19 Best Weekend Trips from Bangkok

Weekend trips from Bangkok are a must-do whilst living and working in the city, so we share our favorite places for a Bangkok weekend getaway.

Best Weekend Trips from Bangkok

Khao Yai National Park

One of the best weekends trips from Bangkok is Khao Yai National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers 2333 acres of monsoon forests including caves, valleys, waterfalls and wildlife. 

There are plenty of lodges, hotels and even some themed hotels to choose from when visiting Khao Yai National Park. Te Mata Glamping is a pricy but luxurious glamping styled option (in a completely 5-star, elegant way with no actual tents involved). For a more affordable glamping option, check out the Moroccan style of The Air Khaoyai Hotel.

There are hotels that are themed on countries around the world like the Toscana Valley Castello Della Vela, the Zen Villa Khao Yai and Le Monte. We personally love Toscana Piazza; compete with a leaning tower of Pisa. 

Other than staying in the quirky hotels and seeing the beautiful nature in the park, you could also visit Farm ChokChai, wander through Primo Piazza and Thames Valley then explore the Khao Yai Art Museum. Visit the many coffee shops or move between the different vineyards; PB Valley Khaoyai Winery is one of the best in the park. 

For something a little unique, you could hear here during the country festivals; complete with music and cowboys. 

The national park is around 3 hours from Bangkok via car and there is no train option available, so you will need to drive or take a tour. There are a few ways to travel from Bangkok to Khao Yai National Park so compare the best option for you.

Hua Hin

Out of all the places we love escaping to, Hua Hin is top of the list. This is a quieter version of Pattaya but offers some calm, quiet, beautiful beaches. You can find affordable hotels here but our favorite thing to do is rent an airbnb with a private pool and just relax.

There are enough bars and restaurants to enjoy if you want to get out in the evenings but also, many rentals include BBQ’s and full kitchens. 

There are also plenty of things to do in Hua Hin, such as the Hua Hin Night Market, the Hua Lamphong Station and the Monkey Mountain. Enjoy Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab Beach but also explore War quay Mongkoi and Cicada Market. 

Hua Hin is around a 2hr 30 min drive away from Bangkok. We recommend hiring a taxi or driver for an easy journey, or taking one of the buses that leave from Ekkamai Bus terminal (however these do take longer). You can also catch a train that takes just under 4 hours from Bangkok and cost around $3. 

Ko Samet

Ko Samet offers a great beach as well as partying, nightlife and live music each night. This is the place backpackers go when they want cheap accommodation, beautiful beaches to chill out on and then great bars and nightlife options in the evening. 

We recommend heading here after spending some time in Rayong and stay in a beautiful beach hotel; we love the charm of Larissa Samed Resort and the modern style of Vimarn Samed Resort. 

Ko Samet is not too far from Pattaya, you just need to catch a ferry over to the island from Nadan Pier. We recommend traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya either by taxi or the minivan options available, and then catching a ferry from the pier. 

Ayutthaya

Bangkok has plenty of wonderful temples like the popular Wat Pho, but visiting the ancient capital to see temple ruins adds a different experience to your visit.

Only an hour away from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is the former capital of Thailand. You can now visit to see the ruins of the ancient temples and the famous Buddha Head surrounded by tree roots. There are many reasons to visit Ayutthaya and this city offers one of the more unique weekend breaks from Bangkok. 

Although you can enjoy a day trip here, we recommend a full weekend, so you can experience the ruins in the early morning and late at night. For a truly luxurious experience, you should spend a night at Sala Ayutthaya. 

Ayutthaya is an hour away from Bangkok, so you can choose to take just a day trip here with various companies or catch the train from Don Mueang to stay the night. There are also tourist vans which depart daily from Mochit New Van Terminal or Khao San Mama Travel. 

Rose Garden Thai Village

The Rose Garden Thai Village is actually just 30 minutes from the city center of Bangkok. This is a great weekend trip from Bangkok for families, especially those with younger children. 

This is a cultural centre located in Sampras Riverside. You can take a day trip here or spend the night to extend your stay. 

