Bangkok, the vibrant and sprawling capital of Thailand, blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors an abundance of experiences. From ornate temples and cultural sites to bustling markets and mouthwatering street food, Bangkok is a treasure that has resulted in it being one of the world’s top tourist destinations.
The Bangkok metropolitan area sprawls outward along the smooth delta surrounding both sides of the Chao Phraya River. Originally a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century, the village grew into a significant city under the reign of King Taksin in the late 18th century. It became the capital of Thailand (formerly Siam) in 1782 when King Rama I established the Chakri Dynasty. Throughout its history, Bangkok has experienced rapid urbanization, modernization, and cultural evolution, marked by periods of political turbulence and foreign influence. Today, its metropolitan population consists of over 14 million people, and the city hosts millions of tourists from throughout the world.
Bangkok lacks a major central business district, but rather encompasses many large and scattered commercial areas within 50 districts. The Sukhumvit and Silom business districts are located in the center of the metro area. Other more modern business districts and dense areas sprawl in all directions from the center.
I recently visited Bangkok for the second time. On this last trip, I spent two days in the city, prior to embarking on a 10-day Southeast Asia cruise that ended in Taipei. We booked our two day stay at the SQ Boutique Hotel in Sukhumvit, because of its central location and proximity to the MRT Blue line and the BTS Green line (see Getting Around Bangkok below). Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit sites in this dynamic city:
Palaces and Temples
No visit to Bangkok would be complete without visiting any of the dozens of majestic temples scattered throughout the city. The best time to visit temples is during the early morning, when the temperature is cooler and they are less crowded. You may see monks dressed in saffron colored robes attending to prayers. Visitors should dress in long pants or skirts, and shoes should be removed before entering the temples.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew – A first stop for learning about the rich history of Bangkok should be the Grand Palace located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River on Rattanakosin Island. The walled palace grounds, made up of numerous buildings, halls and gardens, was built in 1782 to serve as the official residence of the King. While the palace is still used for royal ceremonies and state functions, the Royal Family no longer lives there. Part of the complex includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), considered to be the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The Buddha, seated in a lotus position atop a multi-tiered pedestal, is made of green jade and clothed in gold. Visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture of the palace buildings, adorned with colorful mosaic tiles and ornate carvings.
Wat Phra Chetuphon – Directly south of the Grand Palace sits Wat Phra Chetuphon (also known as Wat Pho), ordered built for monks by King Rama I the Great during the late 17th century. The vast 20 acre complex contains one thousand Buddha images, four great multi-colored tiled stupas (domes structures used for meditation), numerous halls, pavilions and gardens, as well as Chinese guardian figures scattered throughout the complex guarding the temple entrances. One of the most interesting and popular sights is the Reclining Buddha. The 150-foot long buddha covered in gold leaf lays on its side with his hand supporting his head, representing the Buddha just before passing into the afterlife.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) – Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok. Its design is very different from other temples. As the sun rises over the river, the temple’s spires gleam like golden flames, earning it the nickname “Temple of Dawn.” But the temple is also stunning at sunset, particularly when lit up at night. Wat Arun dates to the Ayutthaya period under King Rama II. The temple’s stupas are built of white brick and decorated with a variety of materials such as seashells and porcelain. The central spire rises to nearly 300 feet, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. Visitors can climb the steep steps for panoramic views of the river and the city skyline, or take a boat ride along the river for a stunning vantage point.
Markets / Night Markets
Bangkok is famous for its many vibrant, colorful and sometimes chaotic markets, especially the night markets. These markets offer everything from clothing, handicrafts, furniture, antiques, plants and flowers to delicious and cheap street food. Night markets typically open around 5pm and close around midnight.
Asiatique Night Market – Asiatique was the first night market I ever visited in Bangkok, as it was near the hotel where I stayed during my first trip to Bangkok. It is probably the most commercial and upscale of all of the markets, and is characteristic of a lively mall combined with a theme park. Located about 10 minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station, it has over 1,500 boutiques, over 30 restaurants and various entertainment venues housed within numerous warehouses. Festival Village includes entertainment options such as Thailand’s largest Ferris wheel known as Asiatique Sky, a carousel, a haunted house, and a Calypso cabaret show. While the market is most popular during the evening, it is open from 10am to midnight. From the BTS station, visitors can walk to the Sathorn ferry station and take a quick boat ride to the market.
