Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is among the top places to visit in Southeast Asia. While the place is generally identified with its clubs and bars and marked as a place for mainly young tourists, Bangkok has so much more to offer to all travellers!
The article below on the best places to visit in Bangkok is a testament to this fact, as we will cover the sites that showcase Thai culture and offer truly moving experiences. Whether you are visiting with your family, going for a solo adventure or a family trip, you can have unparalleled experiences and endless fun, all while truly immersing yourself in Thai culture and exploring the exciting nightlife and authentic Thai cuisine.
Let’s get started with an overview of the places in the table below:
Best Places to Visit in Bangkok in Summers
Best Places to Visit in Bangkok in Winters
Best Places to Visit in Bangkok with Family
Grand Palace
Wat Pho
Grand Palace
Wat Arun
Chatuchak Market
Wat Arun
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Wat Traimit
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Erawan Museum
Lumpini Park
Erawan Museum
Safari World
Chinatown
Safari World
Wat Suthat
Chao Phraya River
Wat Pho
Jim Thompson House
Wat Benchamabophit
Chatuchak Market
Dusit Palace
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Wat Traimit
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Lumpini Park
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Dusit Palace
Without further ado, let’s take a look at what each of these places will offer you.
1. Grand Palace
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, the Grand Palace is a significant palace of the country built in 1782. It served as the official residence of the King of Thailand until 1925 and is a stunning example of traditional Thai architecture and design, with intricate details and elaborate decorations adorning every surface.
You can explore numerous places in the Grand Palace such as the temple of Emerald Buddha, which features the 66-centimetre tall statue of the Emerald Buddha. In addition, the place is also home to various other attractions, like museums, galleries, and ceremonial halls. For those seeking a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich past, the Grand Palace should be on their list of places to visit in Bangkok.
2. Wat Arun
Wat Arun, also referred to as the Temple of Dawn, is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Featuring over 80 metres tall prang, Wat Arum is adorned with floral designs and colourful Chinese porcelain.
You can climb the stairs of the prang to enjoy panoramic views of the river and city. It is surrounded by smaller structures and statues, including a hall of murals depicting Thai mythology scenes. Arun is especially beautiful at sunset, when the temple is illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun.
3. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok, located about 100 kilometres southwest of Bangkok. The market is set up on a network of canals lined with boats selling a wide range of goods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, souvenirs, and traditional Thai snacks.
To explore the market, you can take a boat tour and explore or even purchase food and drinks from the vendors on the boats. Besides its popularity among tourists, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market also holds importance as a centre of commerce for local farmers and merchants.
4. Wat Pho
Located immediately south of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is a well-known temple and one of the best places to visit in Bangkok for all those interested in Thai culture, history, and religion. The temple has a reclining Buddha, which is so large that you can walk around it, admiring its intricate details and ornate decorations.
The place is also famous for its impressive traditional Thai art and architecture collection, like shrines, statues, and pagodas. This is also one of the best places to visit in Bangkok to get a traditional Thai massage.
5. Chatuchak Market
Chatuchak Market is one of the largest and most popular open-air markets in Bangkok. It is spread over 35 acres in the Chatuchak district of the city and features over 9,000 stalls selling a wide variety of goods.
This is a good place to visit in Bangkok with family and easily spend hours browsing the different sections of the market, sampling street food, and bargaining with the vendors for the best rates. While the market is busiest on weekends, some sections are occupied on weekdays too. To get a glimpse of the street culture of Bangkok and experience the vibrant energy of the city, Chatuchak Market is a must-visit.
6. Wat Traimit
Also known as the Temple of Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit is a famous Buddhist temple in Bangkok's Chinatown district. The place is famous for its Buddha statue, which is over 3 metres tall and weighs five and a half tons. This golden statue is one of the most valuable and impressive Buddha images in the world and is a must-visit place.
Moreover, you can explore the museum that features exhibits on the history and culture of Chinatown and the Thai-Chinese community. For those who are interested in Buddhism, Thai culture, and history, Wat Traimit is a good place to visit in Bangkok.
7. Lumpini Park
In the centre of the concrete jungle of Bangkok, there are multiple remarkable parks, with Lumpini Park being one of them. The park covers an area of over 500,000 square meters and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It features a beautiful lake that you can explore by renting paddle boats. You can also attend free outdoor concerts or simply relax under the shade of a tree. Additionally, it is a good place to visit with family as it houses a variety of wildlife, including monitor lizards, turtles, and over 30 species of birds.
8. Erawan Museum
Erawan Museum is a unique museum located in Samut Prakan, a province just outside of Bangkok. The museum is housed in a striking three-headed elephant statue, which stands over 40 meters tall and is made of bronze and copper. It contains a display of ancient art and religious artefacts and presents contemporary Thai art and history.
In addition, there are meditation rooms and a shrine to the Hindu god Brahma. One of the remarkable features of the Erawan Museum is its stained glass ceiling in the elephant’s belly, which depicts the heavens and constellations. Lovers of art and architecture can add Erawan Museum as a must-see place to visit in Bangkok list.
