Looking for a break from the busy city life? We’ve got you covered with a list of amazing one-day trips near Bangkok for your next visit to Thailand.
Explore these places: The Chao Phraya River, Ancient City, Bang Krachao, Koh Kret and Koh Larn and experience the uniqueness each has to offer!
The Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River or The River of Kings is regarded as one of the most significant rivers for transportation. As there are many places and landmarks located along the River, both locals and tourists take the ferries to get around daily.
One popular activity that you should not miss in Thailand is taking a cruise at the Chao Phraya River. Apart from sightseeing and exploring an iconic view of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok, you can also dine on the cruise while enjoying the cool breeze.
(Cr. haophrayacruise.com)
There are various riverboat cruise programs and services for you to choose from, including a one-day Bangkok tour and a luxurious private cruise. We would recommend the private yacht for couples on honeymoon, families, and groups of friends who want to spend meaningful time together.
(Cr. Klook.com)
Cruise at the Chao Phraya River would provide you a remarkable experience! Don’t forget to take plenty of instagrammable shots, especially at night when attractions are lighted up.
(Cr. slumberpartyhostels.com)
Ancient City
Also known as Muang Boran, Ancient City is the world’s largest private outdoor museum. Covering 800 Rai or 1.28 square kilometers, it is a replica of Thailand’s map divided into 4 regions, consisting of North, Northeast, Central, and South.
(Cr. muangboranmuseum.com)
Each region covers all the major attractions, making your one-day visit to the Ancient City comparable to a Thailand-round journey.
The oasis in the middle represents the significance of water bodies to Thai culture. It also portrays the lifestyle of Thais in the past.
One zone that should not be missed is The Old Market Town, where you will find popular old-time tidbits, toys, and houses.
(Cr. Muangborantheancientcity)
Beautiful architecture and fine arts here allow you to learn more about and appreciate the history, cultures, and customs of Thai people from the past until the modern time.
(Cr. traveloka.com)
Given the huge space and more than 120 replicas of landmarks, we advise you to plan your route before, so you can visit as many attractions as possible. Apart from driving, you can cycle, use their tram service or rent a golf cart to get around.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Starting Price: Free for limited zones, 700 THB (adults) & 350 THB (6-15 years old) for all zones
Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao, the Green Lung of Bangkok, is home to preserved parks, bicycle trails, a floating market, and temples. Located towards the south of Bangkok, it is hugged by a curve of the Chao Phraya River, making it resemble a pig stomach.
The most popular activity here is cycling. While exploring new places, immerse yourself in the greenery and breath in the fresh air.
(Cr. Bangkachao)
If you are nature lovers or into bird watching, one attraction you must not miss is Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park. As half of the area remains untouched, you will always be surrounded by nature.
Here, the highlight is the 7-meter tall bird watching tower, where you can snap an instagrammable bird’s eye view shots. We suggest you visit the park in the morning to avoid the heat.
(Cr. Bangkachao)
Another recommended destination is BaanToop. At this place, you can make your very own tie-dye shirts and bucket hats and bring them back as souvenirs.
Cr. Teenee.baantoop
Getting hungry? Visit Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, a one-stop floating market where you can find various local food, desserts, and snacks. Some must-try foods include Fish Cake Stick (Pla Jub Luk), Fresh Thai Coconut Crepes (Thong Muan Sod), and Miang Kham.
Pla Jub Luk (Cr. ryoiireview.com)
To get here, take a taxi or use a boat service from Khlong Toey Nok pier.
Opening Hours:
Nakhon Khuean Khan Park: Daily, 6 AM – 7 PM
BaanToop: Sat – Sun, 9 AM – 3 PM
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market: Sat – Sun & Public Holiday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Location: Bang Kachao, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan
Koh Kret
Another recommended one-day trip near Bangkok is Koh Kret, located in Nonthaburi, which is only about 30 kilometers from central Bangkok.
This small man-made island is famous for its pottery. Visit Kreung Pan Din Pao Pa Tum to try creating your own clay pot at 50 THB. There are also many beautiful handmade potteries sold at a very reasonable price.
(Cr. pantip.com)
One highlight dish at Koh Kret is the fried flowers. There is an array of flowers for you to choose from, including Butterfly pea, Ixora, Okra, and Orchid. You should also visit OTOP village, a hub of ancient Thai food and snacks which you could hardly find elsewhere.
Fried Flowers (Cr. kidjapak.com)
Another island’s specialty is Khao Chae, consisting of rice in jasmine-scented iced water and side dishes.
Khao Chae at Khao Chae Lung Dang (Cr. mycity.tataya.net)
While you are there, don’t forget to visit its landmark, Poramai Yikawat temple, also known as Wat Pak Ao. Its distinctive feature is the leaning pagoda, caused by water eroding the bank.
Poramai Yikawat temple (Cr. oknation.nationtv.tv)
We suggest you visit Koh Kret on weekends and public holidays as most shops are closed on the weekdays.
The most convenient way to get here is by driving or taking a taxi. However, if you are on a tight budget or simply want to enjoy the scenic river view, you can take the boat service from Wat Sanam Nuea, which costs only 2 THB.
Location: Koh Kret, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi
Koh Larn
Koh Larn, a small island off the coast of famous Pattaya city, is known for its beautiful beaches and extreme water sports. So, if you love adventurous activities, the trip to Koh Larn is for you!
Hype up your day with parasailing. As you glide through the air, enjoy the breathtaking view of the blue sky and surroundings.
Parasailing (Cr. traveloka.com)
Next, we have underwater sea walking. For this activity, you will literally walk under the sea where you can watch fishes and coral reefs up-close. There will be instructors guiding you through each step, so don’t worry! You can also snorkel around Koh Larn to explore the underwater world and its beauty.
Snorkelling (Cr. klook.com)
Finally, a trip to an island will never be complete without riding a banana boat or a jetski. These activities are at Tien Beach. Given its clear water, this place is also a great spot for photos.
Riding A Banana Boat (Cr. traveloka.com)
Tien Beach (Cr. fyouttravel.com)
Location: Koh Larn, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri
Truly, there are many wonderful attractions in Thailand for you to explore. How about embarking on a one-day trip near Bangkok? They will surely give you memorable experiences!