Travel

Places to Visit in Bangkok: 20 Must-Visit Attractions

At the top of the list of places to visit in Bangkok are the temples. The city boasts a total of 400 Buddhist temples. In addition to these, must-see spots include markets where you can experience the local atmosphere, shopping malls offering affordable prices considering the Thai baht, magnificent palaces, enchanting museums, and parks for those seeking a break from the crowds.

best-places-to-go-in-bangkok

In addition to the places included in my travel plan, I am listing the must-see spots in Bangkok for you. If you want to gain some general information about this impressive city beforehand, you can check out my Bangkok Travel Guide.

Wat Arun

Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is one of the city’s most famous temples. The 70-meter-high temple is adorned with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain.

I recommend visiting this temple early in the morning to capture the perfect shots and avoid the crowds. Additionally, you can rent traditional clothing from shops along the way to take unique and memorable photos.

If you need more information about Wat Arun you can visit Wat Arun Temple article for all you need to know about it.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is home to the famous reclining Buddha statue that stretches along the temple.

wat-pho-Temple-of-the-Reclining-Buddha-in-bangkok

Right next to the Grand Palace, this Buddhist temple features many different structures together. Wat Pho includes various statues and worship areas and is also home to Thailand’s first massage school.

wat-pho-bangkok-places-to-visit

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace, which includes the Wat Phra Kaew temple, is a palace complex built in 1782. It served as the official residence of the Thai royal family for approximately 150 years. Although the official residence is now the Chitralada Palace, official celebrations continue to be held here.

grand-palace-bangkok-places-to-visit

Due to its status as a royal palace, entry controls are very strict. This was also the place where I faced the most issues regarding dress code.

If you want to explore Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace in a single guided tour, you can check out the tour below.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Wat Saket

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, Wat Saket offers a fantastic view of the city. However, reaching the temple can be a bit challenging as you need to climb 300 steps.

Wat-Saket-bangkok-places-to-go

The temple is particularly famous for the Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong) at its summit, so it seems most sensible to catch your breath and power through the climb.

Wat Phra Kaew

Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew is Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple. It is located within the Grand Palace and houses the Emerald Buddha statue.

wat-phra-kaew-bangkok-best-attractions

 

National Museum

After visiting the Grand Palace, be sure to stop by the nearby National Museum. As Thailand’s largest museum, it holds significant cultural and historical value. Founded in 1874 by King Rama V, the museum houses an extensive collection showcasing Thailand’s rich history, art, and culture.

Bangkok_National_Museum must-see attraction

Chatuchak Market

Chatuchak Market, also known as the Chatuchak Weekend Market, is one of the largest markets in the world. Also referred to as “JJ Market,” this vast market spans 27 acres and hosts over 15,000 stalls and shops. Attracting around 200,000 visitors every weekend, the market offers everything from clothing and accessories to food and plants. It’s a great place to find souvenirs for your loved ones from Bangkok.

Chatuchak-Market-Bangkok-should-visit-places

The market is easily accessible via public transport; you can take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station or the MRT Metro to Chatuchak Park Station.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Located 100 km southwest of Bangkok in Ratchaburi Province, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the most popular floating markets in Thailand. If you want to experience a floating market during your visit to Thailand, Damnoen Saduak is a must-see. You can navigate the market by boat and purchase souvenirs, bags, clothes, fresh fruit, coconut, pineapple, and coconut ice cream.

Damnoen-Saduak-floating-market-bangkok

In addition to Damnoen Saduak, there are other floating markets near Bangkok that are easier to access:

  • Amphawa Floating Market: Located 50 km from Bangkok.
  • Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market: Located in Samut Prakan.
  • Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market: Located 20 km from Bangkok.
  • Taling Chan Floating Market: Just a few kilometers from Bangkok.

I traveled 100 km to experience the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Pratunam Market

Pratunam-market-Bangkok-shopping

Pratunam Market is a large and bustling market located in the Pratunam district, one of the central areas of Bangkok known for shopping and commerce. Popular among both locals and tourists, this market is especially famous for its clothing and textile products. It’s a great place to shop for items at wholesale prices.

Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market

Pak Khlong Talat is Bangkok’s largest and most famous flower market. Located near the Chao Phraya River in the Yodpiman River Walk area, this market is known for its vibrant flowers and lively atmosphere.

Pak-Khlong-Talat-flower-market-bangkok

Popular among both locals and tourists, Pak Khlong Talat is open 24 hours a day. I recommend visiting at the break of dawn to see the freshly arrived flowers.

Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a large open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Opened in 2012, this modern lifestyle area is a revitalized version of the former trading port of the Asia Trading Company, attracting visitors with its blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

asiatique-the-riverfront-bangkok-mall

Jim Thompson House

The Jim Thompson House is a museum complex located in the heart of Bangkok, known as the residence of the American businessman Jim Thompson who revitalized the Thai silk industry. Offering one of the finest examples of traditional Thai architecture and art, this house also showcases Jim Thompson’s fascinating life story and works.

