bangkok tourist attraction near me

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bangkok is everything you'd expect from the capital of Thailand: it's noisy, crowded, colorful, exciting, infuriating, and simply magical. Bangkok is a microcosm of what makes Thailand so special. Centuries-old temples and ancient sites sit side by side with 21st-century shopping malls that have a kitschy, yet high-end ambience. Bangkok can be overwhelming, but it's also a fascinating city that represents Southeast Asia's tension between the developed and developing worlds.

Bangkok also serves as a gateway to many other parts of Thailand . From here, you can hop a short flight to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and other popular destinations. You can also board a train or hop on a bus for little money, and visit national treasures such as Ayutthaya , Lopburi, and many other gems around the country.

Discover the best things to do in this bustling city with our list of the top attractions in Bangkok.

1. Admire the Beauty of the Grand Palace

3. wat arun, 4. wat traimit, temple of the golden buddha, 5. wat suthat, 6. giant swing, 7. national museum & wang na palace, 8. stock up on authentic souvenirs at chatuchak market, 9. shop by boat at the damnoen saduak floating market, 10. discover khao san road, 11. jim thompson house, 12. walk around lumpini park, 13. shop at terminal 21, 14. experience street food stalls, 15. take a river cruise, 16. step inside the temple of the emerald buddha, 17. pass through wat mahathat, 18. explore chinatown, 19. ride the skytrain, 20. shop at iconsiam, 21. take a muay thai lesson, 22. visit kalayanamit, 23. indulge at a spa, 24. check into a luxury hotel, where to stay in bangkok for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to bangkok, map of tourist attractions in bangkok, best time to visit bangkok, thailand.

If you only visit one major historical tourist attraction in Bangkok, this should be the one. The royal compound lives up to its name, with spectacular structures that would put the most decadent modern monarchs to shame.

Built in 1782, the grand palace was the royal residence for generations and is still used for important ceremonies and accommodating heads of state. Dress modestly when visiting the Grand Palace, which basically means covering your arms and legs and avoiding any sloppy attire.

To avoid any hassle and to make the most of your visit, take the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Tour . This is a half-day sightseeing tour, either morning or afternoon, with pickup from your hotel and a local guide to put what you are seeing in context. Without a guide, it's easy to miss important features or not fully understand the relevance of what you are seeing, and the hotel pickup makes the whole experience that much simpler.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon

• Read More: Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide

Located immediately south of the Grand Palace precinct, Wat Pho makes an excellent addition to your palace tour, provided your feet are up for more walking.

The temple was built by King Rama I and is the oldest in Bangkok. It has long been considered a place of healing, and was famous centuries ago for its pharmacy and as Thailand's first "university"-both established by King Rama III. You can get a Thai or foot massage at the traditional medical school on the premises, but the prices are significantly higher than what you will find at massage parlors elsewhere in the city.

Today Wat Pho is best known for the Temple of the Reclining Buddha , where you'll find a statue so big (45 meters long and 15 meters high), it cannot be viewed in its entirety but only appreciated in sections. The soles of the feet, inlaid with a myriad of precious stones, are particularly beautiful. Look also for the long earlobes signifying noble birth, and the lotus-bud configuration of the hand to symbolize purity and beauty.

Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District

Wat Arun is something of a triumphant complex, dating back to the time of ancient battles between the former Siam and Burma. Having fallen to the Burmese, Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble and ashes, but General Taksin and the remaining survivors vowed to march "until the sun rose again" and to build a temple here. Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, was that temple. It is where the new king later built his royal palace and a private chapel.

If you climb to the top of the prang just before sunset, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable view as the sun sinks over the Chao Praya River. Even if you don't plan on doing any climbing, sunset is really the time to take in this place in all its glory.

Address: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok

Sheer luck (or lack thereof) makes this attraction special. During the 1950s, the East Asiatic Company purchased the land around the temple.

A condition of the sale was the removal of a plaster statue of Buddha, but the statue proved too heavy for the crane being used. The cable parted and the figure was dropped, being left overnight where it fell. It happened to be in the rainy season, and when next morning some monks walked past, they noticed a glint of gold shining through the plaster. The coating was removed, revealing a 3.5-meter Buddha cast from 5.5 tons of solid gold.

All attempts to trace the origin of this priceless statue have so far failed, but it is assumed to date from the Sukhothai period, when marauding invaders threatened the country and its treasures, and it became common practice to conceal valuable Buddha figures beneath a coating of plaster. No one knows how it came to Bangkok, but here it stands, available for the admiration of visitors from all over the world.

Wat Suthat, adjacent to the Great Swing , is one of the oldest and most beautiful of Bangkok's Buddhist temples. Three kings had a hand in its construction: it was begun soon after the coronation of Rama I (founder of the Chakri dynasty) in 1782, continued by Rama II, and completed 10 years later by Rama III.

Apart from its delightful architecture, the temple boasts some exceptionally interesting wall paintings. Wat Suthat is less popular than some of the other temple complexes in the city, so you'll enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience here.

Address: Bamrung Muang Road, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon

In the center of the busy square in front of Wat Suthat stands one of Bangkok's most eye-catching sights: the 27-meter-high teak frame of the so-called Giant Swing. Built in the 1700s to be used as part of traditional Brahmin (Hinduist) ceremonies, the swing was later damaged by lightning and became just decorative.

This used to be the focus of a religious ceremony held every year in December after the rice harvest. Teams of three took turns to balance on a dangerously narrow board and be swung 25 meters or more off the ground "up to Heaven," at which point they would attempt to catch a bag of silver coins in their teeth. King Rama VII banned the contest in 1932, following a number of fatal accidents.

History buffs will want to devote at least half a sightseeing day to the national museum. Until the mid-1970s, this was Thailand's only museum, which explains why its collection is so big and diverse.

Fortunately, just about every exhibit is labeled in Thai and English and guided tours are also offered in English, so you won't miss out on any of the country's fascinating ancient and contemporary history.

King Rama I's Wang Na Palace, located within the grounds of the museum, remains essentially as it was, and stands as a testament to Thai history. Visitors can see regalia, religious and ceremonial artifacts, ceramics, games, weaponry, musical instruments, and the Viceroy's throne, as well as an impressive collection of Buddha figures arranged according to period.

Address: Na Phra That Road, Bangkok

This sprawling semi-outdoor weekend market is the largest in the world and one of the top things to do when visiting Bangkok. Shoppers can find everything from jewelry and religious icons to pet supplies, paper lamps, and delicious street food here. Chatuchak Market is home to over 15,000 stalls offering just about anything you can dream up-even better, any souvenir you might want is probably available here at a much cheaper price than anywhere else in Bangkok.

This is a great place to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in everyday Thai life, so arrive early and clear your schedule for the rest of the day if you want to do this place justice.

The market is adjacent to the Kamphaengpecth Station (MRT), about a five-minute walk from Mochit Skytrain (BTS) Station and Suan Chatuchak (Chatuchak Park) Station (MRT)

For an even more interesting market experience, you can arrange a tour to Damnoen Saduak, a famous floating market located in Ratchaburi (about 1.5 hours outside Bangkok). The popularity of floating markets once earned Bangkok the nickname "Venice of the East."

Keep in mind that floating markets are now highly touristic enterprises, so don't expect an exclusive morning of shopping by boat – but you will be able to buy fresh and delicious foods and interact with locals in an authentic way.

The best way to reach the market is to join a tour such as the Floating Markets Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok , which takes about six hours and includes pickup right from your hotel and transport in an air-conditioned coach.

This is Bangkok's infamous backpacker district, a neighborhood jam-packed with guesthouses, food vendors, clothing stalls, and travelers from every corner of the globe. You'll need to tap into your patience when hanging out here, because while it is colorful and exciting in its own way, the crowds and scents and blaring music can test even the calmest soul.

All that said, Khao San Road is also a great place to pick up a few pairs of baggy fisherman pants, the perennial staple of every backpacker's wardrobe when trekking through Thailand; browse the treasures in a used bookstore; and dig into some delicious Indian food from a neighborhood restaurant.

The historic home of a "self-made American entrepreneur" who disappeared while traveling in Malaysia now stands as a relic of an older time in Bangkok. Jim Thompson settled in Thailand after spending time there as a serviceman around the end of WWII and quickly became a well-known name in the Thai silk industry.

Thompson was awarded the Order of the White Elephant, an important honor given to foreigners who have made significant contributions to Thailand. Thompson's home has been turned into a museum offering insights into his life and business, as well as the history of the city and the Thai silk industry.

Address: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok

Lumpini Park provides visitors with a green oasis amid the traffic and chaos of Bangkok. Hang out on one of several lawn areas, enjoy the shade of a Chinese pagoda, or take a boat out on the lake. Lumpini Park is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying the contrast of the tranquil park with the skyscrapers rising all around it.

Note that the park has been the site of anti-government protests that have occasionally turned violent in the past, so be sure to check on the current political situation before visiting. Keep an eye out for the massive Asian water monitors as well-they can often be found taking a stroll around the lake.

Location: Rama IV Road, between Ratchadamri and Witthayu (Wireless) roads

Don't let the airport-like name fool you. This shopping mall is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok if you're looking for a mix of local and international brands, as well as plenty of unique buys.

Terminal 21 is unique in more ways than one – even by Thailand's shopping standards. Every floor of the mall has been themed to a different international city. Enter at the level of the BTS station and you'll be in Paris; go up a floor and it's Tokyo; another floor and you're staring at the iconic red phone booths of London. The Caribbean, San Francisco, and Istanbul also figure into the design theme.

Other malls of note include the high-end Siam Paragon , and adjacent Siam Discovery , which has more moderately priced chains; fun cafés; and the super luxurious Virgin Active Siam Discovery , self-dubbed "the largest gym in Southeast Asia." Here, visitors can rock climb, try anti-gravity yoga, or visit the unique "Sleep Pod" rooms for the ultimate in relaxation.

To really experience Bangkok, you have to try the local cuisine. You haven't really "done" the city without chowing down on grilled meats and fish, spicy noodles, fresh fruit, and curries. If you think you know Thai food, you're in for a surprise. Whatever you've tried before is nothing like the dishes you'll find here.

You'll have no trouble at all finding vendors to tempt you with treats all around Bangkok and help you live through a quintessential Thailand experience, tucking into a delicious (if mysterious) meal, surrounded by the chaos and heat of the city.

Surprisingly, some of the best street food in Bangkok is on Khao San Road – both in the little stalls lining up the street and in the small shacks and restaurants just off the main road selling pad Thai, pad see ew, and mango sticky rice.

The Chao Phraya River is Bangkok's heartline. Known as the "river of kings," this major waterway will allow you to discover some of the city's most stunning temples and monuments from a completely new angle.

In the evening, you can jump on a dinner cruise to see the lit-up city skyline as you sail along the Grand Palace and Wat Arun and under the Rama VIII Bridge.

During the day, take advantage of Bangkok's many ferries and express boats, which depart from Sathorn Pier and will stop right at the ports of major tourist attractions, including Wat Arun and Ratchawongse. Local canal boats (khlong Saen Saep) are used by the locals to commute to work and are a great way to see the real Bangkok, as the boats zigzag through small canals and behind residential buildings.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or Wat Phra Kaew, is located on the grounds of Bangkok's Grand Palace. It is regarded as one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the Kingdom of Thailand. The temple itself is simply spectacular, as is the Buddha statue itself, which is carved out of bright green jade.

For such a massive reputation, significance, and shrine, the statue itself is rather small. But it has been sitting on its perch since 1784. Hundreds of thousands of tourists and pilgrims pass through the gates to the temple every hear in order to view the statue.

Prior to taking up residence here at the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha traveled for centuries across Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka to Cambodia and Laos. It was one of the most important treasures for King Rama I, who reigned from 1782 to 1809. In fact, when the capital of Thailand was moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, it was partly done so that this statue had a permanent home.

Not far from the Grand Palace is one of the most important temples in Thailand: Wat Mahathat. Not to be confused with the temple of the same name in the historic city of Ayutthaya, Bangkok's Wat Mahathat is deeply significant to the culture and history of Thailand – in fact, it is the final resting place of King Rama IX.

The temple was constructed before the city of Bangkok was founded. Built in 1782, today it is home to one of the largest schools of Buddhism, dedicated to the Mahanikai school, Thailand's largest monastic order.

The temple complex is rather large and may appear confusing, as it is home to several school buildings and offices, but if you press on towards the center, you'll find the temples, which are packed with golden images and statues of Buddha. In fact, it has one of the largest collections of Buddha's image than most other temples in Bangkok.

Of Bangkok's many colorful and diverse neighborhoods, Chinatown stands out as one of its most exciting. In fact, Bangkok's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, and, as it so happens, one of the best.

The main artery of Chinatown is Yaowarat Road. This energetic thoroughfare and its side streets are slammed with restaurants, food carts, gold stores, cafés, herb shops, fruit stalls, and so much more. If you've come to Chinatown to eat, then you'll want to wait until the sun sets, when the entire neighborhood explodes with food stalls overflowing with mouthwatering treats.

Chinatown is slowly revamping, as well. Today you'll find more "fine dining" dim sum houses and swanky hotels than before. Still, the energy is always swirling and chaotic, but it's always one of the most beautiful parts of Bangkok.

Bangkok is famous for many things, and one of them, unfortunately, is the traffic. To go a short distance can sometimes take upwards of half an hour. Fortunately, visitors to Bangkok have a very easy, convenient, and time-efficient option: the Bangkok Skytrain.

Bangkok's BTS Skytrain is truly a game changer. It opened in 1999 and has quickly become the most popular way to get around the city. Travelers love it for its speed, cleanliness, air-conditioning, and price.

The Skytrain does not go everywhere in the city, but it does cover two of the most important areas: Sukhumvit and Silom. Silom will take you from the National Stadium through Silom and Sathorn and out to Bang Wa in the suburbs. Th Sukhumvit line will run from Mo Chit in the north to the eastern province of Samut Prakan.

You can purchase individual tickets, or use a Rabbit Card, which is a pre-paid card that can be loaded as often as you need it.

The BTS Skytrain is absolutely better than sitting in Bangkok traffic, but just be aware that it does not go everywhere in the city, and it stops running at midnight.

Bangkok loves its luxury shopping centers, but none is as popular (or large) as the riverfront ICONSIAM. Perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the 750,000-square-meter mega-mall is a destination in its own right.

The mall is divided into three main sections: ICONSIAM, ICONLUXE, and Siam Takashimaya. Inside each section are further zones that have been designated to highlight parts of Thailand's culture and design. SookSiam, for example, has brought together art, culture, tradition, and food from its many different provinces. It houses more than 3,000 local businesses from all over Thailand.

The facility also has seven dining zones, outdoor park space, and retail devoted to fashion, beauty, health & fitness, Thai crafts, and more. Visiting ICONSIAM is so much more than a day of shopping. It really is a Bangkok (and Thailand) experience.

Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600

Official site: https://www.iconsiam.com/th

Thailand's national martial art, Muay Thai, is famous around the world. Also known as "Thai boxing," the combat sport is known as the "art of eight limbs" because it uses combinations of shins, knees, elbows, and fists.

It's a complicated and challenging sport, but those who practice are devoted to the art. If you're coming to Bangkok, it is the perfect place to get your feet wet in the sport and learn from those who have mastered it.

Many gyms across Thailand, but in Bangkok in particular, offer May Thai training. It is a mecca for May Thai fans, where you will find the best stadiums, gyms, and gear. Bu you'll also find gyms suited to beginners, as well.

Gazing across the Chao Phraya River at Wat Arun, another beautiful, sprawling temple complex may catch your eye. What you're looking at is Wat Kalayanamit. This historic temple was founded in 1825 by a nobleman and a friend of King Rama III.

The most eye-catching structure from across the river is the ordination hall, inside of which sits a massive Buddha image. It is one of the largest images of Buddha in the city. The temple is a combination of both Chinese and Thai architecture, including chedis, pavilions, and statues.

Though not one of the most-visited temples by tourists, it is certainly beautiful and worth a visit because of its historic architecture, the massive Buddha statue, and a 13-ton bell in the bell tower, which is the largest bronze bell in Thailand. It is still an active temple, as well, with monks that live on the site.

One of the many things Thailand is famous for is its affordable spa culture. Whether it's a casual pop-in for a stretchy Thai massage or a full-on day of bliss at a luxury spa, Bangkok has a facility to fill whatever you're looking for.

A traditional Thai massage is the best introduction into Thai spa culture. This style of massage has been around for more than 2,000 years. It's a dry massage, meaning it does not use oils. Instead, the therapists use stretching and rocking techniques to improve flexibility, relieve tension and promote blood circulation.

Thai massage can be used to help alleviate many ailments, from headaches and back pain to flexibility and joint stiffness. You can find affordable Thai massage parlors all over the city of Bangkok. Most massages will be less than 300 Thai baht.

Or you can check into some of the more high-end options for entire menus of treatments, body scrubs, and wraps. Clinique La Prairie, for example, has opened a new treatment center in Bangkok in The St. Regis Bangkok . This wellness center combines both wellness programs with nutrition and medicine to help patients achieve a more well-rounded, balanced life.

Speaking of high-end and luxury, if you can swing a stay at one of Bangkok's many luxury hotels it will be a game-changing experience. Bangkok has no shortage of opulent five-star hotels, from the historic and classic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok to the sleek, chic, newer Capella Bangkok .

Bangkok has plenty of budget-friendly options and hotels across the spectrum, but there is something about a luxury hotel stay in Bangkok that truly makes the experience magical. Many five-star hotels in Bangkok have world-renowned restaurants, like the two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie by Alain Roux at the Mandarin Oriental. Others have fabulous spas, gorgeous pools, and rooms with spectacular views.

Whether on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, or overlooking Lumpini Park, Bangkok has dozens of five-star hotels that will make your visit a trip to remember.

Bangkok is a big city with many areas where visitors can stay and still have good access to sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Many of the top-end hotels are in the historic Riverside area. Not far away, budget-minded travelers and backpackers often frequent the Khao San Road area, which lies in close proximity to some of the major sites, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra, Wat Pho, and museums.

Sukhumvit is a more modern area with good shopping and easy access to other parts of the city on the Skytrain. This is a good place to find mid-range hotels. Below are some popular hotels in these key areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the best hotels in Bangkok is the ultra-posh Mandarin Oriental in Riverside, with a great location, beautiful pools, and several restaurants, including the Riverside Terrace overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
• Still luxurious but more affordable is the SO/ Bangkok , with great rooms and amenities in a decent location.
• For luxury accommodation in Sukhumvit, the popular boutique hotel, Ariyasomvilla , is a good choice with a variety of room styles, all tastefully decorated. This is a modern hotel with old-world charm in a tranquil setting with a lovely pool and grounds.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A more reasonably priced option in Riverside is the Chatrium Hotel Riverside , overlooking the river. This hotel has a beautiful infinity pool and several restaurants.
• The Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers offers well-appointed rooms and world-class service at a very affordable price. There's also two outdoor pools and five on-site restaurants to enjoy here.
• Also popular is the Glow Pratunam , with a convenient location and decent prices.

Budget Hotels :

• For location, it's hard to beat the Adamaz House , just a short walk off Khao San Road and close to some of the city's most important attractions. The hotel has basic but clean rooms.
• The Phranakorn-Nornlen is a very popular budget to mid-range hotel with a good location and a bed-and-breakfast feel.
• Located in Sukhumvit is the Smart Suites , with budget prices and quality rooms.
• Consider a Tour: To spare yourself the trouble of bargaining for everything and trying to find a taxi that will actually take you where you want to go, a guided tour might be the most practical option. It will save you both time and aggravation-and you'll also get the benefit of having a knowledgeable guide along for the adventure. To see the most famous temples, including the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, take a Private Guided Temples Tour .
• Be Prepared to Bargain : This applies as much to taxi rides as market shopping. Taxi drivers in Bangkok are notorious for overcharging, so agree on a price before getting in. You can also insist that they use their meter, but then watch it carefully to make sure it's not jumping around, as some have been rigged to run faster than they should.
• Take Advantage of Public Transportation : Even with an honest cabbie, rides can get expensive in Bangkok's traffic. Bangkok has a good public transportation system, with both above-ground and underground trains covering a good portion of the city. Buses can take a while because of traffic jams, but trains provide a quick, easy, and cheap way to get around. The system is user-friendly, very affordable, and takes little time to figure out, so take advantage of it while you're in town.
• Be Prepared for the Brutal Heat . There's no sea breeze here to help with the burning temperatures, and no break from the humidity when you're walking the streets of Bangkok. So if you're out for the day, plan on mixing some indoor shopping along the way for some air-conditioned relief. Stay hydrated at all times and wear plenty of sunblock. Choose cotton and linen clothing and grab an umbrella or hat when you're at Chatuchak Market for some extra sun protection.
• Watch Out for Scams: As mentioned above, taxi drivers often try to overcharge or insist that their meters don't work. Use your judgment and walk away from anyone who doesn't seem trustworthy. Another scam to watch out for involves a driver or supposed tour guide who agrees to take you one place and starts making stops along the way, usually at a gem store or a tailor. Drivers get a commission when they bring in tourists, but these places are often overpriced and not worth visiting. Insist that the driver takes you to your original destination, or tell them you're leaving. This will usually get things back on track, but if it doesn't, you'll find another cab quickly enough.

Bangkok's weather is tropical all year-round, which translates to long, hot days no matter what time of the year you arrive. If you'd like a bit of a break in temperatures (high 20s instead of high 30s Celsius), December and January are the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise . But overall, you will not be disappointed with the weather if you visit Bangkok between November and March. Because Bangkok is still very much a tropical destination, the weather can often have a mind of its own. The heavy monsoon rains taper down in early November, and the holiday crowds don't arrive till late December, so you'll see slightly cooler, drier weather and smaller crowds. Bear in mind, however, that the time between November and January is high season, so hotel rates and airfare will be at their highest.

If your plan is to head south to the islands after a stop in Bangkok, arriving between November and April guarantees the best beach and water conditions. In Bangkok, where everything's air-conditioned, and many of the attractions are at least partially indoors, there's no such thing as "the worst time to visit." For example, arriving during the wettest months might seem inconvenient, but it guarantees shorter lines at the main attractions and lower prices almost everywhere.

If you want a peek into local culture, the two major Thai festivals occur in April and November. April is the Songkran festival , which is Thailand's most famous festival. It's the traditional Thai New Year festival, and it's a time when the entire country erupts with celebration. November hosts the Loi Krathong, which is the time to thank the Water Goddess for her abundance, as well as ask forgiveness for the human pollution of the bodies of water. It's a beautiful festival held all over the country, marked by thousands of lanterns that are released into the night sky. In December, all the major shopping areas in Bangkok get decked for Christmas, even though it's not traditionally celebrated in Thailand.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Bangkok & Beyond: No visit to Bangkok is complete without a proper tour of the Grand Palace, the former residence of kings and now a massive museum. For tips on what to see inside the palace, take a look at our article, Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide . Ready to explore outside Bangkok? Find out how to get to popular Ayutthaya in our article, From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There .

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22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

Here's how experts recommend exploring Thailand's capital.

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One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure. Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It's entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. It's a city where street food mingles with Michelin-starred restaurants, and top-rated, modern hotels stand next to antique wooden houses. The energy of Bangkok is a heady mixture of ancient traditions, swirls of incense, the sizzle of chilis on cast-iron woks, an explosion of colorful flowers, flashes of neon, and endless honking from sputtering tuk tuks. It's a city that will ensnare the senses and hook you from the very beginning. "You cannot go to Thailand and not see the capital," says Grant Ekelund, senior travel consultant with InsideTravel Group Ltd, and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. "Even if you want to spend all of your time at the beaches or up in the mountains, you cannot understand those parts until you understand Bangkok — until you've gone down the klongs, wandered the roads, seen the temples, grabbed the street food, and interacted with people. It's just a dynamic and interesting city, and you're selling yourself short if you don't spend time there." But where to begin? With so many wonderful things to do in Thailand's capital, we've spoken to experts to narrow down the list. Read on to discover the best things to do in Bangkok.

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

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In a city with no fewer than 400 temples, it can be a daunting task to try to determine which ones to visit. That said, if it's your first time in Bangkok, experts agree that there are a few temples to put at the very top of your list, the first being the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Regarded as the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand, you'll find it within the elaborate Grand Palace complex. Inside the shrine is a small, jade-colored Buddha draped in golden robes to enjoy from a good distance — no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the king of Thailand. While you’re there, spend some extra time exploring the other temples, shrines, and historic halls in the Grand Palace grounds.

Have a drink at a rooftop bar.

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The Bangkok skyline is known for its towering skyscrapers, and a good number of them have rooftop bars that range in style and budget. There are options for unfussy backpackers, then some that draw the poshest of travelers. We're partial to Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, Thailand's highest restaurant and the bar at King Power Mahanakhon. Located on the 76th and 77th floors of the building, both venues promise beautiful panoramic views of bustling Bangkok.

Climb Wat Arun.

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Another can't-miss temple is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn. The uniquely shaped temple rises above the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. In fact, the land on which Wat Arun sits has been home to a temple since at least the 1500s. It is known for its 82-meter-high tower, which has stairs that lead all the way to the top, where you'll find gorgeous views of the river and Bangkok. From a distance, Wat Arun appears to be gleaming white, but as you get closer you'll find that the structure is actually made of beautifully painted floral mosaics that have been constructed from Chinese porcelain.

Visit Warehouse 30.

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While Bangkok is steeped in centuries of history and art, it is also a thriving capital of contemporary and forward-thinking art and design. At Warehouse 30, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses that's been transformed into creative spaces for artists and designers, you'll discover cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.

View the Reclining Buddha.

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Yet another temple to add to your itinerary is Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This massive Buddha is covered from head to toe (all 46 meters) in gold leaf and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Wat Pho also boasts one of the largest collections of Buddha images; there are more than 1,000 of them throughout the sprawling temple complex.

Shop for flowers before dawn.

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Bangkok is one of the most colorful cities in the world, and nowhere is that more evident than at Pak Khlong Talat. In this vibrant flower market is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet and enveloping scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh blooms. Browse stalls full of marigolds, orchids, roses, and more. What's great about the flower market, particularly if you are battling jet lag and need a late-night activity, is that it is open 24 hours a day.

Sample some of the best street food in the world.

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Bangkok streets seem to sizzle at all times of day with some of the most coveted street food on the planet. No matter where you are in the city, you're never more than a few steps from savory, flavorful, and aromatic foods, most of which can be purchased for less than $2 per person. Start the day with a Thai iced coffee (strong coffee made extra sweet with condensed milk) and try snack after snack throughout the day, from pad Thai to braised duck and chicken rice.

"Bangkok's reputation as a top street food city means you must explore local food culture in hubs like Chinatown and Baan Tad Thong," says Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of communications for Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok . "Local dishes offer an authentic taste of everyday Thai life."

Lerdwittayaskul recommends Lim Lao Sa Noodle Stall in Chinatown, a hidden, family run stall offering noodles in a clear fish broth. She also points to Phee Mao Rad Na, a food cart by the canal next to Wat Ratchabophit. "The stir-fried noodles are cooked a la minute, and the two-minute walk to Wat Ratchabophit after a meal adds to the experience," she says.

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Beyond its bustling street food scene, Bangkok is home to roughly 30 Michelin-starred restaurants. One to note in particular is Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining restaurant at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. This haute, white-glove experience is set within the gorgeous dining room overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Be sure to book a table at the window so can watch the sunset and the colorful boats on the river while you dine on exquisite and artfully prepared French cuisine.

Take a cooking class.

Of course, it's fun to cook your own food, too. A Thai cooking class is one of the best things to do in the country overall, so why not give it a try in Bangkok? The city has dozens of cooking schools to choose from across a variety of budgets. Sompong Thai Cooking School is a top choice; each class begins with a trip to the local market to procure key ingredients before moving back to the kitchen to prepare flavorful Thai dishes.

Get a Thai massage.

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It's no secret that the spa and wellness services in Bangkok are second to none — you just have to choose your preferred vibe. Whether it's a luxury spa palace or a no-frills storefront down a narrow alley, Bangkok has the wellness market cornered. A Thai massage is a distinct and unique style of massage; it uses no oils or aromatherapy, and instead focuses on passive stretching, acupressure, and increasing the range of motion of your muscles. If you've never had a Thai massage, Bangkok is the perfect place to try one.

Cruise the Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok's main lifeline is the serpentine Chao Phraya River, and along its banks are some of the city's top luxury hotels, oldest neighborhoods, and biggest tourist attractions. A cruise down the Chao Phraya is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the iconic Bangkok skyline, and to catch a glimpse of daily local life. There are a many ways to get on the river, from evening dinner cruises to daytime sightseeing excursions. If you really want to travel like a local, though, ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat . The public water taxi stops at busy docks along the river and travels all the way up to the neighboring province of Nonthaburi.

Wander Chinatown.

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Bangkok's Chinatown is among the largest Chinatowns in the world, and walking through this sprawling neighborhood will have you feeling like you've stepped out of Thailand and onto the streets of Beijing. If you like street food, Bangkok's Chinatown is the place to be. Or come to marvel at the district's neon lights, dangling lanterns, and dozens of gold stores on the iconic Yaowarat Road.

"Visit the Chinese Shrine in Chinatown during the late afternoon to catch the evening chanting rituals by monks," says Lerdwittayaskul. "In the evening, the red lanterns in the shrine and candles are lit up. The experience is grounding and serene. After visiting the shrine, I love strolling through the backstreets, trying delicious Chinese dishes like noodles, stir-fried oyster pancakes, dumplings, and refreshing lotus root herbal juice."

Browse the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

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If you hear locals talking about the JJ Market, what they're referring to is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. And if you like bazaars and outdoor markets, this will be the one that will blow you away. It is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, boasting around 15,000 stalls selling knock-off electronics, clothing, souvenirs, local art, birds, and everything in between.

