Bangkok, Thailand: 18 Best Things to Do and See

In this guide I will share with you Bangkok, Thailand: 18 Best Things to Do and See. If you’re thinking about a holiday in Bangkok or just a short stopover on your way to a Thai island, we have to warn you: it’s a place that will literally engulf you with its energy, and you’ll want to stay longer. ☺️

We didn’t expect anything from Bangkok; on the contrary, we thought we’d be happy to escape, but in the end, we absolutely fell in love with it, and we don’t even like big cities!

In our article, you’ll find tips on the best sights, what to see in Bangkok, where to eat, where to shop, and what else to do here.

Where to Stay in Bangkok + Hotel Tips

If you like a more modern environment, you’ll like the Sukhumvit district with many luxurious restaurants and bars.

Do you want peace and a river view? Then you should probably choose Riverside, from where you’re also close to the sights. Backpackers love Khao San Road, it’s cheap, with lots of foreigners and bars.

Other popular districts include Silom, a financial center with luxurious restaurants and parks, which comes alive at night with clubs and bars.

Do you mainly want to shop here? Then you might want to stay in the Siam area, where you’ll find a large number of shopping centers.

Our Hotel Tips in Bangkok

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, check out Ascott Embassy Sathorn Bangkok; if you want a very cheap but great hostel, there’s Khao San Social Capsule. And the golden mean? Probably Naga Residence.

Weather in Bangkok: when to Go

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, the ideal time to go is between November and March. During this time, Bangkok experiences its dry season, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, and it rarely rains.

Conversely, from April to October is the rainy season, and temperatures can reach up to 36°C, with high and quite unpleasant humidity. Everything sticks to you, and it’s hard to go outside.

If even this doesn’t deter you, be prepared that during this time there are also frequent afternoon showers that can also bring floods, especially between May and October.

Bangkok, Thailand: 18 Best Things to Do and See

Now you know where to stay, and now let’s look at everything you can see here, so you can decide how long to go to Bangkok for; I personally recommend 3-4 days.

Grand Palace and Wat Pho

The Grand Palace is one of the most significant places to see in Bangkok. This stunning complex, originally built in 1782, served as the residence of Thai kings and is now an important historical and cultural monument.

Within the complex, you’ll find several important buildings, such as Dusit Maha Prasat Hall, where official royal ceremonies are held, and Chakri Maha Prasat, which combines Thai and neoclassical styles.

Admission costs 500 THB, and it’s ideal to go right at opening time because it gets incredibly crowded. The palace is open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and a strict dress code must be observed – long trousers for men and covered shoulders and knees for women. If you don’t have suitable clothing, you can rent it at the entrance for a fee.

Wat Pho, located right next to the Grand Palace, is home to the famous Reclining Buddha, which is 46 meters long and covered in gold.

Admission to Wat Pho is 100 THB, and opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the most sacred religious site in Thailand. You’ll find the temple within the Grand Palace complex in the historic Phra Nakhon district.

The Emerald Buddha, the main attraction of this temple, is actually carved from a single piece of green jade and measures 66 cm in height.

The statue is considered a symbol of protection for the Thai nation, and only the Thai king is permitted to touch it. Three times a year, during a ceremony, the king changes the statue’s robes to mark the arrival of a new season – hot, cool, and rainy.

In addition to the Emerald Buddha, other interesting features of the temple are worth mentioning. Within the temple complex, there is a detailed model of Angkor Wat, which was created at the command of King Rama IV, to commemorate centuries-old cultural and historical ties with Cambodia. Another attraction is the 178 murals depicting the story of Ramakian, the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana, which you’ll find along the temple walls.

The temple is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and admission is 500 THB, which also includes access to other attractions within the Grand Palace complex, such as the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.

I recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy it more. When visiting Wat Phra Kaew, a strict dress code must again be observed – covered shoulders and knees; tight and transparent clothing is not permitted. If you don’t have suitable clothing, you can rent it at the entrance for a fee.

Wat Phra Kaew is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. You can use a taxi, tuk-tuk, or public transport such as the BTS SkyTrain or a boat taxi, which will take you to Tha Chang pier, from where it’s just a short walk to the main entrance of the Grand Palace. I recommend using a river taxi, which will offer beautiful city views and help you avoid traffic jams.

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s icons. This temple, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, has a rich history dating back to the Ayutthaya period, when it was originally known as “Wat Makok”.

In 1767, King Taksin renamed it “Wat Chaeng” (Temple of Dawn) to commemorate his arrival at this spot at dawn after the fall of Ayutthaya.

Later, during the reign of King Rama II, the temple was renovated and named “Wat Arun”.

