๐ 20 Best Things to do in Bangkok: The Ultimate Guide
Bangkok is a city of vibrant contrasts where golden temples sit beside bustling street markets, luxury malls rise above historic neighborhoods, and ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern energy. Whether you’re here for the food, culture, shopping, nightlife, or spiritual serenity, the Thai capital has something for every kind of traveler.
This curated list of the 20 Best Things to do in Bangkok will guide you through the city’s most essential experiences, from iconic landmarks and local favorites to hidden gems and unforgettable day trips.
1. ๐ Visit Bangkok’s Temples: Grand Palace, Wat Pho & Wat Arun
These three temples are Bangkokโs most important cultural and architectural landmarks. The Grand Palace is a breathtaking former royal residence, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew): Thailandโs most sacred temple. Nearby, Wat Pho houses the massive gold-plated Reclining Buddha and is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Across the river, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) dazzles with its intricate porcelain-covered spires, especially stunning at sunset. Read 6 Must-Visit Temples in Bangkok.
๐ Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
๐ Open daily 8:30 AM โ 3:30 PM.
๐ธ Entrance fee: 500 THB (Wat Phra Kaew + Queen Sirikit Museum included)
๐ Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
๐ Wat Arun
๐ Open daily 8:00 AM โ 6:00 PM.
๐ธ Entrance fee: 100 THB
๐ 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
๐ Wat Pho
๐ Open daily 8:00 AM โ 6:30 PM.
๐ธ Entrance fee: 200 THB (includes a free bottle of water)
๐ 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
๐ Dress modestly: Shoulders and knees must be covered, especially at the Grand Palace. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance.
๐ Go early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
๐ Use the river ferry to cross between Wat Pho and Wat Arun, itโs cheap (~5 THB) and scenic.
๐ Watch out for scams near the Grand Palace, if someone says it’s โclosed,โ politely walk on.
๐ Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and symbolism of the temples.
2. ๐๏ธ Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest open-air markets in the world, with over 8,000 stalls spread across 27 sections. Itโs a must-visit for shopaholics, foodies, and culture lovers, offering everything from trendy clothes, antiques, handmade crafts, and home dรฉcor to pets and exotic plants. Itโs also a great place to sample authentic Thai street food and soak in the local vibe.
๐ Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM โ 6:00 PM, Friday (wholesale only): ~6:00 PM โ midnight.
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
๐ Go early (around 9โ10 AM) to avoid the crowds and heat.
๐ Bring cash, most stalls donโt accept cards.
๐ Use Gate 1 (BTS Mo Chit) or Gate 2 (MRT Kamphaeng Phet) for the most direct access.
๐ Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes.
๐ Haggle politely, many vendors are open to bargaining, especially for bulk purchases.
3. ๐ Khao San Road
Khao San Road is Bangkokโs legendary backpacker hub, a short street packed with bars, street food, hostels, shops, and lively chaos. Itโs a rite of passage for budget travelers, known for its cheap drinks, loud music, night vendors, and quirky energy. Whether youโre after a tattoo, a scorpion-on-a-stick, or just some people-watching with a cold Chang beer in hand, Khao San is the place to soak in the more carefree, unfiltered side of Bangkok nightlife.
๐ Shops & cafรฉs: 10:00 AM โ late
๐ป Bars & nightlife: Peak hours from 7:00 PM โ 2:00 AM (Some bars may stay open later unofficially.)
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ Best time to visit is after sunset when the street comes alive with neon lights and music.
๐ Nearby Rambuttri Alley offers a more relaxed, bohemian alternative.
๐ Be cautious of overpriced tuk-tuks and โping pong showโ scams, stick to metered taxis or ride-hailing apps.
๐ Avoid flashy valuables, itโs a crowded, party-heavy area.
๐ Stay nearby if you want to enjoy the nightlife but head out early for quieter rest.
4. ๐ฝ๏ธ Bangkok Night Markets (Jodd Fairs, Talad Rot Fai)
Bangkok’s night markets are a vibrant blend of street food, shopping, and local culture, perfect for evening adventures. Markets like Jodd Fairs (near Central Rama 9) are known for trendy eats, clothes, and chill hangouts, while Talad Rot Fai (Train Market), located in Srinakarin, is loved for its retro vibe, antiques, and classic cars. Whether youโre hungry, hunting for vintage finds, or just people-watching, these markets offer a lively and authentic Bangkok experience.
