Things to do in Bangkok

There’s something about Bangkok that keeps me coming back. It’s the city in Asia that I’ve visited the most – literally dozens of times – and it feels very familiar now.

But there’s also something about Bangkok that means I discover something new every time.

Sure, it’s partly because there are always new things popping up. But it’s also because there are so many layers to this city, so many different neighbourhoods to explore, that there’s always going to be somewhere I haven’t seen properly before.

At first glance, some people can be put off by the busy streets and chaotic centre of Bangkok – but it’s easy to look beyond that.

It can also sometimes be a bit confronting to find yourself amongst the hedonistic bars and constant offers of “massages” or “ping pong shows” that I wrote about here when I tried to put my thoughts about the city into words one time.

But, again, that’s just a tiny pocket of Bangkok and easy to avoid once you now where it is.

Instead, I think the best things to do in Bangkok revolve around its history, its food, and its local culture.

The main attractions in Bangkok like the Grand Palace and the temples are stunning and definitely worth seeing if you’ve never been before.

But you may find you get more enjoyment out of a bowl of noodle soup at a street market than from a grand monument. Eating is part of the experience in Bangkok and it’s worth planning your days around it.

I also think it’s worth doing at least one guided tour in Bangkok to learn about the city from a local. Whether it’s a food tour, a ‘hidden gems’ bike ride, or a tuk tuk tour at night, this is when you’ll start to learn more about Thailand and its capital.

Because I’ve got so many other stories about Bangkok, I’ll keep this introduction short and get straight into it. You won’t be able to fit all of these ideas into the one trip, but this is my ‘short list’ (it’s still long, sorry) of what to do in Bangkok.

Temples

There are over 400 temples in Bangkok, each providing a unique glimpse into local lives while showcasing impressive feats of architecture.

Add on the intricate designs, carved accents, and reliefs and you’ll start to see why some of these temples belong at the centre of your Bangkok experience.

And if you’re interested in seeing the top ones, I would recommend this excellent walking tour that takes you to the first three I’m going to mention!

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is an immense royal compound laden with grandeur, history, and opulence. If you’re looking for big landmarks, it’s one of the best things to do in Bangkok, and I’ve got a whole story about how to visit the Grand Palace.

At the heart of this huge complex of architectural brilliance lies Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most significant in all of Thailand.

The temple dates back to the late 18th century and was a long-time home for the King of Thailand. Its immaculate construction is adorned in rich ceramic tiles, and gold leaf ornamentation is spread throughout, while mythological symbolism is a common sight.

However, the most iconic part of the temple is the emerald Buddha itself. At 66cm, the striking statue is thought to have originated in India in the 15th century.

Wat Pho

One of Bangkok’s oldest temples, Wat Pho lies on the edge of the Chao Phraya River. Eye-catching murals and the presence of the Reclining Buddha welcome you and immediately draw you in.

When you visit Wat Pho, you’ll see the gold leaf exterior and decorations of mother-of-pearl. Then you’ll see the Buddha, all 46 metres, adorned in gold lying inside the sprawling temple.

Beyond this centrepiece, you’ll also be able to wander through walkways with sacred imagery. Stone statues showcase Chinese caricatures, Western characters, and Hindu hermits. You may even hear the stories of Thai students learning and practising traditional medicine here hundreds of years ago.

Wat Arun

Rising out of the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is unmistakable. The sharp, stepped tower stands out for its majestic, ancient Khmer design.

Known as the Temple of Dawn after the Hindu god, Aruna, Wat Arun is 82 metres high and is surrounded by four other smaller towers. In the darkness, each shimmer with golden light, beckoning you closer.

As the sun comes up, visitors flow in first to worship and second to climb the main prang up the edge of the temple. It’s incredibly steep and not for the faint of heart. But it’s here you’ll see the thousands of porcelain pieces creating a spectacular mix of colours.

Golden Mount

In the Old City, Golden Mount is not just captivating because of its shimmering golden colour, but because it looks down on Bangkok from a small mountain – in a city that is otherwise very flat!

The mountain (or, let’s call it what it really is – a hill) is man-made and you need to climb up the steps around to reach the Golden Mount (Wat Saket). There are around 300 steps to the stupa but along the way, there are small shrines and other interesting things to look at.

