Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
Wilfried Strang, Pexels
Bangkok is a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern vibrancy, consistently ranking among the world's most visited cities. Visitors are drawn to its rich cultural heritage, bustling street life, and world-renowned culinary scene.
For those seeking to connect with other travelers, particularly backpackers, Khao San Road is a central and energetic hub. This area is densely packed with budget accommodations, bars, and street food stalls, creating a lively atmosphere for socializing and experiencing the city's nightlife. Beyond Khao San Road, areas like Sukhumvit and Silom also offer diverse social environments with a range of restaurants, bars, and clubs that appeal to a broader mix of tourists and expats.
Top 7 Things to do in Bangkok
Bangkok offers a captivating blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, culinary delights, and vibrant urban experiences.
1. Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo
Stepping into the Grand Palace complex, one encounters a stunning collection of ornate buildings that once served as the royal residence. Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaeo, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, housing Thailand's most revered Buddha image. This visit offers a deep dive into the nation's rich history and architectural grandeur. Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.
Cost: The entrance fee is 500 Thai Baht (THB) per person.
Transport: To reach the Grand Palace, one can take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station, then transfer to a Chao Phraya Express Boat bound for Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier or Tha Maharaj Pier. Alternatively, a metered taxi or a Grab ride from central Bangkok typically costs up to 200 THB.
2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Adjacent to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is home to the majestic 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha, an impressive golden statue that fills the temple hall. Beyond the main attraction, the temple grounds are expansive, offering many more statues and stupas to explore. It is also renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, with a well-regarded massage school on site where visitors can experience an authentic Thai massage.
Cost: The entrance fee is 300 THB per person. A 30-minute traditional Thai massage costs approximately 260 THB, while a 60-minute session is around 420 THB.
Transport: Wat Pho is a short walk from the Grand Palace. The closest MRT station is Sanam Chai, about a 5-minute walk away. A taxi or Grab from central areas might cost around 60-104 THB.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is distinguished by its intricate, porcelain-decorated prangs (towers) that gleam in the sunlight. While impressive during the day, it is particularly enchanting at sunrise or sunset when the light reflects beautifully off its surfaces. Climbing the central prang offers panoramic views of the river and the city.
Cost: A foreigner entrance fee to the main temple tower is 100 THB.
Transport: Accessing Wat Arun typically involves a short ferry ride (around 5 THB) from Tha Thien Pier on the opposite side of the Chao Phraya River, which is easily reachable by Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag, 16 THB) from Saphan Taksin BTS station. A taxi or Grab can take you directly to Tha Thien Pier, costing roughly 75-95 THB from central areas.
4. Chao Phraya River Boat Trip
Cruising along the Chao Phraya River offers a unique perspective of Bangkok, showcasing a mix of ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and local life along the waterways. Various boat services allow for sightseeing and convenient transport between riverside attractions. It provides a refreshing break from the city's bustling streets.
Cost: For local travel, the Orange Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat costs a flat rate of 16 THB per ride. For a more tourist-focused experience, the Blue Flag Tourist Boat costs 60 THB for a single journey or 200 THB for an unlimited day pass.
Transport: Piers are dotted along the river, many connecting to the BTS Skytrain (e.g., Saphan Taksin Station). Taxis and Grabs can also take you directly to most piers.
5. Street Food Exploration
Bangkok's street food scene is legendary, offering an incredible variety of affordable and flavorful dishes at every turn. From savory noodles and aromatic curries to fresh seafood and sweet desserts, sampling street food is an essential part of the Bangkok experience, providing a true taste of local life and culinary artistry.
Cost: Individual street food dishes are very inexpensive, often costing just a few dollars. Organized street food tours typically range from 32 to 60 USD, offering curated tastings and insights into local cuisine.
Transport: Street food stalls are ubiquitous throughout Bangkok. Popular hubs include Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) and various night markets. These areas are easily accessible by MRT, BTS, taxi, or Grab.
6. Chatuchak Weekend Market
As one of the world's largest weekend markets, Chatuchak is an overwhelming yet thrilling experience. Spread across 35 acres with thousands of stalls, it sells almost everything imaginable, from clothing, accessories, and handicrafts to home decor, antiques, and a vast array of delicious street food. Navigating the vibrant alleys is an adventure in itself, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and experiencing local commerce.
Cost: Entry to the market is free; costs vary based on purchases. Public transport costs are minimal.
Transport: The market is best reached by public transport due to heavy weekend traffic. Take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station (Exit 1) or the MRT Subway to Chatuchak Park Station (Exit 1) or Kamphaeng Phet Station. Taxis and Tuk-Tuks are also an option.
7. Rooftop Bar Experience
As evening descends, Bangkok's skyline transforms, and its numerous rooftop bars come alive. These elevated venues offer stunning panoramic views of the sprawling city below, providing a sophisticated setting for enjoying cocktails and unwinding. Each bar has its own unique ambiance, ranging from chic and luxurious to vibrant and energetic.
Cost: Drink prices at rooftop bars are typically higher than standard bars, reflecting the premium experience and views.
Transport: Many prominent rooftop bars are located atop luxury hotels in central districts like Sukhumvit, Silom, and Sathorn. They are conveniently accessed via BTS Skytrain, MRT, or taxi/Grab.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
