After making over 8 visits to Thailand at the time of writing this article, and having explored all major Thai cities, Bangkok still remains our favorite.
Bangkok is a city with a rich array of attractions, but it’s worth noting that you can broaden your Thai adventure by exploring various and versatile day trips from Bangkok.
By venturing onto the Bangkok day trips mentioned below, you can experience Thailand completely and fully all the while having a base in Bangkok.
Sounds pretty good right? Let’s get straight into what the surrounding area of Bangkok has to offer.
Top 6 Day-Trips From Bangkok
From national parks and waterfalls to historic sites and tropical islands, you can truly capture the full spectrum of the Thai experience through these Bangkok day trips alone, without ever having to lug around your bags!
*Please note that prices quoted throughout the article are based on one-way transfers unless referring to a tour.
Needless to say, each “Bangkok day trip” can be extended to an overnight stay, long weekend break, or longer.
Let’s take a look at our top choices.
1. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overflowing with historical treasures. It is number 1 on our list for a reason!
You can easily spend the day wandering around ancient temples, royal palaces, and well-preserved ruins, as well as visiting the famed Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
This special site provides a captivating glimpse into the Siamese kingdom. The city’s riverside location enhances its beauty, making Ayutthaya a must-visit destination for those eager to explore Thailand’s rich cultural history.
How do I get to Ayutthaya?
Train: The train is a scenic and budget-friendly option. Trains depart from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Station and Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours and costs as little as $2 per person.
Minivan: Minivans are a faster option than buses, and they depart from various locations in Bangkok. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours and will cost you from $4 per person.
Private Car or Taxi: For your convenience and if budget allows, you can book a private taxi on 12go with prices ranging from $36 per person, or book a private driver for a full Ayutthaya day trip.
Join a Tour: Lastly, you can join a small group tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya including lunch.
What is the fee for Ayutthaya ?
There is no fee to enter the Ayutthaya Historical Park. The major temples charge an entrance fee of 50 Thai Baht or less each.
If you are already feeling like you want more, why not make Bangkok part of your Ultimate 3-Week Thailand Itinerary?!
Please follow the dress code which means long pants or long skirts, no bare shoulders, and remove your shoes before entering a temple building.
2. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Maeklong Railway Market
As with any other market in Thailand, Maeklong Railway Market is a traditional Thai market selling fresh vegetables, food, and fruit. However, what makes this market truly special is that it is set up on both sides of a 100-meter stretch of railway track.
Yes, this train is active and actually runs through this market many times a day. A loud horn of a train will offer the warning call, this is when you know the magic is about to happen.
Simply witnessing all the vendors swiftly but calmly lower their umbrellas and move their belongings from the tracks is impressive in itself. Once the train has safely passed, everything is back to normal. This is just another part of their day and is why the market is also known as the ‘umbrella pull-down market’.
*Please be aware of the potential danger and take appropriate caution.
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How do I get to Maeklong Railway Market?
Minivan or Bus: Minivans and buses depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok to Samut Songkhram or can be booked online at 12go from $8 per person. From Samut Songkhram, you can then take a local transportation option, like a songthaew or tuk-tuk, to Maeklong Railway Market.
Private Car or Taxi: Hiring a private car with a driver or taking a taxi is a convenient option, especially if you prefer a more direct and comfortable journey. Of course, the cost for this option will be considerably higher. The drive from Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Join a Tour: Many tour operators offer Bangkok day trips to Maeklong Railway Market. These tours often include transportation, a guide, and visits to other nearby attractions. For a hassle-free way to experience the markets you can always book a tour.
You may have figured it out by now, but 12Go will be your best friend in Thailand so make sure you download the 12Go app before you arrive. Every transport option mentioned in this article will be available on 12go.
Train/Local Boat/Train: If you are looking for a bit of an adventure, (or on an extremely tight budget) then this is the option for you! Take the train from Wongwian Yai Station to Maha Chai Station. Take the Local Boat from Maha Chai Pier to Ban Laem Pier. Take the train from Ban Laem Station to Mae Klong Station. This Journey will take 3.5 hours and from Maeklong Railway Station, the market is within walking distance.
Check out the following link if you require more information on the Maeklong Railway Market where we have answered all your questions.
Combine with a Damnoen Saduak Floating Market visit:
Are you wanting more from your Bangkok day trip? Why not combine a visit to the Maeklong Railway Market with a trip to the charming Damnoen Saduak Floating Market? Both provide a more local and authentic experience than some of the other more touristy floating markets.
If you choose to travel independently to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, local tuk-tuks or Songthaews will be available for hire to take you between the two markets. Just make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
What is the fee for Maeklong Railway Market?
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Maeklong Railway Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
3. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Kanchanaburi
Our favorite Bangkok day trip combines incredible history with awe-inspiring natural beauty. Kanchanaburi is known for the historic Death Railway and Erawan National Park.
During WW II, Japan constructed a railway line that ran for 250 miles. This is now known as the Death Railway. Due to the difficult terrain, thousands of POW and Asian slave laborers lost their lives.
Click the link to find everything you need to know for your Kanchanaburi trip.
At the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, around 7,000 POWs, who sacrificed their lives in the railway construction, are buried.
Erawan National Park is famous for its emerald green ponds and tiered waterfalls and we can honestly say it will be one of the most stunning places you will ever visit.
If waterfalls are your thing then check out our favorites from Indonesia – Tumpak Sewu and Tiu Kelep. Although Erawan still ranks number one!
How do I get to Kanchanaburi?
Train: You can take a train from Bangkok’s Thonburi Railway Station (also known as Bangkok Noi Railway Station) to Kanchanaburi Railway Station. The journey offers scenic views, especially along the Kwai River, and takes around 2 to 2.5 hours,
Bus: Buses to Kanchanaburi depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok. This will cost you an extremely reasonable $3 per person and will take up to 3 hours. Tickets can be purchased from 12go.
Minivan: Minivans are a popular and convenient option for reaching Kanchanaburi. They depart from various locations in Bangkok, such as the Mochit New Van Terminal. Tickets can be booked online from 12go and will cost from $4 per person.
Private Car or Taxi: Hiring a private car or taking a taxi provides flexibility and convenience,
Join a Tour: If you prefer a guided experience, you can join a small group day tour from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.
What are the fees for Kanchanaburi attractions?
Erawan Falls: the entrance fee is 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Note that there are also a few optional fees that you might need to pay. For instance, you can rent a life jacket near the entrance for 20 baht for the first 2 hours.
Bridge over the river Kwai: There is no entrance fee to visit the bridge over the river Kwai. The track is developed into a walkway with side platforms. This allows crossing the railway bridge on foot.
A more expensive tour which includes what is sure to be a truly memorable train ride on the Death Railway is priced at $137 per person.
4. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park, located northeast of Bangkok, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the third-largest national park in Thailand.
Khao Yai National Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, outdoor activities, and a refreshing escape from the urban environment, making it the perfect addition to your Bangkok trip.
For those animal lovers, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, deer, bears, and numerous bird species.
You have the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat, making Khao Yai a complete haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
How do I get to Khao Yai National Park?
Private Car or Taxi: Hiring a private car or taking a taxi provides convenience and flexibility. The price will cost $72 one way based on 3 persons and will take 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Bus: Buses to Pak Chong, the gateway town to Khao Yai, depart from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) and Don Mueang. The bus journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and will cost from $3 per person. From Pak Chong, you can take local transportation to the national park.
Train: There is a train service from Bangkok’s Don Mueang station to Pak Chong Railway Station. The journey takes 3 hours and will cost from $3 per person. Once you arrive in Pak Chong, you can take local transportation to Khao Yai National Park.
Minivan: Minivans are available from Mochit New Van Terminal, Bangkok to Pak Chong and the ticket prices start at $6 per person. The journey by minivan typically takes 3 hours.
Join a Tour: Many tour operators offer small group day trips from Bangkok to Khao Yai National Park. These tours often include transportation, a guide, and visits to key attractions within the park.
What is the Fee for Khao Yai National Park?
The entrance fee for foreign visitors is 200 baht for an adult and 100 baht for a child.