The golden tower, adorned statues, and delightful interior guide you through the stories of Wat Saket. From there, make your way to the temple’s edge where you are afforded magnificent views around Bangkok.

Travelling independently, you can get to all of these temples in a day, but keep in mind that walking between them will be quite hot and sweaty.

Neighbourhoods

Bangkok can often surprise travellers with its rich diversity of neighbourhoods and fantastic public transport. Although some of the best places to stay in Bangkok have become busy touristy areas, there are also local areas that are busy with daily life.

To see some different sides of Bangkok, mark out some time in your stay to wander through these neighbourhoods and explore the sights and the street food.

Chinatown

Great to walk around, with easy accessibility to the rest of the city, Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of my favourite neighbourhoods. The crammed, busy streets are embellished with head-turning neon, endless gold shops, atmospheric markets, and its own collection of temples.

But that’s just where the fun begins. As you wander without an agenda, there’s no telling what you could find, with narrow alleyways leading to hidden treats.

Talat Mai is a market that operates as it has for over 200 years, and you’ll also find a mix of international history. This includes the two Portuguese churches in the heart of the neighbourhood.

It’s also worth making an effort to find the tall Wat Traimit and the Chinese-style Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, both among the most interesting temples in Bangkok.

And another really interesting way to see Chinatown is in the evening, when it comes alive – so have a look at this fun Chinatown by night walking tour!

Khao San Road

Away from the busier areas like Sukhumvit and Silom, in the leafy walkable Banglamphu neighbourhood, Khao San Road is a backpacking mecca.

Just like when Leo bunked here on his way to The Beach, travellers from across the globe flock here and exchange stories over dozens of Singha. It’s where I always used to stay when I was younger and I loved the vibe.

Over the years, Khao San Road has changed a bit. It’s lost a bit of its bohemian atmosphere and the main strip is now lined with gift stores, quick eats, and international restaurants. There’s still a lot of nightlife but it’s less casual than it once was – in fact, it’s become quite a cool area for young Thais.

But there’s still something quintessentially Bangkok about Khao San Road and the wide-eyed backpackers it attracts. Off the main street, there are interesting roads to explore with nice cafes and quiet hostel bars. The river is also just here as well as lots of great street food – plus some of the city’s main sights are in walking distance.

Charoenkrung

Bangkok’s oldest road, Charoenkrung, may be historic but it’s the modern embodiment of the city’s personality.

Every neighbourhood in Bangkok is unique. Charoenkrung is more than that, though. It tells the tales of centuries past when it had wooden mansions and riverside trading facilities, while simultaneously being a cool new creative and caffeine hub.

Cafes and galleries are set along the historic street, with plenty to explore. The low-rise streets and old-school buildings are the backdrop for street art, while the brunch aromas waft through the air.

Head inside Speedy Grandma, Warehouse 30, or TCDC for Bangkok’s true creative revolution.

Come nightfall, you won’t be short of chic bars (hello Tropic City!), as well as fine… and non-fine dining.

Khlong Toey

You can stay cozy in Lumpini or Asok all you like, but Khlong Toey is the ying to Bangkok’s yang. The neighbourhood contrasts the towering skyscrapers with a community of more than 100,000 within two square kilometres.

I don’t like to use the word ‘slum’ but that’s the reputation parts of Khlong Toey has. But try not to think of that as a bad thing – what it really means is that this is not a glossy gentrified part of the city.

At the water level, buildings are set on stilts, with glimpses of the stagnant water below. It’s an immense difference between the opulent temples and the sky train that zips across the cityscape.

Within Khlong Toey, there are some wonderful examples of its local residents building social enterprise businesses, as I discuss in this story.

If you want to wander, visit the open-air fish and meat market, where the pungent air provides rich cultural insight. I recommend avoiding the neighbourhood at night, though.

Food and drink

You’ve likely had Thai food at home, from the classics like Pad Thai to perhaps some more niche recipes. But nothing beats the real thing.

Eating and drinking your way through the city is one of the best things to do in Bangkok – and it’s not just about the food, but also about the unique local experiences that’ll introduce you to.

