Planning a trip to Bangkok and wondering what to do in Bangkok? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Bangkok is one of those vibrant cities that’s always buzzing with energy. If it’s your first time visiting, it might feel a little overwhelming at first. But trust me, once you settle in, you’ll start to appreciate the unique vibe of the city.
To make the most of your visit, I’ve put together a guide of some of the best things to do in Bangkok. After spending quite a bit of time in Thailand over the past few years, I’ve come to visit Bangkok at least three times a year. Earlier this year, I spent a few days just exploring the city’s food scene, and it was amazing.
With its colorful lights, delicious food, and endless things to see and do, Bangkok truly has something for everyone. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia.
So, if you’re looking for a simple guide to help you figure out what to do in this incredible city, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive in.
Top Highlights: What to Do in Bangkok (2024)
Bangkok is a massive city with so much to explore. But along with all the excitement, it can get a bit chaotic too. If you’re wondering what to do in Bangkok, we believe the best way to experience the city is by simply walking around and soaking it all in. However, we’ve got a few tour suggestions to help you get the most out of your trip.
- Chef-Designed Food Tour – Explore Bangkok’s top food spots with this highly-rated tour on TripAdvisor. If you’re a foodie, this is a must!
- Floating Markets and Maeklong Railway – Visit two of Bangkok’s most popular spots on this easy, hassle-free tour!
- Bangkok Tuk-Tuk Tour – For the best street food in Bangkok, try this night-time tuk-tuk tour. You’ll hit all the top local spots.
- Must-Try Bangkok E-Scooter Tour – See a different side of Bangkok through the eyes of a local. This tour is highly recommended!
- Bangkok City Highlights Tour – Short on time? Book this guided tour to see Bangkok’s best temples and markets in a day.
- Muay Thai Boxing – Watching a fight is super exciting! It’s a must-do while you’re in the city.
- Private Hotel Transfers – Want to skip the chaos at the airport? Book a private transfer to your hotel and save a lot of time!
- Ayutthaya and River Cruise Day Trip – Visit the stunning UNESCO site of Ayutthaya, then enjoy a relaxing river cruise down the Chao Phraya River.
Eat Thai Street Food
You can’t visit Bangkok without diving into its incredible food scene. Just thinking about a hot plate of pad thai with a side of cold mango sticky rice makes me want to book a flight right now. And the best part? Most street food meals are only $1 to $3!
While it’s hard to go wrong with street food anywhere in the city, we recommend checking out Sukhumvit Soi 11. This downtown street is packed with food vendors. You can also head to Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, or explore Ratchawat Market and Petchaburi Soi 5 for even more tasty street eats.
Netflix has made Bangkok’s street food scene even more popular thanks to the show Street Food. So, we’ve put together a list of some of the must-try food spots featured in the show. Check out these well-known vendors when you’re in Bangkok:
- Jek Pui – If you’re craving some good curry, head to Jek Pui in Chinatown. It’s cheap, tasty, and worth every bite.
- Sukhumvit 38 Famous Ba Mee – For a classic Bangkok meal, try the egg noodles at Ba Mee. It’s a local favorite and definitely worth trying.
- Jai Fai – This legendary spot is the first street food vendor in Thailand to earn a Michelin star. Jai Fai is famous for her crab omelets and has been featured on Netflix’s Street Food and Somebody Feed Phil. The lines are long, but people don’t mind waiting for a taste of her cooking. If you’re after a Michelin-star meal that won’t break the bank, this is the place to go.
Recommended Food Tours in Bangkok:
- For an awesome food adventure, check out this highly rated food tour that takes you all over Chinatown’s best eats. Another option is this Chinatown Food Tour, which covers some of the top foodie spots in the area and comes highly recommended.
- If you want to explore lesser-known spots and experience authentic street food, book one of these local food tours to discover Bangkok’s hidden food gems.
2. Shop at the Chatuchak Market
Take a stroll through the maze-like Chatuchak Weekend Market, home to about 15,000 vendors. Even if you’re not looking for anything specific, you’ll probably end up leaving with something unexpected. From affordable clothes and gadgets to even exotic animals, Chatuchak is a one-of-a-kind experience.
