17 Things to do in Bangkok + Tourist Spots

I’ve been to Bangkok more than five times, and it’s easy to see why I keep coming back. Bangkok should be on everyone’s bucketlist in Thailand, and for good reason! In this travel guide, I’ll take you through must-visit spots for first-timers, along with some of my personal favorites—from soaking up the rich history and stunning architecture of the Old City to exploring the best shopping hubs in Central Bangkok.

For yummy local eats, head to Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown). Go on a scenic cruise/ferry ride along the Chao Phraya River. Cap off your night at Khaosan Road or Bangkok’s best rooftop bars. If that’s not enough, Bangkok also makes a great base for day trips to beautiful nearby destinations like Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Ancient City, floating markets & more.

Bangkok Tourist Spots

What to do & where to go in Bangkok? I got you! Here are places to visit, interesting attractions & things to do in Bangkok for your bucketlist/itinerary.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

See also

View more travel tips in: Bangkok, ALL Destinations.

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1. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace is a must-see for first-time visitors to Bangkok. Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand’s most sacred temple, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. This huge sprawling complex is filled with intricately decorated buildings, stunning statues, and beautiful courtyards. So, make sure to take your time to roam around.

Grand Palace

Opening Hours — 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Admission/entrance fee — THB 500 per person.

Book here

How to get to the Grand Palace —The entrance gates are just a short walk from Tha Chang Pier if you want to go by ferry. By train, the nearest station is Sanam Chai MRT (Blue Line), which is 1.3 km away. From there, you can either walk for around 15–20 minutes or take a quick ride via Grab or Bolt.

Nearest Station — Sanam Chai MRT (Blue Line).

Nearest river ferry pier — Tha Chang Pier (N9)

To make the most of your visit, head straight to these highlights:

Location — Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

2. Wat Arun

If there’s one temple I highly recommend visiting, it’s Wat Arun. With its iconic spire and scenic riverside location, it’s easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok. Love to dress up in traditional Thai costumes for an epic photoshoot? Wat Arun is the perfect spot for it. While you’re here, climb up the steep stairs for a breathtaking view overlooking Bangkok’s skyline. But honestly, my favorite view of Wat Arun is from one of the riverside bars across the river, near Tha Tien Pier. The sunset & dusk views from here are not to be missed! Visit early to avoid the crowds & harsh midday heat or late afternoon for golden hour.

Wat Arun

Opening Hours — 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Admission/entrance fee — THB 200 per person.

How to get to Wat Arun — From Tha Tien pier & ride the local ferry to Wat Arun. The ferry ride costs THB 5 per person & takes 5 minutes.

Nearest station to Tha Tien Pier — Sanam Chai MRT (Blue Line).

Traditional Thai Costume Rental

You can find a whole row of rental shops just outside Wat Arun’s roadside entrance. Once you land at the pier, walk straight up the alley and look for Unique Costumes rental. The shop can help you arrange a photographer too.

Prices:

Location — 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Bangkok Old City. Save on Google Maps.

Bangkok Travel Essentials

Before we go with the rest of the list, here are travel essentials you might need for a hassle-free trip. Click below to see discounts & read traveler reviews.

Recommended Bangkok Hotels & Accommodations

Where to stay in Bangkok

✅ Siam & Pratunam — home to Bangkok’s mega malls & best bargains. Perfect for first-timers wanting BTS Skytrain access and a central base for Grab/taxi rides to major attractions in the city.
✅ Silom / Bangrak — central base for hassle-free rides to the best of Bangkok with access to both BTS and MRT train lines, a vibrant street food scene & lively nightlife.
✅ Old Bangkok Riverside — cinematic views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun. Easy access to Old City temples, Chinatown street food, the MRT line and ferry piers.

For hassle-free trips, I almost always book with these trusted and legit booking apps (click below). To book the best deals, make sure to check multiple sites so you can compare prices and guest reviews.

