Things to do in Bangkok
Bangkok, also known as the "City of Angels," is the capital of Thailand and the perfect choice if you plan to discover Southeast Asia. This charming city always has something new and exciting to offer its visitors. The city is rich in activities you can do, starting with exploring the country's culture by visiting temples, followed by exciting shopping experiences that you shouldn't miss, and ending with delicious food experiences that the city is famous for and more.
Bangkok is easy to navigate, making it an ideal choice for first-time travellers. And you don't need a lot of money to stay there, as hotels, restaurants, tours, and transportation are relatively cheap compared to many other destinations. If this is your first visit and you're wondering what to do in Bangkok or where to go in Bangkok, we've put together this guide to help you find the best things to do in Bangkok.
Top Bangkok Attractions
The Grand Palace Located in the heart of the city, the Grand Palace is one of Bangkok's most famous tourist attractions and one of its architectural wonders. Built-in 1782 by King Rama I, the palace attracts visitors from all over the world who come to see the Grand Palace and enjoy the beauty of Thai architectural art. The palace is divided into several quarters: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Outer Court, the Inner Court, and the Middle Court. The palace also features huge towers decorated with gold and many shrines and statues of mythical Buddhist and Hindu creatures such as Hanuman and Kinari. The most prominent landmark in the palace is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which is the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand and houses a statue of the Emerald Buddha. Note that the clothes the Buddha statue wears can be one of three different outfits depending on the season, whether it is summer, winter, or rainy season. Remember to wear modest clothing when visiting the palace to avoid being denied entry.
Wat Pho
Bangkok is known for its stunning temples, and one of the most prominent of these is Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Located south of the Grand Palace, the temple is home to a giant Buddha statue that is 15 meters high and 46 meters long. The statue is covered in gold leaf, and its feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The temple courtyard contains giant Chinese statues that were used as ballast for ships, and the temple also contains no less than 91 decorated stupas. Inside the temple, there are also 108 bronze bowls, which some believe bring good luck when you throw a coin in them. So don't forget to throw your coins in them while visiting the temple.
Wat Arun
One of the most prominent temples that you should not miss visiting is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, the temple is characterized by a height of over 75 meters, allowing you to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city from above when you climb it. Although the temple is referred to as the Temple of Dawn, it has a beautiful view, especially at sunset. Please note that the temple, like the rest of Thailand's temples, requires you to wear modest clothing to be able to enter it.
Fun Things to Do in Bangkok
Safari World Bangkok Safari World is located about 40 kilometers north of downtown Bangkok. The park is considered one of the largest zoos in Asia and is the perfect choice if you want to spend a fun family day, as the activities in the park are suitable for all ages. The park is divided into two sections: Safari Park and Marine Park. Enjoy the Safari Park by driving your car alongside animals, learning about their behaviours and natural characteristics, and getting close to wild animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, bears, and many other animals. Then move on to Marine Park, where you can meet a variety of marine animals. Watch dolphin shows and see aquariums that contain a variety of marine creatures.
Siam Amazing Park
If you want to spend a truly amazing day, Siam Amazing Park is the perfect place for you. Whether you're a fan of water games or thrill rides, you'll definitely find something to enjoy in the park, as it consists of 6 different attraction zones: Water World, Extreme World, Adventure World, Family World, and Small World.
Water World
Water World boasts the world's largest wave pool, as certified by the Guinness World Records. In addition, it features numerous other thrilling water rides, such as Speed Slide, Siam Lagoon, and Super Spiral.
Extreme World
Specifically designed for thrill-seekers, this zone houses various roller coasters guaranteed to give you an adrenaline rush. Among these exhilarating rides are Vortex, Giant Drops, and Boomerang.
Adventure World
Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to excite them in this zone. It offers a variety of adventures, including the Jurassic Adventure, Astroliner, and Twin Dragon.
Family World
This zone promises fun for the whole family, featuring global-themed rides tailored to different age groups. For instance, the Africa Adventure takes you on a journey through Africa, where you'll encounter approximately 300 animal models. Another popular ride is the Siam Tower.
Small World
This zone was created specifically for children under 130 cm. This zone is filled with age-appropriate rides like a mini carousel, small fighter jets, and a small boat, among others.
Chao Phraya River Cruise
A Chao Phraya River cruise is one of the most beautiful things to do in Bangkok at night. On this tour, you can enjoy seeing the most prominent tourist attractions in Bangkok, and you can choose between more than one type of tour, whether it's the hop-on hop-off tour, where you board the boat and get off at any pier you prefer to visit any tourist attraction you pass by, or tours where you take a longer and more relaxing trip and have dinner on board while enjoying seeing the illuminated places around you.
Visiting Floating Markets
Bangkok is famous for its floating markets, and we recommend that you visit at least one floating market while you're there. It's a new and unique experience in Thailand where you take a wooden boat and enjoy the view and vibes of the market, and you can buy from vendors who display their goods on wooden boats. Some of the most famous floating markets in Bangkok are Amphawa Floating Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, and Taling Chan Market. Don't miss visiting one of them during your trip to Bangkok.
