33+ BEST Things to Do in Bangkok You Can’t Miss

There are endless fun things to do in Bangkok and if you’re bored, you’re not doing it right! We created this list of the top things to do in Bangkok, Thailand. Some are super touristy (yet still worthwhile), like the Grand Palace, but some are hidden gems, like an amazing Tuk Tuk Food Tour.

In this travel guide, we’re laying out the best hotels in Bangkok, how to use the metro system, what to do in Bangkok, foods to eat, and common scams to avoid.

From street food to fine dining, and glimpses of a rich culture around every corner, there are so many fun things to do in Bangkok.

Whether you’retraveling in Thailandfor your first time (yay!), or are just looking for something to do in Bangkok during a quick layover, you’ll surely find a few of these unique activities and cheap things to do that strike your fancy.After reading this, you’ll hopefully know exactly what to do in Bangkok right from the start.

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Article Contents

• Things to Do in Bangkok
• Best Day Trips from Bangkok
• 3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Bangkok
• Where to eat in Bangkok
• How to take the Skytrain in Bangkok
• How to get a Thai SIM card
• Scams to Avoid in Bangkok

Highlights of the Best Things to Do in Bangkok

There is so much to do in Bangkok, so let us quickly break down some of the major highlights for you:

1. Take aTuk Tuk food tour
2. Visit a Floating Market
3. Tour the Grand Palace
4. Wander Khao San Road
5. Get a Thai Massage
6. Explore Chinatown and eat street food
7. Stroll through the Pak Khlong Flower Market
8. Shop (and Eat!) at the Chatuchak Weekend Market
9. Tour the historic Jim Thompson House
10. Go to a Muay Thai fight

Before you pack your bags and book your flights,don’t forget to do this… you’ll thank us later.

最好的事情要做在曼谷,泰国

Let’s get right to it. You better hang on, because Bangkok can be a wild ride!

But first, here’s aGoogle mapso you can reference where each activity or landmark is located in Bangkok.

1. Take a Thai Food Tour in a Tuk Tuk

If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, you’re going to want to read this – trust us.

Bangkok is a perfect place to delve further into Thai cuisine and go beyond the typical pad thai and green curry you order at home.

When we heard about Expique, a company that offers all sorts offood tours in Bangkok, we were super intrigued. From cooking classes to fruit-carving workshops, there is no shortage of unique options to choose from.

We decided to take the Evening Tuk Tuk Food Adventure which promises to introduce guests to many different Thai dishes.

We’ve spent quite a bit of time in Thailand, and have tried many different dishes (or so we thought!), but much of what we tried on this 4-hour tour was new to us.

This tour mixes a bit of sightseeing with lots of eating, and takes you to a couple of Bangkok’s most interesting markets – including the Flower Market, a local Muslim market and, of course, Chinatown!

Culture is strongly tied to food, so to really understand life in Thailand, getting to know the cuisine is super important.Our guide, Bee, told us snippets about what life is like in Bangkok and answered all of our questions (whether they were stupid or not!).

Part of what makes this tour special is that the menu changes depending on what is in season or what’s being served at some of the food stands.

And some of the adventure comes from not quite knowing what you’re about to try. But we also understand wanting to have an idea of what will be served…

Here are just some of the things we tried on our tour (but remember, they can change daily depending on what’s available):

• Chicken satay skewers
• Juice in a bag, like the locals drink! (We liked Butterfly Pea – a sweet and tangy tea, as well as Rosella – a tart and refreshing juice made from the hibiscus flower).
• An assortment of chili dips with local vegetables
• Crab stuffed omelet
• Sweet fried chicken
• String beans and shrimp
• Miang kham wraps – one of the more interesting dishes on the tour!
• Fried flat noodles with chicken (from a hidden street stand in a back alleyway)
• Crispy crickets! This was the most “adventurous” food on the tour, and it actually tasted pretty darn good!
• Hot ginger soup and rice balls filled with sweet sesame (a super interesting dessert from Chinatown)
• Ice cream!

In the end, this tour was one of our all-time favorite things to do in Bangkok!

How to do it yourself:

Book anExpique food tour in Bangkoktoday! They also have tuk tuk adventures, walking tours, and market experiences. Their friendly staff is very responsive if you have any questions and will send you a confirmation of your tour once you book.

• Cost:about $75 USD per person
• Duration:4 hours
• Departures Available:Tues – Sun @ 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 6:45 p.m.

BONUS:If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you know we’re obsessed withtaking cooking classeswhile we’re visiting different countries. However, if you want to find the right cooking class for you, we recommend browsingCookly in Bangkokto find a selection of the top cooking classes in the city.

There are options for you whether you’re on a budget or have a more luxurious taste. Check out the reviews and discover the perfect cooking class in Bangkok.

Planning a Trip to Thailand?Find out thebest time to visitbased on regional weather patterns and festivals and events you don’t want to miss!

2. ExperienceKhlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

One of the sought-after things to do in Bangkok is visit a floating market. However, floating markets are not what they once were in Southeast Asia. Today, many of these markets are more for tourist photo ops than for locals to buy produce.Can you say “tourist trap”?!

Damnoen Saduakis perhaps the most famous floating market in Thailand, and by all accounts, we have heard, it is a big touristy mess. Not really our style.Plus, it’s located 62 miles (100 km) outside of Bangkok, so it takes the better part of the day to get there and back.

