tourism in bangkok

Bangkok Tourism Guide

The insider's guide and essential travel planner.

A s a gateway to Thailand’s many beautiful islands and beaches, Bangkok has become one of the world’s most visited cities . The Thai capital is a vibrant and frenetic place , offering non-stop action and constantly dazzling visitors with a variety of sights, sounds, and scents. It can be overwhelming, as it assaults the senses with majestic temples, flavorful cuisine and pungent street food, an exhilarating nightlife, and reinvigorating massages. It’s an exuberant and exotic destination with much to explore, from busy roads lined with food stalls and huge shopping malls, to towering skyscrapers topped with rooftop bars offering stunning views and signature cocktails. This is your illustrated guide to planning your most memorable experiences, with insider tips to help you find the real city.

BANGKOK HIGHLIGHTS - 5 REASONS TO GO

1. Fairytale architecture in magnificent temples with some of the world’s most monumental Buddha images. 2. The world’s highest and most spectacular rooftop bars . 3. Some of the world’s biggest street markets . 4. One of the world’s best cuisines and the most varied street food . 5. A world-(in)famous nightlife for all tastes.

First time in Bangkok?

Helpful insider tips to plan the perfect days in the city:.

The Best Neighborhoods Know where to stay

Top 10 Attractions What you must see and do

Bangkok in 1, 2, or 3 Days Suggested itineraries

Bangkok Tours The most popular tours and activities

Top 25 Rooftop Bars The world's most spectacular rooftops

Transportation Know how to get around Bangkok

Advance planning -- know before you go.

WHEN TO GO : Bangkok is a year-round destination, but its tropical climate is more pleasant at different times of the year. No matter when you go, it will be hot and humid, but the cooler days are between November and January (December is the coolest, with average high temperatures reaching 26°C/79°F). Take an umbrella between May and November, as that’s the unpredictable rainier season, but it will still be warm and the rains rarely last more than one or two hours at a time. The highest temperatures happen between March and May, with April being the hottest and most uncomfortable month (the average high is 35°C/95°F). The peak tourist season is December and January. In April you’ll catch the Thai New Year celebrations, while in May you’ll see candlelight processions around important temples, marking Buddha’s Enlightenment. Another major event is the Golden Mount Fair in November, with performances and processions at the foot of the Golden Mount .

VISAS : Citizens from the United States, Australia, and most of Europe can enter Thailand without a pre-arranged visa. You’ll be allowed to stay for 30 days, but those wishing to stay longer can acquire a 60-day tourist visa from a Thai embassy or consulate prior to arrival. You should do that about one month before your departure date.

BOOKINGS : You should book your hotel about three months in advance for the most popular luxury or boutique hotels , especially if you’re staying in December or January. Not only will you have a better chance of getting the preferred room, you’ll also have the best rates. If you’re interested in a tour , book it one week before. If you’re wondering where you should book your room, see our guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Bangkok .

HOW MANY DAYS IN BANGKOK ? Although many people stay in Bangkok for just two or three days, before or after the Thai beach resort experience, it’s not uncommon for visitors to extend their time to as much as one week or more. You can see the main sights in just two days, but, with its many rooftop pools and bars, spas and massages, Bangkok is also a city for relaxation and pampering, not meant to be rushed. For the full experience, plan at least five days in the city.

WHAT’S NEW IN BANGKOK IN 2022?

The COVID-19 pandemic has put many projects on hold around the world, including in Bangkok, but there are still new attractions in the city to enjoy in 2022. Despite the devastating effects of the pandemic on the travel industry, Bangkok has inaugurated two major new hotels, both located in the same compound on the riverfront. Those are the luxurious Capella Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok . Also new is Paradise Lost, a tropical-inspired and eco-friendly rooftop bar at the design hotel Siam@Siam . Then there’s the city’s ever-expanding transport network. After the new stations of the MRT (the underground metro), which now offer faster connections to popular neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Old City (and they are some quite beautiful stations, especially Wat Mangkon Station, which is decorated with traditional Chinese motifs), come new stations for the BTS Skytrain, although these are on the northbound Sukhumvit line, outside the typical tourist areas. The MRT has also introduced Thailand’s first underground museum, at the Sanam Chai station. It’s a free and very informative exhibition, with artifacts unearthed during the station’s construction, mostly related to the area’s ancient palaces.

OFFICIAL BANGKOK TOURISM OFFICE

BangkokTourismGuide.com has everything you need to plan your visit to Bangkok. Written by tourism experts, it offers complete and unbiased information, and is entirely independent, not associated with any local business, organization or institution. It’s an insider’s guide which you may print, creating a guidebook to take around the city with you. In case of any last-minute doubts when you arrive, look for the official tourism office at Suvarnabhumi Airport, open 24 hours on the arrivals floor. In the center of the city, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has a tourist office on 1600 New Phechatburi Road, close to the Phetchaburi station of the MRT subway and the Makkasan station of the Airport Rail Link.

Bangkok Guide:

Bangkok accommodation.

Top 10 Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Budget Hotels

Boutique Hotels

Design Hotels

Central Hotels

Hotels with Pool

Hotels with Views

Riverfront Hotels

Romantic Hotels

Family-Friendly Hotels

Airport Hotels

Bangkok Attractions

Top 10 Temples

Floating Markets

River Cruises

Parks & Gardens

Romantic Bangkok

Massages & Spas

Gay/LGBT Bangkok

Bangkok Transportation

Getting Around

Airport Transportation

Bangkok Neighborhoods

Siam & Ratchaprasong

Silom & Riverside

Covid-19 Pandemic in Bangkok and Thailand - Travel Advisory

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bangkok is everything you'd expect from the capital of Thailand: it's noisy, crowded, colorful, exciting, infuriating, and simply magical. Bangkok is a microcosm of what makes Thailand so special. Centuries-old temples and ancient sites sit side by side with 21st-century shopping malls that have a kitschy, yet high-end ambience. Bangkok can be overwhelming, but it's also a fascinating city that represents Southeast Asia's tension between the developed and developing worlds.

Bangkok also serves as a gateway to many other parts of Thailand . From here, you can hop a short flight to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and other popular destinations. You can also board a train or hop on a bus for little money, and visit national treasures such as Ayutthaya , Lopburi, and many other gems around the country.

Discover the best things to do in this bustling city with our list of the top attractions in Bangkok.

1. Admire the Beauty of the Grand Palace

3. wat arun, 4. wat traimit, temple of the golden buddha, 5. wat suthat, 6. giant swing, 7. national museum & wang na palace, 8. stock up on authentic souvenirs at chatuchak market, 9. shop by boat at the damnoen saduak floating market, 10. discover khao san road, 11. jim thompson house, 12. walk around lumpini park, 13. shop at terminal 21, 14. experience street food stalls, 15. take a river cruise, 16. step inside the temple of the emerald buddha, 17. pass through wat mahathat, 18. explore chinatown, 19. ride the skytrain, 20. shop at iconsiam, 21. take a muay thai lesson, 22. visit kalayanamit, 23. indulge at a spa, 24. check into a luxury hotel, where to stay in bangkok for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to bangkok, map of tourist attractions in bangkok, best time to visit bangkok, thailand.

If you only visit one major historical tourist attraction in Bangkok, this should be the one. The royal compound lives up to its name, with spectacular structures that would put the most decadent modern monarchs to shame.

Built in 1782, the grand palace was the royal residence for generations and is still used for important ceremonies and accommodating heads of state. Dress modestly when visiting the Grand Palace, which basically means covering your arms and legs and avoiding any sloppy attire.

To avoid any hassle and to make the most of your visit, take the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Tour . This is a half-day sightseeing tour, either morning or afternoon, with pickup from your hotel and a local guide to put what you are seeing in context. Without a guide, it's easy to miss important features or not fully understand the relevance of what you are seeing, and the hotel pickup makes the whole experience that much simpler.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon

• Read More: Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide

Located immediately south of the Grand Palace precinct, Wat Pho makes an excellent addition to your palace tour, provided your feet are up for more walking.

The temple was built by King Rama I and is the oldest in Bangkok. It has long been considered a place of healing, and was famous centuries ago for its pharmacy and as Thailand's first "university"-both established by King Rama III. You can get a Thai or foot massage at the traditional medical school on the premises, but the prices are significantly higher than what you will find at massage parlors elsewhere in the city.

Today Wat Pho is best known for the Temple of the Reclining Buddha , where you'll find a statue so big (45 meters long and 15 meters high), it cannot be viewed in its entirety but only appreciated in sections. The soles of the feet, inlaid with a myriad of precious stones, are particularly beautiful. Look also for the long earlobes signifying noble birth, and the lotus-bud configuration of the hand to symbolize purity and beauty.

Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District

Wat Arun is something of a triumphant complex, dating back to the time of ancient battles between the former Siam and Burma. Having fallen to the Burmese, Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble and ashes, but General Taksin and the remaining survivors vowed to march "until the sun rose again" and to build a temple here. Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, was that temple. It is where the new king later built his royal palace and a private chapel.

If you climb to the top of the prang just before sunset, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable view as the sun sinks over the Chao Praya River. Even if you don't plan on doing any climbing, sunset is really the time to take in this place in all its glory.

Address: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok

Sheer luck (or lack thereof) makes this attraction special. During the 1950s, the East Asiatic Company purchased the land around the temple.

A condition of the sale was the removal of a plaster statue of Buddha, but the statue proved too heavy for the crane being used. The cable parted and the figure was dropped, being left overnight where it fell. It happened to be in the rainy season, and when next morning some monks walked past, they noticed a glint of gold shining through the plaster. The coating was removed, revealing a 3.5-meter Buddha cast from 5.5 tons of solid gold.

All attempts to trace the origin of this priceless statue have so far failed, but it is assumed to date from the Sukhothai period, when marauding invaders threatened the country and its treasures, and it became common practice to conceal valuable Buddha figures beneath a coating of plaster. No one knows how it came to Bangkok, but here it stands, available for the admiration of visitors from all over the world.

Wat Suthat, adjacent to the Great Swing , is one of the oldest and most beautiful of Bangkok's Buddhist temples. Three kings had a hand in its construction: it was begun soon after the coronation of Rama I (founder of the Chakri dynasty) in 1782, continued by Rama II, and completed 10 years later by Rama III.

Apart from its delightful architecture, the temple boasts some exceptionally interesting wall paintings. Wat Suthat is less popular than some of the other temple complexes in the city, so you'll enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience here.

Address: Bamrung Muang Road, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon

In the center of the busy square in front of Wat Suthat stands one of Bangkok's most eye-catching sights: the 27-meter-high teak frame of the so-called Giant Swing. Built in the 1700s to be used as part of traditional Brahmin (Hinduist) ceremonies, the swing was later damaged by lightning and became just decorative.

This used to be the focus of a religious ceremony held every year in December after the rice harvest. Teams of three took turns to balance on a dangerously narrow board and be swung 25 meters or more off the ground "up to Heaven," at which point they would attempt to catch a bag of silver coins in their teeth. King Rama VII banned the contest in 1932, following a number of fatal accidents.

History buffs will want to devote at least half a sightseeing day to the national museum. Until the mid-1970s, this was Thailand's only museum, which explains why its collection is so big and diverse.

Fortunately, just about every exhibit is labeled in Thai and English and guided tours are also offered in English, so you won't miss out on any of the country's fascinating ancient and contemporary history.

King Rama I's Wang Na Palace, located within the grounds of the museum, remains essentially as it was, and stands as a testament to Thai history. Visitors can see regalia, religious and ceremonial artifacts, ceramics, games, weaponry, musical instruments, and the Viceroy's throne, as well as an impressive collection of Buddha figures arranged according to period.

Address: Na Phra That Road, Bangkok

This sprawling semi-outdoor weekend market is the largest in the world and one of the top things to do when visiting Bangkok. Shoppers can find everything from jewelry and religious icons to pet supplies, paper lamps, and delicious street food here. Chatuchak Market is home to over 15,000 stalls offering just about anything you can dream up-even better, any souvenir you might want is probably available here at a much cheaper price than anywhere else in Bangkok.

This is a great place to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in everyday Thai life, so arrive early and clear your schedule for the rest of the day if you want to do this place justice.

The market is adjacent to the Kamphaengpecth Station (MRT), about a five-minute walk from Mochit Skytrain (BTS) Station and Suan Chatuchak (Chatuchak Park) Station (MRT)

For an even more interesting market experience, you can arrange a tour to Damnoen Saduak, a famous floating market located in Ratchaburi (about 1.5 hours outside Bangkok). The popularity of floating markets once earned Bangkok the nickname "Venice of the East."

Keep in mind that floating markets are now highly touristic enterprises, so don't expect an exclusive morning of shopping by boat – but you will be able to buy fresh and delicious foods and interact with locals in an authentic way.

The best way to reach the market is to join a tour such as the Floating Markets Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok , which takes about six hours and includes pickup right from your hotel and transport in an air-conditioned coach.

This is Bangkok's infamous backpacker district, a neighborhood jam-packed with guesthouses, food vendors, clothing stalls, and travelers from every corner of the globe. You'll need to tap into your patience when hanging out here, because while it is colorful and exciting in its own way, the crowds and scents and blaring music can test even the calmest soul.

All that said, Khao San Road is also a great place to pick up a few pairs of baggy fisherman pants, the perennial staple of every backpacker's wardrobe when trekking through Thailand; browse the treasures in a used bookstore; and dig into some delicious Indian food from a neighborhood restaurant.

The historic home of a "self-made American entrepreneur" who disappeared while traveling in Malaysia now stands as a relic of an older time in Bangkok. Jim Thompson settled in Thailand after spending time there as a serviceman around the end of WWII and quickly became a well-known name in the Thai silk industry.

Thompson was awarded the Order of the White Elephant, an important honor given to foreigners who have made significant contributions to Thailand. Thompson's home has been turned into a museum offering insights into his life and business, as well as the history of the city and the Thai silk industry.

Address: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok

Lumpini Park provides visitors with a green oasis amid the traffic and chaos of Bangkok. Hang out on one of several lawn areas, enjoy the shade of a Chinese pagoda, or take a boat out on the lake. Lumpini Park is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying the contrast of the tranquil park with the skyscrapers rising all around it.

Note that the park has been the site of anti-government protests that have occasionally turned violent in the past, so be sure to check on the current political situation before visiting. Keep an eye out for the massive Asian water monitors as well-they can often be found taking a stroll around the lake.

Location: Rama IV Road, between Ratchadamri and Witthayu (Wireless) roads

Don't let the airport-like name fool you. This shopping mall is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok if you're looking for a mix of local and international brands, as well as plenty of unique buys.

Terminal 21 is unique in more ways than one – even by Thailand's shopping standards. Every floor of the mall has been themed to a different international city. Enter at the level of the BTS station and you'll be in Paris; go up a floor and it's Tokyo; another floor and you're staring at the iconic red phone booths of London. The Caribbean, San Francisco, and Istanbul also figure into the design theme.

Other malls of note include the high-end Siam Paragon , and adjacent Siam Discovery , which has more moderately priced chains; fun cafés; and the super luxurious Virgin Active Siam Discovery , self-dubbed "the largest gym in Southeast Asia." Here, visitors can rock climb, try anti-gravity yoga, or visit the unique "Sleep Pod" rooms for the ultimate in relaxation.

To really experience Bangkok, you have to try the local cuisine. You haven't really "done" the city without chowing down on grilled meats and fish, spicy noodles, fresh fruit, and curries. If you think you know Thai food, you're in for a surprise. Whatever you've tried before is nothing like the dishes you'll find here.

You'll have no trouble at all finding vendors to tempt you with treats all around Bangkok and help you live through a quintessential Thailand experience, tucking into a delicious (if mysterious) meal, surrounded by the chaos and heat of the city.

Surprisingly, some of the best street food in Bangkok is on Khao San Road – both in the little stalls lining up the street and in the small shacks and restaurants just off the main road selling pad Thai, pad see ew, and mango sticky rice.

The Chao Phraya River is Bangkok's heartline. Known as the "river of kings," this major waterway will allow you to discover some of the city's most stunning temples and monuments from a completely new angle.

In the evening, you can jump on a dinner cruise to see the lit-up city skyline as you sail along the Grand Palace and Wat Arun and under the Rama VIII Bridge.

During the day, take advantage of Bangkok's many ferries and express boats, which depart from Sathorn Pier and will stop right at the ports of major tourist attractions, including Wat Arun and Ratchawongse. Local canal boats (khlong Saen Saep) are used by the locals to commute to work and are a great way to see the real Bangkok, as the boats zigzag through small canals and behind residential buildings.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or Wat Phra Kaew, is located on the grounds of Bangkok's Grand Palace. It is regarded as one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the Kingdom of Thailand. The temple itself is simply spectacular, as is the Buddha statue itself, which is carved out of bright green jade.

For such a massive reputation, significance, and shrine, the statue itself is rather small. But it has been sitting on its perch since 1784. Hundreds of thousands of tourists and pilgrims pass through the gates to the temple every hear in order to view the statue.

Prior to taking up residence here at the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha traveled for centuries across Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka to Cambodia and Laos. It was one of the most important treasures for King Rama I, who reigned from 1782 to 1809. In fact, when the capital of Thailand was moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, it was partly done so that this statue had a permanent home.

Not far from the Grand Palace is one of the most important temples in Thailand: Wat Mahathat. Not to be confused with the temple of the same name in the historic city of Ayutthaya, Bangkok's Wat Mahathat is deeply significant to the culture and history of Thailand – in fact, it is the final resting place of King Rama IX.

The temple was constructed before the city of Bangkok was founded. Built in 1782, today it is home to one of the largest schools of Buddhism, dedicated to the Mahanikai school, Thailand's largest monastic order.

The temple complex is rather large and may appear confusing, as it is home to several school buildings and offices, but if you press on towards the center, you'll find the temples, which are packed with golden images and statues of Buddha. In fact, it has one of the largest collections of Buddha's image than most other temples in Bangkok.

Of Bangkok's many colorful and diverse neighborhoods, Chinatown stands out as one of its most exciting. In fact, Bangkok's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, and, as it so happens, one of the best.

The main artery of Chinatown is Yaowarat Road. This energetic thoroughfare and its side streets are slammed with restaurants, food carts, gold stores, cafés, herb shops, fruit stalls, and so much more. If you've come to Chinatown to eat, then you'll want to wait until the sun sets, when the entire neighborhood explodes with food stalls overflowing with mouthwatering treats.

Chinatown is slowly revamping, as well. Today you'll find more "fine dining" dim sum houses and swanky hotels than before. Still, the energy is always swirling and chaotic, but it's always one of the most beautiful parts of Bangkok.

Bangkok is famous for many things, and one of them, unfortunately, is the traffic. To go a short distance can sometimes take upwards of half an hour. Fortunately, visitors to Bangkok have a very easy, convenient, and time-efficient option: the Bangkok Skytrain.

Bangkok's BTS Skytrain is truly a game changer. It opened in 1999 and has quickly become the most popular way to get around the city. Travelers love it for its speed, cleanliness, air-conditioning, and price.

The Skytrain does not go everywhere in the city, but it does cover two of the most important areas: Sukhumvit and Silom. Silom will take you from the National Stadium through Silom and Sathorn and out to Bang Wa in the suburbs. Th Sukhumvit line will run from Mo Chit in the north to the eastern province of Samut Prakan.

You can purchase individual tickets, or use a Rabbit Card, which is a pre-paid card that can be loaded as often as you need it.

The BTS Skytrain is absolutely better than sitting in Bangkok traffic, but just be aware that it does not go everywhere in the city, and it stops running at midnight.

Bangkok loves its luxury shopping centers, but none is as popular (or large) as the riverfront ICONSIAM. Perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the 750,000-square-meter mega-mall is a destination in its own right.

The mall is divided into three main sections: ICONSIAM, ICONLUXE, and Siam Takashimaya. Inside each section are further zones that have been designated to highlight parts of Thailand's culture and design. SookSiam, for example, has brought together art, culture, tradition, and food from its many different provinces. It houses more than 3,000 local businesses from all over Thailand.

The facility also has seven dining zones, outdoor park space, and retail devoted to fashion, beauty, health & fitness, Thai crafts, and more. Visiting ICONSIAM is so much more than a day of shopping. It really is a Bangkok (and Thailand) experience.

Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600

Official site: https://www.iconsiam.com/th

Thailand's national martial art, Muay Thai, is famous around the world. Also known as "Thai boxing," the combat sport is known as the "art of eight limbs" because it uses combinations of shins, knees, elbows, and fists.

It's a complicated and challenging sport, but those who practice are devoted to the art. If you're coming to Bangkok, it is the perfect place to get your feet wet in the sport and learn from those who have mastered it.

Many gyms across Thailand, but in Bangkok in particular, offer May Thai training. It is a mecca for May Thai fans, where you will find the best stadiums, gyms, and gear. Bu you'll also find gyms suited to beginners, as well.

Gazing across the Chao Phraya River at Wat Arun, another beautiful, sprawling temple complex may catch your eye. What you're looking at is Wat Kalayanamit. This historic temple was founded in 1825 by a nobleman and a friend of King Rama III.

The most eye-catching structure from across the river is the ordination hall, inside of which sits a massive Buddha image. It is one of the largest images of Buddha in the city. The temple is a combination of both Chinese and Thai architecture, including chedis, pavilions, and statues.

Though not one of the most-visited temples by tourists, it is certainly beautiful and worth a visit because of its historic architecture, the massive Buddha statue, and a 13-ton bell in the bell tower, which is the largest bronze bell in Thailand. It is still an active temple, as well, with monks that live on the site.

One of the many things Thailand is famous for is its affordable spa culture. Whether it's a casual pop-in for a stretchy Thai massage or a full-on day of bliss at a luxury spa, Bangkok has a facility to fill whatever you're looking for.

A traditional Thai massage is the best introduction into Thai spa culture. This style of massage has been around for more than 2,000 years. It's a dry massage, meaning it does not use oils. Instead, the therapists use stretching and rocking techniques to improve flexibility, relieve tension and promote blood circulation.

Thai massage can be used to help alleviate many ailments, from headaches and back pain to flexibility and joint stiffness. You can find affordable Thai massage parlors all over the city of Bangkok. Most massages will be less than 300 Thai baht.

Or you can check into some of the more high-end options for entire menus of treatments, body scrubs, and wraps. Clinique La Prairie, for example, has opened a new treatment center in Bangkok in The St. Regis Bangkok . This wellness center combines both wellness programs with nutrition and medicine to help patients achieve a more well-rounded, balanced life.

Speaking of high-end and luxury, if you can swing a stay at one of Bangkok's many luxury hotels it will be a game-changing experience. Bangkok has no shortage of opulent five-star hotels, from the historic and classic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok to the sleek, chic, newer Capella Bangkok .

Bangkok has plenty of budget-friendly options and hotels across the spectrum, but there is something about a luxury hotel stay in Bangkok that truly makes the experience magical. Many five-star hotels in Bangkok have world-renowned restaurants, like the two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie by Alain Roux at the Mandarin Oriental. Others have fabulous spas, gorgeous pools, and rooms with spectacular views.