Trip.comAgoda Klook Traveloka

 

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

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Tours + discountsFlights

3. Wat Pho

Home of the famous giant reclining Buddha & birthplace of traditional Thai Massage. Wat Pho is located in Bangkok’s Old City, along with Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, making it easy to visit all three in one day. Remember to wear temple-appropriate outfits. For men, it’s long pants (no shorts) and sleeved shirts (no tank tops). For women, wear clothes covering shoulders and knees. Avoid sheer fabrics. Sarong rentals are available, but it’s easier to bring your own.

Wat Pho

Opening Hours — 8 AM to 5 PM.

Admission/entrance fee — THB 300 per person.

How to get to Wat Pho — Located near Tha Tien Pier, beside the Grand Palace, but on the other side of the entrance gate. Wat Pho is a short walk away. Bring an umbrella because it gets really hot & humid in Bangkok during the day.

Nearest Station — Sanam Chai MRT (Blue Line).

Nearest river ferry pier — Tha Tien Pier (N8)

Location — 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

4. Chao Phraya River Cruise

If want to chill on a buffet cruise while enjoying Thai food, seafood, and international dishes, I highly recommend the Chao Phraya River Cruise. You can either go on the sunset cruise to soak up the riverside views under the golden hour or join the evening cruise and sail past the city’s sparkling lights, with iconic landmarks beautifully lit at night like ICONSIAM and the majestic Wat Arun.

Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

One of the most popular cruise boats in Bangkok.
You have the option to depart from Asiatique or ICONSIAM. I suggest choosing the ICONSIAM departure. This way, you’ll have time to explore this stunning mall too.

Book hereCompare rates

Price:

Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boat

If you just want to go on a cruise without the buffet, this is a cheap yet worthwhile alternative. The Chao Phraya Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) boat stops at piers near all the major tourist spots along the river, making it a convenient and scenic way to explore Bangkok’s riverside.

Book hereCompare rates

More Chao Phraya River Cruise Operators

5. ICONSIAM

Bangkok’s most beautiful and luxurious mall is not to be missed, with its stunning architecture inspired by the traditional krathong (floating lantern). Inside, you’ll find SookSiam, an indoor floating market showcasing Thai food and crafts, Thailand’s first Apple Storeand the country’s largest Starbucks Reserve. You’ll also discover a wide selection of high-end brands and must-try restaurants throughout the mall.

Don’t miss the scenic city views from the terrace, the mesmerizing dancing ceiling waterfall on the 6th floor, and the nightly fountain show—Southeast Asia’s longest watershow, stretching 400 meters along the river. Try the famous Pad Thai at the Michelin-recognized Thip Samai restaurant.

How to get to ICONSIAM — Take the BTS Silom Line to Krung Thon Buri Station, then transfer to the Gold Line and ride one stop to Charoen Nakhon Station, which connects directly to the mall. You can also take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station, then walk to Sathorn Pier and hop on the shuttle boat to ICONSIAM.

Nearest station — Charoen Nakhon Station (Gold Line)

Nearest river ferry pier — Sathorn Pier (CEN)

Location — 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok. Save on Google Maps.

6. Ancient City Day Tour

One of my favorite things to do when in Bangkok is a day trip to Ancient City (Muang Boran). It’s not actually in Bangkok—it’s about an hour away in neighboring Samut Prakan province, and it’s easily one of the best day trips, especially for first-timers. The place is packed with impressive replicas of Thailand’s most famous landmarks, almost like a mini version of the entire country. If you don’t have time to explore all of Thailand, this spot is perfect. The Ancient City is massive. In fact, it’s one of the largest outdoor museums in the world! Best to rent an e-cart or bicycle & go late afternoon or avoid the harsh midday sun.

The Ancient City

Opening Hours — 9 AM to 7 PM.

Nearest Station — Kheha Station (BTS Light-Green Sukhumvit Line).

How to get there — Take the BTS train to Kheha Station (last stop on the Green Sukhumvit Line). The fare from Siam Station in Central Bangkok is around THB 62 and the ride takes about 1 hour. From Kheha, you can book a Grab (around THB 85), Bolt, or hop on Songthaew #36 to reach Ancient City.

Ticket prices

Book this online (tap below). If you buy on the spot, the walk-in rates are almost double the price.

