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Top 10+ places to visit in Bangkok

The Top places to visit in Bangkok

Your Ultimate Guide to Bangkok’s top places to visit - Temples, Markets, Museums, Parks, Shopping, and more

By Travel Guide Spot 🌏

Published: March 15, 2025 - Last updated: April 14, 2025

Bangkok is a city that really knows how to impress. With some of South East Asias finest attractions and an array of activities, It’s bursting with a lively mix of culture, history, as well as modern fun. You can take a relaxing boat ride on the Chao Phraya River at sunset, grab a drink at a rooftop bar with fantastic city views, or treat yourself to an original Thai massage. Foodies can explore the amazing street food scene or even take cooking classes. If history and scenic adventures is your thing, there are beautiful temples, grand palaces, and fascinating museums to see. For those into art or shopping, the plethora of markets and night bazaars are lively and full of surprises. Whether you want to relax and escape in a park or find hidden gems, it will be very difficult to get bored in Bangkok!

Travel Guide Spot Bangkok Map

Check out our tourist map on Bangkok showcasing the attractions in their districs. Make sure to save it to your google maps to use it offline on your trip to Bangkok

Hassle-Free Transport for Bangkok Attractions

We took this Tuk-Tuk hop on-off tour when moving about the attractions in Rattanakhosin. It was a hassle-free and very efficient means of getting around as we did not need to put up with the haggling tuk-tuk drivers—They know they’re in a tourist destination and can push for higher prices. This hop-on-ff service saved us a lot of money and hassle.

  • Start Time is 07:30 and the Opening Hours: Daily, 07:30 – 21:00

  • Starting Point is at 1/11 Trok Mahathat, Maharaj Road, Phra Nakorn, Bangkok

What’s Included

  • A one-day access to Tuk Tuk Hop service
  • Pocket WiFi (if selected)
  • Hotel drop-off (if selected)

Note that a Guide is not included Optional Add-ons are: Pocket WiFi, and a Hotel drop-off for up to 3 guests

Explore Rattanakhosin and the Old Bangkok with unlimited tuk tuk rides

  • Easy app-based pick-up and drop-off
  • Stops near top attractions like:
  • Grand Palace
  • Wat Pho
  • Wat Arun
  • Khao San Road
  • Chinatown
  • Golden Mount
  • Flower Market, and many more

This is perfect For:

Travelers wanting a flexible, fun, and authentic way to see Bangkok’s historic core, while still doing it all themselves.

Book Transport

Temples, Shrines & Palaces of Bangkok

Section titled “Temples, Shrines & Palaces of Bangkok”

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace, built in 1782, is like walking straight into Thai history. The kings used to live here, and even though they don’t anymore, it’s arguably still Bangkok’s most famous spot. King Rama I’st built it after moving the court in 1782 for better safety. Latter kings kept adding to it, making it the awe inspiring place it is today. There are stories like the mysterious death of King Rama VIII in 1946. And more recently it was used for King Rama IX’s big funeral held in 2017 as well as King Rama X’s crowning in 2019.

The palace Grounds are expansive, covering about 94.5 hectares, with more than 100 buildings that showcase the evolution of architecture over the last 200 years.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

This is Thailand’s holiest temple, built in 1782, is Thailand’s spiritual center and holds the Emerald Buddha. It’s important to Thai Buddhism and the monarchy. Inside, fierce yaksha statues guard the Emerald Buddha, a small but holy statue on a beautiful shrine and The King changes its robes with the seasons. It showed up in the 15th century in Chiang Rai, however no one knows exactly where it came from. The Ramakian Murals are cloister walls that contain 178 murals telling the Thai version of the Ramayana. You can visualise the story of Rama and Sita, and Hanuman’s heroics. Then finally see the Phra Mondop library, along with its pearl doors and silver floors, plus the Prasat Phra Thep Bidon and the Phra Si Ratana chedi.

Other notable spots include:

  • The Inner Palace: Where the king’s harem lived, and guarded by female warriors.
  • Borombhiman Hall: King Rama VI’s French-style home, although it is now only viewable from the outside.
  • Chakri Mahaprasat Hall: A symbol of Thai culture, and holding the ashes of the former kings.
  • Dusit Hall

Wat Pho

Wat Pho, or the the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is covered in gold leaf as well as mother-of-pearl. It’s a huge 46m long, 15m high statue of Buddha entering Nirvana and it’s the country’s biggest reclining Buddha statue. The complex contains four chapels hosting over 300 Buddha images. One can also find a courtyard containing Chinese statues and stupas that are decorated with ceramic flowers and tiles. Wat Pho also teaches Thai medicine and massage and is considered the first university of Thailand as Traditional Thai Medicine was first fomalized there. You can get a massage here, but be sure to sign up as soon as you arrive as the spots fill up quickly.