๐ Jodd Fairs (Rama 9 & DanNeramit): Daily, 4:00 PM โ 11:00 PM
๐ Phahonyothin Rd, Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
๐ Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin: ThursdayโSunday, 5:00 PM โ midnight
๐ 1, 4 Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250, Thailand
(Rot Fai markets sometimes moves, so check current locations if planning ahead.)
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ Go after 6 PM when most stalls are fully open and the atmosphere is buzzing.
๐ Bring cash, many vendors are cash-only.
๐ Wear comfortable shoes, youโll be walking a lot.
๐ Come hungry: try Thai grilled squid, mango sticky rice, milk tea, and local desserts.
๐ Jodd Fairs is BTS/MRT accessible, while Rot Fai Srinakarin is easier by taxi or Grab.
5. โฉ๏ธ Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
Bangkokโs Chinatown is one of the oldest and liveliest neighborhoods in the city, bursting with history, culture, and incredible street food. By day, itโs a maze of gold shops, herbal medicine stores, temples, and chaotic markets. By night, Yaowarat Road transforms into a neon-lit food paradise, famous for roast duck, dim sum, oyster omelets, mango sticky rice, and more. It’s a must-visit for foodies and anyone looking to explore Bangkokโs Chinese-Thai heritage.
๐ Shops: 10:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
๐ Street food/night stalls: 5:00 PM โ late (around midnight). Best time to visit is between 6:00โ10:00 PM for food and atmosphere.
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ PGR5+4XP, Yaowarat Rd, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khet Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
๐ Start at Wat Mangkon MRT Station and walk toward Yaowarat Road for the full experience.
๐ Visit Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, a major Chinese-Buddhist temple nearby.
๐ Bring cash and small bills, most vendors donโt take cards.
๐ Expect long queues at famous stalls like T&K Seafood or Nai Ek Roll Noodle, theyโre worth the wait.
๐ Go on weekends or during festivals like Chinese New Year or Vegetarian Festival for extra energy and entertainment.
6. ๐ณ๏ธ Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise
A Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise is one of the most scenic and romantic ways to experience Bangkok by night. As you glide along the “River of Kings,” you’ll enjoy illuminated views of iconic landmarks like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Rama VIII Bridge, all while dining on Thai or international cuisine. Itโs a relaxing escape from the city chaos, perfect for couples, families, or first-time visitors looking to see Bangkok from a new perspective.
๐ Most cruises depart between 6:30 PM โ 7:30 PM and last about 1.5โ2 hours.
๐ธ Prices range from 800โ2,000 THB per person, depending on the cruise company, meal type (buffet or set dinner), and seating (air-con or open deck). Popular options include:
– Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
– White Orchid River Cruise
– Manohra Luxury Dining Cruise
๐ Book in advance, especially on weekends or during high season.
๐ Arrive early to check in and get a good seat, open-air decks offer the best views.
๐ Departure piers include River City (near Si Phraya Pier), Asiatique, or ICONSIAM, check your booking details.
๐ Bring a light jacket or shawl, it can get breezy on the water.
๐ If you prefer a quieter or more upscale experience, opt for smaller, traditional-style boats like Manohra.
7. ๐ฅ Muay Thai Boxing (Rajadamnern, Lumpinee Stadium)
Watching a Muay Thai fight in Bangkok is a thrilling cultural experience. Known as the โArt of Eight Limbs,โ Muay Thai combines punches, kicks, elbows, and knees in a powerful display of skill, discipline, and tradition. Fights at Rajadamnern or Lumpinee Stadium feature both rising local talents and top-ranked professionals. The electrifying atmosphere, with live music, passionate fans, and rhythmic cheersโmakes it one of the most intense and authentic sporting events you can witness in Thailand.
๐ฅ Rajadamnern Stadium: Most active; events on Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun
๐ 8 Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd, เนเนเธเธงเธ เธงเธฑเธเนเธชเธกเธเธฑเธช, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
๐ฅ Lumpinee Stadium (new location on Ram Inthra Rd): Events on Fri & Sat
๐ 6 Ram Inthra Rd, Anusawari, Bang Khen, Bangkok 10220, Thailand
๐ Fights usually take place 3โ5 nights per week, typically starting around 6:30 PM and ending by 10:00 PM.
๐ธ 1,000โ2,500 THB depending on seating:
– Standard: Bleacher-style
– Ringside: Closer view with more comfort
– VIP: Best seats and amenities
๐ Rajadamnern Stadium now offers Rajadamnern World Series (RWS) with modern lighting, international fighters, and high production value, great for first-timers.