Whether on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, or overlooking Lumpini Park, Bangkok has dozens of five-star hotels that will make your visit a trip to remember.

Bangkok is a big city with many areas where visitors can stay and still have good access to sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Many of the top-end hotels are in the historic Riverside area. Not far away, budget-minded travelers and backpackers often frequent the Khao San Road area, which lies in close proximity to some of the major sites, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra, Wat Pho, and museums.

Sukhumvit is a more modern area with good shopping and easy access to other parts of the city on the Skytrain. This is a good place to find mid-range hotels. Below are some popular hotels in these key areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the best hotels in Bangkok is the ultra-posh Mandarin Oriental in Riverside, with a great location, beautiful pools, and several restaurants, including the Riverside Terrace overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
• Still luxurious but more affordable is the SO/ Bangkok , with great rooms and amenities in a decent location.
• For luxury accommodation in Sukhumvit, the popular boutique hotel, Ariyasomvilla , is a good choice with a variety of room styles, all tastefully decorated. This is a modern hotel with old-world charm in a tranquil setting with a lovely pool and grounds.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A more reasonably priced option in Riverside is the Chatrium Hotel Riverside , overlooking the river. This hotel has a beautiful infinity pool and several restaurants.
• The Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers offers well-appointed rooms and world-class service at a very affordable price. There's also two outdoor pools and five on-site restaurants to enjoy here.
• Also popular is the Glow Pratunam , with a convenient location and decent prices.

Budget Hotels :

• For location, it's hard to beat the Adamaz House , just a short walk off Khao San Road and close to some of the city's most important attractions. The hotel has basic but clean rooms.
• The Phranakorn-Nornlen is a very popular budget to mid-range hotel with a good location and a bed-and-breakfast feel.
• Located in Sukhumvit is the Smart Suites , with budget prices and quality rooms.
• Consider a Tour: To spare yourself the trouble of bargaining for everything and trying to find a taxi that will actually take you where you want to go, a guided tour might be the most practical option. It will save you both time and aggravation-and you'll also get the benefit of having a knowledgeable guide along for the adventure. To see the most famous temples, including the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, take a Private Guided Temples Tour .
• Be Prepared to Bargain : This applies as much to taxi rides as market shopping. Taxi drivers in Bangkok are notorious for overcharging, so agree on a price before getting in. You can also insist that they use their meter, but then watch it carefully to make sure it's not jumping around, as some have been rigged to run faster than they should.
• Take Advantage of Public Transportation : Even with an honest cabbie, rides can get expensive in Bangkok's traffic. Bangkok has a good public transportation system, with both above-ground and underground trains covering a good portion of the city. Buses can take a while because of traffic jams, but trains provide a quick, easy, and cheap way to get around. The system is user-friendly, very affordable, and takes little time to figure out, so take advantage of it while you're in town.
• Be Prepared for the Brutal Heat . There's no sea breeze here to help with the burning temperatures, and no break from the humidity when you're walking the streets of Bangkok. So if you're out for the day, plan on mixing some indoor shopping along the way for some air-conditioned relief. Stay hydrated at all times and wear plenty of sunblock. Choose cotton and linen clothing and grab an umbrella or hat when you're at Chatuchak Market for some extra sun protection.
• Watch Out for Scams: As mentioned above, taxi drivers often try to overcharge or insist that their meters don't work. Use your judgment and walk away from anyone who doesn't seem trustworthy. Another scam to watch out for involves a driver or supposed tour guide who agrees to take you one place and starts making stops along the way, usually at a gem store or a tailor. Drivers get a commission when they bring in tourists, but these places are often overpriced and not worth visiting. Insist that the driver takes you to your original destination, or tell them you're leaving. This will usually get things back on track, but if it doesn't, you'll find another cab quickly enough.

Bangkok's weather is tropical all year-round, which translates to long, hot days no matter what time of the year you arrive. If you'd like a bit of a break in temperatures (high 20s instead of high 30s Celsius), December and January are the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise . But overall, you will not be disappointed with the weather if you visit Bangkok between November and March. Because Bangkok is still very much a tropical destination, the weather can often have a mind of its own. The heavy monsoon rains taper down in early November, and the holiday crowds don't arrive till late December, so you'll see slightly cooler, drier weather and smaller crowds. Bear in mind, however, that the time between November and January is high season, so hotel rates and airfare will be at their highest.

If your plan is to head south to the islands after a stop in Bangkok, arriving between November and April guarantees the best beach and water conditions. In Bangkok, where everything's air-conditioned, and many of the attractions are at least partially indoors, there's no such thing as "the worst time to visit." For example, arriving during the wettest months might seem inconvenient, but it guarantees shorter lines at the main attractions and lower prices almost everywhere.

If you want a peek into local culture, the two major Thai festivals occur in April and November. April is the Songkran festival , which is Thailand's most famous festival. It's the traditional Thai New Year festival, and it's a time when the entire country erupts with celebration. November hosts the Loi Krathong, which is the time to thank the Water Goddess for her abundance, as well as ask forgiveness for the human pollution of the bodies of water. It's a beautiful festival held all over the country, marked by thousands of lanterns that are released into the night sky. In December, all the major shopping areas in Bangkok get decked for Christmas, even though it's not traditionally celebrated in Thailand.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Bangkok & Beyond: No visit to Bangkok is complete without a proper tour of the Grand Palace, the former residence of kings and now a massive museum. For tips on what to see inside the palace, take a look at our article, Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide . Ready to explore outside Bangkok? Find out how to get to popular Ayutthaya in our article, From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There .

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22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

Here's how experts recommend exploring Thailand's capital.

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One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure. Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It's entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. It's a city where street food mingles with Michelin-starred restaurants, and top-rated, modern hotels stand next to antique wooden houses. The energy of Bangkok is a heady mixture of ancient traditions, swirls of incense, the sizzle of chilis on cast-iron woks, an explosion of colorful flowers, flashes of neon, and endless honking from sputtering tuk tuks. It's a city that will ensnare the senses and hook you from the very beginning. "You cannot go to Thailand and not see the capital," says Grant Ekelund, senior travel consultant with InsideTravel Group Ltd, and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. "Even if you want to spend all of your time at the beaches or up in the mountains, you cannot understand those parts until you understand Bangkok — until you've gone down the klongs, wandered the roads, seen the temples, grabbed the street food, and interacted with people. It's just a dynamic and interesting city, and you're selling yourself short if you don't spend time there." But where to begin? With so many wonderful things to do in Thailand's capital, we've spoken to experts to narrow down the list. Read on to discover the best things to do in Bangkok.

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

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In a city with no fewer than 400 temples, it can be a daunting task to try to determine which ones to visit. That said, if it's your first time in Bangkok, experts agree that there are a few temples to put at the very top of your list, the first being the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Regarded as the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand, you'll find it within the elaborate Grand Palace complex. Inside the shrine is a small, jade-colored Buddha draped in golden robes to enjoy from a good distance — no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the king of Thailand. While you’re there, spend some extra time exploring the other temples, shrines, and historic halls in the Grand Palace grounds.

Have a drink at a rooftop bar.

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The Bangkok skyline is known for its towering skyscrapers, and a good number of them have rooftop bars that range in style and budget. There are options for unfussy backpackers, then some that draw the poshest of travelers. We're partial to Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, Thailand's highest restaurant and the bar at King Power Mahanakhon. Located on the 76th and 77th floors of the building, both venues promise beautiful panoramic views of bustling Bangkok.

Climb Wat Arun.

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Another can't-miss temple is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn. The uniquely shaped temple rises above the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. In fact, the land on which Wat Arun sits has been home to a temple since at least the 1500s. It is known for its 82-meter-high tower, which has stairs that lead all the way to the top, where you'll find gorgeous views of the river and Bangkok. From a distance, Wat Arun appears to be gleaming white, but as you get closer you'll find that the structure is actually made of beautifully painted floral mosaics that have been constructed from Chinese porcelain.

Visit Warehouse 30.

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While Bangkok is steeped in centuries of history and art, it is also a thriving capital of contemporary and forward-thinking art and design. At Warehouse 30, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses that's been transformed into creative spaces for artists and designers, you'll discover cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.

View the Reclining Buddha.

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Yet another temple to add to your itinerary is Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This massive Buddha is covered from head to toe (all 46 meters) in gold leaf and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Wat Pho also boasts one of the largest collections of Buddha images; there are more than 1,000 of them throughout the sprawling temple complex.

Shop for flowers before dawn.

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Bangkok is one of the most colorful cities in the world, and nowhere is that more evident than at Pak Khlong Talat. In this vibrant flower market is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet and enveloping scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh blooms. Browse stalls full of marigolds, orchids, roses, and more. What's great about the flower market, particularly if you are battling jet lag and need a late-night activity, is that it is open 24 hours a day.

Sample some of the best street food in the world.

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Bangkok streets seem to sizzle at all times of day with some of the most coveted street food on the planet. No matter where you are in the city, you're never more than a few steps from savory, flavorful, and aromatic foods, most of which can be purchased for less than $2 per person. Start the day with a Thai iced coffee (strong coffee made extra sweet with condensed milk) and try snack after snack throughout the day, from pad Thai to braised duck and chicken rice.

"Bangkok's reputation as a top street food city means you must explore local food culture in hubs like Chinatown and Baan Tad Thong," says Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of communications for Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok . "Local dishes offer an authentic taste of everyday Thai life."

Lerdwittayaskul recommends Lim Lao Sa Noodle Stall in Chinatown, a hidden, family run stall offering noodles in a clear fish broth. She also points to Phee Mao Rad Na, a food cart by the canal next to Wat Ratchabophit. "The stir-fried noodles are cooked a la minute, and the two-minute walk to Wat Ratchabophit after a meal adds to the experience," she says.

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Beyond its bustling street food scene, Bangkok is home to roughly 30 Michelin-starred restaurants. One to note in particular is Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining restaurant at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. This haute, white-glove experience is set within the gorgeous dining room overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Be sure to book a table at the window so can watch the sunset and the colorful boats on the river while you dine on exquisite and artfully prepared French cuisine.

Take a cooking class.

Of course, it's fun to cook your own food, too. A Thai cooking class is one of the best things to do in the country overall, so why not give it a try in Bangkok? The city has dozens of cooking schools to choose from across a variety of budgets. Sompong Thai Cooking School is a top choice; each class begins with a trip to the local market to procure key ingredients before moving back to the kitchen to prepare flavorful Thai dishes.

Get a Thai massage.

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It's no secret that the spa and wellness services in Bangkok are second to none — you just have to choose your preferred vibe. Whether it's a luxury spa palace or a no-frills storefront down a narrow alley, Bangkok has the wellness market cornered. A Thai massage is a distinct and unique style of massage; it uses no oils or aromatherapy, and instead focuses on passive stretching, acupressure, and increasing the range of motion of your muscles. If you've never had a Thai massage, Bangkok is the perfect place to try one.

Cruise the Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok's main lifeline is the serpentine Chao Phraya River, and along its banks are some of the city's top luxury hotels, oldest neighborhoods, and biggest tourist attractions. A cruise down the Chao Phraya is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the iconic Bangkok skyline, and to catch a glimpse of daily local life. There are a many ways to get on the river, from evening dinner cruises to daytime sightseeing excursions. If you really want to travel like a local, though, ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat . The public water taxi stops at busy docks along the river and travels all the way up to the neighboring province of Nonthaburi.

Wander Chinatown.

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Bangkok's Chinatown is among the largest Chinatowns in the world, and walking through this sprawling neighborhood will have you feeling like you've stepped out of Thailand and onto the streets of Beijing. If you like street food, Bangkok's Chinatown is the place to be. Or come to marvel at the district's neon lights, dangling lanterns, and dozens of gold stores on the iconic Yaowarat Road.

"Visit the Chinese Shrine in Chinatown during the late afternoon to catch the evening chanting rituals by monks," says Lerdwittayaskul. "In the evening, the red lanterns in the shrine and candles are lit up. The experience is grounding and serene. After visiting the shrine, I love strolling through the backstreets, trying delicious Chinese dishes like noodles, stir-fried oyster pancakes, dumplings, and refreshing lotus root herbal juice."

Browse the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

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If you hear locals talking about the JJ Market, what they're referring to is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. And if you like bazaars and outdoor markets, this will be the one that will blow you away. It is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, boasting around 15,000 stalls selling knock-off electronics, clothing, souvenirs, local art, birds, and everything in between.

Cycle in the city.

For such a congested city, you'd be amazed at how many opportunities there are for getting outside. If you're looking for a bit of fresh air, give cycling a try. "One of the best places for a cycle is in Bangkrachao, an island in the Chao Phraya River — also known as the 'Green Lung' of Bangkok, thanks to its abundant green space," says Wanwisa Maneewatthana, chief culturist at Capella Bangkok . "Despite being a big city, Bangkok can offer great outdoor experiences to immerse [you] into both nature and culture. Visitors can enjoy cycling in an old neighborhood like Charoenkrung to discover remarkable and non-tourist cultural sights like local wet markets and neighborhood temples."

Visit the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre.

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After you've hit the main tourist sites, you may want to slip a little below the radar for a different look at Bangkok, and the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre offers just that. This public space promotes both local and international art and culture exhibits. If you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists, this is the top gallery in the city to visit.

Visit Jim Thompson House.

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If there's one Western name consistently tied to Bangkok, it's Jim Thompson. Thompson was the American businessman who brought Thai silks to the rest of the world in the mid-20th century. His canal-side home has been transformed into a museum showcasing his vast collection of art and antiques. The home is an architectural marvel, made of an amalgamation of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya. The lush gardens surrounding it are equally beautiful.

Celebrate a new year at the Songkran festival.

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If there is one festival to attend in Bangkok, it would be Songkran, or Thai New Year, which is held every year in April. This three-day event is when the city stops its usual business and transforms into one giant (and water-soaked) party. "The festival offers guests the chance to experience a fun-filled celebration that includes water fights on the street," says Maneewatthana. "Also, visitors can visit temples to participate in religious celebrations to bring them good luck in the coming year."

Shop at Siam Paragon.

If you're cruising down the Chao Phraya River, you can't miss one of the largest luxury malls in Asia, Siam Paragon. This is the ultimate stop in Bangkok for high-end labels, as well as a host of entertainment options, from restaurants and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium to a 16-screen movie theater and more than 250 shops. It's also the home base for the largest foreign-language bookshop in Bangkok, Kinokuniya. It's easy to get to Siam Paragon, as two BTS Skytrain lines intersect at the stop right in front of the mall.

Cruise the klongs in a longtail boat.

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Bangkok is known as the "Venice of the East," and for good reason — the city is quite literally webbed with miles of canals, or klongs. The oldest part of the city, known as Thonburi, sits west of the Chao Phraya River, and a visit to this corner of the city takes you back in time. There are wooden houses on stilts, plus lush greenery, small, colorful temples, and far more locals than tourists. "I try to have [all of my clients] spend some time on the klongs," says Grant Ekelund . "I like to do it because it's an interesting and unique way to experience the city from the water. Experience the neighborhoods, get a little bit out there, and get a sense for how people live in Bangkok."

Stroll in Lumpini Park.

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Another slice of green space in Bangkok is the 142-acre Lumpini Park, also known as the "Central Park of Bangkok." Set right in the heart of the city, the park includes a man-made lake strewn with swan paddle boats, and it's a popular spot for trail walking, picnics, Tai Chi, live music, and more. 

Explore Charoenkrung Road.

Bangkok is a city of many personalities, but if it's old-school charm you're looking for, head to another of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Charoenkrung Road. Home to the very first paved road in Bangkok, Charoenkrung is slowly disappearing as luxury hotels continue to open. But visitors can still experience myriad cultural activities here, from street food and hidden temples to an emerging art district.

Take a day trip to Ayutthaya.

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About an hour from Bangkok by train, Ayutthaya is the perfect day trip from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya gives visitors a glimpse of the ancient days of Thailand. The preserved kingdom capital is home to gorgeous palaces and temples that date back as far as the 14th century. Visitors can wander around the temple ruins for a unique look at how this part of the world used to be. "A day trip here offers a deep dive into Thai history and culture," says Lerdwittayaskul. "You can explore numerous historical sites and temples, where the civilization, traditions, and beliefs of ancient people come alive." "Ayutthaya gets more into the history of Thailand," added Ekelund. "It's so cool, especially if you are not going to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat and want to see that style of architecture."

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Same same, but different. This Thailish T-shirt philosophy sums up Bangkok, a city where the familiar and the exotic collide like the flavors on a plate of pàt tai.

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand)

The capital city of Thailand and maybe the traffic jam capital of the planet, Bangkok is a fascinating, exciting and incredible city to visit. Like many other capital cities Bangkok never goes to sleep, there is always a hive of activity as people work around the clock in their various professions.

With eight million inhabitants living within the city you will find yourself encountering every walk of life, from the super poor to the mega rich they all congregate in the one city and each feels at home as the other.

Let’s have a look at the top things to do and see in Bangkok :

1. Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha

A visit to Wat Pho is a must for any traveler to Bangkok, it is the home to the Reclining Buddha which stands at fifteen metres tall and forty six metres long, the feet alone are measured at over five meters. The whole statue is covered in gold leaf and looks incredible when you get up close.

Inside the temple there are 108 bowls and on the way in to the temple you can buy coins for the bowls. The history behind this is that Buddha completed 108 positive actions on his way to becoming perfect. Whilst you are at the temple you can also stop for a while to receive a traditional Thai Massage

Recommended tour : Damnoen Saduak, Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun Private Tour

2. Visit the Grand Palace

Of all the places to visit in Bangkok the Grand Palace is the most famous attraction there is. You simply cannot move onto another city until you have taken the time to visit here.

The palace at one time was the king’s home as well as the place where the government of Thailand carried out their work. A trip to the palace can take many hours as there are over 214,000 sq. meters to cover. Be aware of potential scams when outside the palace and only pay the entrance fee when you are actually going in.

Great walking tour available : Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun

3. Ride the Sky Train

There is only one way to get around Bangkok at any speed whilst keeping cool and that is to jump aboard one of the sky trains. With air conditioned carriages there is no better way to get around.

In most instances you are high above the traffic below giving you a view of the city but also the train takes the most direct route. With nearly every part of Bangkok you would want to visit having a train station, travel could not be simpler.

4. Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.

If you like shopping you need to check this place out. If you hate shopping you need to give this place a wide berth. With over 8000 stalls covering 27 acres of space this is one of the largest markets in the world.

Open every Saturday and Sunday it attracts nearly 200,000 visitors a day, you will find everything you could ever imagine for sale here and mostly at local prices rather than tourist prices, it is certainly worth picking up a map before you go to avoid you being lost in the market for hours.

5. Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River

Some people refer to Bangkok as the ‘Venice of the East’ this is due to the Chai Phraya River flowing through Bangkok and all of the little canals that feed off of it. The river is the lifeblood of Bangkok, even today 50,000 people still go to work on one of the many ferries that go up and down.

Taking a boat trip down the river is fascinating as you will see high rise condominiums and fancy hotels in one part whilst you will see wooden shacks and children playing in the water in other parts. Feel free to get on and off at any of the stops the ferries make to further explore the city.

Related tour : Tuk Tuk & Tourist Boat on Chao Phraya River

6. Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon

The high end shopper’s paradise, a hugely popular shopping mall that houses many different shops for high-end fashion designers, Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, a huge multiplex cinema and enough restaurants to feed you for a life time.

There are over 250 shops inside the mall, most of which are frequented by the well-heeled Thai’s and foreigners. Various car manufacturers including Ferrari and Lamborghini also have showrooms within the complex so if you have deep pockets you are sure to find what you are looking for.

7. Visit The Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is home to the largest collection of artifacts and Thai art in all of Thailand. The museum was first opened by King Rama V to show off all the gifts that his father had given to him.

There are many interesting things to see in the museum such as Chinese weapons, precious stones, puppets, clothing and textiles and Khon masks. If you go to the museum on a Thursday you can be given a tour in English to give you a greater understanding of everything in the museum.

8. Have a Thai Massage

Whatever country you come from you almost certainly would have heard of Thai massages and maybe even have seen a Thai massage parlour in your local village. But nowhere can you experience a traditional Thai massage done as well as you would in the country where it originated.

The experience of a Thai massage will give you a new lease of life whilst making you feel invigorated as well as balanced. There are parlous absolutely everywhere so it is worth doing your research to find a good one near your hotel.

9. Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)

Situated just outside the BTS station called Nana is a place called Nana Plaza, many people think that Nana Plaza is the largest sex complex in the world today.

Here you will find many gogo bars full of Thai women looking to pleasure you for the evening in return for a fee. Even if you have no intention of participating in any of the girls offers it is worth spending some time sitting down with a drink and watching the people go by.

10. Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower

Before the financial crisis hit the world a few years ago a huge 49 story skyscraper was being built in the heart of Bangkok, but when the crisis hit the building work stopped and the tower was never completed. Now it sits there abandoned, far too big for anyone to do anything with.

Some sites recommend climbing the tower, but this is dangerous and not allowed. A few years ago some bloggers/vloggers had criminal charges filed against them for posting material online showing them climbing the tower.

11. Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park

At over 500,000 sq. meters Lumpini Park providers the people of Bangkok with a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The name of the park originated from the Lord Buddha who was born in Nepal.

It is not unusual when you walk through the park to see the older Thai generation practicing their Thai Chi or a romantic couple relaxing by the side of the lake. At the weekends the park is full of people taking part in all sorts of activities so a great time to go is early morning or just before sunset.

Related tour : City Culture 3-Hour Bike Tour

12. Eat Out At Chinatown

Every major city has its own Chinatown and Bangkok is no exception to this, you know you have arrived when you walk through the ceremonial Chinese gates and into Chinatown itself.

Packed full of street stalls and restaurants the choice of places to eat will be endless, nowhere else in Bangkok will you get to try as many different kinds of Chinese food as you can here, especially at such good prices. If it is gold you are on the lookout for it is said that this is also the best place in Bangkok to look.

Suggested tour : Bangkok Chinatown Food Tour

13. Go For A Drink On Top Of The City

There are various places in Bangkok where you can go for a drink at the end of the day but none will have the view of Bangkok that the Vertigo and Moon bar or the Lebua Rooftop bar has. Sitting on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree hotel you can look out and see the beautiful skyline of Bangkok in all of its glory.

As soon as you reach the top you are straight outside so this is not the place to be if you are afraid of heights, the designers have made the rooftop in such a way that you get a complete 360 degree view of the city with no obstructions.

Book online: Lebua Rooftop Bar Reservation & Round-Trip Transfer

14. Eat Street Food

With Thai people choosing to eat almost every meal out instead of cooking at home the popularity of street food has never been stronger. Every busy road will have street food vendors selling their products to the locals and tourists alike, the prices are low because this is where the Thais choose to eat their meals as well.

You have probably heard of Pad Thai but there is so much more to street food that this one dish. You will get stalls selling all sorts of foods from Som Tam (papaya salad) to Squid, all cooked in front of you ready for consumption straight away.

There are also some amazing food tours available.

