West of Bangkok lies a watery paradise with breathtaking waterfalls, floating villas, rich culture and historical sites.
It isn’t as commercialised as Bangkok, so you get to experience an unspoilt taste of Thailand – especially when you take a step back in time through their village frozen in time.
We’ve gone through all that Kanchanaburi has to offer, and topped it up with enough adventure, romance – and a dash of shopping for the perfect couple vacay.
You know what they say, the couple that travels together, stays together 😉
PS: You’ll definitely need a local SIM card (from USD $4.80) when you arrive in Bangkok – it’s easy and convenient to get one from Klook, so you don’t have to queue at the telco booths. You can also get it bundled with your Klook custom tour!
And if you’re checking out of your hotel on the last day and wish to shop around freely without your luggage… Try Klook’s luggage services (from USD $2.20) which gets your luggage delivered straight to the airport.
Read more:
23 Incredible things to do in and around Kanchanaburi
9 Riverfront hotels in Kanchanaburi that’s floating on the water
9 Riverside restaurants in Kanchanaburi with spectacular views!
Sponsored by Klook
Amazing Family Adventures made Simple – KLOOK Travel
We’re sure you’ve heard of Klook by now.
The best way to get around Kanchanaburi is to either rent a car, or hire a private chartered car with driver from Klook.
We’ve driven on roadtrips ourselves, and have also used Klook’s custom tour. Frankly, we preferred Klook’s private chartered car with driver – they made our roadtrip much more comfortable and convenient.
We didn’t have to worry about driving + it was great to have a local driver around, to help with directions and suggesting new places to visit.
If you’re on the lookout for great things to do around Kanchanaburi or Bangkok (with great prices, we’ve double checked!) – try Klook.
Check out Klook’s customisable Kanchanaburi Itinerary with private car and driver to get your romantic escapade started.
Not only will you get to customise the adventures you’ll have in Kanchanaburi, all the information you’re looking for is listed there.So everything you need is easy and convenient – just the way we like it!
Just for our dear readers, get 8% OFF any first-time bookings (capped at S$15). Simply apply the promo code ‘TRIPCANVASTH’ when you check out!
Overview
Spend 4 days exploring Kanchanaburi, and 1 day shopping in Bangkok!
This itinerary will cover everything needed for the perfect romantic getaway, from floating river resorts to fun places to visit and eat.
We’ve even plotted out the routes for you, so it’s easy to just sit back and fully enjoy your vacation together.! Here’s an overview of our itinerary
Here’s an overview of our itinerary
Tap sections below to scroll to the relevant section
Getting to Kanchanaburi and around from Bangkok
When to travel to Kanchanaburi?
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Total Cost Breakdown
Getting to Kanchanaburi and around from Bangkok
1. Car – We recommend taking a car in Bangkok for your time in Kanchanaburi. The journey is relatively straightforward, and will take up to 3 hours. The best part? Having a car will make exploring Kanchanaburi much easier!
a. Private chartered car with driver – Highly recommended. We’ve rented cars and driven on road trips ourselves, and have also tried hiring private chartered cars with driver (most convenient!).
You won’t have to worry about taking turns to drive or getting lost, when there’s a local who’ll handle these. All you’ll need to do is focus on your family/friends and enjoy the trip to the fullest!
Klook offers very competitive rates from USD $141 per car. Check out their customisable Kanchanaburi Itinerary with Driver!
b. Rent a car: Not recommended for inexperienced drivers. If you’re confident on foreign roads, then you can simply load the directions on GPS (or Google Maps on your phone).
When renting a car, make sure to check your rental car thoroughly – from ensuring that everything is working fine, to when it was last serviced. (Europcar Thailand, from USD $35 / approx. 1091 Baht per day)
2. Train – Be accompanied by sights and use the the 2.5-3 hours to relax with your sweetheart! The downside of this is that there are only two trains departing from Thonburi station to Kanchanaburi at 7:50AM and 1:55PM. Best way to get to the station is by taking a boat from Phra Arthit pier.
3. Bus – From the Southern Bus Terminal, the bus runs every 15-30 mins (depending on class) from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM and it takes approximately 2 hours. From the Northern Bus Terminal, the bus runs every hour from 4am – 7pm (depending on class) and the trip is 4 hours. We suggest opting for first class as there’s only a small difference in price for a lot more comfort.
When to travel to Kanchanaburi?
Best time to visit: November to February (coolest time of the year, highly recommended)
Summer season: March to May (hottest in April, preferable to avoid)
Rainy season: June to October (monsoons make the days cool and nights relatively warm)
Itinerary
Day 1
Breakfast at a local hotspot, challenge darling to a shootout & dine in a net over the river
Assuming you arrive in Don Mueang Airport by 12PM, you can have lunch at a popular spot in Bangkok as you may your way to Kanchanaburi. (If not, you can switch things up according to your personal preference! )
Have some authentic and super crunchy pork belly – Thanee Restaurant (30mins)
Voted as the best Moo Grob (pork belly) for several years, you know it has got to be something sensational.