The main attraction is the 46m gold Reclining Buddha, which shows Buddha entering Nirvana. The feet are covered in mother-of-pearl with 108 symbols. In the back, one can drop coins in the 108 bronze bowls for good fortune. However, Wat Pho is expansive, the grounds are decorated with temples, courtyards, and gardens. Notable attractions include:

  • Thai Massage: Get an authentic Thai or foot massage here.
  • Massage Class: One can learn the art of Thai massage at the school.
  • Phra Ubosot: A beautiful building with striking decorations holding the second most honored Buddha image.
  • Royal Chedis: The four big stupas honoring the first four kings.
  • Bodhi Tree: A holy tree grown from cuttings from the Buddha’s original enlightenment tree.
  • Old Stone Carvings: See ancient Thai knowledge and history carved in stone. It’s a UNESCO site!
  • Stone Statues: Discover the statues of Marco Polo and Chinese warriors presented here that were brought through on ships.

For a full in-depth look into the temple and the palace, book a guided tour. A local guide can give a lot of insight and information about the history of the temple and palace, and of course answer many of your questions. Its highly recommended!

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, sits on the Chao Phraya River and is an all famous Bangkok sight. The name Arun comes from the Hindu god Aruna - linked to the rising sun. The temple’s surface reflects the morning and afternoon light. It has tall, majestic piers towering up into the sky. Then an 82m high Khmer-style tower in the middle of the temple allows you climb the stairs to see a fantastic view Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River. It has a tall spire and awe inspiring porcelain art with a fascinating history. It all started as a small shrine back in the 16th century. King Taksin arrived here as he fled the invaders in 1767 and made it part of his capital, renaming it to Wat Chaeng. Then in the early 1800s, King Rama II enlarged it, building the 82-meter-high spire, which King Rama III then finished.

  • Climb the Stairs: It’s definitely worth a climb for the stunning views of the river and Bangkok. You will also notice that the porcelain is intricately detailed.
  • Grounds: The temple has some more quaint riverside hangouts, quiet spots, and a library.
  • Ordination Hall: Inside there is a Buddha statue that King Rama II is said to have designed, plus there is some noteworthy paintings about Prince Siddhartha.

If you’d rather have a tour, there are walking tours that visit all the temples listed with detailed information.

Erawan Shrine

Built in 1956 to ward off bad luck during hotel construction, this shrine dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma is a significant spiritual site.

Wat Mahathat This riverside temple offers free daily meditation classes led by English-speaking instructors. Sessions last two to three hours, and extended meditation retreats are available for those who wish to deepen their practice. It is located on Ko Ratanakosin near the Chao Phraya River

Golden Mount

The Golden Mount, is an iconic Bangkok landmark with an interesting story. King Rama III wanted a towering stupa, but the ground was of course too soft to support it. Later, his successor built a smaller, gold stupa after planting trees to keep the hill stabilised. King Rama V then added a Buddha relic from India, making it a key religious spot. This historic temple, part of Wat Saket, boasts one of the best panoramic views of Bangkok. While the temple itself is free to enter, climbing to the summit costs a small entry fee. After visiting, ensure you venture through the Ban Baat district, where artisans handcraft alms bowls for monks, a tradition dating back to the 19th century.

  • Climb the stairs to get great city views. The chants you hear are Buddhist teachings.
  • Wat Saket is a beautiful temple with spectacular paintings, including scary scenes of the Buddhist hell.

Dusit Palace Park

Dusit Palace Park, planned by King Rama V after his 1897 trip to Europe, embodies European castle ideas with traditional Thai style. The park has noteworthy buildings and museums.

Highlights include:

  • Royal Thai Elephant Museum: It shows the history of Thailand’s white elephants. There’s even a large elephant statue that is considered sacred.
  • Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall: This was a throne hall back in 1904, it combines Victorian and Moorish designs, with craft displays.
  • Vimanmek Teak Mansion: It was built in 1910 and was the former home of King Rama V. It is full of his personal belongings and vintage art collections.
  • Ancient Cloth Museum: See royal silks and cottons here.

Sri Mariamman Temple

Bangkok’s Hindu heritage is on display at the Sri Mariamman Temple, an ornate South Indian-style sanctuary adorned with intricate carvings. Built in the 1860s, it remains an important religious site.

Wat Suthat

Wat Suthat is a top-ranking royal temple with detailed paintings of Buddha’s life. It features the massive, 8-meter-tall Phra Si Sakayamuni statue, which is Thailand’s biggest old bronze statue from the Sukhothai era.

  • The main chapel behind the sanctuary is the biggest in Thailand, and because notable Brahman priests were linked to this temple, it’s viewed as a key temple in Thai religion.
  • King Ananda Mahidol’s ashes are kept here.

Wat Benchamabophit

  • It’s called the Marble Temple since it’s made of Italian white marble.
  • Built in the 1800s, it’s known for its balanced design and beautiful balcony that has 52 Buddha statues.
  • This place is great for Thai Buddhist art. You might even see a local family praying, performing real rituals.

