day trips from bangkok by train

5 Do-It-Yourself Short Train Trips from Bangkok

1. Ayutthaya

ONE WAY TRAVEL TIME OF THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK: 1.20 hour

RECOMMENDED TRIP LENGTH: 1 day

Thanks to Ayutthaya’s proximity to Bangkok, Ayutthaya can be reached by car in one hour. Without having your own ride, a train is the second-best transportation option to get to Ayutthaya. Trains from Hua Lamphong, the main railway station in Bangkok, leave every hour and takes takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to arrive at Ayutthaya Railway Station. There are plenty of things to do in Ayutthaya once you arrive. Temple and palace ruins in Ayutthaya Historical Park will keep you busy all day. You may visit a floating market, elephant camps, museums with heating & service repair , once you have enough of the historical ruins. The best way to get around Ayutthaya is by motorbike or bicycle which you can rent from shops opposite to the train station. Or you can charter a local Tuk Tuk. Price for the whole day starts at 900 THB.

But if you’re looking for an easier way to do Ayutthaya in one day with a professional and fun tour guide, check out our Ancient Ayutthaya Food & History Tour .

ITINERARY FOR THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK

2. Maeklong Railway Market

ONE WAY TRAVEL TIME OF THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK: 2.30 hour

Maeklong Railway Market is famous for the train track that cuts through it and vendors’ awnings that withdraw to give way for a train to pass through. While you can get to the market by van or car, secure a good spot on the ground for photos, and wait for the train to arrive (which is what most tourists do), you can be on a train yourself and see the hustles and bustles from a different perspective. Riding a train through Maeklong Railway Market is a unique experience. The trip can’t get more local. The scenery is along the way is stunning. With people waiting to take photos when your train arrives, you feel more or less like a super star!

A train trip from Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market is not all that easy and straightforward. Plus, you must make an early start. That’s why travelers usually join arranged tours with private transportation like Offbeat Floating Markets Food Tour. However, it’s totally doable.

And once you arrive at Maeklong Railway Market, Amphawa Floating Market is only 7.5 km away. You can easily spend 2-3 hours there and might miss the last train back to Bangkok. In this case, the last minivan leaves Amphawa at 8pm.

To continue to Amphawa Floating Market, catch a songtaew (a pick-up taxi) in front of Tanachart Bank. The ride takes 10 – 15 minutes and cost 8-10 THB per person. If you plan to return to Bangkok on the same day, it’s wise to secure a seat in a mini-van back to Bangkok as soon as you arrive at the floating market.

3. The Death Railway of Kanchanaburi

ONE WAY TRAVEL TIME OF THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK: 2 – 6 hours

RECOMMENDED TRIP LENGTH: 1/2 day

The Death Railway is perhaps the most popular short train trip near Bangkok thanks to its the breath-taking scenery along the track, natural attractions, and its notorious history. The track was built during WWII by Japanese army which used forced labour of local civilian workers and Allied prisoners of war. The construction caused up to 100,000 deaths of the forced laborers, giving the track its name.

Once you leave Bangkok, your first stop is Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest golden stupa in the world (127 meters). Next is the famous River Kwai Bridge which inspired the movie The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957). Then, your train gets on the wooden tall Tham Krasae Bridge. And there you have a mountain cliff within an arm’s reach on one side, and the snaky pretty River Kwai down below on the other. It’s really pretty here so get your camera ready. The bridge is next to Tham Krasae Station from where you can make a short hike to the cave of the same name. Trains terminate at Nam Tok Station, an access to the beautiful Sai Yok Noi waterfall.

HOW TO TRAVEL ON THE DEATH RAILWAY

To travel on the Death Railway, catch a passenger train at Bangkok’s Thonburi Train Station or do a day trip on Kanchanaburi Excursion Train (Special 909/910). Passenger trains don’t stop and wait for you to visit any attractions. If you get off one, you have to board on the next one going on the same direction. Unfortunately, trains on the Death Railway are not that frequent.

The excursion trains are available on Saturdays and Sundays – 1 trip on each. They stop at most of the stations where there are attractions and allow you enough time to explore them. You leave Hua Lamphong Station at 6.30am on Special 909, ride Special 910 back to Bangkok, and arrive at Hua Lamphong at 7.30pm. A round-trip ticket costs 120 THB for non-AC car and 240 THB for AC car. If you plan to stay overnight, you’ll need to buy 2 tickets (1 for Special 909 on Saturday, and 1 to return to Bangkok on Special 910 on Sunday) Tickets are available at Hua Lamphong ticket counter. No online booking. It’s usually full so do it well in advance.

ONE WAY TRAVEL TIME OF THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK: 4 hours

RECOMMENDED TRIP LENGTH: 1/2 days

Of course you can reach Hua Hin faster by car (2.5 hr) But slow travel is more romantic and allows you to see more! One of the most popular beach destinations near Bangkok , Hua Hin now offers beyond sand-sea-and-sun. The train station itself is an attraction. Brightly painted, the wooden building features traditional Thai architecture with Victorian touches. It’s located right in the city center so reaching your other stops is super easy. Plernwan is a retro village offering quaint shops, eateries, and cute colorful accommodation. You can eat traditional food and shop for souvenirs at Sam Phan Nam Floating Market. Kids would enjoy the Venice-themed Venezia Hua Hin, an amusement park plus community mall with a small zoo and a toy train. If you want nature, the quiet Suan Son Pradipat beach and Khao Takiab hill is one train station away.

Like the Death Railway, there is an excursion train to Hua Hin. Special 911 departs from Hua Lamphong Station at 6.30am. Special 912 takes you back to Bangkok at 7.30pm. It works the same way as the Death Railway Excursion Train. There are 3 stops en-route: Phra Pathom Chedi, Hua Hin Station, and Suan Son Pradipat Station.

ONE WAY TRAVEL TIME OF THIS TRAIN TRIP FROM BANGKOK: 2 – 2.5 hours

The much history Lopburi holds makes it a great one-day train trip from Bangkok. Lopburi is one of the oldest cities in Thailand and had been a center of power since the 6th century. It was the Khmer empire’s primary western outpost in the Chaophraya basin. The city reached its most glorious period during the 17th century under the power of Siamese King Narai. The town is compact and can easily be explored on foot. Expect Khmer ruins, temples, palace ruins, and charming upcountry locals!

From the train station, walk across the street to Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat. Then to the Lopburi Palace, ruins of King Narai’s warehouses and reception halls. Next is Wat Sao Thong Thong, which used to be a Catholic church. It was converted to a Buddhist temple after King Narai’s time. Up Rue de France from the palace is Bahn Vichien, a grand mansion and the first French embassy in Thailand. Heading back towards the train track, you’ll pass Prang Kaek, one of Thailand’s oldest Khmer ruins. Nearby is Prang Sam Yod, the 13th century Khmer temple where troops of monkeys have taken a hold of. Lopburi Monkey Banquet is held here and at the San Phra Kan Shrine every last Sunday of November.

Experience Bangkok through Taste Sensations

We help foreign visitors “eat like Thais do.” Our itineraries focus on using food to connect you with local people, Thai history and Thai culture without losing touch with travel attractions. As you enjoy the food,our knowledgeable culinary guide will unveil stories behind the eateries and their famous recipes, on top of fun history, rich culture, and insights of the neighborhoods we visit.

• Delicious food at restaurants that only locals know about.
• Street food with no fear of getting sick.
• Recommended by most of TripAdvisor users.

Must-do food tours in Bangkok

Yaowarat Street Food Tour

Bangkok Best Eats Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk

Ancient Ayutthaya Food & History Tour

Offbeat Floating Markets Food Tour

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10 EPIC Day Trips from Bangkok (Do Not Miss These in 2024)

• Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Read on to discover the 10 best day trips from Bangkok that allow you to escape the city and see more of Thailand !

Bangkok undoubtedly has a place on every traveller’s Thailand itinerary . 

It is the capital city and the most populated place in the country and has two major international airports that connect tourists from all over the world. 

Bangkok is vibrant and exciting, with its thriving entertainment scene and nightlife and its gorgeous temples and attractions. 

Once you’ve seen the best part of Bangkok you may be keen to move on and explore more of Thailand . 

Rather than constantly being on the move and sleeping in a new bed every night, it can be more convenient and even more affordable to just stay in Bangkok for a few extra days and take some day trips out of the city. 

There are lots of day trips out of Bangkok that allow you to see a new part of Thailand and then return to Bangkok later in the same day. 

Whether you book one of the many Bangkok day tours, or just venture out on your own and take public transport, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the areas surrounding the city. 

The great part about Bangkok day trips is the journey there and back usually won’t take more than a few hours. 

So you can chill out and relax on public transport or your tour bus before and after your day of exploring. 

Table of Contents

Getting There:

Best day trips from bangkok.

Here is a list of the 10 best day trips from Bangkok. From islands, floating markets, and vineyards on the Chao Phraya River, to temples, historic villages and more, there is lots to see outside the city!

1) Ayutthaya

This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam is easily one of the best day trips from Bangkok. 

The country of Thailand used to be the Kingdom of Siam, and its capital city was Ayutthaya until 1767. 

Nowadays, the ruined yet still standing city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists can come and see the remnants of this once powerful kingdom. 

Throughout the grounds, you can find stone ruins of palaces, temples, and Buddha statues. 

The biggest and most popular temples to visit are Wat Na Phra Mane, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Mahathat . Be sure to look for the mysterious head of Buddha nestled in the tree roots outside Wat Mahathat. 

Ayutthaya is packed with things to see and the area is quite spread out, so you may want to hire a tuk-tuk to drive you around for a few hours. It costs roughly 1,000 Baht for the day. 

If you want to save money and you’re feeling active, you can rent a bicycle for only 40 Baht for the day and cycle through the ancient city. 

The easiest way to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok by public transport is by taking the train. The journey takes just over 2 hours.

Another option is booking a guided tour so you can learn more about the significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy comfortable private transport.

We recommend this tour on Klook .

2) Erawan National Park

This national park founded in 1975 is a hidden gem of Thailand. 

Not many people know about it, but it is overflowing with natural beauty and is one of the best day trips out of Bangkok, especially if you book it as a tour .

The main attraction of the park is Erawan Falls , a gorgeous, 7-tier waterfall with sapphire natural pools at the base.

You can swim in the pools, climb up the walking trails surrounding the waterfall, and bring a picnic (although you’re not allowed to bring food past the 2nd tier of the waterfall). 

Other attractions in Erawan National Park include Ta Duang Cave which is filled with ancient rock paintings and Tha Thung Na Village where you can see incredible traditional pottery. 

The entrance fee to the park is 300 Baht. You can rent a bicycle to cruise around the park if you wish, and it only costs 20 Baht per day.

The best way to get to Erawan National Park from Bangkok is by minivan.

It costs around 300 Baht and takes 4 hours, so the journey is long but if you’re truly looking for some spectacular natural beauty, the journey is worth it.

Or you can take the easier, more efficient way, and book yourself in for a guided tour from the city . This tour combines the park with the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi as well.

READ MORE: Play your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide .

3) Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Another top day trip from Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. 

Located in the Ratchaburi Province, about 1.5 hours away from Bangkok, this is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a sensory roller coaster, with local vendors floating in their long tail boats decked out in colourful traditional garments and selling a multitude of different products. 

Some of the most common things sold at the floating market are local food dishes and produce, flowers, trinkets, and souvenirs. 

Because Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is so famous, it is very touristy and can get crowded. 

If you can, arrive super early in the morning to beat the crowds and see more of the authentic side of the floating market before the locals start catering to the tourists.

If you’re really interested in this type of day trip, you could also visit Amphawa Floating Market. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to Amphawa Floating Market, so you can easily visit the two in one day.

The cheapest way to reach Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is by taking a public bus from the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok. The buses leave every 40 minutes starting at 6 am and the journey costs 50 Baht. 

Public buses will drop you off about 1 km away from the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, so you’ll need to hire a boat to get to your destination. 

If you’d prefer to book a tour that takes you directly to the market and guides you to the best places, that is an option as well !

4) Kanchanaburi

Another one of the best day trips from Thailand is Kanchanaburi . This quaint Thai town is not very touristy compared to Bangkok, so it’s a great way to see the local way of life.

This town is most famous for two things: The Bridge on the River Kwai and the Death Railway. Both landmarks were created during World War II, and the town is home to other notable monuments from the war.

The Thai Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway, was built by Prisoners of War and laborers of the Japanese army who were occupying Thailand.

A popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi is riding the slow train journey of the Death Railway and seeing the countryside.

The Bridge on the River Kwai is a steel bridge that was also built by war prisoners during World War II. Walk across the famous bridge and snap some photos, as it’s one of the town’s most well-known landmarks.

Kanchanaburi also has numerous museums and temples to check out. It’s a cool place to learn about history and local culture.

You can easily travel to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok by train, minibus, or taxi. The journey is about 2 hours.

You can also book a guided tour with Klook which is pretty affordable and takes you to all the highlights.

5) Wat Saman Rattanaram

If you’re interested in Eastern religions and are fascinated by Thailand’s temples, this is an awesome Bangkok day trip to take. 

Wat Saman Rattanaram is home to the largest reclining Ganesh statue in all of Thailand.  

Ganesh is a Hindu deity in the form of an elephant, and in this particular statue standing at 16 meters tall and 22 meters long, Ganesh is painted bright pink. 

This site is a significant reminder of the relationship between Hindu and Buddhist faiths in Thailand. 

Though the deity is Hindu, the temple complex surrounding the statue is full of street markets and shops selling both Hindu and Buddhist relics and trinkets.

To reach Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok, you can take a two-hour minibus from the Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal to the town of Chachoengsao which costs about 18 Baht.

There is a pickup from Chachoengsao to the actual temple.  Find more info here .

READ MORE: Start planning your trip to Bangkok with this perfect 3-day itinerary !

If you are craving some sunshine, sand, and sea but don’t have time to visit the Thai islands, you can always take a day trip from Bangkok to the seaside city of Pattaya. 

This is probably the closest beach town to Bangkok, so it’s an easy ocean getaway to escape the city life. 

Pattaya used to be a tiny fishing village, but recently it’s been overrun with tourism and is now filled with hotels, bars, and restaurants. 

But Jomtien Beach is still as beautiful as ever, and there are two gorgeous temples that remain preserved in their traditional state: Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth . 

Book your entry ticket to the Sanctuary of Truth on Klook!

It is very easy to reach Pattaya from Bangkok by public transport on a day trip.

The journey is about 1.5 hours and costs around 100 Baht, and there are lots of different public buses leaving Bangkok every two hours. 

7) Floating Vineyards

Most people probably wouldn’t think to visit a winery or a vineyard in Southeast Asia. But there are actually a few great ones that make for lovely day trips from Bangkok. 

In Samut Sakhon on the Chao Phraya River Delta you can find the “Floating Vineyards”, which are just normal vineyards that appear to be floating on water because the irrigation canals in between each row of grapes are super deep. 

The soil is very fertile and receives lots of rainfall, especially during monsoon season, so the vineyard has to be carefully maintained to ensure the crops don’t collapse into the water. 

But the canopies of grapevines hanging over the canals are such a cool sight to see. And locals harvest the grapes by floating down the canals on wooden boats and picking the grapes by hand. 

The best time to visit the floating vineyard is between November April as that’s when the harvest season is. 

Samut Sakhon is 60 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, and you can get there by minibus, taxi, or train. 

READ MORE: Looking for ideas on what to do in Bangkok? Our epic blog post will tell you everything you need to know!

8) Khao Yai National Park 

To escape the crowded city and immerse yourself in nature, visit Khao Yai National Park. 

Like Erawan National Park, the journey from Bangkok takes about 4 hours. But if you’re a true wilderness-lover, you won’t regret the long hours on the bus. 

As Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai National Park was established in 1962 and reaches all the way to the Cambodian border. 

The park is full of forests and grasslands that are home to many animals including elephants, monkeys, bears, and more. 

Some of the best activities in the Khao Yai National Park include hiking or biking along the many trails, rafting on the Khun Dan Prakan Chon Chan River, and hiking to some magnificent waterfalls. 

Wang Ta Kari Waterfall and Haew Narok Waterfall are two particularly scenic waterfalls to visit. 

You can reach Khao Yai National Park from Bangkok by public bus or by train. The bus costs around 150-200 Baht, and the train can be anywhere between 100 and 1,000 Baht depending on the class of ticket you get. 

You can also book a 1 day, 2 day, or 3 day tours to Khao Yai National Park with a local guide on Klook .

9) The Ancient City of Mueang Boran

For an interesting day trip from Bangkok packed with history and culture, head south to the province of Samut Prakan to see the ancient city of Mueang Boran.

This collection of buildings is like a giant, outdoor museum full of monuments and opportunities to learn about Thai history, religion, and architecture. 

You can tour the ruined temples and palaces of the ancient city and admire the statues around the area that show different yoga poses. 

Lots of famous and historic Thai buildings that have been destroyed over time have been rebuilt here to showcase their original design, so it’s a lovely look into Thailand’s past.

You can also visit the Erawan Museum to see traditional Thai art and furniture and a huge three-headed elephant statue, or stroll through the King Rama IX Park and relax by the lake. 

To get around the park a bit more quickly, you can also rent a bicycle or take a tram tour. 

The entrance fee to the ancient city is 500 Baht, and it is close enough to Bangkok that the easiest way to get there is to just take a taxi from the city. 

READ MORE: Be sure to add these activities to your list of things to do in Thailand !

10) Koh Kret Island

This man-made island in the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi Province is a culturally enriching Bangkok day trip. 

The traditionally isolated indigenous Mon people of the Koh Kret area continue their unique customs and traditions here, and tourists have the privilege of witnessing this special culture. 

One of the Mon people’s most treasured art forms is their pottery, usually made using unglazed terra-cotta and engraved with impressive designs and details. 

You can visit the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum to admire a massive collection of Mon ceramics, or maybe catch a glimpse of the native Mon people still crafting their pottery near the river.

Another highlight of Koh Kret Island is Wat Paramaiyikawat . This Buddhist temple is home to a golden stupa that is 200 years old and supposedly holds relics of the Buddha.

To reach Koh Kret Island from Bangkok, you can take a 15-minute taxi ride for 200 Baht, or a 30-minute public bus ride for 20 Baht to reach the town of Nonthaburi. From there, a long tail boat ticket to Koh Kret Island costs 100 Baht. 

Or if you want to skip the hassle of public transport, you can always book a day tour to the island !

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Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The perfect 3 days in bangkok itinerary (2024 guide), thailand travel tips – expert advice from 8 trips (2024), 10 best things to do in ao nang, thailand [2024], 11 activities in thailand for couples who love adventure, 2 thoughts on “10 epic day trips from bangkok (do not miss these in 2024)”.

Interesting list of trips from Bangkok. I went once to Pattaya but I don’t like it much…

Thanks for reading Damian. We were the same also. 🙂

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Day Trips from Bangkok 15 Amazingly Easy Routes (Recommended)

Looking for one of the quick day trips from Bangkok, to get away from the concert jungle for a bit? I don’t blame you, day trips are one of my favorite ways to explore Thailand. Here on this list I have put together easy-breezy locations that only need a day of exploring.

You can also do Bangkok in a day if that’s all the time you have, but everyone knows Bangkok takes years to explore properly.

I think the sweet spot for getting a taste of what this beautiful country is really like is you need to spend at least 3 weeks in Thailand . I have been lucky enough as a travel writer to be here since 2022, with no plans of leaving anytime soon. Except for the occasional pop back into the US.

Find day trips by train from Bangkok, magical rose garden towns just a few hours away, and plenty of floating markets to knock them off your list of things to do in Thailand! Let’s find you some of the best day trips from Bangkok!

Day trips from Bangkok

• visit Ayutthaya from Bangkok
• Death Rail & River Kwai tour from Bangkok

Wat Bang for a Sak Yant Tattoo

Samut prakan.

• Erawan Waterfalls
• Sun Sampran Rose Garden Village
• Khao Yai national park day trip from Bangkok

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

• Amphawa Floating Market

Maeklong Railway Market

Ayutthaya day tour from bangkok.

Going on a one-day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is one of the most popular ways to see this UNESCO site in Thailand.

How to get there: To get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya you can take a train or a car. Head to Bangkok Hua Lamphong to start one of the best day trips from Bangkok by train. The ride takes about 1-2 hours to reach Ayutthaya. If you want to take a car it should take the same amount of time to drive the 80 kilometers.

What to do: Start your day by visiting the Ayutthaya Historical Park . Explore the ancient ruins, including the Wat Mahathat, Phra Si Sanphen, and the Chaiwatthanaram. You could spend hours looking at the all beautiful details and historic sites here.

After your tour of the Historical Park, you can hop on a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River . These tours will take you along the smaller canals to see Atutthaya from a different perspective. The Roti Sai Mai Mae Nek is a famous local spot that serves Roti Sai Mai. A traditional Thai dessert with thin pancakes filled with sweet candy. You cannot miss it cart? it is right by the park.

Ayutthaya Markets

After lunch, on your one-day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok head to the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace. Or the Ayutthaya floating market is magical and where to purchase souvenirs and local goodies. End your day trip from Bangkok at Wat Phy Khao Thong for a panoramic view of Ayutthaya at sunset.

Where to Stay: A wonderful hotel to stay the night and extend your Ayutthaya trip from Bangkok is the Classic Kameo Hotel . It is near the historical park with an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and even a gym!

Book an Ayutthaya tour in Bangkok- This is one of the most recommended tours from Bangkok to Ayutthaya . You will explore 4 temples, have lunch, and enjoy a comfortable ride to and from Bangkok. With no planning on your part!

Read more about a trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya!

Death Railway Tour from Bangkok & Kanchanaburi Tour from Bangkok

Another one of the very best day trips from Bangkok is to the Death Railway and River Kwa i . You can combine touring the Death Railway and a Bangkok to River Kwai day trip , as they are both very close together.

This historical Death Railway line was harshly built during WWII and stretches from Bangkok to Myanmar. It is infamous for its for the high number of lives lost during the challenging construction.

How to get to Death Railway: Getting to the Death Railway from Bangkok by car takes about 2-3 hours depending on traffic. It is best to leave early in the morning to make the most of your day. You can also take the train for a day trip to Kanchanaburi station from Bangkok.

You can also book a private tour bus: Book a day tour to the Death Valley here.

What to do at the Death Railway

The starting point for the tour is Kanchanaburi . Start at the JEATH war museum to gain a better insight into the history of the railway and the poor prisoners of war who were forced to construct it.

Then explore the bridge over the Kawi Riber . You can’t miss it, as it is a very important landmark along the Death Railway. As you walk along there are signs to learn more about its importance.

Then board the train to embark on the scenic ride along the railway. You cannot miss paying your respects at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

Where to eat: There are several floating restaurants along the River Kwai . Enjoy a traditional Thai meal with a beautiful view of the river.

Where to Stay: The Floathouse River Kawi is an eco-friendly floating resort for luxurious stays.

Where to go outskirt Bangkok?

Can you do a day trip from bangkok to pattaya, is it worth going to bangkok for a day, how many days is ideal in bangkok, hua hin day trips from bangkok.

Next up is a one-day trip near Bangkok to Hua Hin , a small beach town. Just like most coastal Thai town, there are stunning beaches, local markets, and a fun nightlife.

How to get to Hua Hin: The most convenient way to get to Hua Hin is by driving. You can also book a private car, for an affordable price. The Journey will take about 2-3 hours. But, Hua Hin also has a train station that connects with Bangkok and usually takes 3-4 hours.

What to do when you get there: The most popular thing to do in Hua Hin is the beach. Spend your day relaxing on a comfy chair shade, rent a paddle board, or take a banana boat ride down the shore.

After you get your beach fix get to the Cicada Market. This local market is always filled with the best vendors selling souvenirs and freshly prepared food.

Another site to visit in Hua Chin is the Way Huay Mongkol Temple with a giant statue of Laung Phot Thuad. Or head to the beautiful palace made out of teakwood, the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace .

Where to eat: Two of the best places to get in Hua Hin are the night market and the Chatchai market . They both offer local dishes, grilled meats, and desserts!

Where to Stay: The Hilton Has Hin Resort is the best Hotel in Hua Hin, and it is right on the beach.

Book a private transfer from Bangkok to Hua Hin, Thailand.

Erawan Waterfalls from Bangkok

Another Bangkok 1 day trip is to the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls, a beautiful seven-tiered waterfall inside a lush forest with natural pools and clear turquoise waters. This is one of the best short trips from Bangkok to take when you have been inside the concrete jungle for too long.

How to get to the Waterfalls: To get to the Erawan waterfalls take a bus from the Southern bus stop in Bangkok, Rai Tai Mai to Kanchanaburi town. Then you can take a baht bus or taxi to the National Park where the waterfalls are located. Or rent a car and drive the 2-3 hour trip yourself, or book a private small tour from Bangkok to Erawan.

