27 Best Things to Do in Bangkok
What is Bangkok Most Famous For?
The best things to do in Bangkok tell the story of this fascinating city which began as a small trading center and port community on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River some 200 years ago. Today, while the city is up to speed with modern times, the grandeur and glory of its illustrious past still prevail.
Be it dazzling temples, spectacular palaces, a world-famous floating market, or colorful Chinatown, each of these famous Bangkok places has an intriguing story to tell.
What are the best things to do in Bangkok?
1. Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Two of Thailand’s most sacred relics
Good for: Families, History, Photo
The Grand Palace and Wat Prakaew command respect from all who have walked in their grounds. Built in 1782, and serving as the home of Thai Kings and the Royal court for 150 years, The Grand Palace continues to leave visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detailing.
Meanwhile, Wat Pra Kaew enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), a sacred Buddha sculpture that’s been meticulously carved from a single block of emerald. To see it is to believe it. Don’t forget to bring your camera. Read more
Location: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Open: Daily from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm
Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
2. Wat Pho
Sacred Buddhist temple complex in Old Town
Good for: Budget, History
There’s more to Wat Pho than its gigantic reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massages. This iconic temple harbors a fascinating collection of murals, inscriptions, and sculptures that delve into various subjects, from warfare and astronomy to archaeology.
This vast temple complex also contains a landscaped garden with stone sculptures, stupas adorned with glazed porcelain, a souvenir shop, and the College of Traditional Medicine. The ferry to Wat Pho operates from 9 am to 6 pm, 7-days-a-week. Ferry tickets cost 10 THB per person. Read more
Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Open: Daily from 8 am to 7.30 pm
Phone: +66 83 057 7100
Wat Pho
3. Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Dare to explore its neon-soaked streets
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Photo
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a colorful, exotic, and pleasingly chaotic area that’s packed with market stalls and probably the highest concentration of gold shops in the city. During major festivities like Chinese New Year and the Vegetarian Festival, the dynamism and spirit of celebration spreads across town like wildfire.
After dark, the district becomes bathed in neon signage and foodies descend on its streets to dine at its many atmospheric restaurants. Swing by Laoteng for dim sum, Hagow for its famous braised pork belly, or Red Rose for its traditional decor, pineapple fried rice, and crispy skin duck. Read more
Location: Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
Open: 24/7. Shop and restaurant times vary.
Chinatown (Yaowarat)
4. Sky Bar Bangkok
For panoramic susnet vistas and posh cocktails
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Photo
Sky Bar boasts sweeping views from the top of State Tower, one of Bangkok’s tallest buildings. With its highly visible golden dome, the bar is tucked away in a corner of the award-winning, open-air Sirocco restaurant on the 64th floor. Sky Bar’s counter is illuminated and changes color every few minutes.
Sky Bar is where you’ll find some of the best live jazz in Bangkok. Also located at the Dome is Distil, another place where everyone likes to be seen. Part DJ-helmed club, part smoking lounge, and part restaurant, Distil serves fine single-malt Scotches like Macallan and Glenmorangie. Read more
Location: 64th Floor, State Tower Bangkok, 1055 Si Lom Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Open: Daily from 5 pm to 12.30 am
Phone: +66 2 624 9555
Sky Bar Bangkok
5. Chatuchak Weekend Market
The largest market in Thailand
Good for: Shoppers, Budget
Once popular among wholesalers and traders, Chatuchak Weekend Market has reached landmark status as a must-visit place for tourists. Its sheer size and diverse collections of merchandise will bring any seasoned shoppers to their knees.
The market is home to more than 15,000 market stalls. On a typical weekend, more than 200,000 visitors come here to sift through the goods on offer. Shop vintage clothing, tasty street food, kitschy souvenirs, and glamorous Thai jewelry. Read more
Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Open: Tuesday–Thursday from 5 am to 10 pm, Friday–Sunday from 5 am to midnight (closed on Monday)
Phone: +66 2 272 4270
Chatuchak Weekend Market
6. Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
Monumental riverside temple with glorious golden spires
Good for: History, Nightlife, Photo
The impressive silhouette of Wat Arun’s towering spires is one of the most recognized in Southeast Asia. Constructed during the first half of the 19th century in the ancient Khmer style, the stupa showcasing ornate floral patterns is decked out in glazed porcelain. It’s especially stunning up close.