๐ Buy tickets online in advance to reserve better seats and avoid scalpers.
๐ For a more traditional experience, attend earlier weekday fights with local fighters and fewer tourists.
๐ Arrive a bit early to explore the stadium and enjoy pre-fight rituals like the wai kru (fighterโs dance).
๐ You can even book Muay Thai training sessions if youโre feeling adventurous!
8. ๐ฉ๐ปโ๐ณ Take a Thai Cooking Class (House of Taste Thai Cooking School)
This handsโon class is perfect if you want to immerse yourself in Thai food culture. You begin with a lively market tour in Khlong Toei or Silom, where your instructor introduces you to fresh herbs, spices, and produce used in daily Thai cooking. Afterward, you take a tukโtuk back to an airโconditioned classroom and prepare four authentic dishes, from tom yum or tom kha soup to pad Thai, a curry, and mango sticky rice. You get to cook nearly everything yourself and then enjoy your creations in a fun international group setting.
๐ฃ House of Taste is open daily from around 8:30โฏAM to 9:00โฏPM. Classes run in three sessions:
– Morning: 8:30โฏโโฏ12:00โฏPM
– Afternoon: 1:00โฏโโฏ4:30โฏPM
– Evening: 5:30โฏโโฏ9:00โฏPM
๐ธ A shared (group) class costs approximately 1,400 THB (~USโฏ$40โ45). Private classes are more, but you can customise your menu with up to 15 participants, and advanced multiโday courses are available too.
๐ 147/4, Sukhumvit 4, Samahan Alley, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
๐ Rajadamnern Stadium now offers Rajadamnern World Series (RWS) with modern lighting, international fighters, and high production value, great foChoose the morning class if you want the full market tour experience, relevant insight and ingredient shopping happen early.
๐ The instructors are experienced and fluent in English, and the fixed menus change daily, giving you a variety of dishes to try.
๐ Small group sizes help ensure handsโon cooking, though sometimes dishes are prepared in teams depending on class size, so arrive early and be ready to participate fully.
9. ๐๏ธ Daytrip to Ayutthaya
A daytrip to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a deep dive into Thailandโs royal past. Once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, Ayutthaya is now home to majestic temple ruins, giant Buddha statues, and crumbling stupas, all set among leafy streets and rivers. Highlights include Wat Mahathat (famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots), Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. It’s a must-see for history lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting a break from Bangkok’s buzz.
๐ฃ Most temples and historical sites are open daily from 8:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
๐ธ Individual temple entry fees range from 20โ50 THB. Or get a combo ticket for 220 THB, covering 6 major sites.
๐ Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand
๐ The best way to get there is by train (1.5โ2 hrs), minivan, or private car/tour.
๐ Rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk upon arrival to explore the ruins easily.
๐ Go early to avoid crowds and heat; bring sun protection and water.
๐ Consider taking a boat tour around the island for a unique view of the temples.
๐ For a more immersive experience, book a guided tour from Bangkok, it often includes round-trip transport, lunch, and history commentary.
10. โ๏ธ Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique The Riverfront combines the charm of a night market with the comfort of a modern mall, all set along the scenic Chao Phraya River. Built on a former port site, it’s a great place to shop, dine, and relax in the evening. Youโll find boutiques selling clothes and souvenirs, riverside restaurants, a large Ferris wheel, and live performances like Calypso Cabaret and Muay Thai stage shows. With its lively but laid-back vibe, itโs ideal for couples, families, and anyone wanting a gentle night out with river views.
๐ฃ Daily: 4:00 PM โ midnight
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ 2194 เธ. เนเธเธฃเธดเธเธเธฃเธธเธ Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
๐ Arrive by boat from Sathorn Pier via the free shuttle boat, itโs scenic and avoids traffic.
๐ Go at sunset for the best riverside views and cooler temperatures.
๐ The Asiatique Sky Ferris Wheel offers panoramic views, great for photos (around 400 THB per person).
๐ Book shows like Calypso Cabaret or Muay Thai Live in advance, especially on weekends.
๐ Prices are higher than traditional night markets but reflect the convenient setting and cleaner atmosphere.
11. ๐ Jim Thompson House
Nestled beside a tranquil canal in the Siam district, the Jim Thompson House is a beautifully preserved museum that invites you into the world of Jim Thompson, the American architect turned visionary who rescued Thailandโs silk industry and popularized Thai silk worldwide. The complex comprises six traditional teak buildings, relocated from across Thailand and reassembled into a home filled with rare antiques, Buddhist sculptures, Chinese porcelain, and textiles. The lush, nearly jungle-like garden surrounding the house offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
๐ฃ Open daily from 9:00โฏAM to 6:00โฏPM.