Cycle in the city.

For such a congested city, you'd be amazed at how many opportunities there are for getting outside. If you're looking for a bit of fresh air, give cycling a try. "One of the best places for a cycle is in Bangkrachao, an island in the Chao Phraya River — also known as the 'Green Lung' of Bangkok, thanks to its abundant green space," says Wanwisa Maneewatthana, chief culturist at Capella Bangkok . "Despite being a big city, Bangkok can offer great outdoor experiences to immerse [you] into both nature and culture. Visitors can enjoy cycling in an old neighborhood like Charoenkrung to discover remarkable and non-tourist cultural sights like local wet markets and neighborhood temples."

Visit the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre.

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After you've hit the main tourist sites, you may want to slip a little below the radar for a different look at Bangkok, and the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre offers just that. This public space promotes both local and international art and culture exhibits. If you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists, this is the top gallery in the city to visit.

Visit Jim Thompson House.

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If there's one Western name consistently tied to Bangkok, it's Jim Thompson. Thompson was the American businessman who brought Thai silks to the rest of the world in the mid-20th century. His canal-side home has been transformed into a museum showcasing his vast collection of art and antiques. The home is an architectural marvel, made of an amalgamation of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya. The lush gardens surrounding it are equally beautiful.

Celebrate a new year at the Songkran festival.

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If there is one festival to attend in Bangkok, it would be Songkran, or Thai New Year, which is held every year in April. This three-day event is when the city stops its usual business and transforms into one giant (and water-soaked) party. "The festival offers guests the chance to experience a fun-filled celebration that includes water fights on the street," says Maneewatthana. "Also, visitors can visit temples to participate in religious celebrations to bring them good luck in the coming year."

Shop at Siam Paragon.

If you're cruising down the Chao Phraya River, you can't miss one of the largest luxury malls in Asia, Siam Paragon. This is the ultimate stop in Bangkok for high-end labels, as well as a host of entertainment options, from restaurants and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium to a 16-screen movie theater and more than 250 shops. It's also the home base for the largest foreign-language bookshop in Bangkok, Kinokuniya. It's easy to get to Siam Paragon, as two BTS Skytrain lines intersect at the stop right in front of the mall.

Cruise the klongs in a longtail boat.

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Bangkok is known as the "Venice of the East," and for good reason — the city is quite literally webbed with miles of canals, or klongs. The oldest part of the city, known as Thonburi, sits west of the Chao Phraya River, and a visit to this corner of the city takes you back in time. There are wooden houses on stilts, plus lush greenery, small, colorful temples, and far more locals than tourists. "I try to have [all of my clients] spend some time on the klongs," says Grant Ekelund . "I like to do it because it's an interesting and unique way to experience the city from the water. Experience the neighborhoods, get a little bit out there, and get a sense for how people live in Bangkok."

Stroll in Lumpini Park.

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Another slice of green space in Bangkok is the 142-acre Lumpini Park, also known as the "Central Park of Bangkok." Set right in the heart of the city, the park includes a man-made lake strewn with swan paddle boats, and it's a popular spot for trail walking, picnics, Tai Chi, live music, and more. 

Explore Charoenkrung Road.

Bangkok is a city of many personalities, but if it's old-school charm you're looking for, head to another of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Charoenkrung Road. Home to the very first paved road in Bangkok, Charoenkrung is slowly disappearing as luxury hotels continue to open. But visitors can still experience myriad cultural activities here, from street food and hidden temples to an emerging art district.

Take a day trip to Ayutthaya.

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About an hour from Bangkok by train, Ayutthaya is the perfect day trip from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya gives visitors a glimpse of the ancient days of Thailand. The preserved kingdom capital is home to gorgeous palaces and temples that date back as far as the 14th century. Visitors can wander around the temple ruins for a unique look at how this part of the world used to be. "A day trip here offers a deep dive into Thai history and culture," says Lerdwittayaskul. "You can explore numerous historical sites and temples, where the civilization, traditions, and beliefs of ancient people come alive." "Ayutthaya gets more into the history of Thailand," added Ekelund. "It's so cool, especially if you are not going to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat and want to see that style of architecture."

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28 Top Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

With a population of over 9 million inhabitants, Bangkok is one of the biggest cities in the world. Its heavy traffic congestion, intense heat and naughty nightlife do not immediately give visitors a warm welcome. But first impressions can be misleading. It is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities with magnificent temples and palaces, a vibrant nightlife and great shopping, that has something for every traveler.

Ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern marvels, creating an unforgettable tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors. This bustling metropolis, often called the ‘City of Angels’, is Thailand’s captivating capital and a gateway to Southeast Asia’s rich cultural heritage.

Adorned with lavish temples, Bangkok is a city where ancient wonders like Grand Palace and Wat Arun reside adjacent to towering skyscrapers and bustling markets. It is also a city where the tantalizing aroma of street food wafts through the air as you explore lively alleys such as Chinatown and the floating markets.

Beyond these tourist attractions, there are many different experiences and things to do in Bangkok, from tranquil river cruises along the Chao Phraya River to luxurious spa retreats and lively nightlife. Why not embrace the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in the captivating mix of tradition and modernity that make Bangkok a special place to visit?

Due to the city’s congested traffic, the best transport options around Bangkok are the Skytrain, the metro and tuk-tuks. A memorable way to experience Bangkok is by a boat ride on the canals.

28. Yaowarat Road

Located in Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown, Yaowarat Road should be one of the first places you should visit.

The historic district encompasses a bustling stretch of colorful streets and is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and delectable culinary delights.

As you wander through Yaowarat Road, you’ll be able to marvel at the intricate Chinese architecture adorned with ornate dragon sculptures. You can also shop for traditional herbs, spices, and unique souvenirs at the bustling market stalls.

Congruently, indulge your taste buds with an array of mouthwatering street food, from steaming bowls of noodle soup to succulent barbecued meats and tantalizing desserts.

Try also to visit it at night when the neon lights illuminate the streets, creating a captivating atmosphere that captures the vibrant spirit of the community.

27. Erawan Shrine

Nestled amidst the frenetic streets of Bangkok, the Erawan Shrine is a revered cultural landmark.

It is a beautiful shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Brahma that draws visitors worldwide seeking blessings, solace, and a glimpse into Thailand’s spiritual fabric.

Adorned with intricate carvings and colorful decorations, the Erawan Shrine exudes an air of tranquility and reverence. Whilst there, you can witness the captivating sight of devotees offering prayers, lighting incense, and making traditional flower garland offerings. At the same time, delight in the enchanting melodies of Thai classical music and graceful traditional dances performed throughout the day.

The shrine is easy to access, located centrally in the city. However, it is always busy, so it’s worth getting to it early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

26. Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC)

If you love art, visiting the Bangkok Art and Culture Center is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Situated in the Pathum Wan district of the city, it is a dynamic center of creativity that showcases the city’s contemporary art scene.

It occupies several levels of exhibition space and accommodates various galleries, which feature diverse art forms, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works by local and international artists.

Established in 2008, it also incorporates displays, workshops, talks, and performances relating to music, theater, film, and design. Additionally, it houses a library, cafes, and shops where you can browse unique art-related merchandise.

Overall, the center is worth visiting as it offers an enriching insight into Bangkok and Thailand’s fascinating artistic landscape.

25. MBK Center

The MBK Center, also called Mahboonkrong, is a shopaholic’s paradise.

Sprawling across eight floors packed with over 2,000 shops, this iconic shopping complex offers an extensive range of products. They include everything from high fashion and cutting-edge electronics to ornate jewellery and intricate handicrafts.

The center is open every day of the week from 10 am until 10 pm. It is just as well because you could easily spend a day here discovering its treasure trove of bargains, trendy fashion items, and the latest gadgets.

As well as a total shopping destination, the center is a prominent place for foodies. Within it is an expansive food court of restaurants offering a vast array of Thai and international dishes, as good as anything you can get in Bangkok.

24. Wat Saket

Perched atop the Golden Mount, Wat Saket offers a serene escape.

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, ascending the 318 steps to its summit rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

With its gleaming golden chedi (stupa), this sacred temple holds great significance for locals and pilgrims. During your visit, you should explore the temple grounds and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of beautiful statues, lush greenery, and intricate Buddhist artwork.

You may also want to ring the temple’s giant bell, a traditional act believed to bring good fortune. Should you be visiting Bangkok in November, be sure to check out the annual temple fair. It is a high-spirited celebration featuring markets, food stalls, and cultural performances you are sure to enjoy.

23. Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is a terrific place to visit to learn more about Thailand’s history, art, and culture.

You’ll find it in a former palace, once owned by the vice king, that faces the Sanam Luang and lies between National Theater and Thammasat University.

Providing insight into the country’s past, it has an extensive collection showcasing various artefacts. They include ancient sculptures, intricate royal regalia, exquisite paintings, and centuries-old ceramics.

Highlights include the stunning King Rama IV throne hall and the exquisite exhibits from the Ayutthaya period, which captivate with their intricate details.

The best way to experience the museum is to go on a guided tour, as your knowledgeable guide will relate some fascinating backstories about individual exhibits.

22. Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a contemporary waterfront destination in Bang Kho Laem that seamlessly blends shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this open-air complex is a terrific place to spend a day. You can stroll along its promenade and browse in the boutique fashion, handicrafts, and souvenir shops. At the same time, you can enjoy cultural performances, live music, and theatrical shows on the outdoor stage.

There are also plenty of food stalls, eateries, and restaurants you can visit offering an excellent range of Thai and international dishes. When night falls, you should ride the iconic Ferris wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city’s illuminated skyline. Just be sure to take your camera with you!

21. Chao Phraya River Cruise

Embarking on a Chao Phraya River Cruise is a captivating way to explore the city’s enchanting waterways and iconic landmarks.

By stepping aboard a luxurious boat, you can sail along the majestic river, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of Bangkok’s skyline.

Along the way, you will glide past historic temples, such as Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, with their golden spires shimmering in the sunlight. You’ll also be able to marvel at the grandeur of the Royal Grand Palace and observe the bustling river life unfold before you.

To elevate the experience, you can choose to indulge in a delectable dinner buffet or enjoy a romantic sunset cocktail. But regardless of whether you choose a daytime excursion or an enchanting evening cruise, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

20. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Another must-visit cultural attraction for art lovers is MOCA – The Museum of Contemporary Art. Housed within a striking white building which in itself is a work of art, the gallery takes you on a captivating journey through the evolution of Thai art.

Its impressive collection of modern and contemporary displays spans several levels and galleries. They are filled with thought-provoking paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia exhibits by renowned Thai artists.

From traditional Thai motifs to cutting-edge experimental pieces, the collection represents the diverse artistic expressions of the country. You’ll need the best part of the day to visit the museum, especially if you want to attend artist talks.

It also runs workshops, enabling you to delve deeper into the artistry and concepts behind the exhibits.

19. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the traditional Thai way of life is to visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

This iconic market is about 100 km from the city, encapsulating the charm and spirit of Thailand’s cultural heritage. It comprises a vibrant maze of wooden boats that float along narrow canals, brimming with colorful fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts.

While the market is officially open until 4 pm, the best time to visit is around 7 am. To do so, you must take a memorable long-tail boat ride through the bustling waterways, observing the hustle and bustle of the market from a unique perspective.

If you do, you can sample delicious local snacks, like fresh coconut pancakes and tropical fruits, while bartering with effervescent vendors.

18. Visit a Rooftop Bar

Ascend to the uppermost levels of towering skyscrapers and indulge in breathtaking panoramic views while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. Each venue offers a unique ambiance and atmosphere, from the iconic Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower to the trendy Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar. At them, you can watch the sunset or the city’s glittering lights as you unwind in stylish surroundings and enjoy live music or DJ sets.

Many rooftop bars also offer exceptional food experiences, including Thai and fusion cuisine. So, whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a lively night out, Bangkok’s rooftop bars will not disappoint.

17. Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Between 1350 and 1767, Ayutthaya was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Siam. So it is worth taking a day trip from Bangkok to see its rich history and architectural wonders.

About 80 km from the city, Ayutthaya is a sprawling ruin of Buddhist temples, palaces, statues, and monasteries, showcasing the once-thriving kingdom’s grandeur. Its main highlight is the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat. Additionally, the intricate carvings of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol are also noteworthy.

Because the site is so big, renting a bicycle is a good idea as this will make it easier to traverse it. The archaeological site is also on an island which lies between 3 rivers. Therefore, a boat ride along them is another good way to explore.

16. Queen Saovabha Institute Snake Farm

If you do not like reptiles, give the Queen Saovabha Institute Snake Farm a miss. However, if you are okay with Serpentes, this is one of the most intriguing tourist attractions in.Bangkok on offer.

Housed within the premises of the Thai Red Cross Society, this fascinating institution is dedicated to research, conservation, and public education about snakes.

Whilst there, you can explore the farm’s facilities and witness captivating live snake handling demonstrations by experienced handlers.

You can also learn about various species and their behavior, including cobras, vipers, and pythons while understanding their importance in multiple ecosystems.

Additionally, you can gain insight into venom extraction and the production of life-saving antivenom. The Snake Farm also provides a valuable resource for snakebite victims, offering medical treatments and support.

15. Wat Suthat

Bangkok has its fair share of temples, and it’s possible to get ‘templed-out’. But one you should make a point of visiting is Wat Suthat.

One of the most revered temples in the city, it is located in the Old City and boasts a striking red façade and exquisite architectural details.

The magnificent Buddhist temple features stunning wall murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures. It also has massive red and gold teakwood doors, intricately carved with mythological figures.

The centerpiece of Wat Suthat is the towering Giant Swing, a symbol of Hindu influence in Thai culture. The swing, constructed towards the back end of the 18th century, is 20 meters high and was used regularly in Brahmanic ceremonies.

14. Lumpinee Boxing Stadium

If you are a fan of Muay Thai, you’ll want to visit the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium. It is the national sport of Thailand, which locals passionately follow.

This iconic venue is located in the city’s Pathum Wan district and is excellent for watching combat sports. It presents world-class Muay Thai fights showcasing the participants’ athleticism, speed, skill, and cultural significance.

Fighters compete over five rounds of 2-minute durations. Overall there are about around 20 separate fights on any card.

The stadium has a capacity of 9500, and as you witness these intense contests, the energy in the air is incredible. Its aura, with roaring crowds and traditional music, offers an adrenaline-pumping immersion into the heart and soul of this captivating contact sport.

13. Terminal 21

If you still want to shop after visiting MBK, you should head to Terminal 21.

What sets this destination apart from other malls is the concept and attention to detail of its design. Not so much a shopping mall but a unique and captivating retail experience, it transports visitors to different global destinations.

Featuring a design that resembles an airport, each floor represents a different city replete with iconic landmarks and themed decor. So, you can shop in London, Tokyo, Istanbul, or several other iconic cities.

The various shops and boutiques offer a wide range of fashion, accessories, electronics, art, and kitchenware. You can also enjoy dining at a fantastic international food court, where each section reflects the culinary delights of a specific country.

12. Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon is yet another of Bangkok’s premier shopping and lifestyle destinations.

One of the largest malls in Thailand, it offers a wide range of high-end fashion brands, luxury boutiques, and international designer labels. Thus making it a paradise for fashion enthusiasts.

As you explore the multi-level complex, you will discover an impressive selection of cosmetics, electronics, home furnishings, and gourmet delicacies. You will even see car showrooms showcasing an exclusive range of fancy sports cars.

In addition, Siam Paragon houses a magnificent cinema, an art gallery, and a diverse range of dining options. They range from upscale fine dining restaurants to hip and trendy cafes.

It also boasts opulent architecture and stunning displays that exude sophistication and style, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

11. Wat Prakeaw

Visiting Wat Phra Kaew – often referred to as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha -is an awe-inspiring experience.

Situated within the grounds of the Grand Palace, this sacred temple is home to the revered Emerald Buddha, a small statue carved from a single block of jade.

During your time there, you can admire the intricate details of the temple’s architecture, resplendent with colorful mosaic tiles, golden spires, and ornate carvings. You can also explore the various pavilions and halls that house exquisite Buddhist artifacts and stunning murals depicting mythological scenes.

As one of Thailand’s most important religious sites, Wat Phra Kaew offers a unique glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage and cultural significance. It also has a serene atmosphere that invites contemplation and reverence as you explore it.

10. Dusit Palace

Located in the Dusit district of Bangkok, Dusit Palace is a sprawling palace complex that presents the elegance and splendor of Thai royalty.

The fascinating complex features serene gardens with manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and tranquil ponds, perfect for strolling through.

It encompasses several magnificent buildings, including the Vimanmek Mansion, the largest teakwood building in the world.

Resplendent with a hexagonal roof, the mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of King Rama V. Its lavishly decorated rooms are filled with royal artifacts, intricate woodwork, and beautiful handicrafts.

Elsewhere, the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, with its white marble façade, is another remarkable sight. You can discover the palace’s rich history and cultural significance through fascinating guided tours and informative exhibits.

9. Wat Traimit

Whilst in Thailand, you will notice a lot of Buddhas. One of the largest of them resides at Wat Traimit in the Chinatown area.

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, it is famous for housing a solid gold Buddha statue weighing a staggering five and a half tons!

Even though it is nearly five meters tall, the gleaming golden Buddha statue was out of sight for many years. The figure was covered with colored glass and a stucco layer and was only discovered by chance when a plaster exterior cracked, revealing its true splendor.

Today visitors can admire its intricate craftsmanship and serene expression, symbolizing prosperity and spiritual significance. You can also explore the temple complex, adorned with elegant decorations and traditional architecture.

8. Chatuchak Weekend Market

You can’t visit Bangkok and not go to the Chatuchak Weekend Market!

A sprawling shopper’s paradise, the iconic market features over 8,000 stalls offering an endless assortment of goods.

You’ll find it all here, from clothing and accessories to handicrafts, home decor, plants, and antiques, and bartering is expected. Prices are relatively inexpensive, so try to exercise some self-control!

Navigating the market’s labyrinthine lanes, you’ll immerse yourself in a sensory feast of colors, scents, and sounds. You can also indulge in delectable street food from the various regions of Thailand as you explore.

The market’s lively atmosphere, bustling crowds, and bargaining opportunities create a unique and energetic ambiance. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it is worth coming here to experience the vibe.

7. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is a legendary street renowned for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

A haven for backpackers and travelers, it offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and excitement.

Whilst there, stroll along the bustling street lined with shops, market stalls, and street food vendors offering a wide range of local delicacies and souvenirs.

You should also take the opportunity to explore its vibrant nightlife. Its array of bars, clubs, and live music venues creates an electric atmosphere where you can party well into the early hours. Khao San Road is also a hub for budget accommodations, making it a popular choice for those seeking affordable lodgings.

The real attraction of Khao San Road, though, is its energetic spirit. So make sure you embrace it as you traverse its buzzing street scene.

6. Jim Thompson’s House

Jim Thompson’s House in Bangkok is a captivating museum. It pays homage to the life and legacy of Jim Thompson, a visionary American entrepreneur who revitalized the Thai silk industry.

This charming complex showcases traditional Thai architecture and houses an impressive collection of Southeast Asian art and artifacts.

The museum also offers insights into Thai culture, history, and art through guided tours. During your visit, you can explore the beautifully preserved teakwood house, surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil ponds.

You should also pay particular attention to the exquisite craftsmanship, intricate woodwork, and stunning antiques that define the interiors.

Additionally, take the opportunity to learn about Jim Thompson’s contributions to the silk industry and his mysterious disappearance – a still unsolved case.

5. Lumphini Park

Bangkok is a high-octane city, so you’ll want a change of place at some point during your trip there.

At this time, a trip to Lumphini Park is a good idea. This expansive green space is situated in the heart of the city and offers a welcome retreat from the urban chaos.

Whilst there, you can stroll along the tree-lined pathways, surrounded by lush greenery, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The park features a large lake where visitors can rent paddleboats and leisurely explore the serene waters.

It’s also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, yoga, and tai chi. The park isn’t short of fauna either – monitor lizards roam, adding a touch of wildlife to the surroundings.

4. Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Referenced in the song ‘One Night In Bangkok’ by Murray Head, The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a renowned Buddhist temple in Bangkok.

Locally known as Wat Pho, it houses one of the world’s most significant and impressive reclining Buddha statues, measuring an astounding 46 meters long.

The golden statue is the main attraction, featuring intricate details and a serene expression. However, the temple complex also has beautiful architecture, colorful tiles, ornate spires, and elaborate murals depicting Buddhist stories that are also captivating.

Wat Pho is also famous for being Thailand’s first public university and it remains a center for traditional Thai medicine and massage. For this reason, you might want to indulge in a traditional Thai massage at the school within the temple grounds.

3. CentralWorld

If you still fancy a bit more shopping, a trip to CentralWorld is worth considering.

Another massive shopping and lifestyle destination, it features over 500 shops and boutiques, including most of the world’s most renowned international brands.

It’s more than just the big boys represented, though, as many local designers also run outlets in the mall.

A one-stop destination for all your shopping needs, everything from fashion and electronics to home decor and jewellery, is available here.

As you would expect, several exceptional dining options are also onsite, ranging from traditional street food to elevated international cuisine.

Additionally, CentralWorld hosts a regular program of exciting events, exhibitions, and entertainment at any given time, making it a vibrant entertainment destination too.

2. Wat Arun

Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s premier tourist attractions.

A Buddhist temple in the Bangkok Yai district, the striking landmark resides on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

It is also known as the Temple of Dawn and accommodates a design of porcelain tiles and delicate seashells, reflecting sunlight and creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. When the sun starts to set, the temple illuminates brilliantly against the darkening sky.

Impressively, it was designed specifically for this to happen. It is named after Aruna, the Hindu god often depicted as the rising sun’s radiations.

When you visit Wat Arun, try to ascend the steep steps of the central prang. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the river and the surrounding area.

1. Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is probably the most famous of Bangkok’s tourist sites and attractions.

The construction of the Grand Palace started in 1782 when the capital of Siam was moved from Thonburi to Bangkok. The palace served as the residence of the Kings of Thailand until the mysterious death of King Ananda Mahidol in 1946. His brother King Bhumibol Adulyadej who succeeded him moved permanently to the Chitralada Palace.

This sprawling complex showcases a blend of Thai, European, and other Asian architectural styles. It has served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since the 18th century.

The Grand Palace offers a glimpse into Thailand’s royal history with its intricate murals, stunning throne halls, and magnificent gardens.

There are several buildings to explore, with features like golden spires and elegant, intricate detailing.

One area you should spend some time appreciating is the Emerald Buddha. Sitting within the Wat Phra Kaew temple, it is made from a solid piece of beautiful green jade, clothed in gold and diamonds, and has a real ‘WOW’ factor.

Map of Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

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April 12, 2014 at 10:16 pm

I am in Bangkok now! I have read your post! It’s very helpful and full of details! I have been to some places already! And going to the rest of your list! Thanks

March 24, 2014 at 4:23 am

Wow what a nice city bangkok. I love very much.

September 7, 2013 at 2:09 am

Bangkok is really a nice city with all kind of tourist attractions. I have been to Bangkok many times before and I am feeling so happy after reading your post because you have written much informative content about major tourist attractions in Bangkok. You just remind my memories of trip to Bangkok. Thanks for the post.

January 11, 2013 at 4:54 pm

it is really beautiful

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

The capital city of Thailand and maybe the traffic jam capital of the planet, Bangkok is a fascinating, exciting and incredible city to visit. Like many other capital cities Bangkok never goes to sleep, there is always a hive of activity as people work around the clock in their various professions.

With eight million inhabitants living within the city you will find yourself encountering every walk of life, from the super poor to the mega rich they all congregate in the one city and each feels at home as the other.

Let’s have a look at the top things to do and see in Bangkok :

1. Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha

A visit to Wat Pho is a must for any traveler to Bangkok, it is the home to the Reclining Buddha which stands at fifteen metres tall and forty six metres long, the feet alone are measured at over five meters. The whole statue is covered in gold leaf and looks incredible when you get up close.

Inside the temple there are 108 bowls and on the way in to the temple you can buy coins for the bowls. The history behind this is that Buddha completed 108 positive actions on his way to becoming perfect. Whilst you are at the temple you can also stop for a while to receive a traditional Thai Massage

Recommended tour : Damnoen Saduak, Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun Private Tour

2. Visit the Grand Palace

Of all the places to visit in Bangkok the Grand Palace is the most famous attraction there is. You simply cannot move onto another city until you have taken the time to visit here.

The palace at one time was the king’s home as well as the place where the government of Thailand carried out their work. A trip to the palace can take many hours as there are over 214,000 sq. meters to cover. Be aware of potential scams when outside the palace and only pay the entrance fee when you are actually going in.

Great walking tour available : Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun

3. Ride the Sky Train

There is only one way to get around Bangkok at any speed whilst keeping cool and that is to jump aboard one of the sky trains. With air conditioned carriages there is no better way to get around.

In most instances you are high above the traffic below giving you a view of the city but also the train takes the most direct route. With nearly every part of Bangkok you would want to visit having a train station, travel could not be simpler.

4. Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.

If you like shopping you need to check this place out. If you hate shopping you need to give this place a wide berth. With over 8000 stalls covering 27 acres of space this is one of the largest markets in the world.

Open every Saturday and Sunday it attracts nearly 200,000 visitors a day, you will find everything you could ever imagine for sale here and mostly at local prices rather than tourist prices, it is certainly worth picking up a map before you go to avoid you being lost in the market for hours.

5. Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River

Some people refer to Bangkok as the ‘Venice of the East’ this is due to the Chai Phraya River flowing through Bangkok and all of the little canals that feed off of it. The river is the lifeblood of Bangkok, even today 50,000 people still go to work on one of the many ferries that go up and down.

Taking a boat trip down the river is fascinating as you will see high rise condominiums and fancy hotels in one part whilst you will see wooden shacks and children playing in the water in other parts. Feel free to get on and off at any of the stops the ferries make to further explore the city.

Related tour : Tuk Tuk & Tourist Boat on Chao Phraya River

6. Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon

The high end shopper’s paradise, a hugely popular shopping mall that houses many different shops for high-end fashion designers, Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, a huge multiplex cinema and enough restaurants to feed you for a life time.

There are over 250 shops inside the mall, most of which are frequented by the well-heeled Thai’s and foreigners. Various car manufacturers including Ferrari and Lamborghini also have showrooms within the complex so if you have deep pockets you are sure to find what you are looking for.

7. Visit The Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is home to the largest collection of artifacts and Thai art in all of Thailand. The museum was first opened by King Rama V to show off all the gifts that his father had given to him.

There are many interesting things to see in the museum such as Chinese weapons, precious stones, puppets, clothing and textiles and Khon masks. If you go to the museum on a Thursday you can be given a tour in English to give you a greater understanding of everything in the museum.

8. Have a Thai Massage

Whatever country you come from you almost certainly would have heard of Thai massages and maybe even have seen a Thai massage parlour in your local village. But nowhere can you experience a traditional Thai massage done as well as you would in the country where it originated.

The experience of a Thai massage will give you a new lease of life whilst making you feel invigorated as well as balanced. There are parlous absolutely everywhere so it is worth doing your research to find a good one near your hotel.

9. Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)

Situated just outside the BTS station called Nana is a place called Nana Plaza, many people think that Nana Plaza is the largest sex complex in the world today.

Here you will find many gogo bars full of Thai women looking to pleasure you for the evening in return for a fee. Even if you have no intention of participating in any of the girls offers it is worth spending some time sitting down with a drink and watching the people go by.

10. Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower

Before the financial crisis hit the world a few years ago a huge 49 story skyscraper was being built in the heart of Bangkok, but when the crisis hit the building work stopped and the tower was never completed. Now it sits there abandoned, far too big for anyone to do anything with.

Some sites recommend climbing the tower, but this is dangerous and not allowed. A few years ago some bloggers/vloggers had criminal charges filed against them for posting material online showing them climbing the tower.

11. Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park

At over 500,000 sq. meters Lumpini Park providers the people of Bangkok with a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The name of the park originated from the Lord Buddha who was born in Nepal.

It is not unusual when you walk through the park to see the older Thai generation practicing their Thai Chi or a romantic couple relaxing by the side of the lake. At the weekends the park is full of people taking part in all sorts of activities so a great time to go is early morning or just before sunset.

Related tour : City Culture 3-Hour Bike Tour

12. Eat Out At Chinatown

Every major city has its own Chinatown and Bangkok is no exception to this, you know you have arrived when you walk through the ceremonial Chinese gates and into Chinatown itself.

Packed full of street stalls and restaurants the choice of places to eat will be endless, nowhere else in Bangkok will you get to try as many different kinds of Chinese food as you can here, especially at such good prices. If it is gold you are on the lookout for it is said that this is also the best place in Bangkok to look.

Suggested tour : Bangkok Chinatown Food Tour

13. Go For A Drink On Top Of The City

There are various places in Bangkok where you can go for a drink at the end of the day but none will have the view of Bangkok that the Vertigo and Moon bar or the Lebua Rooftop bar has. Sitting on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree hotel you can look out and see the beautiful skyline of Bangkok in all of its glory.

As soon as you reach the top you are straight outside so this is not the place to be if you are afraid of heights, the designers have made the rooftop in such a way that you get a complete 360 degree view of the city with no obstructions.

Book online: Lebua Rooftop Bar Reservation & Round-Trip Transfer

14. Eat Street Food

With Thai people choosing to eat almost every meal out instead of cooking at home the popularity of street food has never been stronger. Every busy road will have street food vendors selling their products to the locals and tourists alike, the prices are low because this is where the Thais choose to eat their meals as well.

You have probably heard of Pad Thai but there is so much more to street food that this one dish. You will get stalls selling all sorts of foods from Som Tam (papaya salad) to Squid, all cooked in front of you ready for consumption straight away.