The temple is unique for its combination of Khmer and Thai architectural styles. The main prang, over 80 meters high, is covered with colorful pieces of Chinese porcelain and seashells, giving it a distinctive sheen. This main prang symbolizes Mount Meru, which, according to Buddhist cosmology, forms the center of the universe.

Steep stairs lead to the top of the main spire, which are challenging, but the view is worth it – you’ll see not only the Chao Phraya River but also parts of the Grand Palace and Wat Pho on the opposite bank.

Wat Arun is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last tickets sold around 5:30 PM. Admission is 100 THB for tourists, while Thais have free entry. I recommend arriving early in the morning when there are fewer tourists and temperatures are more pleasant, or conversely, late in the afternoon when you can see the temple illuminated by golden lights at sunset.

For visiting the temple, a strict dress code must again be observed – shoulders and knees must be covered, otherwise, you’ll have to rent a sarong for 20 THB, for which a refundable deposit of 100 THB is required.

The best way to get to Wat Arun is by boat across the river. You can take the Chao Phraya River Ferry, which will take you to Tha Tien pier, from where you can get directly to the temple. Alternatively, you can use the metro (MRT) to Itsaraphap station, from where it’s about a 15-minute walk, or use a mototaxi.

Wat Arun is located near other significant landmarks, such as Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, making it easy to visit these places in one day.

Wat Saket (Golden Mount)

Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong), is one of Bangkok’s most famous temples, offering an amazing 360-degree view of the city.

The temple was originally built during the Ayutthaya period, but its current form dates back to the reign of King Rama III, when a large golden stupa was built on an artificial hill. This stupa is a symbol of Buddhist values and reflects the spiritual significance of the place.

The path to the top of the Golden Mount involves climbing 318 steps, which are surrounded by lush greenery, exotic trees, and statues.

Along the way, you’ll encounter bells that you can ring for good luck! At the summit, you’ll find a large golden stupa containing relics of the Buddha brought from India, making Wat Saket an important pilgrimage site for local devotees.

Wat Saket is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the best time to visit being early morning or late afternoon, when there are fewer tourists and, more importantly, it’s not too hot. Admission is 100 THB.

I recommend arriving just before sunset, when the city view is most beautiful, and the colors of the sunset add a magical atmosphere to the entire place.

You can get to Wat Saket either by MRT (Sam Yot station), from where it’s about a 15-minute walk, or by boat bus along the Khlong Saen Saeb canal, which will take you to Phan Fha Leelard pier, near the Golden Mount. Alternatively, you can use a taxi or tuk-tuk, but you need to agree on the price beforehand.

Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)

Chinatown is one of the most vibrant places to see in Bangkok. Yaowarat Road, known as the main artery of Chinatown, is full of street food stalls, gold shops, herbal medicine stores, and shops offering various items – from traditional medicines to souvenirs.

If you love street food, I recommend browsing GetYourGuide and trying to find a food tour to have someone guide you.

Try famous Chinese noodles, roasted chestnuts, crispy duck if you eat meat (Lukáš was still eating it at the time), or exotic sweets like mango sticky rice.

An evening visit to Chinatown is the best choice, as the streets fill with hundreds of stalls and neon lights create an incredible atmosphere. Local restaurants, such as TK Seafood and Lek Rut Seafood, are very popular and worth trying.

For those who want to experience more of Chinese culture, I recommend visiting Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, the largest Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok, located in the heart of Chinatown. The temple is often a venue for traditional celebrations, such as Chinese New Year or the Vegetarian Festival.

The best way to get to Chinatown is by metro (MRT) to Wat Mangkon station, from where it’s just a short walk. Alternatively, you can use a tuk-tuk or a boat along the Chao Phraya River and disembark at Ratchawong pier, from where Chinatown is easily accessible on foot.

Make sure to bring cash, as many stalls do not accept card payments, and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking among the stalls and restaurants.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a paradise if you want to buy something. This market, held every weekend, is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, with over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres.

Here you’ll find everything from clothing, souvenirs, exotic plants, to antiques and even pets.

The market is divided into different sections, each with its own focus – for example, Section 1 is dedicated to antiques and handicrafts, while Section 7 is an open gallery of contemporary art, where you’ll find works by Thai and other Asian artists.

You’ll also find popular street food here, including coconut ice cream, grilled prawns, chicken skewers, and the famous mango sticky rice. Plus, at a great price – most Thai dishes cost between 60 and 100 THB. Massages are also available, for example, a 30-minute foot massage for 150 THB or a 60-minute massage for 250 THB.

The best time to visit the market is in the morning around 9:00 AM, when there are fewer people and it’s less hot. Generally, at noon in Thailand, it’s best to hide in a shopping mall 😁. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and carrying a bottle of water.

The market is easily accessible by BTS Skytrain (Mo Chit station) or MRT (Chatuchak Park or Kamphaeng Phet station).

