Bangkok, Thailand, can soothe or ruffle, and it often does both. While contemplating the sunrise at a temple or monks collecting alms, you’ll marvel at what peace can be found in the midst of such a chaotic metropolis.
Here is out list of 10 Things to do in Bangkok.
Wat Arun
Located on the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of the most visited sites in all of Thailand. Also called the Temple of the Dawn, Wat Arun dates back to 1768 and features several elaborate spires, or prangs. The central prang is over 200 feet high and ornately decorated with porcelain that glimmers beautifully in the sunlight. Visitors can climb the central prang for breathtaking views of the river and the nearby Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
With over 8,000 stalls, the Chatuchak Weekend Market offers everything from antiques and collectables, to exotic plants and animals, to massages. This bustling market is one of the best things to do in Bangkok, which is why it sees over 200,000 visitors each weekend. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The coconut ice cream is a must-try!
Blue Elephant Cooking School
The Blue Elephant Cooking School is one of the best things to do in Bangkok and a must for foodies! You will take a trip to the market and learn about the local ingredients, then return to the school where you will be taught how to cook signature Thai dishes by trained chefs.
Pak Khlong Talat
Pak Khlong Talat is a famous 24-hour flower market in the city and one of the best things to do in Bangkok. This busy flower market comes alive just before dawn, when vendors receive deliveries of fresh-cut flowers from all over the region. The ground floor of the market also has a number of food stalls, where you can try satay skewers as well as authentic Thai curries and stir-fry dishes.
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks. It was constructed in 1782 and has served as the home of the King and the administrative seat of government in Thailand. The large complex is home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a large statue of the Buddha meticulously carved from a single slab of jade. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is considered Thailand’s most sacred site and appropriate attire is required.
Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park is a welcomed retreat from the bustling concrete jungle that is Bangkok. This sprawling park offers large, open green spaces perfect for recreational activities such as tai chi, fencing, yoga, cycling, and paddle-boating on the large lake. Lumpini park is also home to monitor lizards roaming freely around the grounds.
Warehouse 30
Warehouse 30 is a unique shopping/dining/entertainment center located in a stylish converted warehouse along the river in Bangkok. Warehouse 30 offers visitors a variety of shops, cafes and bars, as well as different events such as TEDTalks and more.
Wat Pho
Visiting Wat Pho is one of the top things to do in Bangkok. Wat Pho is home to the famed Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which features a giant statue of the Buddha in a reclining pose. The Reclining Buddha measures 150 feet long and is covered in gold leaf. Wat Pho is also one of the leading massage schools in the country and a great place to get a Thai massage.
Chinatown
The largest Chinatown in the world is located in Bangkok. With countless markets, street food stalls, temples, and endless people-watching, visiting Chinatown is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Chinatown is especially vibrant during major festivals like Chinese New Year.
Wat Suwannaram
Another must-see site in Bangkok is Wat Suwannaram, a Buddhist temple located along the Khlong Bangkok Noi canal. Wat Suwannaram is best-known for its elaborate murals painted inside the ubosot, or prayer room. The 19th century murals tell the story of the Buddha and are considered among Thailand’s finest murals.
Added suggestion for Memorable Meals—A dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River and canals aboard the Manohra; seafood and fabulous views at Supatra River House; fine Japanese food at Koi; pad thai, the country’s quintessential noodle dish, delicious street food at the many food stalls in Chinatown; award-winning Thai cuisine at Nahm.
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