The Ultimate One-Week Road Trip From Bangkok: A Local Experience

If you're looking to experience Thailand in a more authentic way, beyond the usual tourist trail, this one-week road trip offers the perfect mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and local charm. From bustling Bangkok to the serene countryside of Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Mon Village, this itinerary allows you to see a side of Thailand that many miss.

We did the following itinerary as part of a longer 10-day road trip all the way from Phuket. The road trip can be done either by renting a car or a minivan with a driver. We opted for the latter, as we were a large group, and the cost was THB 2,000 per day.

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

We arrived in the vibrant capital of Thailand, Bangkok, eager to dive into its cultural richness. After settling in, we kicked off our trip with something a little more relaxed.

Don’t Miss:

• The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
  These two iconic sites are not to be missed when visiting Bangkok for the first time. The Grand Palace, with its intricate architecture, is awe-inspiring, and the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most sacred sights in Thailand.

• Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
  As the sun sets, Bangkok transforms into a magical place. The dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River offered us spectacular views of the city’s famous landmarks, including the stunning Wat Arun. The Thai buffet on board was fantastic, with a variety of local dishes to enjoy while taking in the beauty of the illuminated skyline.

Where to Stay: @Hua Lamphong Hostel

Clean, modern, and affordable, this hostel is a great option if you’re looking for a convenient location. It’s situated right next to Hua Lamphong Station, making it a perfect base for exploring Bangkok and beyond.

Day 2: Exploring Bangkok

Bangkok is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavours. We spent the day soaking up as much of the city's vibrant atmosphere as possible.

Don’t Miss:

• Shopping at Siam
  If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, Siam is the place to be. It’s home to Bangkok’s top shopping centres like Siam Paragon and MBK, offering everything from designer brands to unique local items.

• Dinner in Chinatown
  For dinner, we headed to Hua Seng Hong Restaurant in Chinatown, which serves up a fantastic mix of Thai-Chinese cuisine. We devoured plates of everything from crispy duck to salapao and seafood, all washed down with jasmine tea.

• Bangkok Flower Market
  Before heading back to the hotel, we strolled through the vibrant Bangkok Flower Market, which is open 24 hours. The explosion of colours and scents made for a memorable end to the day.

Day 3: Bangkok to Ayutthaya

We hit the road early for our next road trip stop: the historic city of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a captivating glimpse into Thailand’s rich history. Once a thriving metropolis and a major centre of trade between the 14th and 18th centuries, Ayutthaya is now home to stunning temple ruins and palaces that showcase the grandeur of its past. Iconic structures like Wat Phra Si Sanphet, with its towering stupas, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, known for its intricate design and riverside location, provide visitors with a sense of the city’s former glory.

Don’t Miss:

• Bang Pa-In Palace
  This summer palace, located on the way to Ayutthaya, offers beautiful European and Thai-style architecture surrounded by tranquil gardens. A lovely spot for a morning stroll.

• Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
  Ayutthaya is brimming with ancient temples. We explored these four stunning sites, each with its own unique atmosphere. Walking through these ruins, we could feel the echoes of the city’s once-glorious past.

Where to Stay: The Old Ayutthaya (อยุธยา แต่กาลก่อน รีสอร์ท)

This newly renovated guesthouse was a great find. Clean, comfortable, and affordable, it was the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. For dinner, we tried Kamlang Phainai Gruel Restaurant (ข้าวต้มกำลังภายใน), where the food was delicious, especially when paired with a cold Chang beer.

Day 4: Ayutthaya to Kanchanaburi

After breakfast, we drove to Kanchanaburi, a town known for its WWII history and natural beauty. Known primarily for the bridge over the River Khwae and its significance during World War II, Kanchanaburi serves as a place of reflection on the tragic history of the Death Railway, where thousands of prisoners of war lost their lives. Beyond its historical importance, Kanchanaburi is blessed with lush landscapes, from the serene riverside to stunning temples.

Don’t Miss:

• Dragon Descendants Museum
  This quirky museum, filled with bright Chinese architecture, is a great place to stop for photos on the way to Kanchanaburi.

• River Khwae Bridge
  Known worldwide from the film The Bridge on the River Kwai, this historic bridge is a poignant reminder of Thailand’s wartime history. We had a leisurely lunch at Goodway Restaurant, which overlooks the river and provided beautiful views while we dined.

• Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
  After lunch, we visited this impressive temple on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The climb is worth it!

• MEENA Cafe
  For a break with a view, we stopped at MEENA Cafe for some Thai tea. The location, right next to the temple, gave us stunning views of the nearby rice paddies and temple structures.

Where to Stay: Naangpaya (บ้านไร่นางพญา)

Located in the peaceful countryside, these clean and affordable bungalows are surrounded by lush nature, making it the perfect retreat. Dinner was at a local favourite, Khrua Phakdi Restaurant, which served up fantastic Thai cuisine.