What to do When you Get There: Once you arrive at the Erawan National Park you will start your hike exploring each and every one of 7 tiers of cascading falls . Each tier has unique pools and views. The higher you hike up, the fewer people there are. Once you make it to the top of the waterfall you can relax, swim, or take in the beautiful views.

What to Eat: There are several food courts inside the National Park and a small restaurant you will see near the entrance. They serve simple plates and Thai food. You can always pack a lunch before you leave for your day trip to enjoy on top of the waterfall.

Where to Stay: The Pung-Waan Resort is very close to the Erawan National Park with comfy rooms and a swimming pool.

Book a 1-day trip from Bangkok to Erawan National Park.

Pattaya Day Trips from Bangkok

Pattaya gets a bad rap. But in reality, taking a Pattaya day tour from Bangkok is a great idea. There are several stunning beaches, local markets, and world-class shopping centers, with any type of food cuisine you could think of. And yes, there are plenty of places to party until the sun comes up, but that’s not what the real Pattaya is about.

How to get to Pattaya : Ready my how-to guide on traveling from Pattaya to Bangkok. There are step-by-step instructions to make your travel to Pattaya one of the best day trips out of Bangkok. You can also book a tour of Pattaya Bangkok and have a driver take care of your entire trip.

What to do in Pattaya

The first thing to do when you arrive in Pattaya is head straight for the beach! Jotimen Beach is the most laid-back, family-friendly beach. From here you can have any type of beach day you desire. Soak up the sun, relax in the shade, rent a jet ski, or head straight to a beach bar.

After you are done having fun in the sun, the Sanctuary of Truth is worth a visit. This beautiful wooden temple has the most exquisite designs of all the temples in Thailand. Another attraction on your Bangkok Pattaya tour should be the Nong Nooch Tropical Gardens . Here you can watch Thai cultural shows or walk around the perfectly manicured gardens.

Where to eat in Pattaya : Pattaya is a huge town, and there are several different places to eat depending on where you are in the city. Check out this restaurant in Pattaya guide, and find somewhere close to you!

Where to Stay: The Hilton Pattaya is connected to the Central Festival Pattaya Mall and is the perfect location if you wanted to spend a night or two exploring the nightlife.

You may also like this Pattaya High Guide , to help you grab some herb while you are in town!

Koh Larn Beach Day Trip from Bangkok

One of the easiest trips in Bangkok to take for an island escape is Koh Larn . This small island is right off the coast of Pattaya. You will first need to go to Pattaya, then head to Bali Hai Pier. The boats leave every hour on the hour, and it only costs 30 Baht to ride.

What to do: The island of Koh Larn is super small, but there are still 6 beaches in Koh Larn to explore. They all have their unique characteristics, but what the beaches in Koh Larn have in common is the crystal clear waters!

Where to Eat: For a fresh lunch with a view you need to go to Meaharak Cafe . They serve fresh salads, seafood, and even burgers. You can also order lunch right on the beach in the chairs if you want to be a hermit for the day. This is also very recommended.

Where to Stay: The last ferry leaves from Koh Larn at 6 pm to head back to Pattaya. Check out these beautiful beachside hotels in Koh Larn, if you wanted to turn your day trip from Bangkok into an overnight stay.

Rose Garden Thai Village or the Sun Sampran

If you are looking for Bangkok day trips and things to do the Rose Garden Thai Village would be perfect. This beautiful garden town is located in the Same Songkhram providence.

Visiting here gives you a glimpse into traditional Thai village life . Showcasing Thai crafts, traditions, and even dance performances. You can also tie in a trip to the Amphawa Floating Market on the Mae Along River.

How to Get There: The best way to reach the Rose Garden Thai Village from Bangkok is by car or a private tour. There are no train stations in the area. A car ride is only one hour, making the Rose Gardens a perfect day trip out of Bangkok!

What to do: The first thing to do when you get to the Rose Garden is to take a stroll around the recreational center. Keep your eye out for the various types of roses, and other colorful flowers.

Almost every day at the Village you can see cultural performances of Thai music. After your show, head to the Amphawa Floating Market or the Famous Maeklong Railway Market .

Where to Eat: The Rose Garden Thai Village offers a buffet lunch as a part of the entry ticket. They serve traditional Thai meals with a sweet dessert at the end.

Where To Stay: The RXV Wellness Village , is the best place to relax after your wonderful afternoon in the Thai Gardens!

Khao Yai day trip from Bangkok

Khao Yai National Park tour from Bangkok takes you to explore one of the largest National Parks in all of Thailand. It is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes. Khao Yai is one of the best day trips near Bangkok.

How to get there: To get to Khao Yai you can either take a private car, tour or jump on a bus. The buses operate from Bangkok to Park Chong, the gateway town to Khao Yai. From there you can jump on a tuk-tuk or order a grab to the park. Here is one of the best tours to book to explore Khao Yai Park from Bangkok!

What to do: Once you arrive at the park you will know what to do. Start hiking the trails! Two of the more popular parks are the Haew Suwat Waterfall trail. Hiking this trail will lead you to the famous waterfall featured in the movie, “The Beach”.

The Visitors Center will provide you with all the information you need to nerd out. Along your journey keep an eye out for the wild animals. Elephants, hornbills, deer, and gibbons are the most spotted animals in Khao Yai.

Where to eat: Plenty of street food vendors are set up inside the national park. You will not go hungry!

Where to Stay: The prettiest hotel in Khao Yai is the Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa . This luxurious resort has all the best features to treat yourself on your short day trip.

The Damneon Saduak Market is one of the best day trips from Bangkok, and it takes less than 2 hours to get there. For a jammed-pack day, you can also visit the Maeklong Railway Market and the Amphawa Floating Market all in one day!

How to get there: Jump on a tour from Bangkok, or drive yourself! You will not find any trains, or buses running to Damenon from Bangkok.

What to do: The best way to explore the Damnoen Saduck Floating Market is to ride a long-tail boat around. Doing this allows you fully immerse yourself in the lively ambiance.

Grab the best handmade souvenirs, the cutest clothing, and the freshest fruit and vegetables. There will also be vendors selling lunch dishes like boat noodles and grilled seafood! Do not forget to bargain, it is half of the experience , and bring cash, none of the vendors take cards.

Where to eat: Once you arrive you will see that there is food everywhere. Try the famous boat noodles, or keep it simple with a Pad Thai. Everything you try will be prepared fresh and most likely, right in front of you!

Where to stay: The Coco View Hotel is super close to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and is comfy, clean, and affordable.

Up next for places to visit outside Bangkok is Samui Prakan. This providence just southeast of Bangkok has everything you’re looking for. Beautiful historic sites, museums, and floating markets. Oh, and the beautiful snake slithered around the Wat out in the water is here.

How to get there: The best way to Samui Prakan from Bangkok is the Bangkok Skytrain, public bus, or car. The ride is short and sweet and should take no longer than an hour.

What to do: Once you get the Samui Prakan the real party starts. The first stop should be at the Ancient City, the Muang Born. Here you will find the outdoor museum with replicas of Thailand’s most famous landmarks. Spend a few hours exploring and learning about the Thai culture.

Another hot spot to visit is the Bang Pu Rec Center. This is a seaside park with a long wooden pier perfect for a walk along the Gulf. From here you can either check out the Crocodile Farm or go explore the Paknam Market.

Where to eat: Mae Klong Seafood and Kraben Seafood

Where to stay: The best place to say near Samut Prakan is the Novotel Bangkok Bangna . They have an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and easy access to all the best things to do in Samut Prakan.

Amphawa Floating Market Weekend Trips from Bangkok

Another one of the best day trips from Bangkok is to the Amphawa Floating Market. Plan accordingly because they are only open on the weekends . This floating market in Bangkok is best known for its charming wooden houses with vendors selling local treats from their boats.

How to get there: The only way to get to the Amphawa Floating Market from Thailand is by car or tour. Your journey will take approximately 2 hours. Most tour companies will book the tickets to the market, and arrange your day for you.

What to do: Once you get to the entrance of the floating market, you will feel the atmosphere come to life. Walk slowly along the canal and take inventory of all the different vendors.

Then you will want to take a long-tail boat around the canal to see and engage the market from the water. You can easily knock out seeing Wat Bang Kung after checking out the Amphawa floating market.

And one of the very best things about this beautiful market is the famous Firefly boat tour. The lighting bugs light up the mangrove trees night after night and makes a very romantic atmosphere.

Where to eat: Grab your favorite Thai dishes from the vendors out on the Amphawa Floating Market. This is how they make a living, and the food is always fresh.

Where to stay: The Baan Amphawa Resort & Spa is the most recommended hotel to stay in the area. With a spa, restaurants, and all the luxuries you need for a very comfortable stay.

Koh Si Chang

Koh Si Chang is another one of the tropical islands to visit from Bangkok. Like most islands in Thailand, you will find beautiful beaches, kind locals, and the freshest seafood. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s only a few hours away from Bangkok!

How to get there: The best way to get to Koh Si Chang on a 1-day trip from Bangkok is to go to the Si Racha Pier. Depending on where you are coming from in Bangkok, it will only take about half an hour. There are tour companies that will take you directly there, for a fair price.

From the Racha Pier, a speedboat will take you directly to Koh Si Chang island. The boat ride usually takes about 30-45 minutes, and you will have incredible views along the waterway.

What to do: First things first you will want to rent a motorbike as soon as you get off the ferry. Vendors are waiting eagerly for you! Try not to pay more than 300 baht for a bike. Don’t sweat it if you are not conferable riding bikes, you can easily get around this island using the local transport of Baht buses.

Make sure you hit the Khlong Phlu Waterfall, white sand beaches, and the Slakkok Village.

Where to Eat: Pan & David Restaurant is always serving fresh and yummy Thai food. Save room for dessert they also have fresh cheesecake!

Where to Stay: The Rimtalay Resort Koh-chang is a seaside hotel with reasonable prices and an excellent location.

You may have seen this unique market in Thailand where the train bustles through the track all over insta lately. Traveling here is one of the best day trips by car from Bangkok. Plan your trip around the train schedule to witness this spectacle. Most days the train only runs by four times a day. When booking a private tour, they will set all of this up for you!

Best way to get to the Maeklong Railway Market: To reach this Rail market near Bangkok you have a few different options. You can hire a driver or rent a car to drive yourself. Join in on a day tour, or take a minivan from the Rai Tai Mai Bus terminal to the Samut Songkhram stop.

What to do when you get there: So the main attraction is when the train comes plowing through the tracks. And you best believe that the vendors wait until the last minute to pull their goods in. Once the train is gone, it’s like it never came in the first place, the locals just go back to their everyday life. Enjoy walking around taking in the bustling atmosphere, and grab some souvenirs and snacks.

The railway market is also close to the Amphawa Floating Market if you wanted to fit both attractions in one day.

Where to eat at the Railway Market: This area of Thailand, Samut Songkhram is known for its fresh seafood. The Coffee In Train is a popular place for a pick-me-up coffee or snack!

Stay overnight : The Numsin Hotel is in the Ratchaburi City Center and is close to all the best attractions. Free wifi, car parking, and a restaurant on site to fill up after your big day of exploring.

Bangkok to Koh Kret in 1 Day

Something interesting about Koh Kret is that it is a man-made island that is only about 10 miles (20 Kilometers) away from Bangkok. It’s a popular spot for beach lovers of all cultures.

How to get to Koh Kret From Bangkok: The best way to reach Koh Kret is to take a boat or ferry from the many piers on the Chao Phraya River.

What to do at Koh Kret: Mostly known for its Mon community you can see their distinctive culture and traditions portrayed across this little island. The top tourist attraction is the pottery village. While on Koh Kret explore the many pottery shops to gaze at and admire how intricate these artists are . You will find mostly ceramics, but keep your eyes peeled there are surprises around every corner.

Besides pottery, Koh Kret is also known for their beautiful Wats. The Wat Poremai Yikawat is the island’s main temple with a Buddha that is relaxing. The best way to explore this island is with a bicycle or to walk around. You will be safe as the locals are relaxed and the roads are very scenic.

Where to Eat: Koh Kret is known for their Mon cuisine. You will find many food stalls and small restaurants. You have to try the Kohanom Jean (rice noodles) or the Khao Chae (rice soaked in jasmine water). And then for dessert, you will want Kanom Mor Gaeng, a sweet coconut milk pudding! YUM

Stay overnight at the Cast Away Homestay in Koh Kret. You will receive a free breakfast and all the amenities you need to enjoy your day trip from Bangkok.

Wat Bang, or the Temple of the flying tiger, is a famous Buddhist temple located in the Nakhon Chai Si area of Thailand. It is one of the most popular places for locals and tourists to receive a Sak Yant tattoo!

Getting to Wat Bang Phra: The best way to reach Wat Bang Phra is to drive 50 kilometers west of Bangkok. It is a rural area, and you may have a hard time getting there if you do not have your vehicle.

What to do: You may want to look into Sak Yants so you have an idea of what you are getting yourself into. This type of tattoo can only be done by a skilled Buddha or Ajarn, who uses a long metal rod with a needle on the end. You must pay respects to the Wat’s main Buddha and then make an offering to the monks.

Each and every Sak Yant is special in its own way. They all have different meanings and symbolism. You can pick whichever one you want, or let the monk guide you. This is a special memory that you will have, and see, for the rest of your life!

Where to eat: Check out the popular restaurant the Dusit Terrace , they serve traditional Thai food and you can easily walk a short distance from Wat Bang!

Where to Stay: The beautiful Chakrabongse Villas is the perfect place to stay overnight after you get your traditional Thai tattoo!

Day tours from Bangkok to Wat Bang – When booking this easy tour you will pay for your tattoo, a ride to and from Bangkok, and souvenirs to bring back home with you.

There are so many places to visit on the outskirts of Bangkok. Some of the most popular are the Amphawa Floating Market , Koh Larn , and the Erawan Waterfalls . Public transportation in makes it easy to enjoy the outskirts of Bangkok without much struggle and at an affordable price. Take a look at these 15-day trips from Bangkok and pick one that meets your Bangkok budget trip!

Yes! You can definitely do a Bangkok Pattaya trip in one day. And there are several ways to get from Bangkok to Pattaya . You can hop on a minibus, hire a luxury private ride, take a plane, or rent a car! You could also do the short 2-hour trip if you are an experienced Moto bike rider.

Yes, it is worth going to Bangkok for one day. There is so much to do that you will be wishing you had more than one day in Bangkok. There is a beautiful silent chaos in Bangkok and there is something to do at every hour!

You should plan to spend at least 3-4 days in Bangkok if you want to knock out all the culture, and nightlife, and eat all the traditional Thai dishes. Bangkok is a huge city, with 11 million people locals, so you could easily spend months here and still find new things to explore. But three to four days in Bangkok should be enough to have an amazing, memorial trip with a few excursions from Bangkok thrown in.

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Thailand Trains

Thailand train times & tickets, guide to train travel from bangkok.

Bangkok’s main train station, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, is the terminus for for 4 railway lines (the Southern, Northern, North Eastern and Eastern train lines) making it possible to travel by train directly from Bangkok Hua Lamphong Railway Station to most stations on Thailand’s Railway Network.

• The Southern Line goes from Bangkok south to Hua Hin, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Hat Yai and onto Penang in Malaysia.
• The Northern Line runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via Ayutthaya, Lopburi and Phitsanulok.
• The North Eastern Line goes from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, where the line splits with one section heading East toward Ubon Ratchathani and and the other North towards Nongkhai at the border with Laos.
• The Eastern Line  runs The Eastern line goes to Chachengsao where it splits into two branches, one going to Pattaya and the sea port of Marp Ta Phut, the other to near Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border.

 See below for information about popular train journeys from Bangkok.

Train Tickets from Bangkok

Use the Search Box below to buy your train tickets from Bangkok to destinations across Thailand:

• Destination: Enter your destination by clicking on the drop down list.
• Travel Date : Enter your date of travel.
• Search: Click to Find Tickets.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. People come here to visit the temples and the wonderful pristine mountainous countryside. Chiang Mai is also a lively town at night with great restaurants and an established live music scene.

• Train times Bangkok to Chiang Mai:

Bangkok to Chumphon

Chumphon is the connection point for the ferry to Koh Tao . Chumphon itself has little of interest for tourists, but the ferry service departing from near Chumphon is the best and quickest route to get to Koh Tao which has no airport. You can take an overnight bus to Chumphon to catch the ferry but that is not as comfortable as a sleeper berth on a train.

• Train times Bangkok to Chumphon:

Bangkok to Hat Yai

Hat Yai is the largest city in Southern Thailand where Malaysian tourists often come on holiday and other foreigners stay for a short period of time before travelling either to or from Malaysia. There are four border crossings to Malaysia within 2 hours drive from Hat Yai: Sadao, Padang Besar, Tak Bai and Satun.

• Train times Bangkok to Hat Yai:

Bangkok to Hua Hin

Hua Hin is the ‘beach of Bangkok’, is the same way that Brighton in the UK is to London or the Hamptons in the USA is to New York. Hua Hin is the weekend beach break destination of choice for people in Bangkok. Great beaches and fantastic seafront fish restaurant, in a relaxed setting, make Hua Hin a favourite with local and foreign holiday makers.

• Train times Bangkok to Hua Hin:

Bangkok to Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen is one of the four largest towns in Isan, the north eastern region of Thailand. There are two major tourists attractions in Khon Kaen: Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon temple and Khon Kaen National Museum.

• Train times from Bangkok to Khon Kaen:

Bangkok to Nong Khai 

Nong Khai is a medium sized town on the border with Laos. From Nong Khai train station it is about 2 km to the border and from there a 30 minute drive to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Nong Khai is a great place to spend a night and have dinner on the banks of the majestic Mekong River.

• Train times from Bangkok to Nong Khai:

Bangkok to Penang (Malaysia)

Thailand train services terminate at Padang Besar on the border with Malaysia. There are 14 trains a day from Padang Besar to Butterworth Railway Station (Penang). Tickets for travel from Padang Besar to Penang are available for purchase at the train station.

Train Times from Bangkok to Padang Besar:

Bangkok to Surat Thani

Surat Thani is the connection point for ferry services to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, location of the Full Moon Party. The train is an excellent way to travel done to the islands. Overnight sleeper trains arrive in the morning to connection with joint bus and boat services taking passengers effortlessly to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan in time for lunch.

• Train times Bangkok to Surat Thani:

Bangkok to Trang (for Koh Lipe)

Trang is a great place to visit and sample the excellent and unique cuisine. Trang is also the connection point from the railway network to the Southern Andaman Islands of Koh Mook, Koh Lipe, Koh Kradan and Koh Sukorn. Direct connections are available from Trang Station to Koh Lanta and the other Southern Andaman islands via the nearby Hat Yao Pier.

• Train Times from Bangkok to Trang:

Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani 

Ubon Ratchathani is located in the north east of Thailand and is notable for the many temples in the area, some built during the era of the Khmer Empire.

• Train times from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani:

Bangkok to Udon Thani

Most foreign visitors to Udon Thani come for business or to visit friends or family of friends in the surrounding countryside. Sleeper train is a good way to travel to Udon Thani because you get a chance to sleep before you transfer to a car or bus for the trip to the ‘village’ and because the scenery for the middle section of the journey, between Ayutthaya and Nakhon Ratchasima, is beautiful mountains, lakes and fields.

• Train times from Bangkok to Udon Thani:

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City Guides , Thailand · September 25, 2022

9 Incredible Day Trips from Bangkok Not to Miss

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital city, has so much to offer to every kind of traveler. But if you’ve already seen all the top sights, snapped pics at all the cool Instagram spots , and want to take a break from city life, there’s a whole bunch of fascinating places to visit just outside the city. Here’s our curated list of the ABSOLUTE best day trips from Bangkok!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

The Best Day Trips from Bangkok

If there is one day trip from Bangkok that you simply must do, it is to visit Ayutthaya – a sprawling historic park filled with ancient ruins dating back to the 14th century.

Ayutthaya was the second capital of Siam before being burnt down by the Burmese in 1767. While the fire destroyed all of the wooden palaces, many of the ancient structures and temples built from brick and stone still stand today. And as a result, Ayutthaya is not only one of Thailand’s most fascinating landmarks but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

The Ayutthaya Historical Park features nine famous temples, and while you won’t have enough time to see all of them on a day trip from Bangkok excursion, there are a couple that you simply cannot miss. Among the most notable is Wat Phra Mahathat , which features a buddha face trapped in an ancient banyan tree. Other must-visit sights include Wat Ratchaburana , Wat Phra Si Sanphet , and Wat Chaiwatthanaram . 

Ayutthaya is roughly 1-hour drive from Bangkok city. The easiest way to visit is by hiring a private driver for the day or joining a full-day historical temple tour . Alternatively, you can also tackle the 2-hour train journey from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to get there. Just know that the park is huge and the temples are quite spread out. Bicycle rentals are plentiful, and it’s a fun way to explore the park at your leisure. 

Erawan Museum

Erawan Museum , not to be confused with Erawan Falls, is one of the easiest Bangkok day trips.

Located roughly one hour south of the capital in Samut Prakan , Erawan Museum is best known for its enormous 3-headed elephant sculpture sitting on top of an ornate pink temple. While the temple is impressive from the outside, it’s really what lies within its walls that makes it a must-visit place.  

Inside the temple, you’ll find beautifully decorated staircases featuring dragon motifs, mythical statues, and a stunning colorful glass-stained roof representing earth, fire, wind, and water. Take the elevator up to the elephant’s body, where you’ll find a blue worship room lined with Buddha statues. And underneath the temple, there’s an interesting exhibition filled with ancient artifacts and porcelain. 

The grounds also feature neatly-kept gardens full of lush plant life, waterfalls, and colorful elephant statues that trumpet when you walk underneath them. There’s also a souvenir store and an outdoor restaurant where you can sit back and relax. 

While Erawan Museum is a hidden gem, it’s undeniably one of Bangkok’s most Instagrammable attractions . Remember to dress appropriately, covering your knees and shoulders when visiting. Entry to the museum is quite expensive (400 baht). So, if you want to save some money, I recommend buying an entry ticket online before you go. It works out much cheaper and also includes entry to the Ancient City. To get to Erawan Museum, take the green BTS line to Chang Erawan Station and then a Grab Taxi.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

No Bangkok itinerary would be complete without checking out its cool floating markets. And Damnoen Saduak is among the most famous, making it a must-do Bangkok day trip. 

Located roughly 1.5 hours southwest of the city, Damnoen Saduak is a thriving hive full of sights and sounds. You’ll cruise through an intricate maze of canals on a traditional long-tail boat when visiting here. Along the waterway, dozens of stalls sell everything from souvenirs and clothing to arts and crafts. The main area also has a great selection of local Thai food like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and coconut ice cream. The best part is that you don’t even need to get out of your boat to enjoy some grub! 

While Damnoen Saduak is very tourist-oriented today, a visit here provides a good glimpse into the past with plenty of photo ops. However, it’s important to know that Damnoen Saduak is often touted as a tourist trap, so it’s important to be more cautious when visiting. 

Unless you’re joining a guided tour , know that you’ll need to pay an additional fee to take a boat to the market. Prices vary depending on the pier you get dropped off at, but you really shouldn’t be paying more than  500 baht per person . Anything more than that is a rip-off. 

Another thing to know is that the boatmen will stop at literally all the souvenir stalls to get you to buy something. If you want to buy something, make sure to haggle as prices are hugely inflated here.

Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market , more commonly known as just the Bangkok Train Market , is another great excursion from Bangkok not to miss.

Located less than 1 hour’s drive from the city, Maeklong is a cool market set up along a railway track. Dozens of local vendors sell various products from fruit and veg to freshly caught fish, meat and even souvenirs along the narrow railway track. 

However, what makes really makes Maeklong such a unique attraction is that every time the train approaches, vendors need to pick up and move their goods off the tracks. Once the train passes, vendors place all the goods back. It’s quite a spectacle. Everything happens rather quickly, and it’s amazing how quickly vendors return their goods to their previous positions.

Maeklong is quite a popular tourist attraction outside Bangkok, so joining an organized day trip is quite easy. Alternatively, you can also arrange a private driver there and create your itinerary for the day. The market is open from 6 am to 6 pm , but timing your visit is key, as the train only comes at 8.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm and 5.40 pm . If you can, stick around until the train returns (30 minutes after arrival) for even more photo ops. 

Recommended by PlacesofJuma.

If you’re looking for an unusual day trip from Bangkok, a really great destination is the small town of  Lopburi , also known as the City of Monkeys . This place is easily reached by train, private charter , or, more conveniently, with a guided tour directly from Bangkok.

Lopburi is well-known for the Prang Sam Yod temple , where thousands of monkeys live. During a tour, you can discover numerous playful monkeys that are up to mischief around the temple. Many tourists feed the macaques, but this is not really recommended. When visiting, you should also hide all your valuables well. Even glasses can be interesting for monkeys.

