Tiếng Việt
Top 10 things to do when traveling in Bangkok.
There are hundreds of things to do in Bangkok. You could easily spend several weeks in this vibrant city and still not see everything! Thailand’s capital has something for everyone—from temples to markets and shopping malls, museums, palaces, and beautiful architecture. So if you’re wondering what to do in Bangkok, read our list of the 10 most exciting attractions in Bangkok.
10. Sea Life Bangkok.
One of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia, Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World (formerly called Ocean World), offers a welcome escape from the heat and crowds found at many of Bangkok’s outdoor attractions. If you are looking for things to do in Bangkok with children, this should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
The entrance fee is quite high if you only plan to stay for an hour, but if you spend more time there, you are more likely to get good value for your money. You may also consider upgrading your ticket to include a ride on the glass-bottom boat across the shark tank. This is probably the closest many of us will ever get to a shark! Upgrade options also include a 5D cinema, souvenir photos, and even a combined ticket for the aquarium and Madame Tussauds Bangkok.
The exhibits include an underwater tunnel, and there are countless species of fish and other marine creatures here, including octopuses, seahorses, turtles, and entertaining penguins. With everything indoors—and the food court of Siam Paragon shopping mall right outside the door—this is a very popular thing to do in Bangkok.
9. Bangkok National Museum.
When deciding what to do in Bangkok, you will discover that there are countless museums of different sizes and themes throughout the city. However, if you want to get a broad overview of Thai art and history, be sure to visit the Bangkok National Museum.
This is the largest museum in Southeast Asia, so you should set aside at least a few hours to explore this special attraction in Bangkok. We highly recommend it for anyone who wants to learn more about Thailand’s complex history. Starting from the main hall, you will find several interesting exhibits that provide an introduction to the country’s history.
The rest of the museum is spread across several buildings. Some buildings have more to offer than others, and some exhibitions are better than others. Parts of the museum have benefited from renovation, while other sections could still use further improvements. Overall, however, the insight you gain from visiting will help you better understand the local culture and appreciate even more of the many things to do in Bangkok.
8. Khao San Road
Although it is just a short street, Khao San Road is probably the most famous road in the city, making a visit to this backpacker paradise one of the top things to do in Bangkok. You could call it a tourist trap, but if you’re wondering what to do in Bangkok in the evening, this is a great place to try. It is friendly and has a fun, relaxed atmosphere thanks to the welcoming locals and travelers from around the world. If you are looking for cheap accommodation, backpackers usually come here, and it is also a place where many buses depart daily to other regions of Thailand.
But if you are not staying in one of the cheap hostels in the center of this Bangkok attraction, what does Khao San Road offer? During the day, you can shop for bargains from the street stalls—anything from pirated CDs to handicrafts and backpacking essentials. In the evening, this short street becomes crowded with people looking for a fun night out. Music plays from the shops and bars, and there are plenty of places to enjoy authentic Thai food. You can try an inexpensive foot massage after a day of sightseeing or watch some of the street entertainment and unusual attractions. Even if you only stop by for a short visit to see what all the excitement is about, this Bangkok attraction is truly an experience.
7. Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River winds its way through the heart of Bangkok and adds to the charm and appeal of this bustling metropolis. Being out on the water offers a welcome break from the crowds and heat, making a trip along the river a popular thing to do in Bangkok. River ferries travel back and forth between hotels and landmarks, so even if you only take a short ride from one side to the other, it can still be a pleasant experience.
The best way to see this Bangkok attraction is on a river cruise or by renting a boat and traveling at your own pace. Longboats can be hired from several different piers, and the price usually includes a driver, so you don’t have to worry about finding your way. Ask the driver to take you through the canals, as this is a wonderful thing to do in Bangkok that many visitors to the city never get to see.
There are also guided river cruises available if you want to learn more about the river while traveling along it. A dinner cruise is a perfect way to end the day, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective as the sun sets and the temples and palaces light up.
6. Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is to Bangkok what Central Park is to New York! It is the largest public park in the city and one of the few places around the city center where you can enjoy open space and greenery, away from the crowded streets, traffic jams, noise, and pollution. Like Central Park, there is plenty to see and do here, and after a few busy days in Bangkok, Lumphini Park truly feels like a peaceful oasis.
The park was created in the 1920s on royal land, and at that time it was actually located on the outskirts of the city. Today, it has been surrounded by urban development and now lies right in the heart of the main business district, making it an easily accessible attraction in Bangkok.
