Whenever there’s a long weekend, Bangkok is often the choice destination for most Singaporeans. It’s a short trip away, and with various floating markets and bazaars in nearby districts like Chatuchak and Sam Phran, shopping is virtually guilt-less.
But these areas have become way too common among tourists. For your next BKK jaunt, switch up your itinerary and venture out to the following 10 less low-key locations. They’re no more than 3 hours away from Central Bangkok, perfect for quick day trips throughout your visit.
The current exchange rate is ฿10 = S$0.38 as of 9th September 2024.
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To get the most out of the trip, you can rent a car to shorten the travel time. Rates for a day trip start from S$25.46/day on Klook. You can also use ride hailing services like Grab, Line Man, Bolt, or Gojek. Just ensure that you book the ride an hour or two in advance as not all drivers will readily go the extra mile for you. Local cabs are also an option, but be prepared to face the risk of suspiciously high fares.
Otherwise, you can start your journey via bus or train from terminals in Bangkok, like Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Hua Lamphong Station, or Thonburi Station. If time is on your side, you can travel to these places via scenic Bangkok train trips.
Although not as mainstream as Bangkok, these places are still tourist attractions, so they do accept credit or debit card payments. But if it’s a street food vendor or small ware, it’s likely they only accept cash. Otherwise, you can always go to an ATM to withdraw some cash quickly.
Since 2021, Singaporeans can use PayNow to transfer money to PromptPay users, Thailand’s version of PayNow. This covers users from DBS, OCBC, and UOB banks. DBS users also have the option of using PayLah! at over 8 million shops. Find out more about which banks and brands are involved on DBS website.
For the religious sites listed here, there’s a strict dress code to follow. Like any other place of worship, avoid going in shorts, t-shirts, or revealing clothes. Bring along a cloth or garb to cover up your shoulders and knees.
| Location | Recommended mode of transport | Known for |
| Hua Hin | Train | Caves, theme parks, markets, and royal train stations |
| Kanchanaburi | Train | Cool water attractions and mountains |
| Koh Samet | Bus | Serene and peaceful beaches |
| Khao Yai | Bus | Home to sweeping views and the largest flower garden in Thailand |
| Koh Chang | Car | 7 waterfalls, several islands and an extreme “OBS” obstacle course |
| Samut Prakarn | Car or BTS Skytrain | Large scale park containing replicas of iconic Thai monuments and landmarks |
| Nakhon Pathom | Car | Home to the world’s largest golden stupa |
| Ratchaburi | Car | Most famous floating market in Thailand |
| Pattaya | Car | 20-storey multi-religious castle and life-sized dinosaur park |
| Ayutthaya | Car | UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins |
A destination that Bangkok citizens themselves escape to over the weekend, Hua Hin is a great BKK alternative. If you’re after a challenge, Pala-U Waterfall will be a great spot to visit. It has about 15 levels, but beginners can just keep to the first 3 where you can take a dip in mini pools. Venture in further and you’ll reach Phraya Nakhon Cave. It houses a hidden golden monument that looks most beautiful under sunlight.
Image credit: @jaijaija via Instagram
Thailand’s known for its many national parks, but Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park definitely takes the cake. Its majestic name “Mountain of Three Hundred Peaks” isn’t just for show; there, you’ll find a multitude of peaks with amazing views.
Image credit: @khanompungg via Instagram
For a breezy trek with lush views of flora, hit up the Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk walking trail. Think of it as the bigger and prettier version of our very own Lorong Halus Wetland.
Image credit: @cicadahuahin via Instagram
CICADA Market is short for “Community of Identity Culture Arts & Dynamic Activities”, so you can expect to get handcrafted baubles, art exhibitions, and frequent performances at the amphitheatre.
Image credit: @dontzii via Instagram
Authentic street fare is what you’ll get at Hua Hin Walking Street. The walkways may be narrow, but since there aren’t too many tourists, you’ll be able to walk around unhindered.
Image credit: @iamnicksoncheng via Instagram
Plearnwan Eco Vintage Village is a quirky marketplace that’s more polished than the average street market. It has a funfair vibe, with plenty of affordable food vendors and mini attractions.
Experience more than just Thai culture when you visit the nearby Cha-Am district. There are plenty of theme parks, all within walking distance of one another. If your budget doesn’t allow you to visit Italy itself, The Venezia is the next best thing. You’ll feel like you’re at the actual Grand Canal when you take a gondola there.