Khao San Road – Known as the energetic center for backpacker culture, Khao San Road offers just about everything for everyone. Located in Bangkok’s Old Town, known as Banglamphu, this market area attracts hippies, budget travelers, locals, families, and late-night revelers. It offers cheap guesthouses, food, books, massage parlors, tattoo shops, camping gear, record shops, clothing, and plenty of bars and night clubs. It is known as the place to party in Bangkok. During the evening, Khao San Road comes alive with people partying in the street. Food stalls also arrive selling ice cream, mango sticky rice, noodles, eggrolls, kebabs and even insects. First timers may be squeamish at seeing grilled scorpion on a stick. Khao San Road is not within easy access of any rapid transit line. It can be reached by the Chao Phraya River Express boat, bus, taxi or tuk tuk. The nearest transit station is Sam Yot on the MRT Blue line.
Chatuchak Weekend Market – The Chatuchak Weekend Market is Bangkok’s biggest market, but is only open on Saturday and Sunday. This massive market consists of over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres, attracting nearly 200,000 people per weekend. Prepare to be lost within the labyrinthine of alleyways and maze of stalls selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to exotic pets and delicious street food. It’s a shopping paradise where bargaining is an art form. The market is located in the northern part of Bangkok, and is accessible from both the Chatuchak Park or the Kampaeng Pet stations on the MRT Blue line.
Tha Tian – Tha Tian, located in a historic area along the east bank of the Chao Phraya River near Wat Phra Chetuphon temple, is one of the oldest market areas of Bangkok. The word “Tha” means port, as Tha Tian was historically an important area for maritime trade. During its heyday, the area contained a melting pot of cultures, including Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese. Today, the market area is filled with trendy cafés and restaurants, souvenir shops, coffee houses, galleries, tea and herb shops, and more. The market is focused on Tha Suphan Alley, while other alleys lead off it toward the river. Numerous spots along the river provide breathtaking views of Wat Arun on the opposite side.
Patpong Night Market – Located in the Silom district is Patpong Night Market, known for its plethora of vendors selling cheap knock-offs, food stalls, and uninhibited reputation. Its location in the heart of Bangkok’s notorious red light area makes it very popular among foreign visitors. The notorious nightlife area is filled with nightclubs, restaurants, go-go bars, and massage parlors. It is also where the majority of restaurants and bars that cater to the LGBTQ+ community are located (along Silom 4 alley). Within the market, visitors should expect to bargain. Many vendors will quote triple the price of what the goods are really worth. The market is located between Si Lom Road and Surawong Road, and is accessible from the Si Lom station that serves the BTS Green line and MRT Blue line.
Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market – The colorful and fragrant Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market, located along the Chao Phraya River just south of the Rop Krung canal, is where both consumers and wholesale buyers come to buy flowers and vegetables. It is one of the world’s largest flower markets, with endless rows of roses, jasmine, chrysanthemum, orchids, carnations, marigolds and more. Here you’ll see workers prepare sacred temple offerings, string jasmine into garlands, sort marigolds for street sellers, and create arrangements for funerals and weddings. Visitors can purchase hand made garlands, flower arrangement baskets, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables and local herbs and spices. The market is open 24 hours, but is busiest just before dawn when boats and trucks arrive with flowers from all over Thailand.
MBK Center – MBK Center is a sprawling eight-level shopping mall where bargain hunters go for good deals at over 2,000 shops, restaurants and service outlets. The mall is divided into various zones, including supermarket, mobile and IT, dining, entertainment, gold and jewelry, souvenirs, and more. Hundreds of small shops on each level sell items such as electronics, souvenirs and cosmetics. A large food court includes both Thai and international cuisines.
Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Chinatown, or Yaowarat as it is known locally, is a fascinating and vibrant area of Bangkok full of narrow alleyways, markets, and centuries old temples. It is located southeast along the east bank of the Chao Phraya River. Chinatown is one of the oldest areas of Bangkok, settled during the late 18th century when the Chinese came to the city after King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to where Bangkok is today. The Chinese took advantage of the river location to operate trade between Bangkok and China, mostly trading silk, tea, timber and rice. Today, market stalls sell an array of items including traditional Chinese herbs, tea and gold jewelry. Streetside eateries sell mouthwatering Chinese and Thai delicacies. At the Sampeng Market, located along Sampeng Lane, visitors can find everything from gold, clothes, food, spices, tea, fruits, electric goods, antiques and Chinese souvenirs. Chinatown covers a large area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road, towards the river. It is easily accessible from the Wat Mangkon station of the MRT Blue Line.
Chao Phraya River Longtail Boat Tour
While Bangkok is known for its vibrant street life, its intricate canal system, often dubbed as the “Venice of the East,” provides another way to explore the city. A longtail boat ride through Bangkok’s waterways offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition. They provide a fun and relaxing way to admire iconic landmarks from the water, explore hidden corners, and immerse into the local life along the riverbanks. At night, you can admire the city’s glittering skyline and iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky.