9. Chinatown
Chinatown, also referred to as Yaowarat, is a vibrant district located in the heart of Bangkok. It is home to a large population of Thai-Chinese residents and is popular for its delicious food, rich history, and colourful street culture.
You can shop for traditional Chinese herbs, spices, and goods at a street market. It is a good place to visit in Bangkok to taste delicious street food, with the list including dim sum, roasted duck, seafood, and more.
The place becomes especially lively during the annual Chinese New Year celebrations, when the streets are filled with dragon dances, firecrackers, and street performances. Its Thai-Chinese culture and food, lively energy, and unique atmosphere will certainly leave a lasting impression on you.
10. Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River flows through Bangkok and is around 373 kilometres long. The river is lined with numerous historical and cultural landmarks like Buddhist temples and the Grand Palace. You can take a boat and ride along the river to explore the city’s main sights and the lively market along the riverbank.
Many of the riverfront hotels and restaurants offer spectacular views of the river and are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. The Chao Phraya River is a significant part of Bangkok's history and culture - exploring the river and its landmarks is an essential part of any visit to the city.
11. Safari World
Safari World is an incredible safari park situated on the outskirts of Bangkok. It is certainly a good place to visit in Bangkok for families and animal lovers, and the park's wide range of animals and activities make it a fun and educational destination for visitors of all ages.
Safari World is divided into two main sections – the Safari Park and the Marine Park. You can take a tour of Safari Park and see the animals close up in their natural habitats. Some of the major animals in Safari Park include lions, tigers, giraffes, and more.
The next section – Marine Park – features a variety of marine animals, like dolphins, seals, and more. It also has amusement rides and a plethora of activities that you can do like feeding giraffes, riding elephants, and taking a jungle cruise.
12. Jim Thompson House
Jim Thompson House is a museum and cultural centre that is one of the good places to visit in Bangkok for anyone interested in Thai culture and history. The beautiful gardens of Jim Thompson House are renowned for their architecture and provide a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Bangkok.
Another notable feature is its museum, which is the former home of Jim Thompson, an American businessman and art collector who settled in Bangkok in the 1950s and played a significant role in reviving the silk industry. His house is a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture, with six teakwood buildings that were transported from various parts of Thailand and reassembled on the property.
You can take a guided tour of the house and explore the collection of art, antiques, and artefacts from Thailand. In addition, you can make the most of this beautiful place by participating in various activities like silk weaving, traditional dance performances, cooking classes, and more.
13. Wat Benchamabophit
Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is one of the most stunning and serene temples in Bangkok, making it a must-visit place in Bangkok. The temple is renowned for its impressive architectural design, which combines traditional Thai and European styles.
The main hall of the temple is built entirely of white Carrara marble, giving it a grand and elegant appearance. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple makes it a good place for meditation and relaxation. You can also admire the temple’s stunning gardens, which are maintained and feature a variety of exotic plants and trees.
14. Wat Suthat
Another ideal place to visit in Bangkok is Wat Suthat, which is a well-known temple that gives a glimpse into Thailand's rich history and culture. Apart from the architecture, the temple is known for its intricate murals and statues reflecting a blend of Thai and Chinese styles.
The most notable feature of the place is its gold roof, which can be seen from afar and adds to the temple's grandeur. You can enjoy the peaceful nature of the temple's courtyard and shop at nearby markets like Giant Swing and the lively Sao Ching Cha market.
15. Dusit Palace
The Dusit Palace is a magnificent complex of palaces and gardens that can offer you a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Thai royal family. Built in the 20th century, the place is popular for its architecture, blending traditional Thai and European styles. You can also visit the various buildings within the complex, like Vimanmek Mansion, Throne Hall, and more.
The palace also boasts beautiful gardens and lush greenery, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and picnics. Additionally, the complex is home to the famous Dusit Zoo, which houses a wide variety of exotic animals and is a popular attraction for families.
Why You Should Buy Travel Insurance for Bangkok
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Without the right travel insurance, these situations can result in significant losses, especially if any sort of medical treatment is required, which can be expensive in Thailand. In addition, you can also add various riders to your standard insurance policy - this includes the add-on for adventure sports, which can be highly beneficial if you plan to engage in such activities during your trip.
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On policybazaar.ae, head to the ‘Travel Insurance’ section from the dropdown menu or select the related icon to get the quotes section.
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Wrapping Up
Bangkok is a city with fascinating landmarks and attractions that lure thousands of visitors annually. Whether you want to explore the grandeur of temples, like Wat Benchamabophit and Wat Suthat, or discover the opulence of the Dusit Palace, there is something for everyone in Bangkok. You can taste the delicious street food, shop in bustling streets, and immerse yourself in the local Thai culture.
With that said, planning ahead and being covered against all odds while travelling is essential. The best solution for this is to get the right travel insurance suiting your requirements and budget. It can cover a wide range of scenarios, from trip cancellation to medical emergencies, and secure your trip in the best possible way.
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