What you should know before hiring a car in Udon Thani
| Udon Thani city centre | ||
| Udon Thani International Airport (UTH): 3 km from city centre | ||
Practical information
Where to rent a car in Udon Thani?
Located in the Isaan region in the north-east of Thailand, the city of Udon Thani is the capital of the Udon Thani Province and lies not far from Thailand's border with Laos. Udon Thani International Airport serves Udon Thani, operating domestic flights to cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket; as well as to international destinations such as Hong Kong. A number of car rental companies can be found at Udon Thani International Airport, including Hertz, Avis and Thai Rent a Car. Rail connections to other towns and cities in Thailand are available, with the Udon Thani railway station serving as the main train station in the city. However, exploring Udon Thani and the surrounding areas by rental car allows for an unparalleled amount of freedom to see the sights at your own pace.
Driving in Udon Thani: parking and other tips
When driving in Udon Thani, be sure to follow Thai road rules. These include driving on the left; not driving under the influence of alcohol (the blood alcohol limit in Thailand is 0.5mg); and only using your cell phone if in hands free mode. The speed limits in Thailand are usually 50km/h in urban areas;90km/h on rural roads; and 120km/h on the motorways. However, look out for signs indicating any different.
While on street parking is available in Udon Thani, perhaps the easiest option for drivers is to use a parking lot or to park at the airport car park. Alternatively, explore Udon Thani by foot and public transport, before renting a car to explore the surrounding areas.
Road trips from Udon Thani
The Isaan region of Thailand, home to the city of Udon Thani, is filled with beautiful natural attractions and interesting cities. Explore the area by rental car and discover all it has to offer; here are three of our top picks for a road trip from Udon Thani by rental car.
A Road Trip Around The Isaan Region
The Isaan region is often overlooked by visitors to Thailand, but it holds plenty of charm and things to see and do, making it an interesting destination in the country. The road trip begins in Udon Thani, in which visitors can see attractions such as the Nong Prajak Park and the Udon Thani Provincial Museum; as well as enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife scene. Then, it's time to rent a car and explore the Isaan region in which the city is located. You can set your own route, but some popular attractions in the area include the Phimai Historical Park; Khao Yai National Park; and the city of Ubon Ratchathani.
Udon Thani to Chiang Mai
Located in northern Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy city life in proximity to stunning natural surroundings. From Udon Thani to Chiang Mai, it's a 378 mile drive taking over nine hours – but the destination is worth it. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, visitors can see attractions such as the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple; the Elephant Nature Park; and the Wat Phra Singh temple.
Udon Thani to Bangkok
Another road trip destination a little further afield, but well worth the drive through beautiful Thai countryside, is the country's capital city of Bangkok. 350 miles by road from Udon Thani, renting a car to drive to Bangkok makes for a memorable and scenic journey. Bangkok itself offers something for all travel tastes. From cultural attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun temple, to the hustle and bustle of the popular Khaosan Road (known for its nightlife), the city boasts a large variety of things to see and do. Once you've explored the city, relax in the centrally located Lumphini Park.