historical past and tradition and permit you to go to the highlights of each Ayutthaya and Lopburi in simply sooner or later.
Facet be aware: Watch out when visiting Lopburi’s monkey temple as these are wild animals not pets. Don’t convey any meals, safe your belongings, and simply watch the playful antics of those cheeky monkeys from a protected distance.
The Bridge Over The River Kwai & Erawan Nationwide Park, Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a much less visited province west of Bangkok which presents a mixture of historical past and nature to discover. For those who’ve solely received a day then two should go to spots in Kanchanaburi are The River Kwai and Erawan Nationwide Park.
The well-known Bridge over the River Kwai, is a part of the Thailand – Burma Railway, also referred to as the “Loss of life Railway” and Hellfire Go as a result of it was constructed by World Struggle II prisoners below harsh situations.
There’s a number of museums and memorials together with the JEATH Struggle Museum and the Thailand – Burma Railway Centre, the place you possibly can be taught in regards to the fascinating historical past of the world and why it’s so vital.
You can even take a stroll down the city’s heritage strolling road to absorb the historical past, browse the lovable outlets and cafes, and don’t miss the new glass skywalk over the river Kwai for the very best views.
The close by Erawan Nationwide Park is nice for mountaineering, swimming, and enjoyable in nature. The spotlight is the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, the place every stage has crystal-clear swimming pools you possibly can swim in. You possibly can hike to every of the tiers, and the problem stage will increase the upper you get.
Visiting each sights on this charming province makes an ideal day journey from Bangkok for each historical past and nature lovers wanting to flee the capital’s buzz.
Getting there
You possibly can attain Kanchanaburi by practice, from Thonburi Prepare Station in Bangkok. This can be a excellent choice because the practice really crosses the well-known River Kwai bridge. There are two departures a day and the journey takes 2.5 hours and prices 100 Baht.
Alternatively, you possibly can take a bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal, which takes about three hours. Upon arriving in Kanchanaburi province, you possibly can take a songthaew (shared taxi) to the points of interest.
You can even take an organised small group Kanchanaburi day tour from Bangkok which incorporates spherical journey AC transportation and stops on the bridge, JEATH museum, and Erawan nationwide park.
Non-public excursions are additionally obtainable, these are customisable so if you wish to spend longer at some locations and skip others you possibly can see solely what pursuits you. This tour additionally visits an elephant sanctuary on the best way. Be aware you can solely feed, bathe, and observe the elephants – they don’t enable driving because it harms the light giants.
Khao Yai Nationwide Park
If you consider Bangkok, you envision large skyscrapers, glittering temples, bustling road markets and extremely fashionable malls. However you won’t understand there’s tons of lush greenery outdoors town, resembling Khao Yai Nationwide Park.
This UNESCO listed nationwide park positioned within the Panom Dongrak Mountains was the primary one in Thailand. It’s probably the most widespread day journeys from Bangkok for nature lovers as a result of it presents the right escape from town’s hustle and concrete sprawl. Simply a few hours from town heart, it’s like coming into a special world, with lush jungles, recent air, waterfalls, and wildlife in all places.
Right here, you possibly can hike via scenic nature trails, spot wild elephants, gibbons and hornbills, and loosen up by the well-known Haew Suwat waterfall (the one from ‘The Seashore’ film!) and take in the gorgeous views. Plus, the cool mountain air is a refreshing break from Bangkok’s warmth!
Getting there
Khao Yai Nationwide Park is positioned about 2.5 – 3 hours away from Bangkok. There isn’t a direct public transport path to the nationwide park from Bangkok, however you will get a bus or practice to Pak Chong, which is 20-30 km from the principle entrance of Khao Yai Nationwide Park. Then you definately’ll have to get a taxi from Pak Chong to the park entrance.
Contemplating this, the best solution to go to Khao Yai is on a tour. For instance, on this small group Khao Yai Nationwide Park Tour from Bangkok, you journey by mini-bus and go on a number of guided nature trails and hikes and go to the well-known waterfall.
Pattaya Seashore
Thailand’s world well-known seashores and islands are among the many finest on the planet. Whereas there’s no seaside in Bangkok you possibly can nonetheless get your seaside repair fairly simply from the capital. The closest seaside to Bangkok is Pattaya, simply two hours south, which makes an ideal day journey.
Whereas Pattaya is understood for it’s nightlife there are nice seashores full with watersports and loads of family-friendly actions to do in the course of the day, plus you possibly can simply go to Koh Larn (Coral Island) from Pattaya. One other should see is the distinctive Sanctuary of Fact, a hand-carved picket temple museum.
Getting there
You possibly can take a bus or minivan from Bangkok to Pattaya which takes 2 – 3 hours and prices round 200 baht. As soon as in Pattaya you need to use taxis and songthaews to get round.
Alternatively, if you wish to simply loosen up and go away the organising as much as another person take a small group Pattaya day journey which incorporates visiting the sanctuary of fact, a surprising viewpoint, and a ship journey to Koh Larn (Coral Island) with time to loosen up on the seaside, swim and snorkel.
