14 Fun Things to Do in Bangkok for First-Time Visitors
Thinking about a trip to Bangkok? This city is full of great food, incredible landmarks, and neighborhoods that feel completely different from one another. You can go from quiet temples to busy markets to river views all in the same day.
In today’s post, I’m sharing some of my favorite things to do in Bangkok. These stops are easy to fit into most itineraries and give you a good feel for what makes the city so interesting to explore.
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1. Visit the Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace is usually the first major landmark travelers visit in Bangkok, and it makes a strong first impression. The complex includes more than 100 buildings, each decorated with details you’ll want time to actually look at rather than rush through.
Arrive right when the gates open and head straight to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha before the crowds build. Plan on spending at least two hours here. And there is a strict dress code… shoulders and knees must be covered… no exceptions, and scarves or wraps won’t be accepted… so dress accordingly or be prepared to rent clothing at the entrance.
Check out tours to the Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
2. Explore Wat Pho & the Reclining Buddha
Wat Pho is home to the famous Reclining Buddha, which fills the entire hall from edge to edge. The soles of the Buddha’s feet are decorated with mother-of-pearl designs, and they’re easy to miss if you don’t walk all the way around.
Outside, the temple grounds are peaceful and very photogenic, with rows of colorful chedis and shaded areas to wander. This is also where Thailand’s most well-known massage school is located, so you can book a traditional Thai massage right on-site if you want to take a break.
3. Ride the Ferry to Wat Arun
Boats run constantly, and the ride is only a couple of minutes to reach Wat Arun. The temple is known for its tall central tower covered in porcelain tiles, which you can see up close by climbing partway up.
Wat Arun looks great throughout the day, but late afternoon is especially nice for photos. If you want a wider view of the temple, visit one of the cafés on the opposite riverbank — they have some of the best angles.
4. Take a Boat Ride Along the Chao Phraya River
A boat ride on the Chao Phraya is an easy way to see more of Bangkok without dealing with traffic. You’ll pass temples, homes on stilts, modern buildings, and small side canals that show a very different side of the city.
You can ride the inexpensive public boat, book a hop-on-hop-off tourist ferry, or hire a long-tail boat if you want to explore the canals. It’s simple, affordable, and a good way to get your bearings.
Another great option is to take a nighttime dinner cruise! Not only will you get a great meal with a view of the city, but many cruises also include dance shows and live music.
5. Wander Through Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Chinatown is one of the busiest and most interesting neighborhoods in Bangkok. During the day, the streets are filled with markets, gold shops, and stores tucked into narrow lanes. In the evening, food vendors take over, and the entire area becomes a street food hotspot.
If you’re adventurous with food, you’ll find everything from dim sum to seafood to desserts here. A guided food tour is a great option if you’re not sure where to start.
6. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport, and watching a match is a must! Rajadamnern Stadium and Lumpinee Stadium are the two main places to see fights, and both offer a variety of seating options. I also took a Muay Thai class while I was in Thailand and really enjoyed it, so if you’re curious about trying it yourself, there are plenty of beginner-friendly gyms to choose from!
7. Explore the Nightlife on Khao San Road
Khao San Road is known for its bars, food stalls, loud music, and constant activity. If you’re in the mood for a lively night out, this is one of the easiest places to go, and it’s always full of travelers.
Even if you don’t plan to stay out late, it’s worth walking through once to see what it’s like.
8. Shop and Snack at Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you’re visiting over a weekend, Chatuchak Market is a great spot to explore. It’s massive, with thousands of stalls selling clothing, art, home goods, plants, souvenirs, and plenty of food.
Go earlier in the day when it’s a little cooler, and bring cash. The market is easy to get lost in, but that’s part of the fun.
9. Visit ICONSIAM
ICONSIAM is one of Bangkok’s largest shopping centers, and it’s a good place to cool off and grab something to eat. There are high-end stores, local brands, cafés, and an indoor floating market-style area with a huge selection of food.
The building sits right along the river, so you can walk outside for nice views as well.
11. Visit the Jim Thompson House
This museum is located inside a traditional Thai-style teakwood home surrounded by gardens. Inside, you’ll find artwork, antiques, and pieces connected to Thailand’s silk industry.
The story of Jim Thompson’s disappearance is part of the tour, which adds an unexpected twist to the visit.
12. Visit the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC)
The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, photography, and design. It’s an easy indoor stop and pairs well with the nearby shopping centers.
There are small cafés and gift shops throughout the building if you want to take a break.
13. Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is about an hour from Bangkok and is filled with historic ruins and temples. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and many of the structures are well preserved.
The Buddha head wrapped in tree roots is the most well-known photo spot here. I did a half-day tour and really enjoyed it — it’s easy to add to your schedule.
14. Explore Bangkok’s Markets (Night Markets + Floating Markets)
Bangkok is known for its markets, and you can easily visit a few during your trip.
Night markets:
Jodd Fairs is popular for food and shopping. Whereas Asiatique sits along the river and has a Ferris wheel. Talad Rot Fai train market offers vintage items and live music.
Floating markets:
Damnoen Saduak is the most famous and very lively. Amphawa has a more local feel and stays open into the evening. For something closer to the city, Khlong Lat Mayom and Bang Nam Phueng are great options.
Where We Stayed
We used our Marriott points to stay at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. It was an absolutely AMAZING stay and a great use of our points! While the hotel itself was beautiful, it was really how wonderful the staff were that made this stay unforgettable. Plus, they had one of the best breakfasts that we have ever had (we’re still dreaming about it!).
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