Top 10 All-Time Best Destinations in Bangkok

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A national symbol of Thailand, the Grand Palace of Bangkok is a spectacular palace complex spread over 210,000 square meters and one of the most famous landmarks in Thailand. It was built in 1782 and was once the home of the Thai royal family and a place for important ceremonies and events. The architecture of the Grand Palace is a multifaceted mix of Western and Thai styles, with its golden and colored-glass tiles reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural style of Thailand.

Within the Grand Palace, there are several temples. Most notable of all is the Jade Buddha Temple, which houses a Buddhist statue crafted out of a whole piece of green jade. Considered a symbol of Thai national spirit and faith, this temple attracts a large number of worshipers and visitors. As the Jade Buddha Temple is one of Thailand’s three major Buddhist temples, visitors to the Temple must be decently dressed. Ankles and shoulders must not be revealed. Photographs are not permitted on the Temple premises.

One of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho is adjacent to the Grand Palace. It is home to the world’s largest gilt statue of the “Reclining Buddha”, and one of Thailand’s most popular temples. Wat Pho is famous worldwide for its giant “Reclining Budhha” statue. The statue is 46 meters wide, 15 meters tall, and is plated in gold foil, making it one of the largest “Reclining Buddhas” in the world. There are more than 1,000 Buddha statues and pagodas. The Temple is visited by believers who burn incense and make offerings to the Buddha, and is filled with crowds every day. Visitors can visit the stunning Reclining Buddha statue in the Temple, admiring the spectacular scale and delicate carvings.

Wat Pho also features a Traditional Thai Massage School that offers the services of traditional Thai massage and treatments. This attracts many visitors who are seeking relaxation and healing of their bodies and minds. Visitors can experience authentic Thai massage and traditional medical therapies in the Temple and take a little break.

There are statues of Phra Phrom (also colloquially known as the “Four-Faced Buddha”) throughout Bangkok. However, the most visited statue must be the one next to BTS Chit Lom Station. Located in the heart of the bustling city, believers and tourists from all over the world come to the Shrine to worship Phra Phrom every day. If you look over the footbridge connecting the BTS station and Central World, you will be amazed by the thrilling scene of countless incense burning at the same time.

Phra Phrom, also known as “Brahma” the Creator God, is seen as the creator of every living thing and every law. In Thai belief, Phra Phrom is considered to be the god of protection and luck. Many people go to this temple to pray for good luck and protection. Visitors can observe how worshipers make their offerings, burn incense and candles, and perform the rituals of prayers; and can be surrounded by the religious atmosphere of the Temple. As for the architecture and décor of Erawan Shrine, there are exquisitely arranged flowers, sophisticated carvings, and artworks on display, also exhibiting the essence of traditional Thai art. Visitors can enjoy these fine artworks and embody the aesthetics of Thai culture.

Chao Phraya River is an important means of transportation in Bangkok. Although it is no longer the only way to navigate around Bangkok, it is still a great way through which to enjoy your trip in Bangkok. There are many historic buildings, temples, and palaces on both sides of the Chao Phraya River. Hopping on a boat, visitors can enjoy the views on both sides of the Chao Phraya River, including the Grand Palace of Bangkok, riverside temples, and traditional wooden huts. The spectacular views seen across the river allow the visitors to breathe in the unique charm of Bangkok. To embark on the journey, visitors may take the Express Boat, Long Tail Boat, or River Cruise to see the sights of the city and visit the temples along the river. Sathorn Central Pier is the drop-off and pick-up point where one can find the most plentiful boat options.

During the nighttime, the temples and buildings on both riverbanks are illuminated, revealing a dazzling landscape of the Chao Phraya River. Revel in these beautiful night views on an evening cruise. There are plenty of things to do and enjoy along the Chao Phraya River, including the riverside markets, restaurants, and bars. These activities enrich the traveler’s trip and allow them to experience the fascinating charm of the Chao Phraya River from all angles.

Thonburi Market Place is a famous night market known for its fresh and varied seafood. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious seafood dishes, including prawn, crab, fish, shellfish, etc., at an affordable price. Whether you like your seafood baked, cooked, or deep-fried, it is guaranteed that you will find mouthwatering dishes to your liking. Thonburi Market Place is located slightly away from the city. There are neither BTS nor MRT stations nearby. Therefore, the most convenient way to access the night market is by way of taxi from Bangkok, which takes approximately 40 minutes to an hour to ride.

