The capital city of Thailand is Bangkok; it is a city that offers a blend of the modern-day experience on the streets of Asia with culture and modern advances. Counted among the best city break destinations in the region, the municipality provides diverse travelers’ experiences ranging from the classics to the modern.
If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting destination, you might be wondering about the best things to do in Bangkok. From the major attractions to off-beaten-track places of interest, this guide will help you fully utilize your time in one of the world’s liveliest cities.
1. Discover the Grand Palace
It is a place to visit, especially if the incredible and impressive Grand Palace has never been visited before. Constructed in the year 1782 as the royal palace, the palace has been the official abode of kings of the Rama dynasties. It is one of the best things to do in Bangkok.
Inside its precincts is Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which contains an important image of the Emerald Buddha. Strolling through the ornate halls and courtyards of the Grand Palace is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bangkok.
2. Visit Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
Some of the attractions that draw tourists to the city include the famous Wat Arun, popularly known as the Temple of Dawn. This ancient temple situated on the twine of the Chao Phraya River comes to life in the morning and evening when it is silhouetted against the skyline and is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Go up the temple and decrease views of the river and the whole city from there.
3. Explore Chatuchak Weekend Market
The Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of a kind; shopping here has its unique feel. As one of the largest markets in the world, comprising over 15,000 stalls, this green market is a hub for shoppers on the lookout for raw deals.
Yes, everything from a hat and shoes to curtains and refrigerator magnets can be purchased here. Sampling street food at the market is also one of the best things for food lovers to do in Bangkok.
4. Cruise the Chao Phraya River
One can also explore Bangkok through water taxis that ply up and down the Chao Phraya River. What you can do is grab a scenic view of the city skyline, go sightseeing, see riverine attractions, and visit cultural monuments—Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. The most recommended way of exploring the river at night is by going on a dinner cruise.
5. Visit Wat Pho: Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Located behind Op-Or today, Wat Pho is simply one of Bangkok’s oldest temples that also holds considerable architectural importance. The statue is as long as 46 meters, is gilded with gold leaf, and has to be seen with one’s mouth wide open. The temple is also famous for being the source of Thai massage courses, so it is wise to take time for a massage after having walked all over.
6. Indulge in Thai Street Food
Bangkok is renowned for its street food, and trying the local delicacies is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Visit places such as Yaowarat Road (Chinatown) or Khao San Road for delicious breakfast items that include Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and Tom Yum Soup. The alacritous food carts and the energetic milieu make for the attraction.
7. Explore the Jim Thompson House
The visited site Jim Thompson House provides an idea of the Thai architectural aesthetic and art. Former home of an American businessman who went missing in the mid-70s and turned this abode into a fine museum showcasing antique items. The building itself is generously positioned in vast gardens, making it rather secluded from the noisy, bustling city life.
8. Enjoy the Vibrant Nightlife
This Thai capital is a city of lights and fun, and tourists are certain to find an activity that they like. There are a lot of possibilities in this city, from the open-air bar on the roof to the sporting nightclubs, dance or shisha places, or cultural shows are some of the best things to do in Bangkok. “Sukhumvit Road or RCA for the wonderful nightlife, or try the riverside for more slow-paced drinking.
9. Stroll Through Lumpini Park
A place like Lumpini Park in the middle of Bangkok city proves how people can spend time with nature without being surrounded by traffic. It is within the park that people can take a jog, ride a bicycle, or take a stroll around the park beside the lake. It is also an excellent place to explore the life of the homeless population and recreational experiences.
10. Experience the Floating Markets
It is very interesting to visit a market that is afloat, or even a floating market, which is one of the most interesting attractions in Bangkok. Boat markets that currently exist in Thailand include Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, where marketers sell their products from boats. Why not whip up some sweets with locally sourced apples while enjoying the unique energetic ambiance of a market?
11. Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya
Sitting approximately one hour out of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO site where visitors can learn a great deal about Thailand’s history. Sites to which you can visit include the ruins of the ancient settlements, the temples of the ancient city, and learning about the former capital and its historical past. A day trip to Ayutthaya is one of the best things to do in Bangkok for history enthusiasts.
12. Visit the Erawan Museum
The Erawan Museum is famous for displaying a big statue of a three-headed elephant, which is a valuable image of Thai culture which makes it one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Within it, you will see well-done stylized premises, as well as an exposition of the religious hall and items. The museum is stunning and has amazing levels of detail both inside and out, including its beautiful gardens.
13. Shop at Iconsiam
For a more premium shopping experience, get to one of the fanciest shopping centers in Bangkok, known as Iconsiam. The mall has all the big-name brands you would expect as well as local designers and is also home to a large food court. The place is well located, right at the riverside, bringing out the life and beauty of the river.
14. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
The bamboo train is a unique type of transport that can be visited, while speedboats and Muay Thai—the traditional fighting sport from Thailand—are best for true lovers of sports and is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Watch a fight in a fighting stadium such as Lumpinee Boxing Stadium or Rajadamnern Stadium in order to see the art of this combat sport.
15. Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
It is important for lovers of arts to visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. This is a modern art gallery where people can find a range of paintings, sculptures, and even installations of both local and global artists. The center also contains workshops and often initiates events, so it can be considered a relative space.
16. Explore Chinatown
Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s most fascinating districts and offers plenty of markets, temples, and the best food markets in Bangkok. Stroll through the flowing markets, shop for souvenirs at this complex, tour the impressive Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), and taste Thailand’s fun-filled food and it is one of the best things to do in Bangkok.
17. Ride a Tuk-Tuk
It is impossible to get bored and/or not to try a tuk-tuk ride while traveling in Bangkok. Three-wheelers emitting thick black smoke are popular means of transport in Bangkok city. Although it is not a very efficient means of transportation, it is one of the most entertaining and exciting ones. It is one of the best things to do in Bangkok.
18. Visit the Baiyoke Sky Tower
Currently, one can get beautiful views of the Thai capital from the Baiyoke Sky Tower on the observation deck. Being one of the tallest structures in the city, it’s a great spot for people who like taking pictures. Savor food at a restaurant that rotates with incredible views of the city.
19. Experience Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique The Riverfront is actually a shopping complex that is an open structure situated at the riverbank of the Chao Phraya River. Being a commercial and recreational center, it is probably one of the best places to spend an evening in Nairobi. For tourists whose interest is architecture, history, and contemporary landmarks, do not leave for the city without visiting the famous Ferris wheel for views.
20. Take a Cooking Class
Prepare a tasty Thai dish by experiencing the cultures of Bangkok by taking the cooking class. Some vocational colleges provide culinary experiences where you can cook green curry, papaya salad, and spring rolls. It’s an appealing way to learn about Thai culture and not boring at all.
Conclusion
Cultural sightseeing sites and historical places, along with shopping centers, museums, parks, art galleries, etc., offer numerous activities in Bangkok that cater to all types of tourists.
No matter if you are discovering the country’s temples or monuments, eating street food, or shopping in open-air bazaars, the city is vivacious. By including these best things to do in Bangkok in your itinerary, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience in this incredible city.
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