Photo Via Junesawitri
Unwind with a little flirty competition – Ban Hom Tian (2-3 hours)
Don’t be fooled by its name which is “Home Candle Aroma” when translated directly. It doubles as a shooting range filled with tons of activities.
Photo Via Iammai_92
Cuddle over dinner with the river at your feet – Dejtosapak Restaurant (1.5 hours)
Every table is suspended over the river, and there are netted hammocks along the side for the both of you to laze around in with killer sunsets.
Photo Via Tz_ruttapong
A river romance, great views, raft rides and more – Saiyok Floatel
A popular favourite, this floating hotel has its own private pool on the river, for those who prefer to stay out of the river (most locals and expats love swimming and floating in the river though).
You can also enjoy a little private cruise on your raft with your other half. Your stay includes a complimentary raft ride down the river at 4pm daily! This is one whimsical escape that is out of the ordinary – and provides the ultimate backdrop for some riverside romance.
Photo Via Katawoot_jang
Day 1 Route
Day 2
Get ready to travel through time, play in a waterfall and shop the night market
After filling up on breakfast, put on something cute and comfortable because you’ll be going to a waterfall, an ancient village, and some sights that require exploring!
If you’d like to have a lie in (can’t blame you – the resort is rather amazing), you can skip out on an attraction of your choosing. But if you want to see it all, we suggest leaving the resort by 10AM to make the most of your day.
A peaceful, fairytale-esque waterfall you can lounge in – Erawan Falls (1.5 hours)
Drive 1 hour and 7 mins to Erawan National Park, home to majestic emerald ponds and waterfalls. There are 7 tiers to the waterfall, the first two being easy to get to and the rest for the more… Athletic inclined couples. (You can lounge in the waterfall pool too!)
Photo Via Benny.brooke
It’s a village frozen in time where you shop with ancient money too – Mallika Village (2.5 hours)
Upon reaching, the first thing you’ll need to do is change your Thai Baht to the ancient currency – Satang. Then you can explore Mallika Village to your heart’s content.
From shopping there, and trying out local delicacies to having lunch – you’ll be swept off your feet by how well preserved everything is.
Picturesque and famous, everything that makes a great attraction – Bridge over River Kwai (30 mins)
Take a 24 min drive over to the famous River Kwai bridge and make sure you’re well versed in the art of posing – because it is the perfect spot for an instagram snap. It is a rather popular spot for sight-seeing and photo-taking, but you’ll definitely be able to find a peaceful spot all to yourself.
(You may also choose to purchase fish from the old lady selling them on the bridge, to release into the water – the Thai tradition for getting good luck and blessings.)
Photo Via Equationoflife, Miki_jung11, Geleeers
Share a plate of pineapple fried rice while enjoying the sunset – Keeree Tara Restaurant (1.5 hours)
It’s a 6 min walk to the restaurant from the bridge – and is home to one of the best pineapple fried rice in our opinion – and we insist that you try it together. Why not have one each? One, food tastes better when shared and two… food tastes better when there’s MORE to indulge in.
Photo Via Tode_boss_brand_yuri
Have a stroll, hand in hand, down this night market filled with history – Historic Pakprak Road (2 hours)
Try to get here before you lose all sunlight, because this place is filled with Chino Portugese architecture, beautiful as a backdrop for your couple OOTD. Plus, you’ll see delicacies and desserts here that you won’t get anywhere else.
Photo Via Jiewcabonara
Finally, head back to Saiyok Floatel for your last night of romance on the river. *.*
Day 2 Route
Day 3
Hot-spring hop your way to relaxation and get ready to explore!
Today’s check out day at your floating resort, because there’s another intriguing stay – go glamping!
We’ve also thrown in some ruins to check out, because a little adventure with your significant other is exactly what you need to liven things up a bit! We suggest starting the day at 10AM.
Soak in hot water and let the fishies nibble on your dead skin – Rock Valley Hotspring & Fish Spa (2.5 hours)
Get a move on because it’s 20 minutes to River Kwai Village Hotel, and you’ll need to take a boat from here to the spa. There are 15 different hot springs you two can try, but the full body mud mask will definitely make for good memories.
Photo Via Pond_dnop
Lunch at this country-club styled lush green grounds – Keeree Mantra Restaurant (1.5 hours)
It’s all lush feels and open spaced buildings. An after lunch stroll around the grounds sounds fun and relaxing. BTW, there’s a special menu for the weekends, and the Python fish on it comes highly recommended.
Photo Via Birddrum photography
Angkor Wat? Nahh… I’ll bet you never thought Thai ruins could look this good – Muang Singh Historical Park (1 hour)
An hour here will have you feeling like a pair of archeologists on an expedition. Have an adventure like Lara Croft, and maybe even coordinate your outfits for an epic shot at the ruins!
Photo Via Ahenirain
Live performances and imported beers over dinner all on a floating raft – Taraburee Restaurant (2 hours)
Whether you’re looking for a romantic, fun or flirty time, you’ll definitely find it here at Taraburee. With it’s peaceful ambience, live music, delicious food and more – there’s a whole list of imported beers and moonshine drinks for you two to try.