Top Attractions Tours

Section titled “Top Attractions Tours”

Grand Palace and Top Sights Walking Tour

⏱ Duration: Half-day

👣 Guided by a local expert

✅ Our pick

Tour Highlights

  • Talat Noi: Explore the narrow lanes, iconic temples, and the Chinese-Thai culture
  • Wat Traimit: Home to the beautiful Golden Buddha
  • China Town Gate & Siang Kong Shrine: Cultural landmarks that are rich in heritage
  • Bangkok’s Chinatown: Try local streetfood and some unique ice cream flavors
  • Wat Chakrawat (The Crocodile Temple): Visit a temple here that is home to real crocodiles
  • The Grand Palace: The iconic royal landmark and architectural marvel of Bangkok
Book Tour

Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour

Highlights

  • Wat Pho

  • Wat Arun:

Dress Code Required: Long pants/skirts, sleeved shirts

Not allowed: Shorts, leggings, ripped or sheer clothing

Good to Know

  • Expect heavy morning traffic—plan ahead.
  • Guided by a knowledgeable local for deeper insight into Thai culture.
Book Tour

Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew Walking Tour

Highlights

Grand Palace:

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha):

Dress Code

  • Required: Long pants/skirts, sleeved shirts
  • Not allowed: Shorts, leggings, ripped or sheer clothing

Good to Know

  • Ideal for travellers with limited time
  • Insight from knowledgable guides into two of Bangkok’s most treasured landmarks
Book Tour

Museums

Section titled “Museums”

National Museum

The National Museum in Bangkok offers a look into Thai history and culture. It started as a palace in 1782 and was turned into a museum in 1874.

  • The Thai History Gallery showcases Buddha statues and artifacts from Thailand’s past, from the prehistoric times all the way to the Bangkok eras.
  • Some notable things to see are King Ramkhamhaeng’s stone pillar, King Taksin’s throne, and a film about King Rama VII.
  • The arts and ethnology section contain crafts, instruments, fabrics, and royal items, while the archaeology section covers the evolution of Thai art.
  • The Phutthaisawan Chapel has the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha, and the Chariot Hall contains the royal funeral chariots.
  • Address: 4 Soi Na Phra That, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
  • The Phra Chan Ferry Pier is the easiest access.

The Bangkokian Museum

Showcasing local history and providing a glimpse into 1930s Bangkok life.

  • Address: 273 Saphan Yao Alley, Si Phraya, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

  • Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Si Phraya Pier for easy access.

  • The Bangkokian Museum is sort of hidden. It displays what life was like in Bangkok back in the early 1900s.

  • With its attractive mix of home history, furniture, and vintage items, it gives you a look at the city’s past.

  • The museum is spread out in three old wooden houses, each sharing a different piece of the story.

King Prajadhipok Museum

One can learn about Thailand’s last absolute monarch, Rama VII.

  • Address: 2 Lan Luang Rd, Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
  • Easily get there by taking the Khlong Saen Saep Express Boat to the Panfa Leelard Pier

The Bangkok Doll Factory & Museum

See handcrafted dolls inspired by Thai mythology and culture.

  • To get there, take a taxi/Grab/Boly from the BTS Phaya Thai station.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

MOCA is a world-class contemporary art museum with a focus on Thai artists. This is the collection of Boonchai Bencharongkul, who has an immense passion for art. There are about 800 pieces from his collection that are exhibited in 20,000 square meters. For anyone who appreciates contemporary art, they won’t want to miss this.

  • Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM daily (closed Mondays)
  • There is a reasonable admission fee
  • Address: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
  • One can access it via the Bang Khen Station on the Krung Thep Aphiwat - Rangsit (Dark Red Line) Then walk or a Grab/Bolt for the last leg.

Museum of Counterfeit Goods

Dedicated to Bangkok’s booming fake goods industry, this museum showcases an astonishing collection of fakes. You can take a tour on Mondays at 2:00 PM and Thursdays at 10:00 AM. Book at in advance.

Children’s Discovery Museum

an interactive museum for kids that offers exhibits on science, engineering, and culture. The kids will love the Dino Detective Zone, where they can dig for fossils. The museum features an outdoor water play area, Ensure you pack sunscreen and swimming gear for the kids. It is also located near the Wachirabenchathat Park as well as Queen Sirikit Park, making it a perfect trip of the children.

  • Address: 810 Kamphaeng Phet 4 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
  • Its conveniently located right at the MR (Blue Line) Chatuchak Park Station.

The Erawan Museum

If you can spare a few extra days in Bangkok, and want to check out some interesting spots outside the city center, one must-see is the Erawan Museum, located just south of downtown. You’ll recognize it by the big three-headed elephant statue perched on top of a pink building.
The museum itself is quite interesting, blending art, culture, and spirituality in a very unique way. The gardens are good for a stroll, and you can climb the beautiful staircase up to the elephant’s head.

  • Address: JHHQ+CH, Tambon Bang Muang Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan 10270, Thailand
  • The most convenient route is on the BTS Green Line to Pu Chao station, then grab a taxi or a Grab/Bolt for the last stretch to the museum.

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