Unlike traditional markets, Thonburi Market Place is clean and bright. It is divided into deli, grocery, and raw food areas with over 500 merchants. There are meats, seafood, and fruits and vegetables in the raw food area.

With a vibrant and distinctive night market atmosphere, there are plenty of stalls selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to antiques and accessories. Visitors can find unique souvenirs while experiencing the hustling and bustling Thai night market.

Floating Market is a classic attraction spot in traveling Bangkok! Visitors can take a boat ride around the Floating Market and see the locals selling fruit, vegetables, food, and handicrafts on boats. This traditional trade allows visitors to experience ancient Thai flair while also learning about the lifestyles of the locals.

The Floating Market offers a variety of delicious Thai street food and local specialties. Hawkers driving longtail boats skillfully navigate along the canal, while opening coconuts, cutting mangoes and even cooking noodles on board. Visitors can have a taste of fresh fruit, stir-fried rice noodles, deep-fried spring rolls, grilled seafood, and more. Even though the locals can cook their noodles on a bumpy boat, it doesn’t mean that you can eat the noodles safely. Feel free to join the challenge or just eat them on steady land. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a top choice for most visitors.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is Bangkok’s largest weekend market, with a total area of more than 15 standard football courts, and housing more than 15,000 stalls. The market features a wide range of must-have items and snacks from all over Thailand at an affordable price. It is hard for shoppers to experience the whole market even if they have been there 2 to 3 times.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is famous for its affordable prices. Visitors can find trendy clothing, handicrafts, antiques, homeware, and plants. With a wide range of items to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a gift, or something for your own use. Also, visitors can also bargain for lower prices in the market. It is part of the market culture which provides visitors with plenty of fun and challenges in shopping. Not only is it a shopping paradise, but also a food paradise. Chatuchak Weekend Market is filled with snack stalls and restaurants serving a wide range of delicious Thai and international cuisines.

Boasting as Asia’s largest water park, Siam Park was once the Guinness World Record holder for “the largest water park” in the world. Siam Park hosts many exciting and fun water rides, including Asia’s largest rainbow slides, spas, waterfalls, jet safaris, etc. The facilities in Siam Park are suitable for visitors of all ages. Both adults and children can find something they enjoy.

In addition to the water facilities, Siam Park also has other amusement park rides such as rollercoasters, carousels, bumper cars, and a Ferris Wheel. These rides offer excitement and entertainment. Visitors can fully enjoy a trip of adventure and fun.

Chinatown is located on Yauwarat Road, west side of Bangkok. It is one of the most buzzing business districts in Bangkok. Chinatown is a place full of history and cultural heritage. Built 200 years ago, this area is the heart of the Chinese community in Bangkok. Visitors can indulge in the rich cultural atmosphere and appreciate the traditional Chinese architectural styles, such as those of shops and temples. In addition, Chinatown is an important place for Chinese living in Bangkok to celebrate the Chinese New Year, during which visitors can experience the buzzing festivities in here.

Chinatown, Bangkok mainly consists of Sampheng Lane, Yaowarat Road, and Charoen Krung Road, and is approximately 2km long, lined with old Chinese buildings and archways. The busiest part of Chinatown is definitely Yaowarat Road, as it is packed with food stalls. It is a culinary paradise even for Thais. There are many renowned restaurants and snack stalls serving authentic Chinese and Thai cuisines. Visitors can enjoy many delicious dishes such as abalone fin, roasted duck, prawn cakes, and mango sticky rice.

After several openings and closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Train Night Market Ratchada of Bangkok re-opened under the new name of “JODD FAIRS” after relocating to the “Fortune Town” on Rama IX Road. JODD FAIRS is a fashion and design hub that brings together local and international designers, creative talent, and brands. Visitors can find unique, stylish, and creative items such as clothing, accessories, homeware, handicrafts, and jewelries.

Not only does JODD FAIRS offer fashion and design items, but it also provides visitors with many options for restaurants and cafes. The new night market has a uniform minimalistic white color palette. The logo of the old Train Night Market Ratchada is transformed from a train into an antique car. Formerly popular stalls such as “volcanic ribs”, “fruit princess” and “grilled squid” have made a comeback. From time to time, there are also performances by live bands that attract new and old friends to gather in this place.