Best 20 things to do in Bangkok, Thailand
Welcome to the bustling city of Bangkok, where the streets are alive with vibrant chaos and the aroma of delicious street food fills the air. In this not-so-serious travel guide, we bring you the best 20 things to do in this wonderfully chaotic city. From exploring elaborate temples that make you question your sense of architectural reality, to haggling your way to a bargained victory at the infamous floating markets, and of course, indulging in the most authentic Thai massage that will have you contorting in ways you didn't even know were possible. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a whirlwind adventure in the city that never fails to surprise, amaze, and make you question the number of stomachs you have for street food.
Save destination1. Wat Phra Kaew
QF2V+M34, Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Welcome to Bangkok, where you can find a temple so glorious, it's like the national lottery of temple visits! Wat Phra Kaew, the majestic abode of the Emerald Buddha, dazzles with golden spires that could make a sunbeam feel insecure. Step foot into this sacred wonderland and feel the gravity-defying urge to duck under the non-existent low doorways that will only get your imaginary hat knocked off!
Learn more2. Siam Paragon
991 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Welcome to the extravagant and opulent wonderland that is Siam Paragon in Bangkok! This shopper's paradise is more luxurious than a flamingo sipping champagne on a golden carousel. With a mind-boggling array of high-end fashion, drool-worthy cuisine, and fancier-than-fancy boutiques, it's the perfect place to indulge your inner diva or, let's be honest, to pretend to be one for a day. Don't forget to pack your self-control, because once you step foot in this retail temple, it's easy to lose both your senses and your savings!
Learn more3. Golden Mount
344 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Khwaeng Ban Bat, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Nestled amidst the vibrant chaos of Bangkok, the Golden Mount stands tall, like a beacon of serenity for weary tourists in need of respite. Legend has it that it houses a magical elevator that transports visitors to a realm where calorie counts don't exist, but alas, it remains as elusive as a unicorn riding a rainbow. Ascending the seemingly infinite stairs to the top is a workout worthy of the most enthusiastic fitness enthusiast, but fear not, for the panoramic view of the sprawling city below is the ultimate reward – and well worth the throbbing calves and questionable breath.
Learn more4. Wat Benchamabophit
วัดเบญจมบพิตร Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300, Thailand
Welcome to Wat Benchamabophit, a temple in Bangkok that also goes by a tongue-twisting nickname: the Marble Temple. Prepare to have your jaw drop like an elephant taking a detour to the jewelry store as you witness its stunning white marble exterior. Inside, you'll be greeted by an army of gold Buddha statues, standing tall and shining like they just won the lottery. Don't forget to strike a pose for the ultimate Instagrammable moment, but remember, no selfie stick can capture the true awesomeness of this temple, so be prepared to be blown away!
Learn more5. Wat Saket
344 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Khwaeng Ban Bat, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Bangkok, Wat Saket, affectionately known as the Golden Mount, is the ultimate workout package for lazy travelers. Brace yourself for a mini mountain climbing expedition disguised as a religious visit. Ascend a gazillion stairs (it feels like a gazillion, trust me) to reach the temple atop, and if you're not out of breath by the end, you might just qualify for an Olympic event. Pro tip: pack your best stair-climbing shoes and a sense of humor because this temple will test both your physical endurance and your ability to laugh at yourself.
Learn more6. Asiatique The Riverfront
2194 Charoen Krung Rd, Khwaeng Wat Phraya Krai, Khet Bang Kho Laem, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok is like a shiny oasis amidst the bustling chaos of the city. It's this quirky blend of a night market and a fancy shopping mall, as if they decided to have a love-child after a wild night out. With its stunning riverside location, it's the perfect spot to indulge in retail therapy while enjoying a cool breeze – just try not to get distracted by the giant Ferris wheel, because that's a whole other level of "shopping experience."