Image credit: @stephglobetrotteuse via Instagram
Hua Hin Railway Station is one of Thailand’s most beautiful stations. With its striking yellow and red facade, and castle-like architecture, this is the stop you’ll want to make, even if you’re not catching a train.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Hua Hin: Take a train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Hua Hin Railway Station.
Estimated travel time: 3 hours
Image credit: @sho.kou via Instagram
Kanchanaburi is another alternative to Bangkok that’s known for its history and overall chill lifestyle.The name Death Railway refers to the thousands of lives lost when creating this bridge during WW2. The area itself is unsuspectingly picturesque – between the museums, war cemetery, and short train rides to bring you around the landscape, there’s plenty to take in.
Image credit: @thefloathouseriverkwai via Instagram
The river that flows underneath the railway also runs along FloatHouse River Kwai Resort, where you can have a luxurious stay that’s got breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
Image credit: @9297 via Instagram
For a truly quiet experience, head over to the Wooden Mon Bridge that’s located near the Thailand-Myanmar border. Cross over into the nearby village to try some authentic Mon food and buy handcrafted items.
During the dry season, you’ll be able to walk the ruins of Wat Samprasob, aka “The Sunken Temple” that’s almost fully submerged for most of the year.
Image credit: @domovoy via Instagram
Dubbed “Knife Edge” for its narrow ridges, Khao Chang Phueak is a favourite among trekkers. While its name sounds daunting, it’s actually considered a moderately-challenging trek.
Image credit: @metas.34 via Instagram
Terrestrial-looking columns caused by land erosions make Pong Yup look like a cross between a maze and a mini Grand Canyon. It’s considered by many as sacred ground.
Image credit: @khem_tc via Instagram
Lam Khlong Ngu National Park has several caves that you can explore. One of such is Tham Sao Hin. Exploring its limestone caverns will feel like you’re discovering a lost realm. Just note that the park is currently closed until 31st October 2024 as a safety measure during the rainy season.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: Take a train from Thonburi Railway Station to Kanchanaburi Railway Station.
Estimated travel time: 2.5 hours
Image credit: @rodrigo.b.deoliveira.3 via Instagram
A paradise of sand, Koh Samet is an island that’s known for its many beaches. If you want to stay away from shopping and visiting theme parks, this will be the perfect spot for your getaway. Boasting the bluest waters and whitest sand, Ao Wong Duean will not disappoint. At low tide, stretches of sand get super expansive, perfect for some Baywatch-inspired slo-mo prancing.
Image credit: @amyboulert via Instagram
If you think Koh Samet is secluded, then consider its Ao Wai beach even more so; it’s one of the more tranquil beaches you’ll find around.
Image credit: @aiminursyameem.sohaimi via Instagram
Haad Sai Kaew is pretty much the crown jewel of the island; translated to Diamond Beach, this is where most of the action on the island happens. There’s a variety of restaurants to fill your tummy at, and several water activities, like parasailing and jet skiing, that you can partake in.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Koh Samet: Take a bus from Ekamai Bus Terminal to Ban Phae Pier. From the pier, take a ferry to Koh Samet.
Estimated travel time: 2.5 hours
Image credit: @sinedgn via Instagram
Khao Yai is full of locations that’ll make your IG followers think that you’re either in a whole other country or on the set of a blockbuster fantasy film; the area’s full of places with stunning backdrops. Head to the top of Khao Yai National Park, at Pa Deo-Die, and you might even spot a majestic falcon or eagle, above the park’s breathtaking expanse.
Image credit: @yolandaljy via Instagram
Conveniently, after a day of nature walking, you can unwind with a glass of cabernet at PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, found within the national park itself.
You can step into Tolkien’s fantastical domain of The Shire at Baan Suan Noi, where even if you’re not staying the night, there’s a hut where you can dress up as hobbit folk and capture your LoTR moment.
Image credit: @michelleous_ via Instagram
Palio Village will give you some serious Under the Tuscan Sun feels. It’s a tiny Italian-themed village, full of cute cafes and rustic architecture. Truly belissimo!
The largest flower garden in Thailand, The Bloom is a grand sight to see even if you’re not a floral enthusiast.
