Things to do in Bangkok

About Bangkok

Venturing into Bangkok, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are unmissable landmarks steeped in history and splendor. The adjacent Wat Pho, with its gigantic reclining Buddha, remains a pilgrimage site for spirituality and Thai massage. No visit is complete without experiencing the exquisiteness of Wat Arun as it towers over the Chao Phraya River, especially striking at sunset.
For families in Bangkok, the Siam Ocean World Aquarium dazzles with marine life, while the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Discovery Museum offer fun learning opportunities. The Safari World zoo with its array of animals and live shows provides a full day's engagement for curious young minds.
Outdoor enthusiasts can savor Bangkok's lush landscapes at the Lumphini Park for relaxation or a bike ride through the historical Rattanakosin Island. For a cultural excursion, the scenic riverboat tours on the Chao Phraya River provide a glimpse into the city's historical landmarks from an aquatic vantage point.
Indoor explorers can delight in the vast collection at the Bangkok National Museum or absorb contemporary art at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). Shoppers and foodies can meanwhile enjoy the plethora of options offered by the city's mega malls, like MBK Center or ICONSIAM.
Bangkok's best tours offer experiences like an audio-guided tour of heritage sites, culinary explorations in local markets, or guided temple visits that delve into spiritual rituals. The city's river cruises are also a must, blending dining, sightseeing, and cultural narratives.
Popular museums include the Bangkok National Museum for a deep dive into Thai history, the Museum of Siam that explores Thai identity, the Jim Thompson House for silk heritage, and the Royal Barges National Museum boasting a unique display of ornately decorated vessels.
For rainy days, take sanctuary in cultural havens like the awe-inspiring Jim Thompson House or the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, offering enriching tours that are unaffected by the weather. Alternatively, shopping mall tours or a visit to Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World can be perfect indoor diversions.
If time-pressed, Bangkok accommodates with short but sweet experiences like a 30-minute express boat trip along the Chao Phraya River, a quick cultural jaunt in the Jim Thompson House, or a brief yet immersive tuk-tuk tour through the city's bustling lanes.

Best Things to Do In Bangkok

Discover the vibrant soul of Bangkok with our tailored audio tours designed to show you the best of the city.

Bangkok: Wat Pho

What is it?
A historic temple complex famous for its giant reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage.
Why you should go?
Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is an oasis of tranquility and one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. The site is filled with cultural and spiritual heritage, including the magnificent 46-meter-long gold-leaf-covered statue, and is considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Audio-guided tours offer insightful stories about its history, art, and the surrounding chedis, providing a deep dive into one of Bangkok's most cherished spiritual sites.

Bangkok: Golden Mount (Wat Saket)

What is it?
An ancient hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city and a sacred atmosphere.
Why you should go?
Wat Saket, or the Golden Mount, beckons visitors with a spiraling staircase leading to a golden chedi at its peak. This serene enclave offers breathtaking views of Bangkok's horizon, particularly enchanting at sunset. The accompanying audio guide enhances the experience by recounting the temple’s lore and significance, as well as the customs observed during its annual temple fair, making it a cultural pilgrimage within the urban sprawl.

Bangkok: Muay Thai Match at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium

What is it?
An authentic venue for witnessing the traditional martial art of Muay Thai in a live setting.
Why you should go?
Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is the stage for experiencing the thrilling world of Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport and cultural martial art. Spectators can feel the raw passion and athleticism as fighters spar in rhythmic bouts. With audio interpretations detailing the sport's history, significance, and the rules of the game, visitors gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this intense, time-honored practice.

Bangkok: Benjakitti Park

What is it?
A spacious, peaceful park featuring a large lake with skyline views and outdoor activities.
Why you should go?
Benjakitti Park is a lush respite from Bangkok's lively street scenes, boasting a picturesque lake with cityscape vistas. Perfect for a leisurely bike ride or jog, the park's wide paths and substantial greenery appeal to nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. As the sun sets, the audio guide complements the experience with tales of the park's establishment and its role in Bangkok's eco-friendly initiatives, while the reflection of twinkling skyscrapers dances across the water's surface.

