10 things to do in Bangkok

Explore the historical magnificence of the Royal Palace in Bangkok, a regal residence that has served as the official abode of Thai kings since 1782. Standing as the focal point of tourist fascination in Bangkok, the palace boasts extraordinary architecture that captivates visitors from all over the world. Within this complex of grandeur lies the renowned Emerald Buddha, housed in a temple exclusively devoted to its splendor. This temple, constructed concurrently with the palace, adds to the allure of this iconic landmark.

Admire the intricately crafted woodwork, gilded roofs that shimmer in the sunlight, vivid paintings portraying historical battle scenes, and a myriad of dragon statues adorned in a spectrum of colors. The lavishness of this palace and temple complex leaves nothing to chance, creating a visual spectacle that is truly breathtaking.

Plan for a minimum of two hours to fully explore the intricacies of the palace, with an admission fee of 500 Bahts, equivalent to just over 13 euros.

A few steps south of the royal palace is Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's most visited and oldest Buddhist temples and home to Thailand's largest collection of representations of Buddha, including the famous 46-meter-long statue of the Reclining Buddha. The Reclining Buddha is a representation of Buddha having reached the state of Nirvana before transitioning to the afterlife. It is the largest statue of Buddha in Thailand.

In the corridor behind the statue are 108 bronze bowls for donations to help the monks living in the temple maintain it.

Entrance to Wat Pho costs 200 Bahts (around €5).

Fun fact - why not getting a massage after meeting the Reclining Buddha? Wat Pho stands as a venerable institution, revered as the nation's inaugural public university. Since 1955, its sacred grounds have been a sanctuary for a renowned school of traditional medicine and massage, preserving and imparting centuries-old healing practices. As you wander through this historical haven, intricate illustrations grace the walls, depicting the human body and the nuances of Thai massage methods. Over the years, Wat Pho has molded several thousand practitioners. A unique offering awaits visitors—immersing oneself in this legacy includes the opportunity to experience the soothing touch of a traditional Thai massage within the halls of Wat Pho.

From Wat Pho, a few steps and a boat ride across the Chao Phraya River will take you to Wat Arun, one of Bangkok's most spectacular temples.

Perched on the water's edge, it boasts a distinct architectural allure setting it apart from the city's other sacred sites. Dominating the skyline, a majestic central Prang soars to an impressive 80 meters, encircled by four smaller Prangs, each adorned with a mosaic of earthenware and vibrant colored porcelain. Wat Arun stands as a radiant testament to Bangkok's rich cultural heritage.

Entrance to Wat Arun costs 100 Bahts, just under 3 euros.

This open-air temple holds a special place in our hearts as our favorite temple from the ones we've explored in Bangkok. The intricate porcelain embellishments on each Prang captivated us, and the sight of students donned in traditional attire mingling with both tourists and monks added a unique charm. The experience reaches new heights—literally—as the opportunity to ascend the central Prang via a staircase awaits, providing a breathtaking perspective of this enchanting masterpiece.

Unwind and savor the moment at a charming café with a terrace near the temple—a perfect haven for relaxation before your next adventure.

Damnoen Saduak floating market, located in Ratchaburi province about 100 kilometers west of Bangkok, is one of Thailand's most famous floating markets and a popular tourist attraction.

It takes about a day to go there, explore it fully and come back to Bangkok.

Nestled along a labyrinth of narrow canals framed by charming wooden houses on stilts, the floating market unfolds as a picturesque Thai scene. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as small rowing boats, expertly guided by locals, navigate the waterways. These slender vessels offer an intimate journey, allowing you to closely observe the diverse array of products on display. From fresh fruits to apparel, refreshing drinks, and even take-away delights, Damnoen Saduak floating market is a sensory feast, inviting you to explore the heart of Thai commerce amidst its unique setting.

This market is in perpetual effervescence and a true synchronized ballet where each boat propels forward to maintain a seamless flow for visitors-turned-customers. In this dynamic setting, if a particular item catches your eye, a swift signal to your boat's helmsman prompts a temporary slowdown. Engage with the trader, swiftly secure your desired item, and be prepared to exchange currency with agility. It's a transactional dance where timing is everything—keep your senses sharp, bahts at the ready, and immerse yourself in the whirlwind of this lively marketplace experience.

Street food in Southeast Asia transcends mere culinary tradition; it embodies a way of life, and Bangkok stands as its grand ambassador. In every nook and cranny, vibrant stalls beckon, offering delectable delights at any hour. Enterprising shopkeepers skillfully craft their dishes right on the pavement, creating a sensory symphony of enticing aromas that serves as an olfactory celebration. The temptation to resist the allure of a street food stall is a difficult task, as the desire to explore their tempting preparations and indulge in a little snack is irresistible.

Embarking on a journey to Bangkok would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic Khao San Road market. Beyond being the pulsating heart of the city's nightlife, this legendary street stands as a quintessential must-see, boasting a remarkable concentration of street food stalls teeming with authentic Thai flavors. From the delectable Pad Thai and aromatic Tom Yum to savory fried rice and grilled meat, the market offers a gastronomic adventure at remarkably affordable prices (a Pad Thai setting you back less than a euro).