 15. Take a Motorcycle Taxi

With the roads of Bangkok being as congested as they are, getting from one place to another can often seem like a daunting task. For most places you can get a sky train but for those that you cannot it is a good option to take a motorcycle taxi, unlike a traditional taxi or a tuk-tuk these guys will take you on the back of their motorcycle to anywhere you want to go.

There is no measuring how far the journey is so once you have paid your fair the driver will want to be there in a rush. Sit back and relax as your driver weaves through the traffic to get you to your location.

16. Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)

The whole of Thailand is full of kickboxing stadiums but the biggest fights happen in Bangkok, normally at either the Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen stadiums. Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and it is talked about everywhere. The viewing figures on TV are some of the highest for any show that is aired.

An evening spent at the stadium is sure to be action packed as the locals get so immersed in the fights that the atmosphere reaches fever pitch. There is usually somebody walking around taking bets as well if that is of interest to you.

Book online : Muay Thai Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium – VIP Entrance Ticket

17. Visit Dusit Zoo

Dusit Zoo is the oldest zoo in Thailand and has been open for over 60 years.

There is a large range of animals inside the zoo (approximately 1600) including monkeys, alligators, lions, tigers, penguins and kangaroos.

The zoo is very much a working zoo and has an animal hospital which looks after all of the inhabitants of the zoo as well as an education center, museum and train.

18. Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran

Celebrated each year between the 13th and 15th of April Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival and nobody is safe from getting wet. In the Buddhist religion it is believed that by sprinkling water your sins and bad luck will be washed away.

Today the sprinkling of water has turned into a full on water fight that the whole country gets involved in. with the huge crowds of Bangkok there is no better place to experience this festival as the city becomes one big party.

19. Explore the Bangkok Nightlife

Bangkok is famous for it’s nightlife scene and grown pretty big over the years.

There’s exciting nightclubs, amazing rooftop bars, hip cocktail bars and much more. There’s the adult themed Soi Cowboy and Patpong, the party scene at Khao San Road and lot’s of clubs to dance the night away. Want to party with like-minded travelers? Then check out this bar crawl tour .

20. Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show

An absolute must for all tourists to Bangkok, in most puppet shows the puppeteers are hidden from view but not in this show.

The puppeteers are part of the show and it takes three people to control each puppet. The puppets tell out a classic folk tale whilst a live orchestra plays music to add to the atmosphere.

The set design and craftsmanship that goes into making the props is magnificent as is the technique of the artists as well.

21. Visit Jim Thompson House

Thai silk is famous the world over and nowhere will you find a better place to learn about the history behind this craft. As you walk around the house you will not only learn the history of The Thai Silk Company but also the fascinating history of Jim Thompson himself. The house itself is more of a complex with six traditional teak structures forming the complete dwelling.

Consider the Jim Thompson House and Baan Krua Community Tour to save a buck.

22. Visit Wat Arun

There are more than 31,000 Buddhist temples spread out across Thailand and this one is one that you really want to see.

The temple is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River is this beautiful temple that stands at 79 metres tall.

The tower is covered in ceramic tiles and coloured porcelain making for an incredible sight when you catch it in the right light. The temple itself is guarded by a pair of mythical giants that keep watch over the temple grounds.

Suggested tour:  4-Hour Night Bike Tour with Wat Arun & Wat Pho

23. Feast Yourself On Durian

You will probably smell it before you see it but Durian is known as the king of fruits. People either love it or hate it with some public areas going as far as putting up signs that completely ban it.

A durian fruit is distinct for many reasons, firstly its look, it looks like some kind of medieval weapon with its thorny outer shell, and once the shell has been removed the insides are like this creamy buttery texture that some people say is the greatest fruit of all.

24. Visit Erawan Shrine

Situated in one of the busiest areas of Bangkok is Erawan Shrine, It is a Brahman shrine and attracts so many visitors that it is more popular than many of the temples.

Constructed in the 1950’s the shrine was made because the construction workers on the nearby hotel were too superstitious to continue their work as they felt the land spirits were unhappy and causing problems on the construction site.

The shrine itself is a four faced brahma god and people flock there and lay floral garlands in the hope their wishes will come true..

25. Visit Vimanmek Mansion

Vimanmek Mansion is the world’s largest teak wood building. Formally a royal residence it was only used for a few years before being left empty for many decades.

The mansion itself is now a museum that is home to many ancient artifacts and even some photographs that have been donated by His Majesty the King.

When you are in the grounds of the buildings you may take as many photographs as you wish but you will not be allowed to take your camera inside the museum itself and a strict dress code is in force so ensure you dress modestly.

25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok (Thailand):

• Visit Wat Pho To See The Reclining Buddha
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Ride the Sky Train
• Take a trip around Chatuchak Market.
• Take a Boat Trip along the Chao Phraya River
• Shop Till You Drop At Siam Paragon
• Visit The Bangkok National Museum
• Have a Thai Massage
• Spend an Evening in Nana Plaza (Soi 4)
• Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower
• Take A Stroll Through Lumpini Park
• Eat Out At Chinatown
• Go For A Drink On Top Of The City
• Eat Street Food
• Take a Motorcycle Taxi
• Watch Kickboxing (Muay Thai)
• Visit Dusit Zoo
• Take Part in a Water Fight During Songkran
• Explore the Bangkok Nightlife
• Visit The Bangkok Puppet Show
• Visit Jim Thompson House
• Visit Wat Arun
• Feast Yourself On Durian
• Visit Erawan Shrine
• Visit Vimanmek Mansion

Visit Bangkok: Top 30 Things To Do And Must See Attractions

The 30 best things to do in bangkok (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Bangkok, in Thailand , during your next trip?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 30 best things to do in Bangkok and its surroundings. You will find all must-see attractions in and around the city as well as itineraries to visit Bangkok in 1, 2, 3 days or more!

No matter if you want to discover the Grand Palace , visit the most beautiful temples, go shopping in the modern part of the city or visit one of the famous floating markets , you will for sure find many activities to enjoy during your stay.

And as usual, I will also give you all my best tips and my list of the best places to stay in Bangkok, depending on your budget.

So, What are the best things to do in Bangkok? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Grand Palace

3. wat arun, 4. chatuchak weekend market, 5. wat saket / the golden mount, 6. khao san road, 7. chinatown, 8. wat traimit / golden buddha, 9. lumphini park, 10. jim thompson’s house, 11. dusit park, 12. doing a river cruise, 13. shopping in bangkok, 14. bangkok’s rooftops, 15. bangkok’s museums, 16. attend a boxing match, 17. enjoy a traditional thai massage, 18. the floating markets near bangkok, 19. ayutthaya, 20. kanchanaburi and the bridge over the river kwai, 21. to 30 – the 10 best things to do in bangkok with family, how many days to visit bangkok, 1 day in bangkok, 2 days in bangkok, 3 days in bangkok, where to stay in bangkok, where to eat in bangkok, where to go in bangkok at night, how to get around bangkok, the most common scams in bangkok, thailand tours, traveling to bangkok: flight prices, tourist map of bangkok, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, visit bangkok: the 30 must-see attractions.

The Grand Palace (or Royal Palace) is the most visited tourist site in Bangkok and one of the must see attractions during a trip to Thailand.

It’s located on the edge of the Chao Phraya river and is surrounded by a 1.9 kilometers long wall.

Built in 1782 , the year when Bangkok officially became the capital of the country after the fall of the Ayutthaya and Thonburi kingdom, the complex includes more than 100 buildings, palaces, and pavilions .

The sovereigns of Thailand lived there for many years in the past, but today the King only goes there for official ceremonies.

During your visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok , don’t miss the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a royal chapel. In the chapel, you can admire a jade statue of Buddha found in 1434 in Chiang Rai (in the north of Thailand). This statue is revered by all Thai people.

Another impressive building is Chakri Mahat Prasat palace, built by King Rama V to be his residence.

The palace is open everyday and the entrance fee is 500 bahts (plus 200 bahts for an audio guide).

Your ticket allows you to visit all the buildings (outside + inside) as well as the museums (textile museum and Royal Thai Decorations and Coins museums) . Admission to a Thai dance show at the Royal Theater is also included.

You can find more information at the official website .

When visiting The Grand Palace and temples in general, appropriate dress is required . Legs and shoulders must be covered.

If you’re not dressed properly, you can buy pants or skirts for 100 bahts on the street or rent an outfit at the entrance of these sites. That’s why you see everyone walking around in loose pants decorated with elephants! 😆

Wat Pho , the second main tourist attraction in Bangkok, is located not far from the Grand Palace and is easily accessible on foot.

It’s one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. Inside, you can admire the largest reclining Buddha in the city: 45 meters long and 15 meters high! The statue represents Buddha’s death.

During your tour don’t forget to admire the soles of the feet: they are encrusted with pearls and decorated with symbols.

In the temple complex, you can also discover:

• The Buddha Gallery and its 394 golden Buddhas
• The 4 royal Chedis covered in colorful ceramics
• The Phra Ubosoft, where the ashes of King Rama I are guarded by another famous golden Buddha statue.

Entry to Wat Pho costs 200 bahts and the visit takes around an hour and a half.

Any other information needed can be found on the official website.

Wat Arun completes the trio of temples to visit during your stay in Bangkok.

It’s located on the other side of the river from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho . To get there, you’ll have to take a boat shuttle (4 bahts) that drops you off right in front of the entrance.

Wat Arun is especially known for its 82 meters prang (a tower), entirely covered in tiny pieces of colorful porcelain. It’s surrounded by 4 smaller prangs , also encrusted with mosaics.

Recently renovated, the location is really worth the visit. And if you have the chance, come back in the evening to see it illuminated from the other side of the river.

Wat Arun is open everyday and the entrance fee is 50 bahts .

You’ll find almost no signs with information or explanations at these 3 main tourist sites: The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.

If you want to learn more about their history, you should really opt for a guided visit of these 3 points of interest in Bangkok. It’s amazing!

You need to book it in advance by clicking here.

If you’re in Bangkok during the weekend, you should really visit Chatuchak Market , the largest market in Thailand (more than 15 000 stands).

It’s so big, they even give you a map when you enter to help you get around.

The market is organized into sections : clothes, shoes, jewelry, souvenirs, and much more! And as you can imagine, there is a also a large part dedicated to food.

If you didn’t know what to do on Sunday in Bangkok , your problem is solved! However I should warn you, you won’t be the only ones to have the same idea, the place is super busy.

And to relax a bit, you should go to the large park located nearby . Lots of Thais go there with their family and friends to picnic by the lakeside .

Chatuchak market is really the city’s most famous market .

But don’t worry, if you’re visiting Bangkok during the week (not on the weekend), you only have to walk down the commercial streets or in the shopping centers to find the various products sold at the market, including the famous “I Love Bangkok” t-shirts and elephant key rings!

And if you continue your trip in Thailand to the north, towards Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai , you will also have the opportunity to discover other markets.

Since the market is a bit far from the city center, the easiest and fastest way to get there is to take the metro and get off at the Chatuchak Park station.

Let’s continue our Bangkok travel guide with the Golden Mount.

Built on the top of a hill, the Golden Mount temple allows you to enjoy a 360 degree view over Bangkok. To get there, you will have to climb a few steps , but really nothing too insurmountable!

Along the path, you will find fountains and statues, as well as several gongs you can ring to attract luck, love, or money (your choice!).

The entrance fee is 50 bahts.

You’re going to Bangkok?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Bangkok 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Bangkok on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Bangkok.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Bangkok, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Bangkok!

I can’t write a guide of Bangkok without talking about Khao San road!

This street is one of the city’s main tourist attractions , along with the Grand Palace or Wat Pho. A few years ago, it was especially a good place for backpackers to find cheap accommodation.

Nowadays, the place is super touristic and Khao San road clearly became one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the city . There, you will find bars and restaurants where everyone goes in the evening to have a drink.

There are still many low-costs hotels in the neighborhood, but it’s not really the quietest place to sleep in Bangkok.

In Bangkok, you should also take a stroll in Chinatown district , one of the main points of interest of the city.

You’ll find yourself transported to China with the noises, smells, and colors. Stroll in the alleys and discover the shopping stalls and street vendors where you can taste Chinese cuisine .

In Talat Mai , the Chinatown market, you can stock up on exotic fruits or, for the bravest among you, some culinary oddities.

In this district, you can also find many gold jewelry boutique.

In my opinion, it’s a lot more authentic than other Chinatowns in cities like Montreal or Singapore .

Take advantage of your stroll in Chinatown to visit the Wat Traimit .

Inside the temple, there is an impressive solid gold 5.5 tons and 3 meters high Buddha.

Originally , the statue was more commonplace, made in golden stucco and housed in another temple in Chinatown. But when the temple had to be destroyed, the monks decided to move the statue to Wat Traimit.

While transporting it, the statue felt down and the stucco cracked, revealing the gold . They realized that the statue was completely made of gold and had been covered in stucco to protect it during the invasion of Thailand by the Burmese.

Since then, Wat Traimit has been an important pilgrimage destination for the Thais and is one of the most important temples of Bangkok .

The entrance ticket for the temple costs 40 bahts.

If you’ve had enough of the crowds and noise of Bangkok, you should head to Lumphini Park .

This huge park is the largest green space in the city. You can stroll along landscaped paths and around the lake. If you have kids, they will for sure enjoy the playgrounds and swan shaped pedal boats!

During your walk in the park, keep your eyes open and you will probably spot a few Malay lizards.

As they look like Komodo dragons, they can be quite impressive at first glance! However they are not reputed to be dangerous (still, they are wild animals with unpredictable reactions). They can be up to 3 meters long.

They are very common in parks, especially near ponds or lakes

The lizards are generally calm and you can take pictures of them. However never try to pet them or to give them food , they have sharp teeth and long claws.

You should always keep in mind that even if they look slow, they are capable of lightning fast acceleration. I saw it myself on an island, when 2 tourists ran out of a forest chased by a big lizard.

It was funny to see, but it also makes you think twice before approaching one!

What’s the best place to visit in Bangkok if you’re an art lover?

Jim Thompson’s House, which belonged to an American businessman and art collector . Based in Bangkok and fascinated by Thai silks , he contributed to make them word famous and used by leading international fashion designers during fashion shows in Milan or London .

Besides the textiles, you can admire numerous works of art during your visit.

The house itself is quite unusual: it was built from several sections of traditional wooden houses brought to Bangkok from Ayutthaya.

Only guided visits are available and admission costs 200 bahts . More information can be found on the official website.

Dusit Park is another place to visit during your stay in Bangkok

There are 2 main buildings of very different styles:

• The Italian Renaissance style Dusit Palace, where you can discover the Throne Room. It’s the place where the famous photos of the royal family you see almost everywhere in Thailand are taken.
• Vimanmek Mansion , the former royal residence. It’s the largest golden teak building in the world.

During my visit, the two buildings were unfortunately closed for renovations (no reopening date was given at the time). But you can still see the exterior of the palace.

Until 2018, the park was also housing Bangkok Zoo , which is now closed. The animals were dispersed to various Thai zoos until the construction of the new zoo is finished.

A river cruise is another great activity to do in Bangkok . It will allow you to discover the temples and monuments from a new angle!

You should do it in the evening, when the buildings are illuminated.

Several companies also offer dinner cruises on the Chao Praya river. You don’t go necessarily for the food buffet, but rather for the ambience and to enjoy the view during the meal.

If you want to go on a dinner cruise, you will need to book one in advance . Simply click on the button below for more info:

And for a more luxurious, less touristy option , I recommend you this dinner cruise on a former rice barge.

You want to take advantage of your time in Bangkok to do a a bit of shopping ?

The best is to head to Siam district , where all the moderns and trendy shopping centers are located.

At the MBK Center , you will find electronics as well as clothes. There is also a bazaar-like section with souvenir stores.

The Siam Paragon , is on the other hand, more chic, with lots of luxury boutiques.

In the area, there is also CentralWorld , one of the largest mall in South Asia.

They are open everyday until late in the evening. They all have a food court, where you can you can find Thai and international dishes.

There’s nothing better than a rooftop on one of the highest buildings in Bangkok to contemplate the city.

Today, the highest skyscraper in Bangkok is Baiyoke tower . The terrace on the 77th floor and a revolving roof deck on the 84th floor allow you to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city.

If you want to go there, you must buy your tickets in advance, as it’s a very touristy place! The ticket also includes a food buffet . Just click on the button below to book it.

There are other rooftop bars offering beautiful views of the city in Bangkok. However be warned: The prices for cocktails are rather high and the dress code quite strict.

Here’s a selection of Bangkok’s best rooftops

• The Roof, with a splendid view of Wat Arun
• Vertigo Moon Bar , located on the top of the Banyan Tree Hotel
• Sky Bar Lebua , where scenes from the movie “The Hangover” were filmed
• Three Sixty Lounge , at the top of the Hilton Hotel
• Park Society , close to Lumphini Park
• Cloud 47 in the financial district
• Red Sky on the 55th floor of CentralWorld

There are several great museums you should visit in Bangkok:

• The National Museum, about the history and culture of Thailand. It’s the largest museum in southeast Asia!
• Museum of Siam, another history museum. It’s more playful, with videos and games
• Jim Thompson House, which I told you about earlier
• Royal Barges Museum, where you can discover the 8 royal barges the king was using when he traveled.
• Art in Paradise Museum : an interactive museum featuring 3D illusion paintings, where you can take super funny pictures. Really well done! ( click here to book it )
• Bangkok Art and Culture Center, for contemporary art lovers
• The Doll Museum, with a collection of hand-made, traditional Thai dolls.

While you’re in Bangkok, why not attend a Muay Thai boxing match?

Inspired by Thai soldiers combat training, it’s Thailand’s national sport .

More than just a simple fight, Muay Thai is above all an art form. During the warm-up, the fighters practice “the boxing dance” , a sort of simulated combat. Fights are also accompanied by musicians adapting the rhythm to the moves and blows.

Even if you’re not a fan of boxing, attending a match in Bangkok is a must-do , if only for the atmosphere.

The two main Muay Thai stadiums are Lumpinee Stadium and Rajadamnern Stadium.

If you plan to attend a match, you need to buy your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

If you have already visited all places in Bangkok and need a moment of relaxation , you should opt for a traditional Thai massage .

You’ll find hundreds of salons throughout the city. Prices start at around 250 bahts for an hour long foot massage and around 500 bahts for a full body massage.

The experience is a bit unusual, you’ll be stretched everywhere, sometimes in quite weird positions! However at the end of the massage, you will feel relaxed, even if a bit sore at first.

In Bangkok, most hotels have spas and also offer this service.

The best things to do around Bangkok

If you’re spending a few days in Bangkok and have already seen the main attractions, you should visit the surroundings. There are several places nearby that can be visited on a day trip.

The floating markets are a classic thing to do on a roadtrip in Thailand . For sure, the markets are very touristy and some were created just for folklore. Nevertheless, they are one of the best things to do in Bangkok’s surroundings.

If you have to only choose one, you should visit Damnoen Saduak floating market , one of the most famous. To go there, the best is to opt for an organized tour departing from Bangkok.

In addition to Damnoen Saduak floating market, the tour I recommend also allows you to visit Mae Klong market, one of the largest fish markets in Thailand. During your trip, you will first take a train from Bangkok, and then a boat to reach the floating market.

To book it, simply click on the button below:

The historic city of Ayutthaya is only 1 hour away by car from Bangkok.

The Ancient capital of the kingdom of Siam, nowadays a UNESCO World Heritage site, features many temples to visit.

If you can only do one day trip from Bangkok , you should really do this one!

Everyday, buses and trains leave for Ayutthaya. And if you don’t want to bother with the organization of the trip, you can book an organized day trip.

The journey starts from Bangkok, by bus. During the day, you’ll visit the main temples of Ayutthaya and then return to Bangkok by boat. You will for sure love the scenery!

If you want more details about the best things to do in Ayutthaya, you should read my article: Visit Ayutthaya: the definitive guide.

Looking for more places to visit around Bangkok? The you should head to Kanchanaburi!

There , you will find the world famous bridge over the river Kwai . Built by thousands of prisoners of war during the Second World War, the bridge is one of the most important historical sites in Thailand.

Besides the bridge, you will also be able to visit several historical museums . A real journey through time!

As for Ayutthaya and the floating markets, excursions to Kanchanaburi are organized from Bangkok. They include transport, a visit to the town, the bridge, the museums, a train ride, and the lunch.

To help you organize your family trip to Bangkok, here is my list of the best things to do with kids:

• A stroll in Lumphini Park, to enjoy some greenery and avoid the crowds
• Visit Bangkok’s aquarium: The Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World. Book your tickets here!
• Discover Madame Tussauds Museum , featuring wax figures of international celebrities. Buy your tickets there!
• Go to Fun-arium , the largest indoor playground in the city
• The Children’s Discovery Museum, with plenty of interactive activities. Free of charge!
• Attend a Thai dance and music show at Siam Niramit. Get your tickets here!
• Ancient City , a park with miniature versions of Thai monuments and temples
• Siam City Park , one of the largest amusement parks of southeast Asia. Tickets are there.
• Kidzania , where kids can try out different professions in realistic settings: a fire station, an operating room…
• Dream World amusement park. Book your tickets here.

As Bangkok is a rather large city, the places to visit aren’t really close to one another. Some parts of the city can easily be visited on foot , but you will for sure have to take a taxi or the metro to cross the city during your stay.

In my opinion, you should spend a minimum of 2 days in Bangkok, to have the time to visit the most important tourist sites as well as a good part of the places I mentioned in this guide.

Of course, you can stay 3 or 4 days in Bangkok and have the time to discover the surroundings!

Here are my itineraries for 1, 2 or 3 days in Bangkok:

If you have only one day in Bangkok , I recommend the following itinerary:

• Visit the Grand Palace , the must-see site in Bangkok. Get there as early as possible to avoid the crowds. ( Click here to book your guided visit )
• Go to Wat Pho to see the reclining Buddha
• Cross the river to see Wat Arun
• Take the shuttle boat across the river
• Visit the National Museum of Thailand or the Museum of Siam , depending on your interests
• Dinner cruise on the river ( Click here to book it or there for the luxury version ).

If you have 2 days in Bangkok, follow the previous itinerary and then add:

• Climb up to the Golden Mount Temple
• Stroll in Chinatown
• Visit to Wat Traimit
• Walk in Lumphini Park (easily accessible by metro from Wat Traimit)
• Shopping in Siam district: MBK Center or Siam Paragon
• And if you’re not too tired, head to Jim Thompson House (10 minutes on foot from Siam)
• Your choice for the evening: The rooftop terrace of Baiyoke Tower or a Muay Thai boxing match .

if you have 3 days in Bangkok, in addition to the 2 previous days itineraries, you have 3 options:

• You can finish your visit of the city. You can head to Dusit Park or visit some of the museums .
• If your third day falls on a weekend , it’s the perfect occasion to take a stroll in the alleys of Chatuchak Market.
• The third option is to visit the surrounding areas of Bangkok .

Here are the best day trips offered from Bangkok:

• From Bangkok – The Damnoen Saduak floating market : First, take the train to go to Mae Klong market, famous for being held on a railroad. Then, board a boat to reach the floating market and paddle across the klongs, the canals where the shops are located.
• Day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok : Head to Thailand’s most famous historic city for a day! Visit the impressive temples, and return to Bangkok by boat on the river.
• A day in Kanchanaburi, to discover the famous bridge over the river Kwai and its history.