Apart from its beauty, Wat Arun symbolizes the birth of the Rattanakosin Period and the founding of the new capital after the fall of Ayutthaya. Photograph this extraordinary relic by buying tickets to enter the grounds or glimpse it from across the river. Read more
Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm
Phone: +66 2 891 2185
Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
7. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
See the boats and their colorful wares up-close
Good for: Food, Photo, Shoppers
The pioneer of Bangkok floating markets, Damnoen Saduak continues to offer an authentic experience despite its increasingly touristy atmosphere. Imagine dozens of wooden row boats floating by, each laden to the brim with farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Food vendors fill their vessels with cauldrons and charcoal broils, ready to whip up a bowl of ‘boat noodles’ or seafood skewers upon request. The market is around 100 km southwest of Bangkok. You can head there yourself or join a knowledgeable tour group. Read more
Location: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Open: Daily from 8 am to 4 pm
Phone: +66 85 222 7470
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
8. Jim Thompson’s House
An elegant art collection inside a Thai-style teak house
Good for: History, Photo
Jim Thompson’s three decades of dedication to the revival of Thai silk, then a dying art, changed the industry forever. After he mysteriously disappeared into the jungles of Malaysia, he left a legacy behind, which is reflected through his vast collections of Thai art and antiques.
The exquisite collections are now on display at the Jim Thompson House and Museum. It’s a lovely complex of six Thai-style teakwood houses that are preserved in their original glory. Read more
Location: 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm
Phone: +66 2 216 7368
Jim Thompson’s House
9. Asiatique: The Riverfront
Open-air mall on the edge of the Chao Phraya River
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Shoppers
Asiatique: The Riverfront is home to both a livewire night bazaar and a super-swish mall. You can find it 10 minutes downriver from the Saphan Taksin BTS Skytrain Station. Once a bustling international trade port, it’s since been transformed with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants housed inside a huge replica warehouse complex.
Window shop upscale boutiques, pick up gifts from local vendors, or treat yourself to something special. Shows are performed nightly—book tickets to the Calypso Ladyboy Cabaret, the Muay Thai extravaganza, or a classic Thai puppet performance.
Location: 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Open: Daily from 11 am to midnight
Phone: +66 92 246 0812
Asiatique: The Riverfront
10. Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop at Banyan Tree
Sip drinks high above the city
Good for: Food, Luxury, Nightlife
Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop at Banyan Tree is an open-air bar and restaurant located 61 floors above the bustling streets of Bangkok. Indulge in some of the world’s finest Champagne, exotic cocktails, and wine-by-the-glass in its swanky bar area, or grab a table for an romantic twilight dinner.
The venue’s magical atmosphere and astounding vistas make for a truly memorable evening, weather permitting. A telescope is available for star-gazing, and on most nights there is live jazz. Due to its popularity, reservations are required for the restaurant. Read more
Location: 61st Floor, Banyan Tree Bangkok, 21/100 S Sathon Rd, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Open: Daily from 5 pm to 1 am (dinner from 6 pm to 10.30 pm)
Phone: +66 2 679 1200
Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop at Banyan Tree
11. Khao San Road
The beating heart of the backpacker district
Good for: Budget, Food, Nightlife
If Bangkok is a city where East meets West, then Khao San Road is the scene of their collision. Travelers from every corner of the world book into hostels and hotels here, looking to spend their evenings in pulsing nightclubs, eclectic markets, and converted cocktail bars. Everywhere you go, you’ll find food vendors serving dishes that are tamed to suit the Western palate.
This area is extremely popular with the backpacker crowd who use Bangkok as a hub to explore all of Thailand and Southeast Asia. Read more
Location: Khao San, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Khao San Road
12. Chao Phraya River and Waterways
The aquatic artery of Bangkok
Good for: History, Photo
One of the city’s most scenic areas, the Chao Phraya riverside reflects a constantly changing scene day and night: water-taxis and heavily laden rice barges chug upstream, set against a backdrop of glittering temples and luxury hotels.
The areas from Wat Arun temple to Phra Sumeru Fortress are home to some of the oldest settlements in Bangkok, particularly Bangkok Noi and its charming ambience of stilt houses that flank the complex waterways. Along the river, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants that offer beautiful views, day or the evening. Grab a meal at one and watch the sun set. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Chao Phraya River and Waterways
13. Bangkok Floating Markets
An awe-inspiring Thai experience
Good for: Food, Photo, Shoppers
The floating markets of Bangkok are a must during any visit. Among them is Amphawa—an hour and a half south of the capital. It may not be as large as Damnoen Saduak, but it’s more authentic. It’s become such a magnet for Thai weekenders that food stalls have grown from the riverbanks and stretched far into the surrounding streets.
The main draw is the seafood that’s grilled precariously on wooden boats, moored around a famous central bridge. Sample an appetizing array of squid, prawns, shellfish. The smell is simply irresistible and customers flock to each side of the river from noon until late in the evening. Closer to Bangkok you can visit floating markets like Khlong Lat Mayom. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
14. Lumphini Park
Bangkok’s answer to New York’s Central Park
Good for: Couples, Families, Budget
Lumphini Park, named after the birthplace of the Lord Buddha in Nepal, is one of the largest parks in downtown Bangkok. It’s as big as 93 soccer fields and houses numerous benches, walking paths, and picnic spots, as well as a variety of flora and fauna.