๐ธ Admission includes a guided tour (about 30โ45 mins) in English or other languages, it’s mandatory to tour the house interior.
– Adults: 200โ250โฏTHB
– Youth (under 22 with ID): 100โ150โฏTHB
– Children under 10: Free with adult
๐ 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐ Photography is allowed in the garden but prohibited at certain spots inside the house, be wary of this.
๐ Shoes and bags must be left at lockers or reception before entering.
๐ Join the guided tour early (first ones start around 9 AM) to avoid crowds and hear the rich history of Thompson and the silk trade.
๐ Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre or MBK Shopping Mall, easily reached from National Stadium BTS (~200โฏm walk).
๐ Relax in the garden cafรฉ or restaurant after the tour, and browse silk products in the on-site shop offering high-quality souvenirs.
12. ๐๏ธ Daytrip to the Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market
A daytrip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market offers two of Thailandโs most iconic and photogenic market experiences. At the floating market, vendors paddle wooden boats filled with tropical fruits, noodles, and souvenirs through narrow canals, giving you a glimpse of Thailandโs traditional way of life. At Maeklong, you’ll witness the unforgettable moment when a train literally runs through the middle of the market, as vendors pull back awnings and goods in seconds. Itโs a fascinating mix of culture, chaos, and charm, ideal for first-time visitors and photographers alike.
๐ถ Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Daily, 7:00 AM โ 12:00 PM
๐ Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
๐ Maeklong Railway Market: Daily, around 8:30 AM โ 5:00 PM (Train passes several times a day, most famously at ~8:30 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:30 PM, and 5:40 PM; check locally for current times.)
๐ CX4X+XCC, Mae Klong, Mueang Samut Songkhram District, Samut Songkhram 75000, Thailand
๐ธ Free entry to both markets
๐ฃโโ๏ธ Boat rides at Damnoen Saduak: ~150โ300 THB/person (shared) or 600โ1,000 THB (private)
๐ Go early (arrive by 8:00 AM) to avoid crowds and heat.
๐ For convenience, book a group or private day tour from Bangkok, they usually include transport, guide, and market timing coordination.
๐ Bring cash for snacks and souvenirs, most stalls donโt accept cards.
๐ At Maeklong, stand behind the safety line and listen for the train horn, it moves slowly, but space is tight.
๐ Want something more authentic? Consider Amphawa Floating Market, open on weekends and more popular with locals.
13. ๐๏ธ Daytrip to Ancient City (Muang Boran)
Ancient City (Muang Boran) is one of the worldโs largest open-air museums, offering a fascinating journey through Thailandโs history, culture, and architecture, all in one beautifully landscaped park. Located just outside Bangkok, the site features over 100 scaled-down replicas and reconstructions of Thailandโs most important monuments, palaces, and temples, some of which no longer exist in the real world. Itโs an ideal daytrip for those who want to explore the entire countryโs heritage without leaving the capital.
๐ Daily: 9:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
๐ธ Adults: 700 THB
๐ธ Children (6โ14 years): 400 THB
(Includes bicycle rental. Golf carts and tram tours available for an extra fee.)
๐ 296, 1 Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Pu Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan 10280, Thailand
๐ Rent a bicycle or golf cart to explore the vast 300-acre site comfortably.
๐ Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat, thereโs limited shade and lots of walking.
๐ Visit early in the day for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
๐ Book a guided tour in combination with Erawan Museum (same ownership, discount combo tickets often available).
๐ Great for families, photographers, and those wanting an educational, peaceful break from Bangkok’s traffic.
14. ๐ณ Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is Bangkokโs largest and oldest public green space, offering a peaceful escape from bustling city life. It features scenic 2.5โฏkm jogging/walking loops, shady lawns, an artificial lake with paddle boats, free exercise classes, and regular cultural events like live music performances and Tai Chi sessions.
๐ Daily from 4:30โฏAM to 9:00โฏPM
๐ธ Free entry!
๐ Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐ Best times to go are early morning (6โ8โฏAM) or late afternoon (4โ6โฏPM) to avoid heat and crowds.
๐ Whether itโs early morning or late afternoon, join locals jogging or doing Tai Chi and aerobics around the 2.5โฏkm loop.