As a special feature, there is even a big monkey festival once a year. During this celebration, locals build a massive buffet in honor of the many macaques – a unique spectacle one can hardly imagine.

But there is more in Lopburi. You should definitely visit the historic old town, where there are no monkeys, but other fascinating temples off the typical tourist routes. Another great stop is the market, where you can taste all kinds of Thai cuisine. 

Koh Kret Island

Recommended by Allan from Live Less Ordinary.

Located just north of Bangkok, Koh Kret is a small island in the Chao Phraya River , best known for its pottery villages and unique Burmese Mon heritage. Traditions were introduced by refugees trading in terracotta-ware jugs and bowls, and to this day, the old teak homes of the island continues to house the old kilns.

Koh Kret is a relatively small island easily explored on foot, with main attractions close to the arrival pier. For the more adventurous, rent a bicycle and follow the waymarked circular path covering the wider attractions. The island is surprisingly peaceful, serene, and green, given its proximity to big city life. 

Weekdays are quieter on Koh Kret when many of the eateries and  Thai street food  stalls close. Many museum exhibits and the local Chit brewery only open on the weekends too.

To get to Koh Kret, take a taxi from central Bangkok to the Koh Kret Pier is roughly 200 Baht. But you can find cheaper taxis from either Bang Sue MRT or the Nonthaburi Pier . 

Recommended by Vidyut from Triplyzer.

Located by the Gulf of Thailand , Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. 

You can directly  get from Suvarnabhumi airport to Pattaya by bus , catch a bus from Mo Chit , or arrange a private driver to take you. There are also some great guided tours on offer that you can book. The 150 km distance takes just under 3 hours.

Your one perfect day in Pattaya must include Pattaya Beach , Sanctuary of Truth , Nong Nooch Tropical Garden , and the walking street.

Start with the Sanctuary of Truth , a beautiful wooden monument situated near the ocean focusing on the importance of moral values. Then head to the lively Pattaya beach , a favorite spot for the sunseekers. If you like water sports, you can also enjoy activities such as jet skiing and a banana boat ride here.

Nong Nooch is a huge garden covering an area of 200 hectares. It features manicured gardens and a variety of tropical plants – including a wide variety of orchids. Take a stroll on the lively walking street , dotted with lots of eateries, bars, and entertainment options – the perfect place to wrap your day in Pattaya.

Kanchanaburi

Recommended by Sarah, A Social Nomad.

Kanchanaburi is just two hours from Thailand’s capital, making it a perfect day trip from Bangkok. 

Many visitors visit Kanchanaburi specifically to see the World War II sites, like  Hellfire Pass , the Commonwealth Graveyard , and the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai . The train line from Bangkok’s Thonburi station to the current end of the “ Death Railway ” that once ran through Burma, now Myanmar. All day tours from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi will visit the bridge. 

Several museums here also give immense detail on the railway, which was built by slave laborers and allied prisoners of war. There are also several National Parks close to Kanchanaburi – and it’s easy to visit Erawan National Park on a day trip to Kanchanaburi – where you can chase waterfalls, explore caves, and dip into glorious turquoise pools. 

Recommended by Paul from Paulmarina .

A real off-beat Bangkok day trip away from the tourist crowds is to visit the beautiful province of Ang Thong , located to the north of Bangkok. It’s known as the golden rice basin of Thailand because the region is the largest rice producer in Thailand. 

The  Ang Thong Buddhas  and Temples are the main attraction in this very rural area of the country . The largest Buddha sits right between vibrant green rice fields and the Wat Muang temple . This temple is also known as the crystal temple. Beautiful mirrors decorate the inner rooms, creating a special ambiance and light. The garden area is the Buddhist version of hell, with tall and life-sized figurines telling Buddhist mythology. 

One can visit another 200 temples in the area, but the most unique sanctuary is the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. He is dressed with a massive bright orange tunica, and the toes are decorated with pieces of gold paper by devotees. The drive from Bangkok to Ang Thong takes about 1.5 hrs, making it a perfect day trip to learn more about the rural areas of Thailand.

Other Popular Day Tours from Bangkok

Bangkok day trips in conclusion .

Whether you’re into ancient temples, floating markets, beautiful beaches, or off-beat places, there are a whole host of awesome places to visit just a short journey away from the capital. I hope this list helps you find the perfect day trip from Bangkok for your visit!

Well, that’s all I have on the best places to visit near Bangkok for now! If I’ve missed any must-visit attractions outside Bangkok City, let me know in the comments below so that I can add them to my Bangkok excursions bucket list!

Don’t forget to pin this post on the best Bangkok day trips to your favorite Thailand travel board! 

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11 Best Day Trips from Bangkok to Escape the Crowds

Through my 2 month long backpacking trip in Thailand, I stayed in Bangkok for a full week. It became a place for me to slow down and relax after the non stop travel around the southern parts of the country. So I didn’t do a lot here: explored a 24 hour Bangkok itinerary with the TAGTHAi Pass , ate a lot and also explored some of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Bangkok was anyway too fast for my liking so the only way to escape the bustling streets of the city would be by embarking on unforgettable day trips from Bangkok. This guide to the best day trips from Bangkok (as recommended by fellow travel bloggers) will unveil the top destinations that promise to elevate your travel experience beyond the urban landscape of Thailand’s capital city.

From ancient ruins steeped in history to lush national parks teeming with wildlife, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry. By going on day trips from Bangkok, you get to discover the timeless allure of Ayutthaya, the once majestic capital of the Kingdom of Siam, or immerse yourself in the serenity of Khao Yai National Park, home to verdant landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and exotic wildlife. There is also the floating market of Damnoen Saduak offering a glimpse into traditional Thai life, and a lot of other destinations in this “best day trips from Bangkok” guide.

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Mae Klong Railway Market (Hoop Rom Market)

Mae Klong Railway Market, located in Samut Songkhram Province, is renowned for its unique feature – a bustling marketplace set directly on active train tracks. Vendors skillfully arrange their stalls along the rails, swiftly retracting them and clearing their stalls to make way for the passing train, just moments before the train arrives – several times a day, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok!

The market is also nicknamed “Talat Hoop Rom” or the “Umbrella Pulldown Market,” reflecting the swift folding of umbrellas that shield vendors’ wares. It’s an exhilarating experience to see everything happening in real time. Make sure to hold on tight as the train passes by, as it can get quite close to the shops and stalls.

Riding the train through the Maeklong Railway Market is another unique activity you can enjoy. You can board one of the commuter trains running on the Mae Klong line and have an interesting journey into the market as well. Trains to Maeklong leave from Wongwian Yai Train Station and cost only about 20 THB. They also run very slow so you can get a full experience of the market.

From fresh seafood to local produce like tropical fruits and handicrafts, spices and herbs, and local snacks – Mae Klong is also a great place to go souvenir shopping in Thailand . The market offers an overall vibrant, sensory experience making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

👉Check out this combined Mae Klong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour !

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

By Lavina of Continet Hop

100 km southwest of Bangkok is the Floating Market at Damnoen Saduak. Colourful boats bringing fresh produce and other things are a hallmark of this famous market. Visitors can enjoy the colourful environment, eat local cuisine, and buy unique goods from the canalside boats and kiosks. Meeting nice sellers, eating authentic Thai street cuisine, and taking gorgeous photos make it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Buses and vans leave from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal for Damnoen Saduak. You can take a short taxi ride to get to the market from there. It’s a great day trip because it only takes two hours. 

It’s okay if you don’t speak the language. Just join a tour group . Most include round-trip transportation and a market guide. Visiting Damnoen Saduak is a highlight of your  1 month in Thailand .

Between 7 and 9 AM is the best time to go before all the other people show up and it gets too hot. The light is also great for taking pictures because it lets you see all the bright colours and exciting scenes in the market.

Both independent trips and tour groups have their pros and cons. For solo travellers , these trips give you more freedom to go at your own speed. People who are short on time or who would rather have a more planned experience, on the other hand, may find a tour group useful and easy.

👉Check out this Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour !

Alternatively, you can also consider the Amphawa Floating Market along with Mae Klong.

Kanchanaburi

By Sarah of A Social Nomad

Bangkok to Kanchanaburi  is just a two-hour trip which makes it a great option for a Bangkok day trip . The city is most famous in recent history for being home to the World War II Death Railway and the bridge made famous in the book and movie, the Bridge over the River Kwai.

It certainly is one of the best day trips from Bangkok – there are many WWII sites here to explore, and all day trips to Kanchanaburi will visit the bridge, and the Death Railway Museum is also well worth a visit. Opt for a specialist tour and you’ll get a ride on the train over the bridge on the River Kwai Bangkok, and up towards Hellfire Pass.

Alternatively, heading towards the natural parts of the province is also a stunning experience. Erawan National Park is a glorious place to explore, with waterfalls and lovely deep pools to cool off in, as part of the Kanchanaburi day trip from Bangkok.

While you’re doing the Kanchanaburi Bangkok trip, be sure to try one of the local foodie specialities – Gaeng Paa Pla Khang – this curry dish of local fish and vegetables contains lots of chillies in a curry paste with lemongrass. The Chukkadon Market just south of the center is a great place to eat this and to try other local Thai dishes from Kanchanaburi.

👉Check out this Erawan National Park& Death Railway Kanchanaburi Tour

The Ancient City (Mueang Boran)

By Sara and Ryan of Across Every Border

If you’re looking for an easy-to-reach day trip from Bangkok, why not check out the Ancient City of Samut Prakan? You may not have heard of it before, but you’ve definitely seen the pictures! With a name like the Ancient City, it sounds like it’s going to be a beautiful conglomerate of historical buildings. Well actually, it’s more of a museum or theme park experience. 

The Ancient City in Samut Prakan, or Mueang Boran, as it is locally known, features a collection of over 100 famous Thai temples and monument replicas from around the country – with a few original designs chucked into it! Therefore, if you’re passing through Thailand for a short time, the Ancient City is a great way to get your temple fix without even leaving the city.

The Ancient City is one of the best day trips from Bangkok and reaching it is incredibly easy. It is located on the very outskirts of southern Bangkok. Just hop on the green Sukhumvit metro line from Asok station and ride it southbound for 45 minutes until you reach Phraek Sa station.

From Phraek Sa station, if you have a good amount of spare time, you can walk for 1.5 hours to the front gate. Alternatively, call a Grab taxi which will have you at the gate to the Ancient City within 10 minutes for only a few dollars.

Entrance will set you back 700 baht for adults and 350 baht for children. But the price includes a free bike for you to navigate the park (electric golf buggies are an optional extra).

👉Check out this Ancient City + Erawan Museum Private Guided tour

By Marya of The Beau Traveler

Looking for a beach getaway near Bangkok? Along with Pattaya, Hua Hin is one of the best day trips from Bangkok if you’re looking for beach destinations near the capital city. 

Located around 200 kilometres from Bangkok, you can reach Hua Hin by bus or train. The bus trip from Bangkok to Hua Hin will take approximately 3 hours, while the train journey may take a little over 4 hours in total. On top of the scenic train journey, Hua Hin train station is also one of the best landmarks in the city – making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok by train!

Hua Hin may not be the best destination for a beach getaway in Thailand, but it’s a perfect place to visit if you have a short time in the country and still want to spend a day relaxing on a white-sand beach near Bangkok. But if you’re looking for a beach destination to visit after your Bangkok trip, Koh Chang might be more up your alley!

If you want to explore the city beyond the beach, the best time to visit Hua Hin is around January or February. During this time of the year, the perfect weather is suitable for exploring some of the best attractions in Hua Hin, like Wat Amparam or Phraya Nakhon Cave.

If you are travelling to Hua Hin  around Chinese New Year, you can also enjoy the annual celebration at Phonkingpet Public Park in Hua Hin to experience the festivity. 

Whether you go on a DIY trip or join a tour, a day trip to Hua Hin from Bangkok is doable. However, I’d recommend staying in the city for a couple of days to make the most of your stay in the city! 

👉Check out the best Hua Hin activities

Sanctuary Of Truth, Pattaya

By Karen of Forever Karen

In contrast to the historic Thai temples in Bangkok, the Sanctuary of Truth is a relatively new build in Pattaya. It sits on the Gulf of Thailand with beautiful ocean views, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok by car.

The 144 km journey to Pattaya takes under two hours on the Bangkok−Ban Chang Motorway. You can go by taxi or book a tour. If you choose the latter, your excursion may include visiting Pattaya’s floating market. However, going by taxi gives you unlimited time to enjoy the grounds.

The Sanctuary of Truth is a popular attraction for guests arriving by cruise ship to the  port of Laem Chabang.  From the port, the trip is much shorter, at 20 km.

The structure, leaning more towards a museum, is the brainchild of businessman Lek Viriyaphant. He started the museum in 1981, with each piece carved by hand. Amazingly, the pieces are assembled without the use of metal nails.

While Viriyaphant died in 2000, his work is ongoing, and visitors must wear hard hats to tour the grounds. You can tour a carving hut, feed an elephant (but please don’t ride them), enjoy a petting zoo, and admire the intricate artwork in the temple, making it one of the best day trips out of Bangkok.

Inside the museum, the carvings represent earth, wind, water, and fire. Three types of local woods are used, with a noticeable colour difference. The Sanctuary’s concept is based on the seven truths of life. You’ll find each one documented inside the structure, including “What is the purpose of life?”

👉Check out this Sanctuary of Truth and Pattaya City tour

Alternatively , you can also club Sanctuary of Truth and Nong Nooch Botanical Garden together

Nong Nooch Botanical Garden

By Leslie of Backpackers Thailand

Nong Nooch Botanical Garden is in the world’s top ten best gardens, the largest garden in Southeast Asia, and one of the best day trips from Bangkok. The 600-acre territory consists of many thematic sections: Garden in the Sky, French Garden, Italian Garden, Butterfly Hill, Bonsai Garden, European Garden, Orchid Garden, and many more gardens. The garden has beautiful nature close to Bangkok.

There’s also a vast collection of live-looking animal and dinosaur statues. The detailing is so precise, the dinosaurs look as if they just stepped out of Jurassic Park!

The territory of the park is enormous, but luckily, there is a sightseeing bus circling around, which you can hop on and travel to the remote Orchid Garden. Most of the gardens are open-air, with little shade to hide from the sun and the heat, so the best time to visit is during the colder months (November to February).

The garden also offers elephant shows, which we don’t recommend visiting because of the unethical treatment of the animals. Other than that, the Nong Nooch Garden plant collection should be on every traveller’s must-visit itinerary.

Nong Nooch Garden is just two hours from Bangkok (166 km), making it also one of the best road trips from Bangkok. The fastest way to reach it on your own is by taking a bus from  Bangkok to Pattaya  and then getting a Grab directly to the garden. There are also many organized day trip tours from Bangkok, with prices ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 Baht.

👉Check out this Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, Sanctuary of Truth + 3 other stops tour

Taling Chan Floating Market

By Jill of Jill On A Journey

While there are several floating markets around Bangkok and some of them have turned into unpleasant tourist traps, Taling Chan Floating Market is a small but local floating market to enjoy, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

There are just a handful of boats from which local vendors sell food, fruit and souvenirs. As a visitor, you’re not on a boat but you can walk along the boats on a wooden boardwalk. There’s also a wooden platform with some tables on the water where you can enjoy your food. This day trip near Bangkok is best for trying local specialities such as coconut pancakes or sipping a cold coconut while watching the hustle and bustle.

That makes it a nice alternative to crowded, over-touristy floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Bangkok where they try to make you pay 5000 Baht for a short boat ride.

Be aware that around Taling Chan Floating Market there are also some people trying to sell you an overpriced boat ride. Just skip these and enjoy the market on foot. There’s no entrance fee, so it’s a great day trip from Bangkok, especially when you’re  backpacking in Thailand  on a budget.

The market is just 12 kilometres from Bangkok. So you can reach Taling Chan Floating Market by local bus no. 79 from Khao San Road in around half an hour, making it the best short trip from Bangkok. It’s open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

👉Check out this Taling Chan and Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Markets tour

Wat Sam Phran (Dragon Temple)

By Trisha of Try Wandering More

Wat Sam Phran is a tall, 17-story, pink-coloured Buddhist temple with a dragon snaking around it—a must-visit on your  trip to Thailand . While it looks awe-inspiring and mystical from afar, going up to the temple is a cool experience.

This is one of the best day trips from Bangkok because you have to walk to the top through a tunnel that goes through the belly of the beast. When you reach the top, you can see the dragon’s head up close and enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding area, which is covered with greenery. Do not forget to visit the entire temple complex, which has some other smaller temples. You’ll need at least one to two hours to see this place, depending on how much you’d like to see.

The best time to do this day trip near Bangkok is early in the morning or late in the evening, as it won’t be scorching. Not many people come here so it’s never very crowded. The timings of the temple are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry to the temple is free, but donations are accepted.

Dragon Temple is one of the best day tours from Bangkok. It is located about 40 kilometres from Bangkok. The best way to get there is to take a Grab or Taxi from Bang Wa BTS on the Silom Line or Lak Song MRT on the Blue Line, as these stations are closest to the temple, and you’ll avoid Bangkok traffic. Otherwise, you can also take a bus (route 84) from either of the stations mentioned above to Sam Phran and then a Grab taxi for the last 4 km to the entrance of the temple.

👉Check out this Dragon Temple, Roots Temple and Amphawa Floating Market tour

By Paul of Paulmarina

Ayutthaya is the former capital of the former kingdom of Siam, which is just under an hour away from the current capital city, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok. At its peak during the Renaissance, it had over 1 million inhabitants and a flourishing economy, before it was destroyed by the Burmese army in the 18th century. 

What’s left today are ruined temple structures and still active temples, where Buddhist devotes come to visit from far away. One such temple is the great Wat Phanan Choeng, where you can see the giant golden Buddha statue, an important highlight of the Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok. The  Ayutthaya temple ruins  are known as wat mahathat and this is where you get to see the famous Buddha head surrounded by tree roots. 

Most places are scattered away, but there is also a guided tour to explore the ruins on a bicycle . I also recommend getting a private guide with a car for this day trip outside Bangkok. That way, your guide will take you to all the different temples and ruins and explain the history and general cultural etiquette of each place. A private guide is better because they can adjust an itinerary to your liking.

The day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is super popular among tourists and local pilgrimage devotes, and therefore I suggest visiting during the earlier morning hours, as it’s much cooler and not all that busy.

👉Check out this Ayutthaya Ancient Ruins + Ayothaya Floating Market tour

Khao Yai National Park

By Catherine of Nomadicated

Even though Khao Yai National Park Bangkok is Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s not that touristy compared to other attractions, especially on weekdays. For this Khao Yai day trip from Bangkok, you need to travel roughly 135 km from the city one way. So it’s not one of the closest day trips outside Bangkok, but it’s worth the trek for the waterfalls and the contrast to skyscraper city life, making it one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

Sprawling over an impressive area of more than 2,000 square kilometres, Khao Yai has some impressive wildlife, like elephants, sun bears, and barking deer. Your chances of encountering mammals are rare, so most go for the waterfalls and dense tropical forest hikes.

Hiking is big, with many trails throughout the park. But the places you can’t miss are the Haew Narok and Haew Suwat Waterfalls. The latter was famously featured in the movie “The Beach.” There are many more places to visit within the national park so a customizable private Khao Yai tour would be best if you have the budget.

As with much of Thailand, come visit in the cool season from November to February, for non-rainy days and pleasant enough weather for hiking.

The Khao Yai National Park day trip from Bangkok is about a 2.5-hour drive if you have your own transportation. When using public transportation, start by catching a  train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya . Next, switch to another train to reach Pak Chong, then hire a driver or rent a motorbike. Public transportation can be complicated. For a stress-free experience, I’d get a rental car instead of joining a tour, so you still have flexibility.

👉Check out this Khao Yai Hiking and Waterfall tour

Best Day Trips from Bangkok – FAQs

What city near bangkok is worth visiting.

If you are thinking of where to travel near Bangkok, one city near Bangkok worth visiting is Ayutthaya. This day trips from Bangkok blog also recommends another option which is a one day trip from Bangkok to Pattaya.

Where should you go from Bangkok?

For weekend trips from Bangkok, there are numerous destinations you can explore, depending on your interests and preferences. One of these is Chiang Mai for its culture, temples, landscapes, trekking and hill tribe villages.

Where is best to go after Bangkok?

After Bangkok, I headed east towards Trat Province and took a ferry to visit Koh Chang. It is definitely one of the best places to go after Bangkok. The journey takes about 7 hours. You can leave early morning in a bus and reach Koh chang by noon.

Where can I go by train from Bangkok?

From Bangkok, there are several interesting destinations you can reach by train. These include Surat Thani (I did the Surat Thani to Bangkok train journey), Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya and Hua Hin.

Is Bangkok worth visiting?

Yes, Bangkok is worth visiting. Bangkok has vibrant street life (Khao San Road for example), important cultural landmarks like its many temples such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, and a dynamic culinary scene. From savouring mouthwatering street food delicacies to cruising along the Chao Phraya River, or even indulging in the modern shopping districts, there is much to do here.

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A twenty-something solo adventurer, Avantika finds comfort in learning about various cultures, its people and listening to age-old folk tales. When not on the road, she can be found cuddled up with her dog in her room, with a book in her hand.

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11 Best Day Trips From Bangkok – Must Visit Sights and Activities

Explore the best day trips from Bangkok for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The bustling streets of Bangkok are fun because there is always something to do. Scattered with cultural sites, loads of food, a lively nightlife scene, and loads of glitzy shopping malls, there’s just so many things to do in Bangkok.

But the traffic, heat and constantly being alert for scooters (sometimes even on the sidewalk) and the overall chaos often feels stressful. And you may even wonder ‘is Bangkok worth visiting’. So if you’re planning to spend 3 days in Bangkok and want to have a balanced Bangkok itinerary, then you should consider doing one of these best day trips from Bangkok covered in this article.

Best Day Trips From Bangkok

Our top 3 day trips recommendations, how many days to spend in bangkok, 1. kanchanaburi highlights, 2. floating markets and maeklong railway, 3. ayutthaya day trip from bangkok, 4. khao yai nature tour 1-2-3 day, 5. hua hin – caves + lunch on tropical beach, 6. koh larn and pattaya – full day tour, 7. safari world, 8. pattaya tour + instagram elephant cafe, 9. elephant sanctuary + erawan waterfall, 10. red lotus pond+thonburi market, 11. bangkok midnight food tour by tuk tuk, what are day trips from bangkok, how much do day trips from bangkok cost.

Just outside the City there’s a whole list of interesting things to do. From floating markets, ancient cities, national parks, waterfalls, scenic train rides, and the list goes on.

A 3 day Bangkok itinerary would allow enough time to see what the city has to offer: visit the temples, go to a mall, try the food and experience the nightlife. And then, do a day trip from Bangkok before all the stress from this chaotic city builds up.

No time to read the entire article? No problem. Here are our top 3 favorite recommendations. Whichever you choose, we can guarantee it will be a memorable experience of your time in Thailand.

Kanchanaburi Highlights (River Kwai) ✔️ Scenic Train Ride ✔️ Tourist Favorite

Floating Market & Maeklong Railway ✔️ Famous Floating Market ✔️ Train passing through Market

Ayutthaya Day Trip ✔️ Ancient City Ruins ✔️ Best day trip

Best day trips from Bangkok

The amount of days you spend in Bangkok will depend entirely on what exactly you want to see and do.

Personally, we would say that just to cover the most famous tourist spots in Bangkok, a rushed 1 day or more reasonable 2 days would be enough. 1 full day would allow you to cover the best things to do in Bangkok: The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Saket and maybe go to a rooftop bar and then to an evening food tour in Chinatown Bangkok .

Then if you’re planning to follow any of these best day trips from Bangkok in this guide, add an extra day for each activity.

Top 10 Best Day Trips From Bangkok

Below is a list of the best day trips from Bangkok. We’ve included a broad selection of day trips from Bangkok from floating markets, ancient cities, national parks, seeing and interacting with elephants and snorkeling tours.

Below is a comparison table with prices for the ‘join in’ and ‘private tour’ options.

⭐️ RATING : 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 12 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

No visit to Bangkok is complete without experiencing the beauty of Kanchanaburi and learning the story behind the River Kwai bridge also known as the Death Railway.

Not only will you get to ride the slow-moving train over the river and along the ridge of huge lime-stone mountains offering exceptional scenes, but also you’ll ride a boat along the river.

“ A tour not to be missed! The Kanchanaburi trip is now one of my favourite activities in Thailand. I always wanted to go to the Bridge on the River Kwai for its historical relevance”

Jenny (Read more reviews)

This is one of the best day trips from Bangkok.

It’s a full day of learning, creating memories, and the train ride is an absolute wonder delivering epic scenes of river Kwai and a backdrop of daunting limestone cliffs.

Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts .

⭐️ RATING : 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 11 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

Maeklong Railway is that train passing through a market unfolding to let it through. It’s possibly the most unmissable experience in Bangkok.

