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Alex Martin 29 Best Things to Do in Bangkok You Need To Know
Bangkok is a city of contrasts: ancient temples sit beside glittering malls, street food stalls line up next to rooftop bars, and busy express boats glide past quiet parks.
If you’re planning your first trip or your next one, this list of the best things to do in Bangkok will help you see the city’s highlights without missing its hidden gems.
- Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha)
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
- Wat Traimit (Golden Buddha)
- Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen
- Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
- Jim Thompson House Museum
- Bangkok National Museum
- Museum Siam or Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
- Chinatown (Yaowarat)
- Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Jodd Fairs Night Market
- Train Night Market Srinagarindra (Talad Rot Fai Srinagarindra)
- Asiatique The Riverfront
- Chao Phraya River Cruise
- Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya
- Floating Market Day Trip (Khlong Lat Mayom, Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa)
- Lumpini Park
- Bang Kachao (“Green Lung”)
- Talat Noi & Song Wat Road
- Erawan Shrine
- Mahanakhon Skywalk
- OneSiam Skywalk
- Rooftop Bar Experience (Silom, Sathorn, Sukhumvit)
- Khao San Road
- Banthat Thong Road
- Soi Cowboy
- SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
1. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha)
Start your Bangkok journey at the city’s most iconic landmark. The Grand Palace complex is a dazzling collection of golden spires, glittering mosaics, and ornate halls that once housed the Thai royal family. Inside the complex, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) shelters Thailand’s most sacred Buddha image.
Tip: Dress modestly, shoulders and knees must be covered or you won’t be allowed in. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat.
2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Just across the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun rises like a fairytale tower, its central prang decorated with colourful porcelain and seashells. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset, when the light makes the temple glow against the river.
Climb the steep steps for close‑up views of the intricate details and a nice perspective over the water.
3. Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple complexes. Its main attraction is the enormous 46‑metre Reclining Buddha, covered in gold leaf and resting serenely in a long, dimly lit hall.
This temple is also considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. After exploring, treat yourself to an authentic massage at the school on site.
4. Wat Traimit (Golden Buddha)
In the heart of Chinatown, Wat Traimit is home to a solid gold Buddha statue that was once hidden under layers of plaster to protect it from invaders. When the statue was accidentally damaged, the gold beneath was revealed.
It’s smaller than the Reclining Buddha, but the story and the sheer value of the statue make it unforgettable.
5. Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen
For a more local, less touristy temple experience, head to Wat Paknam. This large, active temple complex is known for its modern glass‑clad chedi and impressive meditation hall.
It’s a great place to observe daily religious life and, if you’re interested, join a meditation session.
6. Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Climb the shaded steps of Wat Saket to reach the Golden Mount, a hilltop temple offering one of the best panoramic views over Bangkok’s Old City. The path feels more like a forest walk than a city climb, with bells, shrines, and quiet corners along the way.
Sunset is the ideal time to visit for golden light and cooler temperatures.
7. Jim Thompson House Museum
Step away from the temples and into the world of Thai silk at the Jim Thompson House. This museum is a collection of traditional Thai teak houses set in lush tropical gardens, once the home of the American entrepreneur who revived the Thai silk industry.
Guided tours take you through beautifully preserved rooms filled with Thai art, antiques, and textiles.
8. Bangkok National Museum
For history lovers, the Bangkok National Museum is a must. Located near the Grand Palace, it houses extensive collections of Thai art, archaeology, royal artefacts, and Buddhist sculptures.
Plan at least two hours if you want to appreciate the depth of the exhibits.
9. Museum Siam or Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
When you need a break from the heat, head to one of Bangkok’s excellent indoor cultural spaces.
- Museum Siam (Bang Rak) is an interactive, modern museum exploring Thai identity, culture, and history in a fun, engaging way.
- BACC (near Siam) showcases contemporary art through rotating exhibitions by Thai and international artists.
Both are great for a relaxed, educational afternoon.
10. Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a sensory explosion of street food, gold shops, old shophouses, and bustling markets. By day, explore narrow alleys and Chinese temples; by night, Yaowarat Road transforms into one of the world’s best street food destinations.
Try seafood, grilled skewers, noodle soups, and traditional desserts like mango sticky rice or coconut ice cream in a coconut shell.
11. Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market
For a different kind of colour, visit Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s largest wholesale flower market. It operates 24 hours but is most lively late at night and in the early morning, when trucks unload mountainous piles of jasmine garlands, marigolds, roses, and orchids.
It’s a photographer’s dream and a great place to see how flowers are used in temples, ceremonies, and daily life.
12. Chatuchak Weekend Market
No Bangkok trip is complete without a visit to Chatuchak, one of the world’s biggest weekend markets. Spread over 27 acres, it has thousands of stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to antiques, plants, art, and street food.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring cash, and allow at least half a day to explore properly.
13. Jodd Fairs Night Market
Jodd Fairs is a trendy, Instagram‑friendly night market with a youthful vibe. You’ll find vintage clothing, quirky fashion, creative street food, and live music in a clean, well‑organised setting.
