Planning a road trip in Southern Thailand can feel overwhelming, especially if you want to see more than just cities. Many people do not realise that driving from Bangkok To Krabi By Car lets you stop at hidden gems along the way.
This blog gives you a simple 7-day itinerary with clear stops and must-see sights, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy both comfort and adventure. Get ready to find your next favourite route.
Day 1-2: Exploring Bangkok and the Journey to Hua Hin
Discover the lively streets of Bangkok and begin a picturesque journey to Hua Hin. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bangkok’s markets and temples, then head towards Hua Hin for a taste of luxurious stops and coastal allure.
Highlights in Bangkok
Grand Palace remains a must-see. The temple complex is over 200 years old, rich with golden rooftops and intricate art. Wat Pho sits nearby, famous for its 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha.
Street markets buzz from the morning till late night; Chatuchak Weekend Market has over 15,000 stalls selling clothes, food, art and souvenirs.
Khao San Road gives you street food, music and backpacker vibes in one spot. Tuk-tuks zip through busy streets as locals head to work or tourists visit places like MBK Centre or Siam Paragon.
“Bangkok brings together old Thai tradition with modern city life,” sums up how each day looks here… Next stop: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Phra Pathom Chedi mark the start of your road trip out of town.
Must-visit stops: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Phra Pathom Chedi
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market sits about 100 km from Bangkok, perfect for a road trip break. Stalls float on the canal, selling fresh fruit, noodles, and souvenirs from wooden boats.
Visit early in the morning to skip crowds and catch lively scenes. Rent a small paddle boat for close-up views of traders at work; prices start around 150 THB per person.
Phra Pathom Chedi stands tall at over 120 metres in Nakhon Pathom. This golden stupa is one of the tallest Buddhist monuments worldwide. The temple grounds stay busy with monks and locals paying respect daily.
Entry costs about 60 THB for tourists. Stop here for photos or quiet moments before heading down southern Thailand’s driving route to Hua Hin or beyond.
Day 3-5: Scenic Drives and Stops Along the Gulf Coast
Day 3-5 introduces you to scenic drives along the Gulf Coast. You’ll discover key attractions like Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and Phraya Nakhon Cave, offering stunning natural landscapes and fascinating exploration opportunities.
Key attractions: Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and Phraya Nakhon Cave
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park sits on the Gulf coast. The park features limestone mountains, quiet beaches, and wetlands packed with birds. It covers over 98 square kilometres and is Thailand’s first marine national park.
Birdwatchers can spot over 300 types of birds here, especially from November to February.
Phraya Nakhon Cave draws many travellers for its secret feel. Inside the cave stands a royal pavilion built in 1890 for King Rama V. Sunlight shines through an open roof around mid-morning, lighting up the pavilion below.
A short hike from Laem Sala Beach brings you to this famous spot—perfect for photos before setting off toward Krabi town and more southern sights.
Day 6-7: Arrival in Krabi and Local Exploration
Arrive in Krabi, where you can explore top spots such as Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and the stunning Hong Island Viewpoint – offering an unforgettable experience of Southern Thailand’s breathtaking beauty.
For a detailed guide on this awe-inspiring journey, read our full blog post!
Top spots: Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Hong Island Viewpoint
Ao Nang attracts with soft sand and clear water, perfect for a swim or stroll. Lively bars, seafood spots, and shops line the beach road. Rent a motorbike for easy travel along the coast or to nearby attractions.
For many people on a 7-Day Self-Drive Itinerary: Bangkok To Krabi By Car, this is often their first stop in Southern Thailand.
Railay Beach sits just 15 minutes away by long-tail boat from Ao Nang. High cliffs make it famous among rock climbers worldwide. Relax on Phra Nang Cave Beach or walk hidden trails in lush jungle areas close by; no cars reach Railay so paths stay quiet and clean.
Hong Island Viewpoint rises above emerald waters near Krabi town. Take a day trip from Ao Nang by speedboat or join an island-hopping tour for great views of Southeast Asia’s limestone peaks and blue sea below.
The walk up takes about 20 minutes but rewards you with photo-worthy scenes at every turn; bring water as it gets hot quickly during mid-day trips through southern Thailand’s Gulf coast region.
Conclusion
After an exciting 7-day self-drive adventure from Bangkok to Krabi, you’ve encountered the best of Southern Thailand’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural treasures. From the lively bustle of Bangkok to the serene beauty of Krabi, this road trip has been an unforgettable journey packed with breathtaking sights and exciting discoveries.
You’ve explored ancient temples, wandered through bustling markets, and immersed yourself in the scenic beauty along the Gulf coast. The road trip not just offered picturesque drives but also led you to pristine beaches and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
This itinerary allowed for a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in their travels through Southern Thailand.
With memories made and diverse experiences under your belt, this self-drive journey has undoubtedly left its mark as an ultimate travel escapade through captivating landscapes.
At SPS Car Hire Thailand, we have some great rental car options for such a long drive across the Kingdom. Please click on the button below to see our rental car options.
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