32 Best Things to Do in Bangkok in 2024

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‘Same Same but Different’ Guide to Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand.

Read about a perfect Bangkok bucket list: where to go in Bangkok, what to do in Bangkok, what to see in Bangkok, where to stay in Bangkok, best places to visit in Bangkok, top tourist attractions in Bangkok, best Bangkok sightseeing, top Bangkok activities, Bangkok must-sees, Bangkok must-does, and much more!

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Bangkok has been among the two most visited cities in the world for the past several years.

26 million people visited Bangkok in 2019. And, 23 million people visited Bangkok only in 2018. Bangkok is not only the capital of Thailand but the top destination in Thailand too.

Some people love it, some people hate it.
I adore it. I’ve been to Bangkok several times and I am always looking forward to going back to Bangkok. I am in love with Bangkok since the first day I set my feet on the ground of Bangkok.

Bangkok city is the crown of all cities in Thailand. Bangkok is a multi-layered cosmopolitan and multicultural city. Bangkok is home to more than 10 million people and a city that welcomes about 26 million tourists a year. To travel but not visit Bangkok means missing out on a lot!

Unfortunately, a certain number of people in Western countries have prejudices about Bangkok and Thailand. There is a stereotype about Bangkok being famous for a certain type of hedonism. Sadly, people who don’t travel are inclined to stereotypes and prejudices. Therefore, I urge everyone to travel, visit Bangkok, and visit Thailand. I hope my guide to the best things to do in Bangkok will make them book their first flight to Bangkok and tear down their prejudices.

This Bangkok travel guide covers a wide range of the best things to do in Bangkok: from visiting top Bangkok attractions (the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Khao San Road, Bangkok floating markets…), sampling delicious Thai food in Bangkok (taking Thai cooking classes in Bangkok, touring Bangkok food markets …), getting sacred Sank Yats tattoo like Angelina Jolie (one of the most wanted and most famous travel tattoos ever), the best day trips from Bangkok (visiting Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi and the Bridge on the River Kwai..) and more.

Are you planning a trip to Bangkok last minute?
If you are traveling to Bangkok last minute, I prepared for you a short summary of the best tours in Bangkok, the best hotels in Bangkok, and more!

BEST EXPERIENCES AND TOURS IN BANGKOK:
Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour (the most popular tour in Bangkok)
Bangkok: River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess ( a top-seller tour in Bangkok)
Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market (the most popular day trip from Bangkok)
From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch ( a top day trip from Bangkok)

BEST HOTELS IN BANGKOK:
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – SHA Extra Plus (luxury)
The Park Nine Hotel Srinakarin (mid-range)
Tim Mansion (budget)

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BANGKOK: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK

BUT FIRST OF ALL, WHAT IS BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand. The city of Bangkok is the main cultural, commercial, political, social, and educational center of Thailand. 

Bangkok is a cosmopolitan city with a population of over 10 million people. For comparison, Bangkok has a larger population than New York or London. 

Bangkok is the second most visited city in the world and a top tourist destination. In 2019 Bangkok visited almost 26 million people. Bangkok was the second most-visited city in the world (following only Hong Kong by the number of visitors it receives) in 2019. 

Bangkok is one of the most captivating cities in the world, known for its impressive cultural and historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, buzzing street life, outstanding street food, diverse culinary scene, renowned shopping, world-class hotels, floating Thai markets, affordable Thai massage, and friendly locals.

For these reasons, the city of Bangkok is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. 

THE OFFICIAL NAME OF BANGKOK IN THAI 

Bangkok is the city with the longest city name in the world. As such, Bangkok is in the Guinness Book of Records. The full name of Bangkok has 69 characters.

The official name of Bangkok in Thai is

Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasit

meaning 

City of angels, the great city of immortals, the magnificent city of the nine gems, the seat of the king, the city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Vishvakarman at Indra’s behest.

Locals call Bangkok Krung Thep, which means the City of Angels. 

WHERE IS BANGKOK 

The city of Bangkok is in southern Thailand.

Bangkok is on the canals of the delta of the Chao Phraya River near the Gulf of Thailand. The city sits on around 1700 canals. Therefore, Bangkok is nicknamed ‘Venice of the East’.

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK

Two international airports serve Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DM).

They have flights that connect Bangkok with many destinations around the globe: from Asia and Australia to Africa, the Middle East, Europe, North America, and South America.

