Top 7 Day Trips from Bangkok

Bangkok is a sensory delight – a mesmerizing mix of temples and markets, trendy bars and historic royal palaces, timeless shrines and futuristic malls, all woven together along the winding Chao Phraya River.

However, for all of Bangkok's dazzling charm – along with its exceptional food and nightlife – the city can feel a bit daunting for those unaccustomed to its bustling crowds, heavy traffic, and vibrant noise.

During Bangkok's peak season from November to February, the weather is pleasantly mild and dry, making it ideal for exploration, though the crowds can feel like a music festival. Don't worry – convenient day trips from Bangkok allow you to escape the hustle and embrace a quieter, more serene side of the Land of Smiles.

From historic towns and ancient sites to poignant WWII landmarks and beautiful beaches, here are our top recommendations for day trips from Bangkok.

1. Experience Tranquility in Bang Krachao

Travel Time: 30 Minutes

Although officially part of Bangkok, Bang Krachao feels like a slice of rural Thailand, standing in stark contrast to the bustling city surrounding it. Nestled within a bend of the Chao Phraya River, this serene area features attractions like the Bang Nam Pheung floating weekend market, several historic temples, and an eco-resort where you can stay in a treehouse.

Covering 16 sq km (6.2 sq mi) of mangrove forests, quaint homesteads, and raised pathways over winding canals, Bang Krachao is a cyclist's paradise, with trails winding past teak houses shaded by palm trees. However, exploring on foot allows you to fully appreciate the remnants of the villages that have been enveloped by Bangkok's expansion.

Don't miss Si Nakhon Kheun Khan, a public park and botanical garden that boasts bike paths, fishponds, and a lookout point perfect for spotting a variety of stunning Thai birds, including the pink-necked green pigeon.

Getting to Bang Krachao: You can reach Bang Krachao by taking a five-minute boat ride from Wat Klongtoey Pier, located in the southeast part of the city. It's approximately a half-hour taxi journey from central Bangkok, though travel times may increase during peak traffic. Once you arrive on the island, you can rent bikes at the pier.

2. Cycle through pottery villages on Ko Kret

Travel Time: 1 Hour

Ko Kret, a man-made island nestled in the Chao Phraya River, was initially settled by the Mon people from Burma, who ruled central Thailand from the 6th to the 10th centuries. Located twelve kilometers (7.5 miles) north of downtown Bangkok, this charming island remains largely untouched by modern development, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, where only bicycles and motorcycles are permitted on its solitary road.

Renowned for its handcrafted terracotta pots adorned with intricate carved designs, Ko Kret invites visitors to explore local workshops and purchase ceramics directly from artisans who uphold traditional crafting techniques. Biking or taking a moto-taxi is the best way to navigate the island. Be sure to visit Wat Poramai Yikawat, the island's most impressive temple, featuring a leaning Burmese-style chedi (stupa), a grand marble Buddha statue, and a museum displaying local ceramics and religious artifacts.

On weekends, a lively morning food market comes alive with vendors offering Mon cuisine and Thai desserts, attracting both locals and visitors. Arriving at 9am will ensure you get the best variety of dishes to try!

Getting to Ko Kret: Situated north of central Bangkok, the simplest way to reach Ko Kret is by taxi or bus 166 from Victory Monument to Wat Sanam Neua in Pak Kret, where you can catch a ferry across the river. Alternatively, you can hire a longtail river taxi from Nonthaburi, the northern end of the Chao Phraya Express riverboat service. The ride from Saphan Taksin (Central Pier) to Nonthaburi Pier takes about 40 minutes.

3. Explore the historic stupa of Nakhon Pathom

Travel time: 1 hour

Located about 64km (40 miles) west of Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom provides a glimpse into authentic Thai life, free from the commercial hustle of the capital. This relaxed city is popular with locals, featuring vibrant markets, including delightful night markets where you can savor delicious street food.

The primary attraction here is the magnificent Phra Pathom Chedi, one of Asia's tallest stupas, reaching a height of 120m (394ft). Originally established in the 6th century, this sacred site has undergone numerous renovations over the years. A Khmer-style prang (temple tower) was added in the 11th century but was destroyed by Burmese invaders, lying in ruins until the current bell-shaped stupa was built in the 1860s.

Getting to Nakhon Pathom: Trains traveling to southern Thailand from Bangkok make a stop in Nakhon Pathom, and you can also catch commuter trains from Thonburi station. Additionally, regular buses operate from Bangkok's southern bus terminal.

4. Discover the enchanting temple ruins in Ayutthaya

Travel time: 1 hour

Before Bangkok rose to prominence as Thailand's capital, Ayutthaya served as the official seat of the enduring kingdom of Siam. Founded around 1350, this ancient city was once home to approximately 400 temples and palaces, many lavishly decorated with gold leaf. Most were devastated by Burmese invaders in 1767.