We recommend heading here around mid-day to explore the Thai Cultural Village, where you can see demonstrations of traditional Thai arts, crafts, performing arts and cooking. There are interactive stations where you can learn waving or flower arranging, and you can even paint an umbrella. 

Bamboo dancing and Muay Thai is also available here too.

As 3pm, there is a village celebration which includes mock Muay Thai fighting and performing arts. 

Book a full day package to experience it all and stay the night to fully immerse yourself in the history of Thailand. 

Catching a taxi here is easy and you can also catch the 2-15 EV bus and jump off at Satrinonthaburi School.

Koh Chang

This quiet island is located in the district of Chonburi, in the gulf of Thailand. Here, you can visit the Phra Chudhadhuj Palace, which is the former summer palace of King Rama IV. Hiking and paddleboarding are popular options in Koh Si Chang but also find time to visit the Chao Pot Khao Yai Shrine. 

Relax on the Wang Beach and Koh Si Chang Beach, visit the local markets and then hike up Khao Sam Muk for breathtaking views of the island. 

Bangkok to Koh Chang is just an hour away from the capital, just a short ferry ride away 

Si Racha

This coastal town in Chonburi Province is an overlooked place to visit but a great weekend trip from Bangkok. Because it is not super touristy, you can find great accommodation for affordable prices, but also enjoy plenty of local food too. 

Visit the Sriracha Tiger Zoo, explore the Khao Kheow Open Zoo and then visit Ko Los; a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge.

Shop at the Japanese-themed shopping mall J-Park Sriracha Nihon Mura but also check out the night market located here for fresh produce and clothing. 

You can head to the many, many seafood restaurants located here or enjoy a big of fishing too. 

Si Racha is just an hour and 20 minutes away from Bangkok, and you can catch a bus, minivan or taxi to the quiet town. 

Kanchanaburi

Known for being the location of the Death Railway and being featured in the Bridge on the River Kwai movie, Kanchanaburi is another great weekend break from Bangkok or a busy day trip from the city. 

Visit the infamous death railway which saw thousands of allied prisoners working under horrendous conditions to create a railway to Laos during the Second World War. There are museums dedicated to these events located here and it is still passible to arrive in the city via train.

See the historical sights here but also head to the Erawan National Park to experience the beauty in the area too. You could also visit the ethical elephant nature park, explore the unique Wat Ban Tham temple as well as the Wat Tham Suea Tiger Cave Temple. 

There are plenty of hotels to choose from here, from the luxury Cross River Kwai to the affordable but sophisticated Natee The Riverfront Hotel. 

Kanchanaburi is just under a 3 hour bus ride from Bangkok, with bus options available from Bangkok whilst taxis or drivers can drive you straight to your hotel in 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are also two trains a day, which take 2 hours and 30 minutes from Bangkok Thonburi Train Station. 

I Love Phants Lodge

This is a specific hotel but makes for a unique weekend getaway from Bangkok. This is actually an Elephant Rescue Centre and I am so proud to say that the school I work for in Bangkok run various charity events and fundraisers to support this centre. 

Just 2 Horus from Bangkok, the I Love Plants lodge gives you the opportunity to stay in a gorgeous local hotel where you can wake up to elephants roaming the lands nearby. You can also visit the Wildlife Friends Foundation nearby, to learn about and see local wildlife. 

The lodge is 2 hours and 35 minutes from Bangkok, so self-driving or a taxi is the main way people visit the lodge. You can arrange a pick up and drop off with the lodge itself as well, for reasonable prices. 

Pattaya

Located along the coast, the city of Pattaya is a very popular destination for visitors and expats, looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. 

Head to Pattaya Beach or Jomtien Beach but also take a short boat trip out to Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island. Visit the Sanctuary of Truth, a wooden template intricatly carved and then climb the stairs to see the hilltop temple of Wat Phra Yai. 

Spend time exploring the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden to see landscaped gardens and cultural shows before heading up to the Khao Pattaya View Point for amazing panoramic views. There are plenty of things to do in Pattaya to keep you busy!

Bangkok to Pattaya is an easy 2hour journey, with buses, trains and taxi options available. 

Nakhon Nayok

Enjoy an authentic experience of Thailand in Nakhon Nayok; one of the most overlooked weekend breaks from Bangkok. Enjoy local fruits from the morning market, take a Thai cooking class and then visit the Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam.

Khao Yai National Park isn’t far from this little town, but we also recommend you visit the Sarika Waterfall; a multi-tiered waterfall with hiking trails in the area. Nang Rong Waterfall is another beautiful fall to finish complete with natural pools. 

For historic sights, visiting Wat Phrammani, known for its revered Buddha image and beautiful architecture, as well as the serene temple and gardens of Wat Chulabhorm Wanaram. 

Adventurists won’t be bored here either. You can enjoy white water rafting, ATV and Off-Road driving as well as zip-lining and rope courses. 

There are some great hotels to choose from, with the serene Eden House Resort being one of our favorite, as well as the Villa Panalai and its modern style. At Rice Resort is another great place t stay in too, with western amenities at reasonable prices. 

Nakhon Nayok is just under 2 hours away from Bangkok but the best way to get there is with a taxi or hired driver. Check out 12go to book your trip in advance. 

Chachoengsao

Located in Eastern Thailand, this town offers historical sights and natural beauty. There are plenty of temples in Chachoengsao, including the Wat Sothowararam Worawihan temple which includes a large white marble Buddha Statue. You can also se the all-gold architecture of Wat Paknam Jolo and the Bat Temple, officially named Wat Pho Bang Khla.

See the 100-year-old Ancient market at Ban Mai, take a boat ride along the river and then visiting the authentic Bang Khla Floating Market. 

Chachoengsao is just over 2 hours away from Bangkok but you can get a train in just 1 and a half hours; this takes you from Lat Krabana to Chachoengsao Station. 

Krabi

Just an hour flight from Bangkok, Krabi is is a perfect weekend destination from Bangkok. This where you can find gorgeous beaches, plenty of hotels and some tasty, spicy food. 

Railway and Ao Nang are located nearby, as well as Koh Phi Phi and the famous Maya Bay. Explore Thung Team Forest National Park, home to the Emerald Pool, and then enjoy hikes in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park. 

Visit Wat Tham Sea, enjoy street food at the Krabi Night Market and then head to the Krabi Shell Cemetery to see ancient fossilized shells, dating back millions of years. 

For a stunning hotel, we can’t recommend the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort enough!

Bangkok to Krabi is just an hour flight away with return journeys costing as little as $60 with Air Asia. 

Pranburi

For a small village vibe, great seafood and beautiful beaches and forests, head to Pranburi. This is even quieter than Hua Hin but you can explore the well-preserved mangrove forest and its wild animals in Pranburi Forest Park before checking out the Tub Tim Goddess shrine. 

Spend time on the Pak Nam Pran beach or the San Noi beach but also visit the walking street in the evenings for some food and shopping. 

For a luxury hotel room on the beach, head to Aleenta Resort and Spa whilst a gorgeous, more affordable option can be found at Golden Pine Beach Resort. If you are looking for a quiet, relaxing experience, then head to Pam Pran Resort. 

Pranburi is around a 3 hour drive from Bangkok, but takes 4 hours 20 minutes in the train from Krung Thep and around 4 hours and 30 minutes when using the vans from Mochit Van Terminal. Personally, we prefer to drive or hire a driver.

Lopburi

Located in central Thailand, the province of Lopburi makes for one of the most authentic weekend breaks from Bangkok. 

The province is known for being home to the ‘Monkey Temple’ an ancient Khmer temple, where a huge monkey population has made their home. You can also see the historical temple of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and the ruins of the former residents of French Diplomats, Ban Vichayen.

Built in the 17th century, the King Sarai’s Palace showcases beautiful architecture but also homes the Lopburi National museum. 

Once you are finished with the historical sights, head out to the sunflower fields, in bloom from November to January. The scenic reservoir of Ang Sub Lek is surrounded by mountains and a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic whilst Pa San Cholasit Sam offers picturesque views and boat rides. 

