Whether you're a traveler based in Bangkok, here for a business trip, or an expat living in Bangkok, there are many weekend getaway options that are quite close to the city.

Here are the best destinations - both for travelers and locals alike!

While you can get to these places with public transportation, having a car to drive around can be very convenient. Buses run on schedule and in some region, it's not that frequent. 

I'd recommend renting one. Check out your car rental options here

Pattaya 

One of the favorite getaway destination for locals and very popular among tourists visiting Bangkok! Pattaya offers a wonderful beach vacation experience only 2 hours away from Bangkok. 

There are plenty of activities and things to do in Pattaya - from swimming in the sea, sunbathing in the beach, to visiting a zoo! There are lots of seafood restaurants that offer fresh seafood. In fact, as you walk along the beach, there'll be people selling fresh seafood for you too!  Pattaya is no doubt my number one getaway from Bangkok! 

If you're looking for a place to stay, there are many fantastic hotels and resorts at various price range. For solo travelers who'd like to keep the budget under $100 a night, you can see some great hotel choices here. 

Pattaya is one of the most popular travel destinations in Thailand! It's a beach vacation. It's only a 2 hours drive from Bangkok. And there are plenty of shops, tourist attractions, and fresh seafood restaurants.

I visit Pattaya several times a year. Each time, I'd try different hotels from super cheap to mid-price range. And here are my list of the best hotels in Pattaya for your perfect vacation, whether you're travelling solo, couple, or with family! 

Wondering what to do in Pattaya? Check out things to do in Pattaya here where you can also find discounted tickets!

For your convenience, you can click on the hotel name to book your next vacation. 

 U Jomtien Pattaya

Wouldn't you just love to wake up to the view of the tranquil ocean, the sound of the gentle waves, and the smell of the sea breeze? I cannot recommend this hotel enough. Read my review here 


U Jomtien offers all rooms with a sea view! The rooftop bar is amazing and very relaxing, with the open view of the ocean.

​It's literally steps away from the beach where you can soak up the sun. This is totally my top choice when I travel to Pattaya.

Rooms tend to get fully booked fast, so make sure to reserve early

Staycation is the trend in 2020 now. Even if you cannot get away from Bangkok, spending a few nights at a nice hotel can be very refreshing. It's actually quite nice to have the vacation without much travel, and relaxation is only a short trip away! 

​U Sukhumvit Hotel 

This hotel is in a very nice area of the vibrant Sukhumvit neighborhood. The service was amazing. I loved their 24 hour stay policy - if you check in at 6 pm, you have till 6 pm the next day to check out!

The breakfast is amazing. Some of the best I've had at any hotel in Bangkok. Who'd serve proper egg benedict at breakfast buffet? The selection was just absolutely amazing, and the food incredibly delicious! What's not to love? 

The location was very convenient.  The hotel has free Tuk-tuk shuttle service to Terminal 21, where the food court is both cheap and amazing! And it's near the BTS, so you can travel anywhere easily. I totally recommend U Sukhumvit for your next travel in Bangkokl!