Table of Contents
Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam
This city was known as the Invincible Fortress and is about an hour’s drive away by car from Bangkok. It was founded in 1351 by King U-Tong and became a great metropolis admired by European travelers of the time. Currently, it is part of the World Heritage selected by UNESCO.
The city can be easily visited on your own, but if you prefer, you can also join a group with a local guide.
Further information in this post about Ayutthaya.
Lopburi, the city of monkeys
This town is located north of Bangkok about two hours away by car. Although it was the protagonist of the history in several periods, is best known for the temple of monkeys, the Wat Prang Sam Yod. The visit can be combined with Ayutthaya.
Further information in the post about Lopburi.
Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa Floating Markets
For centuries, canals were the primary means of transport for fresh products from the countryside to the urban centres, where merchandise was offered in its floating markets. Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa are two examples that remain today.
You can make the excursions by yourself, nevertheless, Damnoen Saduak generally combines with Mae Klong train market on a morning excursion and in this case it is recommended to join a group in a Tour with a local guide.
Amphawa is located in a canal already near the mouth of the Mae Klong River, just over an hour’s drive from Bangkok. This market operates from Friday to Sunday with the particularity that its schedule is in the afternoon and evening.
A popular leisure area among the inhabitants of Bangkok where you can taste especially fish and seafood.
Further information in the article about Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa.
Mae Klong Railway Market
Located on the train tracks, the commercial activity is paralyzed for a few minutes when the convoy enters the city, manoeuvring quickly the awnings that cover the stands to make way for it. A good example of a genuine and very lively Thai market.
The excursion can be done on your own with public transport or in a private vehicle, you can also join a group that includes the Damnoen Saduak floating market.
Further information in the post Mae Klong train market.
Bridge over the River Kwai & Death Railway
In Kanchanaburi is located the most interesting section of the death railway ordered by the Japanese in World War II, as well as the famous bridge over the Kwai River.
You can visit it in the day from Bangkok and you can also include in the excursion Erawan National Park or Damnoen Saduak floating market.
More information in the post about the death railway.
Erawan National Park
The visit to this national park is one of the longest that can be done on the same day from Bangkok. In Erawan the mountain range rises between 165 and 996 meters, and it has some of the most famous waterfalls in Thailand. The visit can be easily combined with the Death Railway.
The excursion is possible in the day, but keep in mind that you will spend many hours in the minivan on the way out and during the return, overnight in Kanchanaburi is a good option.
Further information in the post about Erawan National Park.