Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, and you can expect almost everything in this part of the world. It is crowded, noisy, colorful, infuriating, exciting and simply mesmerizing. In this city, you will be able to find a plenty of interesting traveling spots that are mostly related to the past, like old temples, historical sites, museums, etc.
Bangkok is also known as the chief port of Thailand, serving as a gateway to several parts of the country. You can take a short flight from here to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui and several other popular destinations. Moreover, it is easier to explore natural treasures from here as well through the bus or train for merely a few bucks. For example, Lopburi and Ayutthaya.
In this post, you will be learning about the best places to explore within the Bangkok City with your family or friends. Read on till the end before planning a trip!
Top Attractions For Tourists In Bangkok
The best part about this city is that; every place of Bangkok has an interesting story to reveal. Over 100 years ago, it all began as a trading center at the bank of Chao Phraya River and today, the glory and grandeur of Bangkok is unmatchable.
From spectacular palaces to dazzling temples and globally popular floating market to lively Chinatown; it is simply hard to decide the best place for tourism within Bangkok. Fret not! We are here to help. Just go through some of our recommendations before you pack your bags for the trip.
1. The Beauty of Grand Palace
This one is surely one of the major historical attractions for the tourists in Bangkok. Built in 1782, the spectacular structures of this royal compound can win over the modern monarchs any time.
The Grand Palace was used as a royal residence for generations in the past and nowadays, it is either utilized for important ceremonies or to accommodate heads of the state. To get the most out of your visit, you can hire a local guide to cover the important features of the Palace.
| Tip
Make sure to dress moderately while visiting this place, which means covered arms and legs. This is because the dress code is strictly enforced there, and you can’t enter the Palace with see-through, tight or revealing clothes. |
2. Wat Arun
Wat Arun is something as old as the battle between Burma and the former Siam during the ancient times. Ayutthaya was reduced to ashes and rubble after Burmese victory, but the remaining survivors and General Taksin vowed to the march and constructed a temple here named as Wat Arun – the Temple of Dawn. Later, the new king built his royal palace here along with a private chapel.
Before sunset, if you happen to climb on the top of the prang, an unforgettable and mesmerizing view of the sun sinking over the River Chao Praya will keep you hooked.
3. Wat Pho
Situated in the south of Grand Palace; Wat Pho can be an excellent addition to your trip to the palace. However, it would require a lot of walking.
- King Rama I built this temple and it is one of the oldest buildings present in Bangkok.
- For a long time, the place was famous for its pharmacy centuries ago and was also known as Thailand’s first ‘university’.
- Besides, you can get a healing Thai massage on the premises of traditional medical school, but the price for the services is relatively higher than other parlors present in the city.
- Wat Pho is well-known for the Reclining Buddha Temple, where the statue is as long as 45 meters and as high as 15 meters. In short, you will not be able to view the entire statue in one sight, but can surely appreciate it in sections.
- The soles of Reclining Buddha’s feet are inlaid with beautiful, precious stones.
4. Giant Swing
Here comes another eye-catching view of Bangkok right in the center of a busy square situated opposite to Wat Suthat. The so-called Giant swing is 27 meters high, and it was built back in the 1700s as a part of traditional Hinduist (Brahm) ceremonies. Later, lightning damaged the swing, and it just became a decorative.
Every December the Giant Swing used to be the main focus of a religious festival where three members of a team would balance on the narrow board and swung over 25 meters. At that point, they would make attempts to catch a silver coin’s bag in their teeth. However, in 1932, King Rama VII banned the contest because of a huge number of fatal accidents.
5. Get Authentic Souvenirs From Chatuchak Market
Love to collect antiques and unique things? Chatuchak Market is the place for you. This semi-outdoor market features more than 15,000 stalls offering almost everything that you would need, including pet supplies, religious icons, paper lamps, jewelry, delicious street food and what not. In addition, you can also find a lot of souvenirs in a comparatively cheaper price than the rest of the Bangkok City.