As all these excursions are full-day tours, you can easily spend 4 or 5 days in Bangkok!

In Bangkok, there are thousands of accommodations , so it can be a bit complicated to find the perfect hotel for your trip!

As I know the city very well, here’s my selection of the best hotels to stay in Bangkok:

The best hotels near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho:

• D Hostel Bangkok: Youth hostel located near the temples and 5 minutes on foot from Khao San Road. Dormitory beds start at €20. Strong points: The location within walking distance to the temples, the cleanliness, the modern decor. Perfect for small budgets!
• Rambuttri Village Plaza: Located 1.5 kilometer from the Grand Palace and 500 meters from Khao San Road. Bright and pleasant double rooms starting at €30 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: Location, the rooftop swimming pools.
• Baan Wanglang Riverside, Bangkok: A hotel located on the riverbank opposite the Grand Palace, only 5 minutes away by shuttle boat. Spacious double rooms with a river view starting at €50. Strong points: The amazing river view, the rooftop, the proximity to the 3 main temples of Bangkok.
• Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel: A brand new hotel, 10 minutes on foot from the Grand Palace and 1km from the National Museum. Warm and comfortable rooms with a balcony starting at €70, breakfast included. Strong points: The surroundings, the comfortable beds, the friendly staff, the pool. It’s my favorite for its amazing value for money around the Grand Palace!
• Inn a day: located 600 meters away from the Grand Palace. Rooms with unusual and atypical industrial style decoration starting at €100, breakfast included. Strong points: Amazing view of the river and Wat Arun, excellent breakfast, the design.
• Chakrabongse Villas: On the riverbank, only a 15 minute walk to Wat Pho. Rooms and suites with Oriental yet modern decor start at €170, breakfast included. Strong points: The incomparable view of Wat Arun, the excellent location, the pool. It’s my recommendation for a romantic stay in Bangkok!

The best quiet hotels near the metro (to get around easily)

• Bangkok Patio: Located 10 minutes away on foot from the BTS Skytrain. Super spacious and modern studios and apartments with equipped kitchens and balconies starting at €40 per night. Strong points: The pool, the quiet, the location. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money! Also perfect for family holidays.
• Noursabah Boutique Bed Bangkok: Situated 500 meters from the BTS and Airport Rail Link (a direct line to the airport). Well decorated rooms with super comfortable bed begin at €50 a night with breakfast included. Strong points: The quiet, the comfort, food is available (noodles, yogurt, cereal), water, fruit juice 24 hours a day, super convenient to go to the airport.
• Anajak Bangkok Hotel: Located 5 minutes from the metro and the Airport Rail Link. Very comfortable and cozy rooms starting at €75 a night with breakfast. Strong points: The calm location, the pool, the style of the rooms. An excellent choice for visiting Bangkok or to easily get to the airport at the end of your trip.
• Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn: Situated just a few steps from the metro. Spacious rooms with large bay windows, staring at €115 including breakfast. Strong points: The great value for money, the infinity pool, the delicious breakfast, the direct access to the metro. It’s my recommendation for a high-end stay in Bangkok.
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Luxury hotel with direct access to Siam Paragon shopping center and the BTS. Elegant and contemporary rooms starting at €230, breakfast included. Strong points: The large pools and garden, the jacuzzi, the spa, the excellent breakfast. The best hotel in Bangkok for a luxurious stay!

I don’t have any specific restaurant recommendations for Bangkok. That would really depend on where you are staying and where you are when you start to feel hungry!

There are tons of restaurants, markets, and street food vendors everywhere in the city. You’ll be able to eat everything and at any hour of the day .

The food courts located in the shopping centers are also a great option if you prefer to be seated, with air conditioning, or if you want to try out different dishes from around the world.

All the dishes I ate in Thailand were really very good , super well cooked and seasoned. I didn’t knew much about Thai food before going to Thailand, but I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the ingredients and dishes (Both from street vendors to more high end restaurants!).

So, simply enjoy the local food and eat what you feel like eating. It’s delicious everywhere and very cheap!

I’ve already talked a bit about this earlier in this guide, the rooftops of Bangkok are an excellent choice to spend a relaxing evening and enjoy the view.

If you want more ambience and backpacker style bars, head to Khao San Road.

Finally, in Sukhumvit district , you’ll find many clubs and trendy bars for every taste.

There are several options to get around Bangkok and go to the various tourist attractions.

• The Sky Train (BTS) , very convenient to avoid all the traffic jams. Unfortunately it does not go to the main temples such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. But you can easily travel to Lumphini Park, the Siam district, the financial district, or Chatuchak market for example.
• Public buses: I don’t really recommend them. If you don’t speak Thai, it will be difficult to know if you’re on the right bus and they are crowded.
• Boat shuttles , to cross the river in a few minutes. Very convenient to go to Wat Arun or Wat Pho. There are several boat lines with different stops on the docks of the Chao Praya river.
• The MRT, the underground metro crossing Bangkok from north to south. It’s connected with the BTS and Airport Link.
• Taxis , as long as you’re not stuck in a traffic jam, a taxi ride will not be too expensive (always ask the driver to start the taxi meter and do not accept fixed fares).
• Tuk-Tuks , always negotiate the price before riding, their fares are often higher than a taxi.
• Moto-Taxis , personally I won’t try them in Bangkok, it’s not very safe.
• The airport City Line (Airport Link) links the Suvarnabhumi International Airport with Bangkok. Tickets are 45 bahts! 10 times cheaper than a taxi and you’re guaranteed to have no traffic!

I can’t write a travel guide about Bangkok without talking about scams . They are unfortunately very common! And even if I had been warned, I almost got scammed once too.

Here are some the most frequent scams:

• Scammers claim the place you want to visit is closed and they offer to show you something else. Flee or you will end up at a tailor or jewelry shop, where they will try to force you to buy something.
• They approach you saying it’s “Buddha Day” : A scammer tells you that today the temples are free + the Tuk Tuk fares are cheaper, as Tuk-Tuks don’t pay for gas on that day. You will get in the scammer’s friend tuk-tuk, which will then drive you to a tailor or jewelry shop to force you to buy something. Important: in any case, never enter the shop! The driver will get upset and will end up leaving you there (see my experience below). You will then have to walk or take a taxi.
• A taxi offers you a fixed price and refuses to turn on his meter. Never accept, because it will definitely be more expensive! If he doesn’t want to listen, just take another taxi.
• It’s not a scam, strictly speaking, but as in all cities with lots of tourists, whether Bangkok, Paris, Milan, Rome etc.., pickpockets are everywhere . Pay attention to your belongings. Personally I use this backpack . It opens only from the back and has a double bottom. It’s impossible to steal anything from it!

And yes, I experienced scam number two!

A young Thai man who seemed friendly (the best scammers are always nice!) accosted us at the edge of the Golden Mount, telling us that today was “Buddha Day” and the Tuk-Tuks weren’t paying for gas. It allowed them to organize low cost tours to visit some of the temples in Bangkok.

I thought “why not?” and got on board.

We first visited one temple, but unfortunately the second stop was in front of a tailor shop . I understood right away that the driver brought us there to get a commission, so I refused to enter the shop.

The driver started to get upset and wanted to force me to go inside. I kept refusing and he finally left me there!

Fortunately, I hadn’t paid anything in advance, so I got out of the experience OK and ended up walking to the next temple. Even if I am a frequent travelers and know about scams, it’s easy to get fooled by the apparent kindness of some Thais.

Hopefully, there are plenty of genuinely nice Thai people as well! Just if someone you don’t know approaches you at a tourist location, speaking a relatively good English, there is generally something suspicious going on.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Thailand by yourself. (All my Thailand travel guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Thailand tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Thailand tours by clicking the button below:

Flight prices to Thailand vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

To help you visualize where the best places to visit in Bangkok are located, I have made this tourist map of Bangkok, listing everything I talk about in this guide. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with the little arrow.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your stay in Bangkok?

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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19 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

By Diana Hubbell and Katie Lockhart

One of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, Bangkok is an ever-changing, always-bustling cosmopolitan capital with much more on offer than incredible street food (although there’s plenty of that). Chaos covered in a hazy combination of charcoal grills, incense, and motorbike exhaust, it’s home to culture and history alongside luxury hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, cozy cocktail bars and a surplus of good times. Overwhelmed? That’s normal. After a day of temple hopping, hit up Chinatown for old-world architecture and some of the city’s best bars. Or go green with a stroll through the city’s coolest parks, followed by a multi-course meal aboard an antique barge or tucked inside a century-old shophouse. Here are our picks for what to do in Bangkok.

Read our complete Bangkok city guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Jim Thompson House Arrow

The home of American Jim Thompson, who made a fortune in the mid-20th century selling Thai silks, has been transformed into a museum displaying the businessman's collection of antiques, artwork, and religious artifacts. The canal-side property is made up of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, surrounded by a verdant garden. Known for more than just its art collection, the property was also a legendary spot for high-society parties.

Lumphini Park Arrow

Bangkok is the ultimate concrete jungle, and most of its green spaces have long been gobbled up by developers adding condominium towers to the skyline. But smack dab in the center of the city is leafy Lumphini Park; often called the "Central Park of Bangkok" and named after the Nepali birthplace of Buddha, this an urban respite for many Bangkokians. The geographical heart of the park is an artificial lake where you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats.

The Grand Palace Arrow

The land for the Grand Palace was designated in 1782—the same year the capital of Thailand moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok—and today it's home to various royal throne and ceremonial halls, as well as the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although the Thai royal family moved out by 1925, this sprawling complex remains an important structure for Thais, one that's also a central stop on the well-trodden tourist route.

Chinatown Arrow

Market lanes, glittery gold shops, phenomenal street food, temples with golden Buddhas, Daoist temples clouded with incense smoke, street art, history, and a neighborhood setting that feels untouched by time and modernization: Welcome to Bangkok’s enchanting Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. You don’t need tickets or reservations, just an appetite for Thai-Chinese street food and a penchant for getting a little lost in the name of exploration.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Wat Pho Arrow

The main draw at Wat Pho is the country’s largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture occupying nearly every inch of the building and leaving guests to observe its gold-plated form from all angles. Beyond the Buddha, an expansive compound has the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. The complex was Thailand’s first center for public education; people came to study its 1,360 marble inscriptions to learn about medicine, history, and liberal arts.

The Siam Arrow

Compared with many of its rivals, this Bangkok stalwart doesn’t have a location that’s wildly convenient: the postcard sights need a boat transfer, and most top tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But for me, and the legions of other loyal fans of this monochrome masterpiece by hotel guru Bill Bensley, that’s the point. Pitched up on a lush riverside plot in the hushed Dusit district, The Siam feels like a portal to a bygone Bangkok. Even though it opened a decade ago, it’s easy to imagine it as a plush playground for the city’s erstwhile big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms—vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks and chipped ceramics—adorn the marble-floored hallways. I’d be hard-pressed to point friends to a lovelier lunch spot than the hotel’s Thai restaurant, set between the timeworn pillars of three ancient teakwood houses, where butlers in dressy black sarongs deliver the kind of classic Thai hospitality—lilting “sawadee ka” greetings and tables set with fresh orchids—that’s becoming harder to find. None of which is to say that the hotel is stuffy—there’s a tattoo parlor in the spa. An ongoing refurb is keeping suites and private-pooled villas looking fresh. And with the opening of a Jim Thompson homeware boutique in the wooden house the illustrious silk magnate helped procure for its former owners, things have come full circle. The Thai capital’s five-star hotel scene gets plusher every year, but this timeless beauty remains in a league of its own. From $618. —Chris Schalkx

Chatuchak Weekend Market Arrow

Known as JJ Market to most locals (the official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound), this is the granddaddy of all markets: With 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world. Everything is buyable, from practical stuff like home décor, art, clothing, accessories, and cooking equipment, to trinkets and oddities like knock-off Nikes and Beats by Dre, iPhone covers, and—yes—even live animals. Despite its sheer size, though, the market is very well organized, with goods arranged by type and a large map posted near the entrance.

Wat Arun Arrow

Of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats , throughout Thailand, Wat Arun is one of the most iconic. The 269-foot tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, juts out from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and the temple complex is illuminated in a golden glow at night. This is one of the few temples in Thailand that you can climb; once you've ascended the steep and narrow stairs, you're in for a great view of the river and surrounding temple complex.

Smiling Albino Arrow

The peeps behind Smiling Albino have been at it since 1999, so you can rest assured they know what they’re doing. Their offerings fall in the custom luxury category: private experiences in Bangkok, cultural visits, and trips to nearby villages. They also organize weeklong trekking journeys in northern Thailand, cycling in Nepal, and motorcycling in Vietnam. Each trip is custom-made to your interests: no coaches and explanations shouted through a microphone, but rather personal guides and drivers.

Manohra Dinner River Cruise Arrow

This six-course dinner served aboard an an antique wooden rice barge is an excellent crash course in both Thai food and Bangkok's must-visit destinations along the river. Book it to get your bearings on what you'd like to explore during daylight—while eating fantastic dishes like a gold leaf-topped curry amuse bouche, a dry-ice play on mango sticky rice, and a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. The warm service rivals any fine-dining establishment on land, and the experience is perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening on the water.

Wat Prayoon (Prayurawongsawat Worawihan) Arrow

Sitting on the quieter Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is a crowd-free, surprise-filled temple compound with plenty of moments for peaceful solitude. Visitors can spend an afternoon here exploring the towering white chedi —it's rare to find one in Bangkok you can actually enter—or watching the turtles and monitor lizards in the Khao Mo garden. It's an excellent spot for families with young kids and temple-lovers looking for something besides a giant gold Buddha (although it's got one of those too).

Blue Elephant Cooking School Arrow

Bringing home a taste of Thai food is high on the list of most travelers, and in the always-hungry capital, there are lessons for newbies and pros alike. Blue Elephant’s half-day lesson is a good middle ground, where experienced cooks won’t be bored and novices won’t feel lost. At the morning lesson, small groups gather at the elegant colonial-style house before making their way to the multiethnic Bangrak market; the afternoon session, meanwhile, dives right into cooking.

The Jam Factory Arrow

Architect Duangrit Bunnag’s fingerprints are all over the revival of Bangkok’s waterfront. Savvy travelers will also notice his handiwork just across the Chao Phraya at Warehouse 30 . Down Charoenkrung Road in the former General Post Office lies the reopened Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), which Bunnag co-founded. The Jam Factory is at the core of his vision to shift the city’s gravitational center back to where it once lay: on the so-called River of Kings. He built this stunning complex anchored around an ancient Bodhi tree to house his firm’s main office, along with a hip restaurant, a gallery, and more.

100 Tonson Foundation Arrow

Over the past decade, Bangkok’s art scene has mushroomed from a few scattered galleries into a vibrant, thriving community. Much of that transformation has to do with Aey Phanachet’s groundbreaking contemporary art space in Ploenchit. In 2020, Tonson Gallery became a non-profit and changed its name to 100 Tonson Foundation.This was the first Thai gallery to participate in Art Basel, the Switzerland art fair, and it’s been a champion of Southeast Asian artists ever since. Despite its high-powered reputation, the gallery is open to casual art-lovers as well as collectors.

Wat Pariwat Arrow

Bangkok’s temples are truly a wonder to behold, but after a few days of battling the crowds, the appeal of gilded Buddha statues may start to wear thin. When you’ve conquered the major attractions, hop in a taxi to this Wat Pariwat, a one-of-a-kind temple down the Chao Phraya River. Sometimes nicknamed the David Beckham Temple for its statue of the famed soccer star below the main altar, Wat Pariwat is both an active place of worship and a hodgepodge of pop culture references.

Nusara Arrow

Follow the outdoor neon sign that says "Only Kids Drink Milk" to this fine-dining speakeasy that ranks 10th on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. Head to the back of Mayrai Pad Thai and Wine Bar, go up the spiral stairs and past the open kitchen, and find a small dining area set for 12. One of Bangkok's most exclusive reservations, the restaurant serves a 12-course set menu of Thai chili–laden dishes that are an ode to Chef Ton Tassanakajohn's grandmother, Nusara. Highlights include peanut relish with seasonal vegetables and shrimp paste water perfected over the course of 80 years.

Pak Khlong Talat Arrow

Bangkok’s bustling 24-hour flower market is a feast for the eyes and the nostrils—and one of the best places for jet-lagged travelers awake at odd hours to do some sightseeing. The highlight of the market is visiting the vendors along Chakkaraphet Road and watching locals prepare sacred temple offerings at lightning speed. They’re folding back the delicate petals of lotus blossoms, stringing fragrant jasmine into garlands known as malais, sorting through bags teeming with marigolds, and creating elaborate arrangements for funerals and weddings. Under the market’s tin roof, merchants sell bundles of orchids, button carnations, roses, green bananas still on the stem, towering stacks of prickly pineapples, and pre-made temple offerings. Across Chakkaraphet Road, don’t miss the elaborate ready-made bouquets and stacks of colorful orchids for 20 baht (60 cents) each.

Warehouse 30 Arrow

The creation of Warehouse 30 is the latest creative project in a string of artistic spaces in rehabbed historical buildings along Charenkrung Road. Under the artistic and watchful eye of Duangrit Bunnag, a founder of the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) and Thailand’s best-known architect, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses have become a bastion for local designers and artists. Ever-changing exhibition spaces, independent boutiques, a coffee shop, and more are all part of the new development. And while the shops and the vibe are new, the exposed beams and wood flooring are original.

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26 best things to do in Bangkok right now

Looking for ideas to make the most of the world's most visited city? Here's where to start.

Discover the city with our list of the best things to do and see in Bangkok, for visitors and locals alike. From restaurants you can't miss to rooftop decks you gotta check out, this is your ultimate Bangkok checklist.

RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Bangkok this weekend

The best things to do in Bangkok

Feast on scrumptious comfort food on Ban Tad Thong Road

• Street food
• price 1 of 4

What is it? Originally lined with auto parts shophouses and sportswear stores, Ban Tad Thong has been transformed into a happening spot for late-night casual dining, with over 50 restaurants and vendors lining up both sides of the street.

Why go? Cheap eats and a wide range of choices, from modern comfort fare to traditional dishes by popular street food restaurants that were relocated from neighboring areas. You also get proper seating, a clean and hygienic setting, and space for parking. And it’s not as crowded nor as touristy as other street food destinations in Bangkok (we mean Yaowarat). 

Don’t miss: There’s a lot to explore here , but we recommend the Hainan chicken rice at Jeh Bow and the spicy water mimosa salad at Jeh Sri . For some post-meal sweets, you have ice cream in unique flavors at Tuay Tung or cold longan juice with beans at Jeh Wan .

Blow your shopping budget at Chatuchak Market

What is it? The ultimate outdoor weekend market that both locals and tourists flock to.

Why go? Spanning over 8,000 stalls, Chatuchak has just about everything, including food products, plants, jewelry, vintage finds, homeware, souvenirs, as well as niche local brands that test the grounds here before growing big.

Don’t miss: Dirt-cheap but delicious street snacks like green soda popsicles and fried quail eggs .

Take in the city skyline at Mahanakhon SkyWalk

What is it? Thailand’s highest 360-degree observation deck, sitting 314 meters above the ground.

Why go? This observation triplex, housed in the King Power Mahanakhon building , includes an air-conditioned deck on the 74th and 75th floor, and the highest bar in Bangkok and a glass tray on the 78th.

Don’t miss: Walk on that glass tray floor to give yourself a heart-pumping thrill and see Bangkok beneath your feet.  

Enjoy open space in the heart of the city at Benjakitti Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens
• Khlong Toei

What is it? A 480,000-square-meter public park and green space (almost as big as London’s Hyde Park) in Khlong Toei, right in the center of Bangkok. 

Why go? Benjakitti Park (or Benchakitti), which first opened in 1994, underwent massive renovations from 2016 to 2021. Its expansion and renovation came with new outdoor facilities such as organized bike lanes and running tracks, a sports center, and, most importantly, dog-friendly zones .

Don’t miss: Now that Benjakitti Park has been improved, it has become a favorite venue for community activities—from live music concerts to various pursuits by hobby clubs—that you can join. Try to come at sunset when bright lights are turned on to illuminate the park’s elevated walkway. It’s a scene that you might want to capture for your Instagram!

Take in million dollar views atop State Tower

• Charoenkrung

What is it? Situated on Charoenkrung, it is home to world-class establishments such as five-star hotel Lebua, two-Michelin-starred restaurant Mezzaluna , and stylish rooftop bar Sirocco .

Why go? State Tower’s 63rd floor is reserved for Sirocco, which offers stunning acrophobia-challenging views made popular by the  movie The Hangover Part II . You can also opt to have an unforgettable dinner with your boo at Mezzaluna on the 65th floor or sip champagne at Pink Bar, named for its floor that’s completely illuminated in a rosy hue.

Don’t miss: Sirocco is the only spot in Bangkok where you can take in views of Bangkok on both sides of the Chao Phraya River. And it has a famous staircase leading down to the bar where you can walk down like an A-list celeb.

Feast on fancy Thai food at Michelin-starred restaurants

What is it?   Sixteen Thai restaurants were awarded a Michelin star(s), including   Le Du ,   Sorn , and   Methavalai Sorndaeng . 

Why go?   Underrated hidden gems and up-and-coming chefs are getting the acclaim they deserve. Old-school seafood haunts and sophisticated venues dedicated to Southern fare have also made the list.

Don’t miss:   Street food culinary champ   Jay Fai   still dazzle.

Cap the night off with rum-based tipples at Tropic City

What is it? A tropical-themed watering hole on Soi Charoenkrung 28 by Sebastian de la Cruz and co, with a menu of fun cocktails mixed by Arron Grendon .

Why go? It was named the world’s 24th best and Asia’s 17th best bar. Need we say more? And it hosts entertaining events throughout the week like rum tasting and guest DJ sets.

Don’t miss: The neon-lit bar is proud of its creative, rum-heavy creations such as Night Rider (B390), a rum-based drink with fizzy ginger beer and a hint of tamarind.

Own the night at Khaosan Road

What is it? Bangkok’s primary destination for backpackers and fun-loving night owls craving a wild, carefree evening at rough-around-the-edges clubs and bars.

Why go? Why not? Khaosan Road is hands-down Bangkok’s most notoriously fun hotspot, where youthful locals and foreign hedonists come together for one of those nights in a less-than-fashionable nightclub over a bucket full of who-knows-what booze.

Don’t miss: Khaosan Road has actually cleaned up post-COVID. There are several new kids in the hood, namely Mischa Cheap , where all genres of music are celebrated in a cheeky way, as well as themed cocktail bars Bar Darn and Tropical Garden .

Dance til you (dead)drop at Silom Soi 2

What is it? A vibrant gay paradise lined with LGBTQ-friendly venues that spur you to shantay until the sun says “hyeeeee!”