Lumphini Park appeals to just about everyone—you’ll often find the elderly practicing tai chi on its lawns and couples lounging lakeside, spread out on a picnic blanket. This green space is often populated by families, especially on weekends. Don’t forget to ride a swan boat or photograph the monitor lizards. Read more
Location: Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Open: Daily from 4.30 am to 10 pm
Phone: +66 2 252 7006
Lumphini Park
15. Soi Rambuttri
Atmospheric city street with plenty of attractions
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Shoppers
Soi Rambuttri is Khao San’s more attractive, well-behaved brother. This street gives you an idea of how Bangkok used to look before all the skyscrapers arrived. Leafy banyan trees shade the sidewalks and the vibe sways more towards local than backpacker, despite a number of them now choosing to stay here rather than on the infamous Khao San Road.
Soi Rambuttri boasts a great mix of guesthouses, restaurants, bars, and street food stalls. Most of the shops are similar to those you’d find anywhere in the area and they sell the usual T-shirts, DVDs, and kitschy tourist trinkets. You can explore the entire horseshoe-shaped road on foot within 30 minutes. Read more
Location: Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Soi Rambuttri
16. Bangkok Museums
From rare antiquities to extraordinary artwork
Good for: Families, History, Photo
Bangkok museums are among the city’s finest cultural venues. They’re where you can admire centuries-old artifacts, sacred Buddhist relics, and masterful modern art pieces. Some are housed in buildings just as interesting as their contents.
Bangkok’s many museums exhibit some of the most sublime and strangest collections of objects you can imagine, giving you wonderful insight into Thailand’s colorful culture and unique heritage. Some of the best venues include the National Museum of Bangkok, Museum Siam, Royal Barges National Museum, and the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
17. Bangkok Temples
Beautiful Buddhist sites
Good for: History, Photo
You can find Bangkok temples spread throughout the city. The three most famous ones are Wat Pra Kaew, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. Once you’ve seen them, there are still many others worth visiting.
Fortunately, many of the most famous temples in Bangkok are located near the Grand Palace, which makes for a day of easy exploration. With any temple visit, remember to not only bring your camera but also to wear appropriate attire: we recommend long pants and tops that cover your shoulders, as well as proper shoes (no flip-flops). Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
18. Calypso Cabaret
Famous ladyboy extravaganza
Good for: Nightlife, Photo, Unusual
Calypso Cabaret in Bangkok is an entertaining show that takes place every night at Asiatique: The Riverfront. Thailand’s katoeys (ladyboys) are some of the most beautiful (and convincing) transvestites in the world, mostly accepted and embraced by a highly tolerant Thai society.
The ladyboy cabaret show takes place inside Warehouse 3, near Asiatique’s town square. Decorated with rainbow neon lights, the auditorium can accommodate up to 350 people per show. Tickets come with a free drink and it’s possible to purchase a dinner and show package.
Location: Asiatique The Riverfront (Warehouse 3), 2194 Charoenkrung 72-76 Rd, Prayakrai, Bangkorlaem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Open: Daily from 9 am to 9.30 pm
Phone: +66 86 349 1937
Calypso Cabaret
19. Phra Sumen Fort
Octagonal bunker circa 1783
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
Fourteen forts were built during the reign of King Rama I to protect the borders of Bangkok’s Old City, but most have disappeared over the years. Only Phra Sumen Fort and Mahakhan Fort have managed to remain.
This pale white concrete fort with battlements is nestled in the quiet Suan Santichaiparkran Park, which straddles the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It’s octagonal in shape and unlike any other structure in the greater Bangkok area. You can get there by taxi or the Chao Phraya Express Boat (disembark at Phra Athit Pier).
Location: Phra Athit Rd, Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Open: Daily from 8 am to 9 pm
Phra Sumen Fort
20. Bangkok Markets
The best places for bargains
Good for: Budget, Food, Shoppers
Bangkok markets serve up an atmospheric shopping experience compared to the air-conditioned megamalls of the city. Explore mazes of alleyways that are lined with vendors selling everything from trendy clothing and knock-off watches to kitschy souvenirs. There are also markets dedicated to farm-fresh flowers and agricultural products like Pak Klong Talad, the biggest wholesale market in the capital.