๐ Rent swan or row boats on the lake (~40โฏTHB for 30โฏminutes) for a fun, budget-friendly activity.
๐ See monitor lizards, turtles, and birds. Theyโre harmless but fascinating, just observe from a respectful distance.
๐ Cycling is only allowed between 10โฏAM and 3โฏPM. Also, smoking, alcohol, and dogs (except guide dogs) are strictly prohibited and may lead to fines.
15. ๐๏ธ Museums in Bangkok (MOCA, Bangkok National Museum)
Bangkokโs museums offer a rich and engaging way to explore Thai history, culture, religion, and contemporary art. The Bangkok National Museum, located near the Grand Palace, is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, showcasing royal artifacts, ancient weaponry, and Buddhist art dating back centuries. In contrast, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) presents a modern take, featuring Thai and Southeast Asian contemporary works, from political satire to surrealism. Whether you’re a history buff or art lover, these museums provide valuable cultural context beyond temples and markets.
๐๏ธ Bangkok National Museum: WednesdayโSunday, 9:00 AM โ 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays & Tuesdays)
๐ธ Entry fee: 200 THB
๐ 4 Soi Na Phra That, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
๐ผ๏ธ MOCA Bangkok: TuesdayโSunday, 10:00 AM โ 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
๐ธ Entry fee: Adults 250 THB, Students 100 THB, Children under 15 free
๐ 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
๐ Visit the Bangkok National Museum on Thursdays for free English guided tours (check ahead for exact timing).
๐ MOCA is a bit outside the city center, take a Grab or taxi; allow at least 2 hours to explore.
๐ Wear modest clothing when visiting museums with religious content (especially the National Museum).
๐ Bring a photo ID or student card for discounts at most museums.
๐ Combine a visit to the National Museum with nearby attractions like Wat Phra Kaew or Sanam Luang Park for a culturally rich half-day.
16. ๐๏ธ Shopping at Malls: Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, and MBK Center
Bangkokโs mega malls offer more than just shopping, they’re entertainment hubs, culinary playgrounds, and a great way to escape the heat. Siam Paragon is known for luxury brands, a massive gourmet food hall, and even an aquarium. CentralWorld is one of Southeast Asiaโs largest malls, offering a mix of international fashion, tech stores, and cafes. For bargain hunters and souvenirs, MBK Center is a labyrinth of over 2,000 stalls selling clothes, accessories, and electronics at affordable prices. Whether you want a Prada bag, a bubble tea, or a phone case, Bangkokโs malls deliver.
๐๏ธ Siam Paragon
๐ Daily 10:00 AM โ 10:00 PM.
๐ 991/1 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐๏ธ CentralWorld
๐ Daily 10:00 AM โ 10:00 PM.
๐ 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐๏ธ MBK Center
๐ Daily 10:00 AM โ 9:00 PM.
๐ 444 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Subdistrict, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐ธ Free entry to all malls
๐ Use the BTS Skytrain (Siam Station), it connects directly to Siam Paragon and is a short walk to CentralWorld and MBK.
๐ MBK is great for haggling, but prices are already budget-friendly.
๐ For tech, head to MBKโs upper floors, but check warranty and quality.
๐ Many malls have free Wi-Fi, clean bathrooms, and co-working cafes, ideal for digital nomads.
๐ For food: Try Pier 21 Food Court (at Terminal 21) or Paragon Gourmet Market for delicious, clean, and affordable Thai meals.
17. ๐ธ Rooftop Bars in Bangkok
Bangkok’s rooftop bars are legendary for their breathtaking skyline views, making them a top choice for sunset drinks, romantic evenings, or photo-worthy nights out. From the glamorous Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower (made famous by The Hangover II) to the stylish and more affordable Octave Rooftop Lounge at Marriott Sukhumvit, there’s a rooftop for every budget and vibe. Whether you’re sipping cocktails 60 floors up or just soaking in the city lights, it’s one of the best ways to experience Bangkok after dark.
๐ Most rooftop bars are open daily, from around 5:00 PM to midnight. (Exact times vary slightly by venue).
๐ธ No entry fee at most venues, but drinks are required (expect 350โ600 THB per cocktail).
๐ก Dress codes often apply: no flip-flops, tank tops, or sportswear.
๐ Arrive by 5:30โ6:00 PM to catch golden hour and secure a good seat, especially without a reservation
๐ Octave, Above Riva, Vertigo, Tichuca, and Sky Bar are among the most popular; prices and crowd levels vary.
๐ For a more casual or hidden gem experience, try Havana Socialโs rooftop!
๐ Some bars offer happy hour deals (usually before 7 PM), check ahead.
๐ Use Grab or BTS to get close; rooftop bars are often in hotels or tall office buildings, look for signs or ask staff at the lobby.