Bus lines connect Bangkok with many domestic destinations. But also with some neighboring countries. 
Northern & Northeastern Bus Terminal in Bangkok has bus lines to Pakse (Laos), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Siem Reap (Cambodia), and Vientiane (Laos).
Eastern Bus Terminal has bus lines to eastern Thailand, and Southern Bus Terminal has bus lines to southern Thailand. 

Hualamphong Train Station, the central train station in Bangkok, has train lines to domestic destinations (like Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Ayutthaya, and Nong Khai), and some international destinations (like Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia). The most popular train routes from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Train Station go to Chiang Mai and Surat Thani. 

Hualamphong Train Station is in Chinatown in Bangkok. 

BANGKOK AIRPORTS

Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DM). 

Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is the main airport that receives most of the international traffic in Bangkok but also has domestic flights. It is one of the busiest airports in Asia. 

British Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Delta Air Lines, Etihad Airways, Air China, Japan, Bangkok Airways, Lufthansa, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines are some of the numerous airlines that fly to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

Don Mueang International Airport (DM) mainly connects Bangkok to Thai regions and other Southeast Asian countries. Low-cost carriers fly to Don Mueang International Airport. 

Air Asia, Thai Lion Air, and Nok Air are some of the about 15 airline companies that fly to Don Mueang International Airport (DM).

WHAT IS THE POPULATION OF BANGKOK 

8,3 million people lived in Bangkok in 2019, according to the census data. It is estimated to have 10,7 million people in 2022.

WHAT IS BANGKOK FAMOUS FOR 

Bangkok is a famous tourist destination. 

Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world. It received about 26 million visitors in 2019. 

Bangkok is famous for impressive cultural and historical landmarks, world-class hotels, vibrant nightlife, buzzing street life, outstanding street food, diverse culinary scene, renowned shopping, floating Thai markets, affordable Thai massage, and friendly locals.

IS BANGKOK WORTH VISITING

Bangkok is one of the most interesting cosmopolitan cities in the world. 

Bangkok is a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts, history buffs, shoppingholics, gourmands, and luxury and budget travelers. 

Bangkok has something for everyone’s taste and pocket. Bangkok is a must-see destination in a lifetime. 

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN BANGKOK 

To visit Bangkok, you need a minimum of four to five days.
Remember, Bangkok is one of the largest and most exciting cities. In four days in Bangkok, you can visit all the main Bangkok attractions. Bangkok is a vibrant and multicultural city that lives 24 hours a day and has everything for everyone. 
Read my recommended 4 days in Bangkok itinerary.

If you are interested in how to visit top destinations in Thailand in only 10 days, I suggest checking out my 10 days in Thailand itinerary.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK 

The main districts of Bangkok are Rattanakosin Island (Bangkok Old City), Khaosan Road area, Riverside, Chinatown, Sukhumvit, Siam, Pratunam, Silom, and Chatuchak. 

Rattanakosin Island is the historic center of Bangkok. The Grand Palace complex with the Temple of Emerald Buddha, and Wat Pho Temple with the Reclining Buddha are on Rattanakosin island. If you want to stay in the historic center of Bangkok and near all the main tourist attractions in Bangkok, you need to stay on Rattanakosin Island. Check out stays in Rattanakosin island in Bangkok!

Khaosan Road is a famous backpacker’s district in Bangkok. Khaosan Road is within walking distance of Rattanakosin Island. If you are traveling on a budget and you want to be close to the main tourist attractions in Bangkok, you would love to stay in Khaosan Raod. Check out stays in Khaosan Road in Bangkok!

Riverside is the most beautiful district of Bangkok. The district is along the Chao Praya River and has beautiful 4-star hotels and stunning 5-star hotels. If you are a luxury traveler or want a memorable stay in Bangko, you would enjoy the Riverside district in Bangkok. Check out stays in the Riverside area in Bangkok!

Sukhumvit is a western-style district in Bangkok, The district has luxury hotels, clubs, international restaurants, go-go bars, sexy shows, and red-light areas. If you are after clubbing and nightlife in Bangkok, you would like to stay in Sukhumvit. Check out stays in Sukhumvit in Bangkok!

Siam is a famous shopping district in Bangkok. The district has among the best shopping malls, bars, and cafes in Asia. If you love to shop on your travels, you would enjoy staying in the Siam district in Bangkok! Check out stays in Siam in Bangkok!