There’s also a huge food area with tons of cheap, delicious options. You could easily spend hours just wandering through the endless rows of stalls. While there are tours available, we recommend exploring on your own so you have plenty of time to take it all in.
Although it’s mostly a daytime market, Chatuchak is also one of Bangkok’s popular night markets, attracting both locals and tourists.
How to Get to Chatuchak Weekend Market
To get to Chatuchak Weekend Market, you’ve got a couple of options:
- You can take the Skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station. Just exit at Exit 1, and you’ll see rows of stalls selling clothes.
- Or, you can hop on the Subway (MRT) and get off at Chatuchak Park station. Use Exit 1, and you’ll find a small entrance that leads you right into the market.
Visit a Rooftop Bar in Bangkok
One of my favorite things to do in any city, even though I’m not much of a city person, is to check out the skyline at night. We’ve done this in places like Chicago, New York, and even Manila. And honestly, there’s no better way to take in a city than by chilling at a rooftop bar.
In Bangkok, our top picks are Tichuca Rooftop Bar and the Vertigo and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel. Both spots serve up fantastic cocktails with even better views. Trust us, you’ve got to visit at least one of these!
We recently went to Tichuca and loved the relaxed vibe, plus the cool “Avatar-like” tree that’s right in the middle of the bar.
Most of these bars are located in hotels, but you can easily reserve a table as long as you’re ordering food or drinks. Sure, the prices are a bit higher than usual, but the views are totally worth it. If you want to party like a local, check out this nightlife tour that takes you to some of the best bars in Bangkok.
Other Rooftop Bars in Bangkok
If you’re looking for more rooftop bars in Bangkok, here are a few great options:
- Red Square at the Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
- Yao Rooftop Bar at the Marriott Hotel
- Penthouse Rooftop Bar at the Park Hyatt Bangkok
- Cru Champagne Bar at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld
For a full evening of dinner, drinks, and views, we recommend making a reservation ahead of time. You can also book a few great experiences, like the Crystal Dinner Buffet and Observation Deck at Baiyoke Tower, or just grab tickets to the Observation Deck and Revolving Viewpoint for some breathtaking views of the city.
Visit Bangkok’s Famous Shopping Malls.
For those trying to figure out what to do in Bangkok, shopping indoors is a great option if you want to avoid the heat. Head to some of Bangkok’s famous shopping centers like Pratunam, Siam Square, Siam Paragon, Central World, and MBK. These spots are perfect for bargain shopping, offering everything from clothes and electronics to footwear and more—all under one roof.
Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, with so many malls to choose from. Siam Paragon alone has over 250 stores and is conveniently located right by the Siam BTS Skytrain station.
When you shop in Bangkok, be ready to find just about anything! And if you’re shopping at markets or stalls, get ready to do a little bartering—it’s part of the experience.
A quick tip: learning a few basic Thai phrases can earn you some bonus points with the local vendors!
Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok is home to some truly stunning temples that you shouldn’t miss. If you love visiting temples, this city is perfect for you. If you just want to see the highlights, make sure to check out the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew—both located in the same complex. The good news is that many of the temples are within walking distance, so you can easily explore them all in one trip.
The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s top tourist attractions, and for good reason—it’s an incredible place to visit. Right next to it is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. You can visit these on your own or join a guided tour if you want to dive into the history.
Other Temples Worth Visiting:
- Wat Traimit
- Wat Saket
- Golden Mount
- Wat Kalayanamit
What to Wear in Temples: When visiting temples, make sure you’re dressed properly. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed, and you’ll need to cover your knees and shoulders (this goes for men too!). Flip-flops and sandals without back straps aren’t usually allowed either. It’s a good idea to have the right clothing with you to avoid any hassle. If you forget, there are booths outside where you can rent sarongs.
Grand Palace Scams: Be aware of scams around the Grand Palace. Only buy tickets from the official ticket window, and don’t listen to anyone who tries to tell you the palace is closed—they’re likely trying to sell you a private tour.
