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Wat Arun in Bangkok at sunset

The Best Things to Do in Bangkok

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By Beth Ellison


Perhaps Asia's most dynamic city, Bangkok is an enthralling mix of ancient and modern, east and west.

Whether you want to explore by tuk-tuk, Skytrain, river boat or bicycle, here's our guide to the best things to do in Bangkok, to make the most of your time in Thailand's exciting capital.

Bangkok Dinner Cruise

An unforgettable dinner cruise on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River makes for a great evening. Step aboard the luxurious and comfy Supanniga Cruise, as you’re welcomed with a chilled glass of Champagne. As the sun sets, enjoy views of the city from a unique perspective as you indulge in a six-course dinner of exquisite Thai food. After the meal, relax on the cosy lounge sofas before returning back to your hotel.


 

A view of the Bangkok skyline from a river cruise

Evening Street Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Bangkok is claimed to be the city that never stops eating, so hop aboard your tuk-tuk to visit some of the city's best local eateries. This is one of the best things to do in Bangkok to really get a feel for local customs and traditions.


Try authentic delicacies including the city’s best Pad Thai whilst enjoying a traditional Thai beer at a secret bar. As midnight descends, visit some of Bangkok’s most iconic sights and witness the glittering side of its temples.


 

A tuk tuk drives through the streets of Bangkok

Chinatown by Bike

Discover the district of Chinatown as you cycle through the alleyways, before diving into the hustle and bustle of this lively Bangkok neighbourhood. Take the ferry across the river to explore the lesser known temples, markets and Princess Mother Memorial Park. Ride to the Temple of Good Friends before visiting Wat Arun as you make your way back to Chinatown. 


Cycling through Chinatown really helps you get a feel for Bangkok and brings the city to life!


 

A bicycle in the streets of Bangkok's Chinatown

Wat Pho & the Grand Palace

Visiting two of Thailand's most famous landmarks is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bangkok! Stroll around the Grand Palace, a richly decorated complex, dating back to the 18th Century. Whilst at the palace you will have the chance to see the revered Emerald Buddha. 


Next, pay a visit to the riverside complex of Wat Pho to see the enormous 46 metre golden reclining Buddha.


 

The grand palace in Bangkok

Floating Markets Tour

Drive an hour south of Bangkok to a unique market set on the railway tracks where stall holders scurry to move their wares each time a train passes. This is followed by a visit to a fascinating floating market where you board a paddle boat for a delightful journey through a maze of canals stopping to sample fresh fruit juices, local delicacies or simply pick up a souvenir!


 

River Kwai

Travel into the lush countryside to Kanchanaburi for a journey to the famous bridge on the River Kwai. Learn of its history at the war cemetery and the Thailand Burma Railway Centre Museum, followed by a train ride on the Death Railway. In the afternoon, why not discover the charm of rural Thai life at a local village, and take a tour on a traditional farm truck.


 

The bridge over the river kwai in Thailand

Ayutthaya Insight

Board a local train and travel north to the historic city of Ayutthaya, a former capital of Siam and explore the magnificent ruins and ancient temples of this once glorious city by tuk-tuk. Continue to the Muslim Quarter for lunch at a local restaurant followed by a leisurely longtail boat ride down the Chao Phraya River where you can spot the historic sites from a different perspective.


A trip to Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's magical highlights, and is one of the best things to do during your time in Bangkok if you're interestedin history.


 

A buddhist temple in Bangkok

Thai Cooking Class

Experiment with new flavours, combine fresh ingredients and improve your knowledge of Thai cuisine with a cooking course in Bangkok! These courses will open your eyes to the secrets behind your favourite Thai dishes and is designed to cater for budding cooks of all abilities. After your class is complete, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the delicious meals that you have prepared - yum!


 

Tom Yum soup in Bangkok Thailand

For more inspiration on where to stay and what to do here, take a look at our Bangkok Holidays page.

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Written by Beth Ellison

Beth is a Procurement Manager for South East Asia in our Product Department in Kensington. Beth has worked at Trailfinders since 2016 and has travelled to 31 countries. Her favourite destinations include Namibia, the Galapagos Islands and Thailand.

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