Why go? There are four things you can get from a night out in Silom Soi 2: bombastic fun, trashy EDM music, cheap drinks, and a cruising-like experience (if you know what we mean). Also, you are guaranteed a good time by way of campy Thai-style entertainment served up by drag queens and skimpily clad dancers.

Don’t miss: Definitely DJ Station, (B400 entrance fee with a few free drinks) the perennially packed club at the very end of the soi . Dance till you drop to DJ sets, and get your fill of flamboyant costumes and performance at the cabaret shows. If this sounds a bit too much, walk a bit to the slightly more chill Soi Silom 4.

De-stress at Panpuri Wellness’ Japanese-style hot tub

What is it? One of Thailand’s most prominent wellness brands, Panpuri prides itself on its beauty products and indulgent spa programs that maximize the use of traditional ingredients and techniques.

Why go? Panpuri Wellness probably offers one of the most luxurious Japanese onsen experiences in the city. Its hot baths are rich in minerals and aromatic herbs that are good for both your body and mind. Plus the onsen is situated on the 12th floor of Gaysorn Village, so you get to look out to city views while soaking in steaming therapeutic water.

Don’t miss: The onsen, for sure. At only B750 for a one-day pass, it’s an affordable way to relax, and get rid of muscle pains and tiredness. But we suggest going all in and pairing your onsen session with Panpuri’s Signature Holistic Massage or Detox Day wellness package.

Find art inspiration at River City

• Department stores

What is it? An art-focused complex located on Soi Charoenkrung 42’s riverside promenade.  

Why go? No gallery in Bangkok can really compete with River City Bangkok, a five-story building that’s home to 80 sub-venues, from art galleries to antique shops. Stand-out shops include Tang Contemporary Art, which displays Chinese and Southeast Asian pieces, and the huge River City Bangkok-owned RCB Galleria, where big-deal exhibitions are always on.

Don’t miss: The Gallery Shop on the ground floor sells a huge collection of cool stuff, from art books to crafted keepsakes. It also offers products from world-renowned museums such as London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), and New York’s The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA).

Mingle with the cool kids at Warehouse 30

What is it? An old warehouse on Soi Charoenkrung 30 turned into a creative mixed-use space for art and lifestyle pursuits.

Why go? Here is where you can check out how the city’s hip kids spend their weekend. The venue is home to progressive galleries such as 333Anywhere and Aurum Gallery, plus several shops dedicated to the latest fashion trends and cool home decor.

Don’t miss: Aside from those two galleries, Warehouse 30 also ​​has the collectible-based ATTA Gallery and Woot Woot lifestyle shop. There are also cool restaurants and cafés within proximity. Try delicious comfort fare at Sweet Pista or walk a bit to Madi , which functions as both a café and a gallery.

Gag at a drag show at The Stranger Bar

What is it? A drag house on Soi Silom 4 run by Drag Race Thailand Season 2 alum M Stranger Fox and company.

Why go? The Stranger Bar is undoubtedly the place to be if you’re a drag enthusiast. Each night, this compact venue hosts fun performances by beautiful drag queens who you may have seen on the Thai edition of RuPaul’s Drag Race as well as newcomers who may become superstars in the future. (Pangina Heals, Thailand’s most popular drag queen, used to do gigs here, FYI.)

Don’t miss: The drag shows, obviously. So, go grab a drink, and get ready to gag over how fierce Thai drag queens can be. The bar is also committed to turning strangers into friends, so you may just expand your social circle before the night’s over.

Get an interactive education on Thai history at Museum Siam

What is it? An interactive museum, housed in the former Ministry of Commerce building, that brings play and learn together.

Why go? You’ll learn about Thailand’s history and the identity of its people through digitally interactive exhibitions that offer photo-ops galore. Temporary exhibitions and festivals are also regularly hosted at the museum’s spacious lawn.

Don’t miss: Visitors get the chance to slip on Thai period costumes and pose for photos—for free—as part of the permanent exhibition.

Go bar hopping around Soi Nana in Chinatown

What is it? A strip of cool bars that bring a touch of hip to Chinatown.

Why go? The most prominent bars on the stretch— Teens of Thailand , Tep Bar , Ba Hao and Asia Today —are all a few steps away from one another, making it easy to indulge in a night of exotic Thai-inspired drinks and local alternative culture.

Don’t miss : Gin drinks with Thai flavors (like jackfruit or Thai tea) at Teens of Thailand. It’s also the first establishment in Bangkok solely devoted to gin.

Channel your inner bookworm at Open House

What is it? Housed inside Central Embassy , this unique space has lots of natural light, co-working corners, artisanal eateries, and loads and loads of books.

Why go? This is where books, literally, pack the space from floor to ceiling, including art tomes and hardcover titles from famous publishers like Taschen, Phaidon and the like. We don’t have to say that it’s the perfect setting for Instagram.

Don’t miss: Open House has a corner devoted to English-language books about Thailand. A more indie variety can be found here, as well as lifestyle magazines in English.

Indulge in retail therapy at the shopping meccas in Ratchaphrasong

What is it? Bangkok’s best boutiques and best buys are all found on this road, starting from MBK and going all the way to Gaysorn Village.

Why go? No city does shopping malls like Bangkok. Apart from the sheer quantity of products, the spectacular interiors will leave you gawking even if you aren’t a shopaholic.

Don’t miss: The futuristic interiors at Siam Discovery, the behemoth that is centralwOrld, and the polished glamour of Gaysorn Village.

Dance under lasers at Beam

What is it? A two-story cutting-edge club housed among a bevy of other neon-lit food and beverage spots.

Why go? This is where Bangkok’s most beautiful (and moneyed) come out to play at night. A stiff dose of house/techno beats is served on the second level, while hip-hop and electrifying visuals take over the first floor.

Don’t miss: All the state-of-art tech are on the second level—the dance floor actually vibrates.

Stroll through Lumpini Park

What is it? Bangkok’s oldest public spot of greenery.

Why go? It offers respite and peace of mind with its serene lake, well-manicured lawns and heart-shaped walking route. Sightings of monitor lizards and seniors doing aerobics optional.

Don’t miss: The bird’s-eye view of the whole park is breathtaking. It’s best seen from SO Sofitel’s sky bar just across the street.

Sip cocktails at Sing Sing Theater

What is it? A bar and night club stunningly designed to capture the opulence of 1930s chinoiserie.

Why go? Bangkok is proudly home to many of Ashley Sutton’s whimsical creations. The Australian interior designer’s jaw-dropping bars are never short of majestic or magical, with Sing Sing being your gateway to old-world and Hollywood-esque Chinese charm.  

Don’t miss: They do gimmicky performances on the dance floor, so catch the best views from the second floor.

Make your own bespoke room fragrance at Panpuri

What is it? A luxurious beauty brand and spa that gives a fashionable twist to traditional indulgences and ingredients.

Why go? It’s the only Thai beauty brand with a bespoke room fragrance bar, where mixologists help customers create their very own perfume, complete with personalized boxes and wax seals.

Don’t miss: You can choose to bring home your very own scent in a form of candles, room diffusers, or essential oil.    

People-watch at The Commons

What is it ? A loft-like, open-air community mall that food lovers can’t afford to miss.

Why go? The Market on the ground floor is like a super cool canteen that sells trendy eats—from Nashville fried chicken to drip coffee to imported craft beer. Grab a table in the elevated seating area on the stairs to check out hipster patrons on every floor.

Don’t miss: Have your fill of the alcohol-injected shakes at Guss Damn Good. This is the only branch of the Boston-inspired ice cream parlor that serves them with Chandon Brut shots.

Visit the Neilson Hays Library

What is it? A privately funded library in one of the city’s few remaining neoclassical structures.

Why go? The building was designed by Mario Tamagno, the Italian architect who is also behind the stately Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Its charming interiors and peaceful corners make the library a much-loved institution.

Don’t miss: Visit on a Saturday and drop off your little ones at the story-telling session, while you browse through Nielson Hays’ many, many books—there are more than 17,000.

View stunning images at Kathmandu Photo Gallery

What is it? The home to all things Manit Sriwachpoom, a leading Thai contemporary photographer who’s behind the iconic photograph, Pink Man .

Why go? Framed prints are quaintly displayed on green walls inside a pre-war shophouse. On the second floor, temporary exhibitions of other emerging artists offer a visit no less mind-blowing and eye-opening.

Don’t miss: The book corner, which offers spiritually adventurous titles on topics ranging from Hinduism to mountain literature.

Munch on street eats at Tha Prachan

What is it? This bustling riverside area in the old town is filled with shophouse eateries, food stalls and snack carts that have perfected their street eats over the decades.

Why go? You can get a taste of time-honored dishes (look for stalls selling beef noodles), freshly-made stir-fries, and snacks galore.

Don’t miss: If you have limited stomach space, save it for the roti at Roti Mataba or the old-fashioned chao guay (grass jelly) from A Kung.

Catch a movie at first-class cineplexes

What is it? Popular malls such as Central Embassy, CentralWorld, ICONSIAM, EmQuartier and Siam Paragon are all home to world-class theaters that deserve six stars for the movie-watching experience.

Why go? Pillows, blankets, reclining armchairs, humongous sofas, popcorn and soft drinks are the minimum extras at these extravagant theaters. Before the movie starts, relax in their lounges, which offer mocktails and snacks from Haagen Daaz, Starbucks, Paul or even Harrods—all already included in your ticket price.

Don’t miss: If you want a more exciting movie experience, there are also IMAX theaters with 4D effects (fog storms, aromas, snow, you name it) or children’s theaters, which have slides and ball pools for kids.

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

28 Top Attractions & Things to do in Bangkok

With a population of over 9 million inhabitants, Bangkok is one of the biggest cities in the world. Its heavy traffic congestion, intense heat and naughty nightlife do not immediately give visitors a warm welcome. But first impressions can be misleading. It is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities with magnificent temples and palaces, a vibrant nightlife and great shopping, that has something for every traveler.

Ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern marvels, creating an unforgettable tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors. This bustling metropolis, often called the ‘City of Angels’, is Thailand’s captivating capital and a gateway to Southeast Asia’s rich cultural heritage.

Adorned with lavish temples, Bangkok is a city where ancient wonders like Grand Palace and Wat Arun reside adjacent to towering skyscrapers and bustling markets. It is also a city where the tantalizing aroma of street food wafts through the air as you explore lively alleys such as Chinatown and the floating markets.

Beyond these tourist attractions, there are many different experiences and things to do in Bangkok, from tranquil river cruises along the Chao Phraya River to luxurious spa retreats and lively nightlife. Why not embrace the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in the captivating mix of tradition and modernity that make Bangkok a special place to visit?

Due to the city’s congested traffic, the best transport options around Bangkok are the Skytrain, the metro and tuk-tuks. A memorable way to experience Bangkok is by a boat ride on the canals.

28. Yaowarat Road

Located in Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown, Yaowarat Road should be one of the first places you should visit.

The historic district encompasses a bustling stretch of colorful streets and is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and delectable culinary delights.

As you wander through Yaowarat Road, you’ll be able to marvel at the intricate Chinese architecture adorned with ornate dragon sculptures. You can also shop for traditional herbs, spices, and unique souvenirs at the bustling market stalls.

Congruently, indulge your taste buds with an array of mouthwatering street food, from steaming bowls of noodle soup to succulent barbecued meats and tantalizing desserts.

Try also to visit it at night when the neon lights illuminate the streets, creating a captivating atmosphere that captures the vibrant spirit of the community.

27. Erawan Shrine

Nestled amidst the frenetic streets of Bangkok, the Erawan Shrine is a revered cultural landmark.

It is a beautiful shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Brahma that draws visitors worldwide seeking blessings, solace, and a glimpse into Thailand’s spiritual fabric.

Adorned with intricate carvings and colorful decorations, the Erawan Shrine exudes an air of tranquility and reverence. Whilst there, you can witness the captivating sight of devotees offering prayers, lighting incense, and making traditional flower garland offerings. At the same time, delight in the enchanting melodies of Thai classical music and graceful traditional dances performed throughout the day.

The shrine is easy to access, located centrally in the city. However, it is always busy, so it’s worth getting to it early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

26. Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC)

If you love art, visiting the Bangkok Art and Culture Center is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Situated in the Pathum Wan district of the city, it is a dynamic center of creativity that showcases the city’s contemporary art scene.

It occupies several levels of exhibition space and accommodates various galleries, which feature diverse art forms, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works by local and international artists.

Established in 2008, it also incorporates displays, workshops, talks, and performances relating to music, theater, film, and design. Additionally, it houses a library, cafes, and shops where you can browse unique art-related merchandise.

Overall, the center is worth visiting as it offers an enriching insight into Bangkok and Thailand’s fascinating artistic landscape.

25. MBK Center

The MBK Center, also called Mahboonkrong, is a shopaholic’s paradise.

Sprawling across eight floors packed with over 2,000 shops, this iconic shopping complex offers an extensive range of products. They include everything from high fashion and cutting-edge electronics to ornate jewellery and intricate handicrafts.

The center is open every day of the week from 10 am until 10 pm. It is just as well because you could easily spend a day here discovering its treasure trove of bargains, trendy fashion items, and the latest gadgets.

As well as a total shopping destination, the center is a prominent place for foodies. Within it is an expansive food court of restaurants offering a vast array of Thai and international dishes, as good as anything you can get in Bangkok.

24. Wat Saket

Perched atop the Golden Mount, Wat Saket offers a serene escape.

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, ascending the 318 steps to its summit rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

With its gleaming golden chedi (stupa), this sacred temple holds great significance for locals and pilgrims. During your visit, you should explore the temple grounds and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of beautiful statues, lush greenery, and intricate Buddhist artwork.

You may also want to ring the temple’s giant bell, a traditional act believed to bring good fortune. Should you be visiting Bangkok in November, be sure to check out the annual temple fair. It is a high-spirited celebration featuring markets, food stalls, and cultural performances you are sure to enjoy.

23. Bangkok National Museum

The Bangkok National Museum is a terrific place to visit to learn more about Thailand’s history, art, and culture.

You’ll find it in a former palace, once owned by the vice king, that faces the Sanam Luang and lies between National Theater and Thammasat University.

Providing insight into the country’s past, it has an extensive collection showcasing various artefacts. They include ancient sculptures, intricate royal regalia, exquisite paintings, and centuries-old ceramics.

Highlights include the stunning King Rama IV throne hall and the exquisite exhibits from the Ayutthaya period, which captivate with their intricate details.

The best way to experience the museum is to go on a guided tour, as your knowledgeable guide will relate some fascinating backstories about individual exhibits.

22. Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a contemporary waterfront destination in Bang Kho Laem that seamlessly blends shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this open-air complex is a terrific place to spend a day. You can stroll along its promenade and browse in the boutique fashion, handicrafts, and souvenir shops. At the same time, you can enjoy cultural performances, live music, and theatrical shows on the outdoor stage.

There are also plenty of food stalls, eateries, and restaurants you can visit offering an excellent range of Thai and international dishes. When night falls, you should ride the iconic Ferris wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city’s illuminated skyline. Just be sure to take your camera with you!

21. Chao Phraya River Cruise

Embarking on a Chao Phraya River Cruise is a captivating way to explore the city’s enchanting waterways and iconic landmarks.

By stepping aboard a luxurious boat, you can sail along the majestic river, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of Bangkok’s skyline.

Along the way, you will glide past historic temples, such as Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, with their golden spires shimmering in the sunlight. You’ll also be able to marvel at the grandeur of the Royal Grand Palace and observe the bustling river life unfold before you.

To elevate the experience, you can choose to indulge in a delectable dinner buffet or enjoy a romantic sunset cocktail. But regardless of whether you choose a daytime excursion or an enchanting evening cruise, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

20. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Another must-visit cultural attraction for art lovers is MOCA – The Museum of Contemporary Art. Housed within a striking white building which in itself is a work of art, the gallery takes you on a captivating journey through the evolution of Thai art.

Its impressive collection of modern and contemporary displays spans several levels and galleries. They are filled with thought-provoking paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia exhibits by renowned Thai artists.

From traditional Thai motifs to cutting-edge experimental pieces, the collection represents the diverse artistic expressions of the country. You’ll need the best part of the day to visit the museum, especially if you want to attend artist talks.

It also runs workshops, enabling you to delve deeper into the artistry and concepts behind the exhibits.

19. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the traditional Thai way of life is to visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

This iconic market is about 100 km from the city, encapsulating the charm and spirit of Thailand’s cultural heritage. It comprises a vibrant maze of wooden boats that float along narrow canals, brimming with colorful fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts.

While the market is officially open until 4 pm, the best time to visit is around 7 am. To do so, you must take a memorable long-tail boat ride through the bustling waterways, observing the hustle and bustle of the market from a unique perspective.

If you do, you can sample delicious local snacks, like fresh coconut pancakes and tropical fruits, while bartering with effervescent vendors.

18. Visit a Rooftop Bar

Ascend to the uppermost levels of towering skyscrapers and indulge in breathtaking panoramic views while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. Each venue offers a unique ambiance and atmosphere, from the iconic Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower to the trendy Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar. At them, you can watch the sunset or the city’s glittering lights as you unwind in stylish surroundings and enjoy live music or DJ sets.

Many rooftop bars also offer exceptional food experiences, including Thai and fusion cuisine. So, whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a lively night out, Bangkok’s rooftop bars will not disappoint.

17. Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Between 1350 and 1767, Ayutthaya was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Siam. So it is worth taking a day trip from Bangkok to see its rich history and architectural wonders.

About 80 km from the city, Ayutthaya is a sprawling ruin of Buddhist temples, palaces, statues, and monasteries, showcasing the once-thriving kingdom’s grandeur. Its main highlight is the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat. Additionally, the intricate carvings of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol are also noteworthy.

Because the site is so big, renting a bicycle is a good idea as this will make it easier to traverse it. The archaeological site is also on an island which lies between 3 rivers. Therefore, a boat ride along them is another good way to explore.

16. Queen Saovabha Institute Snake Farm

If you do not like reptiles, give the Queen Saovabha Institute Snake Farm a miss. However, if you are okay with Serpentes, this is one of the most intriguing tourist attractions in.Bangkok on offer.

Housed within the premises of the Thai Red Cross Society, this fascinating institution is dedicated to research, conservation, and public education about snakes.

Whilst there, you can explore the farm’s facilities and witness captivating live snake handling demonstrations by experienced handlers.

You can also learn about various species and their behavior, including cobras, vipers, and pythons while understanding their importance in multiple ecosystems.

Additionally, you can gain insight into venom extraction and the production of life-saving antivenom. The Snake Farm also provides a valuable resource for snakebite victims, offering medical treatments and support.

15. Wat Suthat

Bangkok has its fair share of temples, and it’s possible to get ‘templed-out’. But one you should make a point of visiting is Wat Suthat.

One of the most revered temples in the city, it is located in the Old City and boasts a striking red façade and exquisite architectural details.

The magnificent Buddhist temple features stunning wall murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures. It also has massive red and gold teakwood doors, intricately carved with mythological figures.

The centerpiece of Wat Suthat is the towering Giant Swing, a symbol of Hindu influence in Thai culture. The swing, constructed towards the back end of the 18th century, is 20 meters high and was used regularly in Brahmanic ceremonies.

14. Lumpinee Boxing Stadium

If you are a fan of Muay Thai, you’ll want to visit the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium. It is the national sport of Thailand, which locals passionately follow.

This iconic venue is located in the city’s Pathum Wan district and is excellent for watching combat sports. It presents world-class Muay Thai fights showcasing the participants’ athleticism, speed, skill, and cultural significance.

Fighters compete over five rounds of 2-minute durations. Overall there are about around 20 separate fights on any card.

The stadium has a capacity of 9500, and as you witness these intense contests, the energy in the air is incredible. Its aura, with roaring crowds and traditional music, offers an adrenaline-pumping immersion into the heart and soul of this captivating contact sport.

13. Terminal 21

If you still want to shop after visiting MBK, you should head to Terminal 21.

What sets this destination apart from other malls is the concept and attention to detail of its design. Not so much a shopping mall but a unique and captivating retail experience, it transports visitors to different global destinations.

Featuring a design that resembles an airport, each floor represents a different city replete with iconic landmarks and themed decor. So, you can shop in London, Tokyo, Istanbul, or several other iconic cities.

The various shops and boutiques offer a wide range of fashion, accessories, electronics, art, and kitchenware. You can also enjoy dining at a fantastic international food court, where each section reflects the culinary delights of a specific country.

12. Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon is yet another of Bangkok’s premier shopping and lifestyle destinations.

One of the largest malls in Thailand, it offers a wide range of high-end fashion brands, luxury boutiques, and international designer labels. Thus making it a paradise for fashion enthusiasts.

As you explore the multi-level complex, you will discover an impressive selection of cosmetics, electronics, home furnishings, and gourmet delicacies. You will even see car showrooms showcasing an exclusive range of fancy sports cars.

In addition, Siam Paragon houses a magnificent cinema, an art gallery, and a diverse range of dining options. They range from upscale fine dining restaurants to hip and trendy cafes.

It also boasts opulent architecture and stunning displays that exude sophistication and style, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

11. Wat Prakeaw

Visiting Wat Phra Kaew – often referred to as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha -is an awe-inspiring experience.

Situated within the grounds of the Grand Palace, this sacred temple is home to the revered Emerald Buddha, a small statue carved from a single block of jade.

During your time there, you can admire the intricate details of the temple’s architecture, resplendent with colorful mosaic tiles, golden spires, and ornate carvings. You can also explore the various pavilions and halls that house exquisite Buddhist artifacts and stunning murals depicting mythological scenes.

As one of Thailand’s most important religious sites, Wat Phra Kaew offers a unique glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage and cultural significance. It also has a serene atmosphere that invites contemplation and reverence as you explore it.

10. Dusit Palace

Located in the Dusit district of Bangkok, Dusit Palace is a sprawling palace complex that presents the elegance and splendor of Thai royalty.

The fascinating complex features serene gardens with manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and tranquil ponds, perfect for strolling through.

It encompasses several magnificent buildings, including the Vimanmek Mansion, the largest teakwood building in the world.

Resplendent with a hexagonal roof, the mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of King Rama V. Its lavishly decorated rooms are filled with royal artifacts, intricate woodwork, and beautiful handicrafts.

Elsewhere, the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, with its white marble façade, is another remarkable sight. You can discover the palace’s rich history and cultural significance through fascinating guided tours and informative exhibits.

9. Wat Traimit

Whilst in Thailand, you will notice a lot of Buddhas. One of the largest of them resides at Wat Traimit in the Chinatown area.

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, it is famous for housing a solid gold Buddha statue weighing a staggering five and a half tons!

Even though it is nearly five meters tall, the gleaming golden Buddha statue was out of sight for many years. The figure was covered with colored glass and a stucco layer and was only discovered by chance when a plaster exterior cracked, revealing its true splendor.

Today visitors can admire its intricate craftsmanship and serene expression, symbolizing prosperity and spiritual significance. You can also explore the temple complex, adorned with elegant decorations and traditional architecture.

8. Chatuchak Weekend Market

You can’t visit Bangkok and not go to the Chatuchak Weekend Market!