Ancient City highlights

If you have limited time, prioritize these sites:

Location — 296, 1 Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Pu Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan 10280, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

7. Central Bangkok Shopping & Markets

If you came to Bangkok to go shopping, then Central Bangkok is the place to be. Home to many of the city’s largest malls and best markets, this area has everything from high-end designer brands to exciting bargains. But don’t go just for the shopping, many malls here also have excellent food courts where you can enjoy affordable and delicious Thai food.

Nearest Stations — Siam Station BTS, Chit Lom BTS, Ratchathewi BTS, Ratchaprarop ARL.

How to go — From Suvarnabhumi Airport, take the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai Station or Ratchaprarop Station. From there, you can ride a taxi or get a Grab/Bolt to your destination in Central Bangkok. From Phaya Thai Station, you can also transfer to the BTS Sukhumvit Line and get off at Siam or Chitlom BTS Stations.

Best Bargains

Best malls + things to do in Central Bangkok

8. Sunset with Wat Arun View

This is my absolute favorite thing to do in Bangkok. You’ll find plenty of rooftop bars just across the river, offering stunning views during golden hour. Sunset in Bangkok usually falls between 6:30 PM and 6:50 PM, depending on the season—just Google “Bangkok sunset time” to plan ahead. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to watch the sky shift from golden tones to soft pinks, purples, and deep blue. Go even earlier if you want to snag the best balcony seats. Stay until around 7 PM to see Wat Arun beautifully illuminated with floodlights.

Best Bangkok rooftop bars with Wat Arun view

10. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is Bangkok’s iconic backpacker street—best to visit at night for cheap street food, budget Thai massages, and lively nightlife. Don’t miss classics like Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled satay. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even try fried insects like scorpions, spiders, and crickets!

How to get to Khao San Road — ride the subway to Sam Yot or Sanam Chai MRT station. Then ride a quick taxi or Grab/Bolt to Khao San Road.

Nearest station — Sam Yot MRT station, Sanam Chai MRT station.

Nearest river ferry pier — Phra Arthit Pier (N13)

11. Jim Thompson House

Houses the impressive art collection of Jim Thompson, an American expat famous for revitalizing the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. The site also features traditional Thai-style houses surrounded by cool greeneries.

Jim Thompson House Museum

Opening Hours — 10 AM to 5 PM

Price — THB 250.

How to get to Jim Thompson House — Hop on the Silom BTS Line and get off at National Stadium Station (W1). Take Exit 1 walk for around 5-minute walk down Soi Kasemsan 2.

Location — 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Where to go near Bangkok

 

Best day tours you can do from Bangkok.

12. Erawan Museum Day Tour

One of the most beautiful museums in Thailand, the Erawan Museum is famous for its giant three-headed elephant statue, stunning sculptures, and a gorgeous glass mosaic ceiling.

The Ancient City is just a 15 to 20-minute ride away, so it’s best to visit both spots together. You’ll get a better deal too with combo tickets that bundles admission to both.

Erawan Museum

Opening Hours — 9 AM to 6 PM.

Nearest Station — Erawan Station (BTS Light-Green Sukhumvit Line).

How to get there — Take the BTS train to Erawan Station. From there, it’s a short walk around the block to the entrance/ticket gate of Erawan Museum. From Ancient City, you can ride the scheduled shuttle to Erawan Museum or go by Grab/Bolt.

Ticket prices

Book this online (tap below). If you buy on the spot, the walk-in rates are almost double the price.

Location — Tambon Bang Muang Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan 10270, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

13. Ayutthaya Day Tour

Love exploring ancient cities and UNESCO sites? Ayutthaya is just an hour from Bangkok. It was once the second capital of Siam after Sukhothai. During its peak, it was among the world’s largest cities, with around a million people. Today, it’s known for its stunning temple ruins and the famous Buddha head wrapped in Bodhi tree roots. If you are traveling in a group, you can opt to rent a car with driver.

Ayutthaya Tours

Top Places to Visit in Ayutthaya

Location — Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Ayutthaya Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

14. Pattaya Day Tour

This beach town is home to one of Thailand’s most stunning landmarks, the Sanctuary of Truth—a must-see that makes the three-hour trip from Bangkok worth it. While you’re in Pattaya, don’t miss other spots like Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, Khao Chi Chan, and Jomtien Beach. A day trip from Bangkok will take up your whole day, but you can also stay a night or two if you want a more relaxed visit.