If you’re looking to visit multiple temples in one go, we recommend this temple walking tour that covers the top three temples in Bangkok. You can also check out Expedia’s guide for a quick overview of the city’s best attractions.
Visit Wat Arun
Another temple you shouldn’t miss is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Rising Sun or Temple of Dawn. It’s right across from the Grand Palace, and just a short, cheap ferry ride away.
You can spot Wat Arun’s famous spire from the Chao Phraya River, and the ferry ride over is super affordable, so it’s definitely worth spending some time exploring the area. Wat Pho is also right across from Wat Arun, so make sure to visit both while you’re there.
As with most Thai temples, Wat Arun has a dress code. You’ll need to dress modestly, covering your shoulders, arms, and knees. If you’re not dressed appropriately, you may have to rent or buy clothing before entering the temple grounds.
Go to Wat Pho: The Reclining Buddha
One of the top things to do in Bangkok is visiting Wat Pho, home to the massive golden Reclining Buddha. It’s a must-see when you’re in the city. Wat Pho (or Wat Po) is right across from Wat Arun, with only the Chao Phraya River separating them.
It’s one of the most impressive sights in Bangkok. If you’d like some local insights, you can join a tour that takes you around a few of the main temples, including Wat Pho.
Wat Pho, also known as Wat Phra Chetun or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is located just south of the Grand Palace, so it’s super convenient to visit if you’re already sightseeing in that area.
Go on a Culinary Food Tour
If you’re wondering what to do in Bangkok, we recommend going on a food tour that takes you to some of the best street food spots in the city. We love doing this because local guides always have the best tips on where to go and what to try.
While I’ve already mentioned a few tours, it’s worth saying again: Bangkok is a food lover’s paradise, and one of the best things to do here is to eat your way through the city.
- Bangkok by Night – Hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun night adventure through the city’s best markets, street food spots, and temples.
- Chef-Designed Food Tour – This food tour takes you to the top street food spots in Bangkok, all handpicked by a chef, so you know it’s going to be delicious.
- E-Scooter and Street Eats Tour – For something different, try this e-scooter tour that stops at lots of local food stalls, offering a truly unique experience.
Eat in Gourmet Michelin Starred Restaurants
If you’re a foodie like me, Bangkok is a dream come true with endless dining options. For a special night out, you can treat yourself to one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
A few spots that were featured on Chef’s Table and Somebody Feed Phil include Gaggan and Bo.lan. Gaggan is a progressive Indian fine dining restaurant that’s been making waves in Bangkok’s food scene. Even though it was set to close in 2020, it’s still a popular spot for many.
For a more traditional experience, Bo.lan offers authentic Thai food made with local and sustainable ingredients. It’s a must-try if you’re looking for a true taste of Thailand.
Another great spot to add to your list is Homeburg. Chef Taiki spent nine months perfecting his burger recipe, making just four burgers a day until he got it right. Now, he runs a small, reservation-only restaurant where he serves a multi-course meal, including two of his famous burgers. It was one of our favorite experiences during our last trip to Bangkok.
People Watching at Khao San Road
Known as the backpacker hub of the city, Khao San Road is a lively area packed with people, food stalls, bars, and hostels. If you’re still deciding what to do in Bangkok, this is the perfect place to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. Grab a seat at one of the many street bars, relax, and just watch the world go by.
If you’re traveling solo, Khao San is a great spot to meet other travelers. But be prepared—it’s BUSY. We wouldn’t recommend staying there since the hostels can get pretty loud, but it’s definitely worth checking out at least once.
If you want to party on Khao San Road with a local, check out this local tour that takes you to all the hotspots. For a similar vibe but with a bit less chaos, head over to Soi Rambuttri, which offers a more laid-back atmosphere.
Marvel at the Floating Markets
Not far from the city, you’ll find floating markets like Taling Chan and Khlong Lat Mayom, perfect for a day trip from Bangkok. Taling Chan is only 12 km from downtown, making it a more convenient option compared to larger markets like Damnoen Saduak, which is much farther away.