Street Food

Speaking of doing things differently, street food is at the heart of cuisine in Bangkok. To try the city’s best eats, you’ll have to ditch the restaurants and get outside.

Hundreds of food carts and stalls transform Bangkok into an open-air buffet. You’ll never know what lies around the corner, although you may smell it first.

By simply exploring, you’ll come across Khai krata for breakfast, khao mun ghai (chicken rice) for lunch, and guay taew (Thai noodles) for dinner. The lack of planning often comes with the best rewards.

The key to street food is the vibe. If the locals are lining up, no matter how dodgy it looks, you should too.

Food tour

If you haven’t had much experience with street food or you’re not sure where to start in Bangkok, a food tour is an excellent way to sort through the exotic randomness of the city and try all the best stuff.

I love food tours because, as well as all the dishes you get to eat, the local guide always has handy city knowledge that you can use for the rest of your trip.

For a great Bangkok food experience, I would recommend this backstreets food tour that takes you into the city’s historic district and has more than 15 tastings, including local tom yum soup, dumplings, and satay chicken.

There are a few other fantastic Bangkok food tours here that I would also recommend:

Even if you’re short of time on your trip to Bangkok, I really think this is one of the best things you can do while you’re here.

Cooking class

So you’ve tried the luke chin moo (pork balls) and the hoi tod (fried mussels). What now? Well, you’ll be itching to bring the flavours home with you. There’s no better way to learn some authentic Thai recipes for your home kitchen than with a cooking class in Bangkok.

At this cooking class, your four-hour culinary adventure begins with a fun tuk-tuk ride to a local market. After picking out your fresh ingredients, you’ll get to work.

Over the course of your class, you’ll learn the tricks necessary to master four traditional Thai dishes. Once the work is done, the fun begins as you enjoy the fruits of your labour with a fantastic feast.

Michelin-starred restaurants

Time flies when you’re eating well. While the street food in Bangkok is excellent, on the other side of the coin is the city’s impressive collection of Michelin-starred restaurants. These foodie delights move beyond local cuisine into the realm of culinary brilliance, and there are over 30 Michelin-star restaurants in Bangkok to choose from.

As the status suggests, you really can’t go wrong. But some, like Le Normandie, have an elevated reputation. Established in 1958, this restaurant specialises in gourmet French cuisine, with guests also admiring the views of the Chao Phraya River.

For Thai cuisine, grab a table at Sorn, a restaurant so popular and delicious it doesn’t even need a website.

There are also quite a few ‘Bib Gourmand’ restaurants in Bangkok. These are cheap places that Michelin recommends for their quality and value. A good one to try because it’s close to a lot of Sukhumvit accommodation is Rung Rueang Pork Noodle.

Rooftop bars

OK, so you’ve seen The Hangover Part II and you want to add a rooftop bar to your Bangkok experience. Although I enjoyed the Sky Bar at Lebua (the one in the movie) when I first visited it about 20 years ago (?!), it’s now far too touristy, crowded, and overpriced.

Thankfully, there is no shortage of other amazing rooftop bars to choose from here in Bangkok. At the Aira Hotel, you’ll find the Mediterranean-infused Pastel Rooftop with panoramic views and live music.

In Silom is Scarlett Rooftop, an intimate wine bar with an outdoor lounge and postcard-worthy vista. At Red Square, you’ll have a front-row seat to the glistening night skyline; while 360-degree views and sunsets await at SOL and LUNA.

Nightlife districts

Rooftop bars are just one part of Bangkok’s nightlife. Throughout the city, you’ll find all kinds of bars, clubs, and music venues. With it all spread throughout the city, rather than just a single district, you’ll never be far from some blazing neon lights.

Young travellers will want to experience the hub of backpacker nightlife on Khao San Road at least once. The vibrant atmosphere is a welcoming introduction to the scene after dark in Bangkok.

From there, Route 66, ONYX, and Sing Sing become the domain of club-goers. Night markets light up neighbourhoods, including the waterfront at Asiatique.

Speaking of, the Patpong Night Market is fun for shopping and you can still avoid the city’s oldest red light district if you wish. Those looking for an intro into this side of Thailand would be best wandering the shimmering street of Soi Cowboy.