A sprawling shopper’s paradise, the iconic market features over 8,000 stalls offering an endless assortment of goods.

You’ll find it all here, from clothing and accessories to handicrafts, home decor, plants, and antiques, and bartering is expected. Prices are relatively inexpensive, so try to exercise some self-control!

Navigating the market’s labyrinthine lanes, you’ll immerse yourself in a sensory feast of colors, scents, and sounds. You can also indulge in delectable street food from the various regions of Thailand as you explore.

The market’s lively atmosphere, bustling crowds, and bargaining opportunities create a unique and energetic ambiance. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it is worth coming here to experience the vibe.

7. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is a legendary street renowned for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

A haven for backpackers and travelers, it offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and excitement.

Whilst there, stroll along the bustling street lined with shops, market stalls, and street food vendors offering a wide range of local delicacies and souvenirs.

You should also take the opportunity to explore its vibrant nightlife. Its array of bars, clubs, and live music venues creates an electric atmosphere where you can party well into the early hours. Khao San Road is also a hub for budget accommodations, making it a popular choice for those seeking affordable lodgings.

The real attraction of Khao San Road, though, is its energetic spirit. So make sure you embrace it as you traverse its buzzing street scene.

6. Jim Thompson’s House

Jim Thompson’s House in Bangkok is a captivating museum. It pays homage to the life and legacy of Jim Thompson, a visionary American entrepreneur who revitalized the Thai silk industry.

This charming complex showcases traditional Thai architecture and houses an impressive collection of Southeast Asian art and artifacts.

The museum also offers insights into Thai culture, history, and art through guided tours. During your visit, you can explore the beautifully preserved teakwood house, surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil ponds.

You should also pay particular attention to the exquisite craftsmanship, intricate woodwork, and stunning antiques that define the interiors.

Additionally, take the opportunity to learn about Jim Thompson’s contributions to the silk industry and his mysterious disappearance – a still unsolved case.

5. Lumphini Park

Bangkok is a high-octane city, so you’ll want a change of place at some point during your trip there.

At this time, a trip to Lumphini Park is a good idea. This expansive green space is situated in the heart of the city and offers a welcome retreat from the urban chaos.

Whilst there, you can stroll along the tree-lined pathways, surrounded by lush greenery, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The park features a large lake where visitors can rent paddleboats and leisurely explore the serene waters.

It’s also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, yoga, and tai chi. The park isn’t short of fauna either – monitor lizards roam, adding a touch of wildlife to the surroundings.

4. Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Referenced in the song ‘One Night In Bangkok’ by Murray Head, The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a renowned Buddhist temple in Bangkok.

Locally known as Wat Pho, it houses one of the world’s most significant and impressive reclining Buddha statues, measuring an astounding 46 meters long.

The golden statue is the main attraction, featuring intricate details and a serene expression. However, the temple complex also has beautiful architecture, colorful tiles, ornate spires, and elaborate murals depicting Buddhist stories that are also captivating.

Wat Pho is also famous for being Thailand’s first public university and it remains a center for traditional Thai medicine and massage. For this reason, you might want to indulge in a traditional Thai massage at the school within the temple grounds.

3. CentralWorld

If you still fancy a bit more shopping, a trip to CentralWorld is worth considering.

Another massive shopping and lifestyle destination, it features over 500 shops and boutiques, including most of the world’s most renowned international brands.

It’s more than just the big boys represented, though, as many local designers also run outlets in the mall.

A one-stop destination for all your shopping needs, everything from fashion and electronics to home decor and jewellery, is available here.

As you would expect, several exceptional dining options are also onsite, ranging from traditional street food to elevated international cuisine.

Additionally, CentralWorld hosts a regular program of exciting events, exhibitions, and entertainment at any given time, making it a vibrant entertainment destination too.

2. Wat Arun

Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s premier tourist attractions.

A Buddhist temple in the Bangkok Yai district, the striking landmark resides on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

It is also known as the Temple of Dawn and accommodates a design of porcelain tiles and delicate seashells, reflecting sunlight and creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. When the sun starts to set, the temple illuminates brilliantly against the darkening sky.

Impressively, it was designed specifically for this to happen. It is named after Aruna, the Hindu god often depicted as the rising sun’s radiations.

When you visit Wat Arun, try to ascend the steep steps of the central prang. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the river and the surrounding area.

1. Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is probably the most famous of Bangkok’s tourist sites and attractions.

The construction of the Grand Palace started in 1782 when the capital of Siam was moved from Thonburi to Bangkok. The palace served as the residence of the Kings of Thailand until the mysterious death of King Ananda Mahidol in 1946. His brother King Bhumibol Adulyadej who succeeded him moved permanently to the Chitralada Palace.

This sprawling complex showcases a blend of Thai, European, and other Asian architectural styles. It has served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since the 18th century.

The Grand Palace offers a glimpse into Thailand’s royal history with its intricate murals, stunning throne halls, and magnificent gardens.

There are several buildings to explore, with features like golden spires and elegant, intricate detailing.

One area you should spend some time appreciating is the Emerald Buddha. Sitting within the Wat Phra Kaew temple, it is made from a solid piece of beautiful green jade, clothed in gold and diamonds, and has a real ‘WOW’ factor.

Map of Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

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Reader interactions.

April 12, 2014 at 10:16 pm

I am in Bangkok now! I have read your post! It’s very helpful and full of details! I have been to some places already! And going to the rest of your list! Thanks

March 24, 2014 at 4:23 am

Wow what a nice city bangkok. I love very much.

September 7, 2013 at 2:09 am

Bangkok is really a nice city with all kind of tourist attractions. I have been to Bangkok many times before and I am feeling so happy after reading your post because you have written much informative content about major tourist attractions in Bangkok. You just remind my memories of trip to Bangkok. Thanks for the post.

January 11, 2013 at 4:54 pm

it is really beautiful

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions Bangkok

63 Attractions You Must Visit in Bangkok

Bangkok is an incredible city with a very eclectic list of attractions you must visit. The Thai capital has many identities. A foodie city. A holy city. The City of Sin. Sampling all of them is a big ask, but Culture Trip has pulled together the complete list of things to do so you can squeeze out every last drop of Bangkok’s potential.

1. grand palace and wat phra kaew.

Buddhist Temple

3. Chatuchak Weekend Market

5. wat traimit.

6. Khao San Road

Architectural Landmark, Market

Known as a haven for backpackers, Khao San Road is a kilometre-long street filled with countless bars, street-food vendors, chain restaurants and some of the cheapest hotels and hostels. Backpackers flock here to mix, mingle and party day and night as bar girls entice onlookers with happy-hour deals and buckets filled with beer. Drugs run rampant around this stretch, but getting caught in Bangkok comes with serious ramifications – stick to the booze.

7. Bangkok National Museum

8. wat suthat.

9. Erawan Shrine

10. asiatique the riverfront, 11. lumpini park, 12. yaowarat road.

13. Bang Krachao

14. baiyoke observation deck.

Architectural Landmark

Set atop the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, one of the tallest hotels in the world, the Baiyoke observation deck soars 77 floors above Bangkok, while the revolving viewpoint is on the 84th floor, providing some of the most stellar views of the city. One of the best ways to experience it is to go for dinner at the Baiyoke Sky Restaurant, which serves up a scrumptious seafood buffet as the sun sets over the skyscrapers around the city.

15. Chao Phraya River

Natural Feature

Bangkok has often been called the Venice of the East for its winding river and canals. A very cool way to experience the waterways is to take a riverboat cruise on a vintage rice barge. For 2.5 hours, you’ll get to explore Bangkok’s banks and see how local merchants move up and down the canals, selling food, trinkets and other things.

16. Muay Thai Show

17. Art in Paradise Bangkok

Amusement Park

Dubbed as Thailand’s largest 3D art museum, Art in Paradise is an interactive museum filled with 3D paintings in a wide range of styles. There are six permanent exhibits with varying concepts, such as riding a flying carpet or stairway to hell, where you can make yourself part of the painting and, of course, fill your Instagram feed with the results. There are 150 paintings in all that took nearly three months to complete, and visitors are encouraged to touch, play and get inside the 3D world.

18. The Khlongs

Bangkok was once a flourishing trade centre, connecting areas of the expansive Siam Kingdom through its series of canals – or khlongs – throughout the Chao Phraya River Delta. Today, these narrow waterways of Thonburi still evoke the city’s old soul, lined as they are with floating wooden shopfronts, weathered teak homes and quiet temples. You can hire a colourful long-tail boat from any of the major tourist piers, like Tha Tien, or go hassle-free with a tour that picks you up right from your hotel. Pandan Tours are recommended, and cost around 500THB (£13) an hour for a boat rental, or 2,000THB (£53) per person for a day-long tour. Recommended by Leslie Finlay .

19. Jay Fai, the world's only Michelin-star street cart

Food Stall, Thai

The so-called ‘Queen of Thai street food’ runs the city’s only Michelin-star street cart, serving up fiery portions of noodles and curries from her two woks. Known locally as Jay Fai – or Sister Mole, a nod to her quirky style and the ski goggles she wears for eye protection – her shopfront is famous for its huge crab omelettes, earning her a spot on the recent Netflix special Street Food . If seafood is not your thing, there are plenty more savoury takes on Thai staples on the menu, from gravy-laden drunken noodles to spicy glass-noodle salad. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

20. Blue Elephant culinary school

Restaurant, Asian

21. Mahanakhon Skywalk

At 310 metres (1,017 feet) high, this transparent glass skydeck extends over the edge of the King Power Mahanakhon building – Thailand’s tallest building – with uninterrupted views of Bangkok in every direction. The rooftop features Thailand’s newly crowned highest bar, with a full menu of champagne, spirits, wines and beers available in case you need a little liquid courage before stepping out over the edge. There’s also an indoor observation deck and the building’s highest point, The Peak, which offers full 360-degree panoramic views over the massive capital city. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

22. Pak Khlong Talat flower market

23. ko kret.

Bangkok’s largest river island lies in the northern district of Nonthaburi. Here urbanity fades to sleepy rural landscapes of small villages and paddy fields. The island has long been famous for its traditional pottery makers, who sculpt elaborately decorated earthenware – water containers, vases – from the local clay. Riverboats for Koh Kret leave from a pier under the Rama IV Bridge. Tour the island by bike – locals rent them at the arrival jetty. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

24. Jim Thompson House Museum

25. Democracy Monument

26. rama viii bridge, 27. patpong night market, rod fai night market srinakarin.

Well known for its antique zone, the Rod Fai Night Market is a vintage lover’s dream store, packed with classic cars, antique furniture and other relics of a bygone era. The market is a bit outside the city; to get there, take the BTS Skytrain to the On Nut station. From there, it’s a short 15-minute taxi ride.

Bangkok is no stranger to seedy nightlife, and one of the liveliest areas to experience all things illicit is at Soi Cowboy. This street blinds you with neon lights advertising go-go bars, strip shows and generally anything else you could think of. The street itself is named after the man who opened up the first bar here and was known for wearing a cowboy hat, hence the name Soi Cowboy.

Artist’s House

The Artist’s House in Thonburi is a unique attraction in Bangkok that sits right along the banks of one of the many khlongs (canals). It is a place where creative minds can gather, work, grab a coffee and watch a traditional Thai puppetry show, which takes place at 2pm on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Artist’s House is over 200 years old and is a great place to spend a quiet afternoon and witness brooding Thai teens spending time hanging out and getting away from the otherwise hectic city.

Siam Paragon

Bangkok is truly a shopper’s paradise . For lovers of all things fashion, there’s Siam Paragon, a bustling and gleaming shopping centre filled with high-end boutiques and major design labels. The building’s recognisable exterior is visible from the platform of the Sky Train, as gold pillars rise in a large glass entryway, beckoning shoppers to swipe their credit cards. Also, inside the megaplex is a giant aquarium, ultra-lux movie theatre and an ever-changing lot of exhibitions in art, design and fashion.

International Buddhist Meditation Centre at Wat Mahathat

The Land of Smiles didn’t earn its moniker without a bit of soul-searching. Thailand’s Buddhist tradition is grounded in Vipassana meditation, a practice centred on mindfulness and gratitude. There are centres throughout the city that offer everything from introductory classes to multi-week silent retreats, or to just test the waters you could check out the International Buddhist Meditation Centre at Wat Mahathat, right near the Grand Palace. Three free guided meditation classes are held daily from 7am to 10am, 1pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm, assisted by English-speaking monks. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

The murals of Phra Nakhon

In 2018, the Thai government commissioned 10 street artists to design murals throughout the Phra Nakhon neighbourhood. Beginning at the Pipit Banglamphu Museum, you can follow a self-guided walking or bicycle tour through Bangkok’s Old Town. The murals on the route reflect the spirit of the neighbourhood’s unique communities, depicting artists’ interpretations of local crafts, traditions and foods. You can also take a break from the city heat at the museum itself, which highlights the area’s long history of mixed cultures, music, silver and goldsmithing and unique crafts like banana stalk carving. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Wattana Panich, for the city’s oldest soup

The chefs at Wattana Panich have been cooking the same pot of soup for the last 60 years and over three generations. This family-run kitchen in Ekkamai is famous for its beef stew, and they are constantly topping up the enormous cauldron with fresh ingredients that are absorbed into the broth, ever deepening the flavour. The exact recipe is a prized family secret. Each morning, 25 kilograms (55 pounds) of fresh beef is added straight to the pot and cooked twice, then served with a selection of menu items. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Tha Prachan Market

This century-old market along the Chao Phraya features enormous collections of amulets with images of the Buddha, enlightened monks, Thai kings and more. In Thai Buddhist tradition, amulets are blessed by monks to guard against bad fortune or bring good luck. The most powerful ones are made with additions like ash from a sacred temple, or hair from a famous monk, to bolster their protective powers. Replicas fetch a few dozen baht and are considered good enough for garnering a daily dose of good fortune. But throughout the market there are prized pieces that attract the attention of dedicated collectors, who conduct their own appraisals and argue over the backstories and histories of individual amulets. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Thipsamai, for an authentic pad thai

This famous noodle dish has a unique – and surprisingly recent – history. Developed by the country’s prime minister after World War II in response to the high cost of rice production, its creation also served to unite the country’s provinces with a single national dish. Thipsamai in Bangkok’s Old City opened in the 1950s as one of the country’s first pad thai stalls, and adheres to the same family recipe today. Using soft sen chan noodles, a secret prawn-oil recipe and expertly thin egg wrap, Thipsamai whips up its signature dish over searing hot charcoal with a routine that takes its resident chefs more than three months to learn. The effort recently earned the local haunt a Bib Gourmand Award for exceptionally good food at a modest price. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Baan Dok Pud for sweet tooth delights

Thailand’s cuisine is famously spicy, but its menus also offer decadently sweet dessert options, beautifully prepared and infused with local flavours. Staples like mango sticky rice are available at any street market or Thai restaurant, and different communities feature their own unique fare, like the Portuguese-inspired Kudeejeen cupcake from Bangkok’s Old City. But don’t miss treating yourself to the full spread of traditional Thai sweets. Baan Dok Pud in Lad Phrao has a gorgeous – and air-conditioned – space surrounded by a quiet koi pond, and serves colourful dessert sets afternoon tea-style. Try the bua loy , glutinous rice balls filled with mung bean paste drenched in coconut milk, or the popular tong yip , flower-shaped egg yolk tarts. Some Thai desserts are even believed to bring good luck , so there’s no need for sweetness in moderation. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Bangkok Float Center

Thailand’s wellness tradition has forged full-speed into the 21st century. At Bangkok Float, floaters are immersed in magnesium-infused saltwater kept exactly at room temperature, fooling your body into thinking it’s hovering in mid-air. The experience is designed for floaters to achieve the deep delta-wave state of mind of Buddhist monks more easily than through traditional meditation, while reportedly resetting the body’s hormonal and metabolic balance, improving immunity and generating high levels of endorphins. Recommended by Leslie Finlay.

Banjakitti Park

Banjakitti is an island of cool green in the city’s sweltering, concrete centre. The nearest metro station is Queen Sirikit and you’ll arrive to find it set around a lake of slowly circling turtles, between Sukhumvit road and the skyscraper-spiked mall district of Pathum Wan. A popular spot for a morning walk – a shady path runs around the lake – it attracts couples in the evenings, taking selfies against the neon skyline, mirrored like a liquid mosaic in the water. Recommended by Alex Robinson .

Bangkok University Gallery (BUG)

Housed in a striking neo-brutalist concrete building on the Bangkok University campus in the far north of the city, BUG is one of the largest spaces devoted to contemporary art in Southeast Asia. Much of the work on display is by artists from the university’s School of Fine and Applied Arts – one of the leading private education art institutions in the country. There are occasional shows by visiting international names, as well as by the current artist in residence. You will be absolutely captivated as you wander. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

Thailand Art and Culture Centre

Bangkok’s leading cultural centre combines gallery spaces, performance venues, theatres and workshops. It’s the best place in the land to see work by the cream of contemporary Thai creatives like Pinaree Sanpitak, whose work uses abstract shapes to meditate on the female form. There are also works by Buddhist-inspired painters such as Kanokpon Somchua and polemical photographers like Manit Sriwanichpoom. There’s a shop selling arty accessories and cards as well as a small movie theatre. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

Wat Ratchabophit

Few visitors ever make it to this peaceful temple – only a ten-minute stroll from the tourist-teeming Grand Palace. But it’s one of Thailand’s most illustrious: a royal temple, it is the home of the country’s Supreme Patriarch. The garden grounds are tranquil, the great golden chedi covered in glistening ceramic tiles and the main ubosot, or ordination hall, is built in the English neo-gothic style loved by King Rama V, resembling an Anglican chapel. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

Neilson Hays Library

Looking like a library from an Oxbridge college, this stately neoclassical building sits in a leafy garden in the busy, business-orientated Bangrak district. The establishment preserves the largest collection of English-language books in Thailand and was founded in 1869 by the Bangkok Ladies’ Library Association – a small group of British and North American women who set up an association to exchange books within the then tiny expat population. The library is open to non-members for a small fee. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

Jesada Technik Museum

You’ll find this quirky museum on the banks of the Chao Phraya River next to the Phra Pin Klao Bridge in Thonburi. Comprising the personal transport collection of Thai millionaire (and President of Chase Engineering), Jesada Dejsakulrit, there are military transport aircraft, double-decker buses, a submarine, classic British, French and American town cars and one of the world’s largest fleets of bubble cars. Recommended by Alex Robinson.

Victory Monument

Victory Monument is one of the most recognisable architectural landmarks in the city. The military monument, constructed in 1941, sits in the centre of one of the largest intersections in Bangkok, in the Ratchathewi district. The rising obelisk at its centre resembles a sword, its point facing the sky as if trying to slice through the smog-ridden city air. Around the focal point of the monument are five smaller statues that represent Thailand’s police, navy, army, air force and militia.

PTT Forest in the City

The aim of PTT Forest in the City was to create a more balanced local ecosystem by transforming what was previously a garbage dump into a green space. Designed by oil and gas company PTT, the park includes a skywalk where you can see the trees from above, which leads to a tower with a 360-degree view of the forest. It’s a great example of how architecture and innovative city planning can be tools to help fight climate change, and one of Ueasangkhomset’s recommendations for Bangkok visitors.

Phra Sumeru Fortress

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River , the Phra Sumeru Fortress is one architectural landmark few tourists frequent. The fortress, located in Banglamphu, is surprisingly close to the infamous Khao San Road , a stretch of road that welcomes backpackers from all over the world. Those who find themselves wanting to escape the buckets of booze and herds of foreigners should take an afternoon to check out this landmark, one of the largest fortresses in the city. Though visitors cannot go into the structure, it sits in a quaint park, and can be photographed from afar. The Phra Sumeru Fortress was built in 1783 during the reign of King Rama I and was one of 14 fortresses constructed in Bangkok during this time. Today, it is one of two forts that remain in the capital.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is a must-see gallery for any art-loving traveller exploring the city. The building was meticulously designed to provide visitors with an amazing visual experience, as its winding shape is ideal for displaying art. The centre is also home to numerous cafés, restaurants, an art library, eco-friendly souvenir shops, a prayer room and more.

Santa Cruz Church

The Santa Cruz Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Cross, is one of the most iconic structures located along the western banks of the Chao Phraya River. Located in the old capital of Thonburi , the church is one of the oldest in the capital, built during the reign of King Taksin in the 18th century. The King gave the Portuguese community that was dwelling in Thonburi a plot of land so that they could build and expand their community. Even though the Portuguese built the church, its architecture is heavily influenced by Chinese aesthetics.

Kalawar Church

When the Roman Catholic Portuguese community relocated to Bangkok, they made their home in the riverside community of Talad Noi , one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, found in Chinatown. The community constructed a religious structure here known as the Kalawar Church, built in 1787 and previously known as Kalawario. The original church burned down, but was rebuilt in 1897. Its Gothic architecture is complemented by its riverside location, with its grand entrance facing the Chao Phraya River. Today, it is also known as the Holy Rosary Church.

Bank of Thailand Learning Centre

Designed by architects Creative Crews in 2018, the Bank of Thailand Learning Centre revived an old factory – the country’s first note printing works – and turned it into an educational centre. While retaining some of the original features, Creative Crews also added a slew of new details. They created landscape steps that invite visitors to the second floor, and removed solid walls to evoke a feeling of openness. The location, on the much-loved Chao Phraya River, means the centre also benefits from lovely water views through its giant windows.

The Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Bangkok

Recommended by Paul Feinstein .

28. Dine down the river on an antique rice barge

One of the best ways to see Bangkok’s most famous sites is to cruise up and down the Chao Phraya River while dining on authentic Thai cuisine. A typical river cruise slowly moves up the water around sunset so you can see the glistening temples against the low light. This experience allows you to enjoy a two-hour dinner, along with traditional music and Thai dancing.

29. Siam Amazing Park

Amusement Park, Park

Flight of the Gibbon

If you’re looking to get your heart pumping while basking in Thailand’s lush rainforests, there’s nothing quite like a zip-line excursion on the outskirts of the city. Flight of the Gibbon is a zip-line company that will pick you up and drop you off in Bangkok, escorting you south to Pattaya where they have three kilometres (1.9 miles) of zip lines that rise above the Chonburi forest canopy. Guides also teach visitors about the merits of eco-tourism and the state of the jungle in today’s hectic world.

Safari World

For lovers of animals but not necessarily zoos, Safari World on the outskirts of Bangkok hits the sweet spot. The amusement park features two sections: Marine Park – which is like SeaWorld – and Safari Park, where you can drive your car to see all the animals. The Safari Park has hundreds of species, including zebras, rhinos and giraffes, in addition to more predatory animals like lions, tigers and bears. The animals all roam free, and you can get very close to the action in your vehicle or one of the park’s shuttles. Getting here requires a car, bus, minivan or taxi as there’s no rail service to this area of the city.

Taki Racing School

For the thrill seeker, there’s a racing experience in Bangkok that is not to be missed. Experience Formula Renault driving at the Taki Racing School, where you can achieve speeds of up to 230 kilometres (143 miles) per hour. The costs here are not cheap, with a half-day running in the 15,000 Thai baht (£379) range and a full day at 35,000 baht (£884), but this experience is unlike any other racing opportunity you’ll ever get.