There are also some amazing food tours available.

 15. Take a Motorcycle Taxi

With the roads of Bangkok being as congested as they are, getting from one place to another can often seem like a daunting task. For most places you can get a sky train but for those that you cannot it is a good option to take a motorcycle taxi, unlike a traditional taxi or a tuk-tuk these guys will take you on the back of their motorcycle to anywhere you want to go.

There is no measuring how far the journey is so once you have paid your fair the driver will want to be there in a rush. Sit back and relax as your driver weaves through the traffic to get you to your location.

16. Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)

The whole of Thailand is full of kickboxing stadiums but the biggest fights happen in Bangkok, normally at either the Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen stadiums. Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and it is talked about everywhere. The viewing figures on TV are some of the highest for any show that is aired.

An evening spent at the stadium is sure to be action packed as the locals get so immersed in the fights that the atmosphere reaches fever pitch. There is usually somebody walking around taking bets as well if that is of interest to you.

Book online : Muay Thai Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium – VIP Entrance Ticket

17. Visit Dusit Zoo

Dusit Zoo is the oldest zoo in Thailand and has been open for over 60 years.

There is a large range of animals inside the zoo (approximately 1600) including monkeys, alligators, lions, tigers, penguins and kangaroos.

The zoo is very much a working zoo and has an animal hospital which looks after all of the inhabitants of the zoo as well as an education center, museum and train.

18. Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran

Celebrated each year between the 13th and 15th of April Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival and nobody is safe from getting wet. In the Buddhist religion it is believed that by sprinkling water your sins and bad luck will be washed away.

Today the sprinkling of water has turned into a full on water fight that the whole country gets involved in. with the huge crowds of Bangkok there is no better place to experience this festival as the city becomes one big party.

19. Explore the Bangkok Nightlife

Bangkok is famous for it’s nightlife scene and grown pretty big over the years.

There’s exciting nightclubs, amazing rooftop bars, hip cocktail bars and much more. There’s the adult themed Soi Cowboy and Patpong, the party scene at Khao San Road and lot’s of clubs to dance the night away. Want to party with like-minded travelers? Then check out this bar crawl tour .

20. Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show

An absolute must for all tourists to Bangkok, in most puppet shows the puppeteers are hidden from view but not in this show.

The puppeteers are part of the show and it takes three people to control each puppet. The puppets tell out a classic folk tale whilst a live orchestra plays music to add to the atmosphere.

The set design and craftsmanship that goes into making the props is magnificent as is the technique of the artists as well.

21. Visit Jim Thompson House

Thai silk is famous the world over and nowhere will you find a better place to learn about the history behind this craft. As you walk around the house you will not only learn the history of The Thai Silk Company but also the fascinating history of Jim Thompson himself. The house itself is more of a complex with six traditional teak structures forming the complete dwelling.

Consider the Jim Thompson House and Baan Krua Community Tour to save a buck.

22. Visit Wat Arun

There are more than 31,000 Buddhist temples spread out across Thailand and this one is one that you really want to see.

The temple is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River is this beautiful temple that stands at 79 metres tall.

The tower is covered in ceramic tiles and coloured porcelain making for an incredible sight when you catch it in the right light. The temple itself is guarded by a pair of mythical giants that keep watch over the temple grounds.

Suggested tour:  4-Hour Night Bike Tour with Wat Arun & Wat Pho

23. Feast Yourself On Durian

You will probably smell it before you see it but Durian is known as the king of fruits. People either love it or hate it with some public areas going as far as putting up signs that completely ban it.

A durian fruit is distinct for many reasons, firstly its look, it looks like some kind of medieval weapon with its thorny outer shell, and once the shell has been removed the insides are like this creamy buttery texture that some people say is the greatest fruit of all.

24. Visit Erawan Shrine

Situated in one of the busiest areas of Bangkok is Erawan Shrine, It is a Brahman shrine and attracts so many visitors that it is more popular than many of the temples.

Constructed in the 1950’s the shrine was made because the construction workers on the nearby hotel were too superstitious to continue their work as they felt the land spirits were unhappy and causing problems on the construction site.

The shrine itself is a four faced brahma god and people flock there and lay floral garlands in the hope their wishes will come true..

25. Visit Vimanmek Mansion

Vimanmek Mansion is the world’s largest teak wood building. Formally a royal residence it was only used for a few years before being left empty for many decades.

The mansion itself is now a museum that is home to many ancient artifacts and even some photographs that have been donated by His Majesty the King.

When you are in the grounds of the buildings you may take as many photographs as you wish but you will not be allowed to take your camera inside the museum itself and a strict dress code is in force so ensure you dress modestly.

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand):

• Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Ride the Sky Train
• Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.
• Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River
• Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon
• Visit The Bangkok National Museum
• Have a Thai Massage
• Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)
• Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower
• Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park
• Eat Out At Chinatown
• Go For A Drink On Top Of The City
• Eat Street Food
• Take a Motorcycle Taxi
• Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)
• Visit Dusit Zoo
• Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran
• Explore the Bangkok Nightlife
• Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show
• Visit Jim Thompson House
• Visit Wat Arun
• Feast Yourself On Durian
• Visit Erawan Shrine
• Visit Vimanmek Mansion

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26 best things to do in Bangkok right now

Looking for ideas to make the most of the world's most visited city? Here's where to start.

Discover the city with our list of the best things to do and see in Bangkok, for visitors and locals alike. From restaurants you can't miss to rooftop decks you gotta check out, this is your ultimate Bangkok checklist.

RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Bangkok this weekend

The best things to do in Bangkok

Take in the city skyline at Mahanakhon SkyWalk

What is it? Thailand’s highest 360-degree observation deck, sitting 314 meters above the ground.

Why go? This observation triplex, housed in the King Power Mahanakhon building, includes an air-conditioned deck on the 74th and 75th floor, and the highest bar in Bangkok and a glass tray on the 78th.

Don’t miss: Walk on that glass tray floor to give yourself a heart-pumping thrill and see Bangkok beneath your feet.  

Blow your shopping budget at Chatuchak Market

What is it? The ultimate outdoor weekend market that both locals and tourists flock to.

Why go? Spanning over 8,000 stalls, Chatuchak has just about everything, including food products, plants, jewelry, vintage finds, homeware, souvenirs, as well as niche local brands that test the grounds here before growing big.

Don’t miss: Dirt-cheap but delicious street snacks like green soda popsicles and fried quail eggs .

Feast on scrumptious comfort food on Ban Tad Thong Road

• Street food
• price 1 of 4

What is it? Originally lined with auto parts shophouses and sportswear stores, Ban Tad Thong has been transformed into a happening spot for late-night casual dining, with over 50 restaurants and vendors lining up both sides of the street.

Why go? Cheap eats and a wide range of choices, from modern comfort fare to traditional dishes by popular street food restaurants that were relocated from neighboring areas. You also get proper seating, a clean and hygienic setting, and space for parking. And it’s not as crowded nor as touristy as other street food destinations in Bangkok (we mean Yaowarat). 

Don’t miss: There’s a lot to explore here , but we recommend the Hainan chicken rice at Jeh Bow and the spicy water mimosa salad at Jeh Sri . For some post-meal sweets, you have ice cream in unique flavors at Tuay Tung or cold longan juice with beans at Jeh Wan .

Enjoy open space in the heart of the city at Benjakitti Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens
• Khlong Toei

What is it? A 480,000-square-meter public park and green space (almost as big as London’s Hyde Park) in Khlong Toei, right in the center of Bangkok. 

Why go? Benjakitti Park (or Benchakitti), which first opened in 1994, underwent massive renovations from 2016 to 2021. Its expansion and renovation came with new outdoor facilities such as organized bike lanes and running tracks, a sports center, and, most importantly, dog-friendly zones .

Don’t miss: Now that Benjakitti Park has been improved, it has become a favorite venue for community activities—from live music concerts to various pursuits by hobby clubs—that you can join. Try to come at sunset when bright lights are turned on to illuminate the park’s elevated walkway. It’s a scene that you might want to capture for your Instagram!

Take in million dollar views atop State Tower

• Charoenkrung

What is it? Situated on Charoenkrung, it is home to world-class establishments such as five-star hotel Lebua, two-Michelin-starred restaurant Mezzaluna , and stylish rooftop bar Sirocco .

Why go? State Tower’s 63rd floor is reserved for Sirocco, which offers stunning acrophobia-challenging views made popular by the  movie The Hangover Part II . You can also opt to have an unforgettable dinner with your boo at Mezzaluna on the 65th floor or sip champagne at Pink Bar, named for its floor that’s completely illuminated in a rosy hue.

Don’t miss: Sirocco is the only spot in Bangkok where you can take in views of Bangkok on both sides of the Chao Phraya River. And it has a famous staircase leading down to the bar where you can walk down like an A-list celeb.

Own the night at Khaosan Road

What is it? Bangkok’s primary destination for backpackers and fun-loving night owls craving a wild, carefree evening at rough-around-the-edges clubs and bars.

Why go? Why not? Khaosan Road is hands-down Bangkok’s most notoriously fun hotspot, where youthful locals and foreign hedonists come together for one of those nights in a less-than-fashionable nightclub over a bucket full of who-knows-what booze.

Don’t miss: Khaosan Road has actually cleaned up post-COVID. There are several new kids in the hood, namely Mischa Cheap , where all genres of music are celebrated in a cheeky way, as well as themed cocktail bars Bar Darn and Tropical Garden .

Feast on fancy Thai food at Michelin-starred restaurants

What is it?   Sixteen Thai restaurants were awarded a Michelin star(s), including   Le Du ,   Sorn , and   Methavalai Sorndaeng . 

Why go?   Underrated hidden gems and up-and-coming chefs are getting the acclaim they deserve. Old-school seafood haunts and sophisticated venues dedicated to Southern fare have also made the list.

Don’t miss:   Street food culinary champ   Jay Fai   still dazzle.

Cap the night off with rum-based tipples at Tropic City

What is it? A tropical-themed watering hole on Soi Charoenkrung 28 by Sebastian de la Cruz and co, with a menu of fun cocktails mixed by Arron Grendon .

Why go? It was named the world’s 24th best and Asia’s 17th best bar. Need we say more? And it hosts entertaining events throughout the week like rum tasting and guest DJ sets.

Don’t miss: The neon-lit bar is proud of its creative, rum-heavy creations such as Night Rider (B390), a rum-based drink with fizzy ginger beer and a hint of tamarind.

Dance til you (dead)drop at Silom Soi 2

What is it? A vibrant gay paradise lined with LGBTQ-friendly venues that spur you to shantay until the sun says “hyeeeee!”

Why go? There are four things you can get from a night out in Silom Soi 2: bombastic fun, trashy EDM music, cheap drinks, and a cruising-like experience (if you know what we mean). Also, you are guaranteed a good time by way of campy Thai-style entertainment served up by drag queens and skimpily clad dancers.

Don’t miss: Definitely DJ Station, (B400 entrance fee with a few free drinks) the perennially packed club at the very end of the soi . Dance till you drop to DJ sets, and get your fill of flamboyant costumes and performance at the cabaret shows. If this sounds a bit too much, walk a bit to the slightly more chill Soi Silom 4.

De-stress at Panpuri Wellness’ Japanese-style hot tub

What is it? One of Thailand’s most prominent wellness brands, Panpuri prides itself on its beauty products and indulgent spa programs that maximize the use of traditional ingredients and techniques.

Why go? Panpuri Wellness probably offers one of the most luxurious Japanese onsen experiences in the city. Its hot baths are rich in minerals and aromatic herbs that are good for both your body and mind. Plus the onsen is situated on the 12th floor of Gaysorn Village, so you get to look out to city views while soaking in steaming therapeutic water.

Don’t miss: The onsen, for sure. At only B750 for a one-day pass, it’s an affordable way to relax, and get rid of muscle pains and tiredness. But we suggest going all in and pairing your onsen session with Panpuri’s Signature Holistic Massage or Detox Day wellness package.

Find art inspiration at River City

• Department stores

What is it? An art-focused complex located on Soi Charoenkrung 42’s riverside promenade.  

Why go? No gallery in Bangkok can really compete with River City Bangkok, a five-story building that’s home to 80 sub-venues, from art galleries to antique shops. Stand-out shops include Tang Contemporary Art, which displays Chinese and Southeast Asian pieces, and the huge River City Bangkok-owned RCB Galleria, where big-deal exhibitions are always on.

Don’t miss: The Gallery Shop on the ground floor sells a huge collection of cool stuff, from art books to crafted keepsakes. It also offers products from world-renowned museums such as London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), and New York’s The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA).

Mingle with the cool kids at Warehouse 30

What is it? An old warehouse on Soi Charoenkrung 30 turned into a creative mixed-use space for art and lifestyle pursuits.

Why go? Here is where you can check out how the city’s hip kids spend their weekend. The venue is home to progressive galleries such as 333Anywhere and Aurum Gallery, plus several shops dedicated to the latest fashion trends and cool home decor.

Don’t miss: Aside from those two galleries, Warehouse 30 also ​​has the collectible-based ATTA Gallery and Woot Woot lifestyle shop. There are also cool restaurants and cafés within proximity. Try delicious comfort fare at Sweet Pista or walk a bit to Madi , which functions as both a café and a gallery.

Gag at a drag show at The Stranger Bar

What is it? A drag house on Soi Silom 4 run by Drag Race Thailand Season 2 alum M Stranger Fox and company.

Why go? The Stranger Bar is undoubtedly the place to be if you’re a drag enthusiast. Each night, this compact venue hosts fun performances by beautiful drag queens who you may have seen on the Thai edition of RuPaul’s Drag Race as well as newcomers who may become superstars in the future. (Pangina Heals, Thailand’s most popular drag queen, used to do gigs here, FYI.)

Don’t miss: The drag shows, obviously. So, go grab a drink, and get ready to gag over how fierce Thai drag queens can be. The bar is also committed to turning strangers into friends, so you may just expand your social circle before the night’s over.

Get an interactive education on Thai history at Museum Siam

What is it? An interactive museum, housed in the former Ministry of Commerce building, that brings play and learn together.

Why go? You’ll learn about Thailand’s history and the identity of its people through digitally interactive exhibitions that offer photo-ops galore. Temporary exhibitions and festivals are also regularly hosted at the museum’s spacious lawn.

Don’t miss: Visitors get the chance to slip on Thai period costumes and pose for photos—for free—as part of the permanent exhibition.

Go bar hopping around Soi Nana in Chinatown

What is it? A strip of cool bars that bring a touch of hip to Chinatown.

Why go? The most prominent bars on the stretch— Teens of Thailand , Tep Bar , Ba Hao and Asia Today —are all a few steps away from one another, making it easy to indulge in a night of exotic Thai-inspired drinks and local alternative culture.

Don’t miss : Gin drinks with Thai flavors (like jackfruit or Thai tea) at Teens of Thailand. It’s also the first establishment in Bangkok solely devoted to gin.

Channel your inner bookworm at Open House

What is it? Housed inside Central Embassy , this unique space has lots of natural light, co-working corners, artisanal eateries, and loads and loads of books.

Why go? This is where books, literally, pack the space from floor to ceiling, including art tomes and hardcover titles from famous publishers like Taschen, Phaidon and the like. We don’t have to say that it’s the perfect setting for Instagram.

Don’t miss: Open House has a corner devoted to English-language books about Thailand. A more indie variety can be found here, as well as lifestyle magazines in English.

Indulge in retail therapy at the shopping meccas in Ratchaphrasong

What is it? Bangkok’s best boutiques and best buys are all found on this road, starting from MBK and going all the way to Gaysorn Village.

Why go? No city does shopping malls like Bangkok. Apart from the sheer quantity of products, the spectacular interiors will leave you gawking even if you aren’t a shopaholic.

Don’t miss: The futuristic interiors at Siam Discovery, the behemoth that is centralwOrld, and the polished glamour of Gaysorn Village.

Dance under lasers at Beam

What is it? A two-story cutting-edge club housed among a bevy of other neon-lit food and beverage spots.

Why go? This is where Bangkok’s most beautiful (and moneyed) come out to play at night. A stiff dose of house/techno beats is served on the second level, while hip-hop and electrifying visuals take over the first floor.

Don’t miss: All the state-of-art tech are on the second level—the dance floor actually vibrates.

Stroll through Lumpini Park

What is it? Bangkok’s oldest public spot of greenery.

Why go? It offers respite and peace of mind with its serene lake, well-manicured lawns and heart-shaped walking route. Sightings of monitor lizards and seniors doing aerobics optional.

Don’t miss: The bird’s-eye view of the whole park is breathtaking. It’s best seen from SO Sofitel’s sky bar just across the street.

Sip cocktails at Sing Sing Theater

What is it? A bar and night club stunningly designed to capture the opulence of 1930s chinoiserie.

Why go? Bangkok is proudly home to many of Ashley Sutton’s whimsical creations. The Australian interior designer’s jaw-dropping bars are never short of majestic or magical, with Sing Sing being your gateway to old-world and Hollywood-esque Chinese charm.  

Don’t miss: They do gimmicky performances on the dance floor, so catch the best views from the second floor.

Make your own bespoke room fragrance at Panpuri

What is it? A luxurious beauty brand and spa that gives a fashionable twist to traditional indulgences and ingredients.

Why go? It’s the only Thai beauty brand with a bespoke room fragrance bar, where mixologists help customers create their very own perfume, complete with personalized boxes and wax seals.

Don’t miss: You can choose to bring home your very own scent in a form of candles, room diffusers, or essential oil.    

People-watch at The Commons

What is it ? A loft-like, open-air community mall that food lovers can’t afford to miss.

Why go? The Market on the ground floor is like a super cool canteen that sells trendy eats—from Nashville fried chicken to drip coffee to imported craft beer. Grab a table in the elevated seating area on the stairs to check out hipster patrons on every floor.

Don’t miss: Have your fill of the alcohol-injected shakes at Guss Damn Good. This is the only branch of the Boston-inspired ice cream parlor that serves them with Chandon Brut shots.

Visit the Neilson Hays Library

What is it? A privately funded library in one of the city’s few remaining neoclassical structures.

Why go? The building was designed by Mario Tamagno, the Italian architect who is also behind the stately Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Its charming interiors and peaceful corners make the library a much-loved institution.

Don’t miss: Visit on a Saturday and drop off your little ones at the story-telling session, while you browse through Nielson Hays’ many, many books—there are more than 17,000.

View stunning images at Kathmandu Photo Gallery

What is it? The home to all things Manit Sriwachpoom, a leading Thai contemporary photographer who’s behind the iconic photograph, Pink Man .

Why go? Framed prints are quaintly displayed on green walls inside a pre-war shophouse. On the second floor, temporary exhibitions of other emerging artists offer a visit no less mind-blowing and eye-opening.

Don’t miss: The book corner, which offers spiritually adventurous titles on topics ranging from Hinduism to mountain literature.

Munch on street eats at Tha Prachan

What is it? This bustling riverside area in the old town is filled with shophouse eateries, food stalls and snack carts that have perfected their street eats over the decades.

Why go? You can get a taste of time-honored dishes (look for stalls selling beef noodles), freshly-made stir-fries, and snacks galore.

Don’t miss: If you have limited stomach space, save it for the roti at Roti Mataba or the old-fashioned chao guay (grass jelly) from A Kung.

Catch a movie at first-class cineplexes

What is it? Popular malls such as Central Embassy, CentralWorld, ICONSIAM, EmQuartier and Siam Paragon are all home to world-class theaters that deserve six stars for the movie-watching experience.

Why go? Pillows, blankets, reclining armchairs, humongous sofas, popcorn and soft drinks are the minimum extras at these extravagant theaters. Before the movie starts, relax in their lounges, which offer mocktails and snacks from Haagen Daaz, Starbucks, Paul or even Harrods—all already included in your ticket price.

Don’t miss: If you want a more exciting movie experience, there are also IMAX theaters with 4D effects (fog storms, aromas, snow, you name it) or children’s theaters, which have slides and ball pools for kids.

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19 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

By Diana Hubbell and Katie Lockhart

One of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, Bangkok is an ever-changing, always-bustling cosmopolitan capital with much more on offer than incredible street food (although there’s plenty of that). Chaos covered in a hazy combination of charcoal grills, incense, and motorbike exhaust, it’s home to culture and history alongside luxury hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, cozy cocktail bars and a surplus of good times. Overwhelmed? That’s normal. After a day of temple hopping, hit up Chinatown for old-world architecture and some of the city’s best bars. Or go green with a stroll through the city’s coolest parks, followed by a multi-course meal aboard an antique barge or tucked inside a century-old shophouse. Here are our picks for what to do in Bangkok.

Read our complete Bangkok city guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Jim Thompson House Arrow

The home of American Jim Thompson, who made a fortune in the mid-20th century selling Thai silks, has been transformed into a museum displaying the businessman's collection of antiques, artwork, and religious artifacts. The canal-side property is made up of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, surrounded by a verdant garden. Known for more than just its art collection, the property was also a legendary spot for high-society parties.

Lumphini Park Arrow

Bangkok is the ultimate concrete jungle, and most of its green spaces have long been gobbled up by developers adding condominium towers to the skyline. But smack dab in the center of the city is leafy Lumphini Park; often called the "Central Park of Bangkok" and named after the Nepali birthplace of Buddha, this an urban respite for many Bangkokians. The geographical heart of the park is an artificial lake where you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats.

The Grand Palace Arrow

The land for the Grand Palace was designated in 1782—the same year the capital of Thailand moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok—and today it's home to various royal throne and ceremonial halls, as well as the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although the Thai royal family moved out by 1925, this sprawling complex remains an important structure for Thais, one that's also a central stop on the well-trodden tourist route.

Chinatown Arrow

Market lanes, glittery gold shops, phenomenal street food, temples with golden Buddhas, Daoist temples clouded with incense smoke, street art, history, and a neighborhood setting that feels untouched by time and modernization: Welcome to Bangkok’s enchanting Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. You don’t need tickets or reservations, just an appetite for Thai-Chinese street food and a penchant for getting a little lost in the name of exploration.

Wat Pho Arrow

The main draw at Wat Pho is the country’s largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture occupying nearly every inch of the building and leaving guests to observe its gold-plated form from all angles. Beyond the Buddha, an expansive compound has the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. The complex was Thailand’s first center for public education; people came to study its 1,360 marble inscriptions to learn about medicine, history, and liberal arts.

The Siam Arrow

Compared with many of its rivals, this Bangkok stalwart doesn’t have a location that’s wildly convenient: the postcard sights need a boat transfer, and most top tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But for me, and the legions of other loyal fans of this monochrome masterpiece by hotel guru Bill Bensley, that’s the point. Pitched up on a lush riverside plot in the hushed Dusit district, The Siam feels like a portal to a bygone Bangkok. Even though it opened a decade ago, it’s easy to imagine it as a plush playground for the city’s erstwhile big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms—vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks and chipped ceramics—adorn the marble-floored hallways. I’d be hard-pressed to point friends to a lovelier lunch spot than the hotel’s Thai restaurant, set between the timeworn pillars of three ancient teakwood houses, where butlers in dressy black sarongs deliver the kind of classic Thai hospitality—lilting “sawadee ka” greetings and tables set with fresh orchids—that’s becoming harder to find. None of which is to say that the hotel is stuffy—there’s a tattoo parlor in the spa. An ongoing refurb is keeping suites and private-pooled villas looking fresh. And with the opening of a Jim Thompson homeware boutique in the wooden house the illustrious silk magnate helped procure for its former owners, things have come full circle. The Thai capital’s five-star hotel scene gets plusher every year, but this timeless beauty remains in a league of its own. From $618. —Chris Schalkx

Chatuchak Weekend Market Arrow

Known as JJ Market to most locals (the official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound), this is the granddaddy of all markets: With 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world. Everything is buyable, from practical stuff like home décor, art, clothing, accessories, and cooking equipment, to trinkets and oddities like knock-off Nikes and Beats by Dre, iPhone covers, and—yes—even live animals. Despite its sheer size, though, the market is very well organized, with goods arranged by type and a large map posted near the entrance.

Wat Arun Arrow

Of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats , throughout Thailand, Wat Arun is one of the most iconic. The 269-foot tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, juts out from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and the temple complex is illuminated in a golden glow at night. This is one of the few temples in Thailand that you can climb; once you've ascended the steep and narrow stairs, you're in for a great view of the river and surrounding temple complex.

Smiling Albino Arrow

The peeps behind Smiling Albino have been at it since 1999, so you can rest assured they know what they’re doing. Their offerings fall in the custom luxury category: private experiences in Bangkok, cultural visits, and trips to nearby villages. They also organize weeklong trekking journeys in northern Thailand, cycling in Nepal, and motorcycling in Vietnam. Each trip is custom-made to your interests: no coaches and explanations shouted through a microphone, but rather personal guides and drivers.

Manohra Dinner River Cruise Arrow

This six-course dinner served aboard an an antique wooden rice barge is an excellent crash course in both Thai food and Bangkok's must-visit destinations along the river. Book it to get your bearings on what you'd like to explore during daylight—while eating fantastic dishes like a gold leaf-topped curry amuse bouche, a dry-ice play on mango sticky rice, and a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. The warm service rivals any fine-dining establishment on land, and the experience is perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening on the water.

Wat Prayoon (Prayurawongsawat Worawihan) Arrow

Sitting on the quieter Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is a crowd-free, surprise-filled temple compound with plenty of moments for peaceful solitude. Visitors can spend an afternoon here exploring the towering white chedi —it's rare to find one in Bangkok you can actually enter—or watching the turtles and monitor lizards in the Khao Mo garden. It's an excellent spot for families with young kids and temple-lovers looking for something besides a giant gold Buddha (although it's got one of those too).

Blue Elephant Cooking School Arrow

Bringing home a taste of Thai food is high on the list of most travelers, and in the always-hungry capital, there are lessons for newbies and pros alike. Blue Elephant’s half-day lesson is a good middle ground, where experienced cooks won’t be bored and novices won’t feel lost. At the morning lesson, small groups gather at the elegant colonial-style house before making their way to the multiethnic Bangrak market; the afternoon session, meanwhile, dives right into cooking.

The Jam Factory Arrow

Architect Duangrit Bunnag’s fingerprints are all over the revival of Bangkok’s waterfront. Savvy travelers will also notice his handiwork just across the Chao Phraya at Warehouse 30 . Down Charoenkrung Road in the former General Post Office lies the reopened Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), which Bunnag co-founded. The Jam Factory is at the core of his vision to shift the city’s gravitational center back to where it once lay: on the so-called River of Kings. He built this stunning complex anchored around an ancient Bodhi tree to house his firm’s main office, along with a hip restaurant, a gallery, and more.

100 Tonson Foundation Arrow

Over the past decade, Bangkok’s art scene has mushroomed from a few scattered galleries into a vibrant, thriving community. Much of that transformation has to do with Aey Phanachet’s groundbreaking contemporary art space in Ploenchit. In 2020, Tonson Gallery became a non-profit and changed its name to 100 Tonson Foundation.This was the first Thai gallery to participate in Art Basel, the Switzerland art fair, and it’s been a champion of Southeast Asian artists ever since. Despite its high-powered reputation, the gallery is open to casual art-lovers as well as collectors.

Wat Pariwat Arrow

Bangkok’s temples are truly a wonder to behold, but after a few days of battling the crowds, the appeal of gilded Buddha statues may start to wear thin. When you’ve conquered the major attractions, hop in a taxi to this Wat Pariwat, a one-of-a-kind temple down the Chao Phraya River. Sometimes nicknamed the David Beckham Temple for its statue of the famed soccer star below the main altar, Wat Pariwat is both an active place of worship and a hodgepodge of pop culture references.

Nusara Arrow

Follow the outdoor neon sign that says "Only Kids Drink Milk" to this fine-dining speakeasy that ranks 10th on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. Head to the back of Mayrai Pad Thai and Wine Bar, go up the spiral stairs and past the open kitchen, and find a small dining area set for 12. One of Bangkok's most exclusive reservations, the restaurant serves a 12-course set menu of Thai chili–laden dishes that are an ode to Chef Ton Tassanakajohn's grandmother, Nusara. Highlights include peanut relish with seasonal vegetables and shrimp paste water perfected over the course of 80 years.

Pak Khlong Talat Arrow

Bangkok’s bustling 24-hour flower market is a feast for the eyes and the nostrils—and one of the best places for jet-lagged travelers awake at odd hours to do some sightseeing. The highlight of the market is visiting the vendors along Chakkaraphet Road and watching locals prepare sacred temple offerings at lightning speed. They’re folding back the delicate petals of lotus blossoms, stringing fragrant jasmine into garlands known as malais, sorting through bags teeming with marigolds, and creating elaborate arrangements for funerals and weddings. Under the market’s tin roof, merchants sell bundles of orchids, button carnations, roses, green bananas still on the stem, towering stacks of prickly pineapples, and pre-made temple offerings. Across Chakkaraphet Road, don’t miss the elaborate ready-made bouquets and stacks of colorful orchids for 20 baht (60 cents) each.

Warehouse 30 Arrow

The creation of Warehouse 30 is the latest creative project in a string of artistic spaces in rehabbed historical buildings along Charenkrung Road. Under the artistic and watchful eye of Duangrit Bunnag, a founder of the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) and Thailand’s best-known architect, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses have become a bastion for local designers and artists. Ever-changing exhibition spaces, independent boutiques, a coffee shop, and more are all part of the new development. And while the shops and the vibe are new, the exposed beams and wood flooring are original.

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Top 35 BANGKOK Things to Do & Places to Visit

For the uninitiated, it’s easy to dismiss Bangkok as either a saint or a sinner. Outside its borders, the Thai capital is often depicted in two ways: with orange-clad monks walking in between sacred temples, and with wild, spirited souls enjoying the city’s notorious nightlife. But in between these two extremes is a full spectrum of attractions that solo travelers, couples, friends, and families can enjoy.

