Quick Getaways

Bangkok is a vibrant, exciting city, but sometimes you really need a break from the constant rush and traffic. Taking a day trip is a fantastic way to explore Thailand’s history and nature. You can easily return to a comfortable base at a quality hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, each evening, refreshed and ready for your next adventure.

1. Ayutthaya: Ancient Capital Ruins

Step back into history by visiting Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful, sprawling temple ruins spread across a vast archaeological park. Renting a bicycle is a perfect way to explore the area at your own pace, or you could hire a local tuk-tuk for a guided tour of the key sites. Make sure you see Wat Mahathat, which is internationally famous for the Buddha head that is perfectly entwined within the roots of a banyan tree; it offers a truly unmissable and humbling photo opportunity.

2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market

Experience two of Thailand’s most distinctive markets in a single, action-packed day trip. Damnoen Saduak is the country’s most famous floating market, a colourful, busy place where vendors sell fresh produce and souvenirs from narrow canal boats. Just a short, fascinating drive away is the Maeklong Railway Market. Here, sellers quickly pull back their awnings and stalls just moments before a working train passes directly through the heart of the market area, creating an unforgettable moment you will not see anywhere else.

3. Kanchanaburi: The River Kwai Bridge

Head west to Kanchanaburi, a beautiful province rich in both natural scenery and powerful WWII history. The famous Bridge on the River Kwai, which forms part of the infamous Death Railway, is the main historical attraction in the area. Visitors can walk across the bridge’s span and visit the nearby museums to learn the sobering history of its construction. This trip provides an important, moving look into the past that honours the lives lost.

4. Erawan National Park: Seven-Tiered Waterfall

For those who love nature and swimming, Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi province is an absolute must-do. The major attraction is the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, where beautiful emerald-green ponds cascade down through the dense jungle. It’s a perfect spot for swimming and hiking, providing a refreshing change from the stifling city heat. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and allow enough time for the climb to the higher tiers, where you can find the best, most rewarding views.

5. Pattaya: A Quick Coastal Escape

If you crave a quick beach day, Pattaya is conveniently located only about a two-hour drive from the capital. While the city itself is well-known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment, you can find cleaner water and a much more relaxing beach experience by hopping on a ferry to the nearby island of Koh Larn (Coral Island). Many people who stay in the central business district find that its quick highway access makes it a breeze to get out of the city. You’ll find that making a very early start from a great central location like Maitria Hotel Rama 9 Bangkok makes this coastal run much smoother.

6. Khao Yai National Park: Wilderness and Wine

Explore Thailand’s oldest and one of its largest national parks, Khao Yai. It is a fantastic destination for wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see elephants, gibbons, and various beautiful bird species. Beyond the intense jungle trails, the area is also surprisingly known for its scenic vineyards, which offer charming wine tastings and tours. It is a beautiful refuge offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.