Silom is a famous business district in Bangkok, The district has offices of national and international companies and banks. If you are o a business trip to Bangkok, you would love to stay in Silom. Check out stays in Silom in Bangkok!

BEST TIME TO VISIT BANGKOK 

Bangkok has a tropical climate with three seasons (cool/dry, hot, and wet).
Bangkok is one of the hottest cities in the world. The air temperatures in Bangkok are over 30°C (86°F) year-round.

The best time to travel to Bangkok is from November to February.

The best months to go to Bangkok are November and December as the rainy season has just finished and the temperatures are moderate.

The cool and dry season in Bangkok goes from November to February. The daytime temperatures go around 32°C (89.6°F) in Bangkok in the dry season.

The hot season in Bangkok goes from April to May. The air temperatures go around 35°C (95°F) and often reach 40 °C (100°F).

The wet season in Bangkok goes from May to October. Massive downpours with flooding happen in the mornings, followed by pleasant showers in the afternoons. 

The worst time to travel to Bangkok is in September and October. Extreme rainfall occurs in the months of September and October.

The rainiest months in Bangkok are September and October. In November and December, the weather in Bangkok gets cooler and drier.

Actually, the high season in Bangkok goes from November to March. Bangkok is extremely busy during Christmas, New Year, and Songkran (the Thai New Year festival that comes in April).

THE ULTIMATE BANGKOK BUCKET LIST: BEST THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK, THAILAND

My Bangkok bucket list of top things to do in Bangkok starts with the main Bangkok points of interest and the best places to visit in Bangkok, continues with the best activities in Bangkok and unique things to do in Bangkok, and ends with some fun things to do Bangkok and interesting day trips from Bangkok.

Bangkok things to do to experience the best of Bangkok:

1. VISIT THE GRAND PALACE

The spectacular royal Grand Palace in the heart of Old Bangkok is the official seat of the Kingdom of Thailand, and the former Kingdom of Siam.

The royal complex represents the heart of Bangkok and Thailand. The Grand Palace complex covers several buildings, halls ad gardens in an area of about 22 ha at the heart of Rattanakosin Island (the historic area of Old Bangkok).

Today Bangkok Grand Palace is used only for official events and ceremonies while royals reside in the Dusit Palace in Bangkok. But, the Grand Palace complex remains a top tourist attraction in Bangkok.

Bangkok Grand Palace entrance fee: 500 baht (15 USD)

Grand Palace, Bangkok – opening hours: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm every day

2. SEE THE EMERALD BUDDHA 

Royal Wat Phra Kaew temple with the Emerald Buddha statue is the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace complex.

A tiny 26 inches (76 cm) Buddha statue made of jasper serves as the protector of the Kingdom of Thailand, the Thai king, and the Thai people. 

Only the King of Thailand is allowed to approach the Emerald Buddha who symbolically changes the robes of the Emerald Buddha 3 times a year (at the beginning of the seasons: winter, summer, and rainy).

The Emerald Buddha statue dates back to the 15th century, while the royal temple was built in 1782 and when Bangkok as the capital of the kingdom was established.

Just to remind you, please dress respectfully when entering Wat Phra Kaew and other Buddhist temples covering your knees and shoulders. And keep in mind that you need to take off your shoes before entering Wat Phra Kaeo and all Buddhist temples.

Taking photos inside Wat Phra Kaew is not allowed.

Wat Phra Kaeo and the Emerald Buddha is a part of the Grand Palace complex. Info about the opening times and tickets are above mentioned.

3. VISIT THE RECLINING BUDDHA IN WAT PHO

Just 10 min walk away (1 km) from the Grand Palace you can see 46 m long gold Reclining Buddha in Wat Pho. 

The temple of Reclining Buddha or Wat Pho is the oldest and the largest temple complex in Bangkok. Thus, it should be on any Bangkok bucket list.

Wat Pho temple and the Reclining Buddha are some of the best things to see in Bangkok.

Wat Pho entrance fee: 200 baht (6 USD)

Wat Pho opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm

4. HAVE A TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE IN THE WAT PHO COMPLEX

Traditional Thai massage is a more than 2,000-year-old unique body therapy and healing art that uses body pulling and stretching and acupressure as techniques for healing and maintaining health.

For this, massage therapists use their thumbs, elbows, and knees and might even walk on the person who receives a massage.

Relaxing with authentic Thai massage is one of the best things to do in Bangkok and one of the top things to do in Thailand.