You can rent a boat and paddle around the artificial lake, then take a walk along the park’s 2.5 km (1.5 miles) of paths that are popular throughout the day and evening with walkers and joggers. The park comes alive early in the morning when locals arrive for their morning exercise, and there are stalls where you can buy food and various other items. People-watching is a fun thing to do in Bangkok, and early morning in Lumphini Park is the perfect time for it. Find a bench or an outdoor table and simply watch the world go by.
5. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Among the many things to do in Bangkok, shopping is always a popular pastime for both tourists and locals. There are countless markets and shopping malls, but nothing quite compares to the experience you will find at Chatuchak Weekend Market. This enormous market is one of the top attractions in Bangkok, with around 15,000 different stalls and approximately 200,000 visitors each day when it is open. As the name suggests, it is mainly a weekend market, open on Saturdays and Sundays, although one section called Jatujak Plaza is open throughout the week.
There is really no point in trying to list everything you can buy at the market because you can find almost anything here, and most items are very affordable. Of course, you should still bargain for a better price than the first one offered, as bargaining is expected in Bangkok!
Arrive early to avoid some of the crowds and the heat. With so many people walking around the stalls, the market can become very hot and uncomfortable, and you don’t want that to ruin your visit. If you don’t mind the crowds, stay longer during the day and enjoy some delicious food from the many street food stalls.
4. Jim Thompson House
The Jim Thompson House is one of the top attractions in Bangkok, offering insight into the life of its owner, Jim Thompson, as well as a look at beautiful traditional Thai architecture, silk, and art. Even if you do not know who Jim Thompson was, the house museum is fascinating, and the guided tours are both informative and enjoyable. Outside, the lush gardens provide a peaceful oasis compared to the busy streets just a few steps away, and the large fish pond is a great place to sit and relax after the tour.
Jim Thompson was a famous American businessman who founded a large and successful Thai silk company. During the 1950s and 1960s, he assembled this house using parts from six different traditional Thai houses to create the unique place you can visit today. The combination of historic Thai architecture with his own Western influences makes it a fascinating place. Perhaps even more intriguing is the mystery of what happened to Jim Thompson when he disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia in 1967.
3. Dusit Palace
Dusit Palace was not the official residence of Chulalongkorn, but it was his main living place. The king built this complex between 1897 and 1901 as a retreat from the heat of the Grand Palace. The palace complex is quite different from the intricate architecture and decoration of the Grand Palace, yet it remains one of the top things to see in Bangkok because of this contrast.
The main structure at Dusit Palace is Vimanmek Mansion. The architecture is close to traditional Thai style, but what makes this building special is that it is considered the largest golden teakwood house in the world. It is beautiful with its sometimes intricate details, and it is amazing to think that its walls were built entirely of wood.
The palace grounds are also very beautiful, and to make the most of your visit, you should consider using an audio guide. It is also best to visit in the morning before the tour buses arrive. Visitors must walk around barefoot and dress appropriately. Finally, if you visit the Grand Palace before this one, keep your ticket because it allows you free entry to the mansion
2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
One of the most recognizable landmarks in Thailand and one of the most famous temples in Bangkok, Wat Arun is actually called Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, which is quite a mouthful. It is more commonly known by the simpler name Temple of Dawn.
Its towering golden spire is a spectacular sight at any time of the day, but it is especially impressive when the sun sets on the horizon. Wat Arun is located opposite the Grand Palace, on the other side of the Chao Phraya River. You can easily take a boat from Saphan Taksin Pier, which will take you to Pier 8. From there, you can catch a shuttle boat that crosses the river.
There is a wide range of beautiful architecture to see at Wat Arun, so it is best to allow yourself at least an hour to explore this site
1. Grand Palace
It is called the Grand Palace, but the word “grand” hardly begins to describe how magnificent and intricate these historic buildings truly are. It is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Thailand and has played an important role in the country’s history, serving as the home of the Kings of Siam since 1782. Although it is no longer the official residence of the current king, King Rama X, it is still used for official events such as state functions and royal ceremonies throughout the year.
Among the many things to do in Bangkok, this attraction is a must-visit because of its architectural and cultural value. Walk past the street vendors outside who may try to guide you elsewhere to spend your money, and try to ignore the crowds of tourists wandering through the palace with you and the inevitable noise that comes with them. If you can set these negatives aside, you will truly appreciate the artifacts, beautiful Thai art, and the exquisite architecture and decoration throughout the palace.
Arriving by boat is probably the most stylish way to reach this Bangkok attraction, and you will enjoy wonderful views of the palace from the water as you approach. Be sure to wear clothing that covers your legs, otherwise you may have to rent a robe to be allowed into certain parts of the palace. Also, consider joining one of the free guided tours, as it is a perfect way to see the best parts and learn more while you explore
