Bangkok is a fascinating city that will leave you with an unforgettable experience. From the hustle and bustle of the vibrant street life to the ornate temples, to the delicious food – there’s so much to see and do in Bangkok. But if you really want to make your trip to Bangkok an incredible one, here are the 5 best things to do in Bangkok that will make your head spin!
1) The Grand Palace
A trip to Bangkok wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Grand Palace. Located in the heart of the city, the Grand Palace is an iconic landmark of Bangkok, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire country.
The Grand Palace is an enormous complex that consists of numerous buildings, halls, and courtyards.
It was built in 1782 by King Rama I and served as the royal residence for the royal family for 150 years until 1925. The palace itself is magnificent and is home to some of the most stunning architecture in Thailand. Inside you’ll find many of the most important and sacred Buddhist artifacts, including the Emerald Buddha which is considered the most sacred object in all of Thailand.
Visiting the Grand Palace is an amazing experience and one that you won’t soon forget. The beauty of the palace is simply breathtaking and will give you an insight into Thai culture, history, and art. Be sure to dress appropriately when visiting this historical site and respect the guards who protect it.
2) Wat Arun
Wat Arun is one of the most iconic sights in Bangkok, and it is definitely worth a visit. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, this temple is an amazing example of Thai architecture.
The temple is made up of intricately decorated spires that are surrounded by four prangs (or towers). Standing over 82 meters high, these towers are decorated with pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain, making them a spectacular sight to behold.
The Wat Arun complex also includes numerous shrines and sculptures, and visitors can explore the grounds for hours.
If you’re feeling brave, you can even climb up the steep stairs of the central prang for a spectacular view of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok skyline. No matter how you choose to explore Wat Arun, it is sure to be a memorable experience.
3) Wat Pho
When in Bangkok, a visit to the iconic Wat Pho Temple is a must. Located in the heart of Bangkok, Wat Pho is the oldest and largest temple complex in the city. It houses over 1,000 Buddha images and is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Built in 1782, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) is an impressive sight to behold. The giant golden reclining Buddha statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high – you can’t miss it!
You can take a guided tour around the complex to learn about its history and explore all the intricate details of the architecture. There are also displays about traditional Thai massage and reflexology which you can try out for yourself.
On the ground floor of the complex, you will find the four-meter-high golden Buddha statue which is the largest in Thailand. This is the most important image in the temple and visitors come from all over the world to see it.
Wat Pho is also home to a range of interesting attractions such as an open-air Thai medicine museum, a library, and an aquarium. If you’re looking for something a bit different to do in Bangkok, this is definitely worth checking out.
Overall, Wat Pho Temple is an amazing sight to see in Bangkok and should definitely be on your list of things to do while in the city.
4) The Floating Market
When visiting Bangkok, there’s one thing that should definitely be on your must-do list: the famous Floating Market. Located in Damnoen Saduak, the Floating Market is a great way to get a feel for traditional Thai culture.
The Floating Market is a daily market held in boats on the canals of Damnoen Saduak.
Vendors come from all around to sell their wares, ranging from food and snacks to local crafts and souvenirs. Tourists flock to the market to experience the unique atmosphere and take in the hustle and bustle of trading on the water.
The best time to visit the Floating Market is early in the morning when the canals are bustling with activity. Visitors can get up close and personal with the traders by renting a boat and exploring the market by themselves. There’s something truly special about being able to navigate through the canals, buying goods as you go.
In addition to shopping for local goods, visitors can also sample some of the delicious food available at the Floating Market. Everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to savory snacks and sweets can be found here, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.
So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience during your trip to Bangkok, don’t miss out on the Floating Market. It’s a great way to get a glimpse into traditional Thai culture and you never know what treasures you’ll find!
5) Khao San Road
Khao San Road is a must-visit when you’re in Bangkok. This vibrant street is the perfect place to experience the city’s eclectic culture, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and street vendors offering up local delights. Whether you’re looking to purchase a souvenir, sample some delicious Thai cuisine, or take part in some local nightlife, Khao San Road is the place to be. Here are some of the top things to do when you visit Khao San Road.
1. Shop for Bargains: Khao San Road is one of the best places to go shopping in Bangkok. You’ll find a variety of unique souvenirs, clothes, and accessories that are sure to make for the perfect memento of your trip. The street vendors offer excellent prices, so you can pick up something special without breaking the bank.
2. Indulge in Street Food: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some of the delicious street food available at Khao San Road? From pad thai and som tam to mango sticky rice and crispy fried insects, there are plenty of tasty treats to try. Make sure you bring your appetite – you’ll be spoilt for choice!
3. Enjoy Some Live Music: As the evening draws in, Khao San Road comes alive with street performers providing entertainment to the throngs of people who flock here each night. From acoustic guitarists and traditional Thai musicians to rock bands and DJs, it’s impossible not to enjoy the atmosphere here.
4. Bar-Hop ‘Til You Drop: With an array of bars and clubs, Khao San Road is one of the liveliest places in Bangkok. Whether you’re looking for a chilled-out atmosphere or an all-night party, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect spot for your evening.
5. Discover Local Art: Many of the bars and shops along Khao San Road feature artwork from local artists, making it a great place to pick up a unique piece for your home or office. You’ll also find colorful murals adorning the walls, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the street.
Whether you’re looking for a great shopping experience, a night out on the town, or just a chance to soak up some local culture, Khao San Road has it all. So don’t forget to add this vibrant area of Bangkok to your list of must-see attractions!