Bangkok is an intriguing and breathtakingly beautiful city. It is often called the Venice of Asia or the City of Angels.
Full of life at all hours, there are infinite opportunities for everyone to explore during the day and night- even if they are exhausted from spending every waking moment working.
With so many people coexisting in this one city, you will come across every class imaginable – from the wealthy to the needy.
Now let us look at some of the best things to do and see when visiting Bangkok.
Visit the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is the best place to visit while exploring this bustling metropolis.
It may be difficult to leave the city without first setting foot inside this historic landmark- but it is worth it! The palace has been the king’s home and site for Thai governance for centuries.
Some say it is necessary to take up to five hours to see everything inside these 214,000 square meters – so beware of unscrupulous vendors outside the gates.
Visit Wat Pho to See Reclining Budha
A visit to Wat Pho is a must for any traveler wanting an introduction to Thai culture and history.
Within the walls of this sacred temple is the revered Reclining Buddha which measures 15 meters tall, 46 meters long and has feet that measure 5 meters alone.
One hundred eight dishes inside the temple are based on the Buddhist tradition of 108 positive actions before one reaches perfection.
Visitors can purchase coins to put into each dish to commemorate these good deeds and receive a traditional Thai massage during their stay.
Visit Chatuchak Market!
This place is really large. You are either going to love it or run away from it quickly. Over 8000 stalls cover 27 acres of space, making this one of the largest markets in modern-day times.
Open Saturdays and Sundays, this marketplace attracts nearly 200,000 visitors daily. You can find anything you want or need here at reasonable prices–but make sure to pick up a map ahead of time if you do not want to spend hours wandering the crowded stalls!
Have a Boat Ride at the Chao Phraya River
Bangkok has been called ‘The Venice of the East because of its abundant canals fed by the river Chai Phraya. This history-rich waterway is still alive today and employs about 50,000 individuals.
Taking a boat tour is thrilling as you watch tall buildings one moment and then wooden shacks the next. You are free to get off wherever the ferry may stop for further exploration of this great city.
Visit the National Museum of Bangkok
The Bangkok National Museum is the most valuable repository of art in all of Thailand.
It was first opened by King Rama V when he wanted to display the treasures he received from his father as a sign of gratitude.
The museum has many captivating pieces and artifacts such as Chinese weapons, precious stones, puppets, clothing and textiles and Khon masks. There is an English-guided tour on Thursdays to go through all these pieces.
Visit China Town
Every major city has its own Chinatown, and Bangkok is no exception; you know you have arrived when you walk through the ceremonial Chinese gates leading into what we call ‘Chinatown’.
Packed with the best restaurants and street stands, your taste buds will not be disappointed! You will never find this many varieties of Chinese food anywhere else in Bangkok – and they are all so cheap too!
If you are looking for something even more valuable than gold (although we do not sell that), then you have found the right place because it is said to be one of the most popular places to go if there is anything from precious metals to priceless gems.
Go to Vimanmek Mansion
Vimanmek Mansion is the world’s largest teakwood building. Formally a royal residence, it was only used for a few years before being left abandoned and empty for many decades.
The mansion has now become a museum that features artifacts from ancient civilizations and photographs donated by His Majesty the King.
When you enter the building, you can take as many pictures as you want outside of the building, but when going inside, it is forbidden to use cameras due to safety reasons, and there are also formal rules in place.
Eat Street Food
With Thai people opting to eat out for every meal instead of cooking at home, the popularity of street food has never been higher.
On every major road, there will be either a street vendor or restaurant serving what locals and tourists want – cheap eats. Street food goes far beyond Pad Thai.
You will find vendors who sell everything from som tam (papaya salad) to squid – each dish served fresh right in front of you, almost as soon as it was prepared.
Ride the Sky Train
There are many ways to get around Bangkok quickly, but the best way is by taking the sky train. Air-conditioned cars make for an enjoyable ride with no worries about being hot.
Almost everywhere you want to go in Bangkok, there is a train station for it. As long as you are willing to wait for the next bus or taxi ride, trains provide an easy alternative.
You can see what is going on below from up here, and it will take you directly where you need to go without making too many detours.
Go to Dusit Zoo
Dusit Zoo is located in Bangkok, Thailand, and has been open for over 60 years.
The zoo contains approximately 1600 animals—including monkeys, alligators, lions, tigers, penguins, and kangaroos.
The zoo still serves its original purpose as a working one. It includes an animal hospital that takes care of all the creatures housed there and houses a museum and a train where visitors can take rides to various parts of the park.
Experience the Nightlife in Bangkok
Bangkok is well-known for its lively nightclub scene.
This city has it all when it comes to nightlife. From trendy pubs and neon-lit nightclubs to some of the best rooftops you can find, Bangkok might be one of the most happening cities in Asia.
However, I suggest you want something more adventurous than regular urban partying.
In that case, Bangkok offers everything from seedy sex dens and sweaty dance floors – or if you are looking for an authentic Thai experience, there are villages where locals still live off rice farming and other traditional ways.
Go to Wat Arun
There are over 31,000 Buddhist temples scattered throughout Thailand, and this one is one that you will never forget.
It is located near the riverbank of the Chao Phraya River and stands 79 meters high. The artwork on the tower was made using ceramic tiles and colorful porcelain.
This creates a unique sight when you catch it at just the right time of day – this temple is guarded by two deities who watch its grounds.
Try Durian
You will probably smell it before seeing it, but durian is typically called the king of fruit. Some people will love its taste while others despise it for various reasons- some places even go as far as to put up signs that prohibit any durians from being present.
Durian fruit is different from other fruits because of its unique appearance; the outside resembles a medieval spiked weapon, while inside, it tastes like thick, rich custard.
See Puppet Show
An absolute must-see for all visitors to Bangkok, these puppet shows let you see the puppeteers and experience them as part of the performance.
Three people are required to operate each puppet—an essential detail in telling traditional tales, while a live orchestra provides an immersive musical accompaniment.
The set design and craftsmanship that go into creating the props are magnificent. They are made by artists who also use incredible techniques.
Go to Awran Shrine
Erawan Shrine is situated in one of the busiest areas of Bangkok, a Brahman shrine that attracts so many visitors that it has become more popular than many other temples.
Constructed in the 1950s, this Shrine was erected because construction workers in an adjacent hotel felt too superstitious to continue their work as they believed that spirits residing within the grounds were causing trouble for them.
The Shrine has a deity of Brahma, an all-powerful Hindu God. People hang garlands there in the hopes that their wishes will come true.
Final Takeaways!
So, there you have it, everyone! Sightseeing, culture, shopping and relaxation – all wrapped up into one city.
From my experience visiting Bangkok many times before, no matter how often I visit this lovely place, every time feels new.
Those looking for a taste of Thai food would be spoiled for choice. Countless incredible restaurants and rooftop bars offer stunning views across the Bangkok skyline.
Those looking for culture might also enjoy visiting popular temples or floating markets for a different perspective on this unique country.