Learn more7. Chatuchak Weekend Market
587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10900, Thailand
Welcome to the magical realm of Chatuchak Weekend Market, a bustling fiesta for shopaholics and bargain hunters alike. This whimsical wonderland stretches across a colossal landscape, beckoning you with its labyrinthine alleys and endless stalls. It's a place where you can find anything from funky elephant pants to squid-shaped ice cream cones - just don't be surprised if you accidentally bring home a live rooster as a souvenir.
Learn more8. Street Food Tour
14/9 Soi Mooban Wandee Khwaeng Samsen Nai, Khet Phaya Thai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand
Welcome to Bangkok, the land of culinary delights and traffic jams! If you're a foodie adventurer looking to tickle your taste buds while risking your life crossing the chaotic streets, then embarking on a street food tour is an absolute must. Get ready to feast on mouthwatering satay skewers, slurp up aromatic bowls of steaming noodle soup, and dodge speeding tuk-tuks as you explore the vibrant flavors of this tantalizing city.
Learn more9. Wat Pho
2 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Welcome to Wat Pho, the ultimate destination for tired soles and wandering souls alike! Get ready to marvel at this magnificent temple, which not only houses the legendary Reclining Buddha - seriously, it's so big, it's practically practicing yoga - but also serves as a sanctuary for feet longing for some love and care. Yes, you heard that right! Wat Pho is home to an army of talented masseurs, armed with their magical hands and Thai massage skills to knead away your travel woes. Prepare to have your jaw drop, not just at the majestic beauty of Wat Pho, but also at the intricate details that make you wonder, "did they hire ants with tiny paintbrushes to do this?" This sacred space is adorned with vivid colors, elaborate murals, and countless statues of mythical creatures that seem to have flown straight out of a Disney movie. Seriously, if you encounter a talking dragon or a meditating unicorn, just play along - those are not part of the folklore, it's just Wat Pho's way of keeping you on your toes. Oh, and brace yourself for a foot massage like no other. Get ready to partake in an experience that will leave you wondering whether you're being pleasantly massaged or your feet are being trained for a marathon. Fair warning: as talented as these therapists are, don't hold your breath hoping they'll reattach any accidentally-detached toes. You might have to leave the temple showcasing your newfound wobbling masterpieces, but hey, at least you can safely say you had a truly immersive Thai culture experience!
Learn more10. Floating Market
30/1 หมู่ที่ 15 Thanon Bang Ramat, Khwaeng Bang Ramat, Khet Taling Chan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10170, Thailand
Welcome to the bustling and bewildering Floating Market in Bangkok, where shopping meets water acrobatics! This unique place is a carnival of color, as vendors skillfully paddle their way through the canal, offering everything from fresh fruits to flamboyant souvenirs. Be prepared for a hilarious game of "haggle and haggle some more," as you negotiate with floating salespeople, who somehow manage to keep their balance while bartering with you over a coconut hat.
Learn more11. Wat Arun
158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
Welcome to the majestic Wat Arun, also known as the "Temple of Dawn" in Bangkok, where it seems like even the sun has to make an effort to rise as magnificently as this grand structure! Brace yourself to climb the temple's steep steps, which were probably designed by a mischievous architect with a wicked sense of humor. Once you catch your breath, be prepared to feast your eyes on the mesmerizing mosaic and porcelain decorations, reminding you that someone must have raided the entire Chinatown for these jaw-dropping treasures!
Learn more12. Grand Palace
Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Welcome to the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where history and opulence collide like a clumsy tourist in a fancy hotel lobby. Prepare to be dazzled by the golden stupas and intricate architecture, so ostentatious it puts Las Vegas to shame. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the famous Emerald Buddha, a teeny-tiny statue that packs more holiness than your average Instagram influencer.
Learn more13. Chao Phraya River
Bangkok, Thailand
Welcome to the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok's bustling aquatic artery that never fails to keep the local fish on their fins! Flowing through the city like a caffeine-induced conversation, this river is the lifeblood of Bangkok, where the chaotic charm of tuk-tuks on land meets the enthralling chaos of long-tail boats on water. Hop aboard and get ready for a river safari that will make you feel like Indiana Jones, but with fewer snakes and more street food options.