Because it is an overlooked destination, you can find private hotel rooms fro under $$20 a night, we enjoyed our stay at the Baan Ruay Suk Resort but make sure to have a car to get into the city. If you don’t have a car, then try the Hop Inn Lopburi, a modern hotel near the city center. 

Lopburi is a 2 hours and 25 minute drive away from Bangkok. Trains are available from Krung The Aphiwat Central Terminal and Don Mueang Airport Station. 

Muak Lek, Saraburi

As you travel towards Nakhon Ratchasima, you travel through Saraburi, where you can find the small town of Muak Lek. This is said to be the door to Isaan and the last town before you arrive in Korat. 

The town is known for its stunning nearby waterfalls like Nam Tok Muak Lek, and Nam Tok Jed Sao Noi. 

You can also visit the secluded caves here like the Tam Dao Khao Kaew Cave as well as plenty of farms. 

Issara Estates is a boutique hotel and winery, offering a luxurious stay with wine and dine options. We personally enjoyed staying at the Muaklek Paradise Resort, as it had some great food, plenty of pool space and luxury hotel rooms. 

Bangkok to Muak Lek is around a 2 hour drive, so renting a car or hiring ad river is a good option. The town doesn’t have great transportation so having a car helps! There are also buses from Mochit and trains from Krung Thep and Don Mueang.

Ratchaburi

Located in Western Thailand, this province can be easily visited as a Bangkok Day trip but also makes for one of the more popular weekend breaks from Bangkok. 

This is where you can find the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market; one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand. You can also visit the historical temple of Wat Mahathat Worawihan or watch the Nang Yai shadow puppet show. Located in the former town hall is the Ratchaburi National Museum, which showcases artifacts from the provinces history.

Rachaburi is also known for its beauty; visit the scene park of Khao Ngu Stone Park where you can see limestone mountains and caves whilst the Khao Bin Cave offers impressive stalactites and stalagmites. 

Bo Khloung Hot Stream is a natural hot springs where you can relax and soak in the waters but also enjoy a boat tour explore the waterways of Ratchaburi. 

Visit the night market, head to the family-friendly farm; The Scenery Vintage Farm or explore the Suan Phueng District for scenic views and fun cafes, resorts and attractions.

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in and around Ratchaburi, with both Inlaya Ratchaburi and Le Lert Hotel being great options in the area. Napa Hotel is also a good option for those wanting to stay in the centre of the province, not far from the museums and attractions. 

You can catch a train from Bangkok, reaching to Ratchaburi in under 2 hours and from just $2. Minibuses are also available from Southern Terminal Bangkok, taking just 1 hour and 30 minuets. 

Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is a province just north of Bangkok, and one of the nearest weekend trips from Bangkok. With beautiful temples like Wat Chaloem Kiat Worawihan and Wat Sangkathan, you have something to explore and fill your days but make sure to also visit the small island of Koh Kret.

You can also visit the bustling Nanthaburi Market for fresh produce, street food and household items. Nanthaburi Pier offers scenic views and riverside attractions along the Chao Phraya River whilst the Chaloem Kanchanaphisek Park is a beautiful park offering oinciunc spots and relaxing walks. 

Impact arena is technically in Nonthaburi, so this is a great area to stay in if have a concert to get to, or catching the ONE Championship events in IMPACT. 

Because of how close Nonthanburi is to Bangkok, we recommend getting a Grab car to your hotel and using GRAB to get around. Alternatively, you could catch the Purple Metro line to Ministry of Public Health and take a grab or motorbike taxi from here. 

Phuket

OK, Bangkok to Phuket requires a flight if you are looking to just visit for the weekend but it can be a great Bangkok weekend getaway. This is especially ideal during those long weekends when we have the Friday or Monday off because a national holiday falls on the weekend.

There is plenty of things to do in Phuket; from beautiful beaches, great seafood restaurants and a variety of shrines and temples. Explore the Phuket Old Town, where you can find authentic Thai food as well as fun cafes and bars but also take a Thai cooking class whilst you are here.

There are plenty of high-end resorts to choose from or more affordable, mid-range hotels in Phuket like the Safari Beach Hotel.