The aforementioned Wat Pho is not only a Buddhist temple but also the first public university in Thailand with schools for medicine, literature, science, and religion. The national headquarters for traditional Thai medicine, including traditional Thai massage is within the Wat Pho complex.

Thai massage is available at numerous places in Thailand. But the best place in Bangkok to get it is at Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School.

Keep in mind, you might wait in a long queue for your traditional massage in the Wat Pho complex. Thus, behave smart and book the massage in advance at Wat Pho Massage School in Bangkok. Thai massage is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Wat Pho Massage School Service Center opening hours: 8 am – 6 pm

Price of Thai massage at Wat Pho Massage School Service Center: 320 baht/30 min (10 USD), 480 baht/1 hour (16 USD), foot massage 220 baht (7 USD)

5. VISIT WAT ARUN

Bangkok’s top attractions are definitely Bangkok temples.

The best temples in Bangkok are Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. But the most beautiful temple in Bangkok is probably Wat Arun.

Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The temple was named after the Hindu god Arun. The central tower (prang) is made of the finest colorful and intricate Chinese porcelain. Quite often you can see Wat Arun and the Chao Praya River in the photos of Bangkok. For its beauty Temple of the Dawn in Bangkok is a famous Thailand landmark. 

During the Buddhist festival of Kathina which marks the end of the 3 month-long rainy season, the Thai king goes to the Royal Kathina Ceremony from Bangkok Grand Palace to Wat Arun to give new robes to the monks as a blessing for the new season.

Taking this Flexi Walking Temple tour you can visit the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun in a 4-hour span.

Wat Arun hours: 8 am – 6 pm every day

Wat Arun entrance fee: 50 Baht

6. STROLL KHAO SAN ROAD

Khaosan Road in Bangkok is probably the most famous backpackers’ street and backpackers’ ghetto in the world.

But please don’t be misled by this, as on Khao San Road you can meet people from all walks of life, not only backpackers! Khao Sao Road is Bangkok’s attraction that shines at night when all bars open and music starts. Life in Bangkok at night is exciting and vibrant. Khao San Road is one of the hotspots of Bangkok nightlife.

It is not surprising that visiting Khao San Road is always featured among the top 10 things to do in Bangkok. According to some statistics and depending on the season (the high season or the low season), between 20,000 and 40,000-50,000 tourists a day visit Khao San Road.

Khao San Road is a must-see in Bangkok.

7. ENJOY PAD THAI 

Phad Thai is one of the most well-known traditional Thai dishes.

It is made of rice noodles with eggs and tofu, vegetables (like raw banana flowers, garlic chives, beans, sprouts), shrimp or crabs, or chicken, and all flavored with tamarind. Chili peppers, palm sugar, lime, and roasted peanuts are usually added making it even more flavourful.

8. CHECK OUT FOOD IN CHINATOWN

Frenetic Chinatown is Bangkok’s attraction where all foodies gather when the sun goes down and the street food scene gets alive.

The smells, sounds, and sights of Chinatown can be very intense, though. Thus, one of the best things you can do in Bangkok as a foodie or a curious traveler who enjoys cultural immersion is to head to Bangkok’s Chinatown after sunset for a sensory adventure.

Some of the best places to eat in Bangkok worth mentioning are in Chinatown like Khao Gaeng Jake Puey stalls for the best curry in Bangkok, Si Morakot old Chinese shop favorite by locals, Chongki restaurant for the best pork satay skewers with peanut sauce, Kung Pao Patutong for giant river prawns, Guay Deow Kua Gai Suanmali for first-rate noodle dishes, Lek & Rut for seafood, and T&K again for first-class seafood.

Checking out street food stalls and restaurants in Chinatown is a must-do in Bangkok. Taking a 3.5 hour night food tour in Bangkok Chinatown you can explore and sample the street food.

Bangkok’s Chinatown located on Yaowarat Road in Bangkok is arguably the largest Chinatown in the World. Taking a night food tour in Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of the best things to do in Bangkok.

9. VISIT THE FLOWER MARKET

Get your authentic Thai floral experience at Pak Khlong Talat market.

Visit Pak Khlong Talat, the largest fresh flower market in Bangkok. It is both, a wholesale and retail market. Besides the fresh flowers market, vegetables and fruits are sold as well.