Photo Via Chipoemarvel
Go glamping with spacious riverside air-conditioned tents – Hintok River Camp
Camping’s pretty cool till you need to use the bathroom. This campsite doesn’t only come with surprisingly spacious tents fully equipped with your en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning – they also serve dinner fresh off the grill.
It’s a good romantic getaway without compromising comfort!
Photo Via B_ibebee
Day 3 Route
Day 4
Get intimate in Pratunam with a dash of shopping and sights
We highly recommend going for an early morning dip at Hintok River Camp’s natural rock pool overlooking the river… Before saying goodbye to glamping and Kanchanaburi!
Before you go, you can also spare some time exploring the campsite, and have breakfast too.
Time to pakto (go dating) and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time! – Farm Cafe’ De Kalavela
Have lunch at this pretty instagram-worthy cafe with big desserts, your last stop in Kanchanaburi before heading back There are main courses and savoury snacks so there are options to choose from. Plus, the vibes will surely take you back to when you first started dating.
Photo Via Ppair
Optional: The last adventure before leaving bangkok – Hellfire Pass Memorial (2 hours)
This is for those who are interested in learning some history and seeing more of Kanchanaburi. Not a romantic place, per se, but it is quite a rich experience to share.
If you’re ok with having 2 hours lesser to shop at Bangkok, we suggest checking out the museum and going for a short hike before hitting up Farm Cafe (above).
Head to a magical floral garden for dinner – Floral Cafe (1.5 hours)
Your first stop in Bangkok will be Floral Cafe. Whether you like flowers or not, this whimsical cafe filled with blooms will take your breath away and be the perfect place for a romantic date. You should reach around 4pm, but if you took on the optional adventure, it should place you there at 6pm.
Take a breather (or a dip in the tub) and check out your new stay – Hotel de Bangkok
20 mins from Floral Cafe, you can finally put your bags down and freshen up. This quiet hotel offers both a bathtub and balcony for those couple chill times. If that hasn’t convinced you – it’s just a 15 minute walk from major shopping areas (ie, Pratunam, Palladium Night Market).
Talk the shopping walk with your shopping bags – Palladium Night Market, Big C, Indy Night Market, Talad Rot Fai
Here’s a list of shopping destinations which aren’t too far away, that you can hit up before turning in. But if you want to make use of your new room, feel free to skip it all :p
Day 4 Route
Day 5
It’s time for you to freestyle up this joint and personalise your day
Today really depends on what time you’re scheduled to fly off. You can leave your luggage with the reception/concierge, if you want to check out early and still go for a last hurrah in Bangkok.
Breakfast is provided at Hotel De Bangkok and there’s a variety of food available, but their chicken rice soup/porridge is fantastic.
If your flight is scheduled at night, and you have the whole afternoon to spend till 6pm, you can choose to do several things.
a. Shopping (check out our shopping guide)
b. Enjoy a spa/massage
c. Have lunch someplace fantastic
d. Indulge in one last romantic activity in Bangkok
But be sure to check the routes/distances and timing needed, so you can mix and match wherever you want to go – according to the time you have!
1. Recommended Shopping Malls (location, location, location)
2. Recommended Cafes (for something out of the ordinary)
3. Recommended Romantic Restaurants (with a view!)
4. Affordable Fine-Dining Restaurants (for the romantic cherry on top!)
5. Recommended Onsens (for a relaxing soak and destress)
6. Recommended Affordable Massage Places (for that last massage)
7. Recommended Romantic Attractions (for your last adventure)
Total Cost Breakdown (for 2 adults)
Flights:
From Singapore = From SGD $99 (lowest return fares from Jetstar)
From Malaysia (KL) = From RM262 (lowest return fares from AirAsia)
Accommodation:
Day 1 & 2 = USD $40 x 2 = USD $80
Day 3 = USD $73
Day 4 = USD $33
Sub-total = USD $186 / RM728.65 / SGD $244.68
Transport:
USD $35 x 4 (if renting a car) = USD $140 / RM548.45 / SGD $184.17 (USD $442 in total for 4 days if you’re hiring Klook’s private chartered car with driver!)
Meals & Attractions (shopping not included):
Day 1 = USD $25
Day 2 = USD $52
Day 3 = USD $65
Day 4 = USD $16
Day 5 = USD $16
Sub-total = USD $174 / RM681.64 / SGD $228.90
Total cost (from Singapore) = ~ SGD $428 per person
Total cost (from Malaysia, KL) = ~ RM1241 per person
By the end of the trip, you two will have made new unforgettable memories. It’s always exciting to go on an adventure with the person you love – because you’ll get to experience new things together.
Especially with a place like Kanchanaburi which has so much to offer and is still under the radar!
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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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Sign up to win fantastic prizes from our partners
Sign up now if you want us to send you an email whenever our partners have something to share with everyone!
FREE air tickets, free stays, free tours or free gifts!
Coming soon! Exclusively on TripCanvas
| PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us |
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