Bangkok: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center

What is it?
A state-of-the-art convention center hosting exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events.
Why you should go?
Not just for business travelers, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center is also a cultural hub for exhibitions and trade shows that offer a glimpse into Thai innovation and craftsmanship. The audio guide provides context for the architectural design and functionality of the space while inviting visitors to delve into the rotating calendar of events, ranging from book fairs to art shows, providing a unique, educational, and enriching experience.

Bangkok: Floating Markets

What is it?
An authentic and lively experience of shopping and eating on the water.
Why you should go?
Bangkok's floating markets offer a bustling atmosphere that captures the essence of local life on the city's waterways. As your boat glides through the narrow canals, an audio guide provides enriching stories about the traditional commerce and daily life of vendors who have been trading fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods for generations. The vibrant colors, smells, and sounds create a memorable tapestry of experiences that encapsulate the unique charm of these aquatic bazaars.

Bangkok: Terminal 21

What is it?
A shopping mall with an international gateway theme, offering a world tour in one location.
Why you should go?
Terminal 21 isn't your average mall; it's a global journey with each floor designed to represent a different city. Audio guidance enhances your visit by providing context on the stylized depiction of famous metropolises like Tokyo, London, and Istanbul. Alongside ample shopping opportunities, the mall offers a delectable array of international cuisines to sample, making it a truly global experience in the heart of Bangkok.

Bangkok: Siam Niramit

What is it?
A captivating theatrical performance showcasing Thailand's history and culture.
Why you should go?
Siam Niramit is an unforgettable spectacle that weaves together Thailand’s history, legends, and traditions through stunning performances. With one of the largest stages in the world, this audio-described show takes you on an epic journey through time, complemented by magnificent sets, exquisite costumes, and breathtaking special effects, culminating in a profound appreciation for Thailand's rich cultural tapestry.

Bangkok: Chatuchak Weekend Market

What is it?
One of the largest markets in the world, famous for its wide range of goods and lively atmosphere.
Why you should go?
An audio-guided tour of Chatuchak Weekend Market reveals the vibrant heart of Bangkok’s shopping culture. Spread over 35 acres, it offers everything from vintage clothing to exquisite Thai handicrafts. Navigate through the bustling rows, as the guide shares tips on haggling and unearths the stories behind the stalls, while you immerse yourself in the local rhythm of commerce and community.

Bangkok: Sukhumvit Soi 11

What is it?
A bustling street known for its eclectic nightlife and array of dining options.
Why you should go?
Sukhumvit Soi 11 serves as the pulse of Bangkok's nightlife, with an atmosphere that's both cosmopolitan and full of local energy. An audio tour here illuminates the diverse bar scene, international restaurants, and clubs pulsating with music, making it more than just a night out—it's a cultural exploration into the dynamic nocturnal social landscape of one of the world's most vibrant cities.

TOP-5 tours in Bangkok for first time visitors

  • Explore the grandeur of The Grand Palace, where Thailand's history unfolds through audio narratives, highlighting its stunning architecture and sacred Wat Phra Kaew.
  • Meander down the lively streets of Chinatown, with anecdotes of heritage and bustling market scenes, enriching the sensory tapestry of flavors and sights.
  • Delve into the spiritual serenity of Wat Arun with an audio tour that reveals the intricate artwork and folklore surrounding the iconic ‘Temple of Dawn’.
  • Take a leisurely audio-guided walk through Lumphini Park, the green heart of Bangkok, learning about its royal origins and present-day cultural significance.
  • Embark upon a river cruise with a difference; our audio guide details the historical importance of the Chao Phraya River and the landmarks lining its banks.