You can hop on a small longtail boat and cruise through the canals, watching locals trade, sell, and bargain over all kinds of items. There’s plenty of food to try, but the markets can get busy, so it’s best to go in the morning.
While there are tours that cover all the sights in one day, since these markets are easily accessible by public transport, we recommend going on your own. It’s a great way to experience the markets at your own pace, and who knows, you might even make a local friend along the way!
Other floating markets worth checking out include Amphawa and Bang Nam Pheung. For more info, check out this article that lists the best floating markets in Bangkok.
Do a Thai Cooking Class
If you’re trying to decide what to do in Bangkok, we highly recommend taking a cooking class to learn how to cook authentic Thai food. The cooking classes here are amazing, with tons of options to choose from! Check out the link above for a list of the best classes available.
We’ve taken cooking classes all over the world and love doing it. For us, it’s the ultimate travel souvenir and the perfect way to bring a piece of that place back home. Plus, you’ll be able to recreate those flavors whenever you want!
Here are other alternative cooking classes to take in Bangkok.
Thai Cooking Class – Dive into the flavors of Thailand with this hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to whip up delicious dishes from scratch.
Hands-On Cooking Class + Market Tour – Join this fun class that not only teaches you how to cook but also takes you on a market tour to pick the freshest ingredients.
Pink Chili Cooking Class – Spice things up with the Pink Chili Cooking Class, where you’ll learn to make authentic Thai dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Watch a Muay Thai Fight
For anyone who hasn’t been keeping up, Muay Thai is a hugely popular combat sport in Thailand. It’s similar to MMA but has its own unique style that sets it apart.
Bangkok is home to two national stadiums—Ratchadamnoen and Lumpini—where you can catch regular Muay Thai fights. Scoring tickets to a match is a must, and you’ll definitely be entertained!
This Muay Thai tour guarantees great seats, so you can fully soak in the atmosphere. The energy of the crowd, the intensity of the fight, and of course, the beer and stadium snacks all make for an unforgettable experience.
Visit the Jim Thompson Silk House
If you’re into textiles, a visit to the Jim Thompson Silk House is a must. The traditional teak houses that make up the complex are not only beautiful but also a highlight for many visitors.
At the Jim Thompson house, you’ll learn all about the Thai silk industry and the unique products they create. In case you didn’t know, Jim Thompson was an American architect and merchant who played a key role in reviving the Thai silk industry in the 20th century.
Visiting the Jim Thompson House is now one of the top things to do in Bangkok, especially for those interested in textiles and history. It’s definitely worth adding to your list!
Boat Ride in the Chao Phraya River
Take a break from the hustle of Bangkok with a peaceful sail down the Chao Phraya River. If you’re still figuring out what to do in Bangkok, these river tours offer dinner, live music, and stunning views of the beautiful Bangkok sunset.
A couple of great options are the Pearl River Cruise or the buffet dinner cruise by the Shangri-La Hotel. If you prefer exploring on your own, you can hop on a local water taxi or take a river canal cruise.
As you cruise down the river, you’ll pass by hotels, wooden shacks, old colonial buildings, and temples. Riding a local water taxi is a great way to interact with locals, unlike the more touristy boats. You can catch these boats at Sathorn Pier and ride all the way to the Grand Palace and back.
Try Durian
You can’t say you’ve truly been to Bangkok (or anywhere in Thailand) if you haven’t tried durian. Often called the “king of fruits,” durian is famous worldwide for its strong, unmistakable smell.
In fact, many hotels won’t even let you bring durian inside because of the odor, so your best bet is to try it out on the streets.
For me, durian is one of those fruits you either love or hate. If you can get past the smell, the rich, creamy texture and unique flavor are what make durian lovers obsessed with it.
You’ll find durian all over the streets of Bangkok, and it’s considered a delicacy by many.
Pamper Yourself with a Thai Massage
After a long day of sightseeing and walking around, there’s no better way to unwind than with a traditional Thai massage. Seriously, it’s a must!