In all, they offer excellent bargains as well as a glimpse into local life. For foodies, it’s a great opportunity to sample dishes you won’t find in most restaurants. Must-visit markets in Bangkok include the Chatuchak Weekend Market, while the Patpong, Khlong Thom, and Saphan Phut markets offer exciting shopping experiences after dark. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
21. Khlongs of Thonburi
A picturesque network of waterways
Good for: History, Photo, Unusual
Thonburi is the old Bangkok capital situated on the western banks of the Chao Phraya River. Having stayed an independent province until it was merged into Bangkok in 1972, Thonburi has avoided much of the modern development seen elsewhere.
Its manmade network of khlongs (canals), including Khlong Mon and Khlong Bangkok Noi, retain much of their ramshackle charm. Take a longtail boat ride along these passages, cruising past old wooden shophouses, ornate Buddhist temples, and locals selling goods from the water. Read more
Location: Thonburi, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Khlongs of Thonburi
22. Bangkok Parks
Discover the city’s urban oases
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families
Bangkok boasts a collection of beautiful parks that you can briefly escape to when the hustle and bustle of the city sidewalks are simply becoming too much. Parks in Bangkok provide residents and visitors with fresh air and lots of healthy outdoor activities in lush, landscaped areas.
Some offer picturesque views of the capital’s skyline, with swathes of green lawns, expansive lakes, and dedicated bicycle and jogging tracks found throughout. Most Bangkok parks feature additional sports facilities such as tennis courts and soccer fields, making them a convenient spot for competitive matches. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
23. Baiyoke Tower II
An observation deck with dazzling views
Good for: History, Nightlife, Photo
At 304 meters tall, Baiyoke Tower II is one of Bangkok’s (and Thailand’s) tallest buildings. This 88-storey building boasts a public observatory deck on the 77th floor, while the top floor is an open-air, 360-degree revolving roof deck (admission fee applies). Both venues offer a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling Thai capital. Baiyoke Sky Hotel can be found from the 22nd to the 74th floor.
Taking in the Bangkok skyline from your hotel window is one thing, but admiring it from the 84th-floor outdoor revolving deck is another experience entirely! Up there, the excitement, open space, and the sense that you’re on top one of Thailand’s tallest buildings makes all the difference. Read more
Location: Baiyoke Tower 2, 222 Ratchaprarop Rd, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Open: Skywalk and Observation deck: daily from 10 am to 10 pm
Phone: +66 2 656 3000
Baiyoke Tower II
24. Democracy Monument
Commemorating the 1932 Siamese coup d’etat
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
Circled by perpetual swarms of traffic, the Democracy Monument on Ratchadamnoen Road is a large western-style symbol of Thailand’s adoption of democracy and liberty. Field Marshall Plaek Pibulsonggram commissioned it to commemorate the June 1932 military coup that led to the country’s first democratic constitution in place of absolute rule.
Its sail-like structures offers a fantastic backdrop for selfies. Alternatively, photograph them from afar to capture the full majesty of the monument.
Location: Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Open: 24/7
Democracy Monument
25. Muay Thai in Bangkok
Discover the drama of this ancient martial art
Good for: Adventure, Unusual
Though Muay Thai seems like a violent sport, learning it properly can be a fun and worthwhile experience. One of the best places to go (if you want a comprehensive learning experience) is the Muay Thai Institute in Rangsit, just 12 km northeast of Don Mueang International Airport.
There are also a vast array of Muay Thai gyms in central Bangkok if you just want to enjoy a few rounds of Thai kickboxing. What’re more the Muay Thai Live Show at Asiatique chronicles the enthralling history of Thai kickboxing. Read more
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
26. King Rama I Monument
Built in 1932 to commemorate the first king of Krung Rattanakosin
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The monument of King Rama I, otherwise known as King Puttayodfa, is a double life size monument of the Thai royal that was built to mark the city’s 150th anniversary in 1932. It was erected along with the Puttayodfa Memorial Bridge, next to which it sits.
The monument was designed by HRH Prince Naris and architect Silpa Bhirasri sculpted it in bronze. Born on March 20th, 1736, King Rama I was the first king in the Chakri Dynasty, which continues to this day. He ascended to the throne on April 6th, 1782, and died 27 years later.
Location: Prachathipok Rd, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Open: 24/7
King Rama I Monument
27. Victory Monument
Commemorates the nation’s victory in the Franco-Thai War
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
Victory Monument in Bangkok marks a brief and relatively bloodless war that led to Thailand regaining disputed land on its borders with Indochina. It was built to commemorate the country’s victory over French colonialists.
If you travel by Skytrain to Mo Chit (en route to Chatuchak Weekend Market), you’ll catch the best view possible of this large military monument. Its giant obelisk makes for wonderful photographs and will particularly appeal to history buffs.
Location: Phahonyothin Rd, Thanon Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand
Open: 24/7
Victory Monument
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