The 9 Best Things to do in Bangkok
Visit Temples
There are over 30,000 temples in Bangkok! Temples range is size - and this list will break down some of the most famous ones with a little background information.
Some temples date as far back as the 18th century and are so grande you will easily find yourself in awe at the marvelous architecture that has lasted centuries.
Architecture:
Temples in Thailand have certain characteristics that are easily identifiable with Thai culture such as colorful mosaic tilework, ornately peaked roofs, and intricate carvings in stone or wood. Each temple in Bangkok has a distinct characteristic that makes it easily identifiable i,e. the golden Buddha, or the relaxing Buddha.
Religion:
Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand. Whilst visiting temples, you may catch a glimpse of religious ceremonies in action. Monks still reside in temples today and daily rituals occur throughout the day. If you are lucky to see a ceremony during your visit, it is advised to abstain from photos, remove your shoes and quietly take in the experience.
Some of the most famous and standout temples are:
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
The Reclining Buddha is 15 meters tall and 46 meters long!
This is one of those sites that you simply canNOT miss if you are visiting Bangkok.
Pro Tips:
Entry tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter for about $12 USD.
Wear an outfit that covers your shoulders and goes past your knees. If you happen to be under-dressed, you will be offered a shawl prior to entering the temple.
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When you think of Bangkok, you likely think of towering skyscrapers. You will also find a unique mix of traditional markets sprinkled throughout the city offering a unique contrast to a modern city nestled in history.
Whether it is your first visit to Bangkok or you are a seasoned traveler, Bangkok offers such rich experiences that every visit is captivating.
Come along as this guide will take you through vibrant streets, world-renowned markets and to rooftop gems uncovering some of the best places in Bangkok.
Top 9 Things to Do in Bangkok:
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Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
This temple is named after Aruna, the Hindu god of the dawn.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
This temple is actually one of Bangkok’s most revered landmarks and is located within close proximity to the Grand Palace.
The Emerald Buddha holds incredible significance symbolizing the divine protector of Thailand.
The Temples can get quite crowded during the day - I would recommend considering a private tour of these top 3 temples by clicking here.
Check out this top-rated private tour here
2. Cruise the Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is one of the most significant landmarks in Bangkok sourcing from northern Thailand and formerly used heavily for the transport of rice.
Today the Chao Phraya River is still used to carry goods throughout Thailand and more recently used for tourist rides along the river.
I think riding along the River at least once is a bucket-list experience because it offers a glimpse of the beautiful Bangkok landscape where you can see Temples and the Grand Palace along the shoreline. It is just a different vantage point that is worth witnessing with your own eyes.
PRO TIP: You can board a small transport boat from Wat Pho to Wat Arun that will take you across the Chao Phraya River for a few US dollars.
DISCLAIMER: This is not a luxurious boat, but a quick way to get from one temple to the next.
3. Go to a Rooftop Bar
There are SO many rooftop bars around Bangkok that I will say, you do not have to go out of your way to visit an incredible one. Bangkok’s skyline is renowned for its beauty and unique architecture that you can see throughout the city.
Here are a list of some of my most recommended bars:
4. Visit a Floating Market
There are quite a few different floating markets that you can visit in Bangkok or by taking a day trip outside of Bangkok.
(Stay tuned for a post on the different floating markets).
The most famous floating market is - the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
This market is about 1.5 hours away from Bangkok.
My advice is IF you choose to go to this market - combine this with visiting the Maeklong Railway Market (see below).
Travelers warning: It is incredible to see this floating market but this is a VERY touristy site. You can expect to see a lot of vendors soliciting your attention from every direction. It can feel a bit overwhelming.
My advice is, order food and a. drink and proceed to ride a long tail boat through the market to get an idea of the layout of the market. And THEN walk around to check out individual vendor stalls. You can find the same souvenirs repeat throughout the market and can easily return for the best price.
PRO TIP: I found the prices at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to be LESS than prices in central Bangkok, so this is a good place to buy gifts for family and friends back home.
5. Visit Maeklong Railway Market
You may have seen this famous market on Instagram - this market has a train that runs right through a market multiple times per day. Every day, four times per day, local vendors pack up all of their items and remove it from the train’s path.
I highly recommend this tour as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
PRO TIP: Walk towards the back of the market where you will find less crowds and a bit more space to take photos and videos.
For more info on train times click here.
6. Eat Street Food
No trip to Bangkok is complete without eating street food! Don’t be afraid to embark on this culinary adventure where you can eat meat skewers, seafood, delicacies, famous Thai dishes and fresh exotic fruits.
I personally ate street food EVERY day and found it to be such an affordable and easy option for quick snacks.
Check out my blog on MUST-try dishes here
Pro Tip: For an unparalleled experience sampling ALL of the street food in one place - I highly recommend One Ratchada Night Market.
Here you will find everything from pad thai, mango sticky rice, meat skewers, fresh juices, boba tea, jumping shrimp salad - you name it, One Ratchada has it.
7. Explore Chinatown
Chinatown in Bangkok dates back to 300 years ago and is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the WORLD!
Over the centuries Chinatown has preserved its heritage filling the streets with traditional Chinese architecture, shops, and restaurants whilst being a staple amongst the Bangkok skyscrapers.
8. Explore Chatuchak Weekend Market
This is the LARGEST market in all of Thailand (and to be debated - but some say in the entire world).
There are over 15,000 vendor stalls spread across 35 acres. Here you will find plenty of food spots, art, antiques, clothing stores and souvenirs. Be prepared to spend a few hours here taking it all in!
PRO TIP: Bring cash! Yes some vendors take card BUT we found quite a bit that did not take cards.
PRO TIP: You can find linen clothing here at great prices. I purchased 1 pant set + 3 tops for $20 USD. This vendor was cash only - so even more of a reason to bring cash!
9. Explore Bangkok nightlife
Don’t be afraid to venture out at night and experience the buzzing nightlife of Bangkok. Khaosan Road is a pretty famous street in Bangkok - most commonly a place where backpackers gather.
If you are curious to explore a more eclectic experience, there are four red-light districts sprinkled around Bangkok.
From the intricate temples to the vibrant energy of the night markets, Bangkok offers a unique travel experience that will be a core memory for a lifetime.
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Meet Priscilla Wanders
A Texas-born traveler exploring life abroad and documenting all the travels in between.