We wondered if visiting a floating market near Bangkok would be worth it. After doing a little research, we found one market that people consistently said was more authentic and less touristy than the other floating markets near Bangkok.

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is just 17 km from the city center and is easy to visit during even a short stay in Bangkok.When we arrived we noticed we were basically the only tourists in the whole market. The market has many sections separated by a few canals where you can buy fruits and other snacks.

How to do it yourself:

Hop in a taxiand tell them Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market. Be sure they know where it is and they don’t try to take you to the other floating markets. A fair pricefrom the city center is 200-250 bahtand will take about25-35 minutesdepending on traffic.

If you want to trade in tourist traps for authentic experiences, check outViaHero. They’ll connect you with a local in Thailand to personalize your trip and point you toward truly local experiences.

3. Explore the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is, as the name implies, nothing short ofgrand. The detailed architecture, with precious gem inlays and gold leaf designs, is awe-inspiring and worthy of a visit.

The Grand Palace consists of two main areas: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the royal residence.

You can tour the grounds on your own or you can rent an audio guide for just 200 baht. Audio guides are available in English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Mandarin, and Thai.

What time of day should I go to the Grand Palace?

计划花几个小时探索,try to arrive early if possible, as the heat of the day will set in quickly. Most of the big tour groups arrive around 9 a.m. so try to sneak in before then if possible.

• Hours of Operation:8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

There are free English tours at 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. You can also purchase an audio guide for 100 baht at the ticket counter.

Entrance fee:The entrance to the Grand Palace is 500 baht per person for foreigners (around $14.96 USD).

Scams near the Grand Palace

Near the Grand Palace, there are tuk tuk drivers that will tell you the Palace is closed for a religious ceremony. They will offer to take you to other temples and show you around the city for cheap.

We encountered this scam during one visit in Bangkok, and luckily we kept walking and soon saw the line of people entering the palace, so we knew it was not closed.Simply ignore anyone who tells you the palace is closed and keep walking toward the entrance.

Dress code for Bangkok’s Grand Palace:

There is a strict dress code enforced at the Grand Palace, and you will not be allowed inside if you are not dressed appropriately.

• Shoulders must be covered:This means no tank tops or sleeveless shirts for men or women. You may wear a tank top, but cover up with a cardigan or shall before entering. T-shirts are okay.
• Knees must be covered:This means you must wear pants or a dress/skirt that falls below your knees. And guys, your 90s-style shorts that sag down past your knees are not acceptable… for many reasons.
• No tight clothing:Don’t wear leggings or a tight dress/skirt that could be seen as inappropriate. Dressing in loose clothing will also keep you cooler.
• No see-through clothing:This is pretty self-explanatory.
• No flip-flops allowed:You can wear sandals, but they must have a back strap to be acceptable.
• Hats are okayto wear and can provide you with a bit of shade.

Tip: Wear shoes that are comfortable and are easy to slip on and off. There are some places within the grounds that you will need to remove your shoes in order to enter. There are racks to store your shoes, but beware that sometimes shoes are stolen, so don’t wear your favorite, most expensive designer shoes!

4. Visit Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha are just south of the Grand Palace and are a pretty cool sight to see. The Buddha measures 150 feet long (43 meters) and is housed inside a building so you see it in small sections. A visit here doesn’t take more than perhaps a half hour.

Entrance fee:The entrance to Wat Pho is 200 baht per person for foreigners (around $5.70 USD).

How to do it yourself:

All taxi and tuk tuk drivers will know how to find the Grand Palace. If they tell you it is closed, walk away and find another driver because they are trying to scam you.

Tip: If you are staying in the Silom area, you can walk to the river and take a water taxi to the Tha Chang Pier stop, which is within walking distance of the Grand Palace. (See #4 for more information on Water Taxis.)

Everything you need to pack for Thailand

5. Ride in a water taxi in Bangkok

Taking a water taxi is a super cheap mode of transportation, and feeling the wind in your hair is unbeatable on a hot day.

We took the water taxi fromSathorn Pier to the Grand Palace and back, and found it kind of fun to see the city from a different perspective.

How to do it yourself:

Skip the stands nearby the taxi that charge 100 baht (or more) per person, as these are tourist boats. (That said, if you want a more “comfortable” experience instead of the local version of transport, this could be a good option for you.)

The fare for aregular water taxi is 15 baht per person, and the boat will make several stops along the trip to let passengers on and off. From Sathorn Pier to the Grand Palace, the trip takes about 20-30 minutes.

Tip: Beware that the water taxis get very busy later in the day, so you may just want to utilize this mode of transportation in the morning. On our way back from the Grand Palace, we stood for the entire trip, which lasted about 20 minutes.

Need a ride into or out of Bangkok?

When we’re in Thailand we like to use12go.asiafor looking up transportation; whether we’re traveling by plane, train, bus, or ferry. They typically have decent deals and it’s a good place to start when checking the times and schedules.

6. People watch on Khao San Road

This famous (or infamous!) Khao San Road turns into a bustling night market each evening. Littered with bars, street vendors and restaurants, this is an interesting place to people watch, if nothing else.

Just to be clear, most of the people-watching will be of foreigners, as this isn’t necessarily a local hotspot. Think the Las Vegas strip with an Asian flair.

走这条街和你喝,或者你啊rder a “bucket” of Thai whiskey, energy drink, and Coca-cola to get ready for a wild night. If you’re feeling adventurous,taste a fried scorpionorget your toes tickled with a fish massage.