Khao San Road

Khao San Road is one of the most famous places in Bangkok and is rightly nicknamed the “backpackers’ Mecca”. This street never sleeps and offers a mix of everything you could wish for – from street food and cheap accommodation to clubs, bars, and souvenir markets.

The street is full of travelers from all over the world who come here not only for affordable accommodation but also for the vibrant nightlife.

Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit is the opposite of Khao San Road; it’s a modern district full of luxury hotels, shops, bars, and nightclubs.

I recommend visiting one of the rooftop bars, such as Octave Rooftop Lounge Bar at the Marriott Hotel, where you can enjoy a drink with an amazing panoramic city view.

If you want to go shopping, head to Terminal 21, which offers a unique concept where each floor represents a different global destination, from London to Tokyo.

Among the popular bars in this district are Levels Club Lounge, Soi 11, or Soi Cowboy.

Silom

Silom is a district that offers something for everyone – from peaceful parks to vibrant nightlife venues. During the day, Silom is a center for financial institutions and business activities, but at night it transforms into a lively hub of nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Patpong Night Market is one of the most famous markets in this area, known for its souvenir and clothing stalls, as well as nightlife venues in the adjacent streets. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, I recommend visiting Lumphini Park, which is located nearby and is an ideal place for relaxation.

The nearest metro stations are Sala Daeng (BTS) or Silom (MRT), from where you can easily reach the main attractions in Silom. If you like street food, try local dishes on Soi Convent or Soi 20, where various Thai specialties are served.

Lumphini Park

Even in Bangkok, you’ll find beautiful greenery. This expansive park spans over 142 acres, and if you don’t just want to walk around, you can rent a boat on the pond here.

For us Europeans, perhaps the greatest spectacle is in the morning, when the park is full of locals practicing tai chi.

Entry to the park is free, and it’s open daily from 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The best way to get here is by BTS Skytrain, Sala Daeng station, or MRT metro, Lumphini station, which will take you directly to the park.

Bang Krachao

Bang Krachao, is a green island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River, known as the “green lung of Bangkok”. We recommend booking a bike tour through GetYourGuide.

Mahanakhon Skyscraper

The Mahanakhon Skyscraper is one of the tallest buildings in Thailand and offers breathtaking city views. The SkyWalk on the 78th floor with its glass floor is simply unmissable in Bangkok.

Besides the SkyWalk, you can also visit the Rooftop Bar on the top floor, where you can enjoy a cocktail with panoramic views of Bangkok. Mahanakhon is open daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight), with the last entry permitted at 11:00 PM.

Admission to the SkyWalk is 880 THB for adults and 250 THB for children aged 3-12. The best way to get here is by BTS Skytrain; alight at Chong Nonsi station, from where it’s just a few minutes’ walk.

13. Wat Paknam

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, also known as “Wat Paknam”, is located on the western outskirts of Bangkok and is known for its enormous Buddha statue, which, at 69 meters, is the tallest in Bangkok.

The temple was built in 1610 during the Ayutthaya period, and its restoration and expansion have attracted more tourists in recent years. The main attraction of the temple is not only the Buddha statue but also the five-story Maharatchamongkhon stupa, which was completed in 2012. Inside the stupa, you will find a museum dedicated to various forms of Buddha and meditation.

On the top floor, there is a magnificent ceiling painting depicting Buddhist cosmology.

Visiting the temple is free, and it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Remember that you must have your shoulders and knees covered in temples.

14. Marble Temple (Wat Benchamabophit)

Wat Benchamabophit is one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok and is known for its unique combination of Thai and European architecture. The temple was built in 1899 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and was designed by Prince Naris, who incorporated Italian Carrara marble into the design, giving the temple its name “Marble Temple”.

The temple’s main building, called the Ubosot, is adorned with magnificent marble carvings, and its interior houses a gilded statue of Phra Buddha Chinnarat, which is among the most sacred in Thailand.

Besides the magnificent architecture, there is also a tranquil courtyard with bronze Buddha statues and beautifully landscaped gardens. You will find Victorian stained-glass windows depicting scenes from Thai mythology here.

Wat Benchamabophit is located in the royal Dusit district, near Chitralada Palace and the Royal Plaza.

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission costs 50 THB. Again, it is necessary to have your knees and shoulders covered when visiting.

Temple of the Golden Buddha – Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit Temple, known for its enormous golden statue of a seated Buddha, is one of the most significant places to see in Bangkok. The golden Buddha statue is made of solid gold, weighs 5.5 tons and is considered the largest golden statue in the world.

The statue dates back to the 13th or 14th century and was originally covered with a layer of plaster to protect it from invasions. In 1955, its true form was accidentally discovered during its relocation to the temple when the plaster cracked, revealing the golden statue.

