Some call it the “Great City of Angels,” others call it “City of Life;” whatever the name may be, it doesn’t change the fact that Bangkok’s one of the most exciting destinations to visit in Asia the world! It’s ranked as the “Second Best City in the World” and the “Best City in Asia for Digital Nomads” in 2022 according to the Instant Group—now that says A LOT about the city!
Glamour, shopping, food, adventure, and entertainment; you’ll never run out of things to do in Bangkok! From Indiana Jones-approved temples to thrilling Muay Thai (kickboxing) matches, we’ve got your Bangkok travel bucket list covered:
- Bask in the splendour of the Grand Palace
- Marvel at the world’s most famous Reclining Buddha
- Conquer Wat Arun
- Cruise the Chao Phraya River
- Experience Bangkok's floating markets
- Master the art of haggling at Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Sample the best Pad Thai in Chinatown
- Be dazzled by Bangkok’s city lights at night
- Encounter rare creatures at Safari World Bangkok
- Step inside the Jim Thompson House
- Party all night at Khao San Road
- Visit the old capital of Siam
- Discover the hidden secrets of the Ancient City
- Attend a traditional Thai puppet show at the Artist’s House
- Blast off to thrilling adventures at Dream World
- Watch a Muay Thai match
- Catch the sunset at Baiyoke Observation Deck
- Indulge in a Thai massage
1. Bask in the splendour of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Spot some of the most jaw-dropping Thai architecture inside the large palace complex! Image credits: @schwen1900 on Instagram
If you can only visit one palace in Bangkok, the Grand Palace is it. The palace was built in 1782 and was home to generations of Thai kings until 1925. Today, you can visit its magnificent abode and see some of the most awe-inspiring Thai architecture inside the palace complex. From towering spires and massive throne halls made with gold to the postcard-worthy Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it’s one grand place you can’t miss!
2. Marvel at the world’s most famous Reclining Buddha
Nothing can prep you for the Reclining Buddha’s colossal size! Image credits: @alexsierra16 on Instagram
Bangkok has a long list of destinations where you can achieve nirvana—and Wat Pho, which is famous for its Reclining Buddha, is among the best. Spanning 46 metres wide and 15 metres high, the Reclining Buddha lazily watches over temple visitors praying for luck.
3. Conquer Wat Arun
Wat Arun is also known as the “Temple of Dawn.” Image credits: @felgra_photography on Instagram
When you travel to Thailand, you can’t miss Wat Arun…literally! This stunning spectacle of white towering prangs stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Upon entering, you’ll be treated to lush gardens and ancient sculptures that make for the perfect Instagram pic. However, the cherry on top of this iconic Bangkok landmark is its spectacular overlooking city scenery!
#KlookTip: Shorts and tank tops are not allowed inside the temple grounds, so dress accordingly. Don’t want to ruin your outfit? You can always rent a sarong outside the temple walls for as low as 20 baht (roughly less than a dollar).
4. Cruise the Chao Phraya River
A fun way to sightsee around Bangkok is with a cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
With winding waters and fabulous views of Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho, it’s no surprise that the Chao Phraya River is nicknamed the “Venice of the East.” This busy riverside has a lively atmosphere, jam-packed with locals and tourists ferrying across its waters daily. Spot some of the top attractions in Bangkok when you take a scenic boat ride around the Chao Phraya River.
#KlookTip: When you book the Bangkok Discovery Half-Day Tour with Klook, you’ll explore the river’s waterways and best temples, including the Temple of the Golden Buddha and Wat Arun!
5. Experience Bangkok’s floating markets
A once-in-a-lifetime-experience only in Thailand! Image credits: @fashioninsuitcases on Instagram
Tick floating markets off your “things to do in Bangkok” bucket list when you visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Amphawa Floating Market. This extraordinary experience offers a rare chance to shop through rows of boats that line the river. From fresh fruits and hot, tasty “boat noodles” to quirky trinkets and local crafts—you can find just about anything! Bonus: if you go on a Floating Markets Tour, you’ll also visit the Maeklong Railway Market, where a train passes right by the place!
#KlookTip: Beware of boat jams, and head out as early as 8 AM to avoid the crowds!
6. Master the art of haggling at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Seen these elephant pants? Chances are they’re from Bangkok! Image credits: @ii_wander_er on Instagram
Aside from temples and river cruises, did you know that Thais are expert hagglers? When you visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, you’ll have the true Bangkok experience of respectfully bargaining with stall vendors for the best price. Whether you’re shopping for traditional handicrafts to take home or knock-off Nikes to show off, there are over 15,000 stalls in the market!
#KlookTip: Save this trip for the weekend! This market only opens from Friday to Sunday, 6 PM to 12 AM.
7. Sample the best Pad Thai in Chinatown
Dinner is served! Image credits: Markus Winkler on Unsplash
Word of advice: follow your belly! One of the must-try things to do in Bangkok is savouring the best Thai dishes in town. From Pad Thai to oyster omelettes and barbecued seafood, Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, is the premier street food haunt packed with sumptuous treats and delicious surprises to tickle your tastebuds!
8. Be dazzled by Bangkok’s city lights at night
Ah, incredible music, amazing food, and Bangkok’s shining lights!