Yep, Bangkok is one of the best out-of-the-country destinations for all types of travelers! Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, a history buff, a partygoer, a backpacker or a shopaholic, good ol’ Bangkok can easily turn your itinerary bursting at the seams. Here are just some of the things to do and places to visit (and revisit) in and around Bangkok!

TOP BANGKOK TOURIST ATTRACTIONS (Essential Links)

In this post, we’ll be sharing with you 35+ key tourist attractions in Bangkok. If you only have a few days, you won’t be able to see and try them all. So here are the highlights that you might want to prioritize.

• Mahanakhon Skywalk
• Grand Palace & Temples GUIDED Tour
• Floating Market & Railway Market Tour
• Pattaya Day Tour
• Ayutthaya Day Tour
• Dream World Bangkok – Skip-the-line tickets
• Siam Amazing Park – Discounted tickets
• Michelin Food Tour Bangkok
• Bangkok Hangover Tour – Nightlife, NOT for kids

OTHER BANGKOK MUST-HAVES: Top Bangkok Hotels BTS Rabbit Card (Train) BTS One-Day Pass (Train) Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

More tips on our BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

KING POWER MAHANAKHON SKYWALK

Towering 314 meters over the central business district of Bangkok, King Power Mahanakhon is one of the tallest buildings in the country. The 78-floor skyscraper houses a hotel, residential spaces, and retail shops.

From the bottom, you’ll have your imagination tickled by the design of the building, which resembles a pixelated square prism. And at the very top, you’ll be presented with some of the best panoramic views of the city from either its indoor 360-degree observation deck on the 74th and 75th floors, or its outdoor roof deck called The Peak . But that’s not all. One corner of the rooftop has a glass floor, hanging above the dizzying heights. It’s called Skywalk or Glass Tray Experience. To enjoy it, you only need to cover your shoes before stepping on it.

⛔️ Using your phone while within the glass area is NOT allowed. If you’re here for the photos, it’s best to come with a companion who can take pics of you from the outside. Otherwise, you’ll have to ask strangers. Or find other solo visitors, take photos of them, and ask them to return the favor.

The best time to go is before sunset. This way, you get to see the city in the daytime and at night.

Oh by the way, the elevator ride is also quite the experience. The walls of the elevators are covered with digital screens, creating a virtual show as it zooms passengers up to the 74th floor in about 50 seconds.

At the lobby are Mahanakhon SkyRides , said to be the world’s first self-controlled ParadropVR City Flyer that makes you experience paragliding virtually.

Address: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk: Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

The number of visitors per day is limited, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options including a drink, food, or ticket to SkyRide.

✅ CHECK OPTIONS & RESERVE YOUR TICKET HERE!

CHAO PHRAYA RIVER CRUISE

Most of the greatest cities in the world rise on the banks of a major river. And for Bangkok, that’s the Chao Phraya. Cutting through the capital city, the river spills into the Gulf of Thailand and plays a key role throughout history.

Today, it serves as one of the city’s main public thoroughfares, offering locals and tourists an alternative mode of commute through passenger and express boat services. Another popular activity along the Chao Phraya River (and the connecting Thonburi Canals) is the boat cruise or boat tour. Some of the iconic landmarks you’ll see when you go on a boat tour or cruise are the:

• National Museum of Royal Barges
• Grand Palace
• Other temples built along the river
• Homes of local river dwellers

You can do the boat tour via Express Boat River Taxis (Blue Flag Line for tourists) or private longtail boats. But if you want to make it more special, you can avail of a cruise package, organized by tour operators.

These tours usually depart from either Asiatique The Riverfront or ICONSIAM. Whether you want to do it during the day, at sunset, or at night, choose the cruise package that best suits your preference. You have plenty of choices, with some of them covering a proper meal or a dinner buffet. The rates depend on the package inclusions.

If you want to indulge in a river cruise with a sumptuous dinner buffet offering, you can score a great deal when you book it via Klook!

✅ CHECK OPTION A & BOOK HERE!

✅ CHECK OPTION B & BOOK HERE!

✅ CHECK OPTION C & BOOK HERE!

GRAND PALACE & TEMPLES TOUR

More than 90% of Thailand’s population practices Buddhism (Theravada), making it the second-highest number of Buddhists in the world, next to China. Religion is deeply ingrained in Thai culture and has helped shaped the country’s identity. The tangible physical manifestations of its significance are the numerous temples in the country, with Bangkok housing some of the most well-known and revered.

Although it’s entirely possible to see these iconic temples DIY-style, it’s always recommended to be with a local guide, who can share more insights about each site. Klook offers a package that covers the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. It includes admission tickets, an English-speaking guide, a boat transfer fee, insurance, a refreshing face towel, and drinking water.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha

To officially establish Bangkok as the new capital, King Rama I (King Phutthayotfa Chulalok) commissioned the building of the Grand Palace complex, which served as the royal residence and housed the government offices until 1925.

It is huge, spanning an area of about 218,000 square meters and harboring several remarkable cultural and historical structures built and added by King Rama I’s successors. The three oldest buildings are the Phra Maha Monthian , the Dusit Haha Prasat Throne Hall , and the most distinguished Temple of the Emerald Buddha , which also includes the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha where the revered image is kept. The statue measures 66cm in height and 48.3cm in width. Despite the “emerald” in its name, it is actually made from a block of jasper.

⛔️ DRESS CODE: no sleeveless shirts, no short tops, no vests, no see-through tops, no torn pants, no short hot pants or short pants, no tight pants, no bike pants/cycling shorts, no mini skirts. If you really can’t help it, you can bring a sarong for cover or extra loose pants and outerwear.

⛔️ PROHIBITED ITEMS & ACTIVITIES: Going LIVE on social media, taking photos of inappropriate behavior (jump shots, stunts, etc.), and shooting prenup or pre-wedding photos are NOT ALLOWED. Video cameras, drones, tripods, gimbals, microphones, zoom lenses, and selfie sticks are also PROHIBITED. We were also told that taking videos even on your phone is not allowed. You can only take photos with it.

Entrance fee is ฿500. The ticket has three parts.

• Part 1 covers a visit to the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha Museum, and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles (valid within the day of purchase).
• Part 2 is for visiting the Arts of the Kingdom Museum, the Masterpieces by Artisans of Queen Sirikit Institute at Koh Kerd, Bang Pa-in District, Ayudhaya Province (valid within 7 days after purchase).
• Part 3 is for admission to “Khon” Thai Classical Masked Dance (valid within 7 days after purchase, Monday to Friday only).

Inside the complex, you can also join a FREE guided tour but only at specified times. See the pic below for the timings.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Nearest Station: Tha Chang Ferry Station (N9); Saphan Taksin BTS Station is just across Sathorn Central Pier, where you can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) or the Tourist Boat; Sanam Chai MRT Station, 15-minute walk from here or take Bus No. 3, 9, 44, 47, 53 and 82. Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM. Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM. Entrance Fee: Regular, ฿500/person; Children below 120cm height, FREE.

Just a 10-minute walk southward from the Grand Palace stands Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in the city. Although the founder and the date of its foundation could not be precisely determined, it is said to date back around the 16th century, preceding the establishment of Bangkok as the new capital in the 18th century.

Its official name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan , but it is commonly referred to as Wat Pho, which is a contraction of its older name, Wat Photaram . It is deeply tied with King Rama I, who rebuilt the temple complex on its original site and designated it as his main temple. Later on, some of his ashes were kept here.

Wat Pho is one of the six highest-grade first-class royal temples in Thailand. It boasts the largest collection of Buddha images in the country, including the world-famous 46-meter-long reclining Buddha housed in the main ordination hall. Hence, it is also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha .

Aside from its cultural and historical relevance, the temple complex is also celebrated for its educational significance, especially in the field of medical science. Besides hosting a school of Thai medicine, it also features a total of 1,360 marble inscriptions about medical sciences, anatomy, orthopedics, liberal studies, and history scattered around the temple complex. Wat Pho is also regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Location: 2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Nearest Station: Tha Thien (N8) is the closest, but it is currently closed and under renovation. Tha Chang Ferry Station (N9) is an alternative but entails a 10-minute walk. To get to either station, take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station, walk to Sathorn Central Pier, and board a boat to Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 8:00 AM-6:30 PM (Temple Complex); Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thai Traditional Medical School/Thai Massage Service). Entrance Fee: Regular, ฿200/person; Children below 120cm height, FREE. The rate is inclusive of a free bottled water. Just scan your ticket at the designated water vending machine. Massage Service Rates: Thai Massage – ฿260 (30 Minutes); ฿420 (1 Hour) | Foot Massage – ฿280 (30 Minutes); ฿420 (1 Hour)

Famous for its 19th-century main prang, a distinctive 82-meter tall pagoda-style structure that overlooks the Chao Phraya River and the Yai district, Wat Arun is undoubtedly one of the city’s prominent cultural landmarks.

Also called the Temple of Dawn , it was named after the Hindu god Aruna, usually personified as the rays of the rising sun. Its history is believed to go all the way back to the 17th century. Situated on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, right across Wat Pho, it is easily accessed by boat. From

Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Bangkok Nearest Station: Wat Arun has its own pier. From Wat Pho, travel on foot to Tha Thien (N8) pier and then board the boat to take you across the river. Fare is ฿5. Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: Regular, ฿100/person. The ticket rate is inclusive of bottled water.

FLOATING & RAILWAY MARKETS

If you are looking for a unique shopping and food-tripping experience, you can try Thailand’s interesting and unusual public markets near Bangkok! Try native delicacies and practice your haggling skills while exploring on a boat at one of the two well-known floating markets. If you are feeling quite adventurous, traverse the railway track lined with cafés and stalls.

It’s possible to visit these markets independently, but you need to mind your timings, especially at Marklong Railway Market. The highlight, of course, is the passing of the train, which happens only a few times in a day. Some scammers also overcharge for boat tours at the floating markets.

If you want a hassle-free journey or you simply don’t want to deal with scammers, try joining a guided tour! Klook can take you to Maeklong Railway Market PLUS a visit to either Damnoen Floating Market or Amphawa Floating Market.

✅ CHECK RATES & BOOK HERE!

Damnoen Floating Market

Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok in Ratchaburi Province, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most visited and busiest in Thailand. For over 100 years, the canal flourished as a trade hub for local merchants. Presently, it has also become one of the country’s famous tourist attractions. Tourists get to witness and experience the traditional way of trading in the area.

Spanning 32 kilometers with over 200 smaller canals branching from the main waterway, the Damnoen Saduak Canal (Klong Damnoen Saduak) is currently the longest and straightest in Thailand. The construction started in the second half of the 19th century during the reign of King Rama IV and was finally finished two years after during the reign of King Rama V.

The usual scenario at the water market is merchants selling their wares and products on their boats — souvenirs, fruits, vegetables, clothes, and food. You can also hop onto a traditional long-tail boat to explore beyond the main market area and pass by houses on stilts. Usually, the cost of a one-hour boat tours ranges between ฿100 and ฿800 per person or ฿1,500 per boat. Beware of those who will charge you ฿2,000 per person for an hour boat ride.

If you are planning to buy something, especially souvenirs, make sure you haggle well because this is a very famous tourist destination, so expect the prices to be much higher.

Market Schedule: Monday-Sunday, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM. Location: 51 Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) How to Get to Damnoen Floating Market: From the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), board Bus No. 78 bound for Damnoen Saduak. The travel duration is 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic condition. The fare is ฿50 per way. From the bus terminal at Damnoen, take a taxi to the floating market. The distance from the bus station to the floating market is about one kilometer. Beware of scammers. It’s best to open your Google Maps to track your journey. Alternatively, you can join a tour from Bangkok. This is usually inclusive of roundtrip transfers between Bangkok and Damnoen. Check the inclusions and itinerary before booking.

Amphawa Floating Market

Located about 10 kilometers south of Damnoen Floating Market, the Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram Province is also popular among tourists, especially those who want to experience authentic local dishes and Thai delicacies. While Damnoen has its manmade canal, Amphawa operates along the Mae Klong River.

In the past, many merchant boats, with their products and wares including food, ply this part of the river. Today, bigger boats for sightseeing and firefly-watching activities dominate the waterway. There are still a few vendors who sell on their boats, but most of them are stationed almost motionless on either side of the river. Many souvenir shops and stalls welcome tourists who are on the hunt for trinkets, accessories, and clothes among others.

Unlike Damnoen which operates daily from morning until early evening, Amphawa is a weekend afternoon market that runs from Friday to Sunday only . The market is particularly well-known for its gastronomic offering, especially seafood and coconut. Some of the must-try munchies for foodies are coconut pancakes, coconut ice cream, pork dim sum or meatballs, and noodles. Tourists usually love lounging and eating in one of the rustic restaurants and cafés lining the river banks.

Bedecked with charming riverside homestays and guesthouses, Amphawa is also a popular weekend getaway or staycation destination among locals.

And did I mention watching fireflies? Words are not enough to describe how magical the experience was. Photos and videos cannot really capture how enchanting the fireflies were as they transform into natural Christmas lights decorating the Lampoon trees. You have to be here and experience it yourself. The rate for firefly watching is ฿60 per person or ฿600 per boat, while the sightseeing boat tour is ฿50 per person or ฿500 per boat.

Market Schedule: Friday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-9:30 PM. Location: Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) How to Get to Amphawa Floating Market: From the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), board the minivan bound for Amphawa Floating Market. The travel duration is 1.5-2 hours, depending on the traffic condition. The fare is ฿70 per way. Alternatively, you can join a tour from Bangkok. This is usually inclusive of roundtrip transfers between Bangkok and Amphawa. Check the inclusions and itinerary before booking.

Maeklong Railway Market

Hoop Rom Market coming through!

Stretching more than 100 meters in Samut Songkhram, the Maeklong Railway Market is known by many names. One nickname is Siang Tai Market , which means “life-risking market” because of its precarious location along the Mae Klong-Ban Laem train tracks. Another moniker is Hoop Rom Market or “umbrella-closing market”, referring to the effect of the passing train on the vendors along the tracks.

You see, the train tracks are flanked by shops selling local products and delicacies. Common items for sale are fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats, dried goods, spices, seasonings, clothes, and souvenir items. A few cafes and restaurants offer both local and international grubs. Providing outside seating is the norm as visitors normally search for spots to wait for the arrival of the passing train. The train is said to be one of the slowest in Thailand, but visitors still need to be careful when taking photos and videos of the approaching/passing train.

When the signal for an incoming train rings, vendors expertly and quickly dismantle and fold their parasols or canvas roofings to clear the train tracks of any obstructions. Once it has passed, they promptly set them up again as if nothing happened. This folding-unfolding scenario occurs eight times daily, following the train’s timetable. Here’s the schedule:

Train Arrival at Mae Klong Station

Train Departure from Mae Klong Station

Mae Klong Station is located on the western end of the train market. If you want to ride the train passing through Hoop Rom Market, you can board a train bound for Mahachai Railway Station at Bangkok’s Wonwian Yai Railway Station. From Mahachai Station, take a ferry to Tha Chalom on the other side of the river, then get on a train at Ban Laem Railway Station to Mae Klong Railway Station.

Market Schedule: Daily, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM. Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) How to Get to Maeklong Railway Market: From the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), board the minivan bound for Maeklong Railway Market. The travel duration is 1.5-2 hours, depending on the traffic condition. The fare is ฿70 per way. Alternatively, you can join a tour from Bangkok. This is usually inclusive of roundtrip transfers between Bangkok and Mae Klong. Check the inclusions and itinerary before booking.

BANGKOK THEME PARKS

• Dream World

Covering a total area of 256,000 square meters, Dream World embodies a world of fantasy, fun, and adventure. Because of its longitudinal shape, the theme park is very easy to navigate — just explore from the south, where the main entrance is, all the way to the north, where the most extreme rides are located.

It attracts visitors of all ages with its over 40 attractions, rides, and shows, divided into four zones. But the most noteworthy of them is Adventure Land, a futuristic and space-themed zone packed with extreme rides. Most of what people consider the BEST RIDES are here, including:

• Grand Canyon , river rapids
• Super Splash , a splashy water-based ride
• Sky Coaster , hanging rollercoaster with loops
• Vikings , a pendulum ride
• Tornado , a swing-and-spin ride

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World SUPER Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

• Siam Amazing Park

Also known as Siam Park City (its former name), Siam Amazing Park is not shy when it comes to superlatives. Covering an area of 120 acres, it holds the record of being the largest theme park in the country. It also has the largest wave pool in the world, according to the Guinness World Record as currently the largest in the world, and Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster (with five inversions). And oh, let not forget the 7-story water slides.

With more than 30 rides, including impressive waterslides and extreme rides, world-class traditional shows, and games, Siam Amazing Park records two million visitors annually. The whole park complex is divided into six zones:

• Water World. This zone features the largest wave pool in the world, the gigantic seven-color slide, Speed Slide, and Si-Am Lagoon.
• Extreme World. This zone brandishes world-class extreme rides. Some of the favorites are Vortex, Giant Drop, Boomerang, and Log Flume.
• Adventure World. This zone focuses on the Jurrasic era theme. Ride a jeep and go on a Jurrasic Adventure, meeting 60 different species of dinosaurs!
• Family World. This zone highlights family-friendly attractions and activities. Fun activities include Africa Adventure, Si-Am Tower, Dinotopia, The Merry Go Round, Grand Canyon Express, and Big Double Shock.
• Small World. This zone is for toddlers and kids at heart! The rides are specifically made for children not more than 130cm tall. Fun attractions include Mini Merry Go Round, Play Port, Mini Motorcycles, Swan Boats, Mini Boats, and Mini Astrofighter.
• Bangkok World. This is located at the entrance of the park. It covers an area of over 27 acres showcasing the architectural heritage of Bangkok. Enjoy Thai culture through the food, performances, attractions, and local products.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. The adult ticket rate is valid for a one-day unlimited rides pass to Water World, Xtreme World, Adventure World, and Family World. The child ticket rate is valid for one-day unlimited rides pass to Water World, Family World, and Small World. Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. How to Get to Siam Amazing Park: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

You can purchase your ticket in advance online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Pororo Aqua Park

The newly renovated Pororo Aqua Park interestingly brings aquatic fun to CentralPlaza Bangna’s rooftop! Covering about 10,000 square meters, it satisfies your thirst for some water adventure. Pororo is a famous South Korean penguin cartoon character. The slides, water attractions, and facilities are all inspired by this cute character.

Some of the highlights are Pororo’s Funnel, Pororo’s River, Pororo’s Playground Pool, and Tong Tong’s Magic Slide, which slides over the city’s skyline below. Water attractions are spread over nine different zones. You can grab something to eat at the snack bar when you get hungry. And if you still have energy for shopping, you can do so at the mall below the aqua park.

Location: 6th Floor, CentralPlaza Bangna, 585 Debaratna Road, Bang Na, Bangkok Nearest Station: Udomsuk BTS Station. From here, you can get on the CentralPlaza Bangna Shuttle Bus. Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Regular, ฿400; Reduced, ฿280; Children below 90cm, FREE

Get a discounted ticket when you book with Klook!

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE!

BANGKOK FOOD TRIP

If we were to rank our favorite international cuisines, we would always place Thailand in our Top 3. The food is the main reason we keep on coming back over and over again. And for us, any Thailand trip is a waste without digging into some of the local dishes.

Thankfully, the Thais are very open and extremely proud of their gastronomy. In Bangkok (or any other city in Thailand for that matter), not only will you be able to stuff your face with local grubs, you’ll also have an opportunity to learn more about their national dishes and even learn how to cook them.

Thai Cooking Class

You cannot always fly to Thailand whenever you crave your favorite Thai dishes, so the best course of action, especially if you love being in the kitchen and cooking your own food or preparing meals for others, is to attend a cooking class while in Bangkok.

Numerous cooking schools offer different types of packages, most of them include going to a local market and buying your own ingredients with the guidance of your instructor. Klook curated some of the cooking classes offered in Bangkok. We sorted them by area below.

SILOM/SIAM AREA:

✅ Silom Thai Cooking School – Closest Station: BTS Chong Nonsi

✅ Sompong Thai Cooking School – Closest Stations: BTS Chong Nonsi, BTS Saint Louis

✅ Blue Elephant Cooking Class – Closest Station: BTS Surasak

SUKHUMVIT AREA

✅ Bangkok Thai Academy – Closest Station: BTS On Nut

KHAO SAN/BANGLAMPHU AREA

✅ Maliwan Thai Cooking Class – 5-minute walk from Khao San Road

Michelin Food Tour

Are you also the type of foodie traveler who is on the lookout for Michelin-approved dining places?Bangkok has several Michelin-starred restaurants and Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded eateries! Here are just some of them:

2 Michelin Stars

• Chef’s Table
• Le Normandie at Mandarin Oriental

1 Michelin Star

• Chim by Siam Wisdom
• J’Aime by Jean-Michel Lorain
• Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin
• Savelberg Thailand

Bib Gourmand

Quality food doesn’t have to be fancy and expensive. Bangkok also has its share of eateries a Michelin Bib Gourmand, the Michelin Guide’s value-for-money award. This is for establishments who offer great, worth-the-travel food but at much more budget-friendly prices. Here are some of the establishments we were able to try and their best-selling specialties. We’ll also create a separate article about these.

• Polo Fried Chicken – fried chicken, som tum, larb/laap
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) – tom yum noodle soup, salmon salad, fried pork belly. This is incredibly popular and customers need to wait over an hour to get seated. But Klook offers a fast-track access, which are prioritized by the resto. Reserve here!
• Go-Ang Pratunam – Hainanese chicken rice, braised pork
• Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu (Dinsor Road) – pad thai
• Thipsamai – pad thai with prawns
• Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – fried rice noodles with chicken and seafood
• Poon Lert Room – khao na gai (chicken gravy rice)
• Ten Suns – beef noodle soup

If you want to try some of the Michelin-awarded food spots on one day, you can join a guided Michelin Food Tour around Bangkok!

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

Midnight Food Tour

Too busy checking out tourist attractions in the daytime? Don’t worry, you can still have a taste of Bangkok’s best eats even at midnight! If you are a night owl, you’ll be glad to know that Bangkok’s food scene remains alive and kicking even after hours. Some must-visit restaurants, eateries, food stalls, and night markets remain open.

Not sure where to go and what to try? You can join a night food tour where a local guide leads you to local favorites and even hidden culinary spots. Klook offers Bangkok’s Best Eats Midnight Food Tour by Tuktuk. This covers seven (7) food and drinks tastings.

✅ BOOK MIDNIGHT FOOD TOUR HERE!

Street Food

Who doesn’t want cheap eats? And when it comes to pocket-friendly pig-out finds, Bangkok will never leave you wanting. The city is bursting with a myriad of street food — skewered food, noodle soup, rice meals, native sweets, local snacks, coconut ice cream, milk tea, fruit juices, and even exotic delicacies.

Public and night markets, streets, and even some malls like MBK Center and Platinum provide selling spaces for street food vendors.

BANGKOK NIGHTLIFE

Bangkok is a ‘sanctuary’ for night revelers. The hubbub in the city continues from day to late night, and even the next day, as people flock to various bars, bistros, and nightclubs! Indulge in the lively and crazy night districts in the capital including Soi Cowboy, Nana Plaza, Khao San Road, and Pat Pong.

Drink until you drop when you join a pub crawl/bar hopping tour, take that The Hangover movie experience yourself, dance to the music and merrymaking, or just savor the night scene in all its neon glory. Whatever floats your boat.

Khao San Road

Hailed as a ‘Backpacker Mecca’ in 2015, Khao San Road rose to fame largely due to the relatively cheap accommodations it offers. Stretching about 410 meters in the Bang Lamphu area of Phra Nakhon District, the road becomes busier and more interesting as the night unfolds and bars start setting up tables outside and blasting songs that overlap and compete as you walk down its length. It’s a huge street party where an invisible DJ incessantly plays a hodgepodge of party songs.

Adding to the bustle are vendors hustling along the road and selling Thai snacks, street food, exotic offering, souvenir items, and the like. An alleyway adjacent to the main road has quaint and laidback bars with live bands playing.

Bar hopping / Pub Crawl

If you love cocktails and beer so much and you live for casual interactions, you will definitely dig pub crawls or bar hopping tours. Some hostels offer pub crawl experiences to their guests, especially those near the popular nightlife and watering hole districts. Hop from one bar to another ordering drinks from each one with your group. Mingle with new people and jingle those mugs, bottles, and glasses. Cheers!

If you are looking for safe and reputable operators and guides, you can book your pub crawl experience with Klook! The package includes stopping at Cowboy Street, Nana plaza, and the nightclub area. You also have the option to join a group or avail of the private tour.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Bangkok Hangover Tour

If you love The Hangover 2 movie, you can relive their nightlife adventure by visiting the bars in the Soi Cowboy area where it was shot. Depending on the package, the itinerary may include Nana Plaza and Pat Pong other than Soi Cowboy. You’ll definitely find the quirky stuff you’re too curious about in Bangkok — Pinpong shows, fetish bars, and other crazy antics.

Massage and Spa Options

Self-care is an essential part of health and wellness, so why not take this opportunity to go all out and take that well-deserved relaxation? After all, you’re in Thailand, where world-famous Thai massage originated!

Because spa and massage centers mushroom throughout the city, businesses have become creative with their offers to stand out. Specializations include aromatherapy and essential oils, herbal compress, deep tissue massage, foot reflexology, facial, and traditional Thai massage. Some promise anti-inflammation, anti-germs, and anti-oxidation benefits, while others focus on theme and setting.

You have strings of options! Here are some spa services curated by Klook:

✅ ONE MORE THAI SPA – Near BTS Cit Lom Station

✅ OASIS SPA SUKHUMVIT – Closest is BTS Phrom Pong Station

✅ ONCE UPON A THAI SPA – Closest is BTS Phrom Pong Station!

Muay Thai Match Show

With its root tracing back to the 16th century as part of Thai military training, muay thai is part of the nation’s identity and is widely popular across the country. Called the ‘art of eight limbs’, this contact sport uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It began to gain international attention between the late 20th century and the early 21st century when Thai practitioners competed in kickboxing abroad.

Bangkok has two stadiums where Muay Thai matches are usually held in the evening:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6, Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1, Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Muay Thai Class

Why settle with just watching muay thai from afar when you can learn it! While in Bangkok, join a class in one of the local martial arts studios offering introductory training. You can also book a private class if you want a more personalized or hands-on experience.

Don’t forget to bring extra clothes, a towel, and enough water. These training studios are usually equipped with shower rooms and toilets.

You can book Klook’s Muay Thai Class by Watchara Muay Thai Gym. This is inclusive of an English-speaking instructor, hand wraps, gloves, and other necessary equipment.

SHOPPING SPOTS

Whether retail or wholesale, Bangkok is, without question, one of the cheapest shopping destinations in the world. Wherever you feel comfortable shopping — bargain centers, fashion halls, shopping malls, public markets, and weekend markets — you will surely find something you like for yourself and for your loved ones.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Officially opened in 1942, the Chatuchak Market is a sprawling shopping mecca that has been drawing both local and foreign shoppers and vendors. Welcoming more than 200,000 visitors, it is inarguably the busiest in the country. Composed of over 15,000 stalls, manned by 11,500 vendors in a 35-acre land area, it is dubbed as the largest and most diverse weekend market in the world.

For sale here is a full gamut of products imaginable, grouped into 30 sections. A market map can be usually seen at the entrance gate areas. To maximize your time here, you can take a photo of the map to guide you while you shop. Note that there are three entrance gates: on Kamphaeng Phet 2 (Entrance 1), on Kamphaeng Phet 3 (Entrance 2), and on Phahonyothin Road (Entrance 3).

To give you an overview, here are the stuff you’ll see per section:

Section 1 & 29: Antiques, Accessories, Books, Thai Instruments Section 2-4: Teen Clothings and Accessories Section 5-6: Used Clothings and Shoes Section 7: Arts & Painting Section 8: Carvings, Spa, Incense Section 9-11: Handcraft & Artificial Flowers Section 12, 14, 21-24: Clothing, Accessories, Shoes Section 13: Postcards, Souvenirs, Pet/Animal Stuff Section 15, 19-20: Tableware, Ceramic, Silver, Home Decorations Section 16-18: Clothing, Hiking Equipment, Leather Section 25: Ceramic & Silk Section 26: Antiques, Home Decorations, Photo Frames Section 27-28: Handcrafts, Books, Miscellaneous, Others Section 30: Clothing & Miscellaneous

Food stalls are mostly clustered in one area near Entrance 1. Others are scattered around the market hallways. So, flex your bargaining muscles and shop until you drop.

Location: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chatuchak Park MRT Station, Chatuchak Park BTS Station, or Kamphaeng Phet MRT Station Opening Hours: Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM (Whole Market); Friday, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Wholesale Only); Wednesday-Thursday, 7:00 AM-6:00 PM (Plant Section Only).

With retail stores spread across Ratchaprarop and Phetchaburi Roads in Ratchathewi District, Pratunam Market is one of the biggest wholesale garment markets in the country. It features both indoor and outdoor shopping areas, touting mostly clothes and accessories. But other products like toiletries, toys, medicines, and houseware are also available.

Although the stores generally cater to wholesalers, they still happily accommodate retail buyers or those who buy in small quantities. Haggling is normal, so don’t be shy to negotiate the price when you see something you really like and feel like you can still get it at a much lower price.

Don’t forget to check out Pratunam Center , a building at the heart of Pratunam. If you are more comfortable shopping outside, just be careful of the passing vehicles.

Location: Ratchatewi District, Bangkok Nearest Station: Ratchathewi BTS Station Opening Hours: The market is open 24/7, but most shops start operating at 11:00 AM. The best time to shop is between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Platinum Fashion Mall

On the other side of Petchaburi Road and across the Pratunam Market area, Platinum Fashion Mall entices shopaholics and fashionistas from around the globe. Showcasing a plethora of fashion styles and products, it is one of the largest and most favored wholesale and retail shopping destinations in Thailand.