Image credit: @ayyuditaprl via Instagram
If you’ve got a fondness for sunflowers, then hop on over to Saraburi Sunflower Field. Its endless fields will make it seem like you’re wading through a gorgeous sea of bright yellow.
Image credit: @2wheels1drone via Instagram
A great way to pass the time without costing you dollars is to put yourself through a maze – Pete Maze isn’t too challenging, plus, once you find your way out, the overlooking view is quite pretty.
Image credit: @flypotatofly via Instagram
Hidden within a forest, the Secret Art Garden is exactly as its name suggests – a whimsical little spot that’s a world unto its own, full of flowers, exquisite paintings and sculptures, and cafes that are super family-friendly.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Khao Yai: Take a bus from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Pak Chong (nearest town to Khao Yai).
Estimated travel time: 3 hours
An island that’s like Phuket size-wise, Koh Chang is much lower profile. It’s called “Elephant Island” due to the fact that part of it is shaped like an elephant, and also because you’ll encounter many there. Out of 7 different waterfalls throughout the island, Klong Plu Waterfall is the most popular one, thanks to the nearby nature walk that’ll bring you around the lush surroundings.
Image credit: @wielocha.pawel via Instagram
Klong Neung Waterfall is the tallest waterfall on the island, so expect the falls and currents to be extra strong – and the pools deeper than most – here.
The largest stretch here, Klong Prao Beach is great for long walks along the coast. The corals are a sight to behold, and you may be lucky to see sea turtles and whale sharks. If you’re on the lookout for action, Lonely Beach is the most happening beach here. It’s a backpacker haven, so look forward to having a drink or two with fellow travellers.
Since Koh Chang is within close proximity to a few islands, a day-trip within a day trip is very possible. In less than an hour – it takes just 20 minutes to reach neighbouring island Koh Kood. Another adjacent island, Koh Wai, is so quiet, you’ll be hard pressed to find vehicles around. And WiFi is only found in some of the bungalows and restaurants – talk about a digital detox!
Image credit: Tree Top Adventure Park
Treetop Adventure Park is similar to OBS, but with cooler activities like flying skateboard – similar to flying fox, but with skateboards. You can even go on it with a bicycle!
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Koh Chang: Take a flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport.
Estimated travel time: 1 hour
Image credit: @jennampc via Instagram
Samut Prakarn is just a 30-minute drive from Bangkok, and can even be reached by the BTS Skytrain with a one-day pass (฿150). It is home to the Ancient City, the largest open-air museum in the world, with replicas of iconic Thai monuments and sites all around. One such site is the Pavillion of the Enlightened, which showcases an amalgamation of architectural styles from Thailand, Myanmar, and China.
Another eye-catching site to look out for is the Sumeru Mountain Palace. It’s on top of a large pond with a humongous dragon circling the palace, representing protection of sacred places. Entry to the Ancient City is cheap, with it costing ฿700/pax.
At ~S$26/pax, admission might seem steep, but given that the place is around 300 acres big, it’s well worth the price since you’ll need to spend a full day enjoying the palace. In total, visitors spend at least 5-6 hours here to see all 120 gorgeous structures.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Samut Prakarn: Drive for 30 minutes or take a bus from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, which will take around 45-90 minutes.
Estimated travel time: 30 minutes
Image credit: @i_popo6666 via Instagram
Ride out a bit further from Samut Prakarn, and you will reach Nakhon Pathom. You will find Phra Pathom Chedi, which holds the title of the world’s largest stupa at a staggering 120.45m tall. The stupa dates all the way back to the 3rd century, when Buddhism was first introduced to Thailand.
Image credit: @__tati__kh__ via Instagram
Just in case that wasn’t astonishing enough, check out the Wat Samphran Dragon Temple, a 80m-tall temple with a 300m long dragon slithering around it.
Image credit: Flickr
Another cool religious site to visit would be Phutthamonthon, a park with a huge statue of Buddha atop the pedestal. The Buddha statue is 15m tall, and overlooks a park as a tribute to Sindartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. There is no entrance fee required here too, so feel free to meditate amidst the lush greenery and admire the beauty of the place.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Nakhon Pathom: Drive for an hour to the location.
Estimated travel time: 1 hour
Image credit: @kokohei.1217 via Instagram
Thailand goes hand-in-hand with floating markets, and touristy as they may seem, you’ve probably given this a miss for other attractions. If you’ve never been to a floating market before, visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi. You’ll be ferried in boats to view the floating stalls selling a variety of items from souvenirs to street food.