Shopping

It’s fair to say that most Thais love shopping (or, at the very least, window shopping) and if you’re a keen shopper yourself, you will likely end up brushing shoulders with lots of locals.

Whether it’s the more traditional markets or the luxury malls (good places to seek some relief from the beating sun), you’ll find shops and food courts are a hive of activity.

Chatuchak Market

Every weekend, the 15,000 stalls at Chatuchak Market become adorned with every type of item. The sprawling market – the largest in the country – is at first an attack on the senses at first glance.

But as you wander down the little alleys, you’ll start to find your bearings and get into the groove. Some sections, with their stalls of domestic goods, are an interesting insight into local life.

Others will present some decent souvenirs, while there’s also plenty to just experience without needing to buy anything.

The colours of both the culinary treats and craft goods are a feast for the eyes. I would recommend grabbing a meal (or two) from the many stalls cooking up fresh dishes.

Quite often you’ll find entertainment here at Chatuchak Market, perhaps even blasting techno music first thing in the morning, adding a beat and elevates the vibing as our browse the traditional crafts and infinite silk.

Flower markets

Sourced locally… and constantly… it’s rare to see a flower market low on produce or with dwindling petals here in Bangkok. In fact, if you’re feeling the urge to buy some roses at two o’clock in the morning, then I’ve got just the place for you!

The Bangkok Flower Market (Pak Khlong Talat) runs 24 hours a day. Mopeds fly by with packed bikes of flowers, filling up the stalls and ensuring they remain kaleidoscopic at all times.

Flowers may not be the most practical gift for family and friends back home. But the endless rows of jasmine, orchids, chrysanthemums, and lilies make for an incredible sight and it’s worth popping in – especially when there’s lots of activity in the morning.

Floating markets

Bangkok’s floating markets are a direct link to the city’s early trade. Back when the waterways stood between villages, they became the hub for buying, selling, and sustaining communities.

This tradition continues to this day, somewhat upheld by the fascination of travellers. The most popular, Damnoen Saduak, is packed with souvenirs and traditional eats. But it’s a hectic experience and with so many boats, you can’t always go at your own pace.

Transport is a little tricky so I would recommend a tour if you want to visit the floating markets.

There is this very affordable tour to the floating market that also includes the train market (more on that later). Or some other great choices here:

For other floating markets, the nearby Tha Ka market is much quieter, with a more local vibe. And if you’re looking to indulge in Thai cuisine and fresh seafood, then you might want to also consider Amphawa.

Mega malls

*Sigh*, you aren’t going to tell me about malls, are you? Well, yes, I am. This is because, with Bangkok’s modern evolution, malls are as much a part of the city experience as the street stalls outside.

These luxury mega malls are a fascinating, colourful, and air-conditioned glimpse into the lives of many Thais. Places like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld place Bangkok in the upper echelon of retail cities like New York and Paris.

These enormous complexes, laden with high-end goods, and some great food too, are a treat to explore. They’re also great for escaping the heat or a patch of torrential rain.

Every time I visit Bangkok, I seem to end up buying something in one of the malls, even if it’s just a new shirt to delay laundry day!

Museums

Bangkok’s museums provide a handy escape from the fun but exhausting chaos of Bangkok. They’re also a fantastic way to learn about the culture and heritage of Thailand, which can sometimes get a bit lost with all the modernity and fun touristy glitz.

There are quite a few museums in Bangkok, but these are the top ones I would recommend visiting.

Museum Siam

The first thing you’ll notice about Museum Siam is the stately nature of the Neoclassical facade. Constructed on the land of a former palace, the early 20th-century building was originally the offices of the Ministry of Commerce.

Inside, though, the exhibitions cover a much broader span of Thailand’s history. Across the museum’s 14 sections, you’ll embark on a journey that looks at some of the serious parts of the country’s heritage, but also some of the quirky things that modern visitors will appreciate.

I find that Museum Siam balances education and fun, ensuring each exhibit is interactive, light-hearted, and often moving. The section on Thai TV is an amusing eye-opener, and so too are the replica classrooms that make for some memorable photos.

