Best Places to Visit in Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of ancient culture and modern convenience. It’s a city that never sleeps, with a plethora of attractions and activities to keep visitors engaged throughout their stay. From shopping malls to temples, from street food to fine dining, Bangkok truly has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we will explore and give you idea about what are the best places to visit in Bangkok. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these attractions are sure to leave you mesmerized.

1. The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangkok and one of the best places to visit for anyone interested in Thai history and culture. This majestic palace was built in 1782 and served as the residence of the Thai king for over 150 years.

Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the grandeur and elegance of Thai architecture.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is home to several buildings and temples, including the famous Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered religious artifact. Visitors can explore The Grand Palace Wat buildings and temples, including the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The palace is also home to several museums and galleries, where visitors can learn more about Thai art and history.

2. Wat Arun

Another iconic temple in Bangkok is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River. This temple’s most striking feature is its central spire, which is adorned with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain pieces. The temple is particularly beautiful during sunset when the sun’s rays reflect off the porcelain and create a stunning visual spectacle.

Visitors can climb to the top of the central spire for breathtaking views of the city and the Chao Phraya River. It’s important to note that visitors must dress modestly when visiting temples in Thailand, with covered shoulders and knees.

3. Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market, also known as JJ Market, is one of the largest markets in the world and one of the best places to visit in Bangkok, Thailand. It covers an area of over 35 acres and has more than 15,000 stalls, selling everything from clothing and accessories to antiques and souvenirs.

The market is only open on weekends, from early morning until late afternoon, and attracts both locals and tourists alike. It is divided into different sections, including clothing, furniture, food, and pets, among others. It can be quite crowded, so visitors should be prepared for a busy and bustling atmosphere.

One of the most popular sections of the market is the food area, where visitors can sample a variety of Thai dishes, including seafood, noodles, and grilled meats. The market also has a section dedicated to traditional Thai crafts, such as silk weaving and woodcarving, and is a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is easily accessible by public transportation, and visitors should plan to spend several hours exploring the market and taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant shopping destination.

4. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is a popular street located in the Banglamphu area of Bangkok, Thailand. It is known as the backpacker hub of the city and is a popular destination for budget travelers. The street is lined with budget guesthouses, street food stalls, bars, shops, and travel agencies.

Khao San Road is a vibrant and bustling area with a lively atmosphere, particularly at night when it comes alive with street performers, music, and party-goers. Visitors can explore the area on foot and experience the local culture and cuisine.

Some of the popular activities to do in Khao San Road include shopping for souvenirs, trying street food, and enjoying the nightlife. Visitors can also visit nearby attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.

5. Jim Thompson’s House

Jim Thompson was an American businessman who is credited with revitalizing the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. His former home, the Jim Thompson’s House, is now a museum that showcases his extensive art collection and Thai antiques.

The house is a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture, with several buildings connected by lush gardens and walkways. Guided tours are available, and visitors can learn about Jim Thompson’s fascinating life and legacy.

6. Chinatown

Chinatown in Bangkok is a bustling neighborhood that’s full of energy and excitement. It’s home to some of the city’s best street food, with vendors selling everything from dim sum to roasted duck.

The neighborhood is also famous for its gold shops and traditional medicine stores. Visitors can stroll down Yaowarat Road, the main street in Chinatown, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the area. There are also several temples in the neighborhood, including the beautiful Wat Mangkon Kamalawat.

7. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Wat Pho in Bangkok, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a Buddhist temple located in the Phra Nakhon district . It is one of the oldest and largest temples in the city and is renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha statue, which measures 46 meters long and 15 meters high.

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha complex dates back to the 16th century and was originally established as a center for education and traditional Thai massage. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and is also still used as a center for learning, with a school of traditional medicine and massage located on the temple grounds.

In addition to the famous reclining Buddha statue, Wat Pho also houses more than 1,000 Buddha images and a collection of ancient murals, as well as a beautifully landscaped garden and several other smaller temples and shrines. Visitors can explore the temple complex on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this important cultural landmark.

8. Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit is a Buddhist temple located in the Chinatown area and one of the best places to visit in Bangkok, Thailand. It is famous for its massive solid gold Buddha statue, which is the largest in the world. The statue stands 15 feet tall and weighs over 5 tons, and is valued at over $250 million USD.

The temple itself is believed to date back to the 13th century, but the current structure was built in the mid-19th century. In addition to the gold Buddha statue, the temple also contains a museum that showcases the history of Chinatown and the surrounding area.

Wat Traimit is a popular tourist attraction in Bangkok, and visitors can enter the temple for a small fee. The temple is open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

9. Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon is one of Bangkok’s largest and most luxurious shopping malls. The mall is home to over 250 stores, including high-end fashion brands, electronics stores, and gourmet food markets.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including a cinema complex, a bowling alley, and an aquarium. Siam Paragon is easily accessible by public transportation and is a great place to spend a day shopping and relaxing.

10. Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a large outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that’s located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and one of the best places to visit in Bangkok. The complex is designed to look like an old-fashioned warehouse district, with over 1,500 boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

Visitors can shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, sample delicious Thai cuisine, and enjoy live entertainment, including traditional Thai dance performances and live music. There’s also a Ferris wheel that provides stunning views of the city at night.

Asiatique The Riverfront is a great place to spend an evening, and it’s easily accessible by boat from several piers along the river.

11. Lumphini Park

Lumphini Park in Bangkok is the largest public park and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features several lakes, jogging trails, and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of activities, including Tai Chi classes, outdoor aerobics, and traditional Thai massage. The park is open from early morning until late at night and is easily accessible by public transportation.

12. Wat Saket

Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount, is a temple that’s located on a hill in central Bangkok. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill, which offers panoramic views of the city.

The temple itself is also worth exploring, with several ornate buildings and a golden chedi (stupa) that are said to contain relics of the Buddha. Visitors can also participate in the temple’s daily chanting ceremonies, which are said to bring good luck and prosperity. This is indeed one of the best places to visit in Bangkok.

13. Talad Rot Fai Night Market

Talad Rot Fai Night Market, also known as the Train Market, is a popular destination for foodies and vintage shoppers in Bangkok. The market is located in the Srinakarin area and is easily accessible by public transportation.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of street food and drinks, including grilled meats, fresh seafood, and craft beer. Other things to do in Talad Rot Fai is here is to find vintage clothing and accessories, with several stalls selling unique and one-of-a-kind items.

14. Wat Benchamabophit

Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is a beautiful temple that’s made entirely of white marble. The temple is located in the Dusit area and is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful architecture and intricate details, which include several ornate carvings and statues. The temple is also a popular destination for photographers, with its white marble reflecting the sunlight to create a stunning effect.

15. Erawan Shrine

The Erawan Shrine is a Hindu shrine is one of the best attractions in Bangkok located in the heart of the city. It is one of the most popular and respected religious sites in the city, attracting both Thai and foreign visitors. The shrine is dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma, who is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.

The shrine was built in 1956, after the construction of the Erawan Hotel (now the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok) on the same site. The hotel’s developers hired a Hindu priest to bless the building, and the shrine was later constructed as a permanent place of worship.

There are beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, as well as its lively atmosphere in the shrine. Visitors come to offer prayers and make offerings of flowers, incense, and other items to Brahma, who is believed to grant wishes and blessings.

The Erawan Shrine has gained international attention in recent years due to a series of incidents involving the shrine. In 2006, a bomb exploded at the shrine, killing several people and injuring many others. The incident was later linked to political tensions in Thailand. In 2015, a man vandalized the shrine with a hammer, causing significant damage to the statue of Brahma. The incident was believed to be motivated by personal grievances rather than political or religious reasons. Despite these incidents, the Erawan Shrine remains an important cultural and religious site in Bangkok, and continues to attract visitors from around the world.

16. Dusit Zoo

Dusit Zoo Bangkok, also known as Khao Din Wana Park, is a popular destination for families and one of the best places to visit if you are an animal lover. Located in the Dusit district of Bangkok, there are over 1,600 animals, including elephants, tigers, giraffesin the zoo.