Where to go in Pattaya

Pattaya Tours & Transport

Location — Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Pattaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay

15. Floating Market & Railway Market Day Tour

This easy trip from Bangkok takes you to Thailand’s most famous floating markets, including Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa. Hop on a boat to explore the canals, where you’ll see vendors selling everything from colorful fruits to local craft, village homes on stilts, maybe even monitor lizards. Don’t miss the coconut ice cream while you’re there. After that, swing by the train market to watch vendors pull back their stalls just as the train passes through.

Prices

Location — Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Bangkok Floating Markets Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

16. Bangkok Old City

There’s more to see here in addition to the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. Bangkok’s Old City, also known as Rattanakosin Island, is the historic heart of the city. Surrounded by canals and the Chao Phraya River, it’s where Bangkok first began, packed with old temples, royal landmarks, and museums that offer a glimpse into Thailand’s past.

Interesting spots to visit near Grand Palace, Wat Arun & Wat Pho

17. Hua Lamphong Railway Station

Bangkok’s iconic main train terminal is a nice photo spot if you’re after that vintage local vibe. You’ll find old trains, classic architecture, and a glimpse of the city’s railway history.

Thai Railway Museum

Opening Hours

Price — FREE

Nearest station — Hua Lamphong MRT Station

How to get to Hua Lamphong Railway Station — The easiest way to reach Hua Lamphong Railway Station by train is to take the MRT Blue Line and get off at Hua Lamphong Station. The MRT connects directly to the railway station through an underground walkway.

Location — Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Other Interesting Spots

Beyond Bangkok

 

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is home to Angkor Wat, one of the world’s grandest temples and most iconic ancient sites. It’s a must-visit stop on the popular Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam backpacking trail. It’s easily reached from Bangkok by a 1-hour flight. Land border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are currently closed, but the overland journey typically takes 8 to 10 hours when available.

Location — Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. Save on Google Maps.

Siem Reap Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Vibrant capital city & the southern gateway to Vietnam. After the 8 to 10-hour land trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap, the overland journey from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City by bus takes around 12 to 16 hours. If you’re short on time, flights from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City take just over 1 hour.

Location — Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Save on Google Maps.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is probably my favorite destination in Thailand. Known as the City of Temples, it’s filled with hundreds of beautiful temples, along with delicious northern Thai dishes, night markets, and aesthetic cafes. It’s also the gateway to northern spots like Chiang Rai. Best of all, it’s one of the most affordable places to visit in Southeast Asia. You can get there easily from Bangkok by a short 1- to 1.5-hour flight. Or, go by sleeper bus (9-12 hours) or train (12-13 hours).

Location — Northern Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Chiang Mai Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Krabi & Phi Phi Islands

Go south and visit Thailand’s world-famous beaches. Krabi boasts some of the country’s most spectacular island landscapes, with picture-perfect beaches framed by towering limestone cliffs. From Bangkok, it’s about a 1.5-hour flight or a 10 to 12-hour land journey.

Location — Krabi, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Krabi Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s most popular beach destination, renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, pristine islands and lively nightlife. From Bangkok, it’s a quick 1 hour 20 minutes by plane, or around 12 to 14 hours by bus.

Location — Phuket, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Phuket Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Hua Hin

Less popular, but also a lot less crowded and more family-friendly than Pattaya, this beach town is an easy getaway since it’s only a 2-3 hour land journey from Bangkok.

Location — Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Hua Hin Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Ko Samui, Ko Phangan & Ko Tao

Head to Thailand’s east coast for stunning beaches, laid-back island vibes, and legendary Full Moon beach parties. From Bangkok, you can fly to Ko Samui in about 1 hour, or take a combo of bus or train plus ferry (roughly 10 to 15 hours) to reach Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, or Ko Tao.

Location — Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand. Save on Google Maps.

Ko Tao Travel Essentials

Where to stayTours + discounts

Don’t Stop Here

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