Learn more14. Lumpini Park
Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Welcome to Lumpini Park, Bangkok's oasis in the midst of hustle and bustle! This green haven is the place where office workers, tourists, and health enthusiasts celebrate their mutual desire to escape the gridlock of the city. Don't forget to pack your yoga mat – you're about to twist and turn like a warrior amidst joggers, tai chi masters, and monitor lizards who are clearly vying for the outlandish park mascot award!
Learn more15. MBK Center
444 Phaya Thai Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Nestled in the lively heart of Bangkok lies MBK Center, a shopaholic's paradise disguised as a mall. With its countless floors and winding corridors, it's a place where lost souls can navigate through a labyrinth of fashion and gadgets, hoping to stumble upon the holy grail of discounts. Prepare yourselves for a wild ride through this retail jungle, where haggling is an unofficial sport and your bargaining skills will be put to the test.
Learn more16. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
939 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bangkok, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is like a hipster hangout for art enthusiasts. Its sleek architecture stands out amidst the bustling cityscape like a quirky artist in a sea of suit-clad businessmen. Once you step inside, get ready to be dazzled by a medley of contemporary art, culture, and enough hipster vibes to make your man bun spontaneously grow an extra curl.
Learn more17. Erawan Shrine
494 Thanon Ratchadamri, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Welcome to the Erawan Shrine, also known as the "Oasis of Wow" in the bustling city of Bangkok! Prepare to have your jaw drop and your eyes pop as you witness a magical fusion of spirituality and vibrant spectacle. This gem of a shrine stands tall, inviting you to marvel at its golden statues and colorful offerings, ensuring you'll leave feeling not just enlightened, but also like you've just been on a whimsical fever dream.
Learn more18. Jim Thompson House
6 Soi Kasem San 2, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Welcome to the marvellously mysterious Jim Thompson House in Bangkok, where vibrant tales and vibrant silks collide! Step into the world of this enigmatic American businessman turned silk aficionado, as you explore his impeccably preserved Thai-style home. Delve into the inexplicable disappearance of this legendary figure and immerse yourself in the vivid colors, lush gardens, and bewitching artifacts that await your curious eyes.
Learn more19. Bangkok National Museum
QF5R+6MP, Soi Na Phra That, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Welcome to the Bangkok National Museum, where time seems to have taken a break and history has started throwing a massive exhibition. Be prepared to embark on a whirlwind tour of Thailand's rich past, complete with fantastical artifacts and archaeological oddities that would make Indiana Jones humble. With its labyrinthine halls and surprising abundance of ancient treasures, this museum is like a treasure hunt brought to life - just don't be surprised if you encounter a friendly ghost or two along the way!
www.virtualmuseum.finearts.go.th
Learn more20. Wat Traimit
661 Charoen Krung Rd, Khwaeng Talat Noi, Khet Samphanthawong, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Welcome to Wat Traimit, the golden nugget (literally) of Bangkok! This spectacular temple boasts a colossal gold Buddha statue that shines brighter than my future without sunscreen. Make sure to bring your shades because if this statue ever decides to pull a Beyoncé and starts singing, it could blind you with its dazzling bling!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Bangkok, Thailand by plane is to fly to Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the main international airport located in the Bang Phli district, about 30 kilometers east of the city center.
Car
The best way to get to Bangkok, Thailand by car is to drive from nearby cities such as Pattaya or Ayutthaya. The main highways that lead into Bangkok are the 1, 3, and 9.
Train
There are several train stations in Bangkok, but the most convenient for getting to the city is Hua Lamphong, which is the main railway station located in the Pathum Wan district.
Boat
The best way to get to Bangkok, Thailand by boat is to take a ferry along the Chao Phraya River, which runs through the city. There are several piers along the river where you can catch a ferry, including the Tha Chang Pier and the Sathorn Pier.
Bus
The best way to get to Bangkok, Thailand by bus is to take a VIP or first class bus from neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Laos or Vietnam. The Southern Bus Terminal and Northern Bus Terminal are the two main bus terminals in Bangkok.