The Best Things To Do With Kids in Bangkok

30. dream world, 31. flow house bangkok, siam ocean world.

Explore the ocean from the comfort of Siam Paragon, one of the most luxurious malls in Bangkok. It is here where you will find Siam Ocean World , an underwater oasis filled with exotic marine creatures. Once inside, you will travel through an all glass tunnel that showcases a wide array of sea life swimming in every direction. Online tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance and they start at ฿790 for children aged 3-11 years old (children under the age of three get in for free). Siam Ocean World can be found inside Siam Paragon. To get here, you can either take a taxi (every driver will know Siam) or you can take the BTS Skytrain to the Siam station.

BOUNCEinc Thailand

BOUNCEinc Thailand is unlike any attraction in Bangkok; with floor to ceiling trampolines, kids can bounce from one area to the next with ease. There are over 80 trampolines in BOUNCEinc Thailand’s facility, which just opened last December. Prices range anywhere from ‎฿350 (about $10) for students and juniors to ‎฿1,400 (about $40) for a family of four.

Speed demons will love Easykart Bangkok , one of the only racetracks in the city, and this attraction has cars specially designed for children. Its intricate course weaves in and out of its indoor facility with excitement at every curve. There is a lounging area with a pool table, foosball table, restaurant and more that you can enjoy while your child speeds (safely) around the course. Children race for ฿500-600 (about $17); however, the price depends on their size. Riders who are 15 years old and older, or those who are at least 150 centimeters tall, can purchase two races for ฿1,300 (about $37). To get here, take the BTS Skytrain to the Thonglor station; it is about a 40-minute walk from the station, so grabbing a taxi is suggested.

The Commons

Let your kids loose and have the freedom and ability to get creative at The Commons . This outdoor mall has an entire level dedicated to play, known as the Play Yard. It is on this level you will find Little Pea, a restaurant that doubles as a playroom. With fun activities, children’s books, art classes and more, Little Pea is so much more than a place to grab a bite to eat. To get here, take the BTS Skytrain to the Thonglor station; it is about a 20-minute walk from the there or a short taxi ride.

Children’s Discovery Museum

If you are looking for a family-fun activity that is a little less action packed than the activities listed above, then be sure to head to the Children’s Discovery Museum. The museum just underwent renovations in 2014 and will have your family entertained for the entire day. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits, educational displays that encourage play and even a science gallery. To get to the Children’s Discovery Museum, take the BTS Skytrain to Mochit.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bangkok 2024

• Best Times to Bangkok
• Worst Times to Visit Bangkok
• Peak Season in Bangkok
• Shoulder Season in Bangkok
• Low Season in Bangkok

Bangkok Weather and Travel: Month by Month

Bangkok has a tropical monsoon climate and generally remains hot and humid throughout the year. Bangkok has three seasons: hot, rainy, and "cool" and dry.

The coolest and driest months are December and January, with almost no rainfall and an average low of 22°C (72°F) and high of 31°C (88°F), so still warm, but not so hot.

The hottest month is April, with an average high of 35°C (95°F) and low of 27°C (80°F). The high rainfall starts around mid-May and reaches its maximum in September.

Best Times to Visit Bangkok

Though Bangkok is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise is from November to February. The weather is not-so-hot and mostly sunny, which is very suitable for sightseeing.

You will find big discounts if you travel between June and October due to the rainy season. It is usually the cheapest time of year to go to Bangkok.

If you want to experience Thailand's top festivals, then come in April or November, which are the months for Thai New Year (a.k.a. Songkran Festival) and Loy Krathong respectively.

In the middle and end of the year, Bangkok, the shopping paradise, offers attractive discounts at major shopping malls.

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The Worst Times to Visit Bangkok

Located in the tropics, Bangkok can be scorching and humid on some days, which would be the worst time to visit if you can't stand that sort of weather.

• April and May are times to avoid if you don't like scorching heat and a muggy feeling.
• September to early October is the rainiest time. If you don't like the rain, then this is the period you should avoid.

However, at those times you can find the most favorable prices and enjoy less-crowded attractions.

The heat can also be avoided as much as possible by organizing your schedule wisely.

Although rain is a bit of a nuisance, it usually rains in the late afternoon or early evening. So, it wouldn't affect your whole visit.

>>> Thailand's Rainy Season: When It Is and the 5 Best Places to Go

Peak Season in Bangkok (November to February)

The most popular time to travel to Bangkok is from November to February with its comfortable weather. However, it also brings higher trip costs and large number of travelers.

Bangkok in November — Comfortable with Little Rain

• Average low/high temperature: 24°C/32°C (76°F/89°F)

With nice weather conditions, November is a good time to go anywhere in Bangkok, like visiting the Grand Palace, local markets, and temples.

There is a big festival in November — Loy Krathong . There are lively celebrations in parks, temples, and on rivers all over Bangkok.

Bangkok in December — Coolest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 22°C/31°C (72°F/88°F)

December is the driest and coolest month of the year in Bangkok. It is also the most touristy month.

The end of December brings a festive atmosphere. There are celebrations on Christmas and New Year's Eve in Bangkok. Shopping malls in Thailand have big sales from late December to early January. If you're planning a trip to Thailand over the Christmas and New Year period, try to book as early as possible. Popular hotels are usually booked up 3-6 months in advance.

>>> Best Places to Spend Christmas in Thailand

Bangkok in January — Sunny

• Average low/high temperature: 22°C/32°C (72°F/89°F)

January is still cool with bright sunshine.

Temples in Bangkok, Maeklong Railway Market, floating markets, and historical parks around Bangkok are all good choices to visit.

>>> Best Local Markets in Bangkok

Bangkok in February — Still Nice Weather

• Average low/high temperature: 24°C/33°C (75°F/91°F)

Although the temperature has risen a bit in February, it is still a good time to visit Bangkok because of the lack of rain.

Bangkok's China Town is a good place to visit when it coincides with Chinese New Year.

Shoulder Season in Bangkok (March to June)

Temperatures in Bangkok begin to rise sharply from March, and rains arrive in May.

Although not as many as in the peak season, there are still many tourists for the Songkran Festival in April.

Bangkok in March — Heat Up

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/34°C (78°F/93°F)

Temperatures heat up in March, especially in late March. However, early March is still suitable for sightseeing. You still can expect more sun and less rain than at other times of the year.

Bangkok in April — Hottest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 27°C/35°C (80°F/95°F)

April is the hottest month of the year in Bangkok. It is also wetter than March.

Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) falls on April 13–15. Though April is not a peak season, the festival still attracts many travelers.

Visiting temples or arranging a morning/night outdoor tour, like a night cruise could avoid the heat as much as possible.

Bangkok in May — Rains Start

• Average low/high temperature: 27°C/34°C (80°F/94°F)

The rainy season in Bangkok begins in May. The combination of rain and heat inevitably creates a muggy feeling.

Relaxing by the pool or in an air-conditioned café can alleviate such feelings.

There are few tourists in Bangkok in May. It is a great time to visit Bangkok for favorable prices.

Bangkok in June — Hot and Wet

• Average low/high temperature: 27°C/33°C (80°F/92°F)

Bangkok in June is a little less muggy than May. Rainfall is moderate and passes quickly.

You could expect less-crowded attractions and shoulder season promotions.

Shopping in an air-conditioned shopping mall is a good choice in June. Bangkok's many shopping malls will have discounts in the middle of the year.

Low Season in Bangkok (July to October)

July to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Increasing rainfall makes July to October less touristy. Some travelers take advantage of the opportunity to gain a quiet experience with less costs, though.

Bangkok in July — Moderate Rain

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/33°C (79°F/91°F)

Traveling in July is not bad. The temperature in July drops a little. Rainfall is at moderate levels.

Rain showers usually come in the afternoon or at dusk. Just plan your trip around this knowledge. Don't worry too much about the impact of rain on your trip.

Bangkok in August — Rain Increases

Temperatures in August are the same as July's, but rainfall begins to increase at the end of August.

Taking a Thai cooking class, getting a Thai spa/massage, and watching a wonderful cultural performance (e.g. Muay Thai kick boxing) are all good activities for the rainy season.

Bangkok in September — Rainiest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/32°C (78°F/90°F)

In September, you would see heavy rain/thunderstorms very regularly. Monsoonal rainfall is at its peak in Bangkok.

It is probably the month to get the most favorable prices.

Bangkok in October — End of the Rainy Season

• Average low/high temperature: 25°C/32°C (78°F/89°F)

Finally, in October, Bangkok's rainy season comes to an end. In mid-October, the rainfall starts to decrease.

So, late October is actually quite a good time to visit Bangkok: there's less rainfall, and you could avoid the upcoming peak season, starting in November.

Popular Bangkok Tours

We can create an ideal Bangkok trip for you based on your group size, time, budget, interests, preferences, and other requirements. Contact us .

Or you may want to use one of our popular itineraries as a starting point:

• 12-Day Thailand Wonders Tour : Bangkok – Khao Yai – Chiang Mai - Krabi
• 10-Day Best of Thailand with Koh Samui : Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Koh Samui
• More Thailand tours

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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A first-timer's guide to exploring Bangkok: 5 handy tips

Updated : Apr 19, 2024, 21:20 IST

Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent place for culture vultures and party lovers, alike. If you are planning a your first Bangkok trip, here we are to help you make the most of your visit with five handy tips for first-timers exploring the city:

Master the art of Tuk-Tuk negotiation

Tuk-tuks, the iconic three-wheeled motorised rickshaws, are a quintessential mode of transportation in Bangkok. While they offer a convenient and thrilling way to navigate the city's bustling streets, it's essential to negotiate the fare before hopping aboard. Tuk-tuk drivers often quote inflated prices to unsuspecting tourists, so don't hesitate to haggle and settle on a reasonable fare before embarking on your journey.

Navigate the city's waterways

Bangkok's intricate network of canals, or khlongs, provides a unique perspective of the city's bustling neighborhoods and vibrant culture. Hop aboard a long-tail boat or take a leisurely ride on the public ferries to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions along the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Don't miss the chance to visit the bustling floating markets, where vendors sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and delectable street food from their boats.

Understand the street food culture

One of the best ways to experience the authentic flavors of Bangkok is through its street food. From savory pad Thai and aromatic tom yum soup to sweet mango sticky rice and crispy fried bananas, Bangkok's street vendors offer a plethora of tantalizing dishes at budget-friendly prices. Be adventurous and sample local delicacies from the numerous food stalls lining the streets, but remember to choose vendors with high turnover and freshly prepared food to avoid stomach issues.

Experience the nightlife

Bangkok comes alive after dark, offering a diverse array of nightlife experiences to suit every taste. From rooftop bars with panoramic city views and lively night markets buzzing with activity to vibrant street-side eateries and pulsating nightclubs, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the bustling nightlife districts of Sukhumvit, Silom, and Khao San Road, and immerse yourself in Bangkok's electrifying after-hours scene.

Visit the Grand Palace and temples

No visit to Bangkok is complete without exploring its magnificent temples and royal palaces. The Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, is a must-see attraction showcasing exquisite Thai architecture and intricate detailing. Nearby, Wat Pho houses the colossal Reclining Buddha, while Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. Remember to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting these sacred sites.

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Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent ...

Produced by Reuters Plus for

Published: January 18, 2024

Thailand’s iconic New Year’s bash signals a strong start for tourism in 2024

2024 was welcomed with a bang at ICONSIAM, Bangkok’s unmissable landmark destination nestled on the Chao Phraya River, signaling that tourism in Thailand is off to a great start this year.

Over 11 million people witnessed the countdown at ICONSIAM through various channels and feeds set up around the world. (1)

Bangkok was ranked as the top visited city in the world in 2023, (2) according to a survey by Travelness and this chart-topping is likely to persist in 2024 if the crowds at ICONSIAM’s New Year’s celebration are anything to go by.  

In fact, foreign visitors to Thailand increased by almost threefold to 22.2m from January to October 2023, compared to 7.1m for the same period in the previous year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. (3)

Thailand plans to generate some 3.5 trillion baht ($98.6 billion) in tourism revenue in 2024, with 2.5 trillion baht from international tourists and 1 trillion baht from Thai tourists. (4)

Within Southeast Asia, Bangkok saw the biggest year-on-year growth in international arrivals at 142% in 2023. (5)

It is no wonder that Bangkok and ICONSIAM have been featured in many Top Ten best global countdowns. But this year the hope is that it will be listed among the top five best countdowns in the world.

A whopping US$8.5 million was spent preparing for this extravaganza to ring in 2024. Festivities included over 2,000 drones and a record-breaking spectacle of 50,000 eco-friendly fireworks.

Directed by world-renowned pyrotechnic director Okujyo Yoshimasa, who won the 2023 Shinmei Fireworks Competition in Yamagata, Japan, the fireworks lasted over 10 minutes and lit up the night sky along 1.4 kilometers of the river.

“I saw on the internet that this was probably the biggest (fireworks display) in Thailand,” said Charat Chinwarataphat, sound designer. “That’s why I came here to see the fireworks — to enjoy with my family and friends.”

Being a part of Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024, ICONSIAM is a designated national countdown destination that maintains a uniquely Thai flavor which it brought to the celebrations.

What makes the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024 particularly noteworthy is the collaboration between both private and public sectors.

“The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024 is a broad-based collaboration between the public and private sectors,” says Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Kiatphaibool. “It’s a team effort to draw the attention of the world to one of the most exciting countdown events and also helps to generate long-term benefits for the economy.”

This year’s celebration is especially notable as it is the fifth anniversary of the opening of ICONSIAM.

ICONSIAM’s management has also set an ambitious goal to increase the number of Thai and foreign tourists to the Chao Phraya River area by more than 50% this year compared to 2019. (6)

The celebrations at ICONSIAM started the year on a high. Not only does it secure the lifestyle destination’s title as the nation’s top countdown hub. It also signals a promising year to come in terms of tourism-dollars for the whole country.

(1) https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thailands-iconic-countdown-destination-iconsiam-readies-for-2024-riverside-extravaganza--vying-to-be-among-the-worlds-five-greatest-countdowns-302015314.html (2) https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/tourism/40029935 (3) https://www.mots.go.th/mots_en (4) https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/tourism/40033872 (5) https://www.euromonitor.com/press/press-releases/dec-2023/euromonitor-internationals-report-reveals-worlds-top-100-city-destinations-for-2023 (6) https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2660654/iconsiams-grand-5th-anniversary-extravaganza-lights-up-bangkoks-riverfront

Disclaimer: The Reuters news staff had no role in the production of this content. It was created by Reuters Plus, the brand marketing studio of Reuters. To work with Reuters Plus, contact us here .

Premier urged to tackle overtourism

One proposal is to collect a tourist tax

PUBLISHED : 23 Apr 2024 at 06:30

NEWSPAPER SECTION: Business

WRITER: Molpasorn Shoowong

With opposition to overtourism arising in many countries, Thai tourism operators are urging the government to seriously consider the nation's carrying capacity, while some have suggested collecting a 300-baht tourism tax in a bid to solve the problem.

As Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has vowed to make 2025 a landmark year for tourism, Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of the Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (Fetta), said a white paper that the federation will present to the government will include solutions to prevent overtourism, which was seen in Thailand before the pandemic.

Similar efforts were observed in other countries last week as Amsterdam's local government announced it was banning the construction of new hotels, while residents of Spain's Canary Islands called for limiting tourism arrivals as they have been hit by rising housing costs.

"With a projection of 40 million tourists, major destinations like Phuket, Samui and Pattaya are on the verge of facing overtourism," said Mr Adith.

He said that during the high season, Phuket had already witnessed traffic congestion and water shortages, while its international airport ran out of available slots for airlines.

Mr Adith said one of the key strategies is to attract tourists from major hubs to the country's secondary cities that offer plenty of potential attractions and space to accommodate a significant flow of tourists.

There should be incentives for airlines who are keen to operate direct flights to provincial airports such as U-tapao, and those serving Khon Kaen and Krabi. This would alleviate congestion among gateways such as Phuket Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport, and would also help create regional business opportunities.

The related authorities should accelerate connectivity between airports to inner cities too. For instance, the lack of public bus access from U-tapao Airport to Pattaya City discourages new airlines from operating flights as the current situation is not convenient for passengers.

Surawat Akaraworamat, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said the government should reconsider collecting the 300-baht tourism fee to help fund tourism development as the plan and all related preparations have now been finalised.

He said the essential funds would benefit infrastructure development in second-tier provinces to attract tourists away from congested locations, and improve attractions that have deteriorated due to overtourism.

Mr Surawat said the 300-baht fee would help tourism authorities receive a larger budget. Every year the Tourism Department, which is responsible for the development of supply, receives a budget of only 700 million baht, which is insufficient to sustain necessary projects.

He said a tax of only 300 baht would not discourage foreign tourists from visiting Thailand as some parties have raised as a concern, since the fee is inexpensive compared to some nations such as Bhutan which collects a tourist tax of over US$100 per night.

Many countries today are collecting taxes from tourists, either through flight tickets or hotel stays. Thailand should start a trial phase of tourism tax collection through a mobile application or kiosks, he said.

• Overtourism

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Upcoming K-pop concerts, tours and music festivals in Asia: SEVENTEEN, aespa, NCT and more

Get all the info (venues, dates, ticket prices, and more) on 2024 tours by RIIZE, XG, IU and more

Borders are open, live music is back and the K-pop touring cycle is in full swing. Stars including SEVENTEEN, aespa and NCT Dream are touring the world with new tunes in tow – and hitting Asia very soon.

While some of those artists are staging their own headline shows, others are on the line-ups of music festivals with both multi-genre and Hallyu-only line-ups. The announcements have been coming thick and fast of late so NME ‘s decided to help with a handy list of K-pop concerts and music festivals in Asia for 2024.

Scroll down to see if your favourite K-pop artist is touring Asia and get info on cities, dates, venues, tickets and more.

‘The Dream Show 3’ World Tour – Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo, Nagoya, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Manila

May 2024 Thursday 2 to Saturday 4 – Seoul, South Korea, Gocheok Sky Dome Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 – Osaka, Japan, Kyocera Dome Saturday 18 – Jakarta, Indonesia, GBK Stadium Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo Dome

June 2024 Sunday 2 – Nagoya, Japan, Vantelin Dome Nagoya Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld Arena Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 – Bangkok, Thailand, Rajamangala National Stadium Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Singapore, Singapore, Indoor Stadium

Recommended

August 2024 Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 – Manila, The Philippines, SM Mall of Asia Arena

NCT Dream have announced a series of shows across Asia as part of their upcoming ‘The Dream Show 3’ world tour, which will officially begin in May with concerts in eight cities across the continent through to August. Specifics regarding venues and ticketing have yet to be announced; keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

2024 ‘RIIZING Day Fan-Con’ World Tour – Seoul, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Taipei, Manila, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta

May 2024 Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 – Seoul, South Korea, Jamsil Indoor Stadium Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 – Tokyo, Japan, Yoyogi National Stadium First Gymnasium

June 2024 Saturday 1 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 8 &10 Saturday 15 – Taipei, Taiwan, New Taipei City Exhibition Hall

July 2024 Sunday 14 – Manila, Philippines, Smart Aranetra Coliseum Saturday 20 – Singapore, Singapore, Expo Hall 7 Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 – Bangkok, Thailand, Thunder Dome

August 2024 Saturday 31 – Jakarta, Indonesia, ICE BSD City Hall 5

SM Entertainment rookie boyband RIIZE are set to embark on their first fan-con world tour this April with stops across Asia and the US. The group will make stops in cities such as Tokyo, Taipei, Singapore and more from April through to August, making it their first overseas headline shows since debut. More dates and stops are expected to be added soon, meanwhile ticketing information will be announced “at a later date”. Check this page for the latest updates.

‘Bunnies Camp 2024’ Fanmeet – Tokyo

June 2024 Wednesday 26 to Thursday 27 – Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo Dome

In a surprise announcement revealing plans to make a Japanese debut sometime this year, NewJeans also announced a two-day fan-meet to be held at the Tokyo Dome in the Japanese capital city this June. The five-piece also announced a world tour slated for 2025, however more details have yet to be disclosed. Information regarding ticketing and more for the Bunnies Camp concert in Tokyo have also yet to be announced. Keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

‘Show What I Have’ 2023-2024 world tour – Hong Kong and Manila

July 2024 Saturday 6 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Arena Saturday 13 – Manila, the Philippines, SM Mall of Asia Arena

Tickets are available via LiveNation .

Following their ‘Prom Queens’ Asia tour in 2023 and the release of their mini-album ‘I’VE MINE’, top rookie girl group IVE are setting off on their first-ever world tour. The sextet will be touring Asia from January to early March next year before heading to the US and Europe, before returning in July for shows in Hong Kong and Manila.

BABYMONSTER

#BABYMONSTER PRESENTS : SEE YOU THERE SCHEDULE #베이비몬스터 #BABYMONSTERPRESENTS #SEEYOUTHERE #SCHEDULE #YG pic.twitter.com/KAUhHzPmUr — BABYMONSTER (@YGBABYMONSTER_) April 17, 2024

2024 ‘See You There’ Fanmeet – Tokyo, Jakarta, Singapore, Taipei and Bangkok

May 2024 Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 – Tokyo, Japan

June 2024 Saturday 8 – Jakarta, Indonesia Saturday 15 – Singapore, Singapore Sunday 23 – Taipei, Taiwan Saturday 29 – Bangkok, Thailand

YG Entertainment rookies BABYMONSTER announced their first-ever overseas fanmeet tour on March 18, with a handful of stops in major cities around Asia. The seven-piece are scheduled to visit Tokyo, Jakarta, Singapore, Taipei and Bangkok sometime this year, however specifics regarding venues and ticketing information will be shared by the label at a later stage. Keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

2024 ‘Moonshot’ world tour – Seoul and Yokohama

July 2024 Saturday 20 to Sunday 21 – Seoul, South Korea Saturday 27 – Yokohama, Japan

ARTMS announced several dates in Asia and North America for their upcoming ‘Moonshot’ world tour, which will begin with two shows in Seoul and one in Yokohama, before the five-piece embark on the North American leg of the tour. Venues and ticketing information have yet to be announced. Keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

2024 ‘Zeneration II’ world tour – Seoul, Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, Macau, Kuala Lumpur

July 2024 Friday 12 to Sunday 14 – Seoul, South Korea

August 2024 Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 – Bangkok, Thailand Saturday 24 – Jakarta, Indonesia Sunday 25 – Manila, the Philippines Saturday 31 – Macau, China

September 2024 Saturday 7 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

THE BOYZ recently announced plans to go on an expansive world tour dubbed ‘Zeneration II’, which will take them to North America, Europe and Asia. So far, the band has announced six cities for the tour’s Asian leg, however more dates have yet to be revealed, per their initial announcement. More information such as ticketing, venues and more have yet to be announced – keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

NCT’s Ten

2024 ‘1001’ Asia Fan-con tour – Jakarta

April 2024 Saturday 27 – Jakarta, Indonesia, The Kasablanka Hall

Fans can look forward to hearing some of his previously released solo tracks like ‘Dream in a Dream’ and ‘Paint Me Naked’, as well as cuts from his upcoming record.