If you’d like to see live music,Roof Barboasts some of the best on the street.Brick Baris known for having one of the more local vibes on the street.

How to do it yourself:

Again, all taxis and tuk tuk drivers will know of Khao San Road and would be happy to take you.

Transportation tip:If you take a taxi, ask them to use the meter (it is cheaper!), and if you take a tuk tuk, decide on a price before hopping in.

Alternative Night Market: Talad Rot Fai —Bangkokians’ favorite night market

If you have been-there-done-that, or the debauchery of Khao San Road just doesn’t appeal to you, head to Talad Rot Fai, a night market that is popular among locals. Here, you’ll find more Thai people and fewer wasted 18-year-old backpackers.

Related:Looking for information about gay travel in Bangkok? Here is a greatGay Bangkok Travel Guide.

7. Explore Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning Buddhist temple situated by the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

It is hard to miss when traveling on the river with its central prang adorned in beautiful ceramic mosaics. You can catch a water taxi from near Wat Pho to Wat Arun for about 5 baht.

You can climb up the central prang for incredible views of the river and the city. The temple is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and the entrance fee is around 100 Thai Baht for foreign visitors.

The best time for photos of Wat Arun is around sunrise and sunset. In the evening, the temple is lit with lights and makes a nice backdrop for a river cruise.

8. Take a Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River

A dinner river cruise along the bustling Chao Phraya River can be a really fun experience when visiting Bangkok. It offers a unique way to explore the city while indulging in a delicious meal.

As you glide along the river, you’ll get the chance to see some of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks illuminated at night. During a cruise, you’ll most likely pass by prominent attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and the majestic Rama VIII Bridge. The illuminated temples, busy river traffic, and city skyline create a magical atmosphere.

The dinner cruises typically feature a decent buffet or set menu, offering a variety of Thai and international dishes to suit most tastes. You can savor the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine while enjoying live music and entertainment on board. ThisChao Phraya River Cruise tourcranks out 80s and 90s tunes all night long.

9. Ride in a tuk tuk

Riding in a tuk tuk is a ubiquitous thing to do in Bangkok.Get ready for a fast ride with a few bumps, flashing lights and a face full of fumes.

Tip: Unlike taxis, there is no meter. Determine the pricebeforegetting into the tuk tuk.

Bartering is acceptable and it’s a good idea to know about how much your ride should cost so you know if you’re getting ripped off. Ask your hotel/hostel staff what an acceptable rate should be.

10. Try street food in Chinatown

One of the main reasons to go to Chinatown is for the food. Amidst a sea of people and tuk tuks, you can find endless food stalls, serving up everything here from ice cream to bird nest soup to the incredibly popular Yaowarat Toasted Bread. (We’ve never seen so many people line up for bread before, so it must be good! The line was insane when we were there, so we didn’t try it this time.)

An interesting dish to try in Chinatown:We tried a hot ginger soup with rice balls filled with sweet sesame paste which was very good. It’s a nice dish to have at the end of the night and settle your stomach.

How to do it yourself:

Hop in a tuk tuk and get as close as you can to Chinatown. There is always traffic around this area, especially at night, so you may have to get out early and walk a bit. Browse the food stalls and find one that is busy (that’s how you know it’s good!). Sit down on a plastic chair and enjoy!

Related:Check out our2-Week Thailand Island Hopping Itineraryto get the best of Bangkok and the Thai islands all in one trip!

11. Wander through the Pak Khlong Flower Market

While we were told the Pak Khlong Flower Market may not be what it used to be like, it’s still an interesting place to wander through and be amongst (mainly) locals. This market is open 24 hours a day, and contrary to what you might think, the busiest time is at night.

Fun fact:Flower prices are kind of like the stock market and they fluctuate depending on demand and season. But even when they are at their peak, exotic flowers like orchids can be found for a fraction of the price you’d find them in Western countries.

How to do it yourself:

Stroll through the stalls of flowers and pick one for your sweetie. The Pak Khlong Flower Market is only 2 km west of Chinatown, so you can aim to visit both in the same night.

12. Get a healthy dose of green space at Lumpini Park

Bangkok is chaotic – there’s no doubt about it. If you want to escape the concrete and get a little dose of green without leaving the city, Lumpini Park (also Lumphini Park) is your best bet.

Take a stroll and you’ll notice many locals doing the same. You might even witness one of the daily aerobic classes taking place near the southwest entrance.

How to do it yourself:

Take the Skytrain toSala Daeng stationand walk northeast until you reach the intersection. The park is right across the street; look for the large King Rama VI Monument.

If you have more time: Spend the day at Bang Kachao Park

Bang Kachao Park is a bit harder to get to and would take the better part of a day, but we’ve heard it’s a great escape from the city. You can even rent bikes here and find cute cafes along the way.

13. Experience MBK Center, Bangkok’s MEGA mall

Bangkok is known for multi-level malls that boast 4-D movies, hip restaurants and luxury brands. But if you find shopping to be more torture than pleasure, we think there may be a mall even you would enjoy in Bangkok.

TheMBK Center, located just off the National Stadium BTS Station, is a sight to see. There are some “normal” stores like you’d expect to find in a mall, but the 2nd and 3rd floors are more like a market. You can find just about every type of electronic accessory you can dream up, and bartering is acceptable.

Tip: Avoid the jewelry stalls in MBK, as it is hard to really know their authenticity.