Fun things to do in Bangkok with kids

Bangkok is a playground of wonders for families, offering a mix of educational and exhilarating experiences for the youngest of travelers. Dive into the aquatic adventures at Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, where kids can get up close with over 30,000 curious sea creatures. Interactive talks and feeding sessions, paired with engaging audio guides, make for an unforgettable underwater journey. Thrill-seekers will love the adrenaline-pumping rides at Siam Amazing Park, featuring a water park and an amusement park that promises a day full of splashes and laughter, with a backdrop of enlightening commentary on each ride's story. For a more laid-back outing, the artistic oasis at Art in Paradise Bangkok provides a fantastical world of interactive 3D art installations, where families can become part of the exhibits and create fun, shared memories while learning about the artistry through the audio guide.

Things to do in Bangkok with family

Captivating experiences suitable for all ages await families in Bangkok. Start with a visit to the Bangkok Safari World, a sprawling park home to hundreds of animals from all over the globe. Families can explore Safari Park's open spaces where animals roam freely or Marine Park's animal shows—all narrated with interesting facts by our detailed audio guides. For an educational twist, the Museum of Siam demystifies the Thai culture and its evolution—through interactive exhibits combined with audio storytelling, it's a perfect spot for curious minds. And no family trip to Bangkok would be complete without exploring Dusit Zoo, an urban oasis where children can marvel at the wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. The zoo's lush grounds and variety of species make for a peaceful retreat from the city hustle, with educational audio snippets to enhance the journey.

Free things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok sparkles with a host of attractions that are easy on the pocket yet rich in experience. The city's green lung, Lumphini Park, invites families and solo travelers alike to unwind amid nature. Your audio guide will share tales of the park's history as you navigate around the lakes and under the shade of tamarind trees. Art aficionados can delve into the world of contemporary Thai art at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) where exhibitions rotate regularly, providing a bounty of visual feasts complemented by enlightening audio narratives. Lastly, for a spiritual encounter, the historic Wat Mahathat offers a daily chance to learn meditation from the monks, an utterly priceless experience set within the temple's peaceful grounds, hinted with insights and peaceful reflections through your audio device.

Cheap things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok brims with budget-friendly attractions that deliver culturally rich experiences. Embark on a journey through the winding canals with a long-tail boat tour, where for just a few baht, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of riverside life; your audio guide will reveal hidden gems and historical insights along the way. Street food adventurers will revel in the flavors available at local markets such as the famous Victory Monument street food stalls, where audio descriptions offer culinary tales and tips on the best local delicacies for just pennies. For a dose of retail therapy, explore the bustling Pratunam Market, known for its wide range of affordable apparel and accessories; tune into audio stories about the market's origins and its place in Bangkok's economy as you hunt for bargains.

Things to do in Bangkok for couples

Couples in Bangkok can find romance amidst the city's dynamic backdrop, with options ranging from relaxing to adventurous. Begin with a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, offering a blend of exquisite Thai cuisine and riverside sights, illuminated at nightfall. Accompanying audio narratives set the scene, weaving through the history of the river and landmarks. For an outing that combines culture with awe, wander the halls of Bangkok National Museum. While holding hands, listen to stories of art and antiquities that speak of Thailand's storied past. Lastly, find respite in the green surrounds of the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, where free-flying butterflies create a magical atmosphere—the perfect metaphor for love's delicate beauty, further enriched with audio commentary on the diverse species and their habitats.

Things to do in Bangkok at night

When darkness descends, Bangkok transforms into a city of illuminated splendor, offering mesmerizing experiences for night owls. Ascend to the heavens at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel's rotating rooftop view, where an altitude of 84 floors offers unrivaled panoramas of the cityscape. The audio guide fills the sky-high gaze with captivating tales of the city's landmarks twinkling below. For a dash of nocturnal retail therapy, visit the nocturne of Asiatique The Riverfront, where shopping and entertainment converge on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and where tales of its warehouse origins come alive through your audio device. Nightlife in Bangkok is not complete without experiencing the vibrant street food scene. Head over to Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, where the sizzle of woks and the sweet treats mix with stories of culinary traditions, making every bite a narrated taste adventure.