NCT’s Doyoung

‘Dear Youth,’ solo concert – Seoul

May 2024 Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Seoul, South Korea, Kyunghee University Grand Peace Palace

NCT vocalist Doyoung will be playing his first-ever solo headline show for two nights at Kyunghee University’s Grand Peace Palace this May. The concerts will be in support of his upcoming solo debut album ‘Youth’, due out April 22. Information on how to purchase tickets have yet to be announced by SM Entertainment.

‘Born to Be’ World Tour – Tokyo, Taipei, Manila and Hong Kong

May 2024 Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 – Tokyo, Japan, Yoyogi National Stadium First Gymnasium

July 2024 Saturday 20 – Taipei, Taiwan, Taipei Arena

August 2024 Saturday 03 – Manila, the Philippines, SM Mall of Asia Arena Saturday 10 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Arena

In support of their second studio album ‘Born to Be’, ITZY have announced a massive world tour in 2024. The girl group will kick off the tour this February in Seoul, before hitting several Asian cities throughout the year between their shows in Oceania, North America and Europe.

2024 ‘The First Howl’ world tour – Osaka, Yokohama, Bangkok, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, Taipei

May 2024 Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 – Osaka, Japan, Osaka-Jo Hall Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Yokohama, Japan, K-Arena Yokohama

TBA Bangkok, Thailand Seoul, South Korea Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Singapore, Singapore Manila, the Philippines Taipei, Taiwan

The South Korean-based Japanese girl group announced their highly anticipated first-ever world tour since debut, dubbed ‘The First Howl’ and slated to kick off with shows in Osaka and Yokohama this May. Details for the tour’s remaining Asian stops, which include cities such as Seoul, Singapore and Bangkok, remain scarce, with more specifics such as venues and dates to be announced at a later stage. Check this page for the latest updates.

‘SYNK: Parallel Line’ World Tour – Seoul, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Saitama, Osaka, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Jakarta, Macau, Bangkok

June 2024 Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Seoul, South Korea, Jamsil Indoor Stadium

July 2024 Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 – Fukuoka, Japan, Marine Messe Fukuoka Wednesday 10 to Thursday 11 – Aichi, Japan, Aichi Sky Expo Sunday 14 to Monday 15 – Saitama, Japan, Saitama Super Arena Saturday 20 – Singapore, Singapore Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 – Osaka, Japan, Asue Arena Osaka

August 2024 Saturday 3 – Hong Kong, China Saturday 10 – Taipei, Taiwan Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 – Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo Dome Saturday 24 – Jakarta, Indonesia

September 2024 Saturday 21 – Macau, China Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 – Bangkok, Thailand

The four-piece recently announced the Asian and Australian legs of their upcoming world tour dubbed ‘SYNK: Parallel Line’, slated to kick off in late June. The tour will bring them across 11 cities in Asia, including several in Japan and Southeast Asia. More information regarding venue and ticketing have yet to be announced by organisers – check this page for the latest updates.

‘A Sweet Experience: Bench Fun Meet’ – Manila

May 2024 Tuesday 28 – Manila, The Philippines, SM Mall of Asia Arena

As part of their partnership with fashion brand Bench, ENHYPEN will be having a fanmeeting event in Manila in late May. General admission tickets are acquired through purchases made at select Bench stores in the Philippines, and fans must keep their receipts in order to purchase tickets from SM Ticket outlets. Check this for more information.

‘SHINee World Ⅵ – Perfect Illumination : SHINee’S BACK’ encore concert – Seoul

May 2024 Friday 24 to Sunday 26 – Seoul, South Korea, Inspire Arena

SHINee recently announced a three-night residency at Seoul’s Inspire Arena for encore concerts for their recently concluded tour ‘SHINee World VI: Perfect Illumination’. The tour brought them on an expansive tour across Asia, beginning in June 2023 and concluding with a final show in Hong Kong in March. Ticketing details have yet to be announced.

SHINee’s Key

2024 ‘Keyland On: And On’ Asia tour – Bangkok, Jakarta, Macau, Kaohsiung

July 2024 Sunday 14 – Bangkok, Thailand, MCC Hall Saturday 20 – Jakarta, Indonesia, The Kasablanka Hall Sunday 28 – Macau, China, Macau Broadway Theatre

August 2024 Saturday 17 – Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Kaohsiung Music Center

The SHINee soloist has announced a four-stop tour of Asia planned for the coming year, with a show in Bangkok to kick off the brief tour in mid July, until the tour officially concludes in the Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung in mid-August. Ticketing information for existing stops have yet to be announced, while it currently remains unclear if Key has any plans to expand the tour to various other cities.

2024 ‘HEREH’ world tour – Jakarta, Hong Kong, Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Osaka and Seoul

April 2024 Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 – Jakarta, Indonesia, ICE BSD Hall 5-6

May 2024 Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Arena

June 2024 Saturday 1 – Manila, the Philippines, Philippine Arena Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Axiata Arena Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Bangkok, Thailand, Impact Challenger Hall 1

July 2024 Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 – Osaka, Japan, Asue Arena Osaka

September 2024 Saturday 21 to Sunday 22 – Seoul, South Korea, Seoul World Cup Stadium (encore concerts)

Ahead of her next album, IU has finally announced her massive, first-ever world tour. The singer will kick off the tour with two weekends of shows in Seoul, before heading to Yokohama, Taipei, Singapore, Jakarta and Hong Kong in the following months, playing two shows at each stop.

Between shows in Europe and the US, she will also head to Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Osaka. She will then be returning to Seoul for two nights of encore concerts in order to wrap the tour up.

2023-2024 ‘Follow Again’ encore tour – Osaka and Yokohama

May 2024 Thursday 18 to Friday 19 – Osaka, Japan, Yanmar Stadium Nagai Thursday 25 to Friday 26 – Yokohama, Japan, Nissan Stadium

Shortly after concluding their tour’s original 20 dates with concerts in the Philippines and Macau this month, boy band SEVENTEEN have announced an encore leg of their ‘Follow’ tour in Incheon, Osaka and Yokohama as a “token of gratitude” towards their fans. Look forward to performances of their hits like ‘Super’, ‘Very Nice’ and more.

EXO’s Suho

2024 ‘Welcome to SU:HOME’ Asia tour – Seoul, Manila, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur

May 2024 Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Seoul, South Korea, Olympic Hall

June 2024 Saturday 22 – Manila, the Philippines, Araneta Coliseum

July 2024 Saturday 6 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 10 Saturday 13 – Taipei, Taiwan, Taipei Music Center Saturday 20 – Bangkok, Thailand, Royal Paragon Hall Sunday 28 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Mega Star Arena

The EXO leader recently announced a two-night residency at Seoul’s Olympic Hall for an upcoming solo concert dubbed ‘Welcome to SU:HOME’ in May. He’ll then go on to tour select cities across Asia from June to July, with stops in Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Manila and Kuala Lumpur so far.

EXO’s D.O

2024 ‘Bloom’ Asian Fan Concert Tour – Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Bangkok, Malaysia, Manila, Singapore

June 2024 Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 – Seoul, South Korea, KBS Arena Saturday 22 – Taipei, Taiwan, Tianmu Gymnasium Saturday 29 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 10

July 2024 Friday 12 – Jakarta, Indonesia, Kasablanka Hall Thursday 18 – Tokyo, Japan, Tachikawa Stage Garden Friday 19 – Nagoya, Japan, Niterra Hall Sunday 21 – Osaka, Japan, Grand Cube Osaka

August 2024 Saturday 10 – Bangkok, Thailand Saturday 17 – Malaysia Saturday 31 – Manila, the Philippines

September 2024 Saturday 28 – Singapore, Singapore

The EXO vocalist will be embarking on a tour of Asia this coming year, with two kick-off shows in Seoul, South Korea in early June before he’s set to visit cities in Japan, China, Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Other information such as venues and how to purchase tickets have yet to be announced; check this page for the latest updates.

EXO’s Baekhyun

2024 ‘Lonsdaleite’ Asia tour – Fukuoka, Taipei, Kobe, Sendai, Jakarta, Hong Kong and Bangkok

April 2024 Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 – Fukuoka, Japan, Fukuoka Convention Centre

May 2024 Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 – Taipei, Taiwan, NTSU Arena Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 – Kobe, Japan, Kobe World Memorial Hall Thursday 16 to Friday 17 – Sendai, Japan, Miyagi Sports Park General Gymnasium

June 2024 Saturday 1 to Sunday 2 – Jakarta, Indonesia, Istora Senayan Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Summit Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 – Bangkok, Thailand, Impact Exhibition Hall 7-8 Muang Thong Thani

EXO vocalist Baekhyun has announced a huge solo world tour, complete with a massive Asian leg. The singer kicked off the ‘Lonsdaleite’ tour in Seoul in March, before heading to the rest of East and Southeast Asia in the following months. Fans can look forward to hearing his solo hits like ‘Candy’ and ‘Bambi’ live.

MONSTA X’s I.M

2024 ‘Off The Beat’ world tour – Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo, Bangkok and Macau

May 2024 Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Seoul, South Korea

September 2024 Thursday 19 – Taipei, Taiwan Sunday 22 – Tokyo, Japan Tuesday 24 – Bangkok, Thailand Sunday 29 – Macau, China

Earlier this week, MONSTA X rapper I.M announced his 2024 ‘Off The Beat’ world tour in support of his recently released mini-album of the same name. The expansive solo tour will kick off with a two-night residency in Seoul, before he embarks on the Europe and North American legs of the tour in July and August. The idol will then visit four cities in Asia before wrapping up the tour in September. View the full list of tour dates here .

MBC Music Core in Japan

‘MBC Music Core in Japan’ 2024 – Tokorozawa

Day One Line-Up: ENHYPEN Fantasy Boys ILLIT NiziU NMIXX P1Harmony RIIZE SHINee’s Taemin

Day Two Line-Up: &TEAM ATEEZ (G)I-DLE ILLIT NCT WISH NMIXX n.SSign PLAVE Stray Kids

June 2024 Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Tokorozawa, Japan, Belluna Dome

MBC Music Core is set to take place as a one-off event in the city of Tokorozawa this year, set to take place at the Belluna Dome. While the full line-up has yet to be announced, some acts set to take the Belluna Dome stage this June include Stray Kids, NMIXX, ILLIT, ENHYPEN and more.

Seoul Jazz Festival

The 16th Seoul Jazz Festival – Seoul

Day One Line-Up: Lauv Day6 Jungle Tones And I Joshua Redmann Group (featuring Gabrielle Cavassa) Hiromi’s Sonicwonder Mac Ayres SG Lewis Jessie Reyez Elijah Woods Alaina Castillo Sunwoo Junga (with From Beyond) Paul Kim Lee Young-ji Kohsangji Band Lim Kim Danny Koo X Yooseung Cho Trio So Soo-bin Jason Lee Kik5o

Day Two Line-Up: Melody Gardot FKJ Bruno Major JANNABI Gayle JP Saxe Car, the Garden MeloMance Cho Min-gyu BIBI Stella Jang Yunseokcheol Trio Wonstein Anna of the North Wave to Earth Golden Swing Bang (featuring Song Ha-chul) Yujinkim Extraordinary Jimindorothy

Day Three Line-Up: Lauv (with special guests) Gipsy Kings (featuring Nicolas Reyes) John Scofield Trio Lianne La Havas Jeremy Zucker Tom Grennan Cory Wong Jang Ki-ha Zion.T Kwon Jin-ah Alexander23 Ha Hyun-sang Etham Cautious Clay Lee Jin-ah Jeong Dong-hwan (and the Funk Messengers) HongJinho Quintet The Ska Jazz Unit

May to June 2024 Friday 31 to Sunday 2 – Seoul, South Korea, Olympic Park

The Seoul Jazz Festival will be returning for its 16th run this year for three nights from May 31 to June 2, boasting a varied roster of artists from local indie acts such as Car, The Garden and Kwon Jin-ah to renowned South Korean artists such as Day6, BIBI, Zion.T, Lee Young-ji and more. The festival will also be bringing in acclaimed indie talents from abroad, including the likes of Bruno Major, Mac Ayres, Lauv and more.

KCON Japan 2024

Line-Up for ‘KCON Japan 2024’: 8TURN AIMERS B.D.U BOYNEXTDOOR ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo DXMON DXTEEN eite E’LAST EL7Z UP EPEX Hi-Fi Un!con ILLIT INI IS:SUE JO1 CNBLUE’s Jong Yong-hwa Kep1er SHINee’s Key LIMELIGHT LUN8 ME:I Isaac Hong NCT WISH NiziU NOWADAYS n.SSign P1Harmony Red Velvet Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon TEMPEST THE NEW SIX TIOT TRENDZ TWS VANNER VVUP WAKER WHIB woo!ah! xikers Choi Yena YOUNITE ZEROBASEONE &TEAM

May 2024 Friday 10 to Sunday 12 – Chiba, Japan, ZOZO Marine Stadium and Makuhari Messe

Over the past weekend, KCON finally announced its long-awaited performing line-up for this year’s iteration in Japan, slated to be held in the city of Chiba this May. K-pop acts confirmed to be performing at the festival include top artists such as Red Velvet, ZEROBASEONE and more. Keep tabs on this page for the latest information about KCON Japan 2024 and how to purchase tickets.

2024 Weverse Con Festival

Line-Up for 2024 ‘Weverse Con Festival’: 10cm Billlie BOYNEXTDOOR Chuu ENHYPEN fromis_9 ILLIT imase JD1 JUST B Kim Jae-joong J. Y. Park (with special guests) Kwon Eun-bi Lee Sung-kyoung LE SSERAFIM PLAVE SEVENTEEN THE NEW SIX Tomorrow X Together TWS XIA YOASOBI &TEAM

June 2024 Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 – Incheon, South Korea, Inspire Entertainment Resort and Inspire Arena Discovery Park

This year’s iteration of the annual Weverse Con Festival will take place this June in Incheon, South Korea, with acts such as LOONA’s Chuu, TWS and more set to take the stage. While more information about pre-sale and general ticketing have yet to be announced, check this page for early bird day pass sales and the latest updates for the upcoming festival.

MAMAMOO’s Hwasa

2024 ‘Twits’ solo fancon tour – Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore

May 2024 Saturday 11 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 10

June 2024 Saturday 16 – Taipei, Taiwan, Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 1 Saturday 22 – Singapore, Singapore, The Star Theatre

MAMAMOO powerhouse vocalist Hwasa is set to embark on a short tour of Asia for the ‘Twits’ solo fancon tour, with shows scheduled in three cities so far: Hong Kong, Taipei and Singapore for May and June. More dates and stops are teased to be announced at a later stage, while venue, time and ticketing information for the existing stops are set to be revealed in the coming weeks. Keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

MAMAMOO’s Wheein

2024 ‘Whee In The Mood’ world tour – Tokyo

May 2024 Wednesday 1 – Tokyo, Japan, Zepp DiverCity

MAMAMOO singer Wheein has finally announced her first-ever solo world tour, named after her 2023 studio album ‘In The Mood’. The singer will kick off the tour with a two-night concert in Seoul this February, before heading to Hong Kong, Bangkok, Manila and more.

Jung Eun-ji

2024 ‘Eunji’s Bookstore’ Fanmeeting – Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong

May 2024 Saturday 25 – Seoul, South Korea, Ewha Women’s University Samsung Hall

June 2024 Saturday 15 – Taipei, Taiwan, NTU Sports Center 1F Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Hong Kong, China, Macpherson Stadium

Jung Eun-ji of Apink has announced a brief Asia tour for her upcoming fanmeeting event, called ‘Eunji’s Bookstore’. The tour will kick off with two showings on May 25 in Seoul, before she’s due to host the fanmeeting in Taipei and Hong Kong in June.

2024 ‘P1ustage H : UTOP1A’ world tour – Seoul

April 2024 Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 – Seoul, South Korea, Olympic Hall

K-pop boyband P1Harmony announced their upcoming P1ustage H : UTOP1A world tour, which will kick off with shows in Seoul, before they embark on the North American leg of the tour. Ticketing information for the kick-off concert in Seoul are also to be announced – check this page for the latest updates.

2024 ‘HIGHLIGHT LIVE: Lights Go On, Again’ Asia tour – Seoul, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kaohsiung, Tokyo

May 2024 Friday 10 to Sunday 12 – Seoul, South Korea, KSPO Dome

June 2024 Saturday 22 – Hong Kong, China Sunday 30 – Bangkok, Thailand

July 2024 Saturday 6 – Kaohsiung, Taiwan Friday 19 to Sunday 20 – Tokyo, Japan

Boyband HIGHLIGHT are set to embark on their first headline tour of Asia in about two years this summer, after hosting a three-night residency at Seoul’s KSPO Dome in May. The tour currently consists of only four stops so far, beginning with a performance in Hong Kong this June.

The band will also notably be able to perform past BEAST songs after successful negotiations with CUBE Entertainment over the rights to their previous group name and discography. Further details such as venues and ticketing information have yet to be announced.

iKON’s DK

‘DK Asia Fan Event Tour’ – Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta

April 2024 Sunday 21 – Bangkok, Thailand, Dongki Mall Thonglor Saturday 27 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Lalaport BBCC Sunday 28 – Jakarta, Indonesia, Sasono Langen Budoyo

iKON vocalist DK will be heading on a four-stop tour of Asia later this month for a ‘fan event tour’ . The news comes fresh off the conclusion of iKON’s limited tour of Asia, which concluded with a final show in Bangkok on April 7. Further details such as venue and ticketing have yet to be shared by the band’s label.

‘2024 Hype Up’ Tour – Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Manila, Jakarta, Macau

May 2024 Friday 24 – Hong Kong, China, Star Hall

June 2024 Saturday 1 – Bangkok, Thailand, Thunderdome Friday 7 – Singapore, Singapore, Capitol Theatre Sunday 9 – Manila, the Philippines, SM North EDSA Skydome Saturday 15 – Jakarta, Indonesia, The Kasablanka Hall

July 2024 Saturday 13 – Macau, China, Broadway Macau

The K-pop soloist has announced the first six shows of his newly announced 2024 ‘Hype Up tour’, which will take him to cities across Asia such as Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong and more. According to the announcement, more stops and dates will be announced at a later stage, while ticketing information for existing stops has yet to be disclosed.

EVNNE 2024 ‘SQUAD:R’ Asia fan-concert tour – Osaka and Yokohama

May 2024 Thursday 2 to Friday 3 – Osaka, Japan, Festival Hall Monday 6 – Yokohama, Japan, Pia Arena MM

Rookie boy band EVNNE have announced their first-ever concert tour, which kicks off in Seoul this March. The boy band will then head to Singapore, Taipei and Bangkok, as well as Japan in the following months.

Super Junior’s Kyuhyun

2024 ‘Restart’ Asia tour – Yokohama, Taipei, Bangkok and Jakarta

April 2024 Friday 26 – Yokohama, Japan, Pacifico Yokohama National Grand Hall

May 2024 Saturday 4 – Taipei, Taiwan, New Taipei City Exhibition Hall Saturday 11 – Bangkok, Thailand, MCC Hall The Mall Lifestore Bangkapi Saturday 18 – Jakarta, Indonesia, Tennis Indoor Senayan

Super Junior vocalist Kyuhyun has announced his brand-new ‘Restart’ Asia tour, which will kick off this March in South Korea. The singer will then head on to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and Southeast Asia.

2024 ‘CNBLUENTITY’ Asia tour – Singapore

April 2024 Saturday 27 – Singapore, Singapore, Indoor Stadium

South Korean band CNBLUE has announced their new ‘CNBLUENTITY’ Asia tour, beginning this March. The beloved pop-rock band will head to Hong Kong first, before performing in Bangkok, Kaohsiung, Macau and more.

2024 ‘Reboot’ Asia tour – Manila, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta

May 2024 Saturday 4 – Manila, The Philippines, SM Mall of Asia Arena Saturday 18 – Hong Kong, China, AsiaWorld-Arena Friday 24 to Sunday 26 – Bangkok, Thailand, Impact Arena

June 2024 Saturday 22 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Axiata Arena Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 – Jakarta, Indonesia, Arena GBK Senayan

Presented by YG Entertainment and promoted by Live Nation, TREASURE are set to embark on the ‘Reboot’ tour of Asia, which will bring them to cities such as Manila, Hong Kong and more in May and June this year. This tour comes after their 2023 ‘Hello’ tour, which saw them perform shows in Taipei and Singapore, among other cities. Information about how to purchase tickets have yet to be announced; keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

Super Junior

2024 ‘Super Show Spin-off: Halftime’ Asia tour – Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Hong Kong and Jakarta

June 2024 Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 – Seoul, South Korea, KSPO Dome

July 2024 Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 – Bangkok, Thailand, Impact Challenger Hall 1 Sunday 14 – Singapore, Singapore, Indoor Stadium Sunday 28 – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Phu Tho Indoor Sports Stadium

August 2024 Saturday 3 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Axiata Arena Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 – Taipei, Taiwan, Taipei Arena

September 2024 Friday 6 to Saturday 7 – Hong Kong, China, AWE Arena Saturday 14 – Jakarta, Indonesia, BCIS

2024 is looking to be a busy year for Super Junior, with the full group announcing their new ‘Super Show Spin-off: Halftime’ tour in addition to tours by subunit L.S.S and member Kyuhyun. Ticketing information for all stops have yet to be announced.

2024 ‘dOpamine’ world tour – Southeast Asia and Oceania

July 2024 Hong Kong Indonesia Malaysia The Philippines Thailand Vietnam

Korean boyband OnlyOneOf have announced six Asian countries as well as Australia as stops for their upcoming ‘dOpamine’ world tour, slated to run throughout July. However, dates, cities, venues and ticketing information have yet to be announced by the band.

2024 ‘The Flag: A to V’ tour – Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo, Hong Kong

April 2024 Friday 26 to Sunday 28 – Seoul, South Korea, Yes24 Live Hall

May 2024 Friday 10 – Taipei, Taiwan Saturday 25 to Sunday 26 – Tokyo, Japan

July 2024 Monday 1 – Hong Kong, China

The K-pop boyband have announced a brief tour of Asia with shows in four cities so far announced, billed as the last live shows from VANNER before member Sungkook before he enlists for mandatory military service on May 7. The rest of VANNER will proceed with the scheduled overseas shows without Sungkook, however venue and ticketing information have yet to be announced. Meanwhile, tickets to the Seoul dates are on sale now from  the official Yes24 website .

2024 ‘Fiat Lux: 熙’ Asian Fancon Tour – Jakarta, Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong

May 2024 Saturday, 11 – Jakarta, Indonesia

June 2024 Sunday, 2 – Taipei, Taiwan Saturday, 15 – Manila, the Philippines

TBA Hong Kong, China

Former NCT member Lucas Wong has announced his first-ever overseas tour as a soloist, fresh off the announcement of his solo debut with ‘Renegade’. The first batch of stops announced so far have yet to have their venues and ticketing information shared. Originally slated for April 13, Lucas’ Hong Kong show has been indefinitely postponed “after careful discussion”, with a new date still unannounced. Keep tabs on this page for the latest updates.

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