But on this day trip from Bangkok, you’ll also get the chance to visit one of those famous floating markets. Enjoy floating through the canal and maybe buy a couple of souvenirs and try some really good Thai food along the way.

“Our guide was knowledgeable, and the entire day was well-planned. Loved exploring the vibrant markets, trying delicious local treats, and cruising along the picturesque canals”

Maryanne (Read more reviews)

With this tour you get the option to choose between Amphawa Floating Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Maeklong Railway is included regardless of which floating market is chosen.

Just keep in mind that Amphawa Floating Market is only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

⭐️ RATING : 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 10 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

Visiting the ancient city of Ayutthaya makes for a great day trip from Bangkok. Although many say ruins, don’t expect to just see a pile of rubble. Many of the larger buildings are mostly intact and you’ll also get the chance to walk inside the temples and through the sites.

“ I was a UK person participating in a mixed Asian group. The tour was well organised and informative and I was surprised we managed to cover so many sites in one day “

Chris (Read more reviews)

 What makes Ayutthaya even more special is the overgrown routes of Banyan trees completely covering certain parts of the temples almost as if they’re holding them in place.

⭐️ RATING : 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 12 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

Ditch the flip-flops. You’ll need a pair of good shoes for this one. This tour transports you to the lush landscapes of Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Choose from 1 day, 2 day, or 3 day tours.

Just doing the 1 day tour is pretty amazing. The friendly tour guide stops at the best places for day 1. This day is a mix of waterfalls, trails through Khao Yai and the lush jungle. End the day at Pa Deo Die cliff and soak in the sweeping views and lush greenery.

“Visited Khao Yai and it was amazing!! Not only that, we were lucky to have met our kind driver (Mr Sak) that accompanied us to every destination and even allowed us to alter the itinerary!!”

Angela (Read more reviews)

⭐️ RATING : 4.3 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 11 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

If you want to explore Thailand’s culture without all the gawking tourists, then make sure to add Hua Hin to Thailand itinerary.

It’s a bit of a drive from Bangkok, but once you arrive in Hua Hin you’ll understand why it was worth. It’s a beachside district and pretty laid back, with lush mountains in the background.

“It feels different from Bangkok. Hua Hin is a place worth seeing. The caves are spectacular. The tour guide is very kind and takes good care of everyone. This trip is great.”

Chen (Read more reviews)

The tour takes you to historical sites and shrines hidden inside caverns. And the trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop on the beach and enjoying some really good seafood.

Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hour(s) before the activity starts .

Dive into the beauty of Koh Larn, a dreamy tropical island just off the coast of mainland Thailand.

This full day tour (11 hours) takes you to Pattaya where you’ll sail to Koh Larn island to explore and relax on this dreamy island. This is quite literally what beach life looks like.

You can swim in clear waters, or snorkel or have a go at some fun water sports.

“The Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour was an incredible experience. The pristine beauty of Koh Larn’s coral reefs and white sand beaches left me in awe. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters was a highlight, revealing vibrant marine life.”

Maria (Read more reviews)

But before heading back to Bangkok, you’ll get to soak up incredible views from a viewpoint. And the highlight here will be the Sanctuary of Truth temple. A magnificent temple with intricate wooden carvings.

Located just 45 minutes outside of Bangkok, Safari World offers a fun day for all the family.

It’s easily accessible from Bangkok and you’ll get to see loads of wild animals and even do a Safari tour getting up and close with various animals.

“Highly recommended. This is a must when you visit Bangkok. totally worth it. The kids and adults really enjoyed this tour and were so amazed on how the animals are well maintained by the facility. Simply amazing.”

Agnes (Read more reviews)

If you choose the join in option, all you need to do is choose the amount of tickets and transport is automatically factored in. For private tours, choose the type of vehicle and the number of tickets for the park/zoo.

This day trip from Bangkok takes you back to the beautiful seaside area of Pattaya.

On this full day tour from Bangkok, you’ll have an expert guide take you to the most famous attractions. And later on enjoy lunch at a popular cafe where you’ll get up and close and interact with elephants.

“ Had so much fun with the elephants , the laser buddha and Nong Nooch garden, most especially the Sanctuary of truth. I think this can be senior-friendly as well with the first few places we visited as there’s a short distance walk and a sightseeing bus to be used.   “

Andrea (Read more reviews)

Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 48 hour(s) before the activity starts .

There’s a few things that shouldn’t be missed while in Thailand. And one of them is visiting an elephant sanctuary.

Visiting an elephant sanctuary not only gets you up and close with these gentle giants, but the entrance fee goes to rehabilitating the elephants before releasing them into the wild.

“This one is for the books and pls don’t miss this when you visit Thailand! They’ve got a perfect itinerary inside the sanctuary, you will experience feeding, playing, washing and more!!”

Rashada (Read more reviews)

After getting down and dirty with the elephants, and enjoying a tasty lunch, your guide will take you on a trek through the lush jungle and caves. The destination is Erawan Waterfall. A cascade with 7 tiers and enchanted emerald pools where you can take a dip, or simply relax in this magical place.

⭐️ RATING : 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 6 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

Imagine floating through a lake covered in pretty red lotus flowers. This is your chance to get some pretty incredible pictures for your Thailand trip album with the option to rent an authentic Thai dress that will make photos even more unforgettable.

On this tour, you’ll first change into traditional Thai clothing depending on your chosen package, before getting on the boat. Pose for photos, as a drone takes shots of you in the middle of the lake.

“The tour guide who was the driver was very friendly, he guided us with passion. The red floating market was wonderful, it was a pleasant ride and trip overall, was very therapeutic to see those red lotus from the serene pond”

Emily (Read more reviews)

After this interesting photoshoot, you’ll try a Thai snack called Miang Kham Kleb Bua, which is made from the lobe of lotus.

⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 6 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW

Slightly off topic because this isn’t a day trip from Bangkok, but rather a unique culinary experience within the City which seems fitting to end the day after doing one of these day trips.

Note: this tour starts at 7:00pm not midnight.

This evening tour throws you straight into Bangkok’s legendary street-food scene as you ride the colorful city’s backstreets and hidden spots. And what better way than do this on fun Tuk-Tuk.

“Gimao was an amazing tour guide; funny, informative, and patient! The tuk-tuk experience at night was so cool. And the food was fantastic, especially the rice noodle dish at Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai. I highly recommend you book this tour for a fun night out in Bangkok!”

Leah (Read more reviews)

Your Tuk-Tuk driver whizzes through the traffic and stops you at some incredible local restaurants to sample some of the best Thai cuisine. This tour is a complete package including all food and Tuk-Tuk transport. And the evening ends at a secret roof-top bar.

Day trips from Bangkok are an excursion from Bangkok to nearby places of interest that can be reached within about 1 hour to 2 hours drive. Unless you’re familiar with driving in Asia, the safest and most convenient option is to book a tour.

Usually tours are a half day trip from Bangkok. The duration of each tour varies depending on the type of activity involved. Generally the duration ranges from around 6 hours to 10 or 12 hours.

The day trips listed in this guide are complete tour packages from Bangkok and will include transport and driver, a guide, and most packages also include any entrance fees. Private tours also include pick-up/drop-off from and to your hotel.

Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hour(s) before the activity starts

If you decide to book one of these tours, most of them have the option to choose between private tour or a join-in tour.

A join-in tour means you’ll be part of a larger group. This option is perfect if you’re traveling solo because it’s cheap and you get to meet other people.

The private tour from Bangkok option allows you to book the tour only for the people in your group. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something more personalized.

The cost of a day trip from Bangkok will depend on the type of activity and what type of tour package you choose: ‘Join-in or Private Tour. You must consider the cost of each tour includes the vehicle, driver and fuel and often entrance fees are also included in the price.

The price range for the best day trips from Bangkok is $45 to $80 for the join in option. For private tours prices start at around $70 per person. With a private tour, the cost per person reduces significantly the more people are in the group.

Wondering where to Stay in Bangkok?

Bangkok is a huge City and is very diverse from 1 place to the other. With that in mind, it’s important to plan ahead and choose the right place or area to stay in.

Read this article for an overview about the areas to stay in Bangkok.

How we efficiently plan our trips.

Planning a holiday can be overwhelming, especially for those hands-on in the process. Thankfully, technology has simplified the task, making it easier to organize trips to destinations like Thailand. Here are the resources we swear by:

BOOKING.COM: Our go-to for booking accommodation. It’s user-friendly, offers the best prices*, and boasts the largest selection of online properties.

*After trying various methods to find the best prices, including direct booking, calling accommodations, and comparing with other sites, Booking.com consistently provided the lowest prices. Guest reviews on the platform are invaluable for decision-making, especially regarding accommodation and tour bookings.

KLOOK: Our go to resource for planning activities is KLOOK. Here we find loads of interesting activities for the destinations we’re visiting. And it’s really easy. Just enter the name of the destination in the search bar and a list of activities with prices and review score comes up.

It’s almost like shopping for something Amazon and the prices are also really competitive.

GET YOUR GUIDE: Another website for tours booking in Thailand and around the world is Get Your Guide. Here you’ll find a wide range of tours at great prices and most often have free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

HEY, just so you know…

This article contains affiliate links. That means that if you purchase anything from the links, I may get a small commission. Affiliates do not affect the final price and help cover the costs to maintain this website and keep it free for everyone.

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——— ABOUT US ———

We're Jackie and James, now in our late 30's, we've been traveling on and off for 5 years now. After living our entire lives on a tiny island named Malta, we set off to explore Asia on a budget while writing detailed guides about awesome destinations. We hope our travels help you realize that traveling doesn't have to cost a fortune.

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The Top 10 Day Trips from Bangkok

For most first-time visitors to Bangkok, spending 3-5 days there is ideal for exploring the highlights in and around the city. Allocate 1-2 days to visit the iconic temples in the city center, and another 2-4 days to explore the nearby attractions.

If you've already visited the city and are looking to get away from the crowds at the main attractions, we offer a selection of day trips. These could range from historical towns to sandy beaches, catering to the diverse needs of various travelers.

1. Ayutthaya: the Best Day Trip for Siam's Ancient Capital History

Renowned for its impressive archaeological sites, ruins, and historical temples, Ayutthaya is a popular day trip destination from Bangkok.

To maximize your time and ensure a comfortable travel experience, we recommend visiting two to three temples in Ayutthaya Historical Park, such as Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon ( best for photography), Wat Phanan Choeng (for making offerings), and Wat Mahathat: (witness the famous Buddha head within the roots of a tree). Then visit the Thai architectural wonders at Bang Pa In, the former Royal Summer Residence.

We do not recommend cycling in the ancient city, even though it is possible. Sharing the road with motor vehicles could be dangerous. Instead, a private tour with a car and guide is a better option for safety and comfort.

If you're seeking a change from temples while in Ayutthaya, we could offer an exclusive relaxing half-hour scenic long-tail boat ride. This experience offers you the chance to observe local life. If you're fortunate, you might even come across local villagers taking their elephants to the river.

Distance from Bangkok: an hour's drive from downtown Bangkok.

2. Kanchanaburi: the Best Day Trip for War History

If you're interested in the war history of Thailand, include Kanchanaburi in your day trip from Bangkok.

Spend some time to explore the JEATH War Museum to learn about the WWII's dark past history. Then visit the historic bridge over the River Kwai and take an hour's train ride along the Death Railway over the original wooden viaduct. Reflect on the sacrifices made by those who labored under harsh conditions to reshape the landscape.

If time permits, consider visiting Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to honor the soldiers and prisoners of war who lost their lives during the construction of the Death Railway. More than 6,000 POWs, predominantly Allied soldiers, are buried at this site.

Traveling with a knowledgeable guide could help you to have an in-depth, insightful tour of these sights.

Distance from Bangkok: 2 hours' drive from downtown Bangkok.

3. Elephant Park in Kanchanaburi: the Best Day Trip for Elephant Care

If you're interested in connecting with nature and getting up close to elephants just a short distance from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is an excellent destination to consider.

In Kanchanaburi, there are several elephant parks and sanctuaries. Here are the top two recommendations:

Both Elephant Haven and Elephant's World are great for families with teenagers. Both are ideal places for a day of elephant interactions, such as feeding them, walking through the forest to learn more about their lives, and enjoying their playful antics in a mud pit. After lunch, join the elephants for a refreshing bath in the river before concluding the adventure by feeding and capturing photos with these gentle giants.

Distance from Bangkok: about 2 hours' drive from downtown Bangkok.

Click to learn the  Top 8 Elephant Sanctuaries near Bangkok . 

4. Erawan National Park: the Best Day Trip for Nature and Waterfalls

Well-known for its beautiful waterfalls, caves, and lush forests, Erawan National Park is one of the best choices for day trips from Bangkok.

One of the highlights is the mesmerizing Erawan Waterfalls, a seven-tiered cascade of crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by a lush tropical forest. You could take a scenic trek through the verdant jungle trails, passing by each tier of the waterfall -about 2 kilometers (1.5 miles) from tier 1-7 . Swimming in the cool, crystal pools shaped by the cascading water is a relaxing way to escape the summer heat.

Insider tips: The best time to visit the waterfall is from June to October when the rainfall fills it with enough water. Tiers 3-5 offer excellent swimming spots with their deep waters. Tier 3 stands out as the best backdrop for photography.

Apart from the waterfall activities, you could discover diverse wildlife, such as colorful birds, butterflies, and even monkeys amid the lush landscape. Appreciate its rich biodiversity with rare orchids, towering trees, and vibrant blooms.

5. Pattaya or Hua Hin: the Best Day Trip for Enjoying Beach Time

If you're looking for a quick beach getaway, consider Pattaya or Hua Hin, each offering unique attractions:

Pattaya: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Pattaya has a variety of clubs, bars, and entertainment options. Its bustling beaches include the 3-kilometer Pattaya Beach and the quieter Jomtien Beach. Enjoy water sports, shopping, and amusement parks including water parks and botanical gardens.

Hua Hin: In contrast, Hua Hin offers a laid-back atmosphere. As a favored retreat of the Thai royal family, it exudes an upscale charm. Its cleaner and less-crowded beaches, such as Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab Beach, are ideal for a peaceful escape. Additionally, a short drive to Tham Khao Luang Cave reveals captivating natural and spiritual wonders.

Another advantage to visit Hua Hin is its close proximity to Tham Khao Luang Cave, located just a half-hour drive away. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of this cave and experience its spiritual and natural wonders.

Distance from Bangkok: 1½ hours' drive to Pattaya and 2½hours' drive to Hua Hin from downtown Bangkok.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

6. Local Markets Day Trip: Explore Mahachai Market, a Railway Market and a Floating Market

Bangkok boasts a variety of markets, including the distinctive floating markets unique to Southeast Asia. Your Bangkok trip wouldn't be complete without visiting these markets. For a richer experience, we recommend a market day trip to explore three distinct markets. It's a great way to experience the rhythmic pulse of local life and engage with local vendors.

You could start with Mahachai Market to taste authentic local street cuisine and fresh seafood for breakfast. Navigate through the vibrant maze of stalls and in this open-air markets, brimming with a captivating array of fresh produce, spices, seafood, and local delicacies waiting to be discovered.

Then head to Maeklong Railway Market to witness a unique spectacle as warning bells announce the arrival of a train, prompting vendors to swiftly retract their goods for its passage. Taking a ride on the train offers a unique perspective to witness the transformative moment as the train goes through the bustling marketplace.

After lunch, climb aboard a traditional longtail boat to glide through the canals of Damnoen Saduak , where the vibrant floating market awaits. Explore the amazing waterways bordered by wooden boats filled with a bounty of fresh produce, local snacks, and handcrafted goods, creating a visual feast for your senses.

Distance from Bangkok: 1½ hours' drive

Feel overwhelmed when planning your Bangkok trip? Get inspiration on how to plan a trip to Bangkok .

7. Khao Yai National Park: The Best Day Trip for a Jungle Hike

Renowned for its lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, Khao Yai National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, perfect for a short trip from Bangkok.

Begin with a leisurely hike along the gibbon route or Haew Suwat nature trail, both suitable for all ages. Discover majestic waterfalls, such as Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, and if you're lucky, encounter wildlife such as elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and macaques. Explore hidden caves with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, revealing the park's geological history.

If time permits, stay overnight for a richer experience . Take a night safari to spot wild animals in the dark, or join our experienced local guide to witness millions of bats flying out of a cave after sunset—a rare and mesmerizing sight that could be elusive for most visitors to discover independently.

Distance from Bangkok: 2½ hours' drive

8. Safari World Bangkok: the Best Day Trip for a Wild City Adventure

For families traveling with kids who wish to experience wildlife without going too far, Safari World Bangkok is the perfect destination. This world-class wildlife park offers an exciting mix of animal encounters, live shows, and interactive experiences.

Start with a truck safari drive-through to see exotic animals, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitats. Kids could even feed the giraffes and zebras.

Don't miss the Marine Park shows featuring dolphins, seals, and exotic birds in engaging performances for all ages. Educational sessions highlight wildlife conservation, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship, offering valuable insights into marine life.

Distance from Bangkok: 30 minutes' drive

9. Nakhon Nayok: the Best Day Trip for Cycling around the Countryside

Situated to the northeast of Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is an ideal day trip destination renowned for its captivating landscapes, tranquil waterways, and rich cultural offerings.

Begin your journey early in the morning to escape the midday heat, especially if you are planning on cycling around the delightful Ban Na village and soak up the sights of its lush paddy fields and traditional Thai architecture in the countryside.

Then head to Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam (Thailand's largest and one of the tallest dams globally), providing stunning panoramic views and excellent opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

For a refreshing afternoon, consider visiting Sarika Waterfall. This natural gem boasts multiple tiers and inviting swimming spots, offering a rejuvenating experience.

10. Samut Prakan Vineyard: the Best Day Trip for Nature and Wine Tasting

Just a short distance from Bangkok, Samut Prakan Vineyard is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip away from the bustling city.

Take a leisurely walk or cycle through the picturesque vineyard, surrounded by lush grapevines, rolling green hills, and stunning countryside views. Rest at the Botanical Garden and enjoy its beautiful flower-lined paths.

For lunch, savor local dishes and wines at the vineyard's restaurant or have a picnic amidst the vines. Afterward, join wine appreciation workshops and cellar tastings to deepen your understanding of winemaking and grape varieties.

You Might Also Like

The Top 15 Things to Do with Kids in Bangkok

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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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22 Best Day Trips from Bangkok, Thailand | 2024 (with Photos)

Marvellous Oyebanjo - Travel Writer

Published: August 28, 2023

Hey there! I'm Marvellous, a travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring new destinations. In this article, I'll be sharing the most incredible day trips from Bangkok, Thailand, based on my personal experiences and adventures. Enjoy planning your trip and have an unforgettable time exploring these amazing places!

Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modernity.

While exploring Bangkok itself can be an unforgettable experience, venturing beyond the city limits allows you to discover the magnificent natural beauty, ancient ruins, and cultural gems that surround the capital.

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to floating markets and national parks, there are plenty of day trips from Bangkok that offer a diverse range of experiences. 

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, these day trips will leave you enchanted. Let's dive into the 22 best day trips from Bangkok.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

Grand Palace

Top Choice Hotel

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Sing Sing Theater

Best Time to Visit

November to February: Cooler weather, festivals, and fewer crowds.

Average Temperature

Hot and humid, Bangkok's average temperature is sweltering.

Transportation Options

Taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, BTS, MRT, buses, boats, walking.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Bangkok, the vibrant capital city of Thailand, offers a plethora of exciting experiences that will leave you captivated. Immerse yourself in the bustling streets and indulge in the delightful chaos of the city's famous street food scene, where you can savor mouthwatering delicacies such as spicy pad thai and flavorful mango sticky rice. As you wander through the lively markets and ancient temples, feel the pulse of the city and let its unique blend of modernity and history transport you to a different world.

Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and discover the hidden gems of Bangkok, such as the charming neighborhood of Chinatown. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys lined with colorful shops and ornate temples, and don't forget to try the local specialties like steamed fish with lime and chili or yam woon sen, a delicious glass noodle salad. Finally, unwind in the evening by taking a leisurely boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, witnessing the city's sparkling skyline and its temples aglow with golden lights. In Bangkok, every moment is an opportunity for adventure and personal connection, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking an intimate experience.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Money and credit cards
• Travel insurance
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light and breathable clothing
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Adapter for electrical outlets
• Travel guidebook or map
• Portable phone charger

What Not to Miss

Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Floating Market, Jim Thompson House, Chinatown, Soi Cowboy, Khao San Road

What to Avoid

Scams: Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering an extremely low fare, as they may take you to overpriced shops instead. Avoid giving money or food to begging groups, as it may encourage dependency. Be wary of unsolicited help or advice from strangers.

Street food hygiene: While Bangkok is known for its delicious street food, exercise caution when choosing food stalls. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, and be cautious of street food prepared in unhygienic conditions. Stay away from ice that may not be made from boiled or purified water.

Table of Contents

1. Ayutthaya Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Journey

Embark on a day trip from Bangkok and discover the ancient capital of Ayutthaya , a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Immerse yourself in Thai history as you explore the temple ruins , magnificent palaces, and iconic statues that showcase the grandeur of this once-thriving city.

Uncover the secrets of Ayutthaya's past and marvel at the architectural wonders that have stood the test of time.

2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: A Vibrant Aquatic Shopping Experience

Embark on a day trip from Bangkok and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Damnoen Saduak floating market .

Climb aboard a longtail boat and navigate through a bustling maze of wooden boats, brimming with local vendors selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and mouth watering street food.

Immerse yourself in the colors, aromas, and flavors of the Damnoen Saduak floating market as you soak up the authentic local culture .

This exciting adventure awaits just a short journey away from Bangkok's bustling cityscape.

3. Erawan National Park: Discover the Majestic Waterfalls and Serene Wilderness

Set out on a trip from Bangkok to the breathtaking Erawan National Park , famous for its enchanting waterfalls and lush jungle.

Immerse yourself in nature's wonders as you indulge in a refreshing dip in the emerald-colored pools and hike along the park's scenic trails.

Surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, this adventure offers a rejuvenating escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Discover the allure of Erawan National Park, just a short journey away from the heart of Bangkok.

4. Amphawa Floating Market: Unveiling the Charms of a Hidden Gem

Embark on a day trip from Bangkok and discover the charming Amphawa Floating Market , an exquisite hidden gem away from the tourist crowds.

Immerse yourself in an authentic experience as locals showcase their goods from traditional wooden boats .

Treat your taste buds to delectable local cuisine and be captivated by the picturesque sunset that paints the river in vibrant hues.

Escape the city's hustle and indulge in the tranquility and charm of the Amphawa Floating Market, a perfect getaway within reach from Bangkok.

5. Koh Kret Island: a Serene Escape near Bangkok

Discover the serene charm of Koh Kret Island , an idyllic escape from Bangkok's bustling cityscape.

Located in the Chao Phraya River , this man-made island is renowned for its pottery and tranquil ambiance.

Immerse yourself in the island's culture by exploring local markets, treating yourself to delicious coconut ice cream, and embracing the laid-back atmosphere.

Experience the unique allure of Koh Kret Island, where pottery, relaxation, and local delights await, just a short distance away from the vibrant city of Bangkok.

6. Kwan Aman Pottery Museum

If you want to plan a specifically arty day trip, make sure to uncover the world of pottery at the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum , nestled on the captivating Koh Kret Island.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant pottery heritage of this small island as you delve into its rich history. Witness skilled craftsmen in action, marveling at their expertise.

Take the opportunity to unleash your creativity and try your hand at crafting your very own masterpiece.

This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the art of pottery, allowing you to connect with the island's cultural legacy and create lasting memories.

7. Bang Pa-In Summer Palace: A Tranquil Retreat Near Bangkok

Experience the captivating allure of Bang Pa-In Summer Palace , a short distance from Bangkok.

Admire the exquisite architecture, verdant gardens, and tranquil lake that adorned the abode of Thai monarchs . Delve into the grandeur of this regal sanctuary as you meander through its graceful halls and captivating environs.

Let the charm of Bang Pa-In Summer Palace transport you into a realm of serenity, providing a refreshing respite from the city's vibrant energy.

8. Maeklong Railway Market: Where Tradition Meets the Tracks

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Bangkok and witness the extraordinary Maeklong Railway Market .

Be amazed as vendors skillfully set up their stalls along an active train line , only to swiftly fold them away to accommodate passing trains. This remarkable spectacle showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of the local vendors.

Experience the excitement as the market transforms before your eyes, creating a truly unique sight.

9. Pattaya Beach: Serene Sands and Vibrant Coastal Vibes

For a rejuvenating seaside getaway, venture to Pattaya Beach , a sought-after tourist destination just a short drive from Bangkok.

Indulge in the allure of pristine sandy beaches , partake in thrilling water sports activities , and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you seek relaxation under the sun or excitement on the waves, Pattaya Beach has it all.

Discover this coastal gem that seamlessly combines adventure and entertainment, all within easy reach of bustling Bangkok.

