Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a bustling metropolis and one of the most dynamic places in the country. In this guide to “Things to do in Bangkok”, we’ll take a deep dive into activities and attractions to make your Bangkok trip memorable. The city of Bangkok is an eclectic blend of progressive modernity, yet it is rooted in Buddhist traditions. If you have been thinking about planning a trip to Thailand, Bangkok can be an excellent starting point for your Thai sojourn. You can visit its iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Palace, or visit its sky bars to soak in the stunning city lights. After a day of shopping and eating, you can relax with a Thai spa and massage or watch a mesmerising cabaret show in the evening. To know further, please read below what the best things to do in Bangkok are:

Best 20 Things to do in Bangkok

Are you a couple planning a romantic getaway in Bangkok and thinking about the things to do in Bangkok or visiting the city for the first time and wanting to know what to do in Bangkok? Here is our pick on what to do in Bangkok for couples, families, and first-time visitors:

Things to do in Bangkok for Couples

1. Have a Candlelit Dinner of Chao Phraya River Cruise

a cruise on ping river

Your Bangkok trip as a couple wouldn’t be considered complete if you didn’t have a candlelight dinner on the Chao Phraya River cruise. Here, you can experience Thai hospitality as the dinner cruises glide on the river, paired with stunning views of sparkling city lights. On the cruise, the couple can enjoy a dinner buffet, a live music performance, dance, and bond over the romantic dinner date.

2. Click Couple Photos at Mahanakhon Skywalk

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Witness the breathtaking views of Bangkok city with your partner from the Mahanakhon Skywalk. It has the highest observation deck in all of Thailand. Once you reach the top, stand on the glass tray to have a bird’s-eye view of the metropolis below. A special, dedicated photo area lets you capture stunning photos. The best time to visit the Mahanakhon Skywalk is during the sunset. The combination of the sun setting and city views makes for a perfect backdrop for an Instagram-worthy photo.

3. Enjoy a Relaxing Couple Spa Session

There is no shortage of spa and wellness centres in Bangkok, and getting couples’ spa therapy at one of these centres is an ideal way to spend quality time. The treatment provided in a couples spa session can depend on centre to centre, but some common essential treatments include body scrubbing, facials, herbal oil massage, and foot reflexology for both partners in a private setting. The trained and professional massage therapists ensure a high level of service, turning a simple spa session into an artful experience. Going to a couples spa is not only a great way to unwind from travel fatigue but also to build trust and companionship.

4. Take a Stroll in Lumphini Park

Take a therapeutic walk at Lumphini Park

Lumphini Park is located in the centre of Bangkok, sprawling across 142 acres, and is visited by tourists and locals. Here you can soak up the scenic view of the Bangkok Skyline, enjoy bird watching, cycling, or a simple stroll. An artificial lake in the park also offers swan boating on rent. You can also feed fish and turtles in the garden and spot some monitor lizards. In addition, busking takes place in this park from time to time, which will add to a memorable experience.

5. Share a Drink Together at a Bangkok Rooftop Bar

To elevate their romantic getaway in Bangkok, couples can head to one of the many rooftop bars in the city. Most of them are located on the top floors of skyscrapers. Under the twinkling stars and chic ambiance, share a drink and a conversation with your partner. If you’re visiting during the high season, make sure to make advance bookings to avoid the last-minute rush.

Things to do in Bangkok with Family

6. Watch Wonderful Animals at Safari World

One of the fun things to do in Bangkok is to visit Safari World, which is an open zoo that houses over 100 different animals. The zoo is bifurcated into two sections, which are Safari Park and Marine Park. You can witness animals and watch them thrive in their natural habitat. Besides these attractions, there are also live shows featuring dolphins, elephants, sea lions, etc. There are also restaurants in Safari World where one can relish Thai food as well as international cuisines. You can also buy souvenirs from one of the retail outlets for keepsakes. Overall, Safari World is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok with family.

7. Dream World, Bangkok

Dream World is an amusement park in Bangkok that promises an eventful day for adults as well as children. While adults can partake in various high-octane rides and slides, Children can relish the themed entertainment such as Space Mountain, Snow Land, Super Splash, and Vikings. In addition, the animal show and stunt show can also elevate your fun and exciting day!

