Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. From its vibrant nightlife to its rich culture and delicious food, Bangkok has something for everyone. In this article, we explore the top things to do in Bangkok, so you can make the most of your trip.
Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
A visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew is a must-do on any Bangkok itinerary. The Grand Palace is a vast complex of buildings that served as the residence of the king of Thailand until 1925. The palace is adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf, making it an excellent example of traditional Thai architecture.
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace. The temple houses a small jade statue of Buddha, which is considered to be one of the most famous and revered religious icons in Thailand.
Enjoy a drink with the best view of the city
Bangkok is a lively metropolis with numerous tall buildings adorned with rooftop bars, providing young partygoers with an ideal spot to enjoy the dazzling cityscape at night..
One recommendation for you is the Vertigo and Moon Bar on the 61st floor of Banyan Tree Hotel, which has the most beautiful view of Bangkok City.
Explore the Food Scene in Bangkok
Thailand is famous for its delicious street food, and Bangkok is no exception. The city’s food scene is diverse and offers something for every taste bud.
From the famous Pad Thai and green curry to the lesser-known som tum (papaya salad) and khao soi (curry noodle soup), Bangkok’s street food is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Some of the best places to sample Bangkok’s street food are Chinatown, Khao San Road, and Soi Rambuttri.
Experience the Nightlife in Bangkok
Bangkok’s nightlife is legendary, and for good reason. The city has everything from rooftop bars and nightclubs to street parties and live music venues.
If you’re looking for a party, head to Khao San Road or Sukhumvit Road, where you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs. For a more laid-back experience, head to one of the city’s many rooftop bars, such as Sky Bar or Vertigo and Moon Bar.
Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world, with over 15,000 stalls spread over 35 acres.
The market sells everything from clothing and accessories to antiques and souvenirs. It’s easy to get lost in the maze of stalls, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
What sets this place apart is the opportunity to haggle over prices like in traditional markets. Instead of paying inflated prices for tourists, you can purchase your desired items at fair local prices. Moreover, once you’re done shopping, you can fully experience Bangkok’s and Thailand’s culinary culture by indulging in a wide variety of unique and tempting dishes.
Coconut ice cream at Chatuchak Weekend Market | must things to do in bangkok
Take a Boat Tour of Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok, and a boat tour is an excellent way to explore the city from a different perspective. You can take a public ferry or hire a private longtail boat to explore the river and its canals.
Along the way, you’ll see some of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.
Visit Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The temple is famous for its distinctive Khmer-style spires, which are decorated with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain.
Visitors can climb to the top of the central spire for spectacular views of the river and the city.
See the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is home to the largest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. The statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high and is covered in gold leaf.
The temple complex also offers traditional Thai massage, making it an excellent place to relax and unwind.
Discover the Jim Thompson House Museum
The Jim Thompson House Museum is a tribute to the American businessman who revitalized the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s.
The museum is located in a beautiful traditional Thai-style house, which was relocated to Bangkok from Ayutthaya. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Thompson’s life and legacy.
Get a Thai Massage
Thai massage is world-famous for its combination of stretching, acupressure, and energy work. There are countless massage parlors in Bangkok, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end luxury spas.
Some of the best places to get a Thai massage in Bangkok are Wat Pho, Health Land Spa, and Perception Blind Massage.
Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park
Ayutthaya was once the capital of Thailand and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical park is home to several ancient temples and ruins, including Wat Mahathat, which houses the famous Buddha head entwined with tree roots.
The park is easily accessible from Bangkok by train or bus.
Watch Muay Thai
Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a popular martial art in Thailand. Watchinga live Muay Thai fight is a thrilling experience and a great way to experience Thai culture.
There are several venues in Bangkok where you can watch Muay Thai fights, such as the famous Lumpinee and Rajadamnern stadiums.
Visit Dusit Zoo
Dusit Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Thailand. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals from around the world, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes.
Visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake or enjoy a picnic in the park.
- Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Ticket price: USD 1.40 – 3.00
Participate in Songkran Water Festival
Songkran is the Thai New Year festival, which takes place in mid-April. The festival is celebrated by throwing water on each other, symbolizing purification and renewal.
Bangkok’s streets turn into a giant water fight during the festival, making it a fun and memorable experience for visitors.
Enjoy the art of puppetry in Bangkok
Traditional Thai puppetry is an ancient art form that has been passed down through generations. The puppets are made from wood, cloth, and papier-mâché and are controlled by skilled puppeteers.
The Joe Louis Puppet Theatre in Bangkok is one of the best places to see traditional Thai puppetry.
Explore Sathorn Unique Tower
Sathorn Unique Tower is an abandoned skyscraper in Bangkok that has become a popular destination for urban explorers. The tower was originally intended to be a luxury condominium but was abandoned during the financial crisis of 1997.
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, although it is not officially open to the public.
Visit Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park is an oasis of calm in the heart of Bangkok. The park covers over 142 acres and offers a range of activities, including jogging, cycling, and picnicking.
Visitors can also rent a boat and paddle around the lake, or watch a traditional Thai dance performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre.
Explore the Chinatown of Bangkok
Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood known for its food stalls, gold shops, and street markets.
Visitors can try traditional Chinese dishes, such as dim sum and shark fin soup, or explore the many shops and stalls selling everything from souvenirs to Chinese medicine.
Take the BTS train (Skytrain)
The BTS, or Skytrain, is an elevated rapid transit system that provides an easy and efficient way to travel around Bangkok.
The system covers most of the city’s main attractions, and tickets are affordable and easy to purchase. Taking the BTS is also a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city.
Experience the Chatuchak Weekend Market
We’ve already mentioned Chatuchak Weekend Market, but it deserves another mention as one of the top things to do in Bangkok.
The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays and offers a dizzying array of goods, from clothing and accessories to furniture and antiques. It’s easy to spend a whole day exploring the market, so make sure to come prepared.
Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
In addition to taking a boat tour of the river, visitors can also take a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Several companies offer dinner cruises, which include a buffet dinner, live music, and spectacular views of the city at night.
When visiting Bangkok, it is essential to experience the exploration of the Chao Phraya River. This renowned river holds great significance in Thai folklore and is adorned with tall riverside buildings and numerous famous temples in Bangkok. Its picturesque beauty and unique ambiance make it a rare sight that should not be missed during your travels.
Some of the accompanying services when going on a cruise are very interesting, including feeding fish, enjoying food, and watching traditional Thai dances.
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Ticket price: 150 baht (about USD 4.26)
Discover Siam Paragon shopping mall
Siam Paragon is one of the largest and most luxurious shopping malls in Bangkok. The mall features over 250 stores, including high-end fashion brands and luxury boutiques.
Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities, such as watching a movie at the cinema or dining at one of the many restaurants.
Visit the National Museum Bangkok
The National Museum Bangkok is home to a vast collection of artifacts and artwork, which provide a glimpse into Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The museum covers over 40 acres and includes several buildings, including the former Royal Palace.
Visitors can see everything from ancient Buddhist art to traditional Thai costumes.
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Conclusion
Bangkok is a city that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich culture, sampling its delicious food, or partying the night away, Bangkok has something for everyone. From its famous landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew to its hidden gems like Sathorn Unique Tower and traditional puppetry shows, Bangkok is a city that rewards exploration and adventure.