Hua Hin
If you wish to go to a seaside close to Bangkok however Pattaya isn’t your model take into account Hua Hin, a royal retreat and widespread weekend break for Bangkok residents with a extra laid again, household pleasant environment.
This charming, seaside city is positioned about 200 km south of Bangkok, and boasts lengthy stretches of sandy seashores widespread with kite surfers, historic royal palaces, quite a few seafood eating places and vibrant native markets. There may be additionally a improbable water park for teenagers and a picturesque winery providing wine tasting and gorgeous views for adults.
Getting there
Hua Hin’s historic practice station is among the prettiest in Thailand. One of the best ways to get to Hua Hin is to catch a practice from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
Whereas you are able to do Hua Hin as a day journey, it takes about 4 hours to succeed in from Bangkok, so I like to recommend staying in a single day to benefit from it and keep away from dashing. There’s no scarcity of resorts together with The Hua Hin Marriot Lodge which is located within the excellent location proper on the seaside and has every little thing you want for the right seaside break.
A number of bus firms additionally function providers from Bangkok to Hua Hin from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or Mo Chit Bus Terminal. This route is a bit shorter, roughly 3 to 4 hours.
Nakhon Pathom
Nakhon Pathom, a metropolis and province positioned simply west of Bangkok, is dwelling to one in every of Thailand’s oldest cities and presents an interesting glimpse into the nation’s previous.
Whereas it’s not probably the most widespread locations to go to close to Bangkok, it’s effectively price seeing in case you desire much less touristy, extra offbeat, genuine locations. That being mentioned, it doesn’t lack stupendous sights.
Nakhon Pathom is dwelling to the Phra Pathom Chedi, the world’s tallest stupa. This temple is a powerful architectural marvel and an vital pilgrimage website. There are additionally a number of temples and the Sanam Chandra Palace price exploring too.
On the best way you can cease and take a look at the distinctive Wat Sam Phran, also referred to as the dragon temple because of the dragon that’s wrapped across the pink 17 story tower.
For a style of native life, head to the Nakhon Pathom night time market and pattern some genuine Thai road meals. I significantly suggest the Khao Chae (rice soaked in jasmine-scented water), which is a well-liked native dish.
Getting there
Nakhon Pathom is only a 1.5 to 2-hour practice experience from Bangkok (Hua Lamphong Railway Station). You can even catch a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), which takes across the similar time.
You can additionally be a part of this tour of Nakhon Pathom which visits the huge Phra Pathom Chedi, the distinctive Dragon Temple, a coconut farm and a few very instagrammable cafes.
Bang Krachao Island
For those who’re in want of a fast nature escape with out leaving Bangkok try Bang Krachao, a man-made island in the midst of the Chao Praya River.
Also called Bangkok’s Inexperienced Lung, that is undoubtedly one of many metropolis’s hidden gems, because it’s an oasis proper in the midst of town’s chaos.
What makes it so particular is that you simply fully neglect you’re in Thailand’s busiest metropolis. Bang Krachao is stuffed with lush greenery, small communities, and winding bike paths. There are not any skyscrapers or site visitors jams, simply numerous nature and recent air.
So, in case you’re not a lot of a metropolis particular person and begin discovering Bangkok a bit suffocating, take the brief ferry experience to Bang Krachao, and benefit from the slower tempo for a day.
Getting there
Attending to Bang Krachao from central Bangkok is tremendous simple. From Khlong Toei Pier or Wat Bang Na Nok Pier, you are taking a small ferry throughout the river that takes just some minutes and prices just some baht.
One of the best ways to discover the island is by bicycle which you’ll rent close to the pier. Half day guided biking excursions are additionally obtainable to present you a greater perception into this distinctive a part of town.
For those who go within the night you possibly can even see fireflies! This Bang Krachao night tour combines a motorcycle experience, dinner at sundown and an evening time river cruise amongst the glittering fireflies!
Koh Kret
One other off beat place price visiting is Koh Kret, a tiny island within the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi province, simply north of Bangkok. It’s largely unknown to vacationers, making it a real hidden gem and a rewarding expertise for individuals who wish to get off the crushed observe.
Whereas Koh Kret is tiny, there’s tons of historical past and tradition right here. The island was settled by the Mon individuals who nonetheless craft conventional pottery right now. You possibly can go to pottery workshops to see native artisans onerous at work, or in case you’re feeling artistic, attempt a pottery-making class to be taught the craft your self!
Except for the distinctive pottery, you possibly can be taught extra in regards to the Mon neighborhood by visiting the traditional temple ‘Wat Poramai Yikawat’ and, after all, attempting the native road meals. There may be additionally a weekend market.
One other distinctive facet of Koh Kret is that it’s a car-free island. As most of Bangkok (and Thailand) is just not very pedestrian-friendly, Koh Kret makes for a peaceable and refreshing change. The island is stuffed with slender paths, permitting you to discover by foot or bicycle (you possibly can lease one on the pier) and revel in a extra laid again facet of Bangkok life!