Since you’re in the home of Thai massages, you’ll find no shortage of spas and massage spots. For a great, affordable option, head to Ruen Nuad on Convent Road. They offer a simple menu with options like a traditional Thai massage, foot massage, and one with aromatic oils—no frills, just relaxation.
Another popular spot is Health Land. Even though it’s a chain, it’s highly recommended for offering great value massages.
That said, Bangkok is full of amazing spas, so you’ll have no trouble finding a good one! One of the best things about being in Southeast Asia is how affordable massages are. In Bangkok, you can expect to pay anywhere from 500-800 THB for a session.
Chill Out at Lumpini Park
If you’re looking for a break from the busy streets and wondering what to do in Bangkok, head over to Lumpini Park. It’s a peaceful spot where both locals and tourists enjoy a stroll. The park is huge—over half a million square meters—and filled with different kinds of plants and flowers.
There’s always something happening at Lumpini Park. You’ll see people relaxing on mats, taking naps, practicing tai chi, and even live music performances on the weekends.
And of course, you’ll find plenty of food vendors near the Rama VI statue gate, so you can easily grab a bite and have an impromptu picnic!
Get a Sak Yant Tattoo
While you’re in Bangkok, you can consider getting a Sak Yant tattoo from a monk. These tattoos aren’t just a souvenir—they’re a sacred experience, with each design created specifically for you and blessed through a sacred prayer.
It’s an incredible and deeply meaningful experience, making it something both sacred and memorable. If you’re interested in learning more, click the button below.
Visit an Airplane Graveyard
If you’re into photography or love exploring unique, offbeat places, check out the Airplane Graveyard in Bangkok. It’s home to several abandoned planes, including a 747 that a family now calls home. For a small fee (around $8-10), you can wander around the site and snap as many photos as you like.
Explore the Abandoned The Sathorn Unique Tower
If you’ve been on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen photos of people climbing up abandoned hotels and towers in Bangkok. One of the most famous is the Sathorn Unique, a 49-story luxury hotel that was abandoned during the financial crisis.
If you decide to go, be sure to wear closed shoes and bring plenty of water—the climb up those stairs is steep!
Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
Looking for a fun night activity in Bangkok? Why not hop on a tuk-tuk tour and explore the many street food stalls that come alive after dark? Eating at night is one of our favorite things to do in the city, and it’s a big part of Bangkok’s culture.
Bangkok Cruise and Dinner
If you’re looking to enjoy an evening on the Chao Phraya River, check out this dinner cruise. They offer a buffet with both Thai and international dishes, along with live entertainment. It’s a fantastic way to take in the beautiful sights along the river.
Bangkok E-Scooter Night Food Tour
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s streets by joining a night food tour on e-scooters. You’ll get to visit historic spots like Thonburi, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Pak Khlong Talat flower market. Your local guide will show you around these sites while taking you to some amazing street food stalls along the way.
Go Bar Hopping
If you’re after the ultimate backpacker experience, head over to Khao San Road—it’s packed with restaurants and bars and really comes alive at night. It’s a must-visit spot for travelers!
But if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, check out the Vertigo and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel. The views are absolutely stunning.
And if speakeasy-style bars are your thing, don’t miss Havana Social. You enter through a phone booth and step into a Cuban-inspired bar, complete with hats and all! It’s a super fun and unique experience.
Enjoy the Views from the MahaNakhon SkyWalk
For breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline, head to the Mahanakhon SkyWalk. You’ll get to walk across one of the world’s largest glass floors with 360-degree panoramic views of the city from Thailand’s highest observation deck.
This experience is super popular with both locals and tourists, so make sure to book your tickets in advance—it tends to sell out fast!
Visit Yaowarat Road (Bangkok’s Chinatown)
Another must-visit in Bangkok is Yaowarat Road, the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown. It’s a great place to wander through the lively streets, enjoy some amazing food, and dive into a unique subculture within the city.