There are also entry fees for vehicles with a 20 baht fee for motorcycles and 30 baht for cars.
Make sure to check the official park website for any updates prior to your visit.
For all the information you will need for your Thailand Holiday, check out the article below.
5. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Pattaya
While Pattaya is often considered more of a weekend destination, it’s possible to do a day trip from Bangkok.
Pattaya certainly has something to offer every kind of traveler, from pristine beaches, theme parks, street performances, markets, lively nightlife as well as cultural attractions like the Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning wooden temple showcasing intricate Thai craftsmanship.
How do I get to Pattaya?
By Bus: Buses run from various locations in Bangkok including Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and Mochit to Pattaya frequently throughout the day. The journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours. The ticket cost starts from $4 per person and you can check the schedule at the bus terminal or online.
By Minivan: Minivans also operate between Bangkok and Pattaya and are available at various locations. The travel time is similar to that of buses and the cost starts from $5 per person.
By Train: While there isn’t a direct train to Pattaya, you can take a train from Bangkok to the nearest railway station, Pattaya Railway Station, and then use local transportation to reach the city center.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: You can book a taxi for $47 for 2 persons and will take 2 hours. This option can provide convenience and includes pick-up from your hotel.
By Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to drive from Bangkok to Pattaya at your own pace.
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Join a Tour: Book a small group day trip to Pattaya city as well as a visit to tropical Koh Larn Island. Another option is to embark on a day trip to a Pattaya ethical elephant sanctuary. Both trips include transfers to and from Bangkok.
What is the Fee?
There is no entrance fee to explore the city of Pattaya, however, it is the activities during your visit which may incur fees. For example, meals, scooter hire, attraction fees, shopping, and so on. Therefore, it is necessary to plan your spending accordingly and although many places take card payments, remember CASH IS KING.
6. Day-Trips From Bangkok: Hua Hin
About a 2.5 to 3-hour day trip from Bangkok , Hua Hin is a popular and charming beach resort town. Visit the Hua Hin Railway Station, the beach, and the Klai Kangwon Palace. Most importantly, is to explore the surrounding natural attractions, such as Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park,
This park offers opportunities for hiking and trekking amongst stunning scenery However, the highlight is the iconic Phraya Nakhon Cave, which houses a striking golden pavilion (Khuha Kharuehat Pavilion). The sunlight streaming through the cave’s openings creates a magical and surreal atmosphere.
How do I get to Hua Hin?
By Train: Trains run from Bangkok to Hua Hin, and the journey offers scenic views of the countryside at a cost of only $3 per person. Trains depart from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station and the journey takes 3-4 hours.
By Bus: Buses operate from various locations in Bangkok to Hua Hin. The journey by bus usually takes 4 hours, but travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions. Tickets start from $9 per person.
By Car: Driving to Hua Hin is convenient, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. You can take the Phet Kasem Road (Highway 4) southward from Bangkok to Hua Hin. Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.
By Van: Shared vans operate between Bangkok and Hua Hin. Vans are available at various locations, and the journey will cost $6 per person. The travel time is similar to that of buses.
By Domestic Flight (to Hua Hin Airport): This may be an option for a longer period than just a day trip from Bangkok! Although there is no airport in Hua Hin, you can take a domestic flight from Bangkok to Hua Hin Airport (HHQ) in Prachuap Khiri Khan. From the airport, you can then take a taxi or other transportation to reach Hua Hin town.
As with each destination, it is important to consider your preferences, budget, and schedule when choosing the transportation mode that suits you best.
What is the fee?
Just like Pattaya, there is no entrance fee to explore the town of Hua Hin, only personal expenses.
Find out if we think Hua Hin is really worth visiting and what there is to do there.
Enjoy Your Bangkok Day Trip!
Thailand is one of our favorite countries and is also known as the “Land of Smiles” and for good reason.
What we haven’t mentioned with the above-recommended attractions is the friendly Thai people who you will be encountering, as well as some of the most delicious local food you will ever taste.
After reading this article, we hope you now recognize, as we do, that exploring Thailand through day trips from Bangkok allows you to fully embrace the wonderfully diverse offerings of this remarkable country.
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
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