NEARBY DESTINATIONS
City Escapes
Beach
In need of some vitamin-sea? Here are my recommended beach destinations near the city.
Hua Hin
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Boasts long stretches of white sandy beaches, making it a great place for a quick escape with friends or family and enjoy various water activities. Less crowded compared to other destinations and becoming a popular destination to retire. A great place to play golf as well. Best accessed via private transport or car rental but public transport also available to get there.
Pranburi
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Located 30 kilometers away from Hua Hin, Pranburi is known for secluded beaches and lots of natural landscapes such as mangrove forests, scenic hills, and national parks. It is also well known for its fresh seafood and local cuisine. Best accessed via private transport or car rental and recommended as a day trip destination during your stay in Hua Hin. A hidden gem.
Koh Samet
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Probably my favorite destination on this list due to its close proximity to Bangkok and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is also a designated national park, making it even more special. Very popular among expats. The best way to get here is by renting a private car/minivan and purchasing ferry tickets at the pier. Once on the island, it is best to go around on motorbikes.
Koh Chang, Koh Mak & Koh Kood
4-6 hours from Bangkok
3 beautiful islands near the border with Cambodia. My next preferred set of beach destination on the list due its long distance from Bangkok but other than that, these islands have the cleanest and clearest waters out of all. Best places to enjoy snorkeling, diving, hiking and exploring waterfalls. Ideal to rent a car and drive to Trat and then take the ferry in.
Pattaya
1-2 hours from Bangkok
Pattaya does not have the best beaches but it is the closest destination from Bangkok, making it a good destination for a quick getaway or to enjoy some watersports. Easy to access with both private and public transportation. It can be a fantastic place to rent a boat for the day with friends to venture out to sea and also visit Koh Larn.
Koh Larn
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Even though it is just off the coast of Pattaya, Koh Larn surpringsly has a few nice beaches, with Ta Yai and Nual beach being my favorites. Also has some decent snorkeling spots and plenty of water sport options. Mostly popular among locals and recommended to visit during your time in Pattaya or if you rent a boat.
National Parks
Here is my list of national parks near the city that are just perfect to immerse yourself in nature.
Khao Yai National Park
2-3 hours from Bangkok
A must visit. The park features lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints. Visitors can also spot various wildlife species, including elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and numerous other birds and reptiles. Hiking is also a popular activity, with mutlitple trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. Other activities include birdwatching, cycling, and visiting vineyards and wineries in the surrounding area.
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Highly recommended to visit when you are in Pranburi. The park features towering cliffs, hidden caves, and secluded beaches, offering visitors a tranquil and unspoiled coastal experience. It also has several hiking and nature trails that wind through wetlands, mangrove forests, and freshwater marshes. The trails provide opportunities for birdwatching & wildlife spotting. Phraya Nakhon Cave is the most popular attraction in the park.
Erawan National Park
3-4 hours from Bangkok
A must visit when in Kanchanaburi. Highlight of the park is the waterfall, which is a seven-tiered waterfall known for its emerald-colored pools. Perfect for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the surrounding lush forests. The upper tiers are more secluded and can be reached by following hiking trails. Also home to a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, birds, and reptiles. Perfect for nature enthusiasts. Camping also available.
History
Want to expand your knowledge on Thai history beyond Bangkok? Here are some historical locations outside the city that I recommend you visit.
Ayutthaya
1-2 hours from Bangkok
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was founded in 1350 and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya (Siam), for over four centuries. Invaded and largely destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767 leading to its fall. Showcases the remnants of its glorious past, with ruins and archaeological sites, ancient temples, palaces, and statues. River boat tours available and worth visiting the floating market as well.
Kanchanaburi
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Known for the World War II-era Thailand-Burma Railway (also known as Death Railway). It was built by Allied prisoners of war and Asian laborers under Japanese occupation, and the bridge over the River Kwai is the most famous remnant of the Death Railway. Other popular sites include the Krasae Cave and Hellfire Pass. Also a fantastic location for a relaxing weekend by the River Kwai. Recommened to visit Erawan National Park during your time there.
Ratchaburi
1-2 hours from Bangkok
Served as an important center of the Dvaravati and Khmer civilizations, and later became part of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and the Rattanakosin Kingdom. Nowadays, known for its traditional pottery and handicrafts, as well as its scenic landscapes. Home to numerous pottery villages where visitors can witness the creation process and purchase unique ceramic pieces. Heaven Valley, Khao Bin Cave and Khao Ngu Stone Park are the most famous attractions.
Caves
Thailand is usually known for its beaches but did you know that it is also full of caves? Here are my favorite ones, just a short drive away from Bangkok.
Phraya Nakhon Cave
2-3 hours from Bangkok
Part of the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, where the hightlight is the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion. The pavilion stands in the central chamber of the cave, bathed in natural light that filters through a hole in the ceiling. To reach Phraya Nakhon Cave, you will need to do some moderate hiking through the national park. Highly recommended.
Kaeo Cave
2-3 hours from Bangkok
A little more for those that are adventurous. The cave has impressive formations, but the cave is completely pitch black. Headlights are required and can be rented at the entrance. Less crowded compared to other destinations, and can be claustrophobic for some. You are also able to observe various species of bats.
Khao Bin Cave
1-2 hours from Bangkok
A vast complex consisting of several interconnected caverns and features magnificent formations that have been shaped over centuries, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Also holds religious significance as a Buddhist sanctuary and houses numerous shrines and statues. Popular pilgrimage site for locals seeking spiritual blessings.