MBK is far from the only mall in Bangkok. There are shopping centers for all types of people — from the super luxuriousSiam Paragon Mallto all sorts of outlet malls,shopping in Bangkokis quite the experience.

How to do it yourself:

Get off the Bangkok Skytrain at the National Stadium station and follow the signs to MBK Center.

14. Tour the Jim Thompson House

Truthfully, we had no idea what to expect when we arrived at the entrance of theJim Thompson House, this massive complex set back in a quiet neighborhood near the National Stadium.

With lush tropical gardens and pools filled with koi fish, there is an overwhelming aura of tranquility that’ll make you feel as if you’ve been transported out of Bangkok’s bustling city limits.

Jim Thompson was an American that famously rejuvenated the Thai silk industry. Being a former architect, he built his home in true Thai style. Today, his stunning home is a museum that you can tour for a small fee.

Though Thompson disappeared mysteriously, the tour only briefly mentions this fact, and focuses more on the history of the architecture and the artifacts displayed around the home. We found it to be an interesting and worthwhile visit during our time in Bangkok.

How to do it yourself:

From the National Stadium BTS station, walk west one block until Kasem San 2 Alley and turn right. Walk until the end of the street and the Jim Thompson house will be on your left.

Entrance fee:Tours leave every 10 minutes and cost 200 baht per person (100 baht for ages 10-22 and free for those under 10 years old). They last 35 minutes and bring you through the residence that was once home to American expat and silk trader, Jim Thompson.

15. Eat & shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Market is an experience to behold. Wander through the endless maze of vendors selling everything from pottery to clothing to furniture, and don’t forget to order lunch (and a few snacks too!) from one of the many food stalls.

Tip: If you’re traveling with a companion, consider splitting a few dishes so you can try a few different things!

How to do it yourself:

The weekend market is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Head toMo Chit BTS Skytrainstation or theChatuchak Park Metro stationand follow the crowds south and you’ll walk right into the market on the right.

16. See a Muay Thai match for free

Apparently, Bangkok is THE place to watch authentic Muay Thai fights. We’ve read that the fights elsewhere in the country are watered-down versions made mostly for tourists.

But don’t shell out your baht for tickets sold on Khao San Road.If you’re lucky enough to be in Bangkok on a Sunday, you have the opportunity to see a super authentic Muay Thai match… for FREE.

Channel 7 is a television station that broadcasts live fights every Sunday at 2 p.m. and every third Wednesday of the month at noon, and it’s free to the public.

在座的大多数人都是当地人– predominantly men – and it’s pretty interesting to watch them as they make bets on the fighters. All in all, this is a really special and authentic experience in Bangkok.

How to do it yourself:

Located near the Chatuchak Weekend Market (see above), you can walk to the Channel 7 building in about 20-30 minutes.

The program starts at 2 p.m. (the fights don’t start until 2:15), but plan on arriving around 1:30 p.m., as the arena fills up quickly. (We arrived at 1:45 and felt as if we should have been a bit earlier. But then again, too early would mean lots of sitting around.)

Helpful things to know:

• There is a metal detector near the entrance, and someone will look in your bag before ushering you inside the arena.
• There is a dedicated section for “foreigner seating”, and you will be directed here (opposite the entrance).
• There is no bathroom easily accessible inside the arena, so be sure to go before you enter. It’s not easy to leave during the matches, so wait until between matches to leave.
• There are several matches, starting with young fighters, and progressing in age. Each match has 5 rounds, and lasts about 20-30 minutes in total. We left after the third match, and were there for roughly 2.5 hours in total.

17. Cruise on a Motorcycle taxi

Are you traveling around Bangkok solo? Need to get somewhere fast? Take a motorbike taxi!

There are motorbike taxi stands on nearly every corner in Bangkok. You’ll find small groups of people (typically men) standing or sitting near their motorbikes wearing orange vests.

Similar to hopping on a tuk tuk, you’ll agree on a price before getting a ride. It’s best to ask your hotel or Thai friends how much a typical ride would cost.

Once the price is set, hop on the back of the bike, put on a helmet (please wear a helmet always in Thailand), and hang on for the ride!

18. Take a Thai Cooking Class

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you know that we LOVE to eat. Anything and Everything. No exaggeration.

And you probably also know that we are constantly raving abouttaking cooking classes in other countries. We wholeheartedly believe that there are few ways to learn more about a culture than through its cuisine.

我们没有personally done a cooking class in Bangkok, but from browsingCookly, there are some pretty incredible classes with rave reviews. If we were traveling through Bangkok, we’dsign up for this class.

In a typical Thai cooking class, you’ll first go to the market to get all the ingredients to bring back to a local’s home. The teacher or head chef will then teach you about each ingredient and how they work together in each dish.

By the end of class, you will have helped make a Thai meal and you get to enjoy it as well. We have always left cooking classes with full bellies.

Psst! When you’re booking be sure to check outCookly’s websitewhere they compare cooking schools and sometimes have cheaper prices.

19. Get a Thai massage

华体会最新登录网站去泰国不沉溺于泰国massage (or seven!) would be crazy. We would highly recommend getting a Thai massage in Bangkok, or any other city you travel to in Thailand. And when you can find hour-long massages for $6-10 USD, why not get a couple?!

You won’t have to wander far before you hear“massage, massage”being called after you. Our advice would be not to go in the first place you see.

There are plenty of amazing massage places in Bangkok, but there are just as many (if not more!) sub-par establishments. We’d recommend to checking Google reviews to find the best one near you.