18. ๐โโ๏ธ Get a Thai Massage in Bangkok
A Thai massage is a must-do cultural experience in Bangkok, offering deep relaxation and physical rejuvenation, especially after days of sightseeing. Unlike Western-style massages, Thai massage involves stretching, pressure points, and assisted yoga-like movements, helping improve circulation, flexibility, and muscle relief. Itโs also very affordable, making it accessible for daily relaxation or recovery. Whether you choose a luxury spa or a humble local shop, itโs an essential part of the Bangkok experience.
๐ Most massage parlors are open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight. (Some stay open even later in tourist areas)
๐ธ Typical prices:
๐โโ๏ธ Thai Massage (60 mins): 200โ400 THB at standard shops
๐งโโ๏ธ Luxury spa massage: 800โ2,000 THB+ depending on location and treatments
๐ก Tipping: 50โ100 THB is customary for good service
๐ For trusted, affordable massages, try Health Land, Letโs Relax, or Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School (inside the temple complex).
๐ Avoid places with pushy touts or overly โflashyโ signage, they may not offer genuine services.
๐ Communicate pressure preferences (light, medium, hard) clearly at the start.
๐ Wear loose-fitting clothes or use what they provide. Thai massage is done fully clothed in most places.
๐ Book in advance at popular spas, especially in the evening.
19. ๐จ Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is a vibrant hub for contemporary art, design, and cultural expression right in the heart of Bangkok. With its modern, spiraling architecture and ever-changing free exhibitions of Thai and international art, itโs the perfect spot to escape the heat and dive into Bangkokโs creative side. In addition to galleries, BACC houses independent bookstores, quirky art shops, and local cafรฉs, making it a favorite hangout for students, creatives, and travelers looking for a relaxed, cultural experience.
๐ TuesdayโSunday: 10:00 AM โ 7:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
๐ธ Free entry to most exhibitions and public areas. (Some special events or workshops may charge a small fee)
๐ 939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐ Easily accessible via BTS National Stadium Station (Exit 3), BACC is right next door.
๐ Great place to cool off, recharge, or find unique art prints, handmade goods, and coffee.
๐ Donโt miss the top floors (7โ9), where most of the major exhibitions are located.
๐ Check the official website for current exhibits, film screenings, or live performances.
๐ Combine your visit with nearby attractions like MBK Center, Siam Discovery, and Jim Thompson House.
20. โธ๏ธ Erawan Shrine
Located at Ratchaprasong intersection, the Erawan Shrine is a revered sacred site dedicated to PhraโฏPhrom, Thailandโs representation of the Hindu creator god, Brahma. Despite its central location amid Bangkokโs hustle, the shrine offers a deeply spiritual experience where worshippers come to pray for good fortune, health, success, or fulfilled wishes. Itโs also famed for traditional Thai dance performancesโoften personally commissioned by worshippers as tokens of gratitude, creating a vibrant, living ritual to witness.
๐ Open daily from around 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
๐ธ Free entry, donations are optional; offerings and hiring dancers involve small costs
๐ 494 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
๐ Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered is expected; vendors nearby may offer shawls if needed.
๐ Offerings such as incense sticks (usually in sets of nine), flower garlands, candles, wooden elephants, or fruits are bought from stalls around the shrine and placed in a clockwise circuit around the four-faced deity. Donations support shrine upkeep and charity.
๐ Thai dance performances frequently accompany worship, especially when wishes are fulfilled, these are often paid by devotees. Rates start as low as ~260โฏTHB for two dancers.
๐ Visit early morning (7โ8โฏAM) or late evening to avoid crowds and heat, and to observe more authentic worship by locals.
๐ Be vigilant with personal belongings, pickpocketing has been reported in crowded areas around the shrine.
๐ Avoid loud conversations or phone use, and bow with a respectful wai when entering or leaving. Don’t point your feet at the statue.
๐บ๏ธ Map of 20 Best Things to do in Bangkok
Bangkok is more than just a stopover, itโs a destination bursting with flavor, color, and soul. From sacred shrines to rooftop bars, and floating markets to Muay Thai fights, each experience reveals a new layer of this endlessly fascinating city. Whether youโre exploring for a weekend or staying longer, these 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok will help you connect with the heart of Bangkok, and leave you wanting to return for more.