The temple is located at 661 Charoen Krung Road, near Chinatown. Wat Traimit is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission is 40 THB.

Dusit Palace

Dusit Palace is an extensive complex of royal and government buildings, built at the turn of the 19. 19th and 20th centuries by King Rama V, and is known for its combination of Thai and European architecture.

One of the main attractions is Vimanmek Mansion, the world’s largest golden teak palace, which now serves as a museum showcasing the life of the Thai royal family.

Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is a magnificent building constructed in European neoclassical style, which served as the seat of the Thai Parliament and now functions as a museum showcasing Thai art and crafts.

Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall was originally built for royal audiences and later served as a space for presenting Thai handicrafts.

Don’t forget to visit the Royal Elephant Museum during your visit, where you can learn more about the significance of elephants in Thai culture.

Dusit Palace is open from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last tour of Vimanmek Mansion starting at 3:00 PM. The best way to get here is by metro (SkyTrain) to Phaya Thai station, from where it’s about 2.5 km, or by taxi or boat along the Chao Phraya River to Thewet Pier and then walk.

Floating Market – Taling Chan

Taling Chan is one of the few floating markets in Bangkok, where you can taste fresh seafood and other Thai specialties directly from a boat. If you want to go, you can book a trip through GetYourGuide.

The market is smaller and more authentic than the touristy floating markets outside Bangkok, so we highly recommend it.

The best way to get to the market is by taxi, or by BTS to Wongwian Yai station and then other transport. Don’t forget to bring cash, as card payments are not accepted.

Authentic Thai Massages (Tips on where to get a Massage)

If you’re wondering where to get a massage in Bangkok, there are plenty of options. Among the most popular is Yunomori Onsen Spa, which combines traditional Japanese onsen culture with Thai massages. This luxurious spa complex offers various mineral baths that help relax muscles and relieve stress.

Another renowned place is The Oriental Spa at the Mandarin Oriental hotel. This five-star spa offers over 40 types of treatments that combine traditional and modern techniques.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, try Let’s Relax Onsen Spa Thonglor, which is popular among both locals and tourists. It offers a wide range of massages, including traditional Thai massages, aromatherapy oil massages, and hot stone massages. Onsen packages include access to various mineral baths and other treatments.

Another affordable option is Health Land. This chain of wellness centers has several branches throughout Bangkok and offers various types of massages, including Ayurvedic, which uses essential oils to relax the body and mind.

For lovers of luxurious natural cosmetics, there’s Panpuri Wellness Organic Spa.

Where to Eat in Bangkok – Tips for the Best Restaurants

Alright, the best thing about Bangkok is definitely the food. At least for us lovers of Thai cuisine! If you’re looking for great restaurants, I recommend starting at Issaya Siamese Club, where modern Thai cuisine is served in a beautiful colonial villa with a charming garden.

Another great tip for an excellent Thai restaurant is Le Du in Silom.

Want excellent street food and love fish? Head to Ngow Fishball Noodle in Chinatown.

Spicy food lovers shouldn’t miss Khua Kling Pak Sod, where you can taste typical dishes from Southern Thailand, such as the spicy Khua Kling curry.

And if you’re looking for a great place for roasted duck, be sure to visit Prachak Pet Yang, a traditional Cantonese restaurant that has been operating in Bangkok for over 100 years.

Michelin Restaurants in Bangkok

Looking for Michelin-starred restaurants? In Bangkok, you’ll find Gaggan Anand, which offers a creative and innovative fusion menu, or Sorn, which focuses on authentic Southern Thai cuisine.

Vegan Restaurants in Bangkok

When we were in Bangkok, I ate vegetarian and vegan (Luky still ate meat), and I definitely had no problem.

Bangkok also has a great vegan scene. I recommend visiting Veganerie Concept, a popular vegan cafe and restaurant located in the Sukhumvit area, offering a wide selection of dishes including waffles and smoothie bowls.

Another great choice is Broccoli Revolution, where you’ll find Thai classics like laab and spicy curries, as well as international dishes, including burgers and quesadillas.

Personally, I love Thai food, but if you want a break from it, try Italian cuisine at Govinda Vegan Restaurant, which offers vegan versions of pasta and pizza.

If you’re craving Thai food in a pleasant atmosphere, visit Mango Vegetarian Vegan Restaurant and Arts Gallery in the Old Bangkok area, where they also had a great selection of fresh juices and kombucha.

Another great option is The Vegan Table, which offers both Thai and Western dishes and great cocktails during happy hour. For a more affordable option, try So Vegan or the food stalls in shopping malls like Terminal 21 or Siam Paragon, where you can get a vegan lunch for a few bucks.

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