Top 10 Things To Do In Bangkok – Bangkok Must See Attractions

Visitors from all over the world see Thailand as a land of wonder, religion, culture, history, and excitement. There is perhaps no other city in Thailand that embodies these qualities than the Thai Capital – Bangkok. From majestic palaces, temples to beautiful parks to happening nightlife. Wherever you look, there is always something new to discover in Bangkok. Particularly for first time Bangkok visitors, here are the top 10 things to do in Bangkok – Bangkok Must See Attractions that you simply can’t afford to miss.

1. Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) & Chao Phraya River

Often known as the most stunning temple in Bangkok, Wat Arun resides on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River. The facade of this temple differs from most of the other temples in Bangkok. If you look close enough, you will realise that Wat Arun is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires. With the river within its composition, Wat Arun is a majestic sight from afar.

Address: West of Chao Praya River | Opening hours: 8.30am – 5.30pm | Getting there: Take the Skytrain to Saphan Taksin, exit to Central Pier 8. You need to take a riverboat for 3 baht to Tha Tien Pier | Temple Fee: 100 Baht

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2. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

Both locals and visitors adore Bangkok’s floating markets!  Khlong Lat Mayom is one of the three floating markets located closest to the Thai Capital. Unlike the touristy Damnoen Saduak or over-crowded Amphawa, this market exudes the charm and authenticity of a local floating market and you would probably one of the only foreigners around. Local market culture has deep roots in Thai daily life and eating out is fun, cheap and casual. Remember to try their famous boat noodles while you are there!

Address: 30/15 Moo 11 Talatnam Khlong Lat Mayom, Bang Ramat Road | Khwaeng Bang Ramat, Khet Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand | Opening hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm (Sat & Sun Only) | Getting there: You can get a taxi from Wongwian Yai BTS station.

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3. The Grand Palace

Completed in 1782, the majestic Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmark. The palace has functioned 150 years as the home of the Thai King and served as the Royal court and the administrative seat of government. Till today, it still continues to awe visitors with its gorgeous architecture and intricate details – a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people.

Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Old City (Rattanakosin) | Opening hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm | Getting there: Get off at Saphan Thaksin Station and take boat from Sathron Central Boat Pier No. 9 | Fee: 400 Baht

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4. Wat Pra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historic centre of Bangkok and within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the temple enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (Emerald Buddha), the highly revered Buddha meticulously carved from a single block of jade.

Address: Na Phralan, Phra Nakorn (within The Grand Palace grounds) | Opening hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm | Getting there: Get off at Saphan Thaksin Station and take boat from Sathron Central Boat Pier No. 9 | Fee: 500 Baht

*As a sign of respect, shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops aren’t allowed. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance, but it would better if you come appropriately dressed if you’re going to visit this temple.

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5. Jim Thompson’s House

Located on the bank of Saen Saeb Canal, the house was the elegant residential enclave of Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk King. Known for his passion in reviving the art of Thai silk, his home echoes his 30-year love affair with South-east Asian art and cultural heritage. After he mysteriously disappeared in 1967, his abode was turned into a museum in memory of his dedication to Thai silk.

Address: Thanon Rama I, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10400, Thailand | Tel: +6602 216 7368 l Opening hours: 9am – 5pm | Getting there: Few minutes from the Soi Kasemsam 2 from the BTS National Stadium Station Exit 1 | Website: The Jim Thompson House l Facebook:  jimthompsonhouse

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6. Yaowarat (Chinatown)

Bangkok’s Chinatown is a must visit for food lovers who are into exotic street-side cuisine once the night falls. Of course, you can also visit during the day to purchase staples, trade gold, or pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples. Oozing with market stalls, street-side restaurants and a dense concentration of gold shops, plan your visit during major festivals, like Chinese New Year for the ultimate experience. Dig into cheap Chinese delicacies such as shark fin soup and bird nest while you are there!

Address: Mangkon Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100 | Getting there: Alight Saphan Taksin BTS, get to Sathorn Pier. Take a riverboat to Ratchawongse, Pier #5. It’s a short walk from Ratchawong to Chinatown.

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7. Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market with its 35 acres area size and 27 sections comprises of 8,000 stores and merchandise which will literally make you shop till you drop. More than 200,000 locals and visitors visit the market on a typical weekend to sift through the goods on offer. Veteran shoppers would agree that just about everything is on sale but not all at the best bargain rates. If you have only one weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market. You will not be disappointed.

Address:Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok | Opening hours: 9am – 6pm (Sat & Sun) & 6pm – 12am Midnight (Fri) | Getting there: Alight BTS Mo Chit or MRT Chatuchak Park Station Exit 1

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8. Rod Fai Night Market

Rot Fai Market (Train Market) is an authentic open-air bazaar selling an amazing spread of vintage collectables and memorabilia. With three sections to this huge market space, you will find an assortment of traders selling a variety of wares from modern fashion and apparel antique furniture to hippy fashion and one-off, hard to find items that really make Rot Fai Market superior to all other night markets in the city. 

Address: Srinakarin Road Soi 51 (behind Seacon Square) l Opening Hours: 5pm – 12am Midnight (Thurs – Sun) l Getting there: Taxi from BTS On Nut

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9. Soi Cowboy

This part of town can be said to be the equivalent of Las Vegas and Nevada. Flashing neon-lined the colourful streetscape comprised mainly of middle-aged expats, Japanese and western tourists, and a lot of scantily dressed girls. With cries of ‘helloooa, welcome!’ these ladies will try to lure you into their respective go-go bars. Entry is always free and drink prices are fixed but it is not the place to be when you are with your wife or girlfriend.

Address: Sukhumvit Road between Asoke Road (Soi 21) and Sukhumvit Soi 23 l Opening Hours: After 6pm to pass midnight l Getting there: Alight Asoke Station (Skytrain) or the Sukhumvit Station (MRT)

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10. Khao San Road

Experience quintessential Bangkok at this bustling street where East Meets West. Better known as a backpacker street, you can find anything from sleek clubs to eccentric market stalls to eclectic food. Its irrepressible energy and carefree vibe make this part of town well worth a visit.

Getting there: Taxi from Victory Monument, Siam, or Silom BTS Station

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Of course, there is a lot more to Bangkok than just the above attractions. We hope our list will help you to get started with exploring what this amazing city has to offer. Share with us your experience and favourite local spot when you are back!