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  • 26 Best Things to Do In Bangkok

    Lydia Lau
    Lydia Lau
    Last updated 4 Jun 2020
    26 Best Things BKK
    Looking for top things to do in Bangkok for your next trip? Look no further! This list covers 26 unmissable activities for both first-timers and those who have been there countless times.

    1. Familiarize Yourself With The City

    Kickstart your journey with a Full Day Bangkok Tour. This is a must-do activity especially for those visiting Bangkok for the first time. The tour brings you to Maeklong Railway Market to uncover an eye-opening experience of how the locals make a living on a working train track.

    2. Food Tour via Tuk Tuk

    Tuktuk
    What better way to experience a different culture by eating your heart out? Zoom around Bangkok city on a Tuk Tuk (rickshaw), see the vibrant nightlife and explore beyond the usual tourist traps.
    Pro tip: Be sure to start on an empty stomach!

    3. Floating Markets

    Floating Mkt
    You’ve heard of the floating markets in Thailand but have you seen first-hand how these vendors prepare hot dishes like Pad Thai from a small boat bobbing on the water? The Damnoen Saduak floating market & Amphawa floating market are two of the unmissable spots you need to visit on your next trip to Bangkok!

    4. See The Dragon Temple, Wat Samphran

    This place is a hidden gem even for those who have been to Bangkok many times. It is a 40km drive from the city. The easiest way to get there is to hop on a taxi from the city. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, take the BTS to Bang Wa Station and grab a taxi from there.

    5. Visit Ancient City & Erawan Museum

    Learn about the rich history of Thai cultures as you roam through more than 116 scaled-down replicas of Thailand’s most sacred monuments at the Ancient City. It is also one of the largest outdoor museums in the world!

    6. Shopping Paradise

    Photo credits: © withGod / Shutterstock.com
    Photo credits: © withGod / Shutterstock.com
    Did we mention that Bangkok is a shopping paradise for shopaholics with different budgets? If you’re looking for the cheapest place to shop, Union Mall, Platinum Fashion Mall and MBK are the places to go! If you’re looking for malls with branded goods like Zara etc, head to Siam Paragon and CentralWorld.

    7. Jeh O Chula

    JehO
    One of Bangkok’s most popular spots for supper amongst the locals, famous for its instant noodle tom yum soup. What is so popular about it?! You’veYou got to find out for yourself.
    Note: Tom Yum Mama will only be served from 11pm onwards but the queue usually starts at 10pm!

    8. Siam Niramit, Thailand Must-See Show

    Siam Niramit
    The Siam Niramit show is one of the world’s largest stage productions and it showcases Thailand’s vibrant history and culture. You will get to learn more about the Thai way of life from 100 years ago at the pre-show so make sure you head there early!

    9. Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise

    Chao Phraya
    Cruise along the Chao Phraya river and see historic landmarks such as the Emerald Buddha Temple and Grand Palace all while feasting on a wide range of delicious cuisines. There is also a live band onboard playing throwback tunes to jazz things up a little.
    Tip: If you are nearby Chao Phraya, do check out Icon Siam because it is one of the fanciest malls in Bangkok with an indoor floating market not to be missed!

    10. Experience Thai Massage

    Thai Massage
    Getting a traditional thai massage is a must for anyone visiting Thailand. It is different from your usual massage as it uses passive-assisted stretching. Indulge in ultimate tranquility with affordable yet lavish spa packages at Let's Relax - one of Thailand's most popular day spa.

    11. Day Trip to Ayutthaya

    Ayu
    If you’re into ancient ruins and majestic palaces, a day trip to Ayutthaya is perfect for you. The historical city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Note that there are certain dress codes you should adhere to when visiting the Bang Pa In Palace.

    12. Thai Cooking Class

    Sompong
    Elevate your cooking skills and learn how to cook authentic Thai cuisines from one the best cooking classes in Bangkok. Start by visiting the local market to handpick fresh ingredients you are going to cook. You will get to taste your own Thai food creations at the end of the class.

    13. Mahanakhon Skywalk 

    Skywalk
    Ready to conquer your fear of heights and experience Thailand’s tallest observatory deck? The Mahanakhon SkyWalk is the place to go! If you’re feeling extra ambitious, head to the 78th floor to take an exhilarating walk across the world’s largest glass floors.