Although Bangkok Flower Market is open 24 hours, the peak hours are between midnight and before dawn. Yes, Bangkok likes to live at night! A lot!

Visiting unique Bangkok’s Flower Market after midnight is one of the best things to do in Bangkok!

Pak Khlong Talat is located on Chak Phet Road, easily accessible from the Memorial Bridge or Saphan Phut Chao Phraya pier.

10. EXPLORE CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

The Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest market in Thailand and arguably the largest market in the World.

This shopping mecca is a bargaining paradise that covers an area of 35 acres. One full day is not enough to visit more than 15,000 market shops and stalls. Some statistics show that more than 200.000 visitors visit the market every weekend. You can find almost anything in the Chatuchak Weekend Market: clothing, crafts, souvenirs, antiques, arts, books, foods, pets, and more. Plus, you can get it for the cheapest price in Bangkok.

If you would like to explore Chatuchak Weekend Market and Bangkok with a local guide on your own Bangkok itinerary, I would recommend taking Bangkok Private Guided & Self- Tailored Tour.

Chatuchak market opening hours: Sat-Sun 9 am – 6 pm, Mon-Tues closed, Wed-Thurs 7 am – 6 pm (plants and flowers only), Fri 6 pm – 12 am (night market only; wholesale day)

11. TRY THAI COCONUT ICE CREAM 

Probably you have already heard people raving about Thai coconut ice cream.

Thai coconut ice cream is made of coconut milk (not cow’s milk like Western ice cream) and it is usually topped with toasted peanuts, cubes of sweet jelly, and kernels of corn. Thai coconut ice cream is typically served in a coconut shell and is commonly sold on street stalls in Bangkok. Just to mention, you can find stalls with ice cream in the aforementioned Chatuchak market.

Refresh yourself in Thai heat with traditional Thai Coconut ice cream.

12. HAVE THAI MANGO STICKY RICE

Khao Niaow Muang or Mango Stick Rice is a classic Thai dessert.

Sticky rice with mango is one of the most popular street foods in Bangkok and in Thailand in general. Sticky rice with slices of fresh mango with yummy coconut cream syrup will make you want to stay in Bangkok and Thailand forever. 

13. VISIT JIM THOMPSON HOUSE

Jim Thompon House is one of the extraordinary places to see in Bangkok.

Jim Thompson was an American businessman, silk trader, and art collector who founded Thai Silk Company Ltd in 1948. Much about him is unknown, but the biggest enigma is his mysterious disappearance in 1967. About his past is little known. He was an officer of the OSS (what later became the CIA) in Thailand during World War II. In 1947 he started a silk trading business selling the finest Thai silk to the fashion industry in New York. He became a very influential businessman known as the ‘Thai Silk King’ who was famous somewhat like F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Gatsby for his high society parties at his home in Bangkok.

Today his home is a museum in Bangkok featuring 6 traditional Thai teak houses with a stunning number of exquisite traditional Thai paintings, the finest Chinese porcelain, and Burmese, Lao, and Cambodian artwork that he collected on his business travels.

Jim Thompson House is in Pathum Wan District in Bangkok. A boat stop is just next to the house. You can take a canal boat for a few dollars and visit the house. 

Taking Jim Thompson House and Baan Krua Community Tour you will visit Jim Thompson House and the silk weaving community.

Jim Thompson House opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm

Jim Thompson House entrance fee: 200 baht

14. TAKE A WATER TAXI ON THE CHAO PRAYA RIVER

Chao Praya River is the major river in Thailand and it runs through the heart of Bangkok.

Bangkok lies on the Chao Praya River and on the net of canals. That’s why Bangkok is called ‘the Venice of the East’. 

While western cities have trams, Bangkok has boats. Ferriers, express boats, river taxis, and traditional Thai longtail boats go up and down the Chao Phraya River.

The best way to see all major Bangkok attractions is to take a ferry, boat, or river taxi. If you want to have a ride with locals, take a ferry or a long-tail boat. But if you want a more tourist experience in Bangkok, opt for taxi boats or Chao Praya river dinner cruise. 

Hop-On Hop-Off Chao Phraya River Boat Pass helps you to easily see famous Bangkok landmarks.

15. HAVE A TUK-TUK RIDE 

Tuk-tuk is a three-wheeled auto rickshaw commonly used for urban transportation in Bangkok.

But tuk-tuk is more than that. Tuk-tuk is a symbol of Bangkok. 

