Places to Visit Near Bangkok: How to Choose?

From tranquil beach retreats to historical gems, the areas surrounding Bangkok offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Unsure about how to choose a perfect destination? Read on to get your answer.

1. Floating Markets: Experience Local Life and Culture

As a special experience in Southeast Asia, floating markets are a good way to immerse yourself in the local life and culture. Floating markets near Bangkok are among the best of them and are a must-visit for most travelers.

When considering the most popular floating markets near Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa should be on your list as each possesses unique features. Deciding between the two depends on your preferences.

Damnoen Saduak stands out as the largest floating market, known for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere, operating daily. If you seek an energetic and commercial market experience, this one is perfect for you.

On the other hand, Amphawa, serving as the only night floating market, is celebrated for its authentic and laid-back ambiance. It's an excellent choice if you seek a more relaxed experience, bearing in mind that it is only open from Fridays to Sundays. Read more about Damnoen Saduak vs Amphawa.

2. Ayutthaya: Grand Kingdom History and Magnificent Temples

Want to visit some historical temples that are not the same as those in Bangkok and learn more about the glorious past of the ancient Kingdom of Siam? Then head to Ayutthaya, a city that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Just a short distance from Bangkok (about 80 km / 50 miles), Ayutthaya is a popular day tour destination for history buffs. You could witness the iconic Buddha's head entwined in tree roots in Wat Mahathat or learn about the history of the Thai royal family in Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Bang Pa-In Palace (a royal palace featuring a blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles).

As most of the attractions are located within Ayutthaya Historical Park, you could travel around by bike or car. Due to the mix of traffic types, biking may not be safe for kids, so it's best to explore the temples using a private car.

Another special activity is taking a scenic boat tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya to experience a unique perspective of Thailand's landscapes along the Chao Phraya River, where you could see picturesque riverside villages and farms. Read more about how to visit Ayutthaya from Bangkok.

3. Kanchanaburi: a Blend of History and Nature Exploration

Are you tired of visiting busy temples in Bangkok and looking for a relaxed vacation? Consider spending a day or two in Kanchanaburi, where you could immerse yourself in tranquil nature while exploring Thailand's World War II history.

Located approximately 120 km / 75 miles (a 2-hour drive) from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a haven for nature enthusiasts. There, you could explore the stunning Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park.

If you are a fan of elephants, Kanchanaburi offers a wonderful opportunity to interact with these majestic animals at its ethical elephant sanctuaries, such as ElephantsWorld and Elephant Haven.

Beyond its natural wonders, Kanchanaburi also serves as a significant site to delve into Thailand's World War II history through the infamous Death Railway. You could witness the historic wooden viaduct constructed by prisoners of war by taking a train ride on the Death Railway and experience their difficult work environments. Read more about how to visit Kanchanaburi.

4. Khao Yai National Park: Nature and Wildlife Exploration

Are you seeking a nature park near Bangkok that lets you stay close to nature and enjoy hiking adventures? Khao Yai National Park might be the perfect place for you.

Nestled in the northeast of Bangkok (about 3 hours' drive), Khao Yai National Park offers great opportunities for hiking along lush tropical forest trails, spotting diverse wildlife, and exploring picturesque waterfalls.

For hiking, there are easy trails, which take about 1–2 hours and have well-maintained roads. The hard trail takes about 4–6 hours, with rugged dirt roads and more wildlife spotting opportunities, such as monkeys, hornbills, deer, and other species of birds.

To have an enriching experience, it is recommended to spend a night in the park so that you could take part in a captivating night safari for bat watching and other wildlife spotting. Read more about how to visit Khao Yai National Park.

5. Hua Hin: Enjoy a Beach Vacation Near Bangkok

If you have limited time in Bangkok and are eager to find a beach destination without traveling to the southern islands, Hua Hin could be a good choice.

As a favorite beach destination for the Thai royal family, Hua Hin is easily accessible from Bangkok via a 2½-hour drive. The 4-kilometer-long (2-mile-long) beach is perfect for children to play on, with shallow sea water that offers a safe environment.

For an overnight stay, Hua Hin offers a range of high-end beach hotels, such as The Standard, Hua Hin and Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, boasting stunning ocean views.

There are more beach destinations near Bangkok — read more about the top 7 beaches near Bangkok.