While most of the massage places listed above are very budget-friendly, there are certainly higher-end massage parlors where the prices (and facilities) will be closer to what you’d pay in Western countries. You’ll have to do a little comparing to decide what’s best for your budget.

Good to know: At some of the cheaper places, you may be in a communal room with other guests.

So what do you wear to a massage in Thailand? In most massage parlors in Bangkok, you will be given clothes to change into. They are typically a baggy cotton one-size-fits-all pants and shirts. For some treatments — like an oil massage, for instance — you will be given disposable underwear and will be nude.

Good to know: Traditional Thai massages involve a lot of cracking and stretching, and can leave some people sore. If you don’t think you’ll like this “hands-on” massage, try a “Neck, Back, and Shoulder Massage” or a foot massage instead. They are quite a bit tamer.

20. Eat Street Food

Thailand has some of the best street food in the world and Bangkok is no exception. The best spots to look for street food are at any of Bangkok’s markets.

You’ll find everything from super cheap Pad Thai being cooked in a gigantic wok to grilled meat skewers to noodle soups. If you’re traveling with a partner, order a few different dishes so you can sample them all!

Depending on the location, street food is sometimes served take-away style, but if there are plastic chairs nearby then you can have your meal there.

21. Take a ride on the SkyTrain in Bangkok

22. Try All the Tropical Fruits!

Visit the local markets and you’ll see all sorts of colorful fruits you’ve likely never seen before. I made it my mission to search for unfamiliar fruits and buy them. Fresh produce is really cheap in Thailand (from the local markets), so there’s really no risk!

It would be nearly impossible to list all the fruits you’ll find in Bangkok, but here are some of my favorites that you should definitely try:

• Mangosteen (my absolute favorite!)
• Rambutan
• Plum Mangos
• Custard Apple
• Dragonfruit
• Small Bananas
• Lychee

Oh, and while they’re probably not unfamiliar, if you like papaya, pineapple and mangos, be sure to try a few while in Thailand, as they’re likely more fresh and delicious than the imported ones we get in Western countries.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try the smelliest fruit in the world: Durian. As “King of Fruits” it is liked by many but if you are like us, then you’d agree it is downright nasty.

You’ll be able to smell it from a mile away and it is not allowed in public transportation or taxis because of its putrid stench.

But when in Bangkok, you might as well try it. Buy a small piece at the market and share it with your friends, just have some other tastier fruits ready to cure your aftertaste.

23. Sip on cocktails at a Bangkok rooftop bar

Sip on cocktails while overlooking…Okay, I’ve gotta interrupt.We are actually torn about whether this activity makes the cut.

Lots of other blogs out there will claim that going to one of Bangkok’s famed rooftop bars is a “must” in the City of Angels.

But in our opinion, if you pass on this one, we don’t think your time in Bangkok would be incomplete. While it can certainly be a cool experience, it is NOT cheap and in our opinion didn’t quite live up to the hype it receives.

How to do it yourself:

We wrote about our experience at Sky Bar in detail, so you can determine if it’s worth it to fit into your time in Bangkok. Plus, this article lays out exactlywhat to expect at the Sky Bar– from what to wear to how much your drinks will cost. We even have afew cheaper alternative rooftop barsfor those traveling on a budget.

Next Read:Did you know Thailand is a great place to teach English? Find out how to get certified toteach English abroad.

24. Visit Koh Kret Pottery Village and Brewery

Escape the city to the unique little island ofKoh Kretfor some shopping and brews. Situated just north of Bangkok in the middle of the Chao Praya River, Koh Kret is just 30 minutes outside of Bangkok and definitely worth the half-day trip.

Experience the slower pace of life outside of Bangkok as you explore the pottery village, shop at the riverside market or sip a cold craft brew fromChit Beer.

As you disembark the ferry pier, you’ll want to start making your way around Koh Kret in a counterclockwise direction, starting with the riverside weekend market.

Veer off from the market down some of the small alleyways to find the homemade pottery business —usually just an eldery person sitting at a pottery wheel honing their craft.

市场后,顺着小路带你around the rest of the island. The entire route is just 5 km and you can walk it or rent bicycles for around 100 Baht ($4 USD). On the route you’ll find small coffee shops, convenience stores and Buddhist temples. You’ll pass by community farms and traditional stilt houses built by the riverside.

Once you’ve made your way around the island, be sure to drop by Chit Beer for a cold one before making your way back to Bangkok.

How to do it yourself:There are several ways to get to Koh Kret from Bangkok.

• By boat:Take the Chao Praya Express from Saphan Taksin Pier to the last stop at Nonthaburi Pier. From the pier, you can take a longtail boat to Koh Kret. However, these boats are often overpriced and aimed at taking advantage of tourists. The other option is to take a taxi from Nonthaburi Pier to Koh Kret, which will cost you less than 100 THB ($3 USD).
• By taxi:You can take a taxi directly to Koh Kret from Bangkok for about 300 Baht. The ride will take about 30 minutes and we recommended this option for your return home after a day of exploring.
• By Bus:Routes 104 and 166 will take to Koh Kret from Bangkok. However, while these buses are cheap, they are slow, cramped and have no AC onboard.

25. Eat Michelin Star street food

A Michelin Star and street food… Bet you never thought you’d hear those two phrases in a sentence. Am I right?

If you don’t believe us, just check out the first episode ofNetflix’s “Street Food: Asia” series. You’ll learn the story behind street food chef Jay Fai’s ingenuitive cuisine that boasts a Michelin Star!