From Thai designer collections to the latest international trends, it delights shoppers on the hunt for clothes, accessories, footwear, and leather goods. More than 2,500 shops are housed in this multi-level air-conditioned shopping haven. You might get lost in the maze-like colorful hallways that look similar, but who cares, right? Just set a specific place and time to meet your companions after your shopping spree.

For foodies, you will find most of the dining places on Level 6 and the Basement Level. The Food Center, the mall’s food junction, and the restaurants are on Level 6, while the cafés and dessert places are on the basement level.

For your shopping guide, here are the item categories per floor/level:

• 6th Level (Food Center): Food & Beverage, Souvenirs, Mobile Accessories
• 5th Level (Orchard): Kids, Leathers, Accessories
• 4th Level (Camden): Men, Leather Products
• 3rd Level (Nathan): Women, Men
• 2nd Level (Oxford): Women
• 1st Level (Soho): Women, Information Counter
• Basement Level (Ginza): Jeans, Fashion Clothes, Food & Beverage

Location: 222 Phetchaburi Road, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chit Lom BTS Station or Siam BTS Station. From either station, take the elevated R-Walk through Gaysorn Village. Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-8:00 PM.

Palladium World Shopping Mall

Also located in the Pratunam neighborhood, the Palladium World Shopping Mall (or simply Palladium) is the place to go for IT-related stuff — phone accessories, tech gadgets, electronics, printing, cameras, and the like. But of course, fashion items and accessories also abound here: the latest styles, vintage clothes, textiles, costumes, and even school uniforms!

Palladium’s basement also beckons blingholics and gemmaphiles who are hunting for their next treasured jewelry — silver, gold, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more! Massage services and dining places are also available.

Location: 555 Ratchaprarop Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chit Lom BTS Station or Ratchaprarop Railway Station Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

Siam Square

Located in the Siam neighborhood, Siam Square is a shopping and entertainment destination, immortalized in pop culture as the setting of the film The Love of Siam . With over 400,000 people passing through this area daily, it is also sometimes regarded as the heart of shopping in the city.

Combining massive modern malls with humble street vendor stalls, it caters to both young and old and all kinds of shoppers, from bargain hunters to luxury chasers. The entertainment and shopping area spans from Phayathai Road to Henri Dunant and from Rama I Road to the Chulalongkorn Campus. A skywalk links it to nearby shopping centers, including Siam Paragon and MBK Center , and the Ratchaprasong shopping district.

Location: 388 Rama I Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok Nearest Station: Siam BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

IconSIAM is part of the multi-awarded mixed-use development property on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Since its opening in November 2018, it has already amassed several design awards. Covering an extensive retail space area of 525,000 square meters, it is hailed as one of the largest shopping malls in Asia. Most of the restaurants, retail brands, and shops here are on the luxury or high-end side.

It also houses the first Siam Takashimaya department store in Thailand. One of the highlights is the indoor floating market — the Sook Siam . More than 3,000 local businesses from all over the country were brought here to showcase the cultural roots of Thailand through their products — crafts, food, products, and more — while paying tribute to the floating markets in neighboring provinces.

Location: 299 Charoen Nakhon Road, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

Siriraj Medical Museum

Siriraj Forensic Museum is located in the Siriraj Hospital complex, the country’s first modern medical hospital and school which was founded in 1888 by King Rama V. It includes a total of seven small museums, each focusing on a specific medical field:

Adulayadejvikrom Building

• Ellis Pathological Museum (8th Floor). This focuses on pathological diseases, disease-infected organs, and the evolution of medicine.
• Parasitology Museum (7th Floor). The museum displays different kinds of parasites and their life cycles, disease-carrying insects, and venomous animals, as well as preventive measures and cures.
• Songkran Niyomsan Forensic Medicine Museum (2nd Floor). This showcases the methods of forensic science — physical evidence examination, murder methods, skeleton and skull samples, and various body parts preserved in glasses. The museum previously displayed the mummified body of Si Ouey Sae Urng , believed to be the first known serial killer and cannibal in modern Thailand. But he was eventually removed from the museum and was cremated in July 2020.
• Touch Museum (2nd Floor). Opened in 2013, this museum was founded in honor of Queen Mother Sirikit. This caters to both visually impaired and regular visitors. The museum is divided into eight (8) bases: optics and visual system, breasts and breast cancer, respiratory system, stomach and digestive system, female reproductive system, male reproductive system, bone marrow and joints, and drugs and medicine.

Anatomy Building

• Congdon Anatomical Museum (3rd Floor). The museum houses over 2,000 human anatomy specimens such as human and animal figures, skeletons, organs, and medical dissections.
• Sood Sangvichien Prehistoric Museum & Laboratory (1st Floor). This museum tackles the evolution of life forms — from prehistoric times to the early primate era about 70 million years ago. It also exhibits tools from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic Ages.

Old Bangkok Noi Train Station

• Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum. Opened in 2013, the museum is situated beside the newly-opened Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital, the hospital’s private subsidiary. It shows the history of the hospital and Thai medicine/medical science.

Location: Siriraj Hospital, Siri Rat, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok Nearest Station: The Wang La Pier or Thonburi Railway Station Pier via Chao Phraya Express Boat Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday, CLOSED. As of writing, Sood Sangvichien Prehistoric Museum & Laboratory is temporarily closed. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum OR Siriraj Medical Museum – Adult, ฿200; Child, ฿25 | BOTH Museums – Adult, ฿300; Child, ฿50

As the country’s main transportation hub, Bangkok offers several transfer options for day trips to neighboring towns and cities. Here are just some of the favorite day trip destinations from Bangkok.

Situated about 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, Pattaya is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Thailand. Lying on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, it is known for its beaches, island-hopping tours, and nightlife.

From a quiet fishing village in the 1960s, Pattaya has evolved into a popular resort city with its shores now fringed with resorts, shopping malls, condo buildings, bars, and clubs. The wild party scene initially drew tourists to this coastal city. But the continuous improvement of the beach areas has gradually turned Pattaya into a more family-friendly destination today.

Swimming, beach bumming, windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, and snorkeling are the usual activities here. But you can also experience extreme sports like skydiving, bungee jumping, go-karting, and playing paintball. If you want to go beyond the shores, you can go island hopping to nearby islands like Koh Larn, Koh Sak, and Koh Krok.

Some notable attractions are Pattaya Beach, Walking Street, Phra Tamnak Hill, Pattaya Viewpoint, Wat Phra Yai Temple, and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES & RESERVE HERE!

One of the islands dotting the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Larn (Ko Lan) is the most popular island hopping destination from Pattaya. It is the largest among the three “near islands”; the other two are Koh Krok and Koh Sak.

It features white sandy beaches, which mostly lie on the western coast. The most famous is Tawaen Beach, which is lined with shops and restaurants. Other major beaches are Samae Beach, Tonglang Beach, Tien Beach, and Naon Beach. Relish the sand, sun, and sea. You can also rent a clear kayak, snorkel, or just appreciate the relaxing atmosphere.

The lush hilly island houses a Buddhist shrine atop its highest point, which is 180 meters above sea level. It also provides several viewpoints where tourists can enjoy the picturesque surroundings and nearby islands. The villages of Ban Ko Lan and Ban Krok Makhan provide lodging and dining options.

Jump-Off Point: Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier How to Get to Koh Larn: When you finally arrive in Pattaya, take the public ferry to Koh Larn. The travel duration is about 40 minutes and the fare is ฿30 per person. You can also reach the island via speedboat or boat tours.

For Koh Larn Tour and transfers, you can check the package options offered by Klook.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Situated about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya used to be an affluent trading port city from the 14th century until the second half of the 18th century when the Burmese ransacked the city. As the former capital of Thailand (Kingdom of Siam), its former glory is still visible to this day through the old city ruins, thanks to the restoration and preservation efforts.

The key attraction is the Ayutthaya Historical Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. It is an archaeological and historical treasure trove at the heart of the city. Nestled on an island encircled by three rivers — Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Klong Khu Mueang, the park cradles the ruins of the old city including temples, palaces, monasteries, and statues.

Covering an area of 289 hectares, it houses four major temples: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. The architecture reflects an interesting mixture of early Sukhotai and Khmer styles. The park was declared

Jump-Off Point: Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus or Minivan) and Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Ayutthaya: By bus or minivan, go to Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal and get on a bus or a minivan to Ayutthaya. The travel time is about two hours. The fare is ฿50-60 for the bus and ฿70 for the minivan. By train, go to Hua Lamphon Station and purchase your train ticket to Ayutthaya Station. The travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train type. A third-class ticket is ฿20 (non-aircon and random seat), while a first-class ticket is ฿330 (air-conditioned and with seat assignment).

You can join a guided tour from Klook if you want a hassle-free transfer.

The Erawan Museum is known for its gigantic bronze three-headed elephant statue, greeting visitors as they pass the gates. The statue is prominent even from afar. As you get closer, it gets more intimidating.

The museum displays artifacts collected by its founder, Mr. Lek Viriyaphant, who is also the brain behind the Ancient Siam Heritage Park. The first floor showcases the museum’s history and a collection of Chinese vases from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The second floor features the statue of Guanyin and displays antiques, ceramics, and other European pottery items. The third floor, which is located in the belly of the massive elephant statue hosts several relics and statues of Buddha.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule may change, so check the updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿400; Child (6-14 y/o), ฿200; Children below 6y/o, FREE Location: 99/9 Mu 1, Sukhumvit Sai Kao Road, Mueang Samut Prakan, Samut Prakan Jump-Off Point: Pu Chao BTS Station or Chang Erawan BTS Station How to Get to Erawan Museum: If you want to take a taxi, get off at Pu Chao Station. If it’s okay for you to travel on foot, you can either get off at Pu Chao or Chang Erawan Station. The museum is located between these two stations. By bus, you can take Bus No. 25, 142, 365 (non-aircon) or 102, 507, 511, and 536 (air-conditioned).

You can get discounted rates for the Erawan Museum tour via Klook. You can also score a combo ticket deal for Erawan Museum-Ancient Siam Tour.

Ancient City/Ancient Siam

Officially opened in February 1972, the Ancient City is an expansive cultural park that showcases the historical and significant structures of both ancient and present-day Thailand (formerly called Siam). Encompassing a total area of 320 hectares, it is recognized as the largest outdoor museum in the world.

This open-air museum features replicas of the nation’s prominent landmarks such as palaces, temples, monuments, and statues, providing visitors a glimpse of most of Thailand’s key tourist attractions!

Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿700; Child (6-14 y/o), ฿350; Children below 6y/o, FREE Location: 963 Sukhumvit Road, Mueang Samut Prakan, Samut Prakan Jump-Off Point: Kheha BTS Station How to Get to Ancient Siam: Ride the BTS Skytrain all the way to Kheha Station (Sukhumvit Line). From the station, you can either take songthaew (local pick-up truck with seats) number 36. By bus, take Bus No. 511 (Saitai Mai-Pak Nam) and alight at the last bus stop. Then, take songthaew number 36 to Ancient Siam.

You can also get discounted tickets for the Ancient Siam Tour only or get a combo ticket deal for the Erawan Museum-Ancient Siam Tour via Klook.

Kanchanaburi

Located over 120 kilometers west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is renowned for its cool climate, limestone caves, waterfalls, and thickly forested national parks. It attracts nature lovers who either visit on a day trip or for a few days to explore the beautiful countryside.

Kanchanaburi City is the usual base or jump-off point to the natural, cultural, and historical attractions the province offers. It is a picturesque resort town located at the junction of the Khwae Noi, Khwae Yai, and Maeklong rivers. Tourists usually flock to the riverside area to take in the cozy environment while sipping a drink, munching on snacks, or chilling in a raft house.

Some of the popular activities here are trekking, hiking, white water rafting, and chasing waterfalls. The key tourist spots are the following:

• Water Reservoirs. Srinakharin Dam, Vajiralongkorn Dam
• Waterfalls. Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, 7-tiered Erawan Waterfall
• National Parks. Erawan National Park, Thong Pha Phum National Park, Khao Laem National Park, Sai Yok National Park, Khuean Srinagarindra National Park, Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park
• Historical Sites. Mon Bridge, Mueang Sing Historical Park, Three Pagodas Pass, Wat Wang Wiwekaram, Underwater City, the Bridge of the River Kwae, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, World War II museum and Art Gallery

Jump-Off Point: Thon Buri Railway Station (Train) and Mochit or Southern Bus Terminal (Bus/Minivan) How to Get to Kanchanaburi: By train, go to Thon Buri Station and take the train to Kanchanaburi Station. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The fare is ฿100. By bus, go to either Mo Chit or Southern Bus Terminal, then board a bus bound for Kananchaburi. The travel time is about three hours. The fare is ฿75-300, depending on the ticket class. If you are taking the minivan, the fare is 150-160 per person per way.

If you want to travel conveniently between Bangkok and Kanchanaburi, you can just join a tour. Here are some options from Klook:

✅ BOOK ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK KANCHANABURI HIGHLIGHTS TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK AMAZING KANCHANABURI TOUR HERE!

The sky is the limit for adrenaline junkies out there who have no problem freefalling from a plane and admiring the view from above! If this is your thing, you can reserve your slot via Klook!

Choose the package that suits your preference. The most basic package covers a Customized Skydiving Certificate, skydiving at 13,000 feet, 15-minute sightseeing flight, a 60-second freefall jump, parachute flying, and Skydive Thailand Souvenirs.

✅ CHECK RATES & DETAILS HERE!

KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA

If you are planning to explore both Bangkok and Pattaya attractions, you might want to get a KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA, which will allow you to get up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation. It will also let you access 2, 3, or 4 activities! You can choose from any of these attractions:

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floaring Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK OPTIONS & GET PASS HERE!

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

TOP BANGKOK HOTELS

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

If you’re working with a limited budget, here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that are more affordable:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

Written by: Asta Alvarez Additional words: by Yosh Dimen Photos by: Yosh Dimen

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Amazing tips, I truly love Bangkok and there are so many things to do. Happy to find this blog.

The floating market is one of the top highlights for me. Tourist scams are so common in such popular areas. It would be helpful if you could please share some tips to escape the trap.

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79 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Bangkok

• 23 Pinterest

reAdorned by luscious natural scapes, while simultaneously centered in a beautiful urban landscape, crisscrossed by large and small rivers and canals, Bangkok is a must-visit destination for everyone looking for something a little outside the box.

From its fabulous floating markets to its stunning architectural works of art intermixing modern design and traditional influence, Bangkok is a breath of fresh air and a destination to visit at least once in your lifetime.

Let’s explore fun and unusual things to do in Bangkok to plan your next trip!

1 – Savor the flavors of Bangkok on a food tour

Known for its abundance of fresh vegetables, savory and sweet flavors in one bite, and joyful experience of communal eating, Thai cuisine is a foodie’s paradise that must be explored while visiting Bangkok.

Explore the culinary world of Thai cuisine, and book a food tour with some local food experts who will take you through a flavorful journey of the best that Bangkok has to offer. From local favorites like Guay Tiew Kua Gai (Thai rice noodles with chicken), Tom Yum Soup with Coconut Milk, Thai Green Curry, and of course, Pad Thai.

Enjoy a wide variety of exotic fruits from rambutan, mangosteen, and Durian, popular amongst Thai people. Enjoy mangoes, papayas, dragonfruit, guava, and more tropical fruits that are so fresh it makes them taste exotic.

• food tours in Bangkok

2 – Get a birds-eye view of Bangkok from Baiyoke Sky

Baiyoke Sky is a hotel with an observation deck located in the heart of downtown Bangkok where glamour meets hospitality and stunning panoramic views of the city.

Built in 1990, Bangkok’s Baiyoke Sky has risen into popularity due to its size (it’s the tallest hotel in Thailand to date), incredible hospitality, delectable buffets and restaurants, and offering ultra-luxury to its guests.

Whether you’re booking a room and staying for a while, or you’re stepping in for dinner or happy hour, enjoy sweeping views of Bangkok’s urban landscape by booking a visit to the observation deck.

Purchase your tickets ahead of time, and reserve your spot to view one of the best and most unique views of Bangkok.

• Baiyoke Sky observation deck tickets

3 – Buy and try local fruits at the Floating Markets of Damnoen Saduak

Feast your eyes on a unique floating market, where merchants row through canal waters on their fully stocked boats, to sell fruit to locals and visitors on their boats.

The floating market has been a favorite travel destination, growing increasingly in popularity since the 1970s.

People from all over the world flock to the floating market of Damnoen Saduak to catch a glimpse of the fun, chaotic scene of commerce, color, exotic fruits and foods, and more.

Located 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, book a canal boat tour through the floating market of Damnoen Saduak, with local experts, transportation, and an unforgettable and up-close look and one of the most unique and best things to do in Bangkok.

• Damnoen Saduak floating market tours

4 – Explore Chinatown

Located a short journey away from Bangkok city center, and considered to be the largest Chinatown in the world, Thailand’s own Chinatown is a remarkable place to visit while visiting Bangkok.

Dating to the wave of immigration of Chinese into Southeast Asia back in the 1800s, settling and intermingling cultures with the Thai people, today visitors can get a piece of the fusion between cultures, food, and top experiences while walking the streets of China town.

Brimming with Chinese/Indian/Thai culture, visit Yaowarat Road where China town takes up a large area dedicated to the best Chinese food and seafood specialties like stir-fried crab and shrimp.

Discover specialty markets, and amazing bars like River Vibe Restaurant Bar, which offers patrons beautiful views of nearby rivers.

• Chinatown tours

5 – Be amazed by the architecture of the Royal Grand Palace

Considered to be the city’s biggest attraction, a visit to the Royal Grand Palace is one of the best things to see in Bangkok while visiting.

A palace with heavy importance, from being the residence of Thai Royalty in 1782, to now being a holy space for Buddhism, the Royal Grand Palace’s gold spire and ornate architecture calls out to more than one person, as an attraction to explore.

Book a tour to get the most immersive, knowledgeable experience, and learn about the rich history of the Grand Palace Hall called Chakri Mahaprasat, take in the sights of the architecture, and get an explanation for its Thai design.

Take your time to learn the purpose the temple has served in history, and what it symbolizes today.

• Grand Palace tours

6 – Enjoy views of Bangkok on a sightseeing boat tour

Adding a sightseeing boat tour to your list of best things to do in Bangkok is an absolute must!

Various rivers, which date back to the city’s beginnings, and are used throughout history for trade and commerce, today, offer visitors a unique view of the city from its waterways.

With a variety of rivers, some stretching across the city like Chao Phraya and the Klong Saen Saeb, and a myriad of connecting canals on the Klongs of Thonburi connecting various provinces and neighborhoods together, a boat tour of the canals of Bangkok is an amazing way to experience and learn more about this important natural resource in the city.

Choose from water taxis to canal boats, and private cruises, each offering a unique experience.

• boat tours in Bangkok

See also: Bangkok Boat Tours – Which one is Best?

7 – Learn about the interesting Maeklong Railway market

Possibly one of the most unique experiences to do in the world, and in Bangkok, is a visit to the Maeklong Railaway Market, located in the province of Samut Songkhram.

Dating back to 1905, there was a railroad that was constructed right in the middle of what used to be a normal market, where fishermen would sell their catch of the day (today this is still the case).  However after the railroads were constructed through the market, the people decided to keep the market going, but with a twist.

Today, visitors can get to this unique market by Skytrain or car, and they’ll be able to walk the market, where they’ll find stands and stalls selling food, goods, fruits, and a railroad running across.

• Maeklong Railway market tours

Hot tip: The best day trips from Bangkok  include a visit to the Maeklong Railway Market, an extraordinary market on active train tracks offering a thrilling shopping experience.

8 – Check out Bangkok on a Bike tour

A bike tour is always a fun way to discover a new city and one of the best outdoor activity in Bangkok especially.

Hop on a bike tour, and explore the nooks and corners of the city, as you’re being told more about the history of the districts, neighborhoods, streets, and buildings.

Get an idea of the different architectural styles, and ask your local guide to point out recommended places to eat along the way.

Explore the city and its narrow and winding streets on a bike tour, or explore its beautiful, green natural corners, that pass through local markets, food vendors, and different canals that one can only see on a bike. Be sure to book your tour ahead of time!

• bike tours in Bangkok

9 – Take a photo with your favorite *wax* celebrity at Madame Tussauds

Looking to meet and take your picture with your favorite celebrity in Bangkok?

Consider a visit to Madame Tussauds – a museum that houses life-size replicas of famous world figures from American movie actors like Bruce Willis, to the Obamas and the English Royal Family.

Built in 2010, and with other museums located around the world, Madame Tussauds opened its doors in Bangkok and welcomed locals and visitors to experience a unique and fun experience from amazing man-made wax figurines of world figures.

Divided up into different sections: musicians, historical figures, actors, sports athletes, and movie characters,  Take your time to take a peek at the details in each wax figure, and of course, snap your picture next to your favorite celebrity.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

10 – Visit Thailand’s first Thai massage university at Reclining Buddha Wat Pho

Commonly known as Bangkok’s Temple of the Reclining Buddha, this site has become a hot spot for many travelers visiting Bangkok for many reasons, one of them being its sheer beauty.

Dating back to its construction in 1832, the Reclining Buddha Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s most beautiful and oldest temple complexes that house over 1,000 images of Buddha (more than any other temple in Thailand) including the biggest Buddha in Thailand.

This site is known to also be the place where the first public university in Thailand was formed, which was to teach Thai Massage. A practice that is still going on strong today.

Take a tour of the grounds, and learn about the meaning of the architecture, and the importance it has today.

• Wat Pho tours

Hot tip: Check out our 3 Days Bangkok Itinerary for the ultimate guide to exploring this vibrant city!

11 – Take a peek at Thai Royal Life at Bang Pa-in Summer Palace

Dating to its original construction in 1632, the Bang Pa-in Summer Palace was the summer residence of the Thai Kings. Making up one of the 19 total Royal Palaces in Bangkok, visitors will get to experience for themselves the luxuries that the Thai Royalty lived with.

Sitting beside the Chao Phraya River, the Palace has a quiet, tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect site to visit to have a moment to truly admire the beauty of the natural scene around. When visiting palaces like Ban Pa-in Summer Palace and religious sites, always take into consideration the dress code, as some rules must be followed when entering the palace.

Get an inclusive experience and learn about life in the Bang Pa-in Summer Palace, by booking a tour.

• Bang Pa-in Summer Palace tours

12 – Explore the fascinating site and culture of Ayutthaya

A current UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfect example of an 18th-century urban city equipped with trade, commerce, and diplomacy, a day trip to Ayutthaya must be on your BKK bucket.

Dating back to its finding in 1350, this important Thai site located on an island showcases Ayutthayan culture through its ruins still visible today, Buddhist monasteries, and ornate architecture, which today according to many historians, is a prime example of the civilization’s economic power and rank.

To visit this unmissable sight, there are many trains that visitors can take from Bangkok’s Hualamphong train station. Book a tour ahead of time for the ultimate learning experience.

• Ayutthaya day trips from Bangkok

13 – Live out your Thai culinary dreams by taking a cooking class

Thailand is one of the countries in the world with the freshest ingredients, from fruits to vegetables, fish, and more, a cooking class is definitely a must-do activity while in Bangkok.

Cook alongside cooking professionals and locals at cooking schools, and get your hands a little dirty as you prepare traditional Thai dishes like Massaman Curry, Yam Nua (Beef Salad), Kway Teow (noodle soup), and more.

Take a cooking class at Blue Elephant Cooking School and restaurant, and live out your Thai culinary dreams, as you cook with professional chefs in any language of your desire, in a group or privately, and in state-of-the-art professional kitchens.

• cooking classes in Bangkok

14 – See the three-headed elephant at the Erawan Museum

A 25-30 minute drive from the city center of Bangkok, Erawan Museum is a collection museum housing numerous pieces owned by Lek Viriyapant, a Thai businessman who reinvested some of his wealth to build cultural sites like the Erawan Museum.

His wish was to find a place to store all of his precious pieces and to gift them to his country for generations to come to learn.

Visit the three-headed elephant statue that was created based on the figure of Airavata, a creature in Hindu mythology. The symbolism behind the famous statue is of protection of the world, and the important things in it.

Make sure to book a tour to get a deep explanation of the multiple pieces inside, and about the collector himself.

• Erawan Museum tickets & tours

15 – Learn about the important Thai silk industry at Jim Thompson’s house

Cultural buffs will not want to miss the interesting fusion of American and Thai influences at Jim Thompson’s House – a former residence turned museum of Jim Thompson, an American-born, Thai businessman, and architect.

Experience the elegance and tranquility that the property offers guests, as visitors take in the Thai-wooden style architecture, surrounded by lush greenery and canals. Once inside, visitors can find a collection of Asian-influenced art pieces and exhibits that belonged to Mr. Thompson himself. Jim Thompson is commonly known as the “Thai Silk King” for being the one who saved Thailand’s important silk industry from extinction.

Located centrally in downtown Bangkok, this makes for a perfect afternoon activity and one not to miss while visiting Bangkok.

• Jim Thompson’s house tours

16 – Dive into Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium at Sea Life Ocean World

Unleash the inner child within, and get excited to explore the wonderful world of the sea at the biggest aquarium in all of Southeast Asia – Sea Life Ocean World in Bangkok.

This aquarium located in the city center of Bangkok, is a sea lover’s dream, as visitors can check out a grand variety of sea life from Thailand and the world, as well take advantage of the different activities offered at Sea Life Ocean World to learn more about the different species of the sea.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid any issues at the door. If you’re interested in special activities like the Shark Dive and Beyond the Surface, make sure to buy those entrances separately.

• Sea Life Ocean World tickets

17 – Escape into the nature in Kanchanaburi

Tour pieces of Thai history, and move through natural beauty at Kanchanaburi – a province 130 kilometers west of Bangkok city center. Known famously for the Death Railway Bridge, a bridge constructed back in the times of WWII, visitors will gain a new view of Thai history.

Visit the Erawan National Park to relish in all the natural abundance from dramatic waterfalls, fish spas, hiking, and amazing bird watching, or visit Sai Yok Nai Waterfalls some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area, that fall down a limestone rock.

Visit an elephant sanctuary, and offer your service to the care of elephants alongside workers and volunteers. Make sure to check out day-trip itineraries and tours, so you can make your way out to Kanchanaburi.

• Kanchanaburi day trips from Bangkok

18 – Visit the site of war history at the Thai-Burma Death Railway Bridge

Possibly one of the most well-known sites to visit in Kanchanaburi has to go to the Thai-Burma Death Railway Bridge, which was originally constructed by the Japanese during WWll.

The Japanese invasion which prompted the construction of this bridge, unfortunately, costs the lives of soldiers, prisoners of war, and innocent people. Today, this landmark symbolizes a somber and very real event that happens in Thailand.

Make sure to check out the Death Railway Museum to get educated on the construction of the railway, and more historical artifacts.

Visit Hellfire Pass Museum to get a unique museum experience, where visitors walk through the rocky grounds where the prisoners of war would have worked for up to 18 hours a day.

• Thai-Burma Death Railway Bridge tours

19 – Zip through Bangkok on a Tuk-tuk tour

Truly a Tuk-tuk tour zipping by some of the most emblematic sites of the city is one of the best ways to see a lot in a short amount of time, as well as get a local experience of riding an actual Tuk-tuk.

Whether it’s a night tuk-tuk tour, passing by all the amazing street food stands, or it’s a day tour taking you through sites such as the Wat Pho, Wat Prayurawongsawat, or flower markets, a tuk-tuk tour will undoubtedly take you not only to these amazing sites but also take you in true Thai style.

Make sure to check out some of the best tuk-tuk tours here, and book ahead of time for easier planning.

• tuk-tuk tours in Bangkok

20 – Catch sight of the radiant sun at Wat Arun

Unquestionably one of the best things to do in Bangkok is to visit the Temple of Dawn, also known locally as Wat Arun, which is located on the western edge of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

The Buddhist temple is named after the Hindu God Aruna, which much like the other name it goes after (Temple of Dawn) means the beauty of the rising sun.

Famous for its stunning views of the temple complex, the river, and the city, make it worth the steep climb, so be sure to come prepared to climb a few steps.

Make sure to also check the dress code when planning a trip not only to this temple but to most temples in Bangkok. Conservative dress, covering arms and legs.

• Wat Arun tours

21 – Take a glimpse of the wild side of Bangkok at Safari World

Opened in 1988, and stretching around 480 acres of land, Safari World takes visitors through a guided journey showcasing the best and diversity of animal wildlife in Thailand.

From sea life to land, explore the living wonders that Thailand has at Safari World.

Split into two parks, guests will have the opportunity to explore different wildlife called: Marine Park and Safari World.

While visiting, check out the amazing performances put on by the parks, from themed shows like the Wild West to animal performances, and more. There is something for everyone at Safari World.

• Safari World tickets

22 – Take a dip in the water and swim with elephants

Experience the gentleness of one of the most peaceful animals on the planet while visiting an Elephant Sanctuary on a day trip.

Be of service and join the amazing work being performed by staff and volunteers in feeding, playing with, and caring for the elephants.

Learn more about the efforts created at the sanctuaries, their purpose, and their goals in helping preserve the elephant species as a whole.

• elephant Sanctuary tickets

23 – Discover your new favorite dish at Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

Known for its beautiful canals surrounded by lush gardens, and the abundance of food options, a visit to Khlong Lat Mayom floating market is a must for market and food lovers alike.

Walk around the market, scout for dishes you’d like to try, and then look for a seat as it tends to get pretty full. Amongst some of the best dishes to try at the market are Pla pao which is a salt-crusted fish, Goong ob woon sen which is flavorful mungbean noodles with shrimp, and way more amazing dishes.