8. Madame Tussauds Museum

Click Snaps at Madame Tussauds Museum

Image Source – https://thesmartlocal.co.th/siam-discovery/

Experience the glitz and glamour of wax figurines of your favourite celebrities in Bangkok by visiting the world-famous Madame Tussauds museum. The museum features a diverse collection of figures, from pop stars to A-list actors, from renowned TV personalities to historic and political icons, from sports stars to figures from the world of arts and sciences. With such an incredible array of personalities to choose from, a visit to Madame Tussauds is an absolute must-do for any tourist visiting Bangkok.

9. SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

Siam Ocean World

The mesmerising Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is a 4D aquatic park in Bangkok city. It is hailed as one of the biggest aquariums not just in Thailand but in the entire Southeast Asia! You get to witness around 400 marine species and an ocean glass tunnel that gives you amazing backdrops to click photos on. Here you can find marine creatures like shark rays, octopus, jellyfish, seahorse, starfish, African penguins, frogs, etc. Once you get inside, you will realise your trip to SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World has been not only educational but also delightfully entertaining for your kids and family.

10. Try E-Go Karting in Bangkok

Try your hand at Go-Karting at Bangkok E-Go kart Track

If you’re looking for something different to do on your trip to Bangkok, why not give go-karting a try? The Bangkok E-Go Kart Track offers both adults and kids the chance to have fun while go-karting. The speed of the go-karts is adjustable, so there’s no need to worry if your child is riding. The adult go-karts can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h, while the kids’ go-karts can reach 25 km/h. Take part with your friends and family and see who comes out on top. There’s even a photo booth where you can snap some quirky shots and capture the happy moments that you’ll cherish forever.

Things to do in Bangkok at Night

11. Eat Street Food in Sukhumvit

Gobble on some street food in Sukhumvit

As the sun sets, get ready to tantalise your taste buds with Thai street food. Savour the delightful Thai street food in one of the most major areas of Bangkok, the Sukhumvit area. Sukhumvit’s street food is one of the best in Bangkok. Savour the succulent grill meats on skewers and delicious pad Thai noodles cooked to perfection. Amidst the lively atmosphere, savouring these delectable street foods becomes an immersive experience. It is a feast for both the palate and the senses.

12. Watch a Cabaret Show

calypso cabaret show

If you’re looking for things to do in Bangkok tonight, then watching a cabaret show should definitely be on your list. We are talking about the scintillating performances of the Calypso Cabaret Show. It has been running for 30 years and still continues to be the most watched or attended cabaret show in Bangkok. A group of 50 performers put on a brilliant spectacle for viewers to enjoy. The colours, coordination, and sync of their performance are mind-blowing. The cabaret performance is guaranteed to entertain and delight its viewers across all ages.

13. Click Photos in front of Asiatique RiverFront and Ferris Wheel

Freeze the memories of the Bangkok trip with perfect photo opportunities at the Asiatique riverfront front and the Bangkok ferris wheel. During the night, the whole place dazzles with twinkling lights from retail outlets, restaurants, shopping stalls, etc. To elevate the fun experience, you can also choose to visit the Haunted House of Mystery Mansion and the well-known Calypso Show.

14. Watch Muay Thai Match

Muay Thai boxing is the national sport and traditional martial art of Thailand. Watch as the skilled and trained fighters combat each other in the ring for the winning title. Enjoy the electrifying display of hard work, passion, and grit in an environment filled with loud cheers from the audience. You can easily find venues in Bangkok hosting Muay Thai boxing matches almost every night. Here, you can mingle with locals and other tourists over a mug of beer and enjoy this thrilling sport.

15. Bar Hopping at Khao San Road

If you are down for some drinking and dancing, head straight to Khao San Road, which is dotted with bars and pubs. It is hailed as the “party street,” and rightfully so. You will also find hostels and backpackers hanging out in this area. Explore this well-lit street in Bangkok to have the ultimate Thai nightlife experience.

Things to do in Bangkok for First time Visitors

16. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

visit to grand palace

One of the key attractions in the city is the awe-inspiring Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Temple, situated within the palace walls. The Grand Palace is a spectacular complex featuring an array of stunning structures, such as halls, pavilions, and buildings, all set against a backdrop of verdant lawns, beautiful gardens, and charming courtyards. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of this iconic landmark with plenty of photos to cherish. In addition, make sure to try the street food that the local vendors offer just outside the palace grounds.