10. Rose Garden Thai Village: A Cultural Retreat Near Bangkok

Embark on a cultural day trip from Bangkok and immerse yourself in the rich heritage at the Rose Garden Thai Village .

Witness captivating traditional Thai dances , observe skilled handicraft demonstrations, and indulge in a delectable Thai buffet lunch in Rose Garden Thai Village.

Engage in a Thai cooking class and savor the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine. This immersive experience allows you to delve into Thai culture, all within reach on a convenient trip from the bustling city of Bangkok.

11. Nakhon Pathom: A Full-Day Excursion from Bangkok Revealing Cultural Treasures

Embark on a full-day tour to Nakhon Pathom , a captivating city on the outskirts of Bangkok. Discover the iconic Phra Pathom Chedi , the world's tallest golden stupa, which stands as a testament to the city's rich history.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets and explore the fascinating historic landmarks that adorn the cityscape.

This full-day excursion promises a blend of cultural immersion and architectural marvels, offering a memorable journey just a stone's throw away from the bustling capital.

12. The Ancient City: Unveiling the Past

Experience a captivating journey through time on a trip from Bangkok to the Ancient City . This open-air museum presents replicas of Thailand's remarkable historical sites, offering a glimpse into the country's rich heritage.

Delve into the expansive temple complex, meander through enchanting gardens, and deepen your understanding of Thai history .

Immerse yourself in the allure of the Ancient City, a remarkable destination that invites you to explore the past.

13. Wang Ta Krai Waterfall: Nature's Serenity Unveiled

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Khao Yai National Park and discover the enchanting Wang Ta Kari Waterfall . Embark on a trek through the lush forest, allowing the fresh air to invigorate your senses.

Witness the mesmerizing cascade of waters as they form a tranquil oasis in the heart of nature. This serene and picturesque waterfall offers a perfect escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Experience the breathtaking allure of this waterfall, within Khao Yai National Park's stunning landscapes.

14. River Kwai: Unveiling the Historical Legacy and Natural Beauty

Experience a poignant day trip from Bangkok as you delve into history at the River Kwai region . Pay homage to World War II victims at the moving Death Railway .

Embark on a scenic train trip along the infamous railway, with the iconic River Kwai Bridge as your awe-inspiring destination.

This immersive exploration offers a glimpse into the past, allowing you to reflect on the significance of this historic region.

15. Thai Cultural Shows: A Spectacular Display of Rich Traditions and Vibrant Performances

Enhance your trip with an immersive Thai cultural show , where you can fully immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of Thailand.

Be captivated by the graceful movements of traditional dances, the enchanting melodies of musical performances, and the vibrant colors of intricate costumes.

This cultural extravaganza offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the country's rich heritage , providing a memorable and authentic experience during your trip.

Immerse yourself in Thai traditions and let the cultural show transport you to the heart of Thailand's cultural tapestry.

16. King Rama IX Park: Bangkok's Green Oasis of Tranquility

Escape the city's hustle and bustle at King Rama IX Park , a sprawling green oasis offering respite within Bangkok.

Take a leisurely stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, immersing yourself in nature's embrace. Explore the captivating botanical gardens and marvel at the breathtaking Thai pavilions that grace the park.

This park invites you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and admire the enchanting beauty that lies within the heart of the bustling city.

17. Temples of Tranquility: Exploring Bangkok's Sacred Sites and Spiritual Treasures

Embark on a journey of awe and spirituality as you explore Bangkok's beautiful temples .

Marvel at the breathtaking Wat Arun , standing tall along the Chao Phraya River, and be mesmerized by the grandeur of Wat Phra Yai Temple within the magnificent Grand Palace complex.

These temples stand as timeless symbols of Bangkok's rich religious heritage , inviting you to witness their intricate architecture, ornate decorations, and serene atmosphere.

Discover the beauty and profound spirituality that permeates these sacred sites, leaving an indelible impression on your journey through the vibrant capital.

18. Tram Tour of Bangkok: Rediscovering the City's Heritage on Wheels

Not all day trips have to take you far from your base. You can discover the charms of greater Bangkok in a truly unique way with a delightful tram tour of the city .

Step aboard a vintage tram and embark on a nostalgic journey through the vibrant streets of Bangkok and beyond, as you pass by stunning temples, historic landmarks, and bustling local neighborhoods.

Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture and heritage, as your tram takes you on a captivating ride that offers a fresh perspective of Bangkok's hidden gems . Experience the magic of Bangkok from the comfort of a vintage tram, and make unforgettable memories.

19. JEATH War Museum: Remembering the Sacrifices of the Death Railway and Famous Bridge

The powerful and somber JEATH War Museum ****offers a glimpse into the lives of prisoners of war during World War II. Step inside this thought-provoking museum and witness firsthand the conditions endured by the captives who toiled on the railway under harsh circumstances.

Through its exhibits, photographs, and artifacts, the museum provides a poignant narrative of the wartime experience. Gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the Death Railway and the River Kwai Bridge as you reflect on the sacrifices made by those involved.

A visit to this museum is a powerful reminder of the resilience and human spirit in the face of adversity.

20. Night Market Delights: Exploring Bangkok's Vibrant Nightlife and Shopping Scene

Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Bangkok's bustling night markets , where a world of excitement awaits.

From the renowned Rod Fai Night Market to the vibrant Talad Neon , these vibrant markets offer an abundance of shopping delights, delectable street food, and a glimpse into the city's vibrant nightlife.

Explore the maze of stalls, uncover unique treasures, and indulge in the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine. 

Bangkok's night markets are a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and tastes, providing an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

21. Erawan Museum: A Majestic Journey into Thai Mythology and Artistry

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Bangkok to The Erawan Museum , a mesmerizing attraction that showcases Thai culture and mythology.

Located just outside the city, this architectural marvel houses a three-headed elephant statue , symbolizing the Hindu deity, Airavata. Don't miss the chance to climb to the top of the elephant structure, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

As you step inside the Erawan Museum, you'll be captivated by the intricate details and vibrant colors adorning the museum's interior. Explore the vast collection of religious artifacts , ancient artifacts, and contemporary art, all carefully curated to offer a glimpse into Thailand's rich heritage.

This trip promises a unique blend of history, art, and spirituality, leaving you with lasting memories of Thailand's cultural wonders.

22. Khao Yai National Park: Exploring the Wilderness of Natural Wonders

Embark on a trip from Bangkok and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Khao Yai National Park , a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.

Discover lush forests, encounter fascinating wildlife, and be captivated by the magnificent waterfalls scattered throughout the landscape. 

Khao Yai National Park offers a remarkable escape into nature's embrace, all within a convenient distance from Bangkok .

Experience the wonders of Khao Yai National Park, where adventure and serenity harmoniously coexist.

Related Article : Unique and Exciting Islands in Asia

FAQs Regarding Bangkok Day Trips

Let's look at the most frequently asked questions relating to Bangkok day trips.

Which beach day trip is best from Bangkok?

When looking for a beach trip from Bangkok, Pattaya stands out as a popular choice. Located just a short drive away, it offers a convenient same-day getaway. With its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and bustling seaside city atmosphere, Pattaya provides all the highlights for a memorable beach excursion.

Where can you go from Bangkok?

From Bangkok, you can embark on various exciting journeys. Explore the ancient stone ruins of Ayutthaya or visit the iconic Grand Palace in central Bangkok. Experience a winter wonderland at Snow Town or venture to nearby national parks. Convenient public transport options make a half-day tour easily accessible.

How many days in Bangkok is enough?

The ideal duration for exploring Bangkok depends on personal preferences. To cover the main attraction and other popular tourist destinations, 3-4 days is often recommended. Engaging a local guide enhances the experience, unveiling hidden gems alongside Southeast Asia. Don't miss the absolute best day trips like the enchanting Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Khao Yai National Park.

What countries are closest to Bangkok?

Bangkok shares borders with several neighboring countries. Cambodia is a popular destination, known for its ancient temples like Angkor Wat. Laos offers a tranquil escape with its laid-back atmosphere. A knowledgeable tour guide can facilitate seamless travel, while public transport unveils hidden gems like the mystical tree roots of Ta Prohm temple.

Summing up: Best Day Trips from Bangkok, Thailand

With so many incredible day trips from Bangkok, you can experience the absolute best that Thailand has to offer.

Whether you are seeking cultural immersion, natural wonders, or historical discoveries, these day trips provide a glimpse into the diverse and captivating beauty of Thailand.

So, grab your camera, hop on a longtail boat or a train, and embark on a journey to the enchanting floating markets that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Don't forget to indulge in some mango sticky rice along the way, a delicious treat that perfectly complements your adventures beyond Bangkok's city limits.

Ayutthaya Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Journey

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: A Vibrant Aquatic Shopping Experience

Amphawa Floating Market: Unveiling the Charms of a Hidden Gem

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace: A Tranquil Retreat Near Bangkok

The Ancient City: Unveiling the Past

Temples of Tranquility: Exploring Bangkok's Sacred Sites and Spiritual Treasures

Related articles, featured in.

Are these the 15 BEST DAY TRIPS from Bangkok?

But with so much to see in easy reach of the city itself, why not make the most of your time in Thailand and see more of what the country has to offer? You’ll also get to escape the sweaty city streets too, and get to take a breath of fresh air in the wilds of nature.

So we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Bangkok, to help you get out of the city and into exploring the wilder – and more traditional side – of Thailand.

Not only that, but we’ve also mixed in a few entertaining options to keep kids happy, some day trips from Bangkok perfect for couples – and some of the best train rides you can find in Thailand.

It’s time for your Thai adventures…

Editor’s note – Looking for a place to crash in Bangkok? Check out our best hostels in Bangkok!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Bangkok

• Day Trips from Bangkok by Train – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Train Market TourMae Klong train market
• Romantic Day Trips from Bangkok for Couples – Bangkok Jungle Bike Tour: Morning or Afternoon Trip
• Best Day Trips from Bangkok with Kids – Lopburi

Best Places to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok has so much going for it that it’s no surprise that it’s a top destination for travellers from all over the world. Partying, culture, and food galore makes it an exciting city to explore. The city is an ideal base for explore the surrounding Thai countryside, but it’s important to book accomodation that makes it easy to get out of the city.

• Best Hostel in Bangkok •

Cubic bangkok.

• Unbeatable for foodies

Right in the middle of the MBK shopping mall, with a ton of different street food stalls around the area, you can get lost in two of Bangkok’s biggest past-times: shopping and eating. The hostel itself features modern dorms with a lot of privacy and minimalist, industrial chic aesthetic and laid-back lounges to hang out in.

• Best Budget Hotel in Bangkok •

Adagio bangkok.

This budget hotel in Bangkok is not only super stylish, but it’s got a great location too. From here it’s just two miles to the fun of Arab Street plus there are a ton of shopping malls nearby (good to escape from the heat if you don’t like shopping). There’s a choice of rooms to suit your budget, too.

Solo Travelers will love these hostels in Bangkok .

• Best Luxury Hotel in Bangkok •

Shangri-la hotel bangkok.

• Amazing waterfront location

Honestly there’s not much more you could want from a hotel in Bangkok. This is all about everything upscale and chic – with all the trimmings. Bathe with views of the river, relax in a jacuzzi surrounded by tropical trees, and dine on delicious delicacies in one of its restaurants. Life is good at this luxury hotel in Bangkok.

#1 Best Day Trip from Bangkok – Damnoen Saduak

Day trips from bangkok by train.

• Incredible market
• Fun adventure

Starting at Ban Na Kwang train station, getting a slice of the traditional market action is an easy day trip from Bangkok by train. Not only can visit the floating market at Damnoen Saduak, but also visit the unique Mae Klong railway market, too.

The railway market itself has been nicknamed Talat Rom Hup, which literally translates as ‘umbrella pulldown market’. As the train moves through, the market disassembles itself and moves away from the rails, then springs back onto the tracks once the train has passed as though nothing has happened.

You can hop off the train here and take a stroll around the market yourself, tasting local food and getting lost in a weird and wonderful array of aromas.

Heading to Damnoen Saduak, this famous floating market (featured in Man With a Golden Gun, amongst other films) is a colourful spectrum of traditional street food, fresh fish, and even flowers. Chat to the friendly vendors and dig into to some delicious Thai dishes for yourself.

You’ll want to bring your camera along on this amazing day trip from Bangkok, that’s for sure.

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#2 – Kanchanaburi

• Great for history lovers
• Scenic train ride
• Important message

The train ride from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is a must if you’re interested in world history. And even if not, this day trip from Bangkok by train is a fantastic way to soak up the charming Thai countryside as it rushes past your window.

Kanchanaburi itself is a welcoming town, but with a dark past. In 1943, at the height of the Pacific War, the Japanese army used Allied prisoners of war as well as Southeast Asian labourers to build a railway – dubbed the Death Railway – from Thailand to support its military campaign in Burma. Tens of thousands lost their lives.

Nowadays the railway stands as a reminder to those who died.

Here you can actually get a train that goes over the bridge made famous by the war film, Bridge Over The River Kwai, and go to pay your respects at Hellfire Pass. Along the way you can see Japanese steam locomotives left like monuments.

Museums in the area, including the JEATH Museum, contain a wealth of information, stories and artefacts left over from this harrowing period of history.

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#3 – Ayutthaya

• Ancient history
• Amazing temples
• Island adventure

Packed full with centuries-old ruins and mystic temples, Ayutthaya was the ancient capital of Siam (an old kingdom of Thailand) – from the 14th century to 1767 when Burmese invaders burnt it to the ground.

This fascinating archaeological site is a warren of Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues, all situated on an island encompassed by three rivers. Since it was a place for foreign traders, from Burmese to Japanese, the once thriving capital city is full of different outside influences in its architecture.

One of the most iconic things to see here is the Buddha head that has been slowly overtaken by the gigantic roots of a fig tree.  You can also visit Wat Yai Chai Mong Khon with its huge stupa and myriad rows of seated Buddha images.

The proximity of Ayutthaya to Bangkok means it is one of the easiest day trips from Bangkok by train you could ever go on. Hop on the train from Thailand’s modern capital in the morning, and you’ll soon be in amongst the ruins of Ayutthaya, snapping pics and marvelling at the sights.

Bangkok has some INCREDIBLE sights! Take one of the top tours in Bangkok to really discover this city!

#4 – Mahachai

• Chances to see local life
• Delicious seafood

Another of Thailand’s famous markets can be seen at Mahachai. This is actually one of the largest fishing areas in the whole country – and this is definitely reflected in Mahachai’s fish market.

Take a train ride from Bangkok through lush countryside, past colourful, traditional wooden homes, chugging through small, quaint train stations, before the train arrives at Mahachai.

The fish market itself is easily accessible from the station; in fact, it would be hard to miss it because the station is in the middle of it all.  The fish and seafood on sale here have brought up the river from the sea, caught fresh that morning.

After an hour (or two) of observing the local energy and smelling the scent, you’d expect at a fish market, make sure you taste some of that food yourself from one of many local seafood restaurants at lunch. The freshness and quality are top notch.

Arriving early can make for an even more interesting day trip from Bangkok by train, as the many porters unload the catch and stall start setting up for a busy day of selling fish.

Editor’s recommendation – 17 awesome hostels in Pai, Thailand

#5 – Hua Hin

• Great for beach lovers
• Kitesurfing fun
• Interesting architecture

Though the train ride from Bangkok to Hua Hin may not be lightning fast, once you arrive in this popular seaside destination you’ll forget all about any travel woes you might be having.

At Hua Hin – a favourite of Bangkok residents looking to unwind and have fun at this coastal town – you can simply soak up the sun on the sand. 

Of course, there’s more to Hua Hin than just lazing around, right? This is one of the best places for kitesurfing in Asia. It’s also a popular spot for golfers and, if you’re a fan of seafood, this is a great place to chow down on some amazing marine cuisine.

On this sunny day trip from Bangkok by train, you might want to pack in as much as possible. And if you do, there are also a smattering of historical sights you can visit at Hua Hin, including the railway station itself – built in 1968, it’s a charming wooden building that was once a royal pavilion for Thai King himself.

There’s also the amazing Spanish style Klay Kangwon Palace, dating back to 1929, where the Thai Royal Family still spend the hot summer months.

Staying Safe in Bangkok

While Bangkok is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Thailand!

#6 – Bang Krachao

Romantic day trips from bangkok for couples.

• Relaxing bicycle ride
• Jungle adventure
• Ancient temple

For a great day trip for couples from Bangkok, a visit to the nearby jungle oasis of Bang Krachao would suit those looking to escape the city madness for a while and surround themselves in greenery and wildlife.

It’s an easy journey to get there out of the city, lying just a few miles south of the capital by ferry. It’s a perfect way to explore another side of Thai life.

This jungle experience is a perfectly romantic day trip from Bangkok for couples: you can spend the afternoon pedalling along meandering pathways that criss-cross through the jungle, stumbling across local communities. Here you can really enjoy a slower, more tranquil pace of life.

There’s canals, small villages and even a small, ancient temple to explore at Bang Krachao. Cycle through the temple gardens, with the city skyline rising as a backdrop, and you’ll be surprised that you can be immersed in somewhere this peaceful so close to Bangkok.

It’s a wonderful way to experience what life in the city would have been like hundreds of years before the skyscrapers and flyovers.

Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Thailand !

#7 – Rose Garden Thai Village

• Local arts & crafts
• Romantic walks
• Cooking classes

Just 50 kilometres west of the capital in Nakhon Pathom Province – an hour and a half drive out of the city itself – is the cultural park of Samphran Riverside (also known as Rose Garden). It’s a place to learn more about various aspects of Thai life and culture and makes for an interesting day trip for couples from Bangkok.

You and your partner can stroll around the simple and elegant traditional wooden houses of the park and take part in arts and crafts workshops, from umbrella painting and silk weaving to creating and decorating traditional pottery.

There’s also the chance to sample some fantastic Thai food, or even turn your hand to being a chef yourself at one of the cooking classes on offer.

The outdoor food court here is a great opportunity to fill up for lunch, plus there’s even a mini floating market under the shade of a beautiful banyan tree, which is handy if you don’t have time to make it to Damnoen Saduak.

If you’re lucky you might even catch a Thai wedding taking place around the lake.

#8 – Khao Yai National Park

• Great hiking
• Amazing nature
• Famous waterfall

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khao Yai National Park offers up opportunities to trek in the jungle all day surrounded by stunning scenery. One of the best day trips from Bangkok for couples, starting early means you get the best chance for incredible views.

Hike through the park and you’ll come across observation towers where you can soak up breathtaking vistas and even spot some of the wildlife that lives around the lakes and open grasslands here.

You can enjoy a traditional lunch at one of the locally owned restaurants at Khao Yai. And once you’re full of tasty Thai food, make sure you visit the park headquarters to learn more about the ecology of the natural environment.

If you and your partner are adventurous, you’ll love this place. There’s even the Haew Suwat Waterfall, which is not only a pleasant place to take a hard-earned break after all that hiking, but it’s also the same waterfall featured in the iconic film The Beach. (No jumping in like Leo, though – swimming is off limits).

#9 – Koh Kret

• Indigenous culture
• Traditional crafts
• Rural setting

For the chance to visit a small island with a slow pace of traditional life, Koh Kret is a great option for a romantic day trip from Bangkok for couples.

An artificial island, this place is actually a Mon settlement – the Mon tribes being one of the many ethnic groups that make up Thailand. In fact, the Mon tribes once dominated this area the country between the 6th and 10th centuries.

Their lifestyle and traditions have been preserved at Koh Kret, one of the oldest settlements of Mon people. Because of this, you’ll be able to get a glimpse into Mon culture, including simply decorated earthenware pottery and rural ways of life.

Explore the small hamlets and stop off for a drink to take a break from the heat of the day. And make sure you check out the Wat Poramai Yikawat, a Buddhist temple with Mon characteristics – namely the marble exteriors. Its leaning stupa is over 200 years old.

From central Bangkok, it’s an affordable 100 Baht longtail boat and 2 Baht ferry to Koh Kret. It’s best to go on a weekday, as it gets very busy on the weekend.

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#10 – Mahasawat Canal

• Beautiful scenery
• Relaxing boat trip
• Delicious food

Experience the agricultural heart of Thailand with this canal trip . You can easily pack a full day of excursions as you cruise along the canal in the sunshine, making for a picturesque day trip for couples from Bangkok.

Stop off at an orchid farm and be quite literally surrounded by thousands of orchids. Here you can learn about farm life in Thailand, which still remains daily life for the bulk of the country’s population. You can even buy an orchid or two – for a snip of city prices.

As you travel down the Mahasawat Canal you’ll gradually come across fruit orchards and rice paddies, and see Thai farmers working the land. You’ll spot enormous fishing nets poised above the water, too.

Take a ride on a tractor – for the full farm experience, of course – and try a bit of the sweet produce for yourself, before stopping for lunch alongside the canal and trying out a whole lot of the unique delicacies on offer.

This is certainly a slow (and delicious) romantic day trip from Bangkok for couples.

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#11 – Lopburi

Best day trips from bangkok with kids.

• Loads of monkeys
• Explore temples

One of Thailand’s oldest cities, Lopburi is also known as ‘Monkey City’ and is a fun day trip from Bangkok with kids – and that’s not just because of the monkeys.

Walking around the old town of Lopburi means you and your children get to discover the many temples and palaces that date back to the Khmer and Ayutthaya empires – many foreign dignitaries were entertained here centuries ago.

Curious and crumbling, you’ll feel like you’re walking into a time machine.

But the town seems to have been taken over by an army of macaques. You’ll see them hanging from telephone wires, lounging on rooftops and scrabbling around for food from passers-by (one of their favourite pursuits).

There’s even a ‘Monkey Temple’, where you can buy some treats to feed the cheeky and ever hungry macaques prowling around. And this always means some great photo opportunities to be had.

Children will love this unique day trip from Bangkok. It’s fun seeing otherworldly temples, but it’s also funny to see monkeys running around!

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#12 – Pattaya

• Meet friendly elephants
• Learn about animal welfare
• Have a bath!

Pattaya is often known as a raucous resort town, almost like a ‘Sin City’, but near to this thriving coastal town is the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary .

In a country where elephants have been integral to iconography and even history, here you can spend some time learning about the welfare of these gentle giants.

As more and more travellers learn that elephant rides aren’t as cool as they once seemed – especially for the elephants themselves – this day trip from Bangkok to Pattaya with kids is the perfect way to teach little ones all about elephants and how these animals can enjoy a fulfilling life in the modern world.

Spend your day alongside the elephants themselves and learn about what elephants like to eat (you can even help make their meals), enjoy a mud spa with the elephants themselves, and then wash off as you take a dip in the water – together.

A fun and memorable day for everybody.

#13 – Dream World

• Ride rollercoasters
• Magical fairytales
• Great facilities

For a spot of excitement and fun, not much can beat this easy day trip from Bangkok for kids. That’s right: Dream World is just an hour’s drive north of the capital, in the neighbouring province of Pathum Thani.

This amusement park offers up all the action-packed adrenaline rushes that you’d expect (including three rollercoasters) – plus the gentler rides for smaller children, so nobody’s left out.

There are different theme worlds here, from Fantasy Land where fairytales from all over the world come together in different rides and attractions, to Adventure Land where you’ll find most of the park’s thrill rides.

Filled with everything you’ll need on a day trip from Bangkok with kids in tow, like places to eat and good facilities, it’s a way to escape to a fantasy world from a day before returning to the busy city life of the Thai capital.

We’re sure even adults will like this place!

#14 – Siam Park City

• Have fun in the splash park
• Slide down fun waterslides

If you’re feeling hot and sticky in the sweltering city and you need to cool off, here’s a great way to do so – and with your children, too!

Whereas Dream World is all about land-based fun, Siam Park City is Thailand’s largest water park, meaning you’ll definitely get wet here and you’ll have a good time doing so, too.

Not full of big roller coasters and scary drop towers, this is a perfect place to come with children big or small, with some fantastic rides on offer.  There are splash pools, water slides of all different heights, and an artificial beach – you can even ride a log flume out of the mouth  of a lion! What more could you want for a day full of family fun?

Located just east of the Thai capital, this really could be one of the easiest (and most fun) day trips from Bangkok for kids.

#15 – Koh Samet

• Relaxing beach
• Play in the sand

A tropical island located near to Bangkok, this island is a popular beach getaway for Thai families. Just a two and a half hour drive from the hustle and bustle of the city, then a zippy boat ride across to the island itself, it’s easy to see why Koh Samet is a fun day trip from Bangkok with kids.

A day here consists of enjoying the quiet white sand beaches while your children splash around in the clear, shallow waters of the warm sea – all surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

If you’ve only come to Thailand to stay in Bangkok and the surrounding area, and don’t have time to travel to the famous Thai islands much further south, then Koh Samet is a great way to experience a glimmer of those gorgeous destinations.