Situated in the Phra Nakhon area of Bangkok on Maha Chai Road is where you’ll find her street-side eatery,Raan Jay Fai, along with about 100 hopeful foodies queued up around the block. That’s the kind of hype you can expect from the first-ever Michelin-starred street food.

Supinya Junsuta, the chef-owner fondly known as “Jay Fai,” made the spot famous with her signaturekhai jeaw poo(crab omelet),poo phad phong karee(stir-fried crab made with curry), and unique spin on Thai dishes such as Tom Yum soup.

How to do it yourself:It is possible to get a reservation by emailingjayfaibangok@gmail.comwell in advance (at least 3 months ahead of your trip).

然而,大多数人会签署试试运气p for a walk-in. Just know you’ll have to get there early… like really early. The restaurant opens at 2 p.m. and people who arrived at 9 or 10 a.m. say they were too late. It seems if you want to guarantee yourself a table, arriving by 7:30 a.m. should do the trick.

注意:周杰伦Fai的不是像普通定价street food —it’s more along the lines of fine dining (see Michelle’s example. Some give it rave reviews while others claim it’s entirely overrated, so you’ll have to be your own judge.

26. Scope out the city’s street art scene

Street art has been slowly emerging in Bangkok over the past decade, in large part due to the Bukruk Urban Arts Festival. The Bukruk Urban Arts Festival brought together some of the best street artists from all over the world to transform the streets of Bangkok in 2014 and again in 2016.

The festivals not only put Bangkok on the map as a prominent street art destination but attracted locals and tourists alike to areas of the city that may have otherwise not been visited.

The two most prominent neighborhoods for street art in Bangkok areBangrak and Chalerm La Park– the sites of the two festivals.

However, most of the art is pretty spread out and scattered throughout different neighborhoods. The best way to see it is by scoping it out while doing other activities in the same areas.

Check out thisstreet art guide to Bangkokand interview with one of the local artists for more information and a map of some of the best works.

27. Bangkok National Museum

If you’re looking to up your Thai history and art knowledge, The Bangkok National Museum would be a worthwhile stop. It is close to the Grand Palace so you could pair those stops together on the same day.

Inside the museum, there is an amazing collection of artifacts like sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and even royal regalia.

It’s open between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. The entrance fee for foreigners is 200 baht.

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Best Day Trips from Bangkok

While there’s plenty to do within the city itself, there are also many options forday trips near Bangkok.

28. Visit Ayutthaya

Just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a city full of ancient ruins and history. This was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and is a fantastic addition to any Thailand itinerary.

We’d suggest spending a night there so you can fully take advantage of all Ayutthaya has to offer: Explore the floating market, rent a bicycle to bring you past all the ancient ruins (including the Insta-famous “head in the tree”), watch sunset in front of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and sample all the local flavors at the night market for super cheap!

But if you’re short on time and can’t spare a night, you can certainly travel to Ayutthaya as a day trip. You can easily get to Ayutthaya by catching a shuttle van near Victory Monument. The ride takes just over an hour and is very inexpensive.

29. Travel to Kanchanaburi

While we’d recommend spending more than just a day, visiting Kanchanaburi can be easily done from Bangkok. Roughly 2 – 2.5 hours from Bangkok, this town is most well-known for the famous “Bridge over the River Kwai”.

While there, don’t miss dinner atBlue Rice Restaurant. Located right across the river with a stunning view, this Thai fusion restaurant will wow even the snobbiest foodie.

Our recommendation would actually be to spend a long weekend in Kanchanaburi and combine it with trips to the Erawan Falls National Park and ElephantsWorld (below).

How to get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok:

You can take the train from Bangkok to the city of Kanchanaburi.Trains leave twice daily – one at 7:50 a.m. and the other at 1:55 p.m.It’s about a 3-hour ride from the Thonburi Railway station on the west side of Bangkok.

Tip: Have the staff at your guesthouse write the train station name and address in Thai. Many taxi drivers we talked to were very confused, even though it’s not a far ride from the center of town.

Another option is tobook a bus ride from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi提前。You’ll have many more options for timing, however the bus does take slightly longer at 3 hours and 20 minutes from station to station.

Related:We were named one of theTop Thailand Travel Blogs on the Web.

30. Hike around Erawan Falls National Park

At 300 baht, the entrance fee for foreigners to Erawan National Park seems steep, but we found it to be completely worth the price.

When you enter the park, you’ll find 7-layers of crystal clear water with pools you can splash around in, and dirt paths to explore.The waterfalls furthest from the entrance close early, so hike all the way to the seventh and work your way back to the start. The best waterfalls for swimming are #2, #4, #5 and #7.

The last bus of the day leaves at 4 p.m., so if you hire a driver, you’ll be able to explore the park after the crowds leave until it closes at 6 p.m.

How to get to Erawan Falls National Park:

Take the morning train (see above) orbook a bus ridefrom Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.

Buses from Kanchanaburi to the National Park run infrequently and take 2 hours to get to the falls, so if you’re arriving by morning train, it is a better option to hire a songthaew driver (shared taxi pickup truck with benches in the back).

The ride will take 45-60 minutes and cost 1,200 baht for a round trip. We gathered a group from our hotel so we could split the cost.