17. Get a Tattoo in Bangkok

Among the many things to do in Bangkok, getting a tattoo will surely be a memorable one. It will be a symbol of your first Bangkok trip. Thailand’s tattoo art is one of the most famous in the world. And Bangkok is filled with many tattoo studios and parlours. Here, people also get traditional Thai tattoos, which are done by monks. It is believed that tattoos have a spiritual significance, protect the positive energies of a person, and ward off all negativity. And if you are still trying to decide what you should get, go for semi-permanent ink or a micro tattoo design.

18. Explore the Markets of Bangkok

Bangkok is a bustling metropolis with no dearth of markets, all catering to your different shopping needs. Starting from the biggest and best market in Bangkok, i.e., Chatuchak Market, locally known as JJ Market, which is the biggest market in Thailand, It houses around 15,000 stalls. And despite being a large market, it is well organised in 27 sections and sois (lanes). Next is Indra Square, a two-story, air-conditioned indoor market, perfect to visit on a scorching day. It is best for Indian products and other knick-knacks. And when in Bangkok, do not miss the unique experience of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

19. Discover ChinaTown in Bangkok

Chinatown is one of the most popular and busiest districts in Bangkok, as it attracts heavy footfall from both locals and tourists. This town displays a vibrant spectacle of street food stalls, retail outlets, and restaurants. During the night, this place thrives with unforgettable kaleidoscopic colours. Tourists in this area love to take selfies amidst the scattering lights, stroll carefree along the pavements, and browse through a variety of shops selling everything from clothes and footwear to accessories and much more. Visiting this bustling walking street is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Bangkok.

20. Explore the Ruins of Ayutthaya

ayutthaya ancient capital

One of the best sightseeing places around Bangkok is Ayutthaya, which is an hour’s drive away. It is an ancient city that served as Thailand’s capital in 1351 and is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Among these are the Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Mahathat temples, which boast stunning architectural designs and intricate details. One can also immerse themselves in the city’s rich history by exploring its numerous ruins, which offer a glimpse into Thailand’s ancient culture and civilization. A visit to the Phra Nakhon Si Historical Park in the centre of Ayutthaya is a must, as it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition to its temples and rustic ruins, one can also relish street food such as river prawns, fish noodles, dumplings, cotton candy wraps, etc.

This brings us to the end of our list of the best things to do in Bangkok. Bangkok is a treasure trove of exciting places and activities that are suitable for different age groups. The activities and attractions of Bangkok cater to travellers of all budgets. Whether you are looking for luxurious options or whether you are on a shoestring budget, Bangkok has got you covered. Book a Bangkok tour package with us and take the first step towards an exciting Bangkok trip today!

FAQ’s

Is 3 days enough for Bangkok?

Yes, in three days, you can cover the major tourist sites in Bangkok, such as the Grand Palace and the Temple of Emerald Buddha. Shop from Chatuchak Market, and explore Bangkok’s nightlife while relishing some street food. And on your last day, you can get a Thai spa and massage.

What is a must try in Bangkok?

Visiting Bangkok’s night market and gobbling on Bangkok’s street food, such as Pad Thai noodles and Tom Yum Goong, is a must try in Bangkok.

What should I do in Bangkok for the first time?

First, do the currency exchange, then head out and eat some street food.
Visit shopping malls or any of Bangkok’s day markets.
Explore Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
Get yourself a Thai massage.
Explore the city via tuk-tuk rides.

What’s Bangkok famous for?

Bangkok is famous for its Michelin star restaurants, nightlife, shopping malls, amusement parks, shopping centres such as MBK and Terminal 21 and floating markets.

What is cheaper in Bangkok than in India?

Clothing and accessories might be slightly cheaper in Bangkok than in India, provided you bargain well.

How much does a meal cost in Bangkok?

A meal in Bangkok sold by street vendors should be anywhere between 50 THB to 130 THB.

What are things to learn before visiting Bangkok?

Before visiting Bangkok, you may learn certain Thai words and phrases, which will help you easily navigate your way amongst the locals. Here are some handy phrases:

  • Sawasdee (Krub/Ka): Hello (for males/females)
  • Khob Khun (Krub/Ka): Thank you (for males/females)
  • Chai: Yes.
  • Mai Chai: No.
  • Kob kun mak: Thank you very much.
  • Mai pen rai: You’re welcome/It’s okay.
  • Sabai dee mai (Krub/Ka): How are you?

What are the things to avoid in Bangkok?

Things to avoid in Bangkok are:
Being disrespectful to the Thai Royal family, touching a monk’s robe, touching someone’s head in Thailand, using feet to point at something, wearing immodest clothing while visiting a temple, etc. and not following the local rules.