Chatuchak Market is a great place to socialize with the locals and learn about their culture. The key is to arrive at the location early so you can get the most out of this amazing setup.
6. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Shop By Boat
Another market on the list, but this one is unique and special on its own. Damnoen Saduak is located in Ratchaburi, which is around 1.5 hours outside the Bangkok. In the past, its popularity also earned Bangkok the title Venice of the East.
As the name suggests, the shops of this market are floating in the water and you would have to use a boat to get there. This place is unique and a great attraction for tourists. Besides fresh and delicious food, you will also be able to interact with the locals and get to know them better. It is suggested to join a tour, like the Floating Market Cruise Day Trip, for best experience. It can take around 6 hours, but the package includes air-conditioned coach and pickup from the hotel.
7. Khao San Road
The road is famous in Bangkok for a lot of reasons. For example, it is jam-packed with food vendors, guesthouses, clothing stalls and tourists from almost every corner of the world. However, Khao San Road may test your patience because of the continuous and unavoidable scents, crowd and blaring music.
8. Lumpini Park
Amid the chaos and traffic of Bangkok, Lumpini Park is a treat for the visitors who love to hang out amidst greenery, to bloat on the lake and to enjoy under the shade of the Chinese pagoda. The location is great for spending the afternoons in the tranquil environment.
| Note
It is important to know that the park has been used for anti-government protests that turned violent occasionally in the past. Therefore, ensure to check the current political situation of Bangkok before visiting Lumpini Park. |
9. Terminal 21 Shopping Mall
Don’t get fooled by the airport-like name of this shopping mall. It is one of these best locations to visit for those who are always at the lookout of local and international brands. You might be wondering what is so special about the mall which makes it different from the rest. Here are a few highlighted features:
- Each floor of this mall displays a distinctive theme related to a different city.
- For example: a moment you are shopping in the Paris and as soon as you enter the next floor, it will be Tokyo; another step up will take you to London and so on.
- Apart from shopping, visitors can enjoy several other activities from a variety of eateries, unique Sleep pod rooms, fitness gym, cinema city and a lot more.
It is basically an all-in-one place to explore different parts of the world, shop from the variety, eat, relax, watch movies and maintain your fitness.
10. River Cruise at Chao Phraya
Also famous as the river of kings, the Chao Phraya is the heartline of Bangkok. It will allow you to discover the most stunning monuments and temples of the city from a brand-new angle.
- You can enjoy a dinner cruise in the evening while sailing along the Wat Arun, the Grand Palace and Rama VIII Bridge.
- However, you can take advantage of express boats and ferries during the day, which will leave from the Sathorn Pier and arrive at the tourist-friendly locations, such as Ratchawongse and Wat Arun.
- Khlong Saen Saep, local canal boats, are utilized by the locals, and they are great to see the true beauty of Bangkok because these boats pass through small canals and residential buildings in a zigzag.
11. China Town
The China Town of Bangkok is certainly one of the biggest Chinatowns present throughout the world. The place is diverse, colorful and exciting for tourism. Yaowarat Road is the major artery of Chinatown, with food carts, restaurants, gold stores, herb shops, cafés, fruit stalls and more.
If you are at Chinatown for eating purpose particularly, then it is suggested to wait until the sunset became that’s the time when the place is exploded with food stalls that are overflowing with tasty treats. As compare to the past, the number of swanky hotels and fine dining options have increased and that’s the most beautiful part about Bangkok.
12. Ride Skytrain
If we look at the list of the most famous things in the Bangkok, then traffic will certainly top the chart. Even to cover a short distance, it would take half an hour or more. However, the visitors can choose to travel in the easy, time-efficient and convenient option: the Skytrain.
- Also named as BTS, Bangkok’s Skytrain; the service was started in 1999 and quickly became popular because of the ease it offers.
- Besides, the cleanliness, speed, price and air-conditioning environment of the train come as a bonus.