The Chao Phraya River serves as the main artery for longtail boat journeys, and tours continue along the series of tributary canals. The traditional wooden boats are adorned with unique bright and colorful garlands and flags. Once on board, you’ll pass floating markets bustling with activity, traditional stilt homes, and locals going about their daily routines, whether it’s washing clothes by the riverbank or commuting to work on boats. Our tour, arranged through Viator, made a stop at the Phasi Charoen temple, which features a recently built enormous gold Buddha statue that stands at nearly 300 feet, overlooking the surrounding homes and canals.
Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park, is a green oasis in the heart of Bangkok, where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park, Bangkok’s largest, is named after the Buddha’s birthplace in Nepal. Here you’ll see joggers, locals practicing Tai Chi, people taking aerobic classes, children enjoying a playground, and large resident monitor lizards lazing in the sun. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil lake, rent a paddleboat, or enjoy the beautiful lawns, flowers and wooded areas. The park is also home to various pagodas including the Chinese pavilion, and a monument dedicated to King Rama VI.
Other Nearby Attractions
Ayutthaya – North of Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River lies Ayutthaya, a city steeped in history and adorned with the remnants of an ancient kingdom. Ayutthaya was once the flourishing capital of Siam, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its majestic temples, towering stupas, and captivating ruins. On our day of embarking the cruise, we hired a driver to take us to two of the ruins in Ayutthaya.
Wat Mahathat is famous for its enigmatic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, with its towering chedi and rows of seated Buddha statues, is another sacred site that commands reverence and awe. Climbing to the top of the chedi offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – An hour west of Bangkok is the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market, set along a network of winding canals. Visitors can hire a longtail boat or paddleboat to meander through the waterways, stopping at various stalls to peruse the goods on offer, such as silk scarves, woven baskets, exotic fruits and local delicacies.
Mae Klong Railway Market – Located an hour west of Bangkok, and south of the floating market, is the Mae Klong Railway Market, known worldwide for its unique setting and extraordinary daily occurrence. This market is like no other. Its location is directly on an active railway track. Every hour or so, a train rumbles through the heart of the market, mere inches from the goods on display. Vendors swiftly retract their awnings and move their goods, while visitors stand back in awe, cameras poised to capture the moment. We arranged a tour through Viator that took us to both the floating market and the railway market as part of one excursion.
Getting Around Bangkok
Navigating the bustling streets and neighborhoods of Bangkok may seem daunting at first. The city lacks an organized, easily understood street grid. However, with a variety of transportation options available, getting around Bangkok is easier than you might think.
Rapid Transit Systems – Bangkok is served by four rapid transit systems totaling 10 individual lines. The systems include the BTS Skytrain (with three lines), the MRT (with four lines), the SRT Red Lines, and the Airport Rail Link. The Airport Rail Lin runs from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phaya Thai Station. These generally efficient systems connect key areas of the Bangkok metropolitan area. The negative aspect is that there is a lack of integrated stations or ticketing system. The individual systems offer single-trip tickets as well as rechargeable stored-value cards for frequent travelers.
Tuk-tuks and Motorbike Taxis – Tuk-tuks or motorbike taxis offer an adventurous mode of transportation, allowing users to take in the sights of the city’s bustling streets up close. These iconic vehicles are ubiquitous on Bangkok’s streets, offering a convenient and inexpensive way to navigate through traffic. Tuk-tuks are unmetered, so users should negotiate the price with the driver before getting on. Tuk-tuk tours with a set price are also available and can be arranged through Viator.
Public Buses – Bangkok’s public bus system, operated by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) provides an affordable option for getting around the city, with routes that cover virtually every corner of the metropolis. Most buses operate between 5am and 11pm daily. While the bus network can be daunting for first-time visitors, it’s a great way to explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and experience local life.
River Ferries – The Chao Phraya River Express boat offers a scenic alternative for traversing the city, with 34 stops, including key landmarks such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. In addition, the Khlong Saen Saep boat service includes 27 stops along the Saen Saep Canal. All boats have a different colored flag which denotes the stops and price. In most cases, visitors will use the boat with the orange flag which stops at most of the famous sights along the river.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps – Taxis are readily available throughout Bangkok and offer a convenient way to travel, especially during inclement weather or late at night. Be sure to insist on using the meter to ensure a fair fare. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Grab provide a convenient and reliable option for booking rides with upfront pricing and cashless payment options.