Make sure you get the museum’s free audioguide to make the most of your visit.

National Museum

In the same complex as the Grand Palace, Bangkok’s National Museum was the first of its kind in Thailand. Not only is it home to the country’s largest collection of native art, but its array of artefacts offers a complete look into the nation’s history.

The National Museum was developed towards the end of the 19th century. It’s spread throughout a number of historic buildings that have the feel of a brilliant palace.

Three central and permanent galleries are adorned with captivating sculptures and archaeological discoveries, although they’re presented in quite a formal way.

If you can, I would suggest visiting on a Wednesday or Thursday when there are English-speaking tours of the museum.

Jim Thompson House

Bangkok and silk go hand in hand. Much of that has to do with the work of American Jim Thompson, who moved to the city after World War II and revitalised the silk trade. His rise to becoming the “Thai Silk King” is immortalised at his Bangkok home.

The Jim Thompson House tells the story of his time as an OSS officer, and his transformation into a fashion heavyweight. But what will perhaps capture your attention are the stories of the Gatsby-esque parties that he held with the city’s high society.

The house is made from six traditional teak buildings and they hold a fascinating collection of antiques and artworks. There are also now some modern buildings on the site with dining, shopping, and exhibition space.

Although everyone gets a guided tour of the house, if you are interesting in learning more, there’s this interesting tour that includes a traditional silk village.

Art galleries

Bangkok’s burgeoning counterculture art scene has made waves over the last decade. Combined with the city’s established art galleries, there is no shortage of brilliant galleries to discover.

I think one of the best places to head is the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, the centrepiece of the city’s art scene. Over several levels of the large circular building there are all sorts of interesting exhibitions of local artists and international works.

Back near the Jim Thompson House, there’s a four-level modern building called the JTAC, which has regular shows of contemporary Thai artists like Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Dusafee Huntrakul.

Lastly, the SAC Gallery works with young Thai and Southeast Asian artists and features a renowned residency program, so it would be worth seeing what is on when you’re visiting

Other museums

And I just wanted to also mention a couple of other museums in Bangkok that may be of interest if you’re looking for something specialised.

• Royal Barge Museum: Featuring a collection of historic, ornamented vessels, the Royal Barge Museum is a glimpse into the Ayutthaya era. These barges remain in use by the royals to this day.
• Prasart Museum: This private museum boasts an immense collection of artefacts dating as far back at the Pre-historic age. The museum is a great look into the various eras of Thai life.

Tours

With so many layers and so much to explore, you’ll really only ever scratch the surface of Bangkok if you’re doing it by yourself.

One of the best reasons to do a tour in Bangkok is to be immersed in the local experiences – tasting the best food, discovering new neighbourhoods, going off the beaten path.

But even if you just want to focus on the main sights, having a guide can be really comforting in a city that’s quite chaotic, with tuk-tuk scammers and crazy traffic all about!

General city tour

Whether it’s to get your bearings or to pack a lot of sights into a short amount of time, a general city tour of Bangkok is a fantastic way to get an overview of the city. Leave the stress in your hotel room, throw away the guide book, and let a local expert take the reins.

If you want to do it as a private tour, then this excellent walking tour will take you to many of the top landmarks and highlights of Bangkok, including the Grand Palace, Chinatown, and Wat Arun.

Or there are a few other great options here to consider:

A tour that offers hotel pick-up and drop-off will make it even easier. And also remember that spending a few hours with a local guide is a great way to pick their brains about what else to do in Bangkok.

Hidden gems

Many of the main Bangkok attractions are pretty easy to visit by yourself. Hidden gems are less so.

That’s why a tour focusing specifically on some of Bangkok’s unheralded or, frankly, unknown sights, will provide you with a unique, rewarding experience. It’s the perfect way to get to know the real city!

For example, there is this fascinating hidden gems tour that takes you through the backstreets on a bicycle as you explore the Thonburi district. Along the way, you’ll cross over canals, discover some quieter temples, and peek into hidden courtyards.

Some other really interesting local tours that I would recommend are:

These are not places you would probably find on your own, so there’s definitely a good reason to go along with a guide.