On average tuk-tuk ride is more expensive than a metered taxi and you have to negotiate the price.

For example, the same distance taxi ride costs 50-70 Baht (2 USD), and a tuk-tuk ride 150 Baht (5 USD). Tuk-tuk drivers usually stay in raw waiting for the customers, and I would recommend going from one driver to another asking the price to get the best price. Remember, the price is always inflated and you need to get it down. And don’t forget to set the price before the ride!   

Having a crazy tuk-tuk ride is one of the fun things to do in Bangkok.

16. ENJOY THE VIEWS FROM ROOFTOP BARS IN BANGKOK

Rooftop bars are the must-places to visit in Bangkok at night!

After a day of sightseeing in Bangkok head to one of Bangkok’s rooftop bars for a refreshing cocktail with spectacular views of Bangkok in the late afternoon or evening.

Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar on the 77th floor is the highest restaurant and bar in Thailand. A peaceful dinner with amazing views in Vertigo and Moon Bar on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel is another great option to spend an evening in Bangkok. Zoom Sky Bar on the 40th floor of the Anantara Sathorn Hotel offers stunning 360 degrees views. Sky Bar by Lebua comes up with amazing views from the 63rd floor and is a must-see place in Bangkok for fans of The Hangover movies. Blue Sky on the 24th floor of the Grand Lad Prao Hotel offers serene views of the city lights of Bangkok downtown.

Rooftop bars in Bangkok are exciting places to go in Bangkok for the amazing views. Touring rooftop bars is among the must-do things in Bangkok!

17. WATCH MAGNIFICIENT LADYBOY SHOW

Calypso Cabaret at Asiatique The Riverfront is a glamorous Broadway-style cabaret with first-class performers.

If you are after unique and top-quality entertainment in Bangkok, I suggest heading to Calypso Cabaret in Bangkok. I enjoyed every second of watching the show. After the show, you can take photos with the performers behind the stage. Photos of you and ladyboys performers could be a great souvenir from Bangkok. 

The show can be busy, so keep in mind that you might need to book your Calypso Cabaret Show ticket in advance.  

The Calypso Cabaret is a Bangkok must-see!

18. HEAD TO DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET

There are 5 floating markets in Bangkok: Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market, Amphawa Floating Market, Damnoen Saduak Market, and Taling Chan Floating Market.

Damnoen Saduak Market is the most popular floating market in Bangkok. Vendors in traditional clothing and traditional wide-brimmed straw hats sell vegetables, fruits, and meals from small wooden boats while drifting in the market’s canals (‘khlongs‘). Today Damnoen Saduak Market is a big tourist attraction, so beware of tourist prices. The market became especially famous for the filming scenes of James Bond’s The Man with the Golden Gun and Bangkok Dangerous. 

Damnoen Saduak Market is 62 mi (100 km) southwest of Downtown Bangkok and the easiest way to reach the market is by taking a Damnoen Saduak Market tour.

Damnoen Saduak Market opening hours: 7 am – 5 pm

19. VISIT THE TRAIN MARKET

Maeklon Railway Market is a unique Thai market as the train runs down the tracks that go straight down in the middle of the market several times a day.

The train goes from the Ban Laem Station in Bangkok to the Maeklong Station 4 times a day and back. A bell goes over public speakers announcing the coming of the train and vendors start pulling off their products from the tracks. Once the train passes, they take their products back to the original place.

The Maeklong Train Market is about 50 mi (80 km) away from Bangkok and the easiest way to reach it is by taking a tour. The best is to visit the Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklon Railway Market in one day by taking Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Train Market Tour.

Maeklon Railway Market time: open every day and the train arrives at: 8:30 am, 11:10 am, 2:30 pm, 5.40 pm

20. GET A SANK YATS HOLY TATOO

Get a holy tattoo and a blessing from a Buddhist monk at Wat Bang Phra temple.

The sacred Yantra tattoo is made of lines of script, geometric patterns, or animal shapes at the top of the back by Buddhist master monks. Sank Yats tattooing is believed to bring mystical powers, good luck, or protection from evil. Originally Buddhist monks used to make Sank Yats tattoos to warriors for their protection and good luck, but over 2.000 years of the practice, Sank Yats tattooing has widely spread among common Buddhist people. Personally, I have never been fond of tattooing. But indisputably I deeply respect the customs and beliefs of the cultures and countries I visit. If you are a Buddhist or you want a holy tattoo with a blessing of a Buddhist monk, probably you would like to get Sank Yats tattoo too. And the best place to get it is at Wat Bang Phra temple. 