Getting there
The commonest solution to attain Koh Kret from Bangkok is by bus No. 166 from Victory Monument and No. 33 from Mo Chit go to Pak Kret Pier in Nonthaburi, the place you possibly can then take a ferry throughout to Koh Kret. The ferry experience is extremely low-cost and takes just some minutes.
You can even take a guided bicycle tour of Koh Kret, which incorporates transport from central Bangkok, guided excursions, and numerous actions. For instance, on this 8-hour Guided Bike Tour of Koh Kret, you discover the island by bike, take part in a pottery workshop, and revel in a conventional Thai therapeutic massage.
Muang Boran (The Historic Metropolis Museum)
Do you know you can now see gorgeous replicas of all Thailand’s most spectacular sights in a single simple day journey from Bangkok?!
Bangkok’s neighboring province of Samut Prakan is dwelling to a different lesser-known sight, Muang Boran, The Historic Metropolis Museum. It’s an enormous, sprawling open-air museum with replicas of Thailand’s most important monuments and historic websites. You possibly can discover by bicycle, take a tour by tram, or rent a golf buggy.
Additionally, you will discover the Erawan Museum, well-known for its gigantic, three-headed elephant sculpture. Plus, Samut Prakan has a really genuine, non-touristy vibe, so I like to recommend attempting one of many native eating places earlier than returning to Bangkok.
Getting there
Samut Prakan is lower than one hour away from Bangkok by automobile, so taking a taxi is the quickest solution to get there – relying on the site visitors.
Alternatively, you possibly can take the BTS Skytrain to Bang Na Station (on the Sukhumvit Line) after which get taxis to the Historic Metropolis and Erawan Museum. Or, take a bus to Samut Prakan from the Ekamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
You can even get a ticket and switch combo package deal that features entrance tickets to the museum and a resort switch.
Dream World
For those who’re in Bangkok with youngsters (or an enormous child your self), and searching for one thing enjoyable to do then try the Dream World amusement park simply north of Bangkok.
Dream World boasts over 40 thrilling rides and points of interest, together with the Twister, Sky Coaster, and Grand Canyon. One stunning attraction is the indoor snow park, crammed with ice sculptures and presents numerous snow actions like sledding. Whereas it’s not one thing you’d look forward to finding right here, it offers a refreshing break from the extreme Southeast Asia warmth!
There are extra exhibits and parades on the weekends, so if doable, plan your journey for a Saturday or Sunday. Whereas the park might be busier (because it’s extremely popular with locals), you’ll have a richer expertise.
Getting there
The park is a couple of one-hour drive from Bangkok. You possibly can catch a bus (bus quantity 166 and BKS Route 538) from Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Victory Monument, which stops near the park.
You can even e book Dream World’s shuttle bus service from central Bangkok by reserving a Dream World combo entrance & journey ticket upfront.
Bonus Tip – Angkor Wat Day Journey From Bangkok?
The well-known temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia are understandably high of most travellers Southeast Asia bucket listing and they aren’t that removed from Bangkok.
Some individuals have requested me if it’s doable to do a day journey to Angkor Wat from Bangkok? I’d must say no.
When you can fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap Airport in simply 1 hour, the overall journey time together with transfers and checking will probably be extra like 4 – 6 hours.
The Angkor temple advanced is so massive that you simply gained’t have sufficient time to see even probably the most well-known temples. Plus, you’d miss seeing the dawn at Angkor Wat.
I like to recommend spending at the least 3 full days at Angkor Wat, however when you’ve got restricted time this 2 day/ 1night tour of Angkor Wat from Bangkok will take you to Siem Reap, present you all of the highlights, and get you again to Bangkok by the next night. The drive from Bangkok to Siem Reap takes about 6 hours.
Take a look at my weblog with extra ideas for visiting Angkor Wat and avoiding the crowds.
Able to discover past Bangkok?
Whereas the Thai capital metropolis has sufficient to maintain you entertained for a lifetime, there are such a lot of fascinating locations to go to close to Bangkok that can present you one other facet to Thailand.
Whether or not you wish to be taught extra about Thai historical past and tradition, or simply wish to escape into nature, it’s simple to take a day journey from Bangkok to discover Central Thailand. For those who’re taking public transport use Rome to Rio to plan your route or be a part of an organised day tour for a stress free expertise.
From ruined historic cities and monkey stuffed temples, to nationwide parks, riverine islands, floating markets, and seashores, ensure that to discover outdoors the capital to expertise Thailand past the hustle and bustle of the capital metropolis.
And in case you plan to discover extra of Thailand try my different blogs and guides for ideas. My complete Thailand Journey Information and listing of the very best locations to go to in Thailand will provide you with loads of inspiration.
For those who’d like extra ideas for planning your go to to Bangkok try these blogs: