No matter your travel style, Bangkok has something for you. We packed our days with temples, street food, boat rides, and shopping—and still felt like we’d only scratched the surface. If you’re planning your trip, here’s a curated list of the best things to do in Bangkok for every kind of traveler
For First-Time Visitors
1. Visit the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok’s most iconic landmark, home to the revered Emerald Buddha and jaw-dropping architecture. When visiting the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, many travelers like bringing a compact selfie stick tripod like this one so they can easily capture photos without asking strangers. To skip the guesswork you can book a guided Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew tour.
2. Explore Wat Pho and its Reclining Buddha
Just nearby, this temple is home to a 150-foot-long golden Buddha and traditional Thai massage schools. View our experience with the Reclining Buddha, watch now 📼 !
3. Take a Longtail Boat Through the Canals (Khlongs)
Get a peek into traditional riverside life on a peaceful boat ride through Bangkok’s historic Thonburi side.
4. Watch the Sunset at Wat Arun
The Temple of Dawn glows beautifully at dusk, especially when viewed from across the river. For travelers who want high-quality photos and videos during the Sunset at Wat Arun, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a popular choice among content creators and travel photographers.
For Foodies
5. Feast at Yaowarat Road in Chinatown
This street is a night market haven packed with Michelin-rated stalls and local favorites.
6. Take a Thai Cooking Class
Learn how to whip up classics like pad thai and mango sticky rice—with a market tour included.
7. Sample Street Food at Victory Monument
Less touristy than other spots, this area is beloved by locals for authentic Thai dishes at bargain prices. Sampling local cuisine is always exciting, but maintaining good oral hygiene while traveling is just as important, which is why many travelers pack a portable water flosser like this one.
For Shoppers
8. Spend a Day at Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the largest markets in the world—perfect for souvenirs, clothes, art, and unexpected treasures. It’s situated on 35 acres and about 15,000 stalls so wear comfortable shoes. And because of that many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for walking around Chatuchak Market.
9. Wander Through IconSiam Mall
Luxury meets local at this riverside mega mall with Thai street food zones and global brands. Visit the Luxury IconSiam Mall with us in our travel vlog, click to watch 📼!
10. Browse the Stalls at Talad Rot Fai (Train Market)
Vintage finds, quirky bars, and retro vibes make this night market a must-see.
For Culture & History Buffs
11. Visit Jim Thompson House
Explore the beautifully preserved home of the American who helped revive Thailand’s silk industry. Experience Jim Thompson House in person. For travelers who enjoy documenting their adventures, a tiny wearable camera like this one makes it easy to capture hands-free POV footage while exploring Jim Thompson House.
12. Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya
Just an hour away, this UNESCO-listed ancient capital is filled with crumbling temples and giant Buddhas. If you’d rather leave the logistics to someone else, you can join a small-group Ayutthaya day trip with a river cruise.
13. Watch a Traditional Muay Thai Fight
Catch a match at Rajadamnern or Lumpinee Stadium for an adrenaline-pumping night.
For Relaxation Seekers
14. Book a Thai Massage or Spa Treatment
Whether it’s a budget foot rub or luxury full-body pampering, Bangkok is massage heaven. We booked a Thai Massage when we arrived in Thailand, after our 18 hour flight from the U.S. watch now 📼!
15. Chill at Lumpini Park
This lush green space is a favorite for early morning jogs, paddle boating, or just people-watching. Travelers spending time at Lumpini Park often bring a spray insect repellent like this one to help keep bugs away during long evenings outside.
For Adventure Lovers
16. Ride in a Tuk-Tuk at Night
Hold on tight for a thrilling ride through the city’s glowing streets—just agree on a price first!
If you plan on staying out late and riding in a Tuk-Tuk at night, a rechargeable personal safety alarm like this one can be a helpful travel safety accessory to keep in your pocket or purse which you can use to draw attention in case you ever feel uncomfortable.
17. Explore the Bang Krachao “Green Lung”
Rent a bike and cruise through this surprisingly quiet, jungle-like escape right in the heart of Bangkok.
18. Visit Safari World or SEA LIFE Bangkok (Great for Families Too)
Wildlife experiences in the city with everything from giraffes to sharks.
For Nightlife Enthusiasts
19. Have Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
Try Vertigo, Sky Bar, or Octave for panoramic views and photo-worthy sunsets. Just like many travelers recommend, you can carry an ultimate travel action camera like this for capturing stunning photos and videos of the sunsets at a Rooftop Bar.
20. Watch a Cabaret Show
The Calypso Cabaret blends glam, humor, and dancing into one unforgettable evening.
21. Take a Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
Enjoy Thai cuisine and live music while gliding past illuminated temples and city lights. We had the best time on the Dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, check out the video now 📼! If you want to plan your own evening, you can reserve a Chao Phraya River dinner cruise.
After enjoying Thai cuisine, many travelers like using a travel-size mouthwash like this one to keep their breath fresh throughout the rest of the day.
Things To Do In Bangkok
Bangkok has a way of giving you exactly what you’re looking for—whether that’s history, flavor, adventure, or a bit of luxury. There’s never a dull moment, and the real magic is often found between the big sights. Planning more of your Thailand trip? Dive into our Bangkok in 3 days itinerary or discover Is Bangkok Worth Visiting blogs.
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