In addition to the animal exhibits, Dusit Zoo also has a large lake where visitors can rent paddle boats and enjoy the scenery. The zoo also hosts daily animal shows and feeding sessions, providing visitors with a chance to get up close and personal with the animals. Recently, the zoo announced that it will be moving to a new location outside of Bangkok, so visitors should make sure to check the current status before planning a visit.

17. Floating Markets Bangkok

One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to visit their floating markets, which are popular among locals and tourists alike. These markets offer a unique shopping and dining experience, as vendors sell their goods and food from boats on the water.

Some of the most popular floating markets in Bangkok include:

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating market -This is the largest and most famous floating market in Bangkok, located about 100 km southwest of the city. Here, you can find a variety of food, souvenirs, and traditional Thai products.
2. Amphawa – This market is located about 50 km southwest of Bangkok and is known for its delicious seafood and charming atmosphere. It is particularly popular in the evenings, when vendors sell lanterns and candles to float on the water.
3. Taling Chan – This market is located in the western part of Bangkok and is smaller than Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa markets. Here, you can find a variety of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs.
4. Khlong Lat Mayom – This market is located in the Thonburi area of Bangkok and is known for its authentic Thai food and rural atmosphere. You can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby orchards and farms.
5. Bang Nam Pheung – This market is located in the Bang Nam Pheung district, just a short distance from central Bangkok. Here, you can find a variety of local food, handicrafts, and souvenirs, as well as explore the nearby greenery and cycling paths.

18. Princess Mother Memorial Park

The Princess Mother Memorial Park is a public park located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. It was built to honor the memory of the late Princess Srinagarindra, who was the mother of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the current king of Thailand. The park covers an area of approximately 13 hectares and is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

The park is beautifully landscaped and features a wide variety of plants and trees, as well as a large pond, a fountain, and a statue of the princess. There are also several walking paths throughout the park, as well as benches and picnic areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

One of the main attractions of the park is the Sala Sudasiri Sobha, a cultural center and concert hall that hosts regular performances of traditional Thai music and dance. The center also features a museum that displays artifacts and memorabilia related to the life of the princess. The park is open daily from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm and admission is free. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some tranquility and natural beauty.

19. Siam Paragon Mall

One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to do shopping! Siam Paragon Mall is a luxury shopping mall located in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok, Thailand. It opened in 2005 and is one of the largest shopping malls in Thailand, with over 500 shops and restaurants.

The mall features a wide range of international luxury brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada, as well as a cinema complex, an aquarium, and a wide variety of dining options. It is also home to the largest bookstore in Southeast Asia, Kinokuniya.

Siam Paragon Mall is the popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists, and is known for its high-end fashion boutiques and upscale atmosphere. The mall also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as the Bangkok International Motor Show and the Bangkok International Fashion Week.

Siam Paragon Mall is conveniently located next to the Siam BTS Skytrain station, making it easily accessible for visitors. It is a must-visit destination for those looking for luxury shopping and dining experiences in Bangkok.

20. Sanam Chandra Palace

Sanam Chandra Palace is a historical park located in Nakhon Pathom province, about 50 km west of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace was built in 1907 by King Rama VI as a summer residence for his mother, Queen Saovabha Phongsri, and later became a permanent residence for some members of the royal family.

The palace grounds cover an area of about 40 acres and consist of several buildings, including the Phra Thinang Samakkeemukamart, a beautiful teakwood palace built in traditional Thai style, as well as a Chinese-style pagoda and a European-style mansion. The palace is surrounded by a large park with gardens, ponds, and sculptures.

Today, Sanam Chandra Palace is open to the public as a historical park and museum. Visitors can explore the beautiful palace and gardens, learn about the history of the Thai monarchy, and see exhibitions of royal artifacts and memorabilia. The palace is also home to the Institute of Thai Studies, which conducts research on Thai history, culture, and language. Sanam Chandra Palace is a popular destination for tourists interested in Thai history and culture, as well as a beautiful and peaceful place to visit outside of Bangkok.