Wat Bang Phra is a Buddhist temple and a center of Sank Yats tattooing located 50 km west of Bangkok. The easiest way to reach the temple from Bangkok and get your holy tattoo is by taking Holy Tattoo experience at Wat Bang Phra tour.

21. RELAX IN LUMPHINI PARK

Bangkok is a city of 10 million people. If you want to relax a bit from the crowds and among greenery, head to 57 ha Lumpini park.

The park is the largest park in Bangkok and it was the first park in Bangkok.

Lumphini Park is a peaceful oasis in chaotic Bangkok where people come to relax and do some workouts. But the park is not only about trees, flowers, animals, and lakes. In fact, the park complex features Bangkok’s first public library, the Home of Hope center for homeless children, the Smiling Sun Ground center for disabled people, the Bangkok Elder Citizens Club for socializing and some activities for older people, and more. In an extraordinary city like Bangkok, you can’t expect anything less than an extraordinary park! 

Lumpini Park is one of the most beautiful places in Bangkok.

22. CELEBRATE THAI NEW YEAR – SONGKRAN

Traditional Thai New Year is called Songkran and it happens on April 13 according to the Buddhist calendar. Official New Year in Thailand takes place on January 1 though.

But the Songkran Festival traditionally lasts for 3 days from April 13 to April 15 and it is celebrated by water throwing. Therefore, the Thai Songkran Festival is also called the Thai Water Festival.

Water throwing symbolizes washing off bad luck and sins. During Songkran, observant Buddhists pour water on Buddha images and on the hands of Buddhist monks in Buddhist temples to show their respect.

The most famous Bangkok Songkran Splendours Festival takes place from April 13-15 and it starts with the opening ceremony at Wat Pho.

If you want to experience a unique event in Bangkok, set April 13-15 in your calendar and head to Bangkok for Bangkok Songkran Splendours Festival.

23. WITNESS THAI LOI KRATHONG FESTIVAL

The Thai floating baskets festival called Loi Krathong is celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (which is November in the Western calendar). ‘

‘Loi Krathong‘ in the Thai language means ‘to float a basket‘.

Thai people traditionally float small baskets made of leaves and filled with flowers, three incense sticks, a candle, and a coin honoring the water spirits and the Water Goddess on Loy Krathong.

Releasing the floating baskets Thai people symbolically let go of negative ‘poisonous thoughts’ (anger, hate, fear, jealousy, and similar negative emotions). 

Loy Krathong 2020 in Thailand takes place on November 1, 2020.

If you want to witness one of the most beautiful celebrations in Thailand, take a trip to Bangkok for the Loi Krathong Festival.

24. GIVE IT A TRY TO DURIAN

Durian smells bad. So bad that’s forbidden to take it into the hotels, taxis, buses, trains… But if you can over the smell, then you will taste one of the most delicious exotic fruits ever. Durian is a delicacy in Southeast Asia and is called ‘King of the Fruits’. You can find Durian on street stalls in Bangkok. Block your nose and take a bite. It is so rotten but so tasty! 

25. TAKE A BITE OF A FRIED INSECT?

Hm, what about eating some fried insects in Bangkok?!

Some fried insects like tarantulas, spiders, cockroaches, and scorpions are traditional snacks in Southeast Asia. You can even find small snack packages of fried bugs in some 7-Eleven stores in Thailand. But when in Bangkok, you can find fried insects on a few street stalls in Khao San Road. If you are an adventurous eater who would like to challenge your mental barriers related to food, you should opt for fried insects on street stalls in Khao San Road in Bangkok. Let me just say, they are crispy for sure.  

Trying a fried insect is one of the most unusual things to do in Bangkok. And some would argue, one of the weird things to do in Bangkok.

26. HAVE AN AUTHENTIC THAI COOKING CLASS

One of the best things to do on travel is to learn about cultures and their traditional cuisines.

Thai cuisine is world-famous for its sweet and savory tastes. Thus, take an authentic Thai cooking class in Bangkok and learn to prepare some of the traditional Thai dishes.