Lunch – or snacks – is never too far away, thanks to a number of restaurants and beachside vendors that serve up cheap (and tasty) local restaurants. So after you’re full, all you need to do is relax on a lounger and watch your kids play in paradise. Check out Guest House Koh Samet to book accommodation. 

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Bangkok

The lush jungles and the paradise beaches, the ancient temples and picturesque villages, the storied waterways and traditional food… There’s simply too much to see around Bangkok to spend all of your time in the city.

Need to stay near Khao San Road? Our list of the 13 best hostels near Khao San Road is designed to help you find a great hostel – no matter your budget! Need to stay near Phuket Airport? Check out our guide to the 11 best hostels near Phuket Airport .

Usually seen as backpacking destination, Thailand is actually a great place to travel with your partner or even with children. There’s plenty to do to keep everybody entertained – and that’s just in the Bangkok area. But if you are indeed looking to party, check out our  11coolest Party Hostels in Bangkok.

So, whether you want a theme park, a unique market, a paradise island, world history, amazing train rides, luscious countryside, adventurous trekking, there is quite literally all this and more to do on a simple day trip from Bangkok.

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8 Best Day Trips From Bangkok You Need To Try

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Bangkok is rightly the most visited destinations in the world. With so many things to do and places to visit within the city, there is no shortage of unique, fun and adventurous getaways from it. So, lets check out the best day trips from Bangkok you should not be missing out on! 

What Are The Best Day Trips From Bangkok?

1. erawan waterfall & kanchanaburi tour.

Take a day trip to Kanchanaburi, a town which takes you close to nature’s wonders. Rivers, caves, waterfalls and some interesting World War 2 history will be the highlights during your trip. This day trip is a wonderful escape from the everyday hustling and bustling of Bangkok city. The multi leveled Erawan Waterfall located within a national park in Kanchanaburi is a very stunning attraction having refreshing turquoise colored water where you can swim or take a trek up to  the top of the waterfall.

You would also get a chance to board the train and ride along the Death Railway which was used as a supply route by the Japanese army during World War 2. The Death Railway consists of a series of bridges and stone carvings. You will also come across the world famous bridge over River Kwai which is a very picturesque landmark in Kanchanaburi.

Click here to book this fantastic day trip from Bangkok inclusive of hotel transfers, sumptuous Thai lunch, entrance fees and a tour guide. 

Trip Duration : 12 Hours

2. Ayutthaya Day Tour

The historical and fascinating city, Ayutthaya was the ancient capital of Siam from 14th till 18th century. It was invaded and burned down by the Burmese in 1767. Being closely located, a visit to Ayutthaya is one of the most popular day trips from Bangkok. Presently it is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can find ruins of Buddha temples, statues, palaces and monasteries.

During this tour you will be visiting Wat Mahatat which is home to the sacred tree having Buddha head statue surrounded by the tree’s trunk, Wat Lokayasutharam known to have the biggest reclining Buddha in Ayutthaya and many other ruins of ancient temples.

Click here to book this day trip inclusive of transfers to and from your hotel or accomodation, buffet lunch on White Orchid River Cruise and entrance fees to all the sites.

Trip Duration : 9 Hours

3. Khao Yai National Park Jungle Trekking

The Khao Yai National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site offering the most gorgeous landscape views of nature consisting of lush greenery, waterfalls, wildlife, lakes and varieties of flora. Going for a jungle trek to Khao Yai national park is one of the most amazing day trips from Bangkok. You will also be visiting an observation tower from where you can soak in some stunning views of the jungle during this trip. The picturesque Haew Suwat waterfall within the national park featured in the iconic movie “The Beach” is also one of the highlights of this day trip.

Click here to book this day trip inclusive of hotel transfers, traditional Thai lunch, raincoats and anti leech socks for protection and a tour guide.

Trip Duration : 10 Hours

4. Pattaya City and Sanctuary of Truth

Take a day trip to Pattaya from Bangkok and check out all the major attractions this city has to offer. This trip will leave you with so many memories to cherish. Your trip will start with visiting the Sanctuary of truth which is built entirely of wood and decorated by carved sculptures without the use of any metal nails. It is a miraculous structure and an ancient wonder showcasing the knowledge, techniques and wood working skills of the ancient times.

Next you will be heading to Khao Phra Tam Nak hill top from where you will get some gorgeous views of the Pattaya city. Once you are the hill’s foot you would be visiting the famous Pattaya beach where you can spend some relaxing time, sunbathe and enjoy some on beach activities. Close to it are many shopping stores, restaurants and bars where you can spend some time too!

Click here to book this day trip inclusive of hotel transport, toll fees and entrance fees to the Sanctuary of Truth.

5. Damnoen Sadauk Floating Market And Maeklong Train Market

Make a visit to the world famous Damnoen Sadauk Floating Market located at about a 40 minutes distance from Bangkok in the Ratchaburi province. Start your journey by exploring and wandering through the Maeklong Railway Market (aka the umbrella pulldown market). The train passes very closely from the market, such that before it approaches the vendors pull off their shop umbrellas and other belongings located close to the tracks. Once the train passes the vendors spring back the umbrellas and belongings back to the positions close and some over the tracks too.

Next you will be heading to the Damnoen Sadauk Floating Market where you can hop in to a colorful long tail boat and move through the maze of canals. This market has also been featured in a canal chase scene in The Man with the Golden Gun with Roger Moore as James Bond. You can shop from your boat, try out a variety of Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Rice noodle soup and the famous Thai desert Mango with sticky rice.

Don’t miss out this one of the most famous and easiest day trips from Bangkok. Click here to book this day trip inclusive of transfers to and from your hotel/accommodation.

Trip Duration : 6 Hours

Don’t Miss Out Reading : The 12 Best Things To Do In Pai, Thailand

6. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Pattaya

Spend time with the elephants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary located in Pattaya. This sanctuary promotes ethical activities for the tourists where you can feed the freely roaming elephants, enjoy a mud bath with the elephants, touch them, take pictures with them and even interact with them. You can also learn about the elephants, the environment they live in and how they should be taken care of.  If you are traveling with kids, this day trip from Bangkok is a must do since kids will have a great time learning about elephants and also get to know how friendly these animals are.

Click here to book this day trip inclusive of  transportation, guide, photography service and traditional Thai lunch.

Trip Duration : 8 Hours

7. Holy Tattoo Experience from Wat Bang Phra Temple

The Wat Bang Phra Temple is well known and most recommended place to get Sak Yant tattoos done which are believed to have powers of granting good health, protection, wealth and luck. The entire tattoo process is sacred, blessed by the local monks and hand etched using a sharp bamboo stick. During this trip an English speaking guide will be with you to explain the details of the ceremony. He will also make sure that you are comfortable throughout the process. Getting a Sak Yant tattoo done is one of the unique things you could experience during your Thailand visit.

Click here to book this day trip inclusive of hotel transfers, guide and the tattoo fee.

Trip Duration : 4 Hours

8. Eco Zipline Adventure

Soak in some spectacular views from of a Thai rainforest through one of the largest canopy zipline tours in the world. You will be gliding through a canopy via 3 km of zipline wires into the Thai jungle ecosystem. It is a truly flying adventure over the deep jungle including some amazing varieties of flora, fauna and stunning views. This zipline adventure is completely safe and engineered by an international team of world-class adventure builders.

Click here to book this trip inclusive of round trip hotel transfers, 3 hour rainforest canopy adventure, lunch, guide and entrance to Khao Kheow Open Safari.

Trip Duration : 7 Hours

So, here are all the amazing day trips from Thailand which could be a part of your Thai adventures. Let us know which one would you choose in the comment section below. Happy Travels!

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cheerfultrails

Anjali Wadhwa (cheerfultrails) is a travel consultant and enthusiast who has traveled to 15+ countries. She shares about her explorations through her writings. You will find detailed itineraries, best travel tips and well experienced recommendations for food, transportation and hotels on her blog.

18 thoughts on “ 8 Best Day Trips From Bangkok You Need To Try ”

Saving this post! I’m working on a trip to Thailand and this is full of some great ideas. Thanks!!

Thanks for sharing all these day trip ideas. I would love to go to the waterfalls one day!

Detailed information about the places to visit in Thailand. Good for all. Thanks a lot for sharing

The world war II history at Kanchanaburi sounds awful, and I’ve heard of the Death Railway before. I do like to visit places like this to learn about the way prisoners and people were treated during wars, because I think it’s really important that we learn from past mistakes.

I didn’t realize you could visit all of these locations from a day trip from Bangkok! Khao Yai National Park Jungle Trekking looks like so much fun and would be a great activity to escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok for a day. I’d also love to visit the floating market.

Oh the Erawan Waterfall and Kanchanaburi Tour is the one for me! I love waterfalls, so this would be the perfect day!

These are great day trip ides from Bangkok! I had no idea that there was such a range of activities available. The Erawan Waterfall looks really neat with that train journey, looks a little bit treacherous though. Every option on here looks great but I think I would have to go with the jungle trekking on a trip to Bangkok!

I’m still kicking myself for not taking a day trip to Ayutthaya when I was in Bangkok two years ago! Those temples look spectacular, and it seems like such a serene escape from the big city!

Great tips! Not sure about that train eek!! I have done Ayutthaya myself and looveeed it!! So different from the city but easy to get to.

These are some amazing ideas and you’ve given such detail. I have been to Bangkok so many times and all I have done is shop, no matter how many days I spend there…lol. I am definitely planning to do some of these the next time I get there. thanks for sharing 🙂

Wow I had no idea there were so many different day trips out of Bangkok!! I especially love the sound of the eco zipline adventure in the jungle.

Ayutthaya looks like such a great place to explore. Haven’t been to Thailand, but is on my list. I would also love to experience different landscapes when I visit, and Jungle trekking looks perfect. Great tips 😉

Allow me to pin this itinerary for my visit later in the year. I will hopefully will comeback and tell you what I did and what I did not from the list! Thank you for making it easy

I love to know about day trips from popula cities, especially the ones that would help to escape the city crowd. This is the perfect list.

Very detailed and beneficial article for the one who want to visit Thailand. I like the Khao Yai National Park Jungle Trekking and would definitely go there whenever I will get the chance.

Been to ayutthaya and it made a really great day trip. But if you would like to take time to see every temple in the city, a one night trip would be better~

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5 top day trips by train from Bangkok

Safe and green, trains add a real sense of journey to traveling. sure, they’re slow (at least in thailand), but we keep telling you that slow life is all the rage, right celebrating 117 years, the state railway of thailand (srt) is now offering many attractive tours at very affordable prices. here are our picks for the upcoming weekends..

• By Wachiraporn Janrut
• | Mar 14, 2014

Thailand's railways are back in the headlines again with the recent Hollywood release of  The Railway Man (in Bangkok cinemas April 24), a film based on the bestselling autobiography by Eric Lomax, a British POW who was put to work on the infamous death railway in Kanchanaburi during WWII. Now's the time to hop those railway lines that the State Railway of Thailand has kept in their original condition so many years. 

See also:  A Journey of Remembrance to Kanchanaburi

Steam Train Journey to Ayutthaya

To celebrate 117 years of operation, the SRT is offering a series of special day trips by steam train. The next trip is due on  Sunday, March 23 , setting off from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station at 8am and arriving at the Ayutthaya station at 10.30am. From there, an air-con bus will take you to the historic temple of Wat Maheyong on the outskirts of Ayutthaya Island. In the afternoon, you’ll be taken to Hantra Memorial Royalty Park, where you can learn more about the province and its 16 districts, as well as get the chance to do some s hopping at the park’s floating market, which opened last year. You can then get the train back arriving at Bangkok at about 9:30pm. Tickets are B555 per person, which includes return train tickets, transport by air con bus in Ayutthaya, tour guide, snacks and water. If you miss this trip, you have to wait for the following one on August 12 to Nakhon Pathom.

Hua Hin and Suan Son Pradipat

Whether it’s for some fresh sea air or seafood, Hua Hin is our long-term fave weekend escape and the picturesque train station alone is worth a visit. Its historic 1920s architecture and special Royal Waiting Room conjure up images of the golden days of train travel. The train departs Bangkok at 6:30am from Hua Lamphong and stops off at Nakhon Pathom at about 7:40am for passengers to pay respect to Phra Pathom Chedi, Thailand’s largest pagoda, and shop at a local market. The journey continues after 40 minutes and is scheduled to arrive at Hua Hin at 10:30am or you can opt to stay onboard and head down to the quieter beach at Suan Son Pradiphat, the Royal Army’s area with a hotel, a golf course, seafood restaurants and massage places in short walking distance to the secluded beach. At 3:30pm, the train will set off Suan Son Pradiphat and will pick up some passengers at the Hua Hin station at 3:39pm. It’s scheduled to get back to Bangkok at about 9:25pm. The trip runs every Sat, Sun and public holidays. B240 for air-con train and B120 for non air-con, excluding meals.

Erawan Waterfall and Srinakarin Dam

This trip takes off at 6:30am from Hua Lamphong, stops at Nakhon Pathom for 40 minutes and arrives at Kanchanaburi’s River Kwai Bridge at 9:35am. After about 20 minutes at the bridge, you will get in an air-con bus to two wonderful watery destinations: one manmade, one natural. At Srinakarin Dam there will be a tour guide explaining the history of this engineering marvel and taking you on a picturesque tour of the dam. The natural part is a visit to Erawan Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Thailand’s west and it’s striking with seven levels of water falling over 2,000 meters. You can swim in the clear water here so bring swimming gear with you. The train is scheduled to arrive at Bangkok at about 9:25pm. Prices are B620 for non air-con train and B740 for air-con train. Note that foreigners have to pay additional B400 per person to enter Erawan National Park.

Amphawa Floating Market

Available every Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, the day trip to the Amphawa market starts at the Wongwian Yai station, where the train takes off at 7:40am and arrives at Mahachai at 8:39am where you can walk around the market which is famous for dried seafood. Then you will get on a boat crossing to Ban Laem train station to get on another train to Maeklong, home to the renowned Talad Rom Hub (Mae Klong railway market), a unique attraction where you can see the train running through the operating market and sellers have to move their stalls away from the track when it’s approaching. Then you’ll get to see the canal-side way of living at the old Bang Noi and Amphawa floating markets, where you can also have some traditional Thai food and enjoy shopping. At 6:30pm you’ll be transported back to Bangkok by an air-con van which is scheduled to arrive at 8pm. Price is B499, including transport by an air-con van.

Suan Nongnooch, Pattaya

Just a little further from Pattaya, there is a botanical garden for you to relax. For this trip, the train departs Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station at 6:40am, stops to pick up passengers from Makkasan, Klongton, Hua Mark, Hua Takae and Chachoengsao stations and is scheduled to arrive at Pattaya at 10am. You’ll be transported to the Nongnuch Garden, filled with numerous floral species and human-made waterfall. Buffet lunch at the park’s Fuang Fa restaurant is included. In the afternoon, the trip will take you to Pattaya Floating Market where you can shop for local products and have food cooked by sellers on the boats at the market. At 4pm, the train will leave Pattaya and arrive at Hua Lamphong at 7:20pm. Price is B540 per person for air-con train. Available every Sat, Sun and public holidays.

For details, visit www.railway.co.th or call 02-621-8701 or 1690.

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🌍 Help me, LP! What is the one day trip I should take during my short time in Bangkok?

Jan 13, 2023 • 3 min read

On a day trip from Bangkok to Amphawa, you can take a train that goes through the market at Samut Songkhram – literally © vespaFoto / Shutterstock

In this series, Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. When a Thailand -related query came into our inbox, we passed it along to Austin Bush, a 20-plus-year resident of the country and longtime LP guidebook author.

Question: We are planning to spend five days in Bangkok later this month and plan one or two day trips during that time. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations?

Austin Bush: Two options come immediately to mind when considering a day trip from Bangkok .

Visit Ayuthaya’s monuments for history (plus fabulous noodles)

A classic day trip from Bangkok is an excursion to Ayuthaya , Thailand’s former royal capital. Located just 70km (43.5 miles) north of Bangkok, the site is home to some beautiful ruins, as well as some great places to eat. My suggestion would be to take the train , which is slow but comfortable and charming, and affords a taste of the central Thai countryside along the way.

After arriving at Ayuthaya’s tiny train station, cross the river via a ferry and make the short walk to the Ayuthaya Historical Park. Once inside the protected zone, a bicycle is a good way to get around (though I wouldn't recommend riding one on the city’s streets). Highlights include the three imposing stupas at Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the ancient murals deep inside the base of the prang of Wat Ratchaburana . If you’re up for more, head just south of the “island” that forms Ayuthaya’s historical center to Baan Hollanda and the Portuguese Village , sites that document Thailand’s first encounters with the West.

When it’s time to refuel, consider Ayuthaya’s signature dish, boat noodles – so named because they were previously served from tiny barges. These days the dish – rice noodles in a spicy, fragrant pork or beef broth – is served from semi-open-air but fully landlocked venues such as Lung Lek . For something slightly more formal, head to the riverside Pae Krung Gao , a classic Ayuthaya restaurant, and join the locals in ordering a pile of grilled river prawns. For a quick and easy return to Bangkok, hop on a bus or shared van.

A day trip to Amphawa provides a taste of Thai life

For a day trip that’s less about the destination and more about the journey, I’d pitch heading to Amphawa , located 80km (50 miles) southwest of the capital. The trip begins on the Mahachai Line, a rickety commuter train that departs from Thonburi ’s Wong Wian Yai Station.

After an hour of snaking through canal-side villages and semi-urban rice fields, you’ll arrive in the port city of Samut Songkhram (also known as Mahachai). Walk through one of Thailand’s most frenetic fresh markets, then take a ferry followed by a motorcycle taxi to the minuscule train station at Tha Chalong. Here, you’ll hop on yet another rickety caboose that ultimately crashes into the fresh market at Samut Songkhram. I mean this almost literally: market vendors must remove their wares from the tracks every time a train pulls in .

If you’re hungry at this point, consider a mini side trip to Don Hoi Lot , a beachy area where Thais make a beeline for cheap seafood. Otherwise, it’s a brief chartered boat ride or a seat on a bench in the back of a commuter truck to Amphawa. If you’re there on a weekend, you can join hundreds of Thais snacking, shopping and doing touristy things at the Amphawa Floating Market . After you’ve explored this exceedingly charming canal-side town on foot, buses can whisk you back to Bangkok.

If you have a burning travel question you would like Lonely Planet to answer, please contact us here . We will select one question and publish the answer each week.

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Home / Destinations / Thailand / 7 Unforgettable Day Trips from Bangkok, Thailand

7 Unforgettable Day Trips from Bangkok, Thailand

Find the ride you need in.

Looking to escape the city? Not sure where to go for the best day trips from Bangkok? Check out our guide for the best spots, top tips and how to get there.

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

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.

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
• 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.

You can travel to all the destinations on this list as day trips from Bangkok. If you want to go further, Bangkok is the best hub for transportation nationwide.

Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, and Pattaya are just some of the cities close to Bangkok.

Bangkok is a massive city with plenty of things to do. Then add on all the day trips, and you’ll need at least four days

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Exploring Ayutthaya: A Day Trip from Bangkok

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, located just a short train ride from Bangkok, makes for an easy day trip. In this post, I will provide you with all the details of my recent visit.

Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1351 to 1767. It was a major center of trade and commerce, and it was home to a large population of people. The city was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a popular tourist destination.

To get to Bang Pa-In, take Rapid No. 111 from Krung Thep Aphiwat Station at 7:30am. The ticket prices are 20 Baht for 3rd Class and 44 Baht for 2nd Class. Both classes provide open windows and fans. The journey typically takes around 54 minutes.

You should arrive at Bang Pa-In Station at 8:24am. In front of the station there are motorcycle taxis that will take you to the nearby Summer Palace for 20 Baht. It’s only about four minutes away.

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace was built in the 17th century as a summer retreat but was largely abandoned for many years following the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767. It was restored by King Rama IV in the mid-19th century. It features a mix of Thai, Chinese, and European influences.

Adjacent to the palace, you’ll find an extraordinary Buddhist temple known as Wat Niwet Thammaprawat. To access it, you must take a cable car, as the temple is on an island. What sets this temple apart is its Gothic-style architecture, stained-glass windows and gargoyles.

To return to the station, turn right out of the car park and walk a few minutes to the nearby 7-11. From there, you can take a motorcycle to the station for 20 Baht or a Tuk Tuk for 30 Baht. It’s best to buy refreshments at the 7-11 before heading to the station.

You have around two hours in Bang Pa-In. The next train is Ordinary No. 201 that leaves at 11:14am. The ticket price for the short 13-minute journey to Ayutthaya is only 3 Baht. This train goes from Hua Lamphong Station and seems to be more popular with foreign tourists.

You will arrive at Ayutthaya Station at 11:27am. There’s an air-conditioned restaurant on the platform if you want to have an early lunch or just a coffee.

Before you leave the station, take a photo of the trains back to Bangkok. You will probably be here around 5 hours. So aim for the 4:37pm or the 6:38pm trains which will cost you 15-20 Baht. If you want air-conditioned comfort, then catch No. 8 at 6:06pm. But it’s 341 Baht.

In front of the station, ignore the Tuk Tuk touts as they will cheat you. Opposite the station there’s a lane that leads down to the river. Here you will find Tuk Tuk’s that will show you around for 200 Baht an hour. Or rent a bicycle for 60 Baht for the day.

This is the map of Ayutthaya they will give you. Three to four hours on a bicycle is probably enough if it’s a hot day. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. If you want more, then go to Wat Yai Chai Mongkon and Wat Phanan Chaeng.

Here are the highlights of Ayutthaya Historical Park, as recommended by the Tuk Tuk drivers: I would suggest skipping the elephant riding and the floating market, but the rest are definitely worth visiting.

At the bottom of the lane from the station, there is a boat that can take you across the river for 15 Baht, which is a better option than using the road bridge. However, you might want to consider renting a bicycle on the other side instead of taking it on the boat.

Most places in Ayutthaya Historical Park will cost you 50 Baht each. It’s best not to try and do too much as some are very similar. I would say around four stops would be enough.

There are many places to eat in Ayutthaya, but this restaurant is famous for river prawns. Click for map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/R8zTUehchBgXSPDB7?g_st=ic

I’ve put together a google map of the places that I mentioned in this thread about my day trip to Ayutthaya. Visit it here:

📍Day Trip to Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ScwLcNzNrWhFMkB4A?g_st=i

This trip will be available as a free PDF soon on www.ThaiTrainGuide.com

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 15 Best Day Trips from Bangkok

15 Best Day Trips from Bangkok

Bangkok is quite possibly the most exciting, enchanting and enlightening city on earth.

With sprawling street markets, magnificent temples and palaces and countless fragrant food stalls to explore you could spend a lifetime in this city and still come back begging for more.

Although there is a myriad of adventures to be had in Bangkok there are too innumerable opportunities for exploration outside the city limits.

From world famous floating markets to off the beaten track national parks Thailand is waiting to ignite your wanderlust and inspire your passion for travel once more.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Bangkok :

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

One of the most iconic snap shots of Thailand is of the floating markets.

As such, no trip to this magical nation would be complete without spending a day getting to grips with local culture and sampling everything these wondrous markets have to offer.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market sits in the Ratchaburi Province, just an hour and a half from Bangkok city centre.

Throughout the course of a day you can take a long boat down the canal stopping at each of the floating stalls.

Be sure to sample local favourites such as Pad Thai and coconut ice cream.

2. Ayutthaya

The ancient city of Ayutthaya is the capital of Siam and a simply incredible day trip from Bangkok.

The Ayutthaya complex is a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so, this gem must be preserved forever more.

With dozens of temples to explore be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring a bottle of water.

Wat Mahathat, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Na Phra Mane are all ruined palaces that give a sense of mystery to the day.

What was life like here in ancient times? Don’t miss the photogenic Head of Buddha which sits nestled away in the roots of a tree trunk at Wat Mahathat.

3. Kanchanaburi

Have you heard of the bridge on the River Kwai? Well, you’ll find this word famous historical landmark in Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok.

A day trip to Kanchanaburi is harrowing and humbling, learning about how the Death Railway was constructed and the thousands of lives that were lost.

Take the time to visit the JEATH War Museum to learn more about this tragic point in history and pay respect to the soldiers who perished in the war at the cemetery adjacent to the museum.

To this day it is still possible to ride along the Death Railway track and despite the horrid history the view is quite spectacular.

Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, adored by international traveller and locals alike.

This lively and colourful city was once a small, humble fishing village.

Now the streets are adorned with high rising hotel complexes, flashing neon lights and dozens of western style bars and eateries.

There is still some resemblances of the Pattaya of yesteryear in the form of the Sanctuary of Truth and Wat Phra Yai Temple.

The real draw to Pattaya for many is picturesque Jomtien Beach.

Being one of the closest coastal areas to Bangkok, Pattaya beach is often busy but there’s always space for another sun worshipper or two.

