The capital city of Thailand is among the world's major tourist attractions. As the international gate of Thailand, millions of international visitors flock to Bangkok (locally named Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, or simply Krung Thep) before departing to other parts of the country located in the heart of Southeast Asia.
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Bangkok is mostly known for its street markets and standing wats (Buddhist temples). If you plan to visit the city in the near future, you better read the list below for the most interesting places to go and things to do in Bangkok.
1. The Royal Grand Palace
Marvel at the classical Thai architecture as you walk among the traditional buildings with golden ornaments. Located in the center of Bangkok, Grand Palace has been functioned as the official residence of King of Thailand since 18th century. Please wear modest clothing when coming here.
2. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha)
Within the walls of Grand Palace lies a royal wat often dubbed as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. As the name suggests, the temple is home to the statue of Emerald Buddha. Everywhere you see, the temple is covered in meticulous ornaments and decoration.
3. Khaosan Road
With lots of budget hotels, massage parlors, and cheap street food, Khaosan Road is one of the best tourist traps of Bangkok. After the dark, the road offers lively atmosphere of nightlife with amusing bars and parties. The famed Songkran festival is also celebrated every year in Khaosan Road.
4. Chatuchak Market
With more than 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest market in Thailand. Get ready to shop till drop, since the market offers a wide range of goods, from food, clothing, and accessories, to electronics, plants, and antiques. All at very cheap prices!
5. National Museum Bangkok
Discover centuries of history and art in Thailand, South East Asia, and beyond at this museum. Situated inside a former palace, National Museum Bangkok is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and artworks from prehistoric times all the way to Bangkok period.
6. Wat Pho
Meet the giant reclining Buddha from 19th century in this royal temple located in Phra Nakhon District, not far from Wat Phra Kaew. Wat Pho houses a vast collection of Buddha images as well as towering chedis or Buddhist stupas with pointy crowns.
7. Wat Arun
Located on the bank of Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of the most recognized landmarks of Thailand. The main prang (spire-like structure) is covered in porcelain of many colors, and the main entrance of the hall is flanked by two iconic statues of yaksha (guardian deities).
8. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
Meet Bangkok's latest landscape of contemporary art in this art center located in Pathum Wan District. Saunter through the main gallery filled with modern artworks and sip a cup of coffee at their café. BACC also hold temporary exhibitions regularly for different types of art, including music and poetry.
9. Wat Suthat
The royal temple is known for its iconic landmark called Giant Swing. Constructed in 19th century, the main hall of Wat Suthat is adorned with 28 Chinese style pagoda, symbolizing 28 Buddhas. There is also an urban legend about the appearance of preta (hungry ghost) in front of the temple.
9. Mahanakhon SkyWalk
Enjoy the 360 degree scenery of Bangkok from the tallest observation deck in Thailand. Mahanakhon SkyWalk sits on top of King Power Mahanakhon, a futuristic skyscraper in Bang Rak District. The open-air deck is equipped with glass fence and glass floor for a more fantastic panorama.
10. Siam Paragon
One of the largest malls in Thailand, Siam Paragon spans 8.3 hectares (21 acres) with 10 floors and huge options of entertainment. The mall is extremely popular among tourists, with a range of stores and restaurants, cinema, Thai corner, an even an amazing aquarium: the SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World.
11. Chang Chui Plane Market
Get artsy at the creative park located in Bang Phlat District. Chang Chui Plane Market combines shopping and dining experience with contemporary art installations and creative structures. The main point of interest is obviously a retired airplane turned into a restaurant with slide.
12. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Stop and stare at the giant Buddha statue at this large temple complex. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen the birthplace of Dhammakaya tradition in early 20th century, and quite popular among mae chi (a type of Buddhist nun). The temple is also fitted with a grand stupa called Maharatchamongkhon.
13. Asiatique The Riverfront
Feel the breeze next to the river as you finish your plate of delicious seafood. Asiatique The Riverfront is an open-air mall located in a former dock facing Chao Phraya River, equipped with attractions such as Ferris wheel, carousel, and Mystery Mansion.
14. Erawan Shrine
Pray respect at the four-faced Brahma (Phra Phrom) statue in this popular shrine. Erawan shrine is located in Ratchaprasong, a bustling shopping district with many malls and shops. Thai dance troupes hired by the worshippers are often seen in the shrine area.
15. Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium
If you love muay Thai fights, then this place is for you! Watch the muay Thai fighters in the ring as they throw kicks and strikes with passion. Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium offers several types of tickets, where you can choose you seating spot.
16. Patpong Night Market
This is a fun place to look for fairly cheap products and tasty street food in the evening. The neighborhood around Patpong is also known for its nightlife and adult entertainment such as strip clubs and bars. But be careful of thieves and scammers. Better bring cash and leave your wallet at hotel.
17. Suan Luang Rama 9 Park
Take a walk in this large, well-maintained park located in Prawet District. Suan Luang Rama 9 Park includes botanical gardens and an exhibition pavilion. There is also a flower festival with many booths held in the park every December.
18. CentralWorld
The lifestyle shopping complex is one of the largest malls in Asia. Enjoy the modern design of the building as you hunt for something to buy in the many shops. CentralWorld is connected to BTS station and features a large square with 400 dancing fountain and an Apple Store nearby.
19. Wat Saket
Also known as the Golden Mount, the 19th century temple is located on top of hill with beautiful views of Rattanakosin Island. Climb some 300 steps before arriving at the main chedi and prepare your camera since the surrounding is very picturesque.
20. Chao Phraya River Cruise
Hop into one of the many cruise services taking you to a trip along Chao Phraya River. This is a good way to enjoy the scenery of Bangkok as the river banks are dotted with many landmarks and iconic buildings such as Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Rama VIII Bridge.
21. Ancient Siam
Located some 30 km (18.6 miles) south to Bangkok, Ancient Siam is a massive open-air museum park in the geographical shape of Thailand. Covering an area of 320 hectares (791 acres), Ancient Siam consists of 116 traditional structures, mostly based on actual monuments throughout Thailand.
If you know other interesting spots to see and things to do in Bangkok, don't hesitate to tell us in the comment section.
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