Weekend Road Trips from Bangkok: Khao Yai, Ayutthaya and Hua Hin

Bangkok is only 1–3 hours from mountains, sea and historic cities. With your own rental car you can leave whenever you're ready — no tour-bus schedules. Here are three popular weekend routes: pick up at our Bangkok branch and go.

1. Khao Yai — nature (Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima)

• Distance/time: ~190 km, about 2.5–3 hours from Bangkok (the M6 motorway saves time)
• Highlights: Khao Yai National Park, viewpoints, Haew Suwat waterfall, vineyards, valley cafés and sheep farms
• Driving tips: the park road is steep and winding — use a low gear downhill instead of riding the brakes. In the rainy season expect fog and slick roads: slow down and use headlights.

2. Ayutthaya — history

• Distance/time: ~80 km, about 1–1.5 hours — great as a day trip
• Highlights: Wat Mahathat (the Buddha head in tree roots), Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, floating markets, boat noodles and the famous roti sai mai
• Tip: old-town lanes are narrow and busy — park at a temple lot and continue on foot or by bicycle.

3. Hua Hin — the sea (Prachuap Khiri Khan)

• Distance/time: ~200 km, about 2.5–3 hours
• Highlights: Hua Hin beach, the night market, the historic railway station, Khao Sam Roi Yot park and plenty of seaside cafés
• Tip: Phetkasem Road is busy on holidays — leave early to avoid traffic, and allow time to find parking near the night market in the evening.

Before you go

• Book ahead and upload your documents in your account for a faster pickup.
• Inspect the car and photograph it before leaving; check fuel level and tyre pressure.
• Our cars come with unlimited mileage, so drive freely. Bring an Easy Pass/M-Flow tag or cash for tolls and the motorway.

Ready? Choose your pickup and return dates at the Bangkok branch and start your weekend trip.