Jim-Thompson-house-bangkok-places-to-see

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with guided tours available.

Mae Klong Railway Market

One of the most popular spots on the list of places to visit in Bangkok is the Maeklong Train Market, an unique market located in Samut Songkhram, about 70 km west of Bangkok. While you’re in Bangkok, you must see this fascinating place, right? It’s worth the trip!

railway-train-market-bazaar-bangkok

Also known as “Talad Rom Hub,” this market is one of the most unusual in the world because it is set up on active train tracks. The train passes through the market twice a day, so it’s essential to plan your visit times accordingly.

Lumphini Park

For those saying, “We’ve explored enough, let’s take a break,” Lumphini Park is the perfect spot. Located in the heart of Bangkok, this 142-acre park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is named after Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.

Lumphini-Park-bangkok-places-to-must-see

The park features activities such as cycling, walking, and tai chi, along with various events and festivals. It’s an excellent place to discover plant and bird species and to enjoy some quiet time. Be sure to add it to your list of places to visit in Bangkok.

Location and Access: Lumphini Park is centrally located in Bangkok at the intersection of Silom and Ratchadamri roads. You can easily reach it via the BTS Skytrain at Sala Daeng Station or the MRT Metro at Lumphini and Silom stations.

Opening Hours: The park is open daily from 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit.

Entrance Fee: Entry to the park is free. However, some events and activities may require a fee.

Chinatown

chinatown-in-bangkok-places-to-visit

Bangkok’s Chinatown is a historic district and one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in the city. This area, rich in Chinese culture, is filled with various restaurants, markets, temples, and shops. Popular among both locals and tourists, Chinatown offers a unique experience and a brief departure from Thai culture.

Chao Phraya River

Since Bangkok was built around the Chao Phraya River, you’ll see it wherever you go. However, you can also explore the city from a different perspective by taking boat tours on the river. By joining a boat tour in the “Venice of the East,” you can see many historical structures and modern buildings along the river in one go.

chao-phraya-river-in-bangkok

I took a boat to Wat Arun, and even that was an interesting experience. Taking a tour would be even more unique. If you have the time, it’s definitely worth doing.

MBK Center

MBK Center is one of the largest and most popular shopping malls in Thailand. Opened in 1985, this shopping complex attracts both locals and tourists alike. The eight-story MBK Center offers a wide range of products, from clothing and electronics to furniture and food.

mbk-center-bangkok-alisveris-merkezi

Location and Access: MBK Center is centrally located in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok. It has direct access from the BTS Skytrain’s National Stadium station and is within walking distance from the Siam station.

Opening Hours: MBK Center is typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Khao San Road

khoa-san-road-bangkokta-gorulmasi-gereken-yerler

Due to coinciding with water fights, I couldn’t explore Khao San Road. However, it is a bustling street popular among backpackers and tourists at all hours of the day. Located in Bangkok’s old town area on Rattanakosin Island, it is very close to the Grand Palace. Khao San Road is famous for its variety of accommodation options, restaurants, bars, shops, and vibrant nightlife.

Ancient City

For those looking to explore Thailand’s historical and cultural heritage, Ancient City is a unique open-air museum located about 30 km south of Bangkok in Samut Prakan. Most people are unaware of this place, making it quite tranquil and perfect for photography. Also known as “Mueang Boran,” this vast park features miniature replicas of significant historical and cultural structures from all over Thailand.

ancient-city-in-bangkok

Don’t be misled by the term “miniature” – it feels almost like visiting the real structures. It’s like seeing all the must-visit places in Bangkok in one go.

To learn more about this unique museum, you can read the article Ancient City Travel Guide

Iconsiam

Iconsiam is one of the largest and most luxurious shopping malls in Bangkok, recommended to be explored over at least three days. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the Khlong San district, this magnificent mall offers a blend of modern shopping experiences, cultural events, and entertainment.

iconsiam-bangkok-shopping-center-mall

I visited Iconsiam for dinner after returning from Ancient City, and it truly is a massive place.

***

Of course, the list of places to visit in Bangkok can be extended even further, but I’ll stop here.

If you’re planning a more fun and experience-focused trip to Bangkok, I invite you to check out article on Things to Do in Bangkok. There, you’ll find a variety of events, courses, and activities that will let you fully immerse yourself in Thai culture.

Guided Bangkok Tours

Powered by GetYourGuide

Ulviye Suna

Hello, I'm Ulviye. I have been working as a professional digital marketing specialist for about 15 years. My amateur interests include decoration, travel, yoga, astrology, and surfing. I enjoy sharing my personal experiences related to these topics. I hope you find them beneficial as well.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *