In this guide, you will find the top things to do and see in Bangkok. What are the top attractions in Bangkok? Let´s have a look!

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a pulsating city with about 5.7 million inhabitants. One could describe it as the gate to Southeast Asia. It is a hot, hectic, and overwhelming city. Just go with the flow and let the impressions take effect on you.

Wat Arun – Temple Of The Dawn

Wat Arun is one of the most famous temples in Bangkok and can be found right on the Chao Phraya River. With a height of 80 meters, you have the perfect view over the river as well as The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo.

But not only the view is what makes Wat Arun so special. Millions of mosaic pieces embellish the temple and represent Buddha’s Path of Life from Birth to Death.

The temple is named after the Hindu deity Aruna, the god of dawn. While the temple is beautiful to visit during the morning sun, some say it is even prettier during the night. Lit up by hundreds of lights makes it looks like the temple is glowing gold.

Wat Traimit / Golden Buddha

At the gates to Chinatown lies Wat Traimit which is home to what is probably Thailand’s most curious statue. While the 5.5 – tonne statue itself is impressive, the story behind it is what makes Wat Traimit so famous.

For countless years, no one had any idea that behind the inconspicuous plaster of the Buddha statue hid pure gold!

In 1954 it was decided to give the statue an appropriate “house” and work began on a Viharn. It is said that now “fate” struck: in May 1955, the statue was to be lifted to its new place, but the ropes broke and with the hard impact on the ground, a piece of the plaster is said to have chipped off, revealing its golden interior.

Khao San Road

Khaosan Road is a street about 400 meters long in the Bang Lam Phu district. It is located about one kilometer northeast of the Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo and is definitely one of the must-sees in Bangkok. The crowd is broadly mixed and seemingly every nationality is represented here.

While in the past the “standard” was aimed at the low-budget tourists, now you can also find hotels with a good medium standard.

Shopping on Khao San Road is a real experience. Many great restaurants, cookshops, massage and beauty stores, and shopping stalls attract a lot of tourists. Especially in the evening and at night great by the many cocktail offers. In addition, the most diverse musicians and bands play here everywhere.

The Grand Palace of Thailand

Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of the grandeur architectural style. The Grand Palace was the official residence of the Kings of Siam in Bangkok from the end of the 18th century to the middle of the 20th century and is located in the heart of Bangkok.

The Great Palace is strongly based on its predecessor, the old royal palace in Ayutthaya, which was destroyed down to the foundation walls by the Burmese. And so it is divided into four parts:

• The Outer Courtyard
• The Central Courtyard
• The Inner Courtyard and
• Wat Phra Kaeo, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

When visiting, one should pay particular attention to the dress code. Shorts, skirts or off-the-shoulder tops are not allowed. However, in case of need, you can borrow/buy a sarong in front of the entrance.

Wat Saket / The Golden Mount

In the east of the historic city center in the district of Pom Prap Sattru Phai, stands Wat Saket one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the city.

The Temple of the Golden Mountain or Golden Mount, as Wat Saket is also called, is one of the “Royal Temples 2nd Class”. These were built either by the children of the king or a nobleman who was given a royal title.

Wat Saket stands on a 79-meter-high, artificially raised mountain. 334 steps lead to the temple and the golden Chedi. From the top, you have a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of Bangkok.

Chinatown

Bangkok Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in the world. It is also, quite arguably, one of the best Chinatowns to visit as well. Visitors are fascinated by the hustle and bustle, the colorful lights and bright colors, the pretty Chinese temples, and the vast array of street food.

On a tour through the Chinese quarter of Bangkok, you will get to know the Thai capital from a completely different side. Here you can expect many interesting, partly curious and some of the most beautiful sights in Bangkok but also great markets and extraordinary food.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you’re a fan of shopping and planning a trip to Bangkok, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is an absolute must-visit destination. With an impressive 1.1 square kilometer area, it boasts the title of the world’s largest weekend market, offering a seemingly endless array of goods and souvenirs.

This comprehensive guide to the Chatuchak Weekend Market has everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from insider tips and tricks to a detailed map of the market layout. Whether you’re searching for unique handicrafts, designer fashion, or just looking for a taste of local culture, this market has something for everyone. So add it to your itinerary and get ready for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in the heart of Bangkok!

Wat Pho

Wat Pho is located next to the Grand Palace and is known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the largest reclining Buddha figure in the nation. It is an impressive 46 meters long and 15 meters high and decorated with mother of pearl and gold.

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is also home to the renowned Thai massage school for monks. Visitors can take advantage of this exceptional service on the premises.

Doing a River Cruise

An important means of transport in Bangkok are the boats that operate during the day on the Chao Phraya. With them, you can reach many sights. However, longer river trips are also offered, which leave the city a little and show the life of fishermen and farmers.

Hidden Gem – Bang Nam Pheung Market

Bang Nam Pheung Market is one of the most authentic marketplaces near Bangkok. It is mainly visited by locals and offers the opportunity to discover and taste local food, sweets, and unusual fruits. The general atmosphere is relaxed and pleasant. People are very friendly, especially if you want to try interesting dishes in the market. Find low tables are set up under a long thatched roof along the riverbank.

Wrapping up

I hope you enjoyed my list of attractions that you have to see in Bangkok! Bangkok is a huge city and can be easily overwhelming. I hope this guide helps you explore Bangkok a little more stress-free. I would love for you to check out some of the other posts on my blog! Maybe you can find even more inspiration!

This article may contain affiliate links.  I receive a small commission when you purchase products or services through these links at absolutely no extra cost to you. This is a free way to support me and allow me to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides. See my disclosure notice for more information.