For those with a sweet tooth, do not miss out the famous Thai Roti—an indulgent, deep-fried pancake served with a luscious drizzle of condensed coconut milk, banana, or Nutella. And, of course, one cannot overlook the famed Mango Sticky Rice, a delightful confection featuring freshly cut mangoes adorning sweet, sticky rice, generously showered with coconut milk. We had a few when in Bangkok.

Thailand, graced by its hot and humid tropical climate, stands as a leading producer of coconuts and mangoes. In Thai cuisine, coconut is an essential ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. It can be found in curries, desserts, salads and many other preparations. The same goes for mangoes, of which Thailand is one of the world's biggest producers. Thai mangoes, celebrated as some of the world's finest, captivate with their sweet, succulent flavor and luscious texture.

As night falls, Khao San Road market transforms into a lively spectacle. Bars and clubs open, music fills the air, creating an ideal setting to enjoy a cocktail, dance, and mingle with locals and travelers from all over the world.

Situated south of Bangkok in Samut Songkhram province, this market is renowned for its unique setting, directly atop the Mae Klong railway tracks.

Stroll along the railway tracks, flanked by stalls showcasing a plethora of fruits, vegetables, and tempting street food, until the distant hum of an approaching train becomes audible. With trains making regular appearances throughout the day, local traders, attuned to the schedule, willingly share insights on the next arrival if you explore the market independently. It's a synchronized dance as the traders deftly fold their stalls away within mere seconds before the train's arrival. Some strategically placed products near the rails stand testament to this artful choreography, ensuring they remain untouched by the passing train. The market thrives in this rhythmic balance, where time is of the essence for both vendors and visitors alike.

For a seamless journey to Mae Klong market from Bangkok, much like the floating market, opting for a travel agent is recommended. Our choice was to secure our visit through the Get Your Guide website, selecting an agency that provided an inclusive day trip to both Mae Klong market and Damnoen Saduak.

No journey to Thailand is complete without indulging in a rejuvenating massage at one of the country's numerous Thai massage centers. Bangkok, as the vibrant capital, is no stranger to this, boasting massage parlors at every turn. Thai massage, crafted to harmonize the body's vital energy, is not just an art form; it holds the prestigious distinction of being listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage site, showcasing its significance in preserving traditional wellness practices.

Indulge in the luxury of choice with options ranging from foot, back, to full-body massages, available in convenient half-hour or extended hour-and-a-half packages. Allow the experienced practitioners on-site to be your guides, tailoring their expert advice to align with your available time, desires, and specific wellness needs.

Thai massage is rooted in the application of profound pressure and purposeful stretching, enhanced by the use of a camphor-based balm. Skillful practitioners employ not only their hands but also their elbows, knees, and feet to delicately apply pressure and gently stretch the recipient's body. While this massage style may not suit everyone, there's the option to customize your experience by requesting a milder version, focusing solely on moderate hand pressure for a more personalized and comfortable massage.

Indulging in a one-and-a-half-hour massage comes at a remarkably affordable price of just €20, a fraction of the €60-80 (if not more) rates typical in Europe. Take advantage of this cost-effective opportunity to treat yourself to a moment of relaxation, especially after a day spent exploring the city's wonders.

Sipping a cocktail in a rooftop bar is an essential experience on any visit to Bangkok. Elevated above the vibrant city streets, these rooftop bars provide an enchanting panorama of Bangkok's illuminated skyline, offering a breathtaking perspective of the bustling metropolis below.

Our recommendation is to visit in the late afternoon, allowing you to witness the stunning transformation of the cityscape from day to dusk and then to night while relishing a cocktail or two. If you plan to dine, it's wise to secure reservations in advance. However, be mindful that while the cocktail prices may seem reasonable, the same may not hold true for the dining options in these establishments.

We recommend the Red sky bar, where we took the photos below. It is best to arrive at 5 pm at the opening, which allows you to witness the breathtaking transition from day to nightfall over the mesmerizing cityscape of Bangkok.

For swift navigation across short distances in Bangkok, nothing beats the charm of a Tuk-Tuk ride! These compact, open three-wheeled vehicles, adorned with vibrant colors and decorations, have evolved into iconic symbols of the city.

In contrast to Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries, it's not feasible to book a tuk-tuk through the Grab app in Thailand. Instead, you'll need to communicate directly with the driver regarding the fare, and be prepared to negotiate if needed. To prevent any unexpected surprises at the journey's end, ensure you agree on the fare with the driver before embarking on the ride. Additionally, clearly communicate your destination to avoid unscheduled stops at attractions where drivers may earn commissions.

An iconic presence in Asia, the Night Markets of Bangkok stand as a true institution. As the sun sets, the city undergoes a captivating transformation, with the markets coming alive in a symphony of lights and bustling activity. From clothing and delectable street food to jewelry, local handicrafts, and electronic gadgets, these markets offer an electrifying array of goods. You'll find it all in the electrifying atmosphere of the night markets.

Bangkok's night markets usually open in the late afternoon and stay open until late into the night. This is a great option for exploring the city when the temperatures are cooler.

The must-see night markets in Bangkok are Khao San road market and Chatuchak.