You’ve seen Bangkok during the day, but how about at night? As the sun goes down, the city lights take over. From sky-high towers to Wat Arun, Bangkok shines—and the best way to admire them is with a relaxing boat cruise. Aboard the luxurious Royal Princess Cruise, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable dinner while slowly falling in love with the lively Bangkok skyline—perfect for a romantic evening out.
9. Encounter rare creatures at Safari World Bangkok
Make new friends during your BKK trip. Image credits: @fimijianchii on Instagram
Whether you’re travelling with the fam or just an animal lover, one of the top things to do in Bangkok is visit Safari World. Spend a relaxing day exploring the wild animal kingdom and come face-to-face with Thailand’s most exotic critters. Inside the Safari Park, you’ll get real close and cosy with the white tigers and the gentle giraffes. Over at the Marine Park, spot the friendly dolphins swimming, singing, and showing off their talents.
10. Step inside the Jim Thompson House
The Jim Thompson is known for its signature blood red teak wood houses. Image credits: @cloud9passport on Instagram
The Jim Thompson House is perhaps the artsiest place in the city, offering an exquisite collection of Thai silks and six teak houses filled with potted plants and curious antiquities. Though, that’s only half of what makes this gallery fascinating. Behind the art hides a mystery that has yet to be unravelled: the strange disappearance of its owner, the self-made American entrepreneur, Jim Thompson, who vanished in 1967 and was never seen again.
11. Party all night at Khao San Road
Find all the party animals in Khao San Road! Image credits: @sohevler on Instagram
Don’t miss out on the city’s vibrant nightlife when in Thailand! The Land of Smiles is best-known for its boozy drinks and late-night adventures at Khao San Road. Whether it’s cheap grubs you’re looking for or wild tales to share with your mates back home, this neighbourhood is bursting with all the goods to have a great time: hole-in-the-wall restaurants, groovy clubs, and affordable hostels for late-night revellers!
12. Visit the old capital of Siam
The old capital was founded in 1350 and flourished ‘til the 18th century. Image credits: @airracoon on Instagram
Trade Bangkok’s cityscape with a visit to the ancient capital, Ayutthaya. Just an hour away from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts secret chambers, sprawling temples, stone statues, and plenty of old ruins to explore and channel your inner Indiana Jones!
#KlookTip: Enjoy worry-free travel with Klook! With a Day Tour of Ayutthaya, you’ll see the best sights, such as the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, Wat Mahathat, and more—hotel-pick ups included!
13. Discover the hidden secrets of the Ancient City
Spice up your Instagram feed by taking jaw-dropping selfies at the Ancient City.
Another cultural gem you need to see is the Ancient City. Down the south of the modern capital, the Ancient City lets you discover the beauty of Thailand with its 116 replicas of iconic Thai monuments and landmarks. We’re sure that your camera roll will fill up in no time! As part of the Klook package, you’ll also stop by the Erawan Museum, where the world’s largest hand-carved three-headed elephant sculpture is displayed!
14. Attend a traditional Thai Puppet Show at the Artist’s House
The Artist’s House is at least 200 years old. Image credits: @chupajubjang on Instagram
The Artist’s House, known as “Khlong Bang Luang” in Thai, is among the unique destinations in Bangkok. An old wooden house tucked away in the charming riverside neighbourhood of Thonburi, the Artist’s House is a hub for artists, art lovers, and creative minds to gather, grab a coffee, admire quirky artworks, and ponder about life. Lucky visitors even get treated to a traditional puppet show every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons.
15. Blast off to thrilling adventures at Dream World
Bring your best mates for a thrilling time! Image credits: @_breeow on Instagram
Thrill-seekers are welcome to try the most rip-roaring rides at Dream World Bangkok. Whether it’s zooming in the air like The Flash at the Sky Coaster and Tornado, getting drenched at Super Splash, or stepping inside the enchanted castle at Photopia, the entire fam is in it for an action-packed day of adventure!
16. Watch a Muay Thai match
Place your bets and see who’ll win the match! Image credits: Pablo Rebolledo on Unsplash
Great news: the city also has something in store for sports fans. A thrilling match of Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport, will pump your adrenaline as players battle it out in the ring! In Bangkok, you can catch exciting kickboxing matches and roar with the crowds at the Rajadamnern Stadium.
17. Catch the sunset at Baiyoke Observation Deck
Feel like you’re on top of the world when you dine at Baiyoke Sky Hotel! Image credits: @thebestxmp on Instagram
Now that you’ve toured Bangkok, what else is there to do in this bustling city? Plenty! There are still heaps of amazing things to do in Bangkok, especially at night when the city light dazzles. To get stellar bird’s eye views, head up 88 floors above at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Thailand’s tallest high-rise building packed with an Observation Deck and a revolving buffet restaurant on top for an out-of-this-world experience!
18. Indulge in a Thai Massage
Wrap up your BKK trip with a Thai massage! Image credits: Conscious Design on Unsplash
Capping off our list of “top things to do in Bangkok” is a Thai massage! After sightseeing tours and exciting activities, you’ll want to relax those tired muscles and unwind with the ultimate pamper sesh. Relish in the aromatic scent of bergamot and eucalyptus as you leave all your worries behind! Prices often start at 500 baht ($20) for a full-body massage—a total bang for the baht (see what we did there?).
Written by: Jianne Uy