5. Rose Garden Thai Village

If you are seeing a relaxing and peaceful day out then a visit to the Rose Garden Thai Village is the perfect day trip for you.

These immaculately manicured gardens are some of the finest you will find in all of Southeast Asia.

Fusing horticulture and local culture together a visit to the Rose Garden will see you enjoy rows upon rows of near perfect roses and a taste of authentic Thai culture too.

Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to watch traditional Thai dance and visit traditional Thai houses too.

The whole complex spans an impressive 55 acres and features its own handicraft market and local food court too.

6. Khao Yai National Park

The Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s national treasures.

Spanning over five different protected areas the Khao Yai National Park reaches the Cambodian border.

Depending on your fitness level and how active you wish to be there are a number of different options for you to enjoy.

You can take a raft out on Khun Dan Prakan Chon Chan and enjoy the waterfall and man made reservoir.

A popular choice is to take a hike up to Wang Ta Kari Waterfall and then again to Haew Narok Waterfall.

Both of these hikes require minimal fitness level and offer spectacular views of the Thai natural forest areas.

7. Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market is one of the most unique markets in the world.

Not only a floating market but the stalls of Amphawa are situated along the tracks of a busy, working railway line.

This night market is a real treat to explore, as the sun sets over the Mae Klong River you can sit back with a Chang or perhaps a Leo beer and watch the fireflies dance on the horizon.

You can pick up all manner of weird and wonderful handicrafts, souvenirs and knock-off clothing, There is so much food to enjoy, from zingy papaya salad to fried mussels your taste buds will have never been treated so good.

8. Khao Yai Vineyard

Did you know that there is a thriving wine industry in Thailand? Well, there is, on the border of Khao Yai national park.

This is a really relaxing day trip that sees you hop aboard the vineyard tram and be transported through the 1000 acres of vineyards and plantations.

Naturally the highlight of the day is to sample some of the amazing wines produced from the vineyards.

You will have time to take a tour, on foot, of the grape vines and other fruit plantations and learn about the production process and how the land is sustainably managed.

9. Koh Si Chang

Koh Si Chang is the perfect island escape for those keen to explore Thailand’s picture perfect coastline.

You can catch a ride out to Koh Loi Pier and jump aboard a local ferry that will shuttle you out to beautiful Koh Si Chang island.

You can spend the day lazing on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun, or get out and about and explore.

The Summer Palace is an architectural dream and was built under the reign of King Rama V. On the hillside adjacent to the Summer Palace you will find Wat Asdangkhanimitr that features the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree which is said to be a sapling of the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India.

10. Hua Hin

Hua Hin is a toned down version of Pattaya, for those who fancy a more low key affair.

Sitting on the Gulf of Thailand Hua Hin has a wonderful beach and borders the Kaeng Krachan National Park.

The Cicada Market is one of the many sprawling markets to explore and really comes alive at night.

Plearnwan is a hipster, vintage-style hang out where you’ll find dozens of indie shops and family run eateries.

The Mrigadayavan Palace was once the Thai royal family’s beach retreat and it is built on raised stilts that offer wonderful views of the vast garden complex below.

Hua Hin is a must-visit spot for kite surfers and lovers of water sports.

11. Talad Khlong Suan

The floating market of Talad Khlong Suan is one of the oldest markets in Thailand, for the canal itself was created over 100 years ago.

The Talad Khlong Suan market floats along the idyllic Prawet Burirom Canal in Samut Prakan Province.

You can take a longboat ride through the market sampling local sweet treats and spicy surprises along the way.

Talad Khlong Suan is one of the best markets to buy wooden handicrafts and as you are buying direct from the source you can be sure that both you and the local artisan are getting a fair price.

12. Wat Saman Rattanaram

Wat Saman Rattanaram is home to the largest reclining Ganesh statue in Thailand.

This bright pink elephant deity stands 16 m tall and 22 m in length and has to be seen to be believed.

A visit to Wat Saman Rattanaram gives insights into the links and lineages between the Hindi and Buddhists faiths.

Around the temple complex there are dozens of stalls selling statues of Buddhist and Hindu gods and goddesses.

Remember though, it is illegal to take images and statues of the Lord Buddha out of Thailand and your purchases can be seized by Thai customs upon your departure from the country.

13. Koh Kret

The tiny island of Koh Kret sits at the heart of the Chao Phraya River.

Best known as a settlement for the Mon people Koh Kret is an off the beaten track tourist destination that is a joy to visit.

This island is famous for its terracotta which can be observed at the Kwan Aman Museum.

To this day native Mon people work in their potteries along the banks of the river.

If you are interested in Buddhism and enjoy wandering through temples then be sure to head to the north of Koh Kret Island to visit Wat Poramai Yikawat.

This sacred temple features an inspiring reclining Buddha and leaning stupa.

14. DreamWorld

DreamWorld is Thailand’s best loved theme park and is home to over forty different rides and attractions.

A whole heap of fun for all the family, DreamWorld puts a smile on the face of all who visit.

The highlight of a visit to DreamWorld is an adrenaline filled ride on the Tornado.

For youngsters Fantasy Land is a lovely area of the park to visit.

Here you’ll find Sleeping Beauty and an interactive 4D adventure experience.

Dream Garden is the best place to take a moment of rest in the heat of the day before tearing off into Snow Town and Adventure Land.

15. Samut Prakan

The Samut Prakan is the most centralised province in Thailand and is very easily accessible from Bangkok.

The first port of call should be the breathtaking Ancient City of Mueang Boran with its amazing collection of temples and ruined palaces.

The Erawan Museum features an incredible array of traditional Thai artistry, from statues to furniture and beyond.

The most impressive item in the collection is the enormous three headed elephant statue.

Like the reclining Ganesh at Wat Saman Rattanaram it must be seen to be believed.

The King Rama IX Park is a beautifully kept garden complex featuring a man made lake with fish to feed.

15 Best Day Trips from Bangkok:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Kanchanaburi
• Rose Garden Thai Village
• Khao Yai National Park
• Amphawa Floating Market
• Khao Yai Vineyard
• Koh Si Chang
• Talad Khlong Suan
• Wat Saman Rattanaram
• Samut Prakan

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Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok 2024: Bangkok Travel Guide

August 30, 2024

Check the best things to do in Bangkok. Find out about Bangkok's top attractions, the best food, hotels, transportation, and everything you need to know for your Bangkok trip.

Bangkok Basic Info for Tourists

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city that never sleeps. With its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and stunning temples, there's no shortage of things to do in Bangkok. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Bangkok has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll take you through the best things to do in Bangkok Thailand in 2024, including top attractions, must-try foods, and recommended accommodations.

Some fun facts about Bangkok🤣

• Bangkok is officially known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai.💐
• Bangkok attracts around 15 million tourists annually, making it one of the world's most popular cities. 💋
• Bangkok is the world's hottest city with an annual mean air temperature of 28°C.🌞
• Bangkok's Chinatown, known as Yaowarat, is reputed to be the largest in the world and is famous for its cuisine and affordable goods.✨

Best Time to Visit Bangkok and What to Wear

Bangkok enjoys a tropical climate, making it warm all year round. However, the best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. The rainy season from June to October can also be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds, though you'll need to be prepared for sudden showers.

• Winter (November to February): Pleasant weather (24°C to 31°C), ideal for sightseeing.💙
• Summer (March to May): Hot weather (27°C to 35°C), great for experiencing local festivals like Songkran.💖
• Rainy Season (June to October): Warm and humid (25°C to 32°C), frequent rain, fewer tourists.💚

Check the table below to decide your best times to visit Bangkok: 👀

Get connected in Bangkok

More about Thailand eSIM

How to get to bangkok: flight deals.

To travel to Bangkok from the USA, Singapore, Australia, the UK, and other European countries, the quickest and most convenient way is to book a direct flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) from major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, and London. You can find great flight deals on Trip.com . Check out the cheap flight deals to Bangkok below

Pls find Cheap Flight Deals to Bangkok below 👇👇🎁

Bangkok Transportation Guide

How to Get Around Bangkok

Bangkok offers a variety of convenient transportation options, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway, buses, tuk-tuks, taxis, motorbike taxis, and boats. These modes of transport provide efficient and affordable ways to explore the vibrant city. Transportation Options in Bangkok:

• BTS Skytrain: The BTS Skytrain is a fast and efficient way to travel around Bangkok, with two main lines covering key areas of the city. Tickets range from 16 to 59 THB, and trains run every 3-7 minutes.
• MRT Subway : The MRT Subway complements the BTS Skytrain by covering additional areas of Bangkok. Ticket prices range from 16 to 42 THB, with trains arriving every 5-7 minutes.
• Buses : Bangkok's bus network is extensive and offers the most economical way to travel. Ticket prices range from 8 to 24 THB, but buses can be less reliable due to traffic.
• Tuk-tuks : Tuk-tuks are a popular and iconic mode of transport in Bangkok, ideal for short trips. Prices are negotiable and typically range from 30 to 150 THB.
• Taxis : Taxis are widely available and offer a comfortable way to travel, especially for longer distances. The base fare is 35 THB, with an additional 5.50 THB per kilometer.
• Motorbike Taxis : Motorbike taxis are a quick and convenient option for short distances, especially in heavy traffic. Prices are negotiable and generally range from 10 to 100 THB.
• Boats : Boats provide a scenic and unique way to travel along Bangkok's rivers and canals. Ticket prices range from 10 to 40 THB, with services running every 10-20 minutes.
• Rent a car with Trip.com and enjoy 12% off on your booking! Planning to explore Bangkok and its surroundings? Choose from a variety of models to suit your needs:

Bangkok Airport Transportation

From Bangkok airports (Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport) to downtown Bangkok, multiple transportation options are available.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

• Airport Rail Link : Direct train to central Bangkok. Operates from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM. One-way ticket costs 45 THB ($1.30), with a travel time of about 30 minutes.
• Airport Bus (S1) : Direct bus service to Khao San Road. Runs from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Ticket price is 60 THB ($1.80), with a travel time of about 60 minutes.
• Taxis : Available 24/7. Metered fare to central Bangkok is approximately 300-500 THB ($9-$15), plus a 50 THB airport surcharge. Travel time is about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Don Mueang Airport (DMK)

• A1 Bus : Direct bus to Mo Chit BTS Station. Operates from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Ticket price is 30 THB ($0.90), with a travel time of about 20-30 minutes.
• A2 Bus : Direct bus to Victory Monument. Runs from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Ticket price is 30 THB ($0.90), with a travel time of about 40-60 minutes.
• Taxis : Available 24/7. Metered fare to central Bangkok is approximately 200-400 THB ($6-$12), plus a 50 THB airport surcharge. Travel time is about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

What are the Main Attractions in Bangkok

Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun meet modern marvels like King Power Mahanakhon Sky Walk. Stroll through the lively Khaosan Road and visit the iconic Erawan Shrine.

For family fun, head to Safari World or Dream World. Just outside the city, explore the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and cultural treasures like Muangboran and the Erawan Museum. Bangkok promises an unforgettable adventure for all!

Here is a guide to some of the must-visit sites in Bangkok 💗

Check out the details about these attractions below. 👇👇👇

Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

Things to do in Bangkok #1: The Grand Palace

A symbol of Bangkok's royal heritage and a must-visit for tourists, this Siamese-style palace complex showcases the finest in Thai painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; be sure to snap a photo with the Royal Guards in their distinctive white uniforms.

*Opening hours may differ. Please confirm the opening hours for specific days.

Things to do in Bangkok #2: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

Wat Arun, located along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok Yai District, is a prominent Buddhist temple known for its central Khmer-style tower. The exterior is adorned with glazed porcelain tiles and seashells, making it shine brilliantly, especially in the early morning light. It once housed the famous Emerald Buddha before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in 1785. As one of Bangkok’s most beloved temples, Wat Arun is a must-see attraction for visitors.

Things to do in Bangkok #3: SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is a comprehensive ocean-themed scenic spot that integrates exploring the mysterious ocean, visiting marine life exhibitions, and popularizing ocean science knowledge. Here you can enjoy 30,000 marine creatures, spanning more than 400 marine species. There are 6 In the theme exhibition area, not only can you enjoy all kinds of rare marine animals, but you can also interact closely and appreciate the marine ecology up close.

Things to do in Bangkok #4: Chao Phraya River

The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, offering beautiful views of the city’s landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river to see sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Many cruises offer dinner and live music for a memorable experience.

Things to do in Bangkok #5: Golden Dome Cabaret Show

The Palais Garnier is a stunning opera house and a masterpiece of 19th-century theater architecture. Visitors can tour the grand foyer, the chandeliered auditorium, and the museum of the Opera House. The Palais Garnier is also home to the Paris Opera Ballet.

Things to do in Bangkok #6: Safari World Bangkok

Located next to Fashion Island Shopping Center, transportation is very convenient. It contains two major parks: Safari Park and Marine Park. The safari park brings together many rare wild animals from around the world, visiting the homes of giraffes, zebras, tigers and lions. Performances in the Marine Park include dolphins, sea lions, etc. and some Thai folk performances.

Things to do in Bangkok #7: King Power Mahanakhon Sky Walk

With this ticket, you'll be soaring to the rooftop of the observation deck in 50 seconds. Reach the top of Bangkok's skyline and enjoy stunning views of the entire city - the views are spectacular day or night. Walk through the huge glass-floored skywalk and be 310 meters above the bustling Thai capital.

Things to do in Bangkok #8: Wonderful Pearl Cruise

The Bright Pearl is a new ship on the Chao Phraya River. It has three floors and a fountain . It is very fashionable and atmospheric. "Operation Mekong" was also shot here. In addition to a variety of buffets, there are live romantic jazz bands and traditional song and dance performances on board, so that your time on the Chao Phraya River will not be wasted.

Things to do in Bangkok #9: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace, it is the symbol of Bangkok and a must-visit place when traveling in Thailand. Royal families of all ages have held important ceremonies here. Occupying a quarter of the entire Grand Palace, the temple's magnificent architecture and dazzling gold and jade combine the characteristics of all Thai Buddhist temples. There are pagodas standing like a forest in the temple, with different shapes and bright colors, which are very spectacular.

Things to do in Bangkok #10: Erawan Shrine

The Four-Faced Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand, is known for its efficacy. For this reason, the Buddha is widely admired and highly sought after by the stars and celebrities of Hong Kong and Taiwan. Because it is located near large shopping malls like the Central World, it has also become a famous tourist attraction in Bangkok. In Thailand and Southeast Asia, the Four-Faced Buddha is considered a benevolent god. The Four-faced Buddha in Bangkok is in the Erawan Shrine amd the statue of the god is about 4 meters high. There are four faces altogether, which represent the four virtues of compassion, empathy, joy and charity. Those who pray for spiritual ascension must work hard to cultivate these four virtues.

Things to do in Bangkok #11: Muangboran the Ancient City (Samut Prakan)

"A thousand years of Siam, a day in the ancient city."

The Ninth Emperor of Thailand conferred the title of national cultural heritage. The Ninth Emperor of Thailand and Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom attended the opening ceremony in person. It brings together classic Internet celebrities, film and television bases, Buddhist holy sites, historical sites, folk culture, and floating markets.

After more than half a century and tens of billions of dollars spent on carving, it is a cultural treasure and a wonder of Thailand that will never be completed. In the ancient city, every leaf, every stone, and every stream whispers the story of the years, waiting for you to wear Thai clothes and travel through the nearly 800 years of ancient Siam history, just like you came to my arms, let me live in your heart, and we will love you forever.

Things to do in Bangkok #12: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located in southwest Bangkok about 2 hours away by car. The market still maintains the flavor of old water markets in Thailand. The market dates back more than 100 years. Many movies have been filmed here, including one in the James Bond series. The market generally lasts from early morning until around 2 pm, and you will see local people wearing straw hats and rowing boats carrying vegetables, fruit, and small goods in canals lined with tropical trees. The boats traverse the narrow waterways as vendors hawk their goods. This is still a portrait of life in Bangkok.

Things to do in Bangkok #13: Calypso Cabaret

Don't miss the impersonations of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley, exaggerated and comical performances, and the enchanting Thai dance performance. Make a reservation for dinner at Cripso Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while watching traditional Thai classical dance before the cabaret show. The Cripso Cabaret Show is located in the lively dining and entertainment center - Asiatique Riverside Pier Night Market. Let's enjoy an exciting and unforgettable night together.

Things to do in Bangkok #14: The Erawan Museum

The Erawan Museum weighs 250 tons and is about 16 stories high. It is carved from pure copper. Through the elevator in the elephant's legs, you can lead to the museum in the belly of the elephant to explore the mysteries of Thailand's elephant god culture. Feel the charm of architectural culture and religious art.

Things to do in Bangkok #15: Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium

Rajadamnern is one of the well-known local competition venues in Bangkok. Whenever the competition, it will gather Muay Thai players from all over Thailand. It was built before the Second World War and was only completed in 1941. When it was first built, it was an open-air plaza without a house. Later, it was slowly remodeled and kept up with the times. Now the Rajadamnern Muay Thai Plaza has become a symbol of great significance. venue. There are regular games every week here. At this time, the entire venue is full of people and seats are full. Many fanatic fans prefer to stand and watch the game, so that they can fully experience the lively atmosphere of the scene. If tourists from other places do not understand the charm of Muay Thai, they may not understand their madness. This is a very violent and bloody match. There is no fake and no show. Many passionate young people come from afar to watch a real Muay Thai match.

Things to do in Bangkok #16: Khaosan Road

When talking about Bangkok, you have to talk about Khao San Road. Khao San Road is the spirit of the city’s nightlife and a base camp for backpackers. In fact, Khao San Road is just 300 meters long, and walking the length of the road only takes about 15 minutes. However, its crowdedness at night is astounding. There are various classes of hotels and flophouses, shops, travel agencies, currency exchanges, restaurants of all flavors, bars, cafes, massage parlors, and local specialty stores along the road. If you want to know the life in Bangkok, you can come here.

Things to do in Bangkok #17: Royal Princess Cruises

Enjoy a 2-hour dinner cruise along Bangkok's main waterways with Royal Princess Cruises. Marvel at the city's temples and other historical monuments. Board a safe and comfortable cruiser and experience the Chao Phraya River at night. Enjoy riverside views from the open-air upper deck. Take in the sight of Bangkok's landmarks and monuments illuminated at night as you enjoy a sumptuous dinner buffet featuring international cuisine accompanied by soothing music.

Things to do in Bangkok #18: Madame Tussauds BANGKOK

Southeast Asia's premier wax museum, which houses not only political figures from various countries, but also various cultural and sports stars. Visit eight unique areas of the museum, each with interactive features you can engage with to enrich your visit. Learn about the fine art of wax carving in authentic historical exhibits.

Things to do in Bangkok #19: Dream World

Known as “Thailand Disney”, it is a fantasy park full of fairy tale colors! Exciting and thrilling rides, lively and interesting cartoon character performances, models of the Seven Wonders of the World, and all the fun of skiing in Snow Town. Try local specialties and take home unique souvenirs.

Things to do in Bangkok #20: Bangkok Shooting Range

The large shooting distance is 25 meters, you can shoot in the same scene and enjoy the thrills. Professional coaches are always on hand to guide you. Beginners, women and even respected seniors can enjoy safe and enjoyable shooting. For amateur or professional shooters looking to level up their skills, they love a place to practice their shooting skills and rate their shooting ability, as well-trained officers can provide private instruction and follow the directions for individual training . And our shooting range can meet that need.

Top 5 Things to Eat in Bangkok

Bangkok Food #1: Paste Bangkok

Dine like Thai royalty at the 1-Michelin-starred Paste Bangkok. Enjoy a 7-course lunch tasting menu for 2300 baht (~HKD 510) per person . Led by one of Asia's top female chefs, Paste offers innovative Thai cuisine inspired by traditional royal recipes. Each dish is rich in flavor and texture, providing a memorable experience for those who appreciate exotic tastes.

Bangkok Food #2: Mezzaluna

The Michelin-starred Mezzaluna offers a stunning night-time dining experience with surprise courses. Located on the 65th floor of the Lotus Tower, it boasts breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. The restaurant features top-quality ingredients flown in daily from France and Japan, including Hokkaido deep-sea Hichiji, Miyagi Yamashima Sakura hook kiss, Toyama Sakura squid, Niigata A5 beef, Oshitra caviar, French Bresse chicken, and Nagasaki red sea urchin. With meticulous attention to detail from Chef Kawasaki and an enthusiastic service team, Mezzaluna promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Bangkok Food #3: R-HAAN

This luxurious Thai restaurant in Bangkok features bright and elegant decor. However, it can be a bit tricky to find as it is often located in a small alley. The dishes are somewhat spicy, but they suit the taste perfectly, and every marinade is exceptionally delicious. The Tom Yum Goong soup and curry fish come highly recommended for their outstanding flavors.

Bangkok Food #4: Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin

Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin, located in the Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, is the Bangkok branch of the Michelin-starred Kiin Kiin from Denmark, founded by Chef Henrik Yde Andersen. This restaurant offers a serene atmosphere, innovative Thai cuisine, and top-tier service, all meeting Michelin standards. Despite the high quality, the prices are quite reasonable. Consistently ranked among Asia's top 50 restaurants, Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin is an experience not to be missed.

Bangkok Food #5: Paii

Entering the restaurant, diners are greeted by the soothing scent of wood and gentle lighting that highlights the elegant tableware. The refined decor sets the stage for top-quality dishes, such as tender Spanish salmon with XO sauce oysters, which evoke a seaside experience. Following the seafood appetizers, the menu offers delights like juicy charcoal-grilled steaks, Thai-flavored Hokkaido steaks, and Roche marsh shrimps. Desserts maintain the high standard, providing visual and taste satisfaction. Seafood lovers should not miss this restaurant.

5 Best hotels in Bangkok

Check Best Hotels Near Key Attractions in Bangkok 🏨🏨

Bangkok Hotels #1: NASA BANGKOK

NASA Bangkok is located at 44 Sukhumvit 71 Rd. It offers amenities such as public parking, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, a conference room, and luggage storage. Nearby attractions include Rajamangala National Stadium and Terminal 21 Shopping Mall. This hotel is known for its convenient location for sports and shopping enthusiasts.

NASA BANGKOK

Check Availability

Bangkok Hotels #2: Royal Rattanakosin Hotel

Royal Rattanakosin Hotel is situated at 2 Rajdamnoen Avenue. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a bar, and currency exchange services. It is close to Khaosan Road and the Grand Palace, making it ideal for exploring cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife.

Royal Rattanakosin Hotel

Swimming Pools

Bangkok Hotels #3: Hi Hotel Bangkok

Hi Hotel Bangkok can be found at 649 Thanon Asok - Din Daeng, Khwaeng Din Daeng. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a casino, a library, an executive lounge, a tea room, airport pick-up service, and luggage storage. It is near Supalai Park Asok-Ratchada and P. M. Tower, offering a blend of entertainment and relaxation options.

Hi Hotel Bangkok

Airport pickup service

Pets allowed

Bangkok Hotels #4: Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok

Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok is located at 707 Lat Phrao 130, Khlong Chan, Bang Kapi. The hotel features free Wi-Fi, a gym, private parking, luggage storage, and a conference room. Nearby attractions include Ridwanun Islam Mosque and the Church Of Covenant Bangkok. This hotel is great for guests looking for a peaceful and religious environment.

Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok

Bangkok hotels #5: sotetsu grand fresa bangkok.

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Bangkok is situated at 7, Sukhumvit 25 Alley, Khlong Toei Nuea, Wattana. It offers free Wi-Fi, a breakfast buffet, and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel is close to The Cowboy Street and Kamthieng House Museum, making it perfect for those interested in local culture and nightlife.

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Bangkok

Faqs about bangkok travel, how can i get around bangkok, is it safe to eat street food in bangkok, what is the local currency and how can i exchange money, is bangkok expensive to travel.

Things to Do in Bangkok

• 1. Bangkok Basic Info for Tourists
• 2. Best Time to Visit Bangkok and What to Wear
• 3. How to Get to Bangkok: Flight Deals
• 4. Bangkok Transportation Guide
• 5. What are the Main Attractions in Bangkok
• 6. Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok
• 7. Top 5 Things to Eat in Bangkok
• 8. 5 Best hotels in Bangkok

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Ranking the 50 best countries for affordable travel

(Stacker) – Traveling abroad can be an expensive proposition. But with international travel rates up and economic factors favoring American travelers, many global destinations are more affordable than domestic travel for U.S. jet-setters—especially now.

Four years after international travel ground to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, more than  285 million tourists  in the first quarter of 2024 traveled internationally, 97% of 2019 levels, according to the United Nations. That metric results from a strong dollar, lower costs of living in some countries, depreciation of some currencies, and the long-awaited return of travel rates to pre-pandemic levels.

Stacker  created an index for bargain hunters looking to travel abroad this fall. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a favorite destination for globetrotters with permanent wanderlust, this fall is prime time to travel. And while summer is high-season for tourists, taking a vacation in the off-season has its perks: Kids are back in school, the weather in many destinations is cooler but still pleasant, and prices are right for bargain-hunters.