- Unfortunately, the Skytrain doesn’t travel in every area, but it still covers two important areas of the city: Silom and Sukhumvit.
- You can either use a Rabbit Card or purchase individual tickets to reserve your seat(s). The Rabbit card, however, is a pre-paid card and you can get it recharged as often as you need.
- Moreover, the BTS stops running after midnight, so plan your visit accordingly.
13. Visit Kalayanamit
Here is another beautiful temple to visit in Bangkok. Kalayanamit is present at Wat Arun across the Chao Phraya River. In 1825, this temple was founded by a pious man and a dear friend of King Rama III.
The ordination hall is one of the most attractive structures that you can find across the river, where a massive Buddha image is placed. The historical temple is a combination of Thai and Chinese architecture, including pavilions, chedis and statues. It is an active and most-visited temple in the city with a giant Buddha statue, monks residing inside and 13 tons bell.
| Name Of Destination | Location |
| The Grand Palace | Phra Nakhon |
| Wat Arun | West bank of Chao Phraya River |
| Wat Pho | Phra Nakhon District |
| The Giant Swing | Phra Nakhon, opposite to Wat Suthat |
| Chatuchak Market | Near Kampheng Phet, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon |
| Damnoen Saduak
Floating Market |
Ratchaburi Province |
| Khao San Road | near Ratchadamnoen Avenue |
| Lumpini Park | Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon |
| Terminal 21 Shopping Mall | Thawi Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon |
| River Cruise | Parallel to Phra Arthit Road |
| China Town | Yaowarat Road |
| BTS – Bangkok’s Skytrain | Silom and Sathon Roads to National Stadium and Bang Wa |
| Kalayanamit | Wat Kanlaya sub-district |
Tips and Tricks To Make The Most Out Of Your Bangkok Tour
-
Prevent Hassle
To save yourself from any hassle, it is suggested to find yourself a taxi that will take you at the desired destination without any stopover. Another great option is to choose a guided tour to save your time and of course it comes with the benefit of learning new things about the place.
-
Bargain!
Don’t hesitate to bargain, and this rule apply for both, shopping and taxi rides. Unfortunately, the taxi drivers in Bangkok and famous for charging high, especially if they get to know that you are a tourist. Insist them to use their taxi meter and observe it carefully. Ensure that it is not running faster than normal. If you are not able to afford a taxi, then it is possible to get around Bangkok in motorcycle taxi. It will cost you less and can drive through the crowd easily.
-
Traveling Through Public Transportation
Even more inexpensive option is to use public transport as the city offers a great transportation system with underground and above-ground trains. On the other hand, buses may get stuck in the traffic during rush hours, but that is not the case with trains.
-
Protect Yourself From Scorching Sun
No sea breeze is there in the Bangkok to help you fight with the brutal heat and the streets of the city have higher humidity level as well. So, you need to take precautionary measures to tackle the situation. For example: instead of staying outdoors all the time, visit some indoor shopping malls as well to get some air-conditioned relief. Moreover, drink plenty of water and protect your skin with a sunscreen. Besides, always go for breathable or cotton clothing with a hat or umbrella covering your head.
-
Be Careful of Scams
As said earlier, taxi drivers usually overcharge or lie about their meter not working. Keep your eyes and ears open while getting around and prevent interaction with people who don’t seem trustworthy. Another big scam in Bangkok involves tour guides who commit to take you somewhere, but end up in several stopovers on the go, usually at a gem store or tailor. This is because these people get some commission for bringing the tourists to certain shops, but the places are usually overpriced and not worthy.
Bangkok – An International Destination Hot Spot
If you are planning to travel in interesting cities that have a lot to reveal about the past, then Bangkok, Thailand, is a great option to consider. From shopping to visiting historical places, and enjoying scrumptious food to collecting souvenirs; this city has a lot to offer its visitors.
We have suggested some must-visit places of Bangkok above, but the list can be as long as you can imagine. The best part is that; you get to learn a lot about the culture and history of different places. Have you seen any of these destinations yet?
