Top Bangkok Attractions

One of the biggest challenges you will face when visiting Bangkok is deciding exactly where to go and what to do. The city has plenty to offer, however, this means that the choices can be overwhelming! Below we have summarised what we believe are a few of the top attractions.

The Grand Palace

Temples and Palaces are Bangkok’s premiere tourist spots, the most popular of which is the Grand Palace. Built in 1782, the Palace was the Royal residence for many generations. It is still used today for important ceremonies and accommodates Heads of State when they visit Thailand. There are several daily tours available in either the morning or afternoon, so be sure not to miss out!

Other Palaces and Temples to visit include – Wat Pho (located on the Grand Palace grounds), Wat Arun, Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) and Wat Suthat.

River Cruises

If you are looking to explore the city in more of a peaceful setting, then why not take a river cruise? There are several that travel along the Chao Phraya river. Prices and cruises can differ quite dramatically so be sure to do your research beforehand.

Some companies offer cruises along the river for as little as 20 Baht ($1 USD). If it’s something a bit nicer you are looking for, there are also overnight and dinner cruises available. The cruises can last anywhere between 2 hours and several days depending on the experience you are looking for.

Floating Markets

As well as markets similar to Chatuchak, there are also several floating markets along the river. The most popular are Khlong Lat Mayom and Taling Chan, we would advise arriving early to these if you are not a fan of huge crowds.

Taling Chan is located around 12km from downtown Bangkok and is home to a small floating market, which also has a larger market attached to it. It is open on weekends selling a mixture of local fruits, vegetables and fish, there is also live traditional Thai music. Although you may find it difficult to pick up a souvenir for a loved one, it is a great way to explore the Thai way of life, away from the busy streets of downtown Bangkok.

Khlong Lat Mayom is also a great way to experience the traditions of South East Asia. The two markets are relatively close to one another so we recommend taking a look at both. Take a taxi with a meter or ask the concierge at your hotel how much you should expect to pay to get there.

Chinatown

Like most capitals around the world, Bangkok has a Chinatown. It is situated close to the Chao Phraya river and is a 1km strip filled with hundreds of food vendors lining the streets. There are plenty of opportunities to sample local and Chinese cuisine that may prove difficult to find anywhere else. Chinatown comes alive during Chinese New Year so make sure you venture down there if your trip coincides. It can get extremely busy here so be prepared!

Have any questions on what to do in Bangkok? Email us at info@chatuchakmarket.org.

Image Credit: Flickr- Tina_Sauwens