    14. Catch a Muay Thai Show

    Muay Thai
    Catching a Muay Thai show (Thai boxing) is an absolute must if you are into the sport or even if you have never heard of it. It is also known as the “Art of 8 Limbs”. Experience thrilling real fights up close when you purchase a premium ticket.

    15. Explore Rural Bangkok

    Bike Tour
    See the contrasting sides of Bangkok from modern lifestyle to rural traditions. Hop on a bike tour to leave the city skyline behind and venture to places you never knew existed in Bangkok.

    16. Chatuchak Weekend Market

    Chatuchak
    One of the world’s largest weekend markets with over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres. It can be easy to get lost in there but visiting the Chatuchak market itself is an experience not to be missed. You can shop for a wide range of goods from fashion apparels to home decor. It is also a street food heaven - we highly recommend the coconut ice cream and the honey roast pork at Moo Yang!

    17. Afternoon Tea at Erawan Tea Room

    Erawan
    Recommended by the Michelin Guide - a Thai and western fusion afternoon tea experience at Erawan Tea Room should be added to your to-do list. Treat yourself to a wide variety of sweet and savoury delights.

    18. Visit Chinatown

    Photo credits: @florianwehde / Unsplash
    Photo credits: @florianwehde / Unsplash
    Your trip to Bangkok isn’t complete without visiting Chinatown. Join a local expert and uncover hidden gems on this city adventure hand-picked by Lonely Planet Experiences.

    19. Speakeasy Bar Hunt

    Rabbithole
    If you are up for a speakeasy bar hunt hidden in the heart of Bangkok, these are our top picks for you:
    • #FindThePhotoBooth This bar doesn’t even have a name, just a hashtag! The entrance is hidden in a working photobooth in a regular bar named Score Bar.
    • Rabbit Hole One of Thonglor’s best-kept secrets hidden behind an unmarked wooden door. Save more on your drinks with this Cocktail voucher!
    • Havana Social Experience James Bond moment trying to hunt down the entrance into Havana Social. Once you step inside, you’ll instantly feel like you got transported to Cuba.

    20. See the Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha

    grand Palace
    Immerse yourself in the rich Thai history and culture as you stroll through the magnificent halls of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. If you want to save more time to take in the beauty of these majestic landmarks, join this skip-the-line guided tour!

    21. Explore Bangkok’s Nightlife

    Hangover
    Looks like a scene straight out of a movie? That’s because you are right. The Hangover 2 was filmed right here in Bangkok’s Chinatown. Now you get a chance to relive the movie with the Hangover tour. You’ll start by visiting bars on Soi Cowboy and end the night with a free Mike Tyson face tattoo!

    22. Erawan Shrine

    Erawan
    This is one of the most important Hindu shrines in Bangkok, located next to the busiest sidewalk in the city. It can get very crowded and chaotic so try to head there early in the morning or late at night. Grand Hyatt is right next door if you want to pop by for an all-you-can-eat dinner.

    23. Rooftop Bar 360 View

    Bangkok Balcony
    Want to make the last night of your trip memorable? Head to Baiyoke Sky Hotel’s 81st floor to feast on authentic thai cuisine and be in awe by the 360 degree view of the city skyline as you watch the sun sets.

    24. Take The Skytrain (BTS)

    Skytrain
    One of the best ways to get around Bangkok is taking the Skytrain (BTS). If you’re planning to spend an entire day exploring Bangkok, we highly recommend getting the One Day Pass that gives you access to unlimited rides. If you plan to spend a few days in Bangkok, check out the Skytrain Rabbit Card for discounted BTS rides!

    25. Stay connected

    Most importantly, if you are looking to stay connected throughout your Bangkok trip - this pocket wifi is what you need! Get access to unlimited high speed 4G internet and connect up to 10 devices.

    26. Bangkok Private Car Charter

    Travelling with a group of friends or simply enjoy having more privacy? Prefer to have the flexibility to customise your own trip? This private car charter is perfect for you! Plan your own itinerary for half or full day around Bangkok. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up and dropped off right at your hotel doorstep.

    A city so alive and so full of things to do, Bangkok truly should be in everyone's bucket list! Read more about what you can explore in the bustling city with the family.