Bangkok or commonly referred to as ‘Krung Thep’ (City of Angels) by the locals, is the capital of Thailand. Considered as the most developed city in Thailand, this place was able to maintain its traditions and historical architecture. Bangkok is a colorful place for any nomad and tourist and if you are planning to visit Bangkok in the near future, here are the 8 best things to do in Bangkok so you can explore a different side of this city.
1. Experience Buying from the Floating Markets
The floating markets of Bangkok are among its unique tourist attractions. A way of living for the locals, this view never failed to amaze its guests. There are three popular floating markets in Bangkok namely Damnoen Saduak, Klong Lat Mayom, and Amphawa. To make your experience more personal, hop on to one of their guided boats and experience the floating market of Bangkok.
2. Take A Selfie at The Grand Palace
Want to change your old Facebook profile picture? Time to take a selfie with the Grand Palace in your background. The Grand Palace was built in 1782. It is currently hailed as one of the most popular sights in Bangkok and is revered for its architectural design. Inside the Grand Palace is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha where you can find the 14th century Emerald Buddha sitting in his spot.
3. Go for a River Cruise
A Bangkok tour is not complete if you haven’t tried river cruising. One of the popular rivers in the city is the Chao Phraya River but if you want to see a different side of Bangkok, try to cruise the smaller channels or canals such as the Pandan Canal Tour.
For this tour, you will get to see traditional Thai houses, some temples, flower markets, and an orchid nursery.
4. Appreciate Wat Arun Temple
Wat Arun Temple is on the opposite side of the Grand Palace and it is best known for its architectural design. Unlike a traditional temple in Bangkok, the architectural design of Wat Arun is very modern with its top to bottom colorful glass pieces. If you want a good sight of Bangkok skyline at night, you can climb the 70-meter high spire of this Wat Arun. Wat Arun is best viewed at night as it lightens up the Chao Phraya River with its golden beam.
5. Experience Lumpini Park with a Paddleboat
Within the busy streets of Bangkok is a 142-acre park with an artificial lake in its center. A playground and a picnic area, you can enjoy Lumpini Park while paddling idly in its artificial lake. For paddle boats, you can choose between ducks and swan designed boats or you can take rowing boat. For 40 baht an hour, this is a good way to enjoy an idle afternoon.
While paddling, test how brave you are once you see some baby crocodiles in the swan. They are harmless though.
6. Experience a Night Life via Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy, also known as the red district of Bangkok is a place to spend the night if you are looking for a place for a drink. The first bar in Soi Cowboy was opened by an American and since then, it became the place where friends, locals, and tourists have good night time.
7. Visit Bang Krachao Gardens
In the bustling city of Bangkok, you will be surprised to find a jungle where you can enjoy nature. Bike or trek around Bang Krachao Gardens, the ‘lungs of Bangkok.’ This jungle-like garden is full of tropical trees, so you can enjoy a cool and quiet afternoon in this garden.
8. Cap Off Your Tour on the Stunning Rooftop Bar
The best way to fall in love with a city and create the lasting memory is by dining on one of the city’s finest rooftops. Finding some chic restaurants crowning towering skyscrapers in this city is easy to do. Cielo Sky Bar & Restaurant, for example, is the highest rooftop dining venue on Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok CBD. This is where you will have a good time while enjoying the Bangkok skyline on the 46th floor with the 360-degree rotating viewpoint.
There are other things that you can do in this city but for us, these are the best things to do in Bangkok.
How to Travel in Bangkok?
For foreigners from other countries, the best way to travel in Bangkok is via train, buses, and tuk-tuks. They have to train systems, the skyway and the MRT (underground railway system). For other areas such as the floating markets, riding a boat is also a mean of transportation.
To get the most of your trip to Bangkok Thailand, make sure to read some blogs and reviews about each destination first before adding them on your itinerary. With the help of the internet, you can find practical and easy ways in planning a trip to Bangkok.