Day 5: Kanchanaburi to Mon Village

We started the day early, as we wanted to make the most of the stunning landscapes and historical landmarks on our way to Mon Village on the Thai-Myanmar border. Mon Village is a hidden gem nestled along the river in the remote district of Sangkhla Buri, offering an authentic glimpse into the unique Mon culture. The Mon culture is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia, with its roots tracing back to the early civilizations in present-day Myanmar and Thailand. The Mon people are an ethnic group originally from what is now central Myanmar, and they have played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of the region.

Don’t Miss:

• Skywalk Kanchanaburi City
  Before driving off to Mon Village, check out this viewing platform in downtown Kanchanaburi. Make sure to arrive as soon as it opens to enjoy the breathtaking views without the crowds.

• Tham Krasae Railway Bridge
  One of the most dramatic sections of the Death Railway, this bridge is a must-see. The history behind the railway and the views of the Kwai Noi River are captivating.

• Hua Cha Tea House
  On the road to Mon Village, we found Hua Cha Tea House—possibly the most beautiful tea house we’ve ever visited (pictures below). Its serene riverside location and delicious teas made it a highlight of the trip.

• Lake Boat Ride to the Underwater Temples
  After checking into our accommodation in Mon Village, we took a boat ride on the lake to see the famous underwater temples, which were as eerie as they were beautiful.

Where to Stay: ธนโชติแพริมน้ำสังขละบุรี (“Thanachot Riverside Sangkhlaburi”)

Although this was the least comfortable accommodation we stayed at during our time in Thailand, it turned out to be the most memorable. Ending the night on a floating raft (yes, this accommodation is a raft) with our Thai friends and family, enjoying home-cooked food and far too many Chang beers, singing along to Thai and Korean songs was a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 6: Mon Village to Erawan National Park to Nakhon Pathom

Leaving Mon Village behind, we headed to Erawan National Park for a day of hiking and swimming. Erawan National Park is renowned for its stunning seven-tiered Erawan Waterfalls, which cascade down limestone cliffs into emerald pools. Named after the three-headed white elephant from Hindu mythology, the waterfalls are a breathtaking sight, each tier offering unique scenery and opportunities for swimming. As you hike up through the lush jungle, you’re greeted by crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and the soothing sound of rushing water. The fourth tier, in particular, is a hidden gem, with fewer crowds and an idyllic spot for a refreshing dip, surrounded by vibrant greenery. The park itself is a haven for nature lovers, with diverse wildlife and beautiful trails that lead you deeper into Thailand’s unspoiled landscapes.

Don’t Miss:

• Mon Bridge
  Before leaving Mon Village, start the day with a peaceful stroll along the Mon Bridge, the longest wooden bridge in Thailand. The serene views over the river as the mist lifted created the perfect start to our morning. After the walk, we enjoyed a traditional Mon breakfast at Mon Restaurant, a delicious local way to fuel up for the day.

• Swim in the Erawan Waterfalls
  The park’s famous waterfalls are spread over seven tiers, and we spent most of our time at level 4, which was quieter and had perfect swimming conditions. The cool water was a refreshing break after the hike.

Where to Stay: Trendy Hotel (โรงแรม เทรนดี้)

In Nakhon Pathom, we stayed at Trendy Hotel, which was clean, affordable, and close to a shopping mall where we grabbed dinner after a long day.

Day 7: Nakhon Pathom to Bangkok (or Beyond)

Before heading back to Bangkok (or in our case, continuing south to Phuket), we took the opportunity to explore a little more of Nakhon Pathom. Nakhon Pathom is one of Thailand’s oldest cities, rich in history and culture, located just west of Bangkok. The city is most famous for Phra Pathommachedi, the tallest stupa in Thailand, as well as its agricultural produce. The city offers a slower pace compared to Bangkok, with its serene temples, historical sites, and local markets providing insight into Thai life.

Don’t Miss:

• Phra Pathommachedi
  This impressive stupa is the tallest in Thailand, and stands as a central landmark and spiritual symbol for Thai Buddhists. It’s well worth a visit before you head to your next destination.

• Sweet Pomelo and Khao Moo Daeng
  Nakhon Pathom is famous for its sweet pomelo and Khao Moo Daeng (red pork rice), which we made sure to sample before hitting the road again.

Final Thoughts

This one-week road trip is a perfect blend of Thailand’s cultural treasures, historical landmarks, and stunning natural beauty. From the busy streets of Bangkok to the peaceful temples of Ayutthaya and the lush landscapes of Kanchanaburi, this trip gave us a deeper understanding of Thailand’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another adventure, this itinerary will show you a side of Thailand you’ll never forget.