River cruise

With glistening skyscrapers reflecting on the river, illuminated temples, and the head-turning presence of the Grand Palace, the Chao Phraya River is the place to be.

There are many ways to get up and down the river, with boats running like trains to temples and markets. But a river cruise pulls it all together.

Although it’s quite touristy, a river cruise in the evening is a wonderful way to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. I would recommend one of these trips, which all offer similar things:

With live music and dinner, it’s quite magical to see the majestic attractions stand like stars along the riverbank

Night tour

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. Whether it’s the red light districts, the markets, the street food, or the clubs, Bangkok is full of rhythm at all hours.

So, why not make the most of this and join a night tour? Better yet, do it on the back of a classic tuk-tuk?

You can discover the beauty of Bangkok after dark on this excellent tuk tuk tour. As you whizz around on three wheels, you’ll see temples more illuminated and quieter than during the day.

Somer other fun night tours to consider are these ones:

This is definitely one of the things to do in Bangkok that I would really recommend, with visits the bustling night markets for some culinary delights or the busy and colourful flower markets.

Muay Thai

Beyond the flowers, food, and go-go bars, there is another cultural phenomenon that has developed worldwide renown. That is Muay Thai.

Bangkok is the mecca of Thai boxing and the best place to see the combat action live. I recommend grabbing tickets for events at Rajadamnern Stadium or Lumpinee Stadium. The former is more accessible, but if you can handle the traffic, Lumpinee is legendary in the Muay Thai world.

You might also want to spend some time learning how to do Muay Thai yourself! There are these good classes for beginners or you may prefer these private lessons.

Day trips

Although there are easily enough things to do in Bangkok to fill your time, there are also some other really interesting Thai regions that you can explore from here.

Although some of these suggestions would work as overnight stays, they are also great day trips from Bangkok if you’re short of time.

Maeklong Railway Market

Around 90 minutes southwest of Bangkok, the Maeklong Railway Market is a unique shopping experience.

The market has been around for over 100 years and is set along the railway tracks. Similar situations have made way for Bangkok’s expanding railway network. But these days when the train’s approach, vendors pack up their goods and wait for it to pass.

As they do so, you’ll wait on the track’s edge and watch the dance ensue before continuing to shop.

The easiest way to get to the market (and make sure you don’t miss the train) is with this great guided tour that also includes the Damnoen Saduak floating market.

Or there are other options here that combine different sights, to make it a worthwhile day trip:

As well as the novelty of the train, don’t forget to do a bit of shopping. You’ll find Thai sweets, traditional clothing, and ample food options.

Ayutthaya

Once the capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya is an intriguing historic city that dates back to the 1300s. A World Heritage Site, the city is a living reminder of a bygone era.

Ayutthaya thrived for centuries before being destroyed in a Burmese invasion. Today, the site showcases ancient temples, such as Wat Mahathat with a Buddha’s head surrounded by roots, and the impressive prang of Wat Ratchaburana.

There are lots of things to do in Ayutthaya and a good way to see them is to rent a bike and ride to most of the sights on your own. Or, if you would like to have everything arranged (including transport from Bangkok), I would recommend this excellent guided day trip.

There are some other good tour options here from Bangkok to Ayutthaya:

Ayutthaya is an ode to a rich culture and a stunning island location with gorgeous views. Add in some delicious street food, and this city becomes the perfect addition to your Bangkok experience.

Kanchanaburi

If you want a taste of nature, then trade Bangkok’s bustling downtown with Kanchanaburi.

Two hours from Bangkok, this destination can be reached by car or train. As you gain elevation, you’ll find cooler temperatures aided by the dense forests and thriving rivers.

Take a wander through Kanchanaburi City before heading into the countryside. Here you’ll discover wonders like Erawan Falls piercing through the lush landscapes before forming rivers perfect for whitewater rafting.

From Kanchanaburi, you can also see a sad part of the country’s World War II history at the Hellfire Pass Museum, or on a trip on the so-called Death Railway.

If the history is your focus, I would recommend this excellent tour of the sights. Otherwise there are some other good trips to Kanchanaburi here:

Or, if you prefer just to relax, explore the town’s cafes or rest by the river to take in the scenery.