Some destinations are much more affordable than others

Recent economic trends have put dollar-carrying Americans in a good position to travel in many parts of the world. In 2022, when inflation spiked worldwide, central banks responded by raising interest rates. The U.S. economy fared better relative to many other countries, which in turn led the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high. The dollar became more valuable as a result.

Local goods and services, such as hotel stays and restaurant meals, became more affordable for Americans. Airline prices—dependent in part on the price of oil—have been affected little by these global shifts.

However, even including airfare, the total cost of trips to desirable destinations like Japan is a relative bargain because of recent currency movements. As of July 2024, the Japanese yen traded at more than 150 per dollar, its highest rate since the mid-1980s. The yen was trading at 105 per dollar at this point five years ago. The yen has ticked up in recent weeks, but its value still remains historically low compared to the dollar, and Japanese shops and restaurants are about one-third cheaper than they would have been had the yen not fallen since 2019.

Some tourist-friendly countries on our list have long been affordable for Americans to visit and remain so today. In addition to their natural wonders, emerging economies such as Thailand are highly affordable for travelers. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant in Bangkok  costs just $28 , according to Numbeo data. In contrast, a similar meal in Kansas City, Missouri, would cost $70—or $130 in New York City.

Ready to pack your bags? Not quite.

Before booking your tickets, check visa requirements. While American passport holders can visit many countries without prior arrangements, some nations on our list, such as India and China, require tourists to secure visas before arrival. The State Department provides  up-to-date information  on travel requirements.

Our guide for travel bargains

For our analysis, Stacker built a travel index that accounts for what matters most to travelers. Key criteria were a country’s appeal, costs, and relative bargain compared to its pricing five years ago. We used several data sources—including the  U.S. News & World Report ‘s tourism ranking, Numbeo for restaurant prices,  Google  for data on exchange rates and flight prices, and  Priceline.com  for hotel prices—to rank each nation accordingly.

Calculations are based on a seven-day stay at a three-star hotel in one of the major tourist cities in each country. Estimated food costs are based on the price of two meals per day at sit-down restaurants that serve three-course meals. For the sake of simplicity, we assume travelers are flying out of Kansas City, which is roughly at the center of the lower 48 states. International flights from major travel hubs such as Los Angeles or New York tend to be cheaper.

The data is current as of July 2024, looking ahead to September dates for hotels and flights. Prices depicted are averages: Actual costs will vary depending on when flights are booked, hotel quality, preferred activities at each destination, and other factors.

Our rankings do not factor in every variable, including levels of risk. The State Department has  a list of travel advisories  that rate the risk of crime, terrorist activity, and other dangers for American tourists. For example, Egypt ranks highly as a tourist destination, yet the State Department’s ranking advises Americans to “reconsider travel.” Travelers should always review travel advisories before booking a trip.

These rankings illustrate that while some popular tourist destinations can be expensive, travelers who keep an eye on exchange rates and plan ahead can find great deals.

#50. Luxembourg

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #42

-Popular tourist city: Luxembourg

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $920

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $210

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $90

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -2.6%

The small European country of Luxembourg can make for a great weekend trip, especially when combined with stops in neighboring countries ranking higher on this list. Make your money stretch further by using public transportation: All buses and trains are free to the public. Movie lovers will get a kick out of Cinémathèque, a cinema that also preserves the country’s film heritage.

BBA Photography // Shutterstock

#49. Denmark

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #23

-Popular tourist city: Copenhagen

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $790

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $120

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -2.5%

Copenhagen touts itself as one of the world’s best cities for biking, with plenty of places to rent and ride. Nearly half of local residents commute to work or school by bike, so avoid rush hour if there’s a chance you’ll feel overwhelmed by such traffic. When you’re done pedaling, jump on a boat for a local tour of the canals.

Q world // Shutterstock

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #41

-Popular tourist city: Doha

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,140

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $80

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $50

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 0.0%

Book lovers must add Doha to their list, if only for the Qatar National Library: a public library with more than a million books housed in a sleek, modern space. Next, visit the Falcon Souq to get close to the bird that is unique to Qatari culture. Then, explore Qatar’s outdoors by traveling west of Doha to Dahl Al Misfir, a 131-foot-deep cave that formed over 325,000 years ago.

#47. Czechia

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #50

-Popular tourist city: Prague

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $890

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $100

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -1.3%

There are plenty of cultural sites to take in in Czechia’s capital city of Prague. But an hour outside the city, you’ll find Bohemian Paradise, the most popular tourist destination in the country. The Bohemia lands found here have historically been popular with artists due to its astounding landscape. Sandstone pinnacle rock formations jut out of the ground, and castle ruins dot the area.

#46. Switzerland

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #6

-Popular tourist city: Zurich

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $840

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $310

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $130

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 11.7%

Switzerland is one of the most expensive places to visit, and Zurich is no exception. However, visitors on a budget can get acquainted with the city by strolling the pedestrian-friendly streets. Climb the 187 steps to Grossmünster Church for a beautiful city view. Don’t forget to try Swiss chocolate at one of the town’s many chocolate shops. If you’re looking for a family-owned chocolatier, Vollenweider Chocolatier Confiseur’s treats are defined by quality and craftsmanship.

#45. Singapore

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #14

-Popular tourist city: Singapore

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,290

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $150

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $70

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 1.5%

Your adventure in Singapore starts before you leave the Jewel Changi Airport, where you’ll find the tallest indoor waterfall, indoor garden trails, and a dinosaur trek that incorporates augmented reality. Once you get into the city-state, stop for a bite at Maxwell Food Centre, with its hundreds of food stalls. Standout dishes include chicken rice, dim sum, and oyster cakes.

Jon Chica // Shutterstock

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #46

-Popular tourist city: Santiago

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $870

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $90

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 0.5%

This long and narrow South American nation has a massively diverse climate, from glaciers in the south to desert land in the north and the Andes mountains throughout. Visitors can find Chile’s acclaimed wine regions stretching across the country, the most popular being in the Central Valley.

#43. United Arab Emirates

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #30

-Popular tourist city: Dubai

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,130

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $50

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $80

The United Arab Emirates is the land of superlatives. Here, you’ll find the tallest building, the deepest swimming pool, and the fastest rollercoaster in the world. There are also sprawling shopping malls, with plenty of air conditioning to relieve visitors from the hot and dry year-round heat. Go to Abu Dhabi to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an exquisite house of worship with gold-gilded chandeliers and 82 domes.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #51

-Popular tourist city: Beijing

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,330

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $70

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $30

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -5.3%

China is a vast country full of ancient and contemporary wonders. Most visitors start their trips in the cosmopolitan cities of Shanghai or Beijing, but it’s worth the time to travel to one of the smaller cities to see the countryside. Make sure you visit any part of the Great Wall of China, listed as one of the seven new wonders of the world. American tourists have historically had a harder time getting a Chinese visa, but the rules were relaxed in 2024.

#41. United Kingdom

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #13

-Popular tourist city: London

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $660

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $190

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $100

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 4.6%

Although there are many interesting cities in the U.K. to base your trip on, London remains a top pick. The city may be best known for its historical sites: Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace—to name just a few. London also boasts a robust dining scene with flavors from all over the world.

Zeluloidea // Shutterstock

#40. Panama

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #47

-Popular tourist city: Panama City

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $550

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $60

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -2.2%

Panama is an ideal choice for American tourists who want to immerse themselves in a new culture without a long flight or jet lag. The country’s largest city, Panama City, includes walkable historic squares in the Casco Viejo tourist district. The city’s newer neighborhoods offer stellar rooftop views and a bustling nightlife. Travelers can unwind with a visit to Chagres National Park, home to a staggering amount of biodiversity that includes more than 500 bird species.

#39. Ireland

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #19

-Popular tourist city: Dublin

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $810

More than 1 million American travelers visited Ireland last year, with Irish tourist officials hoping to entice more in the future as more than 30 million Americans have Irish ancestry. A popular stop in Dublin is the Guinness Storehouse, where you can see how Irish beer is made. But don’t forget to visit a traditional Irish pub to get a feel for the local culture.

Aliaksandr Antanovich // Shutterstock

#38. Belgium

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #29

-Popular tourist city: Brussels

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $900

Brussels is a must-visit stop in Belgium, offering wonderful food and spectacular architecture. Start at the Grand Palace, then go to the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, a beautiful glass-covered arcade from the 1830s filled with shops, galleries, restaurants, and even a cinema. Brussels is packed with museums too. Europe’s largest dinosaur gallery is at the Institute of Natural Sciences and a comprehensive collection of artwork is at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

#37. Cyprus

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #36

-Popular tourist city: Paphos

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,000

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $110

Cyprus is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea that is a cycling haven. Mountain biking and road cycling routes are available, and there are plenty of places to rent bicycles. Beaches are also plentiful, and the average summer high temperature is 86° F. The island is home to several dive sites, some leading to shipwrecks.

Finn stock // Shutterstock

#36. Finland

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #25

-Popular tourist city: Helsinki

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $160

Finland features a dizzying array of natural wonders. Here, you’ll get a great shot at seeing the northern lights, or at witnessing the midnight sun, when the sun stays up through the night during the summer. Helsinki is usually the first stop for visitors, and while visiting the Finnish capital, make sure you partake in a local tradition by going to a sauna. Löyly is a well-known one that’s open to the public.

#35. Netherlands

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #11

-Popular tourist city: Amsterdam

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $830

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $220

No trip to the Netherlands is complete without a visit to Amsterdam, but don’t overlook the country’s extensive train system, which offers seamless service to unforgettable locations. Among them is Giethoorn, nicknamed the “Venice of the Netherlands,” thanks to its quaint canals lined by thatched-roof houses.

Those staying in Amsterdam have their pick of historic sites, canal boat rides, and walking tours. The city is trying to shed its reputation as a raucous party town by curbing the volume of rowdy visitors; among the tamer stops is a visit to Rijksmuseum, a large art museum with a Michelin-starred restaurant on site.

40mm Photographer // Shutterstock

#34. South Africa

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #37

-Popular tourist city: Cape Town

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,540

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $40

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -23.0%

Many travelers to Cape Town climb Table Mountain for the sweeping views of the South African coastline. The city is also near parts of South Africa’s robust wine country. But don’t skip out on a trip further inland to Johannesburg to check out Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum for a historical perspective. Nelson Mandela’s house in nearby Soweto is also a famed destination.

#33. Poland

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #43

-Popular tourist city: Krakow

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $910

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -3.2%

Visit the historic city centers of Kraków and Warsaw to see the former homes of royalty, cultural museums, and homes dating as far back as the 14th century. When you’re ready to break away from the city, head to one of Poland’s national parks, Tatrzanski or Białowieza, where you can catch some fresh air in wildflower-filled meadows near the foothills of the Highlands.

#32. Croatia

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #35

-Popular tourist city: Zagreb

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $940

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a major tourist draw, with many people planning boating adventures on the turquoise-hued Adriatic Sea. Croatia is also a destination for serious foodies, as the prestigious Michelin Guide recently recognized several restaurants in the country. “Game of Thrones” fans also flock to Dubrovnik to find their favorite backdrops from the TV series.

#31. Germany

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #24

-Popular tourist city: Berlin

Germany may be known for Oktoberfest and its UNESCO-listed castles, but most people travel to bustling, big cities such as Frankfurt or Berlin. For a unique destination, head to South Germany’s historic, small towns such as Gengenbach and Baden-Baden. In the Southwest’s Black Forest region, charming towns surrounded by tree-covered hills dot the countryside.

trabantos // Shutterstock

#30. Portugal

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #15

-Popular tourist city: Lisbon

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,110

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $180

Travel to Portugal jumped nearly 20% from 2022 to 2023, with more than 26 million people visiting last year. A residency program that attracted Americans to live in Portugal caused a housing crisis that spurred protests from local residents. If you plan to make a short-term visit, consider staying in local hostels, guesthouses, or hotels. The country’s inland regions are full of historical sites. Be sure to stop off in the town of Évora, which features a first-century Roman temple.

#29. Costa Rica

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #28

-Popular tourist city: San Jose

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $400

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 7.5%

Whether you’re into the laid-back beach vibes of the coast or inland adventures of hiking through jungles and near volcanoes, Costa Rica has a trip that’s nearly any traveler’s speed. Many people fly into Costa Rica’s biggest airport in San Juan but soon drift around the country to get close to the country’s natural beauty. Visitors can also bring back fresh coffee from one of the many coffee bean farms.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #2

-Popular tourist city: Barcelona

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,090

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $260

Spain set a record for foreign tourists in 2023 with more than 85 million visitors. Many travelers devote their time to the Catalonia region, including Barcelona. The Basílica de la Sagrada Família is one of Barcelona’s most popular places to visit, as is the residential building, Casa Batlló.

Kamira // Shutterstock

#27. Mexico

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #27

-Popular tourist city: Cancún

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $460

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years 7.7%

Cancún may be the most popular destination in Mexico for U.S. travelers, but there are many spectacular places to see across the country. Oaxaca is a top destination for people who travel to eat delicious food. Mexico City isn’t far behind as a diverse culinary capital, besides the markets and museums available in the biggest city in North America. Mérida, on the Yucatan peninsula, is a great place to go and see ancient Mayan sites.

#26. South Korea

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #45

-Popular tourist city: Seoul

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -14.6%

South Korean tourism has grown as more of the country’s exports—from Korean skincare products to K-pop musicians—gain popularity in the States. In Seoul, make sure you visit the hundreds of stalls at Namdaemun Market, where you’ll find handicrafts, accessories, and delicious signature dishes. Then, explore the mix of contemporary and traditional exhibits at the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art.

ZGPhotography // Shutterstock

#25. Hungary

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #48

-Popular tourist city: Budapest

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $970

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -18.7%

Budapest, the city split by the Danube River, has unique things to see and do on both sides. The city is known for its thermal baths, particularly centuriesold Turkish baths and the popular Széchenyi. These baths boast natural minerals that locals claim have healing properties. On the Buda side, ride up the Zugliget Chairlift for sweeping city views.

#24. Austria

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #18

-Popular tourist city: Vienna

Hungary’s neighbor to the west, Austria, is an easy train ride away so many visitors to the region enjoy stops in both countries. Vienna’s stunning architecture includes the 13th-century Hofburg palace, now home to Austria’s president, as well as public galleries and exhibits. Tourists flock to Austria’s Christmas markets in December, but spring visitors will enjoy Vienna’s Easter markets’ hand-decorated eggshells.

satoriphoto // Shutterstock

#23. Indonesia

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #33

-Popular tourist city: Bali

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,550

-Cost of three-course meal for two: $20

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -13.1%

Bali, famous for its beaches and surfing, has had issues with overtourism in the last several years. But Indonesia boasts many options for visitors seeking to experience the great outdoors while preserving it. Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to more than 5,000 giant lizards known as Komodo dragons. Hikers can trek along volcanoes in Java, and many Indonesian islands, including Lombok and the Gili Islands, are known for their incredible beaches.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #1

-Popular tourist city: Rome

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,030

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $230

Summer trips to Italy have always been popular with Americans, but fall is quite possibly the best time to see the Bel Paese—beautiful country—Italy’s apt nickname. First-time visitors may want to start in Rome, Milan, or Florence, which all offer stunning architecture, history, and regional dishes. Venice has traditionally topped the tourism list, but the City of Canals recently introduced a tourist tax to tamp down on the number of short-term visitors and to pay for infrastructure updates.

Aleksandr Medvedkov // Shutterstock

#21. Sri Lanka

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #49

-Popular tourist city: Colombo

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,460

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -42.2%

Start your trip to Sri Lanka with a stop in the country’s biggest city, Colombo. Visitors can learn about the country’s history at the National Museum and see several Buddha statues at the Gangaramaya Temple. From there, take the train to Ella, where majestic forests, waterfalls, and tea plantations set the backdrop as you pass along the famed Nine Arch Bridge.

saiko3p // Shutterstock

#20. Norway

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #21

-Popular tourist city: Oslo

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $930

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -20.0%

Norway’s capital city, Oslo, is known for its museums and public spaces. Start your Oslo museum tour at the Nobel Peace Center, then continue on to MUNCH for famous artwork, and the outdoor Vigeland Sculpture Park.

#19. France

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #3

-Popular tourist city: Paris

Although tourist numbers were down during the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, France typically attracts more than 3 million American tourists each year. Paris is adored for its food, style, and unrivaled cultural attractions, including the Louvre (home to the famed Mona Lisa), the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Élysées.

#18. Greece

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #4

-Popular tourist city: Athens

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,230

There are endless reasons people flock to Greece, but two top many bucket lists: historical ruins and gorgeous seasides. The Acropolis in Athens is the heart of ancient Grecian architecture. While many Greek islands are popular with tourists, Santorini and Crete are at the top of the list.

#17. Sweden

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #16

-Popular tourist city: Stockholm

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -11.3%

If you don’t like handling local currency while traveling, Sweden will be an ideal place to visit. The country is mostly cashless, with many restaurants only accepting cards and mobile payments. Music fans are sure to visit Stockholm’s ABBA museum, where you can see many of the fabulous outfits worn by Sweden’s most famous band. The city also offers popular ferry rides around its islands. Don’t miss out on traditional foods such as pickled herring, lingonberries, and princess cake.

#16. Vietnam

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #40

-Popular tourist city: Hanoi

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,070

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $40

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -8.5%

Vietnam is an unforgettable vacation destination, whether you prioritize seeing the country’s unique landscapes or its unforgettable cultural centers. For those who go to Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, the Old Quarter is a great neighborhood to start. Visitors can take a day trip to see Hạ Long Bay, a unique patch of sea with hundreds of limestone islands protruding out of the waters.

PixelPerfected // Shutterstock

#15. Morocco

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #26

-Popular tourist city: Marrakech

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $120

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -2.9%

Between adventures in the Atlas mountains, delicious food, and breathtaking architecture, Morocco has a little something for every taste. Many tourists set up a base in Marrakech and prioritize trips to the souks to shop for various new and traditional products. Travelers can also opt to stay in a traditional Moroccan riad, with a courtyard or small pool in the middle of the home.

Daniel Huebner // Shutterstock

#14. New Zealand

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #7

-Popular tourist city: Auckland

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,320

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -9.7%

New Zealand may be most well known for its unparalleled natural landscapes. Its untouched landscapes have featured prominently in movies including “The Lord of the Rings,” “Narnia,” and “The Last Samurai.” Most people start their adventure in Auckland and then take about two weeks to make their way through the stunning countryside.

#13. Canada

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #12

-Popular tourist city: Toronto

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $490

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -4.6%

Toronto, Canada’s most populous city, is a large metropolis filled with people from all over the world. Its culture reflects that diversity—particularly in Toronto’s culinary scene, which prominently features international foods. If you’d like to combine your time in the city with seeing a natural wonder, the scenic drive from Toronto to Niagara Falls is about 90 minutes.

OutdoorWorks // Shutterstock

#12. Malaysia

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #34

-Popular tourist city: Kuala Lumpur

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,220

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $30

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -11.9%

Most American travelers may know of Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers and Batu Caves, but Malaysia’s capital city is also a top destination for shoppers. Head out of the big city to check out Malaysia’s beautiful—and highly underrated—beaches. For leisurely days hanging by the beach, check out Batu Ferringhi, then visit the local night market for bustling evenings.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #44

-Popular tourist city: Delhi

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $980

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -17.7%

India is vast and diverse; what you see will be determined by where you land. The Taj Mahal is the most well-known tourist attraction and is a few hours’ drive from New Delhi. The rolling backwaters of Kerala, in South India, set the scene for a relaxing vacation aboard a traditional boathouse. Whenever you travel, street food lovers can get their fill of treats. Food stalls or small restaurants that serve rice-based biryani or a crispy crepe called dosa are a must-visit. Get that extra dish: The dollar stretches far in India, with $1 equaling about 80 rupees.

#10. Australia

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #5

-Popular tourist city: Sydney

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $990

-Cost of one night at a three-star hotel: $130

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -4.0%

More than 5 million Americans visited Australia so far in 2024—an increase of almost 50% from the year before. Travelers would need months to see all the continent-country has to offer. Still, highlights outside of Sydney and Melbourne include the wine region in New South Wales, and driving along the Great Ocean Road to see the 12 Apostles, the limestone stacks perched near the ocean.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #38

-Popular tourist city: Cusco

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $800

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -11.5%

Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Inca citadel now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is on many travelers’ bucket lists. It’s not the easiest journey to make, but it’s worth the legendary views of ancient structures set against the backdrop of the Andes mountains. Foodies will delight in the delectable options in Peru’s capital city, Lima, lovingly called the culinary capital of South America.

Dimitri Tymchenko // Shutterstock

#8. Philippines

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #31

-Popular tourist city: Manila

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -12.5%

Once a traveler chooses to visit the Philippines, another impossible decision awaits: where in this beautiful archipelagic country to focus their time. The white-sand beaches at El Nido and Boracay are among the best in the world, while the turquoise-colored mountain spring waterfalls in Cebu are simply breathtaking. The country’s capital city, Manila, is a modern metropolis with top-notch dining and shopping.

photopixel // Shutterstock

#7. Dominican Republic

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #39

-Popular tourist city: Punta Cana

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $430

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -14.7%

The Dominican Republic remains a top beach destination for American visitors, given its short direct flights. Skyscanner named Santo Domingo a trending destination, with one of the biggest increases in people searching their platform to visit the Caribbean city. Walk along the cobblestone streets of Santo Domingo, then sit on a breezy bistro patio in Plaza de España, where you can take in the city’s historic architecture. In between beach visits, make your way to the National Park, Los Tres Ojos, for lake-filled limestone caverns.

Armando Oliveira // Shutterstock

#6. Argentina

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #32

-Popular tourist city: Buenos Aires

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -95.4%

Argentina may be best known for its incredible wine and unparalleled steak. Culturally, the country has a lot to offer—there’s no better place to learn the tango than where the dance originated! Argentina’s peso has struggled against inflation, incentivizing businesses that prefer to get paid in U.S. dollars, even though it’s not the country’s official currency. Exclusively using Argentina’s currency while traveling through the country can be difficult since local ATMs have daily withdrawal limits.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #10

-Popular tourist city: Tokyo

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -31.0%

Japan has been a bucket-list trip for Americans for many decades but is notably more expensive, especially in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. American travelers are seeing some relief in 2024, as the U.S. dollar has strengthened compared to the Japanese yen. Whether getting lost in Tokyo, eating your way through the foodie capital of Osaka, or zipping around via high-speed train through the country, there are countless ways to enjoy visiting this island nation.

Dudarev Mikhail // Shutterstock

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #17

-Popular tourist city: Rio de Janeiro

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $860

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -31.4%

Brazil evokes images of Rio de Janeiro, the laid-back vibes of Ipanema beach, the Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city, and the raucous fun of Carnival. But there is so much more to Brazil than tourist hubs. Salvador, Bahia, is the preeminent place to experience Afro Brazilian cuisines, dance, and culture. In the south of the country, Florianópolis is known for its premiere beaches.

#3. Turkiye

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #20

-Popular tourist city: Istanbul

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -82.8%

Istanbul, which offers the most direct flights from the U.S., boasts essential stops for any visitor to Türkiye. Most American tourists start in the city’s Golden Horn and Sultanahmet, where unparalleled views of the Bosphorus Strait set the tone for the trip. Then, in a single day, they visit the majestic Blue Mosque, ancient Basilica Cistern, and maze-like Grand Bazaar.

History buffs will also be eager to see the cities of Ephesus, Aizanoi, and Izmir, where even more Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine artifacts and ruins await. Finish your trip by stopping at the Turkish Riviera in Antalya, also called the Turquoise Coast for its crystal-blue waters.

SOUTHERNTraveler // Shutterstock

#2. Thailand

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #8

-Popular tourist city: Bangkok

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,080

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -14.1%

Thailand has been a hub for American travelers for decades. Start in the capital, Krung Thep, known to Americans as Bangkok, where you can check out the Grand Palace and beautiful temples such as Wat Arun. Next, explore beach towns such as Phuket and Koh Samui, both favorites for late-night beach parties or relaxing next to serene waters in Thailand’s gulf. Continue heading north to the mountainous Chiang Mai, a favorite among U.S. travelers and expats for its exceptional beauty and regional cuisine.

-U.S. News tourism ranking: #9

-Popular tourist city: Cairo

-Cost of flight from Kansas City, Missouri: $1,160

-Change in local currency against the U.S. dollar over the past five years -65.6%

The pyramids of Giza may be among the world’s most popular tourist attractions, but visiting them is just the first of many breathtaking sites in Egypt. Take an overnight cruise on the Nile River from Aswan to Luxor, with stops to delve into ancient temples and museums. Before you leave, make sure you try kebabs and Ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel), plus some basbousa for dessert.

Story editing by Alizah Salario. Additional editing by Nicole Caldwell. Copy editing by Paris Close.

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