If you are a foodie, one of the best souvenirs you can take with you home from Bangkok is an authentic recipe for popular Thai dishes. Take a Thai cooking class and learn how to prepare famous Thai green papaya salad, delicious Tom Kha Gai (Thai chicken in coconut soup), perfect Pad Kra Pao (Thai holy basil chicken stir-fry), spicy Tom Yum Goong (Thai spicy shrimp soup), or iconic Pad Thai (Thai Style Fried Noodle).

27. TAKE A FOOD TOUR IN BANGKOK BY TUK-TUK

If you are a foodie but you doubt your culinary skills, then this Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk instead of a cooking class might suit you better.

You might not get Thai food recipes, but you will treat your palate with some exceptionally yummy typical Thai dishes in Bangkok. 

28. SAMPLE THAI BEER 

If you like to taste local foods and local drinks on your travels, then you should try some Thai beers.

The most popular beers in Thailand are Singha (lion) and Chang (elephant). Singha is a 5% abv pale lager beer and Chang is a 4.2% abv pale lager beer. I would argue and say they are ‘same, same but different’. 

29. TAKE A DAY TRIP TO AYUTTHAYA

Ancient Ayutthaya was the second royal capital of Kingdom Siam, after Sukothai and before Thonburi and Bangkok.

Today Ayutthaya Historical Parc is a UNESCO World Heritage site of spectacular Buddhist temples that every culturally thirsty and history-admiring traveler should see. Ayutthaya is an island on three rivers and by taking this Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok you can treat yourself to a great visit to Ayutthaya temples and a stunning river cruise on your way back to Bangkok.

Ayutthaya is about one hour drive from Bangkok.
Read more: Best Ayutthaya Temples

30. GO FOR A DAY TRIP TO KANCHANABURI & BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI

Sadly Kanchanaburi got world-famous for unfortunate events during WWII when Japanese forces forced Allied Prisoners Of War (POW) to build a railway from Thailand to Burma (Myanmar).

Construction of the Thai-Burma railway took so many lives that it got nicknamed the ‘Death Railway’.

The most popular attraction in Kanchanaburi is an iron bridge that became world-known thanks to The Bridge on the River Kwai movie. Kanchanaburi is home also to JEATEH War Museum and War Cemetary. 

Kanchanaburi is about a 2-hour drive from Bangkok. Visiting Kanchanaburi, the Bridge on the River Kwai, and taking a ride on the Death Railway by joining this Kanchanaburi from Bangkok tour makes a perfect day trip from Bangkok.

31. WATCH THAI BOXING (Muay Thai)

What could a better place to watch Thai boxing than its homeland?

If you would like to watch an authentic Thai kickboxing match, then you should head to MBK Fight Nights (free entrance), Lumpinee Stadium (the most prestigious Muay Thai stadium in the world with the best Muay Thai matches; equally loved by locals and tourists), Channel 7 Stadium or Rajadamnern Stadium (the oldest Muay Thai stadium in Thailand; check out this Entrance ticket with VIP seating to Rajdamnoen Muay Thai match).

If you are more interested in Thai boxing than merely watching it, you can also take a 2-hour class of Muay Thai led by boxing champion.

32. BUY ‘SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT’ T-SHIRT 

‘Same, same, but different’ is a famous Thai phrase that crossed the border of Thailand and today is widely used in all Southeast Asia.

Even more, the phrase has become a world phenomenon as a joke. Origins of the phrase are in the Thai phrase ‘khlai khlai gan’ where ‘khlai’ stands for  ‘same’ and it is repeated to emphasize it. Meaning of ‘Same same but different’ could be translated as ‘similar’. Typically Thai salesmen use it when they wish to sell something. Probably the best definition of it is in Urban Dictionary where it is described as ‘an attempt to sell something but can mean just about anything depending on what the user is trying to achieve.’

• ‘Are these Ray-Ban sunglasses?’
• ‘Same same but different.’

Nowadays the phrase stands as a trademark of Thailand and it is applied to many souvenirs in Thailand.

If you would like to get fun but culturally meaningful souvenirs from Bangkok, buy ‘Same Same, but Different’ t-shirt.

MAP OF BANGKOK ATTRACTIONS

Hope my travel guide to Bangkok has helped you with answers to questions you might have had: what to do in Bangkok Thailand, what are Bangkok places to visit, what are Bangkok must-sees, what are things to do in Thailand Bangkok, and why you should visit Bangkok at all.

If you are interested in how to visit top destinations in Thailand in only 10 days, I suggest checking out my 10 days in Thailand itinerary.