Make sure to come with an empty stomach!

• Khlong Lat Mayom tours

24 – Walk the glass walkway on the 78th floor of the Mahanakhon SkyWalk Observation Deck

Coming in around 79 floors, the Mahanakhon SkyWalk Observation Deck is without a doubt, one of the best views of Bangkok.

Although there are many competitive places that could also offer incredible sky-high views of the city, and the rivers crossing nearby, the Mahanakhon SkyWalk Observation Deck is the place to be due to its thrilling glass floor on the 78th floor.

Adrenaline seekers will be able to see not only sweeping views around the building but underneath as visitors walk the glass floor.

Go during sunset time to catch the ultimate golden hour in the Thai skies, and afterward, catch dinner at one of its many eateries inside the observation deck.

• Mahanakhon SkyWalk tickets

25 – Take in history and peace at Golden Buddha Wat Traimit

Well known to the Thai people as Phra Sukhothai Traimit, the Golden Buddha Wat Traimit is the visual of a statue representing a golden structure seated in a relaxed, meditative manner, located in the temple of Wat Traimit, and weighing 5.5 tonnes.

While visiting the Golden Buddha Wat Traimit, make sure to also learn about the fascinating history of the Golden Buddha inside the museum located on the 3rd floor, as well as the interesting story behind its creation.

Lastly, spend some time walking and admiring the architecture and powerful gold details.

• Golden Buddha Wat Traimit tours

26 – Walk your way into Thai and Bangkok history at the Bangkok National Museum

Once the home of the Vice King in 1887, and today rebirthed into the home of Thai art and history, the Bangkok National Museum is a historian and artist’s dream come true, as it is considered to be the largest museum in Southeast Asia.

Known as the first museum in Thailand, with an evergrowing collection of various historical pieces and relics, visitors will be able to experience anthropological and archaeological exhibits showing from pre-historic life in Thailand, up to the day-to-day life during the reigns of different Kings.

Amazing in every way, a visit to the Bangkok National Museum is a great way to gain insight into Thailand’s culture, and history, which is a great way to gain an appreciation of the city.

27 – Seek thrills and adrenaline at Dream World

Prepare for the ride of your life as you venture onto Dream World – Bangkok’s version of Disney World. Located just north of downtown Bangkok 40 minutes away, it is a thrilling amusement park that welcomes visitors of all ages.

Divided into 4 sections: Dream World Plaza, Dream Gardens, Fantasy Land, and Adventure Land, each section is sure to offer something for everyone.

If you’re traveling with young children, the most ideal section to visit is Fantasy Land, whereas Adventure Land is the section that is calling out to all adrenaline junkies.

• Dream World tickets

28 – Visit Thailand’s biggest market at Chatuchak Weekend Market

Thailand is undoubtedly known for many things, one of those being its wide choice of markets from flowers, to merchandise, to food, and more. Chatuchak Weekend Market is the place where you can get it all under one roof, and in one go.

Known as Thailand’s largest market, with 15,000 booths, and 200,000 estimated visitors per weekend, it’s surely a hot spot to check out at least once to experience the colorful chaos and magic that loom through its market stalls.

Everything from food and drinks, to home decor and art, soap, gifts for family and friends, and more can be found inside its walls.

29 – Discover Thailand’s original capital city of Thonburi

Originally the capital city of Thailand in 1768, today Thonburi is one of the districts that make up the modern capital of Bangkok.

A quieter setting than its other neighboring districts, Thonburi is a site to see for various reasons, such as to see some of the monuments and buildings constructed in the once capital city, for protection against attackers.

One of the most popular sites to visit has to be Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) for its beautiful architecture, as well as Wat Kalayanamit, which is a 200-year-old religious building open to the public that is less crowded than Wat Arun.

To experience more of the city, and explore hidden corners of Thonburi, definitely consider booking a tour with a local.

• Thonburi tours

30 – Catch a city break at Lumphini Park

A haven for nature lovers located right in the middle of Bangkok lies Lumphini Park, in which the word Lumphini is Thai for the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal.

Many visitors like to take a break from the hectic city for a bit of a breather whether it’s sitting on a bench taking in the luscious garden views or walking the tree-lined paths.

On many occasions, visitors can expect to find different events held at the park, from music festivals to food festivals.

While visiting Lumphini Park, make sure to also check out some of the monuments inside such as the King Rama Vl Monument, symbolizing his declaration of the opening of the first public park.

31 – Shop til you drop at Thailand’s biggest shopping mall CentralwOrld

Looking to shop till you drop?

Check out CentralwOrld for world-class shopping, from some of the most globally known brands all over the world, including the 2nd biggest H&M in the world.

Known locally as a massive shopping center and complex, CentralwOrld was originally opened in 1990 and is the 11th largest shopping center in the world and the largest in Southeast Asia.

This famous shopping mall houses some of the best shopping, eateries, bakeries, 5-star hotels, cinemas, ice rinks, arcades, and generally, a great space to meet up with friends and family for an afternoon.

32 – Indulge in fun water activities at Nakhon Nayok

Located in central Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is the ideal destination for nature lovers from many different activities to choose from, such as checking out the stellar waterfalls and indulging in the tropical abundance of fruits, as well as some of the best outdoor activities.

Check out the attractive Khao Yai National Park, a nature lover’s wonderland, offering a close-up of Thailand’s quaint nature and views of wild animals in their habitat.

Check out waterfalls like Nang Rong and Sarika, which gifts visitors with a refreshing site and splash after a hike around the park.

Speaking of a splash, while visiting Nakhon Nayok, if you’re looking for some water fun, then definitely check out water activities like rafting, kayaking, and windsurfing at Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam.

• Nakhon Nayok day trips from Bangkok

33 – Visit the Sirimahannop tall ship at Asiatique

The Sirimahannop tall ship is a modern-day ship that was built to honor in part the Thoon Kramom – a ship that was responsible for trading from the west to the Kingdom of Siam.

Today, visitors are able to step back in time and enter the museum located inside Asiatique which houses art pieces and relics that showcase Asian and Thai history and culture throughout time, especially relating to Siam trading and civilization.

Stay for a while and have dinner at the lovely and elegant bar and restaurant that offers chef-inspired and prepared dishes and drinks to satisfy every visitor’s craving.

34 – Get inspired at Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

A center where music, art, and culture, all coincide for a wonderful experience for visitors and locals to enjoy.

The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre is a site where events are often held such as musical and cultural performances, literature readings, and other special projects that invite guests to witness and participate in.

Take an afternoon to step in, and enjoy the People’s Gallery – a gallery where artists and intellectuals perform expose’s on their art and latest works.

Check out the expansive library, and other education services while there.

The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre’s mission, amongst many, is to provide, inspire, and promote the love of art, culture, and education, in order to nurture new ideas and inspiration.

35 – Contemplate the beauty of Bangkok at night on a dinner boat tour

Looking for something a bit more on the romantic side? Discover the lovely sights of architecture, and take in the gorgeous sights of the city at night, from the Chaophraya River .

Check out a dinner boat tour that runs along the Chaophraya River, and indulge in Thai cuisine coupled with incredible attention and hospitality, and the moment.

It is an ideal and unique experience to see the city not only by night but also from one of the famous rivers crossing Bangkok.

Book your dinner boat experience ahead of time in order to avoid any issues, and enjoy the experience.

• dinner boat tours in Bangkok

36 – Visit Thailand’s biggest clothing market, Pratunam Market

Running 24 hours a day, Pratunam Market is a chaotic and impressive clothing market known as the largest clothing market in Thailand, offering everything from traditional Thai dress, to tourist-type t-shirts, and everything in between.

Considering it is Thailand’s biggest clothing market, make sure to brace for large swamps of people crowding the many clothing stalls.

Even though the market itself is open 24 hours, not every stall will be open the same way.

The best recommendation is that if you want to avoid crowds, go before 11 am. It’s definitely one of the most interesting and best things to do in Bangkok and a place to visit at least once in your lifetime.

37 – Educate yourself on Thai culture at Museum Siam

A beautiful neo-classical style building, the interior of the Museum Siam is home to various creative mediums – art, history, music, dress, and other tangible cultural pieces that are displayed to showcase and teach not only visitors but for locals about Thailand.

Created originally to be a space to teach Thai people about their own culture, today, Museum Siam welcomes people from all over the world, near and far, to take their sweet time educating themselves on Thai history and culture.

It has 14 rooms inside, and it is designed for visitors to explore on their own.

Prepare to spend 1-3 hours, depending on how deeply you want to go into Thai culture and history.

38 – Visit Wat Benchamabophit aka “The Marble Palace”

The Wat Benchamabophit is bound to enamor visiting architects and spike the attention of visitors, as one of the main temples, located in the Dusit district in Bangkok.

An interesting mix of European elements mixed with Thai design, the Wat Benchamabophit is an exquisite site to visit and spend some time to take in not only the architecture but its surroundings.

It is oftentimes referred to as “The Marble Palace” for the extensive amount of marble found in its facade.

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, and it is recommended to do so in order to gain easier access to this monumental point of interest for many travelers.

• Wat Benchamabophit

39 – Frolic through the Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market

Check out the abundance of beautiful flowers, both known and exotic to the visitor, and local to the fertile lands of Thailand. Known by natives as a “place of symbolic value” and originally starting as a floating market.

Visitors will allow their sense of scent to take over, as they step into the market, and take a look at the flower-lined hallways of the market.

Aside from an innumerable amount of flowers, visitors can also expect heaps of fruit, herbal plants, and vegetables for sale as well.

While it’s not exactly considered a tourist attraction, it is still visited by more than a few nature and flower lovers, and it is also a great place to observe locals in their element, and people watching.

40 – Learn about Victory Monument and its great significance

Serving as a symbol of triumph for the Thai people over the Franco-Thai war of 1940, this monument was constructed in the center of Bangkok to symbolize Thailand’s win in this war.

Surrounding the monument are five statues, each representing the navy, air force, militia, and police. Nearby today, you will find many different buildings, from shopping malls and cinemas to parks and museums, and surrounded by busy streets.

While visiting it will be a little tricky, as it’s not located on a quiet street, or a street easily walkable, it’s still a sight that you can still visit as well as check out some of the other surrounding sites such as Bangkok’s largest duty-free mall King Power.

41 – Venture into the world of military aircraft at the Royal Thai Air Force Museum

One of the interesting and best things to do in Bangkok, especially if you’re an aviation fan, is to check out the Royal Thai Air Force Museum , which is a museum that stores some of the most notable and unique aircraft created and designed in Thailand for war purposes.

Many of the aircraft shown in the museum range from fighter jets, military transport, helicopters, and other military aircraft.

The museum is divided into 5 buildings, each showcasing a specific type grade of planes and helicopters used for military purposes.

Check out some of the buildings inside, some of which store unique aircraft that are the last of their kind, tools used in military aircraft, aircraft of high caliber used in war, and more.

42 – Browse through pieces of art that belonged to Thai Royalty at the Museum of Contemporary Art

If art museums are more of your speed, definitely consider checking out MOCA Bangkok – Museum of Contemporary Arts, to browse through the collections of global pieces, as well as examples of Thai art.

Privately owned by Thai businessman Boonchai Bencharongkul, MOCA Bangkok came to be a physical museum of appreciation and honor for King Rama 9 as he was known to be the “Father of Thai Contemporary art”.

The museum offers a unique collection of art previously owned by kings, and pieces originating from ancient temples and other holy spaces.

The museum building itself is a piece of art, as visitors will see when they set foot on the grounds. Detailed carvings, flower-like structures, and ornate features can be admired.

43 – Get a moment of peace inside the Wat Suthat Thepwararam

Making up one of the ten temples in Bangkok, Wat Suthat Thepwararam is a temple that was built by King Rama l in 1807.

A site of ultimate tranquility, respect, and honor, visitors can expect to visit to walk into a religious temple full of details from the beautiful murals on the walls of the hallways, to the high ceilings showing the shape of the roof’s exterior, and more.

Step in and observe the 120+ images of Buddha adorning the prayer halls, and simply enjoy the space respectfully and its rich religious history that is very much part of Thailand’s culture.

44 – Plan a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Khao Yai National Park

Named Thailand’s first official National Park in 1962, Khao Yai National Park is a destination perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Brimming with botanical beauty, Khao Yai National Park is home to the largest intact monsoon forests in Asia, as well as other natural wonders.

Khao Yai National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a destination to go on a hike and see everything from majestic waterfalls, stunning mountains, and some incredible wildlife.

Getting to Khao Yai National Park may be a little difficult with public transportation, however booking a tour with transportation is a really good alternative for those visitors who want to make a day trip to the national park, or rent a car and drive yourself.

• Khao Yai National Park tours

45 – Discover pre-historical Thai artifacts at Vimanmek Mansion

Located in the Dusit district of Bangkok is Vimanmek Mansion, a royal palace that dates back to 1897, and is designed in the style of Victorian architecture.

Originally used as a residence, it, later on, fell forgotten until the 80’s when the Queen of England visited and decided to turn the palace into a museum.

Today, visitors can visit Vimanmek Mansion which stores pre-historical Thai artifacts, as well as art pieces and photography.

It is recommended to allow yourself at least half a day to see every piece inside if that is what you would like to do. Due to its growing size in popularity, tour groups may be present, so it is recommended to visit early in the day.

46 – Rent a bike and explore Chatuchak Park

A perfect place to relax and unwind is Chatuchak Park, located at the intersection of Phahonyothin and Vibhavadi Rangsit roads, in the heart of downtown Bangkok.

Once inside, visitors can gaze at the nine pieces of ASEAN sculptures, which are beautiful, abstract structures, as well as a wonderful place to people watch, and experience what daily life is like for the locals.

It’s an ideal breath of fresh air, especially after a day of sightseeing all over the city, or if you’re up for some exercise, rent a bike and ride along its paths while you take in the beauty of the park and green space.

47 – Zip your way through Bangkok on an electric scooter tour

Maybe not fast and furious, but definitely the fast and fun – that is what renting an electric scooter in Bangkok is like.

See more while you have fun, as you speed through some of Bangkok’s most famous sites as well as different corners of the city that other travelers may miss.

Choose from a variety of different scooter tours, from night tours to street art tours, to even jungle tours.

Feel the wind in your hair, and the excitement pump through your system, as you safely tour the city in a unique way with a local guide.

• scooter tours in Bangkok

48 – Find some funky items at Srinagarindra Train Night Market

Another incredibly unique market is Srinagarindra Train Night Market, which is a famous market that sells a variety of items gently used items that are often seen as funky or retro like furniture, clothing, cameras, instruments, and more.

Tucked away behind Seacon square and Srinakarin Road, this market is said to be so big, that visitors may need more than one night to fully experience it all, and visit its entirety.

Unfortunately due to the pandemic, the Srinagarindra Train Night Market had to close its doors to the public indefinitely, however, the same people that brought Srinagarindra Train Night Market have created a new night market called Jodd Fairs, which essentially is meant to create the same ambiance and offer funky finds as the Srinagarindra Train Night Market.

49 – Seek a thrilling adventure at Siam Amazing Park

Seek your next thrilling adventure at Siam Amazing Park, an amusement park/ aquatic park that offers the best of both worlds to people of all ages.

Choose your adventure from one of the many attractions like the Vortex, Giant Drop, and Asia’s first looping roller coaster. Check out the water park where you can hop on games like Speed Slide, the Super Spiral, and of course the Flowing Pool. Explore the 100 acres of amusement park and aquatic park including a 13,600-square-metre wave pool.

Just minutes from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, it’s an easy taxi drive away from the airport, or the city center. It’s definitely a bit of a different experience to have in Bangkok, but a fun one.

• Siam Amazing Park tickets

50 – Ask questions about the story behind The Giant Swing

Standing tall beside the Wat Suthat is The Giant Swing. Locally known as the Sao Chingcha, this monument measures around 21 meters (69 ft.) and it is today a top tourist and religious site and attraction.

It was once used during the Brahman’s Festival, which included men getting on the Giant Swing to sling themselves as high as they could in hopes of catching the bag of gold as a prize.

However this dangerous act cost the lives of a few men who attempted this act, and in 1935, the practice was terminated.

The Giant Swing has been refurbished over time, and lastly renovated in 2007, while the original one, if visitors would like, can be viewed at the Bangkok National Museum.

51 – Climb the steps up to Wat Saket

Also known as the Golden Mount, Way Saket is a Buddhist temple located in the district of Pom Prap Sattru Phai in Bangkok.

It is easily distinguishable due to its elaborate golden appearance and views from the top, gifting visitors with sweeping views of lush greenery, and the temple complex.

When visiting, guests are encouraged to bring adequate shoes to climb up the 318 steps, reaching the top. While visiting, take in the sight of beautiful gardens, wild plants, and Buddha statues, and pay close attention to the bells of Wat Saket, which are part of prayer.

Taking in the mystical and magical ambiance of Wat Saket, is without a doubt, one of the most beautiful things to see in Bangkok.

• Wat Saket tours

52 – Relax and unwind at a Thai Spa

Although many people travel to Thailand for the floating markets and the Buddhist temples, many also travel to live a Thai spa experience.

With a wide array of Thai spas all over Bangkok, visitors are sure to find one adequate for their needs. From herbal compresses to reflexology treatments, aromatherapy, and relaxing massages.

Thai massages are believed to promote overall wellbeing and physical health, from lowering stress hormones, to helping increase athletic performance.

Combined with the extreme attention to detail and professionality of the therapists, a Thai massage should definitely be a treat to indulge in during a trip to Bangkok, especially after so much sightseeing.

• spas in Bangkok

53 – Check out the lush gardens and fountain show at Benchasiri Park

Located in the Khlong Toei District of Bangkok, Benchasiri Park is a lush piece of greenery, offering natural sights of different Thai flowers and botanicals, as well as a peaceful city break for locals and travelers in the city.

Take a walk, unwind a bit, and explore the lush tree-lined paths, while glancing at the golden structures that decorate the park. Stay for the fountain show that delights the park visitors 3 times per day, and check out the lake that is home to turtles and different types of fish.

Chockful of different activities to do, visitors can even access a pool inside the park, as well as use the skateboard ramps, and outdoor exercise equipment.

54 – Grab lunch at Or Tor Kor Market

A giant indoor market sprawling over 6,500 square meters, with up to 600 food stalls the Or Tor Kor Market is an amazing place to get lunch, go inside an authentic Thai food market, and enjoy its facilities as far as customer service and cleanliness.

Walkthrough its many different sections, from organic products to vegetables, fruits, meats, and dairy.

Bringing in local products, but also imported fruits and vegetables from neighboring countries, follow your sense of smell, and come ready to enjoy different dishes and fresh produce.

55 – Check out a bird’s eye view of Bangkok with a Helicopter tour

A journey through the skies is just what every thrill-seeker needs to add to their itinerary of the best things to do in Bangkok.

Book an amazing experience and glide through the Thai skies, as you overlook the city, the rivers, the markets, temples, and more from up above.

Additional to the amazing and unique views, gain knowledge and insight from a local guide as you pass through some of the most popular sites and monuments, and learn about the city’s history and culture.

Make sure to book your tour ahead of time to ensure the best prices and easier planning. It is surely not something to be missed.

• helicopter tours in Bangkok

56 – Discover the untold story of Bangkok’s red-light district at the Patpong Museum

Patpong is a red-light district in Bangkok, and inside the Patpong Museum, visitors will get an inside look into life in the red-light district, work conditions, expectations of the workers, as well as learn about the interesting ties between this area of Bangkok and notable celebrities, US governing bodies, and American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Recounting over 100 years of history, explore the different exhibits full of archives, findings, and collections that describe more in detail the otherwise vague story of Patpong.

Learn more about what Patpong is about, and its untold secrets that go beyond the country’s borders with interactive games, re-enactment shows, and more.

• Patpong Museum tickets

57 – Enter a true shoppers world at MBK Center

Seen as one of the biggest shopping malls in Bangkok, MBK Center , visiting this shopping mall that is equipped with 8 floors, 2,000+ stores, and brands including outlet stores, as well as a huge variety of dining options, is a true shopaholics dream.

Forgetting to pack a wardrobe piece, or luggage being delayed, isn’t a big problem with malls such as MBK Center, as the mall offers world-known brands, as well as local Thai brands.

Everything from clothing, electronics, gifts, furniture, and a wide variety of activities like bowling, cinemas, video games, and more.

Located above the hotel is a 5-star hotel called Pathumwan Princess Hotel , where guests can experience a truly luxurious stay in Bangkok while living close to a world-class shopping mall.

58 – Check out Pattaya as a perfect getaway from Bangkok

Considered to be Thailand’s version of “Sin City” – Pattaya is a fun idea for a day trip from Bangkok, for those looking for a good time. Located on the east coast of Thailand, Pattaya welcomes visitors from party people to families, and nature lovers.

If the party is what you’re looking for, stay the night, and take a walk down Pattaya Walking Street, which is a street that comes to life at night, and provides visitors with an endless mix of restaurant and bar options as well as nightlife from karaoke to dancing.

Lastly, check out the magnificent Coral Island , which welcomes guests with pristine clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and an extensive seafood menu. A must-stop for beach lovers all around.

• Pattaya day trips from Bangkok

59 – Ask for a wish at the Erawan Shrine

A shrine to honor and represent the Hindu God of Creation Brahma, Phra Phrom who is the Thai version of Brahma, is seen as a 4-faced golden statue that has the devotion of many locals.

Guests who visit the Erawan Shrine will be welcomed by throngs of people (local and tourists) awaiting their chance to get a moment with Phra Phrom.

It is believed that the statue of the deity holds power when it comes to granting people’s wishes, and it has been this way since its construction in 1956, when it was built to protect the local area, including the construction of a new hotel that was to be built nearby.

60 – Walk into the most interesting art exhibitions at River City BANGKOK

River City BANGKOK offers guests some of the most extensive galleries that showcase everything from antiques and art, to music and film.

Overflowing with culture, visitors will surely get a new experience each time they visit River City BANGKOK as they are constantly rotating and creating new exhibits of interest such as anthropological exposé of life for the indigenous of the Mongolian mountains, to artist’s expression of mood through flower forms and botanicals.

As a result of its varied exhibitions, it surely makes River City BANGKOK a top site to see and one of the best things to do in Bangkok.

To get to the River City BANGKOK,  a taxi is recommended as it is the easiest and quickest form to get there.

61 – Stop and smell the flowers inside one of Suan Luang Rama IX’s beautiful gardens

Located in the Prawet District in Bangkok, Suan Luang Rama lX is an ideal spot for an escape into nature that will keep visitors a bit longer as they discover the true green splendor of this park.

Originally built to celebrate and honor King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s sixtieth birthday in 1987, today visitors can appreciate it through its many wonderful gardens, such as the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, Rockwall Garden, and more.

While visiting the Suan Luang Rama lX, make sure to check out the huge lilypads floating in the ponds of the gardens, as well as perfectly trimmed floral arrangements and stylings throughout the park.

62 – Take a funky journey into ChangChui Plane Night Market

Located near the Chaophraya River, ChangChui Plane Night Market definitely knows what it’s doing in terms of distinguishing itself apart from other night markets.

Mixing funky, trendy, and boutique, this market is not like you’re typical Thai market, as it offers more than just clothing and gifts.

Situated inside an immobile plane, the Chang Chui Plane Night Market is divided into 2 sections: an alcohol-free zone (open during the day) and a night zone (open in the evenings offering fun late-night activities).

Grab a bite to eat at a trendy restaurant inside, or grab a craft drink as you look around and imagine the creativity to build a market inside a plane.

63 – Learn self-defense techniques at a Muay Thai Class

Muay Thai is described to be a fighting technique that centers on the 8 points of contact in the body, where participants hit directly the opponent’s knees and elbows, and kicking is allowed.

Muay Thai is a fighting technique that originates back to the 13th century and has influence of military-styled defense techniques. Before becoming a sport, Muay Thai was a form of self-defense used by soldiers as well as locals who wanted to protect themselves from intruders, and even Kings were trained in this style as well.

Today, visitors can take a Muay Thai class in Bangkok, and get a first-hand look into what it takes to practice this interesting fighting technique.

• Muay Thai classes in Bangkok

64 – See a Muay Thai show to appreciate the technique in action

After taking a Muay Thai class, definitely consider checking out a Muay Thai show, which will demonstrate better just what it takes to perform such a fierce and ancient self-defense technique that soldiers, Kings, and everyday people practiced at one point.

Check out shows at New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium for some of the best Muay Thai Shows. Known as a popular sporting arena in Bangkok, New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is a stadium that has held many other heritage events such as Muay Thai shows.

There are talks about the possibility of halting the Muay Thai shows at the Stadium, so if you’re visiting soon, definitely check beforehand to see when the next show will take place inside the New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

• Muay Thai show tickets

65- Take in Thai and Chinese culture at LHONG 1919

Serving once as a 19th-century Chinese mansion, and serving as a home to many Chinese immigrants on their journeys to start a new life in Thailand, exploring LHONG 1919 is a must-do for first-time visitors.

Located in an antique port that welcomed many Chinese immigrants, LHONG 1919 welcomes its visitors with a shrine dedicated to Mazu, a Chinese goddess of sailors.

Stepping inside this decorative mansion, guests can look around and admire the art and relics adorning the hallways of the palace that symbolize both Thai and Chinese culture.

Locals and visitors will also be greeted by sounds and scents of prayer and incense around the palace, making it a site of respect and honor.

66 – Visit the house of the stars of the Royal Barges Procession at the Royal Barges National Museum

Acting as a house for the Royal Barges, which are ornately decorated boats that are the stars of the Royal Barge Procession, the Royal Barges National Museum has been given the highest Thai cultural and artistic title for housing these barges (boats) that have been recognized as national heritage pieces.

Visiting the Royal Barges National Museum means seeing in person these detailed boats, some of which belonged to the King, and of course, are the most detailed and decorated.

Additionally, alongside the King’s ornate boats are other beautifully designed boats designed to carry up to 54 oarsmen.

Get educated on the idea behind this amazing event, as well as take in the carved and colorful boats that participate in the Royal Barge Procession.

67 – Explore some dark tourism at Khao San Road

Famously known as the place to get pirated newly released movies to fake designer products, and books, Khao San Road is oftentimes referred by some as the black market for its activities.

Also famous for being a hot spot for backpackers and travelers all around, Khao San Road is a short road that has managed to pick up a few of these reputations, and more.

Today, other than those activities, visitors can also engage in some the nightlife activities, such as bar-hopping, clubbing, and eating. When visiting, make sure to be alert, and aware of your surroundings, as some may refer to this place as a bit sketchy.

Nonetheless, for some, it’s one of the things to see while in Bangkok.

68 – Join in on Chinese festivities at Wat Mangkon Kamalawat

Steeped in Thai and Chinese culture, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is one of the most important Buddhist temples which is known to host and celebrate a few notable events such as Chinese New Year and other Chinese food festivals.

Located inside Chinatown, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is a temple that opened its doors in 1871 and is a space of Chinese Buddhism beliefs. Inside, visitors will be able to look at Buddhist artifacts such as the “laughing” Buddha, as well as many more Buddha statues along the hallways of the temple.

While inside, check out some of the three other shrines, each dedicated to saints, founders of the temple, and goddesses.

69 – Take your photo next to wreckages of airplanes at the Airplane Graveyard

A unique point of interest for airplane admirers is the Airplane Graveyard.

The planes were under the ownership of a Thai businessman and were being sold as pieces of metal to build more airplanes. However, after 2010, the planes were left abandoned, missing more pieces than before, until a few families got together to refurbish the remnants of the planes into livable homes.

Today, the Airplane Graveyard is open for visitors to explore for a small ticket fee, as well as to get some unique photos. By far it’s one of the most unique things to do in Bangkok if you’re seeking something distinctive.

70 – Wander into the must-visit Don Wai Floating Market

Adding to the list of floating markets to check out while in Bangkok, Don Wai Floating Market is one that should definitely be on your list if you’re looking for a widespread of Thai food classics, from sweet to savory, while surrounded by charming Thai architecture.

What sets apart this floating market from others is undoubtedly the food scene. At the Don Wai Market, expect a variety of seafood, as well as drinks and desserts to top off your dining experience near the refreshing river of ThaJeen.

71 – Sneak into the world of poisonous snakes at the Snake Farm

Quite a special and possibly distinctive attraction is the Snak Farm, known for some fascinating rituals done with snakes, such as snake handling presentations, and educative workshops on the different uses of snake venom.

Forming part of the Thai Red Cross Institute, visitors can expect a close (and safe) encounter with some of the most poisonous snakes in the world which is also done in an ethical way, according to the humane treatment of the snakes while performing such activities like “milking” the snakes from their venom to touching them.

72 – See in real life the Dragon Tower in Nakhon Pathom for the day

A previously bustling city and the city to receive Buddhist influence before any other Thai city, Nakhon Pathom is a destination perfect for a day trip.

Iconically a famous picture you’d probably see on Instagram is a photo of Wat Sam Phran temple, also known as Dragon Tower. It is a pink building that appears to be wrapped by the structure of a giant Dragon, and yes, it is as amazing looking at it sounds.

Film lovers will love the Thai Film Museum, a must-stop for those who want to dive deep into Thai cinema, as well as check out Jesada Technik Museum for a look at cars from all different generations.

• Nakhon Pathom day trips from Bangkok

73 – Check out the incredible life at Bangkok Butterfly Garden & Insectarium

Interested in learning about the impact and life of butterflies in Thailand?

Check out Bangkok Butterfly Garden & Insectarium for a real-life experience of the life cycles of the insects and butterflies.

Guests walk into a biodome, where they walk through breeding rooms, scenic areas, exhibitions, and butterfly gardens, each step gaining more knowledge on the responsibilities and role that butterflies have in the Thai ecosystem, and more.

