14 Things To Do In Bangkok

Bangkok is everything how I would imagine an Asian metropolis to be: massive, busy, loud and full of skyscrapers with traditional temples peeking out between them. I spend four days in the capital of Thailand and I wouldn’t have mind spending another day there. Bangkok may not be the most beautiful city, however I liked the city’s vibe and atmosphere. It is definitely a must-visit city in Asia that offers it’s visitors incredible places to see and to experience. So, here is my list of things to do in Bangkok!

1. Visit the incredible Grand Palace
There are certainly some “must-do’s” when in Bangkok and visiting the Grand Palace is definitely one of them! It’s a beautiful and colorful building and although it’s quite crowded, it will make you feel like royalty. Locals told us that the best time to go would be in the late afternoon.

2. Ride a tuk tuk
Taking a tuk tuk is an adventure already! It’s a fun way (and experience) to get from one point to another in the crazy traffic of Bangkok. Be sure that you don’t get ripped off!

3. Watch the sunset at the Temple of Dawn
Wat Arun, which is better known as the Temple of Dawn, is located along the Chao Phraya River. You can visit this temple during the day. However, it looks the most beautiful at sunset and at night when hundreds of lights turn the Wat Arun golden.

4. Make a day trip to Ayutthaya
If you have enough time, you really have to explore Ayutthaya. It was one of my favorite things to do while visiting Bangkok. Ayutthaya is located just outside of Bangkok and it was the old capital of Thailand. It is full of incredible temples and ruins that will take your breath away.

5. Climb to the top of Wat Saket
Wat Saket is also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount and it’s one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. You have to climb over 300 steps to make it to the top of the 79 meter high mountain. On the way up you will pass a lot of beautiful bells and statues.

6. Go to the Chatuchak Weekend market
If you’re visiting Bangkok during the weekend, then the Chatuchak market should be on your list of things to do. It is probably the biggest market that I have ever been to (and I saw quite a bunch!). There are over 10,000 stalls that cover everything from Thai street food to new and vintage clothing, décor, souvenirs and everything in between.

7. Watch a Muay Thai Boxing Match
If you’re into sports, then you should not miss watching a traditional Muay Thai boxing match. Muay Thai is considered the national sport in Thailand and it’s very popular. The best venues to enjoy a match in Bangkok are the Lumpini and the Rajadamnern stadium.

8. Have a drink at a roof top bar
The most famous roof top bar in Bangkok is without a doubt the Sky bar on the Lebua State Tower, since “Hangover” was shot there. However, Bangkok has numerous incredible alternatives that will have an equally amazing view from above. I went to Above Eleven in the entertainment district Sukhumvit and enjoyed a drink there.

9. Try all kinds of street food
There is so much street food to try, that you could easily spend your whole day just eating your way around Bangkok! You can find delicious Thai street food everywhere you go. Some of my favorites include Pad Thai, Papaya Salad and Mango Sticky Rice. Yumm!

10. Tour the Chao Phraya River
Touring up and down the Chao Phraya River is a great way to have a first look of Bangkok. You can hire a driver with a long-tail boat for your venture or the cheaper option is to simply take the Chao Phraya Express Boat.

11. Shop till you drop
Bangkok is not only home to a lot of markets, but also to several big shopping malls. The high-priced Siam Paragon, the Siam Center and the MBK Center are all popular choices and close to each other. You can discover some great Asian brands and make some bargains.

12. Visit the impressive Wat Pho temple
Next to the Grand Palace is another of Bangkoks impressive attractions: the massive golden Reclining Buddha. It’s so big that you can’t really capture it’s size in a picture. Also, make sure to walk around the beautiful surrounding area.

13. Wander around Chinatown
And suddenly you’re in China! It’s like a entirely new world in the midst of Bangkok. Everything is written in Chinese, you can eat Chinese specialities and buy Chinese stuff. Just walk around the the chaotic and vibrant streets of Chinatown.

14. Experience the night life of Bangkok
Bangkok has a pulsating night life that is happening right on the streets. Khao San Road is known as the backpackers district with lots of bars and clubs while the Patpong Night Market that is situated near Silom Road, is famous for it’s red light district. Sukhumvit Road, which is the longest street of Bangkok, is another popular entertainment district.

Have you been to Bangkok? What are your favorite things to do?

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