You can experience this on the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour (from S$40.59/pax). No worries about being pressured to buy anything on the tour, there’s none of that here.
For sightseeing, head to Khoa Ngu Stone Park North for panoramic views of towering limestone karsts. If you’re going at the end of the year, you can also catch the Nassatha Light Festival, a yearly light show every December, to feast your eyes upon displays similar to Illumi Singapore.
If you’ve never been hiking overseas before, a visit to Chomphon Cave might just change your mind. The easy hike takes just 30 minutes to cover the paved ground and stone steps. You will be rewarded for your efforts with beautiful views of the cave’s stalactites and stalagmites, giving off Frozen vibes.
Image credit: AlpacaHill Thailand via Facebook
At the same time, hiking may not be suitable for everyone, especially for those with kids in tow. For something kid-friendlier and cuter, visit Alpaca Hill, a farm with not only alpacas, but other endearing animals like baby goats, capybaras, and geese.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Ratchaburi: Drive for 1.5 hours to the location.
Estimated travel time: 1.5 hour
Religious sites are beautiful, but it’s undeniable that shuttling back and forth to visit different sites can be taxing. At Pattaya you can see many eye-catching displays from different religions at the Sanctuary of Truth, a massive 100m-tall castle. It contains teachings from different religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Confucianism in 5 different halls, so you can learn everything everywhere all at once.
Exploring such a massive place will have probably left you feeling peckish. In that case, dine in at Castello Di Bellagio, an Italian-inspired restaurant. You won’t even feel like you’re in Thailand anymore, but rather, a wealthy aristocrat in the mediaeval times. The place charges an entrance fee of ฿200, a cheap price to pay for being a “king”. Plus, you can use that amount to offset the price of food and drinks.
Fans of the Jurassic World franchise can visit Nong Noach Tropical Garden. Surprisingly, it is not a dinosaur amusement park, but rather a botanical garden with life-sized dinosaur displays in it. So, there are many other activities like elephant rides and cultural performances, which you can cover with a Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket (S$19.35).
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Pattaya: Drive for 2 hours to the location.
Estimated travel time: 2 hours
Enjoy the sweeping view from the top of Wat Ratcha Burana.
Image credit: @jperezag11 via Instagram
Sometimes, you just want to detach yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city so much that you wish you were transported back to the ancient times. Well, Ayutthaya Historical Park is as close as you can get to that wish, as it’s known for its beautiful ancient ruins with deep lore. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you know that everything you see there has been properly preserved.
Image credit: @akko_piacere1124 via Instagram
Check out Wat Phra Si Sanphet, distinguished by its 3 stupas. Each stupa was actually colored in gold, as it was built as mausoleums for the 3 kings of Ayyuthaya, until the Burmese-Siamese war in 1767 left it in ruins. Legend has it that the people of that era were giants, hence the large design, but we’d leave that up to your interpretation.
Other cool ruins to visit are Wat Ratcha Burana, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, where you can even climb the “prang” or tower to snap some pics. Once done, you can swing by Chao Sam Phraya National Museum to see recovered artefacts from the ruins.
Image credit: หมู่บ้านญี่ปุ่น JapaneseVillage 日本人村
End off the visit at Ban Yipun, a Japanese village turned museum 10 minutes away, which offers a glimpse into how Japanese refugees from the 16th century lived their lives far from home. This included former mercenaries and samurai, who were later employed by the Ayutthaya Kingdom to defend the land from Burmese forces.
Recommended mode of transport from Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Drive for an hour to the location.
Estimated travel time: 1 hour
Image credit: @nhimsoc13 via Instagram
If your budget doesn’t allow you to visit Greece itself, Santorini Amusement Park is the next best thing.
Taking nothing more than a short road trip or local flight, you’ll be able to reach these locations in no time. Think of them as Bangkok alternatives; areas that you visit once you’ve already covered the typical corners of BKK. And with relatively lesser tourists at these places, you can expect to enjoy a much more relaxed Thai vacation.
For other cool things to do in Thailand, check out:
Cover image adapted from: @amyboulert, @ayyuditaprl, @colorfull_kate via Instagram
Last updated by Syahiran Sean on 9th September 2024.
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