31. Hang out with elephants at ElephantsWorld Sanctuary

You can probably imagine it is quite a popular activity for tourists to encounter elephants while in Thailand. There are countless agencies that sell packages promising an unforgettable experience with these gentle giants.But beware!Many excursions that involve elephants in Thailand treat the animals with incredible cruelty.

ElephantsWorld Sanctuaryis an exception. With the company motto of “They used to work for us, and now we work for them,” ElephantsWorld is a retirement community of sorts. Most of the elephants there are rescued from the trekking industry, and some even carry the scars of their past work.

On your visit, you’ll feed the elephants, make food for them, help with other projects around the grounds, and help bathe them in a nearby river.You’ll also learn about the many ways these animals have been – and continue to be – mistreated and exploited from tourism throughout the country.

Sidenote:Do some of your ownresearch on the subject, and learn more about the benefits of visiting an elephant sanctuary instead of participating in a trek. If you are in the north of the country, Elephant Nature Park located near Chiang Mai also has a great reputation.

How to get there:

To visit ElephantsWorld you need to make areservation online提前。建议提前预订, especially if you are visiting Thailand during the holiday season.

They offer pick-up and drop-off from the bus station in Kanchanaburi, so you’ll need to make your way there from Bangkok (see above directions).

Once you’ve had your fun with the elephants and headed back to the bus station in Kanchanaburi. You can buy your tickets back to Bangkok at the station, or you canbook them ahead of time online here.

32. Explore Khao Yai National Park

With plenty of hiking and biking trails, waterfalls and a variety of wildlife, this national park is roughly 3 hours from Bangkok and is a great getaway if you’re looking to escape the city.

33. Experience the Maeklong Railway Market

Located 80 kilometers outside of Bangkok, this unique market is built around a railroad that is still active. As you browse the selection of fresh fruits and traditional sweets, you’ll hear a rumble in the distance.

Before you even see the train, vendors will pick up their goods and move them out of the way, allowing it to pass.

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3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary

Oftentimes we get asked how long to spend in the city. “Can you do Bangkok in 3 days?” is a question we hear continuously.

If you only have a few days in Bangkok, here’s an easy-to-follow itinerary that’ll show you the best things to do in Bangkok in a short time period!Follow this guide, and you’ll cross off most of the fun activities we recommended above in just 72 hours!

Day 1:Grand Palace & food tour

Take a Taxi Boat to theGrand Palaceand exploreWat Pho(Reclining Buddha). At night, join theExpique tuk tuk adventureor otherfood tours in Bangkok, seeing theFlower MarketandChinatown.

Day 2:Floating market, afternoon of exploring & local night market

Start your morning at theKhlong Lat Mayom Floating Market. When you’re finished, travel back to downtown and tour theJim Thompson Museum. Get lost in nearbyMBK Malland when you’ve had enough shopping, relax inLumpini Park.

Try the best-smelling street food your nose can find for dinner, have drinks above the city atSky Bar(if it’s appealing to you!). If you’re still up for more exploring, head toTalad Rot Fai Night Marketfor a local experience!

Day 3:Markets, Muay Thai & people watching

Visit theChatuchak Weekend Marketand then go to a SundayMuay Thai fightfor free. At night, hit upKhao San Roadfor some good people-watching and live music.

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Where to Stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is HUGE! There are so many neighborhoods to choose from it can be a little overwhelming. We have stayed in all three of these areas before and all are good, it just depends where you want to call home base for a few days. We have hand-selected these hotels for you so go ahead and take a peek, I think you’ll like what you see.

Siam Area Bangkok:close to malls & public transport

Luxury Hotel –InterContinental Bangkok– Sip on champagne while overlooking the skyline of Bangkok in this well-located 5-star hotel. Enjoy the on-site spa and 24-hour fitness center as well as the 5 different dining options available.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Mid-range: Couples Stay–Siam @ Siam Design Hotel Bangkok– Stylish and trendy, this designer hotel is located within walking distance to the Siam BTS Skytrain. Great for those who are looking to do some shopping while visiting Bangkok.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Budget: Social Atmosphere–Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel– Fast WiFi and clean rooms, both private and dorms available. Close to cheap food options.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Historic Center/Khao San Road Bangkok:near sight-seeing

Luxury Hotel –Praya Palazzo Hotel– Arrive to this historic mansion by a traditional wooden barge and be greeted with the best Thai comforts. Each room is well decorated and there is an outdoor pool and fine dining.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Mid-range: Couples Stay –Navalai RiverResort– Relax in this boutique hotel that overlooks the Chao Phraya River and is within walking distance to the Grand Palace. Take a dip in the rooftop pool and grab a bite in the on-site restaurant. Great place for couples exploring Bangkok for the first time.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Budget: Social Atmosphere –Here Hostel Bangkok– Stylish and inviting, this hostel has a great common space with on-site restaurant. Very convenient location with dorms and private rooms available. Oh, and did we mention there is a slide!

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Silom Area Bangkok:near Chinatown and easy access to the river

Luxury Hotel –Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel– Enjoy plush suites, indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center and 11 dining options in this 5-star luxury hotel. Check out the skyline views on the rooftop chipping and putting golf green.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Mid-range: Couples Stay –Pullman Bangkok Hotel G– This ultra-modern 38-story hotel has all the luxurious amenities but at a reasonable price. Relax in the outdoor pool, get a massage at the spa, or dine in the on-site restaurant.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

Budget: Social Atmosphere –Silom SPACE Hostel– Highly rated and close to the night markets, this spacious hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with a large common area to meet other travelers.

