Bangkok offers a great variety of activities to indulge in for both tourists as well as for locals. One can easily spend several weeks and still not get enough of it. There is something for everyone across all age groups to explore, whether it’s dazzling temples, antique museums, palaces and beautiful architecture, colorful and vibrant markets, shopping malls, and much more. Every place you visit in Bangkok has an intriguing story to tell you.
A List of Bangkok Must-Visit Tourist Attractions
Wat Arun
Popularly known as the temple of dawn, this is one of the main attractions offered in Bangkok tourism. This spectacular piece of architecture was constructed in the first half of the 19th century in typical ancient Khmer style. The glorious golden tower is an amazing sight to watch at any time of the day, although it looks more beautiful with the sunset in the backdrop. Placed opposite to the Grand Palace, across the Chao Phraya River. You will come across a beautiful set of architecture near Wat Arun and we recommend you that you allow yourself at least one hour when you visit this site.
The Grand Palace
We assure you that you will be stunned by the beauty of this historical complex. You can definitely count it as one of the top things to do in Bangkok. This ancient complex plays an important role in the history of Thailand, home to the Kings of Siam since the year 1782. It is still used today as the official hosting destination for state functions and other royal ceremonies all through the year. One of the beautiful places where you can explore the wonderful artifacts, beautiful Thai art, several architectural marvels, and decoration all through the palace complex. Follow a strict attire when you visit this place and we recommend you to join one of the free guided tours to get deep insight about this palace. One of the cities of Thailand, Chiang Mai also has numerous stunning architecture.
Jim Thompson House
You can count it as one of the top places to visit in Bangkok. Explore this beautiful house of owner Jim Thompson, an American businessman and enjoy the traditional architecture, marvelous silk, and modern art. This is one of the house museums where the guided tours are informative and a fun thing to indulge in. Silent lush green gardens and a large fish pond outside the palace are quite contrasting to the bustling streets that surround this grand house. This house is a mixture of ancient Thai architecture coupled with Western influences which make it an interesting visit.
Dusit Palace
The primary residence of King Rama V was built between 1897 and 1901. This palace complex has an elaborate architecture and ornamentation very similar to the Grand Palace. This is one of the top Bangkok points of interest, especially among tourists and visitors. The main structure of the palace complex, the Vimanmek Mansion is constructed in traditional Thai style with the walls built of only wood. In fact, it is home to the largest golden teakwood house in the entire world. The lush green palace grounds are beautifully laid which makes the visit even more intriguing. We recommend you to pick up an audio guide to get the best experience of this lavishing palace. The mornings are usually the best time to visit this grand palace. Do follow the dress code while you are entering all the palaces in Thailand. An entry ticket to the Grand Palace before marks a free entry to this palace, so do retain your Grand Palace ticket.
Chinatown
Your visit to Thailand would be incomplete without visiting the Chinatown. A colorful and vibrant area which is stuffed with market stalls and the highest number of gold shops in the entire city. You should check out the spirit of celebrations during major festivals like the Chinese New Year and the Vegetarian Festival. A perfect time to visit the Chinatown. Be part of the vivid celebrations of these festivals and we assure you that you will have the time of your life. The Chinatown also gives you a wonderful opportunity to taste delicious Thailand food dishes during your Thailand holidays.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Shopping is a favorite pastime for both locals and tourists alike. The shopping experience at Chatuchak Weekend Market in unmatchable with any place in Thailand. There are so many things and varieties available at your disposal, that you would be spoilt for choices. A humongous market which is home to 15,000 different stalls and it is visited by approximately 200,000 visitors each day. This is primarily a weekend market with only one section called Jatujak Plaza is open to the public all through the week. Don’t go with a fixed list about what to buy as you would surely end up buying more than that. Do polish your bargaining skills as they would come in handy during your purchases. If you are visiting the country for shopping, we would recommend going through our guide on what and where to buy in Thailand.
Khao San Road
One of the most popular street in the city, which is quite surprising considering the size of the street. A perfect way to spend an evening is a visit to this street. Stroll around the street and experience fun and a chilled out atmosphere due to the intensity of the locals and tourists visiting this place. Shop for cheap and reasonable goods ranging from pirated CDs to handicrafts and souvenirs. You can find cheap places to stay during your trip and it is also well connected to travel to other parts of Thailand. Apart from this, there are plenty of places to taste authentic Thai food. Do try out the Thai massage, a perfect way to revitalize your senses post a hectic day.
Chao Phraya River
This river not only runs through the heart of Bangkok, it also plays an integral part in adding a charm and appeal to this city. A trip to this river would leave aside the crowds and the heat of the bustling city and offer you a perfect opportunity to take a well-deserved break. There are an array of river ferries which allow you to move between various landmarks and hotels. You can even rent your own ferry and enjoy the landscape of the city at your own pace. The longboats come with a local driver so you need not worry about getting lost. Explore the virgin canals which are untouched by many tourists who visit Bangkok. A dinner cruise is also recommended as you get to see a different side of the city post sunset. This is a must-experience when you plan a trip for 3 days in Bangkok.
Besides planning your itinerary for Bangkok, the other cumbersome process is applying for Thailand visit visa. So, prepare well in advance and have an amazing holiday.