74 – Look at the graffiti art at The Abandoned The Sathorn Unique Tower

There’s an interesting story about The Abandoned The Sathorn Unique Tower, which explains that it was originally built to be a luxury 49-story condo complex.

However, after the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, construction came to a screeching halt.

Today, its abandoned aspect, along with stories circulating of urban legends originating on the floors of the building, have created an eerie, yet intriguing allure for travelers to at least circle around it and see the graffiti art around it.

75 – Seek spiritual protection with a Sak Yant Tattoo

Considered to be one of the best, and most spiritual souvenirs any visitor can get while in Thailand, a Sak Yank Tattoo is a piece of ancient inkwork also known as a Bamboo Tattoo.

It is believed that these Sak Yant Tattoos offer spiritual protection, based on the animal that the individual chooses to get tattooed.

Usually handled by Monks and laymen (also known as Ajarn) who are trained to perform this time-honored traditional practice, it may be available to anyone looking for this type of experience.

76 – Meet new people at a pub crawl

If trying new drinks, meeting new people, and getting to visit new parts of the city is your vibe, then definitely consider booking a pub crawl while visiting Bangkok.

By far for many travelers, hopping on a pub crawl is one of the best things to do in Bangkok, particularly for solo travelers.

Prepare for a night out full of fun, where you’ll grab exclusive deals and march at each bar, gain fast entry into some of the most popular bars and clubs, and have a night to remember with new friends.

Make sure to book your tour tickets ahead of time, and prepare for one of the best nights in your life.

• pub-crawls in Bangkok

77 – Get tickets to the most popular show in town at Calypso Cabaret Show

Get ready for one of the most incredible shows Thailand has to offer, the Calypso Cabaret Show.

Known as a show put on by individuals who are neither men nor women, but just individuals, it is a show that is sure to offer style, taste, and entertainment.

Witness performances from themed music and dress, to classical and well-known performances and songs.

Prepare to let loose, enjoy a night of zero labels, and all the fun that can fit inside Calypso Cabaret Show. Make sure to check performance dates, and book ahead if possible for easier planning.

• Calypso Cabaret Show tickets

78 – Indulge in some of the best fine dining in Bangkok

Bangkok is a foodie’s dream, offering food options ranging from traditional street food, and market stalls, to Michelin-starred restaurants , and some of the best dining experiences in the world.

Choose your fine dining experience, and let yourself indulge in the most exclusive food experience of the Thai culinary scene.

Some of the most notable Michelin restaurants to experience are Mezzaluna offering seasonal chef creations mainly of French influence, and Sorn , which is a restaurant elegantly offering southern Thai food with a modern twist.

There are many amazing choices when it comes to fine dining restaurants, especially Michelin-starred restaurants in Thailand, so definitely check it out.

79 – Catch the best views of Bangkok in one of its many best rooftop bars

Surely one of the best things to do in Bangkok is to spoil yourself with incredible views and delicacies.

Stop by for one of the best views in the city, with a drink in hand by checking out one of Bangkok’s best rooftop bars.

For some of the highest views of the city, check out Ojo Bangkok which offers a 360-degree view of the city, along with Mexican-inspired dishes and a wide variety of cocktails.

If you’re looking for expensive and memorable bites coupled with champagne and craft cocktails, definitely check out Vertigo rooftop, and Moon Bar , offering this and an outstanding view of Bangkok from above.

Where to stay in Bangkok?

Check out hotels in the best areas to stay while visiting Bangkok, and make sure to check out a free walking tour to get a good lay of the land.

• best hotels in Bangkok

Where to go next?

Make your trip even more memorable with a few day trip ideas from visits to Chiang Mai , Phnom Penh and Siem Reap , which are surely unmissable destinations to see at least one time in your life.

If you are looking for a seaside destination, Pattaya and the Southern islands including Phuket , Krabi and Koh Samui are ideal for a relaxing vacation.

Final thoughts

There is so much to do and sometimes so little time, which is why we hope that you enjoyed this list of fun and unusual things to do in Bangkok.

From its historic and emblematic temples to its interesting markets, pristine beaches, and wide variety of food and fresh produce, there are countless ways to design your trip to Thailand’s capital city.

Happy travels!

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Places to Visit in Bangkok

• Places To Visit

Bangkok Tourist Places

Here are some of the best places to visit in bangkok:.

Dream World Amusement Park

The Dream World theme park features amusement park rides, vibrant displays, candy floss, flowery gardens, waterworks, a snow park, and entertainment performances in a bright, lively atmosphere. With over seven enormous zones and 40 rides, Dream World provides a terrific family experience. It also offers amazing shooting options thanks to the amusement park's refreshing scenery and well-maintained park amenities.

Top Experiences To Do in Dream World Amusement Park

Safari World Zoo

Located in Khlong Sam Wa , the Safari World, within an area of 170 acres is a drive-in zoological park divided into two parts. The first is the Safari Park to house a large variety of animals like zebra, deer, giraffe, birds tigers lions, bears, etc. in a natural habitat. The second is the Marine Park which hosts events like the famous dolphin show. The Safari world zoo is the perfect place for families with children to visit in Thailand. Come face to face with thousands of rare and endangered species roaming freely in their natural habitat. The park provides a coach service for visitors who do not drive in.

Timings: Opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Price: The approximate price ranges from 50 Baht to 350 Baht. 

Top Experiences To Do in Safari World Zoo

Maha Nakhon Skywalk

Step through the glass-floored King Power Mahanakhon Tower's Skywalk for a spectacular panoramic view of Bangkok. You may feel like you're on top of the world as you stand on the roof of one of the city's tallest buildings, taking in the sights of Bangkok's bustling streets. You will be awestruck by the sight of a mesmerizingly serene sunset painting the sky with orange colours.

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The Grand Palace

The brilliant, majestic Grand Palace is one of the most sought after monuments and heritage sites in Bangkok. Served as the Thai King's residence for about 150 years in the past, the monument stands as a testament to the brilliant creativity and skill of the Thai people and it still happens to be the spiritual core of Thailand.

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Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is one of Southeast Asia's largest underwater aquariums. The Underwater Ocean Tunnel provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see 400+ marine species, including beautiful sharks. Witness and photograph uncommon marine species such as water rats, otters, and penguins, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feed them with your hands.

Top Experiences To Do in Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

Madame tussauds.

Originally founded in 1835, Madame Tussauds is a globally renowned chain of museums displaying wax figures of famous celebrities including actors, musicians and politicians. This unique wax museum offers different themed zones displaying some of the biggest personalities in the field of theater, art, politics, history and science. Experience activities like Picaso painting, photography, etc. here with your loved ones.

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Chatuchak Market

Chatuchak Market, known as the world's largest weekend market, is home to approximately 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to jewelry, shoes, accessories, arts, antiques, along with plants and pets. After a day of shopping, guests can satiate themselves with food and beverages at one of the area's restaurants or ease their weary muscles with a relaxing Thai massage.

Top Experiences To Do in Chatuchak Market

Siam Park City

Siam Park City, located in Bangkok's Khan Na Yao district, is Southeast Asia's largest theme and water park. With over 30 rides, a wax museum, floral gardens, a zoo, and more, the amusement park provides the greatest holiday experience. It sweeps you away from the bustle of city life and allows you to unwind and enjoy yourself, making it the most peaceful way to spend a summer vacation.

Top Experiences To Do in Siam Park City

Floating Market Bangkok

Almost every traveller visiting Bangkok for the first time has this ardent urge to visit these unique shopping areas conducted from the traditional boats. Despite the fact that sellers are more worried about tourists as compared to local people nowadays, the floating markets of Bangkok are still heaped with tropical fruits and vegetables, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens found right on the vessel. 

Top Experiences To Do in Floating Market Bangkok

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Erawan Museum

The Erawan Museum is immediately identifiable by its three-headed elephant construction that stands stoutly above the facility. The First Floor of the Museum depicts the theme of the underworld in Hindu mythology. The concept of Earth, or current life, is featured on the second floor, and the Third Floor portrays the concept of Tavatimsa Heaven.

Top Experiences To Do in Erawan Museum

Siam Serpentarium

Siam Serpentarium is peerless and the first of its kind in Asia for having a snake world inside. This place overtures snake edutainment, which serves as a fantastic experience of snake civilization.

Top Experiences To Do in Siam Serpentarium

The Jim Thompson House

Jim Thompson House Museum is situated in the heart of Bangkok and is dedicated to Jim Thompson, a silk merchant and an American entrepreneur. The place is a captivating museum displaying the rich legacy of Jim Thompson. The museum was first built in 1959, exhibiting a vast collection of Asian artifacts and art pieces that leave tourists spellbound.

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Wat Arun In Bangkok

Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn is a sacred place of worship in Bangkok that dates back to the ancient Ayutthaya period. The beautiful architecture of the temple coupled with magnificent views of the river and beyond, makes it one of the most popular places to visit among tourists.

Ayutthaya City Park

Ayutthaya City Park, Thailand's largest shopping complex in the city of Ayutthaya. It stands out because of its modern design, which contrasts sharply with the remainder of the town's lovely old charm. It's a lovely spot to escape the heat in the afternoons and spend some time shopping and resting. Its serene, beautiful vibe comes from its simple modern style, wide spaces, and fountains.

Wat Phra Kaew

Also called the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew is considered as one of the most important tourist places in Chiang Rai. It houses the meticulously carved statue of the Emerald Buddha and beautifully decorated to leave every tourist enthralled to the core.

One can look forward to gathering a peaceful day by visiting Wat Phra Kaew and admire the striking craftsmanship and architecture of this beautiful temple when they are on a vacation with their loved ones in Chiang Rai.

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Giant Swing

The Giant Swing in Bangkok stands as a captivating symbol of the city's cultural heritage. This iconic landmark, located in the historic area of Phra Nakhon, dates back to the 18th century and was originally used in Brahmin ceremonies. Towering over the skyline, the Giant Swing is not only a historic marvel but also offers a glimpse into Thailand's religious traditions.

Top Experiences To Do in Giant Swing

Jim Thompson House And Suan Pakkad Palace Museum

Visit these sightseeing places in Bangkok to explore Thailand's architectural traditions and artwork. First, visit Suan Pakkad Palace - a former royal residence featuring eight traditional teakwood houses with a collection of Ban Chiang. Then head to Jim Thompson's house and museum to view his personal collection of fine arts and antiques.

The Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun towers 260 ft above the Chao Phraya River. With fabulous views of the rising and setting sun, the temple is one of Bangkok's major tourist attractions after the Grand Palace.

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Bangkok Art And Culture Centre

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is the epicentre of Bangkok's burgeoning art scene, showcasing the best Thai art, music, design, film, and theatre, as well as the modern art scene from around the world. Every hallway, gallery, store, and restaurant within the BACC has been designed to create an ideal cultural dialogue for every art aficionado.

Top Experiences To Do in Bangkok Art And Culture Centre

Art In Paradise

Art in Paradise is an "illusional" art museum which features ten different interactive galleries. Also, known as Trickeye museum, the galleries are loaded with superbly done paintings varying from Ride a Flying Carpet, Stairway to Hell to the Coronation of the Emperor.

Assumption Cathedral

Assumption Cathedral is one of the most significant and beautiful churches located in Bangkok. Visit this magnificent 200-year-old church with a stunning European architectural style, all completed with a baroque style ceiling decorated with motifs. Bronze statues of saints can also be seen both in the interior as well as exterior, along with sloped ceilings and frescos. 

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Wat Intharawihan

Wat Intharawihan, a hidden gem in Bangkok, stands tall as one of the city's most captivating temples. A soaring 32­metres high standing Buddha is what defines Wat Intharawihan, which borders Wisut Kasat road at the northern edge of Banglamphu. Known as the Luangpor Toh, building on this statue, built of brick and stucco, began in 1867 during the reign of King Rama IV. Decorated in glass mosaics and 24­carat gold, it took over 60 years to complete and is the tallest of its kind in the world. The Ubosot was built towards the end of the Ayutthaya period, and has several interesting Buddha images, elevated murals on the walls and lavishly gilded window shutters. Outside are unusually carved sema stones and tucked away in an alcove there's a lifelike model of Luang Phaw Toh, a famous monk. In the small museum are old Buddha images and various paintings.

Princess Mother Memorial Park

The Princess Mother Memorial Park stands as a serene tribute to the beloved Princess Srinagarindra, revered as the "Princess Mother" in Thailand. Nestled amidst lush gardens and tranquil ponds, the park reflects her grace and benevolence. Visitors can explore the museum showcasing her life's legacy and admire the intricate architecture of the memorial hall. Immerse yourself in the rich history and pay homage to a remarkable woman whose enduring spirit is eternally enshrined in this picturesque sanctuary.

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram, also known as the Marble Temple, is a stunning Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand. Constructed from Carrara marble imported from Italy, this architectural masterpiece combines Thai and European design elements, creating a unique and elegant structure. Inside, visitors can admire intricately carved statues and beautiful murals. The temple's peaceful ambiance, exquisite craftsmanship, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the cultural and religious wonders of Bangkok.

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Pratunam Market

Pratunam Market is the largest clothing market of Thailand. One of the major and cheapest markets of Bangkok, you can also buy shoes, bags, watches, and other accessories in this market. Pratunam Market covers the entire space around and behind Amari Watergate. This is where the market gets its name, pratunam, that literally means ‘watergate’.

Dolphin Show

Dolphin show has always been a mass entertaining show, audiences of all ages are excited to watch these sea queens without any hesitation. Dolphins are amiable water animals with an emotional sensibility and a high intelligence quotient making them smart, curious and empathic.

Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan, also known as Wat Mahaprutharam is an ancient temple, built during the Ayutthaya era. The temple is located on the east side of the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem and spreads over 14 hectares. Initially a resting place for water buffalo carts, the temple was originally known as Wat Tha Kwian. It was later renovated by King Rama IV, given the current name and status of a third-class royal temple.

Top Experiences To Do in Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

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Siam Amazing Park

Siam Amazing Park, located in Bangkok, Thailand, is a sprawling amusement and water park offering an exhilarating escape for families and thrill-seekers alike. Spanning over 120 acres, the park boasts a plethora of attractions, including adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, water slides, and engaging shows.

Marine Park ( Safari World )

Marine Park Safari World in Bangkok is a popular attraction offering animal shows, a safari drive-through, and various exhibits. Visitors can see dolphins, sea lions, and exotic wildlife in naturalistic settings. It's a family-friendly destination combining entertainment, education, and conservation efforts.

Ancient City

Ancient City, or "Muang Boran," in Bangkok is a vast open-air museum showcasing Thailand's cultural heritage with scaled-down replicas of historic buildings, monuments, and temples, offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich history and architectural diversity.

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Above Eleven

Located on the uppermost levels of the luxurious Fraser Suites Sukhumvit offering a distinctively stylish rooftop bar with spectacular views, the Above Eleven concept also introduced to the Bangkok dining scene its first authentic Peruvian cuisine restaurant. Some of the hottest culinary trends internationally such as London, Barcelona, and New York opening new Peruvian-themed venues or transforming their menus. With its culinary team headed by Peruvian native Chef Omar Frank Maruy, the authentic Peruvian­, Japanese fusion food known as Nikkei Cuisine served at Above Eleven has been particularly well­ received­ the crisply fresh seafood dishes, spicy salads, and chargrilled skewers, all designed to be shared, and appealing to the palates of a mixed clientele of residents, expats and visitors.

What do you feel about a lunch arranged by the side of the river bank market? Bang Khla is exactly one of this kind. Mostly structured as a small village in the district of Bang Khla, the Bang Khla Floating Market is a famous tourist market in Thailand. Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Bang Khla offers a serene escape from bustling city life, making it a must-visit destination on your Thailand tour. This quaint town, located in the Chachoengsao Province, captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes and cultural charm.

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The Don Wai Floating Market is very famous in Bangkok, Thailand. Located on the outskirts of the City Capital, Don Wai Floating Market is a popular local market dealing with fresh farm Thai veggies and seafood.

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The Royal Thai Elephant Museum

A national symbol and a deeply revered animal in Thailand remain to be the elephant. Tradition dictates that a white elephant should belong to the monarch and becomes their exclusive property. Considered a symbol of prestige and wealth, the white elephant is an albino of the Siamese elephant. the grounds of the Dusit Palace. Formally the building was used as the stables of the royal elephants, but today has been converted in to a museum, which is made up of two buildings.

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Asia » Thailand » 14 Great Places to Visit Near Bangkok Right Now

14 Great Places to Visit Near Bangkok Right Now

What's In This Guide?

What are the best places to visit near bangkok.

A quick escape from Bangkok’s busy streets and sprawling centre might seem tough, but think again. You’ll be surprised by how many great places you can visit near Bangkok, and visit easily.

Shower under a waterfall. Sunbake on an island. Wander through a buzzing market. There is an adventure here for you.

The following places near Bangkok are within 3 hours (one-way) of the city. Some destinations are best visited with two or more days, I’ll let you know which ones.

Visiting Bangkok Soon? Don’t Miss This EPIC Guide 50+ Destinations, Food & Bars Get Your Copy Now 👇

Markets Near Bangkok

Think markets are just for shopping? You’re wrong! Thais visit markets to explore, socialize, eat and drink. The most important part is actually eating, so there is lots of food around.

There are loads of markets around Bangkok; floating markets, train markets, night markets…  the opportunities are endless. Here are some of my favourites.

1. Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market is one of the most unique places to visit near Bangkok. It is located Samut Songkhram, about 1.5 hours west of Bangkok.

You will find a busy market sprawled across a train line where trains actually arrive every hour! Crazy right? You have to see it to believe it. Vendors mostly sell fruit, vegetables, and seafood and aren’t pushy like at touristy markets in Bangkok so you get a nice authentic vibe.

The market runs 7 days a week so it is super easy to visit any time.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Maeklong Railway Market including how to get there and opening hours

2. Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram, and is the largest floating market near Bangkok. It is located just down the road from the Maeklong Railway Market, easily combined into a great one day trip from Bangkok.

Years ago Bangkok was built around canals. Over time many canals were filled in but some floating markets survived, most on the outskirts of Bangkok. Nowadays you will find lots of small boats selling everything from Pad Thai to grilled seafood, souvenirs, fresh fruits and more.

The Amphawa Floating Market is open on weekends. It is usually quite busy with Thais visiting from Bangkok. Expect a crowded, but lively market.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Amphawa Floating Market including directions

3. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

The Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is located in Taling Chang, in the north of Bangkok. It takes about an hour to get here from the city center.

There is more food and far fewer people here, so this is my No.1 floating market near Bangkok. Attention all foodies!

Start with lunch sitting by the canal slurping down a bowl of “Boat Noodles” like a local. This is a dish of rice noodles in pig’s blood soup. Trust me, it tastes better than it sounds.

Walk around the canals to work off lunch, then jump on a longtail boat to tour around Taling Chan. Longtail boat trips run for about half an hour and are a great way to see the local way of life.

Read More: my detailed guide to the Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market including public transport directions

Waterfalls Near Bangkok

I really love waterfalls, you cannot say you’ve seen Thailand’s nature without visiting one. There are some great waterfalls near Bangkok for you to explore too! Wander through the forest, and shower under a waterfall nature’s way, it’s an amazing experience.

4. Erawan Falls National Park

Erawan Falls are one of my favorite places to visit near Bangkok for a nature escape. I’ve visited the Erawan Falls more than ten times and listed them as one of the five must-see waterfalls in Thailand . Do you agree?

Water flows all year but it’s best to visit during the wet season (April to October). The park can close during very heavy rain due to safety concerns. Throughout the dry season, the pools have water but the stream can be just a trickle.

You can visit as a long day trip from Bangkok, but there are so many other attractions in Kanchanaburi that it’s worth staying a few nights. Check out my detailed guide to Kanchanaburi for plenty more destinations nearby.

Read More: my detailed full day breakdown Bangkok to Erawan Falls

5. Wang Takhrai Waterfall

Wang Takhrai is anot her great waterfall near Bangkok located in Nakhon Nayok Province. Unlike the Erawan Falls, Wang Takhrai Waterall is hardly known to westerners.

This isn’t a tall waterfall, but a series of rapids flowing through the forest. The water is deep enough to swim in all year round. You can also hire inflatable tubes in the park and cruise down the river. It’s similar to tubing in Vang Vieng but without the parties and tourists.

Want to stay overnight? Ask about campsites, tents, and bungalows at the national park headquarters. It’s the perfect nature escape from Bangkok.

How to get there – you will need private transport to get to Wang Takhrai Waterfall. Hire a car in Bangkok or charter a taxi for the day. The trip takes about 2hrs one way.

6. Haew Suwat Waterfall (Khao Yai National Park)

Haew Suwat is a huge waterfall located in Khao Yai National Park, one of the closest national parks to Bangkok. This waterfall was one of the filming locations for the movie The Beach .

It is best to visit Haew Suwat Waterfall as part of a bigger trip to Khao Yai National Park. There are lots of jungle hiking trails in Khao Yai NP which are amazing to explore.  The national park is also home to animals like elephants, bears, leopards, deer, otters, and gibbons.

Want to stay overnight? Try camping in Khao Yai National Park and go for a morning swim under the waterfall. There are also lots of guesthouses in Pak Chong near the park’s northern entrance.

How to get there – join a small group tour from Bangkok, the drivers will know about Haew Suwat Waterfall.

Islands Near Bangkok

So you think that all the Thai islands are located far away in the south? Well, I’m about to blow your mind. Koh Phangan, Phuket, and Koh Lanta are not the only Thai islands! There are actually lots of amazing islands near Bangkok which you need to know about too!

I’ve only included three islands here; Koh Chang, Koh Samae San, and Koh Larn. If you head a little further east from Koh Chang you can also visit Koh Mak and Koh Kood (which is probably my favorite Thai island).

7. Koh Chang Island

Koh Chang is an amazing tropical island located just a few hours from Bangkok off the coast of Trat. That’s the last province as you head east to Cambodia. Note: it is best to visit Koh Chang if you have at least 3 days available.

Koh Chang has loads of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, waterfalls, snorkeling, scuba diving, incredible mountain lookouts, or just relaxing on the beach. You can even go island hopping to beautiful places like Koh Wai, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. There’s plenty of boats which depart from the southern end of the island at Bang Bao Pier.

Looking for a party vibe? Make sure you visit Lonely Beach where you will find Reggae Bars, beach parties, cheap hostels, and lots of restaurants.

Read More: my review of the top beaches on Koh Chang island

8. Koh Samae San

Koh Samae San is one of my favorite islands near Bangkok for a quick day trip. It is located just 1.5km off the coast of Rayong which is reached by a short ferry trip. The island is managed by the Thai Navy so National Park rules apply; entry fees, no drinking alcohol, no littering, etc…

There are no hotels or resorts on Koh Samae San, so you won’t be able to stay here overnight. There are, however, some amazing white sandy beaches, great snorkelling spots, and perfectly clear water for swimming.

How to get there (solo) – take a bus or van from Ekkamai bus station to Pattaya Central, then catch a taxi to Koh Samae San pier.

How to get there (guided) – spend about 6 hours on the island which is plenty, and have all private transport included with this guide from around $70 per person. Not a bad deal!

9. Koh Larn

Koh Larn is located just off the coast of Pattaya, about 2hrs drive from Bangkok. It is pretty much the closest island to Bangkok worth visiting (apart from those in the Chao Praya River). Check out Tawaen Beach on the north coast, and Tien Beach on the west coast. If you want to spend a night on Koh Larn, your best option is the east coast, where you will find lots of budget and boutique hotels.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 190 THB (USD 6) per person. This trip takes about 2hrs one way. You need to take a songtaew from the minivan station to Pattaya South Wharf, then hop on the ferry to Koh Larn. The ferry to Koh Larn costs 30 THB per person and takes about 30 minutes.

10. Koh Kret

This is one of the closest islands near Bangkok, but it’s not what you expect. Koh Kret is actually a man-made island in The Chao Praya River.

The island is inhabited by people of the Mon ethnicity, similar to those you’ll find in Sangkhlaburi. There is a traditional pottery village where you can buy some authentic handmade crafts really cheap. The village is mixed in with community small farms and some nature along the water. It really feels like a throwback to an early day Bangkok.

After exploring the island be sure to drop into the local microbrewery for some of the best beers around Bangkok. You will find this, and loads of other local things to do in Bangkok in my huge city guide.

Read More: my detailed guide to Koh Kret Island including directions ad top attractions

Other Cities Near Bangkok

There are a few cities near Bangkok in the surrounding provinces which I suggest visiting. Each has its own vibe, and you will quickly realize that Bangkok is not home to everyone in Thailand.

11. Ayutthaya – Ancient City

A trip to Thailand would not be complete without visiting the Ayutthaya Historical Park . This is one of the main historical places to visit near Bangkok. Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 and later become the ancient capital city of Thailand (then known as Siam). By the year 1700 is was apparently the largest city in the world.

There are countless temples all around Ayutthaya, which are open every day. The most iconic temples to visit include; Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Matathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet. if you love the temples in Ayutthaya, then you must check out these 12 temples in Bangkok too!

Getting to Ayutthaya is easy by train, minivan or bus and takes about 1 to 1.5hrs each way. With trains being as slow as they are in Thailand the minivan is the quicker option. It is also possible to get to Ayutthaya by boat however it takes much longer and needs to be organized in advance as a tour.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 90 THB (USD 3) per person. This direct trip takes about 2hrs one way.

12. Kanchanaburi – Death Railway

Kanchanaburi has the most World War 2 History you will find near Bangkok and in all of Thailand. Prisoners of War captured by the Japanese were forced into slave labor to build what is now known as the Death Railway. It consists of a number of sites including the Bridge Over the River Kwai, Hellfire Pass, and other sections of track.

The best starting place to visit these sites is Kanchanaburi, but also possible in a one day trip from Bangkok.

How to get there – minivans depart Mochit Bus Terminal ( tickets and timetable ). Tickets start at 150 THB (USD 5) per person. This direct trip takes about 3hrs one way.

13. Hua Hin – Beaches

Hua Hin is located southwest of Bangkok along the highway which heads towards the islands in Surat Thani. You will find long sandy beaches and lots of great local food here. The beaches in Hua Hin are regarded as some of the best in Southeast Asia for windsurfing, so whether you’re a pro or just want to get started, then you better make a trip here.

Hua Hin is more developed than the smaller islands in southern and eastern Thailand. Expect to find lots of large hotels along the beach, and smaller hostels a few streets back in town.

How to get there – buses and minivans depart regularly from Ekkamai Bus Station and take about 3hrs for a one-way trip. Alternatively, trains depart from Hua Lampong and take about 4hrs for a one-way trip.

14. Rayong – Thung Prong Thong Mangrove Forest

A mangrove forest might not be top on your list of places to visit near Bangkok, however, this one is worth it. The golden Thung Prong Thong Mangrove forest covers a massive 2,400 acres along the coast of Rayong province.

Explore the coastal biodiversity along the extensive stretch of elevated wooden boardwalks. While the most popular sight is the sprawling golden mangrove forest, expect to see animals including crabs and rare wetland birds. To explore further into the wetland you can also hop on board a 20-minute longtail boat ride near the entrance of the park.

How to get there – you will need your own private transport to get to Thung Prong Thong. I suggest hiring a car in Bangkok for the day.

Visiting Bangkok Soon?

With well over 10 million people, Bangkok is a total megacity. This often makes it quite daunting for first time travellers.

How do you get around? What should you see? But what about all the tourist scams? It’s easy to get information overload and miss out on the amazing culture this city has to offer.

After having lived in Bangkok for over 7 years, I’ve compiled all my top tips and local’s perspectives into this easy to use Bangkok Travel Guide .

Check it out, I reckon you’ll love it. And if you’ve got any questions you’re more than welcome to shoot across a message.

50+ Unique Destinations Loads of Local Bars Even More Great Food All in ONE Ultimate Guide

G'day I'm Josh (some call me Fishtank) and on this blog I'll show you how to travel Asia beyond what you thought was possible. We'll explore the highest waterfalls, most remote islands, eat the best street food, and plenty more! Josh Shephard

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1. Grand Palace & Temple of Emerald Buddha

1 km from city center 1 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Grand Palace in Bangkok was once the official residence of the King of Thailand. Often mistaken for a single structure, it is a group of numerous buildings, halls, pavilion sets, grounds, lawns, and courtyards. It also houses one of the holiest Buddhist temples, Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile.

2. Chatuchak Weekend Market

7 km from city center 2 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The king of markets in Bangkok and the world's largest weekend markets, Chatuchak is spread over 35 acres with more than 15,000 stalls. Also known as JJ Market, it is divided into 27 sections ranging from clothing, accessories, handicrafts, furniture, art, food, books, antiques, and much more. Nearest stations are TS Mo Chit/MRT Chatuchak Park/MRT Kamphaeng Phet.

3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

1 km from city center 3 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Wat Pho is a famous temple located immediately south of the Grand Palace precinct in Bangkok. The highlight of Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha. Standing tall at 45 m long and 15 m high, it is one of the largest in the world. The Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School is also located here.

4. Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn)

2 km from city center 4 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, is one of the most famous sights in Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The highlight is its 82 meters high tower which provides a panoramic view of the river. The stairs to the tower's top are quite steep, but it provides one of the best sunset views in Bangkok. It can be reached by a shuttle boat of ferry from Wat Pho Pier which costs TBH 4.

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5. centralworld shopping mall.

4 km from city center 5 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

CentralWorld is the eleventh largest shopping complex in the world and effectively the largest in Thailand. Sprawled over 7 levels, all embellished with artistic installations, it has hundreds of fashion, entertainment, electronic, wellness, and culinary destinations, as well as Hindu shrines and a 5-star hotel.

6. Siam Paragon Mall

4 km from city center 6 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Siam Paragon is one of Bangkok's most popular and visited shopping malls. From Jimmy Choo and Versace to Prada, over 70 globally renowned brands are available here. Besides clothing, brands such as Sony, Samsung, Aston Martin, and BMW can be found here too. The mall is also home to one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia, a 16-screen cineplex, and restaurants.

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7. Relax At Lumphini Park

5 km from city center 7 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Named after the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Nepal, Lumpini Park was the first public park in Bangkok. It is a multi-functional park with an artificial lake for boating, jogging, walking and cycling paths, a sports center, a library, and Elder Citizens Club. A statue of Rama VI is also built inside the park.

8. Asiatique The Riverfront

6 km from city center 8 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Once an international port, Asiatique The Riverfront is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment complex on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River. Neatly divided into four districts, it houses a variety of boutiques, fine dining, malls, fashion stores, and entertainment spaces. Asiatique has multiple themed exhibition zones that keep changing.

9. Gorge on the Street Food

0 km from city center 9 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Bangkok is Thailand’s ultimate food destination, offering a signature zesty cuisine characterised by chilli peppers, shrimp paste, fish sauce and lemon. Some of the most craved street foods in Bangkok are pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, boat noodles, crab omelettes, Roti Gluay banana pancakes, steamed dumplings, and green curry chicken, drinks like Cha Yen tea, and even deep-fried scorpions and spiders. Try them at markets like Ratchada Train Market, floating markets, Chinatown, and Ratchawat Market.

10. Day Trip To Safari World

25 km from city center 10 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Safari World is an animal and leisure park and one of the favourite destinations in Bangkok. Spread across 170 acres, it is home to hundreds of animals, including rare and exotic animals. Safari World has 2 main attractions, Safari Park and Marine Park, with activities for both children and adults like jungle safari and jungle cruise.

11. Chao Phraya River Cruise

0 km from city center 11 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The river of kings, Chao Phraya River, is Thailand's prime river and waterway, used by an average of 50,000 commuters daily. The river stretches over 370 kilometers, and a cruise is a great way to enjoy Bangkok's view. Group and private cruise tours are available starting for TBH 2200, including a meal. You can also opt for a ferry ride across the river.

12. Stroll Around Khao San Road

1 km from city center 12 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Khao San Road, famously known as the backpacker's haven, is a 410-meter-long street in central Bangkok with street food stalls, bars, shops, restaurants, nightclubs, cafes, and massage parlors. This road also has one of the most famous night markets in Bangkok.

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13. Jim Thompson House Museum

3 km from city center 13 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Jim Thompson House in Bangkok is a renowned cultural attraction and museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the life of Jim Thompson, an American entrepreneur and silk impresario, as well as a stunning display of traditional Thai architecture and art. The house has been transformed into a museum dedicated to preserving Thompson's legacy. Guided tours are available to visitors.

14. Check Out The Floating Markets

0 km from city center 14 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The floating markets in Bangkok have long graced many billboards, websites and magazine covers of Thailand, earning the capital the title of 'Venice of the East'. These tightly packed waterways, filled with slender boats laden with colourful fruits, vegetables, delectable Thai street (canal) food and tourist knick-knacks, are helmed by mostly smiling women with their woven hats. It is a unique shopping experience in Bangkok.

15. Party at the Nightclubs

0 km from city center 15 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Famous for the swanky settings, all-nighter crawls, booming music, delicious food and drinks, nightclubs in Bangkok cater to both the city’s youth and tourists or ex-pats. Clubs like Onyx and Insanity feature electronic music, dance floors and glimmering lights, while The Club at Koi and Levels Nightclub are go-to party spots for the elite. For live music, head to DND Club and Nunglen, and hop into Escobar Nightclub to escape the crowds.

16. Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

4 km from city center 16 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Sea Life Bangkok is an underground aquarium located inside the Siam Paragon Mall. Sprawled over an area of 110,000 sq. ft., it is the largest Southeast Asian aquarium. Home to various marine life retrieved from the world's remotest corners, the aquarium houses octopuses, sharks, crabs, penguins, and fish species.

17. Enjoy The View From Mahanakhon Skywalk

11 km from city center 17 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Mahanakhon Skywalk is Thailand’s highest skywalk, at 314 meters tall. Located atop King Power Mahanakhon Tower, the skywalk offers a panoramic view of Bangkok and a magnificent sunset. There’s a sky tray experience on the 78th floor, where visitors can stand 310 meters above the ground on a glass floor.

18. Watch Ladyboy Shows & Cabarets

6 km from city center 18 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Bangkok boasts some of the best and most entertaining ladyboy shows in the world. The lights, decor of the auditoriums, the makeup and gorgeous dresses of the ladyboys along with the small comedic skits performed by them make these shows professional and fun. Calypso Cabaret, Mambo cabaret and Playhouse cabaret are some of the most popular ones among tourists.

19. Dine At Chocolate Ville

18 km from city center 19 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Chocolate Ville is a charming open-air theme park and restaurant in Bangkok's Khan Na Yao district. It is based on a European village theme and is a paradisical destination for Instagram photoshoots. The ‘village’ is a colorful extravaganza comprising more than a dozen toy town-like buildings - each with a postcard-worthy background.

20. Museum of Contemporary Arts

12 km from city center 20 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The museum of contemporary art (MOCA) is a world-class art gallery showcasing art pieces collected over the past three decades by Boonchai Bencharongkul. It is spread over five stories, housing 800 beautiful Thai art pieces previously owned by kings and originating from ancient temples. The museum building itself is a piece of art to admire.

21. Enjoy An Authentic Thai Massage

0 km from city center 21 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Combining acupressure, Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga, Thai massages offer health benefits like boosting energy, improving posture, and lowering stress. In a traditional Thai massage, practitioners use their hands, elbows, forearms, and thumbs alongside aromatic oil therapies to reduce muscle tension. Relax and rejuvenate in Bangkok with soothing sessions at Spa Burasari, SPA by Le Méridien, The Lavender Massage by Arunda, and Sayamon Massage starting at THB 250-300 hourly.

22. See Golden Buddha At Wat Traimit

2 km from city center 22 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Wat Traimit, nestled at the end of Chinatown's Yaowarat Road near Hualampong Railway Station, is one of the best royal temples in Bangkok. It is famous for housing a pure gold statue of Lord Buddha, almost 5 meters tall and 5.5 tonnes heavy. Wat Traimit is also known as The Temple of the Golden Buddha.

23. Explore Unique Maeklong Railway Market

67 km from city center 23 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Established around 1905, the Maeklong railway market is a one-of-a-kind market in Bangkok, mainly selling meat, seafood, sweets, fruits, vegetables and drinks. A few times a day, there is a train that runs directly through the market, initially blowing a horn and warning the vendors who very casually lower their umbrellas, move their products back, and let the train pass before resuming business.

24. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

3 km from city center 24 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Bangkok's Madame Tussauds Wax houses wax replicas of 70 world-famous celebrities in 8 different themed sections. You can touch anyone from Albert Einstein to Tom Cruise, from Barack Obama to Tiger Woods. However, you cannot touch any figure in the most decorated room housing the Thai royal family.

25. Tour The National Museum

1 km from city center 25 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Bangkok National Museum exhibits magnificent collections of art and artifacts reflecting Thai culture. Nestled on an erstwhile land of the 18th century, Wang Na Palace, or the National Museum, was originally established by King Rama V to display the gifts and antiques given to him by his father. Free guided tours in English and French are conducted on Wednesday and Thursday at 9:30 AM.

26. Visit Wat Saket (Gould Mount Temple)

1 km from city center 26 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Popularly known as the Golden Mount, Wat Saket is a picturesque temple with a 58-metre golden chedi which houses a Buddha relic. Established during the Ayutthaya period, this temple is built on a man-made hill, and requires you to climb 300 steps to get to the top of the chedi. A colourful week-long fair is hosted here every November.

27. Stroll Around The One Ratchada

7 km from city center 27 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The One Ratchada is a famous night market in the Din Daeng district of Bangkok. It opened in September 2022 after the popular Rot Fai Night Market or Train Night Market, closed during the pandemic. On one side of the market are shops selling clothes, shoes, accessories, gadgets, electronics, cosmetics, etc. The other side is dedicated to food, desserts, and beverages.

28. Ride The BTS Skytrain

0 km from city center 28 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Commonly known as BTS Skytrain, Skytrain is an elevated rapid railway transit system and the most popular means for getting around in Bangkok. The two lines - Sukhumvit and Silom - cover all major attractions like Chatuchak Park, Siam Paragon, the old town, weekend markets, Chao Phraya River, and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Riding the Skytrain costs THB 16 to travel to one station, while one-day tickets offer unlimited rides at THB 140.

29. Shop at the Night Markets

0 km from city center 29 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Bangkok's night markets have graced magazines and billboards with their colorful, neon-lit stalls and incredible varieties of local items. With over 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak Friday Night Market is the city's largest. Other bustling night markets are Hua Mum Market, Khlong Thom Market, Train Night Market, Rot Fai Market, and Pratunam Night Market. Their stalls offer silks, traditional clothing and handicrafts, accessories, souvenirs, and foods like curries and noodles.

30. Explore Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

3 km from city center 30 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) showcases a broad range of the best Thai art, music, design, film, and theatre and the contemporary art scene from across the globe. Opened in 2008, the BACC is spread over an area of 4000 square meters, housing shops, an exciting art library, and a handful of cafes along with the large exhibition areas.

31. Stroll Around Nana Plaza

8 km from city center 31 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Nana Plaza is a commercial building on the Sukhumvit Road in Khlong Toei district of Bangkok. Known as the “world’s largest adult playground”, Nana Plaza gets its name from its prominent member Lek Nana. Being the most colourful part of the city, Nana Plaza is primarily famous for the bars, pubs, clubs, street food vendors which attracts a considerable crowd all year round.

32. Street Food in Chinatown

2 km from city center 32 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Located along the Yaowarat Road, Chinatown is a Chinese cultural and commercial hub. It is majorly known for its exotic culinary experience of street foods, along with several Buddhist temples, and traditional wooden shops selling Chinese goods. It is best to visit Chinatown at night, which is when it is vibrant with neon lights and chaotic fun.

33. Experience Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

64 km from city center 33 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Marketed as a major tourist attraction and a marker of Thai culture, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is among the most popular floating markets in the world. Boats swaying on the water are navigated by Thai locals and traders who sell all kinds of farm produce, fruits, souvenirs and freshly prepared local foods, which visitors can enjoy while sailing in their own boats.

34. Shopping At MBK Center

3 km from city center 34 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

From top branded to local products in clothing, furniture, accessories, luggage, electronics, stationery, and many other things, one can find it all at the MBK Center. Besides shopping, you can dig into scrumptious food at two large food courts. They also have an entire floor dedicated to entertainment, with a cinema and a 3D art museum.

35. Take A Thai Cooking Class

0 km from city center 35 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Thai food is famous worldwide for its hot and bold spices, savory flavors like coconut, and supposed medicinal properties. Some of the best places to enjoy full-course or drop-in Thai cooking classes include Bangkok Thai Cooking Academy, House of Taste Thai Cooking School, and Silom Thai Cookery School.

36. Shopping At Siam Center

3 km from city center 36 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

First built in 1973 during the inception of Bangkok's retail boom, the newly revamped Siam Center opened to the public in 2013 to undulated appreciation. It is fashioned modernly, with trendy interiors lined with international and national brands and boutiques stores, some of which are only unique to this mall and are highly appealing to the younger generations.

37. See The Giant Swing At Wat Suthat

1 km from city center 37 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

One of the oldest temples of Bangkok, Wat Suthat greets you with its serene aura. The main highlight is an eight-meter-high bronze statue of Phra Si Sakyamuni, which dates back to the Sukhothai period and is the largest surviving bronze cast of Thailand belonging to the 14th century. In front of Wat Suthat is a striking Giant Swing towering at the height of 21.15 meters, making for a remarkable sight even from a distance.

38. Day Tour to Ayutthaya

69 km from city center 38 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

An hour’s drive away from Bangkok, Ayutthaya was the second Siamese capital since 1350. Characterised by reliquary towers and monasteries, Ayutthaya’s remains reveal an elaborate but systematic ancient city. Today, visitors can explore 289 hectares of the historical park’s UNESCO World Heritage property areas, confined to the former Royal Palace precinct, surrounding monuments, and the Wat Ratchaburana temple crypts displaying surviving murals, sculptures, and palm-leaf manuscripts.

39. Dine at Baiyoke Sky Tower - Thailand's Highest Building

4 km from city center 39 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Undoubtedly the best place to see Bangkok in all its glory is none other than Baiyoke Sky Tower in Prathunam. Pronounced ‘by-yolk’ and not ‘by-ok’, and also known as Baiyoke Tower II, it is the city’s tallest building. Spanning over 80 floors, the tower features a public observatory, multiple restaurants and bars, a shopping complex, a 360-degree rotating sky deck, and a hotel with over 600 rooms.

40. Enjoy At Rooftop Sky Bars

0 km from city center 40 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Offering luxurious settings and top-notch dining and drinking experiences, lounging at Bangkok’s rooftop sky bars is the best way to soak in the breathtaking city and skyline views. Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar is the tallest in Thailand, mounted on the 64th storey of King Tower. Some more rooftop sky bars to visit for unforgettable 360-degree panoramas include Vanilla Sky Rooftop, RedSquare Rooftop Bar, Above Eleven and Baiyoke Sky Bar, all open 24/7.

41. See Sathorn Unique Tower

5 km from city center 41 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Standing with a whopping 49 stories (including two dungeon dark underground levels), the Sathorn Unique Tower is one of those skyscraper buildings in Bangkok which never got completed due to the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997. The views of the city from the floors of the Sathorn Unique Towers intensify as you ascend them one by one.

42. Explore Muang Boran (Ancient City)

27 km from city center 42 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Ancient Siam, known as Muang Boran in Thai, is the world's largest open-air museum spread over 300 acres. With many mini-museums and sculpture gardens inside it, the museum mainly features replicas of some of Thailand's most important historical sites. The Ancient City's map here is a replica of the Thai map, divided into four sections in the same way as Thailand.

43. Watch Muay Thai Kickboxing

0 km from city center 43 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

A popular spectator sport since ancient times, Muay Thai is a traditional Thai martial art using stand-up striking styles and clinching techniques. Bangkok has plenty of Muay Thai gyms and kickboxing arenas. Watch the most incredible and famous male and female boxers in action at New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium, Channel 7 Stadium and Siam Boxing Arena. Most shows begin after 2 PM, and tickets start at THB 500.

44. Tour The Museum of Siam

2 km from city center 44 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Situated in Phra Nakorn on Sanam Chai street, the Museum of Siam is an interactive museum that combines modern with the old in an innovative artistic way to tell the story of Thailand. The exhibits are displayed from the very beginning of Ayutthaya to the daily life and highlights of Thai history, wars, Buddhism, and Thailand's entry into the modern world.The free audio guide is available at the ticket counter.

45. See Traditional Thai Dance at Erawan Shrine

4 km from city center 45 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Erawan Shrine was built in 1956 after the Thai government constructed the luxury Erawan hotel at the location. The superstitious labourers and other astrologers decided to honour the Brahma God Thao Mahaprom and hence built this shrine. Ceremonial offerings are made by Thais and tourists to get their wishes fulfilled. Catching a traditional Thai dance performance here is a joyful experience too.

46. Soi Cowboy

7 km from city center 46 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

One of the popular red light districts, Soi Cowboy is a neon-lit street, filled with Go Go Bars and other bright spaces. With friendly staff members outside each bar, it embodies the true nightlife experience of Bangkok. Located very close to Terminal 21, it is an exciting experience thanks to the unique culture and vibe of the place!

47. Fun Time At Dream World Amusement Park

32 km from city center 47 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The Dream World theme park is in Thanyaburi, a 50-minute drive from Bangkok. The amusement park offers a cheerful, bustling ambiance, with rollercoasters, colorful parades, candy floss, waterworks, flowering gardens, a snow park, and entertainment shows.

48. Giant Swing

1 km from city center 48 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Located right in front of Wat Suthat is a striking Giant Swing towering at the height of 21.15 meters. Nestled in the heart of busy square between Wat Suthat and Bangkok City Hall is a Giant Swing making for a remarkable sight even from a distance. Initially established in the year 1784, the swing went under renovation to be replaced in 2004 with a newly crafted frame made of golden teak.

49. Platinum Fashion Mall

4 km from city center 49 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Platinum Fashion Mall is packed with around 1,300 shops and a large food court. Its speciality is that the items are very reasonably priced. So if you're looking for some serious shopping of clothes, handbags, cosmetics, shoes or anything from head to toe, you can easily spend a day here without digging a massive hole in your pocket.

50. Ride A Tuk Tuk

0 km from city center 50 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Tuk Tuks are motorised 3-wheeled, open-air rickshaws ferrying passengers around Bangkok’s vibrant roads and streets. As one of the fastest and cheapest means of local transportation, over 9,000 Tuk Tuks can be found in Bangkok. One can find them parked in groups in front of tourist-geared attractions like Khao San Road and Grand Palace. Locals usually pay THB 30-60 per ride for a few stops, while for tourists, it goes up from there.

51. Shop at the Terminal 21 Mall

7 km from city center 51 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

Ever dreamed of travelling the world? This airport inspired mall in Bangkok, Terminal 21, brings all the cities of the world under one roof, letting you shop from Tokyo one minute, and San Fransisco the other. International luxury brands and many local labels are available here. With over 600 shops, a cineplex and all kinds of restaurants, the shopping experience here is emphasised like no other.

52. Stroll Around King Rama IX Park

19 km from city center 52 out of 126 Things To Do in Bangkok

The largest public park of Bangkok, the King Rama IX Park is a botanical garden built in 1987 to celebrate King Bhumibol's 60th birthday. Spread over 200 acres, this beautiful space is perfect for wandering around or spending an afternoon with family. It also has a gallery with photos and paintings of the King. Every December, the park also hosts an enchanting flower festival.

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Trazy - Book Travel Crazy Things to do in Asia

10 must-visit attractions in bangkok for first-timers.

How to get around in Bangkok

Apr 18, 2024 • 12 min read

Yes, you really can get around Bangkok by long-tail boat. Some of it, anyway. ©splendens/Getty Images © ©splendens/Getty Images

With a population of more than 11 million, greater Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis that can be traversed by taxi (car and motorcycle), túk-túk, bus and boat. So there is always a way to move around, but a little savvy will go along way to help you get from A to B safely and efficiently – the rules of the road tend to be suggestions, and sidewalks are an inconsistent presence (and sometimes even impromptu motorcycle roadways). 

A major transport highlight is the ever-expanding light-rail mass transit system. Even old-timers familiar with the original two central city Skytrain lines will be surprised to learn that there are now 10 lines with a total of 181 stations and more to come. Lines cross the Chao Phraya River and reach far into the northern and southeastern suburbs.

Here are our tips for navigating this energetic behemoth of a city by road, rail and river.

Explore far and wide on the sleek Skytrain and MRT trains

Somewhat simplified, Bangkok has two commuter light-rail systems: the Skytrain and MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). One-way fares start at 16B and go up to 59B. Visitors should be aware that transferring between stations of the two systems usually entails a walk of at least several hundred meters. A prime example is the long walk between the Skytrain’s Sukhumvit station and the MRT’s Asoke station at the intersection of Thanon Sukhumvit and Thanon Asoke/Sukhumvit Soi 21 near Terminal 21 mall.

More important, the systems have separate payment systems. In fact, the MRT consists of several systems because it fields three different operators. While it's relatively easy to move between the old and new MRT lines, you will have to buy a new token when transferring to the new Pink, Purple and Yellow lines.  

The MRT is the more extensive network with six lines and 120 stations and counting. In central Bangkok, the trains of the original Blue Line run underground north from Asoke intersection before looping westward to intersect with the Skytrain's light green Sukhumvit Line near Chatuchak Park and crossing the river.

Outer stations and the five newer MRT lines run high above ground like the Skytrain. With the opening of the Sanam Chai station, one of the newest stations on the Blue Line's western lower leg, there is finally a station on Ratanakosin Island . It’s midway between Chinatown and the Grand Palace . 

Ride the Skytrain to Thonburi's shopping attractions 

The Skytrain, the original two-line elevated commuter rail system debuting back in December 1999, is officially known as the Bangkok Mass Transit System or "BTS." In practice, "BTS" has become a common nickname for all the commuter lines.  If you're desperately looking for the nearest Skytrain or MRT station, asking a Thai passerby or taxi driver for the nearest BTS station ("sà·tăh·nee BTS"), will get you directions.

Although it's added stations (for a total of 60) in the past two decades, the Skytrain remains a two-line system. What about that BTS Gold Line west of the river in Thonburi? The vehicles aren't actually trains but ground-level "people movers" similar to the shuttle trains that run between terminals of very large airports. Costing a flat 15B fare, this three-station line starts near the Skytrain's Krung Thon Buri station. With a stop at the luxury Iconsiam shopping mall, it runs parallel to Thanon Charoen Nakhon and its growing array of hipster cafes and artsy shops.

Enjoy the breeze on a riverboat "bus" 

The more pleasant way to visit Thonburi from Bangkok is simply to catch one of the flat raft-like ferries that chug from bank to bank from dawn to dusk. Departing from 32 piers ( tha ), the one-way fare is a mere 3.5B (or 4B from the Wat Pho pier). Many of the large hotels on both sides of the river operate their own sturdier shuttles across the river for free.

Large piers are also stops for the large longtail Chao Phraya River boats that run up and down the river like public buses with scheduled stops. To the south, the boats start in Samut Prakan province and travel all the way up to the town of Nonthaburi in the north. The piers dotting the old royal city of Ratanakosin Island are Tha Tien, Tha Maharaj, Tha Prachan and Tha Phra Athit/Banglamphu. The Skytrain's Saphan Taksin station is close to Tha Sathorn.

With most boats beginning trips around 6am and ending around 7:30pm, the inexpensive fares start at 10B and run up to 40B, depending on distance and type of boat. Pay close attention to t he color of the flags : they indicate whether a boat stops at every pier or is an express stopping at only select piers. The blue-flagged boat is a tourist boat that will stop at piers chosen by passengers.  

Catch a longtail boat on the Saen Saep Canal 

There’s no more enjoyable way to get a sense of the traditional Thai life than to spend a day on a longtail boat exploring the canals ( khlong ) of Thonburi. But if you want to get around Bangkok by longtail, there are only the commuter boats running along the Saen Saep Canal ( khlong saen saep ). In the west, the route starts on the southeast edge of Ratanakosin Island near the Golden Mount Temple. The canal slices eastward 18km all the way to Minburi district. 

The ride offers plenty of colorful sights and the smells of canal-side living. Passengers need to be nimble as the narrow longtail stops for only moments at a pier before speeding on to the next. For visitors, the most common route is between the Golden Mount and the pier at Hua Chang Bridge that crosses Thanon Phayathai near the Ratchathewi Skytrain station. Jim Thompson's House is a five-minute walk  from this pier. It's a ten-minute walk to Siam Square, MBK mall and the Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre. The next pier stop is at Pratunaam, which is walking distance to the garment outlets and Ratchaprasong intersection.

Collected on board by conductors with a very good sense of balance, fares run from 8B to 20B, depending on distance. On weekdays, the first trip starts at 5:30am; the last finishes around 8:30 pm. On weekends, the first is 6am and the last finishes at 7pm.

For more information on navigating Bangkok's waterways, check out this article .

Flag down (a very affordable) taxi

All taxis in Bangkok are metered and air-conditioned. A small electric sign in the taxi's front window will flash red or green; it's free if the sign is red. Make sure the driver starts the meter. If the driver asks if it's your first time in Thailand and it is, say no and you shouldn't have any problems. Rigged meters are very, very rare.

Fares start at 35B and go up with time and distance. Expressway fares and a long wait in Bangkok's notorious traffic jams will jack up the fare a bit, but the 36km (22mi) from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the riverside hotels along Charoen Krung Road, for example, will still cost less than 300B. You will pay expressway fees (30B to 70B) as you travel.

The vast majority of Thai taxi drivers are amiable and honest, and they'll be happy to humor your efforts at the Thai language. Translation apps have made it easier than ever to communicate. Drivers often work 12 hours a day, six or seven days a week, for little profit. While it's not required, a tip of even 20B is appreciated.

Three ride-hailing apps operate in Thailand: Grab , Bolt and inDrive . While an app will let you know the fare ahead of time, you’ll probably pay more than if you flag down a passing taxi. As elsewhere in the region, drivers dislike hailing apps' impact on the local transport industry. There are so many taxis circulating in most parts of Bangkok – before you open a hailing app, look around to see if you can flag down a taxi on your own. 

Try out a túk-túk or motorsai 

Most tourists want to give a three-wheeled open-air túk-túk a whirl at least once but, unless you're very good at haggling, a trip will be more costly than one by taxi – drivers tend to open with a 100B bid. Túk-túk are useful, though, for hauling bulky purchases. 

Ignore drivers who make promises of very cheap fares, tell you that an attraction such as Wat Pho is "closed today" or want to make a quick detour at a jewelry store: they're running a vintage scam. Near the túk-túk lined up outside large markets like Big C, there will often be a board posted in both Thai and English with set fares to common destinations.

The drivers of motorcycle taxis ( motorsai ) have similar boards set up near popular bus stops and commuter train exits such as Chatuchak Park and the Airport Rail Link's terminus. Otherwise, you need to haggle with the orange-vested drivers who cluster around busy intersections. If you know the words for numbers in Thai, you can probably shave off 20B to 50B. Ask the driver to lend you a helmet. 

Getting from and to Suvarnabhumi Airport

Operating from 6am to midnight, the 28km-long Airport Rail Link is the swiftest and least stressful way to travel to and from Bangkok's principal airport . The eight-station train runs westward from the airport's basement level, where there are machines for changing paper currency and purchasing tokens with coins. The fare ranges from 15B to 45B, depending on destination. Get off at Rail Link’s Hua Mak station to switch to the MRT system’s own  Hua Mark station; get off at Makkasan station to transfer to the MRT's Phetchaburi station. The Skytrain can be accessed from Phaya Thai station, the Rail Link's final destination. Note that the Airport Link, Skytrain and MRT each have their own payment system.

A non-stop shuttle bus runs in both directions between Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports from 5am to midnight. It's free but you need to show your onward ticket.

Getting from and to Don Mueang Airport

The good news is that an MRT station now serves Don Mueang Airport , the hub for budget airlines flying domestic and short-haul international routes. The bad news is that the Dark Red Line's Don Mueang station probably won't be of any use to you, unless you're heading to or from Krung Thep Aphiwat, the enormous new central inter-city railway station in the Bang Sue neighborhood.

For many more travelers, the cheapest and most convenient option is one of four air-conditioned shuttle buses running into the city. Their stops are clearly marked just outside the airport doors. Collected on board, the fare runs from 30B to 50B. Operating daily from 7:30am to midnight, both A1 and A2 shuttles have stops near Chatuchak Park, where passengers can access either the Skytrain's Mo Chit station or the MRT's Chatuchak station. A3's stops include Pratunaam and Lumphini Park. Operating from 7am to 10 pm, the A4 terminates at Sanam Luang and Khao San Road.

On the ground level of both domestic and international terminals is a “Limo Bus” desk. The Airport Limo Bus Express will take you directly to Khao San Road.  At 150B, it’s more expensive than the A4 shuttle, but is more comfortable, offers Wifi and has fewer stops.

Get to your hotel safely using the Bangkok airports' public taxi system

Whether you arrive late at night or just want a hassle-free path to your hotel, both Suvaranabhumi and Don Mueang airports have organized a safe system for matching passengers with public taxi drivers.

At Suvarnabhumi Airport, go to Level 1, which is the ground and arrivals level. At Don Mueang, go to the ground floor. At both airports, look for the metered taxi desk inside a roped-off seating area. Get a ticket from the queue machine. Although many people may be ahead of you, the process moves quickly. When your number comes up, the clerk will ask your destination and give you a numbered ticket. Hold onto it. If you later have a complaint, the desk has a record of the taxi you were assigned.

Outdoors, you will be matched up with a taxi and the driver informed of your destination.  Make sure he starts the meter. All the drivers have been certified by the Airports authority. In return, you pay the driver a 50B surcharge in addition to your fare and the tolls (50B and 70B) if you choose the expressway, 

Accessible transportation

Bangkok is certainly an obstacle course for the mobility impaired – expect broken sidewalks and very few ramps and curb cuts. The shining exception is the light-rail system. Immediately inside the sliding doors of the trains of the Airport Railway Link, Skytrain and MRT are four seats designated as a priority for the disabled, elderly and pregnant women. 

Elevators link the levels of Suvarnabhumi Airport to the basement and the Airport Railway Link. But the trains themselves can only be accessed by manual wheelchairs. As with the other two train systems, station attendants are happy to assist the blind and those in wheelchairs. 

All of the MRT trains can be accessed by pairs of elevators: the first elevator goes from the outdoor road level to the payments and turnstile platform; the second from that platform up to the train level. However, five MRT stations have a major drawback: the outdoor elevator is only on one side of the road. These stations are Lat Prao, Ratachadapisek, Sutthisan, Huai Kwang and Thailand Cultural Centre.    

Among the Skytrain stations, only thirteen have full elevator (and thus wheelchair) access. They are Asoke, Ang Chai, Bang Na, Bearing, Chong Nonsi, Krung thon Buri, Mo Chit; On Nut; Pho Nimit; Punnawithi; Talat Phlu, Udom Suk, Wong Wian Yai and Wutthakat.  

Keep planning your trip to Bangkok:

Revel in Bangkok's excellent food scene with  Local Bites: the best places to eat and drink in Bangkok Discover fun for the whole family with  Your ultimate guide to visiting Bangkok with kids   Wander further afield with The best day trips to escape Bangkok's crowd Create a budget-friendly itinerary with  23 free things to do in Bangkok to get more bang for your baht

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated Apr 18, 2024.

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