Check prices onAgoda.comandBooking.com.

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Bangkok Travel Guide

Below are some helpful tips and pieces of advice to make the most of your time in Bangkok. Find out how to navigate the public transportation system, what to eat and what scams to look out for.This is basically everything you need to know about traveling in Bangkok!

Where to Eat in Bangkok

findin曼谷最大的乐趣之一g street stalls and ordering a meal that’s cooked up over a fire. There are endless food stalls and plenty of hole-in-the-wall shops to find around every corner.

I would recommend asking your hotel or hostel to point you in the direction of the closet market or best small restaurant. You could even ask the staff where they eat for lunch.

Or start off your trip withbooking a cooking class! After the class, you’ll know what to order throughout the rest of your travels. We love taking cooking classes because you learn so much of about a culture through its food, and it’s pretty delicious learning experience.

Vegetarian in Thailand?

Don’t worry, there are plenty of amazing vegetarian andvegan restaurants in Bangkok.

Traditional Thai dishes often have meat and are cooked with non-veg ingredients like fish sauce, lard or oyster sauce. Thankfully, there are alternatives, like mushroom sauce and soy sauce. It is helpful to learn how to say“I’d like vegetarian food”in Thai.

“A-harn mang-sow-ee-rat” = vegetarian food

“A-harn Jey” = vegan food

• “a harn”translates to food
• “mang-sow-ee-rat”means no meat, but can include eggs and dairy
• “jey”is a word of Chinese origin and translates to vegan (no meat and no animal products). It also excludes onion, garlic and chili.

Tip: Before leaving the Wi-Fi of your hotel, load your Google Maps and star any locations you plan to visit. Even if you don’t have cell service, you will be able to track your location via GPS and see your locations of interest. The Skytrain station names are on Google Maps, so you can easily navigate the public transportation.

Heading out of Bangkok to another Thai Destination? We typically book your buses or trains through12go.asia. They have the best deals and show all the routes whether you’re looking for a bus, train, plane, or ferry.

How to get a Thai SIM card

Getting cell service anywhere in Asia is relatively easy if you have an unlocked phone with access to your SIM card. Cell service is cheap and good throughout Thailand.

NOTE:Buy a Thai SIM Card is still a great option, however smartphones have advanced since we first wrote this article and now you can download an eSIM on new smartphone models. Find out if your phone is compatible andhow to get an eSIM for traveling.

Buying a Thai SIM card will only cost a couple hundred baht, depending on how long you need it for, and the service plans are very affordable, no matter which provider you choose.

Here are the 3 cell phone networks in Thailand:

1) AIS

• best overall coverage (covers rural areas better than the other providers)
• slower download speeds

2) dtac

• decent coverage and decent Internet speed (supposedly “in between” AIS and TrueMove for both categories)

3) TrueMove

• fastest Internet speeds
• poor coverage in some rural areas (they have improved significantly in recent years and we personally haven’t had many issues)

The provider we chose was TrueMove (it’s like the Verizon of Thailand). You can pick up SIM cards at most 7-11’s, but you can also go into a TrueMove store and have the staff set it up for you.

There are many different 4G plans ranging from 7 days to a year. While we were staying in Thailand for 3 months we got amonth-by-month 4G plan that costs 350 baht ($10.47 USD) for 10 GB of dataand 200 minutes of calling. Pretty sweet, huh? Beats plans in the US any day!

Good to know:If you purchase your SIM card at the airport, you will have access to the “tourist plans”. If you want different package options, you’ll need to buy it outside of the airport.

提示:你会得到更好的交易aut的SIM卡horized dealers (7-11s and other convenience stores – just look for the service logo in the windows) than you will at the airport. However, if you are in a hurry to get service, the airport has kiosks for all the providers just past baggage claim.

Scams to Avoid in Bangkok

Just like in any big city, scams can happen. It is good to be aware of some of the common scams so you can avoid them.

Tuk Tuk:Determine a pricebeforegetting into a tuk tuk, as there is no meter. And once you’re on your way, don’t let the driver take you anywhere other than your intended destination. Some tuk tuk drivers may offer to take you to souvenir shops with “the best deals”, but they will make a commission on your sale.

Taxi:Be sure to tell the taxi driver you want to use the meter. Often times when a foreigner gets in their car, they will try to set a rate that is much higher than the meter would be.

Grand Palace:As described above, there are some people that will try to tell you the Grand Palace is closed for a religious ceremony (or for other reasons). They will try to take you in their tuk tuk to other parts of the city. Ignore them and keep walking.

Purse:Just like in many big cities, be wary of wearing a cross-body purse. Be sure to hold onto it, as letting it fall at your side can leave it vulnerable to pickpockets in crowds, or even thieves on passing motorbikes.

Incorrect Change:When paying for something with a large bill (especially the 1,000 baht), make sure you get the correct change. It shouldn’t be a problem at established stores, but sometimes street vendors will claim you gave them a 100 baht bill. Or they may hand you incorrect change and hope you’re unfamiliar with the currency and won’t notice.

Are you planning a trip to Thailand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out ourUltimate Thailand Travel Guidefor all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Chiang Mai Thailand
• How to Travel Sustainably in Thailand and Why You Should Care
• Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalows Travel Guide

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We want to hear from you!

Are you traveling to Bangkok? Do you have more questions? Or is Bangkok like your second home and you’d like to share your favorite spot in the city? Please use the comments below and we will respond as quickly as we can.