It’s perfect for an evening stroll, some shopping, and a tasty, budget‑friendly dinner.
14. Train Night Market Srinagarindra (Talad Rot Fai Srinagarindra)
This large weekend night market is known for vintage goods, collectibles, second‑hand items, and an enormous variety of affordable food and drinks. It feels more local and less touristy than some of the central markets.
Come hungry and with time to browse, there’s a lot to discover.
15. Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique is a riverside mall and entertainment complex built in old warehouses, combining shopping, dining, and nightlife with a pleasant waterfront setting. There’s a Ferris wheel, boutique shops, restaurants, and nightly shows ranging from cabaret to Muay Thai.
It’s a relaxed option for an evening by the river.
16. Chao Phraya River Cruise
Seeing Bangkok from the water gives you a completely different perspective. The Chao Phraya River is lined with major temples, historic sites, and modern skyscrapers. You can choose between cheap local express boats, hop‑on/hop‑off tourist ferries, or guided cruises.
It’s also a practical way to move between key sights like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Asiatique.
17. Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya
For a slower, more romantic evening, a dinner cruise lets you enjoy a buffet or à la carte meal while gliding past illuminated temples, bridges, and riverside hotels. It’s a great way to see the city lights without the noise and traffic.
Sunset departures offer the best views as the sky changes colour over the river.
18. Floating Market Day Trip (Khlong Lat Mayom, Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa)
Floating markets are a classic Thai experience. Vendors sell fruit, snacks, and souvenirs directly from small boats along narrow canals.
- Khlong Lat Mayom is relatively close to Bangkok and feels authentic.
- Damnoen Saduak is the most famous (and busiest) tourist version.
- Amphawa is more local and especially lively on weekends.
Most tours include hotel pickup and combine the market with other nearby sights.
19. Lumpini Park
In the middle of the concrete jungle, Lumpini Park is a welcome green escape. With walking and jogging paths, a lake with paddle boats, and frequent sightings of large monitor lizards, it’s perfect for a relaxed morning or late afternoon stroll.
You’ll often see locals exercising, practising tai chi, or picnicking on the grass.
20. Bang Kachao (“Green Lung”)
Bang Kachao is a large, mostly car‑free island in the Chao Phraya River known as Bangkok’s “Green Lung.” It’s filled with parks, cycling paths, small cafés, and a surprisingly rural atmosphere.
Rent a bike and explore quiet lanes, visit a small market, or take a kayak trip through the canals for a nature‑focused half‑day trip.
21. Talat Noi & Song Wat Road
These historic neighbourhoods along the river are now hubs for street art, indie cafés, and creative spaces. Narrow alleys are lined with old shophouses, murals, and small galleries.
It’s an excellent area for photography, café hopping, and seeing a more bohemian side of Bangkok.
22. Erawan Shrine
Tucked between busy roads and shopping malls, the Erawan Shrine is a famous Hindu shrine known for its golden Buddha image and traditional Thai dance performances. Locals and visitors come to make offerings and watch the dancers, who perform as thanks for answered prayers.
It’s a quick but memorable cultural stop in the middle of the city.
23. Mahanakhon Skywalk
For sweeping 360° views of Bangkok, head to the King Power Mahanakhon skyscraper. The Mahanakhon Skywalk includes an observation deck and a glass‑floor section where you can look straight down at the city below.
Visit at sunset to see the city transition from day to night, all lit up beneath you.
24. OneSiam Skywalk
Around the Siam shopping district, the OneSiam Skywalk is a network of elevated, covered walkways decorated with colourful lights and art installations. It’s functional—air‑conditioned and easy to navigate—but also visually striking, especially after dark.
It’s a great way to move between malls while enjoying a futuristic urban vibe.
25. Rooftop Bar Experience (Silom, Sathorn, Sukhumvit)
Bangkok is famous for its rooftop bars, where cocktails come with panoramic skyline views. Areas like Silom, Sathorn, and Sukhumvit are packed with options, from upscale lounges to more casual terraces.
Reserve a table around sunset for the best combination of light, views, and atmosphere.
26. Khao San Road
Khao San Road is the legendary backpacker street, known for budget hostels, travel agencies, street food, bars, and a very lively night scene. It’s touristy, but still worth experiencing once for its energy and history as a hub for independent travellers.
Go in the evening to see it at its most vibrant.
27. Banthat Thong Road
For a more relaxed, daytime vibe, explore Banthat Thong Road. This trendy street is lined with independent cafés, co‑working spaces, and colourful street art, popular with students, creatives, and remote workers.
It’s a great spot for coffee, work, and a slower pace between sightseeing.
28. Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy is a short, neon‑lit street in Sukhumvit known for its nightlife, bars, and clubs. It’s part of Bangkok’s red‑light district and is clearly adult‑oriented.
It’s interesting to see for its notoriety and neon glow, but keep in mind the nature of the area.
29. SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
Located in the Siam Paragon mall, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is a large aquarium with underwater tunnels, shark and ray tanks, and touch pools. It’s a good option for families or as a cool indoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
Combine it with shopping and lunch in the Siam area for an easy half‑day plan.
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