Today, the numerous ancient remnants of Ayutthaya stand as elegant ruins, rivaling Cambodia’s Angkor Wat for tourist appeal. The Khmer-style spires of Wat Ratchaburana still soar majestically as they did in the 15th century, while Wat Mahathat is famous for its sandstone Buddha head, entwined in the roots of an ancient Bodhi tree. Additionally, Chao Sam Phraya National Museum houses artifacts once kept in the temple’s crypts, including historical Thai pottery.

The temples are scattered throughout the tranquil Ayutthaya Historical Park, which is best explored by bicycle. You can rent bikes right outside the Ayutthaya train station upon arrival. Alternatively, hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun and easy way to navigate this captivating UNESCO World Heritage site.

How to reach Ayutthaya: Located north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is about an hour's drive or shared minivan ride from the Victory Monument. The train to Ayutthaya Station, roughly 4km (2.5 miles) from the ruins, takes about the same amount of time.

5. Explore WWII history and beyond in Kanchanaburi

Travel time: 2–3 hours

With its somber past, Kanchanaburi has gained a reputation for its modern allure. The town is home to the hauntingly named Death Railway Bridge, constructed by Allied prisoners during WWII and forever linked to the largely fictional narrative of Pierre Boulle’s novel The Bridge Over the River Kwai, which was later adapted into a Hollywood film featuring Alec Guinness.

In addition to this evocative structure, Kanchanaburi is filled with intriguing war museums – such as the JEATH War Museum, showcasing photographs, artworks, and wartime artifacts (including an unexploded bomb). The streets are also lined with solemn cemeteries that serve as poignant reminders of the harrowing events that unfolded here.

However, Kanchanaburi offers much more than its military past. For those seeking relaxation, the surrounding countryside is filled with laid-back outdoor pursuits. Stroll along the charming Heritage Walking Street, then venture into the fascinating cave temple of Wat Ban Tham, which has an entrance that resembles a dragon's mouth. Enjoy a bamboo raft ride on the river or take a dip in the breathtaking waterfall at Erawan National Park, and consider joining an organized trek into the lush jungles nearby.

How to reach Kanchanaburi: Situated west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is about a two-hour drive away. Minivans frequently operate from Bangkok's Victory Monument to cover this route. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kanchanaburi, although this requires a transfer in Nakhon Pathom; plan for a total travel time of around three hours.

6. Discover the nearest beaches to Bangkok in Pattaya 

Travel time: 2–3 hours

Is visiting the beach resort of Pattaya worthwhile? Opinions vary. For some, it’s a conveniently located Thai beach getaway, ideal for those in the capital, brimming with attractions for all ages, including two water parks, a zipline course, and numerous hotels and restaurants catering to tourists.

Conversely, others might be put off by the tourist-centric atmosphere and the remnants of the sex industry that have characterized Pattaya since the 1960s, when American GIs began flocking here.

However, it’s easy to steer clear of this scene. Pattaya also features some lovely beach areas—specifically Naklua to the north and Jomtien to the south—perfect for a refreshing swim after the heat of Bangkok. For night owls, there’s a variety of non-seedy bars, including the live music venue Hot Tuna, along with plenty of nightclubs.

How to reach Pattaya: Pattaya is located about two hours southeast of Bangkok by road. Numerous companies provide direct bus and minibus services to Pattaya, including 12Go Transport, with departures available from Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station on New Petchaburi Rd in Bangkok.

7. Relish the sun, sand, and seafood in Hua Hin

Travel time: 3–4 hours

As Thailand’s first beach resort, Hua Hin combines city life with coastal charm, featuring vibrant markets, excellent golf courses, and water parks, all within a growingly chic and cosmopolitan atmosphere. It offers a more laid-back vibe compared to other popular beach destinations, with some visitors never even feeling the need to touch the sand.

Once a humble fishing village, this destination gained fame in the mid-1920s when it evolved into a luxurious resort town for the nobility of Bangkok. Summer palaces were constructed by Kings Rama VI and VII, and today, Hua Hin welcomes visitors from all walks of life in the capital.

Located about three to four hours from Bangkok, many day-trippers opt to stay overnight, with the town offering a variety of guesthouses for everyone, from common folk to royalty. The local restaurants also serve a plethora of affordable yet high-quality seafood.

While Hua Hin's shallow beaches may not rival those of Thailand’s Lower Gulf islands, it proudly holds the title of Thailand's kiteboarding capital, thanks to its strong and consistent winds. Numerous schools, such as Kiteboarding Asia, offer lessons for enthusiasts.

How to get to Hua Hin: Situated 221km (137 mi) southwest of Bangkok, Hua Hin can be reached in just under three hours by car or four hours by bus. Direct train services connect Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Hua Hin in approximately four hours.