The streets are narrow and packed with market vendors, making it a fun, chaotic experience. If you’d rather have a local guide show you around, this backstreet tour of Chinatown is perfect!
Visit the Flower Market
For something a little different, check out Bangkok’s famous flower market located along the Chao Phraya River. It’s well-known across Thailand for its incredible variety of flowers in all shapes and sizes.
This flower market night tour takes you through the market’s local spots, where you can see everything from orchids to marigolds and other unique finds being sold.
Day Trips from Bangkok
Bangkok has plenty of amazing day trips that are definitely worth checking out. Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Visit the Bridge of Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a popular day trip from Bangkok. Step back in time and visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai, built by prisoners of war during WWII. It’s a must-see for history buffs!
Go to the Ayutthaya Temples
A visit to the ancient city and temples of Ayutthaya is a must for anyone interested in culture, history, and photography! As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya is one of the most popular day trips from Bangkok.
Be sure to set aside a full day (or even stay overnight), as the complex covers over 289 hectares. This tour combines the Ayutthaya temples with a relaxing river cruise, giving you the best of both worlds.
Maeklong Railway Market
Last but not least, one of the coolest day trips from Bangkok is a visit to the famous Maeklong Railway Market. It’s an incredible sight to see the narrow market stalls right next to the train tracks, making for some unforgettable photos!
This tour combines both the Maeklong Railway Market and the Amphawa Floating Market, giving you a perfect mix of unique experiences.
There you have it, folks—a great blend of sightseeing, culture, shopping, and relaxation. Having visited Bangkok several times, I can honestly say that every trip leaves me more captivated by this amazing city.
FAQ on Things to Do in Bangkok
Is 3 days sufficient to explore Bangkok?
Bangkok is a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Most visitors spend 3 to 4 days here, either at the start or the end of their trip. It’s a great idea to set aside at least 3 days to explore the city before heading to other parts of Thailand. It’s the ideal way to get a feel for Thai culture and dive into its unique energy.
What are some fun activities people enjoy in Bangkok?
Bangkok is a city that truly offers something for everyone. If you’re into shopping, you can’t miss the Chatuchak Weekend Market or the numerous shopping malls scattered throughout the city.
Food lovers will be in paradise with an endless variety of incredible restaurants and rooftop bars, perfect for savoring a meal while enjoying breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline. For a taste of local culture, exploring the city’s many temples and the famous floating markets is a must.
What are some things to do in Bangkok at night?
Bangkok truly comes to life after dark! There’s plenty to keep you entertained, from hopping between restaurants to sipping cocktails at rooftop bars or hidden speakeasies. For a fun night out, check out spots like Havana Social, Locker Room, or Rabbit Room — all great places to experience Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife.
What are the must-visit attractions in Bangkok?
If you’re short on time in Bangkok, make sure to visit these must-see spots: The Chao Phraya River, the impressive Reclining Buddha, The Grand Palace, and one of the local floating markets like Taling Chan or Khlong Lat Mayom. These highlights give you a real taste of the city’s rich culture and charm.
Which are the best temples to visit in Bangkok?
Bangkok is home to many temples, but the must-see ones are The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. These iconic sites offer a glimpse into the city’s deep cultural and historical roots, and they’re definitely worth a visit!
Bangkok Travel Tips
Pre-Travel Information
Before heading to Thailand, it’s important to understand the visa requirements. Many travelers can apply for an online visa, while some can get one upon arrival. Be sure to research your visa options well in advance to avoid any surprises.
Transportation
Whether you’re traveling to the Thai Islands or heading north after Bangkok, it’s smart to book your bus, train, or ferry tickets ahead of time. Websites like Bookaway and 12Go are great for checking schedules and reserving tickets, saving you the hassle of waiting in lines at travel agencies or bus stations.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
With thousands of accommodation options in Bangkok, picking the right place comes down to a few factors: location, proximity to the sights you want to visit, and, of course, your budget. Take these into account to find the best spot for your stay.
Deep Mala is a passionate blog writer who crafts engaging content on various topics, blending creativity and insight to inform, inspire, and entertain her readers.