21. Vimanmek Mansion

Vimanmek Mansion is a former royal palace is one of the best attractions in Bangkok located in the Dusit district. The palace was built in 1900 by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and is the largest teakwood building in the world. It was originally built on the island of Koh Si Chang in the Gulf of Thailand, but was later relocated to its current location in Bangkok.

Vimanmek Mansion consists of 81 rooms, many of which are decorated with royal memorabilia and antique furniture. Visitors can tour the palace and see the king’s bedroom, reception hall, and private quarters, among other rooms. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a pond.

Today, Vimanmek Mansion is open to the public as a museum and cultural attraction. Visitors can learn about the history of the Thai monarchy and see firsthand the grandeur of royal life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The palace is also home to a handicrafts center, where visitors can see traditional Thai crafts being made and purchase souvenirs. Vimanmek Mansion is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Thai history and culture, as well as a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture.

22. Giant Swing Bangkok

The Giant Swing is a historic landmark located in the old city area of Bangkok, Thailand. The swing is a towering red structure, standing at over 21 meters tall, that was originally built in 1784 in front of the Brahmin temple of Wat Suthat.

The Giant Swing was used in a Brahmin religious ceremony called Triyampavai-Tripavai, which involved young men swinging from the structure to try to retrieve a bag of coins with their teeth. The ceremony was discontinued in the early 20th century due to safety concerns.

Today, the Giant Swing is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Bangkok’s cultural heritage. Visitors can see the swing up close and learn about its history and significance at the nearby Giant Swing Museum. The area around the swing is also home to several other historic temples and landmarks, including Wat Suthat and the Grand Palace.

The Giant Swing is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Thai culture and history, as well as a unique photo opportunity in Bangkok’s bustling old city.

23. Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) is a contemporary arts center is one of the best attractions in Bangkok located in the Pathum Wan district. The center opened in 2008 and is one of the largest art and cultural institutions in Southeast Asia.

The BACC is a multi-disciplinary space, featuring art exhibitions, film screenings, theater performances, and live music concerts. The center showcases both Thai and international artists, and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.

The BACC has several floors of galleries and exhibition spaces, as well as a large auditorium and a library. The center also has several cafes and restaurants, as well as a rooftop garden with views of the city.

The BACC is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary art and culture in Bangkok. The center is conveniently located next to the National Stadium BTS station and is easily accessible by public transportation. Admission to the galleries and exhibitions.

24. Suan Pakkad Palace

Suan Pakkad Palace is a museum and cultural attraction located in the Phaya Thai district of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace was originally built in the mid-19th century as a private residence for a wealthy Thai family, and was later converted into a museum.

Suan Pakkad Palace consists of several traditional Thai houses and buildings, set in a beautiful garden with ponds and fountains. The buildings contain a variety of art and artifacts, including ancient pottery, traditional Thai textiles, and Buddhist art.

One of the highlights of Suan Pakkad Palace is the Ban Chiang exhibit, which features artifacts from the Ban Chiang archaeological site in northeastern Thailand. The site is famous for its ancient pottery and bronze artifacts, which date back to the Bronze Age.

Visitors to Suan Pakkad Palace can also explore the traditional Thai houses, which are decorated with antique furniture and traditional Thai artwork. The palace also has a gift shop and a cafe, serving Thai food and drinks.

Suan Pakkad Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Thai history and culture, as well as a beautiful and peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

25. Assumption Cathedral

Assumption Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, is a Catholic cathedral located in the Bang Rak district of Bangkok, Thailand. The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is one of the oldest and most historic churches in Bangkok.

Assumption Cathedral is known for its striking Gothic architecture, with stained glass windows and tall spires. The cathedral has a rich history and has played an important role in the Catholic community in Bangkok since its establishment. It is also the mother church of the Archdiocese of Bangkok.

Visitors to the cathedral can attend daily mass, which is conducted in Thai and English, and explore the interior of the cathedral. The cathedral has several altars and chapels, and is decorated with religious art and statues.

Assumption Cathedral is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in religious history and architecture in Bangkok. It is easily accessible by public transportation and is located in a bustling area of the city, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the sights of Bangkok.