Places to Visit Around Bangkok

If you’re planning a vacation to Bangkok, you’re in for a treat! Thailand’s capital is an exciting city, full of amazing sights, sounds, and flavors. From delicious street food to awe-inspiring temples, Bangkok has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or an adventurous family holiday, there are plenty of places to visit around Bangkok. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places to see and things to do in and around the city.

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is the most iconic and popular tourist attraction in Bangkok. Built in 1782, the palace was the official residence of the Thai kings for 150 years. Today, it is one of the most visited places in Bangkok, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The palace complex covers more than 218,400 square meters and contains several buildings, each with its own unique design and architecture. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and admire the intricate sculptures, murals, and decorations. Inside the palace walls, visitors can also explore the royal temple, known as Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddhist relic in Thailand.

The Floating Markets

Bangkok has many iconic floating markets that are a must-see for any visitor. These colorful markets are located on the canals of the city’s many waterways. Here, vendors display and sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats. Shopping from the boats is a unique experience, and you can find some great deals on local souvenirs and handicrafts. You can also sample some of the local street food, including everything from spicy Thai curries to sweet and savory desserts.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Bangkok. The market covers more than 35 acres and contains over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and accessories to home decorations and antiques. The market is open every weekend and is a great place to find some unique souvenirs and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Thailand’s most iconic and popular floating markets. Located about 100 kilometers south of Bangkok, this floating market is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of rural Thailand. Here, vendors sell a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats, and visitors can also enjoy a variety of Thai street food.

Bang Krachao

Bang Krachao is a hidden gem in Bangkok that is often overlooked by tourists. Located on the outskirts of the city, Bang Krachao is a man-made island that is home to lush forests, canals, and winding pathways. Here, visitors can explore the local markets, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take a boat ride through the canals. There are also several wildlife sanctuaries and natural parks in the area, as well as a number of bike and boat tours.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical city located just outside of Bangkok. This ancient city was once the capital of Siam and is home to several historical sites and temples. Visitors can explore the city’s ruins and admire the grand architecture of the temples. Ayutthaya is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine, such as the famous Thai noodles.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is a beautiful park located about two hours outside of Bangkok. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and gibbons, and it is a great place to go hiking or bird watching. The park also has several waterfalls and other natural wonders, as well as a number of camping sites and lodges.

Conclusion

Bangkok is a city full of surprises. There are plenty of places to visit around Bangkok, from the iconic Grand Palace to the hidden gems of Bang Krachao and Khao Yai National Park. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or an adventurous family holiday, Bangkok has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to the city, make sure to explore some of these amazing places and don’t forget to bring your camera!

An Insider’s Guide: Places to Visit Around Bangkok

As the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok offers tourists endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From ancient temples to bustling markets, Bangkok has something for everyone. However, in this insider’s guide, we will take you off the beaten path and show you some hidden gems, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that only the locals know.

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

While the Grand Palace and the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market are popular tourist spots, Bangkok has plenty of lesser-known attractions that are worth exploring. One such place is the Jim Thompson House, which is a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture. Another hidden gem is the Golden Mount Temple, located on a hill in Old Bangkok. From the top, the panoramic views of the city are breathtaking. For nature lovers, the Bang Krachao Island is a green oasis, a bike ride on a small island just south of Bangkok.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Thai cuisine is world-renowned for its sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavor profile. Bangkok is full of amazing local food that you shouldn’t miss. For a unique dining experience, head to the Baan Khanitha Thai Cuisine restaurant, which has a beautiful garden and serves a wide variety of authentic Thai dishes. For street food, check out the Yaowarat Road, Bangkok’s Chinatown, for Crab Fried Rice, Noodle soups and Dimsum. If you want to learn about Thai cuisine, take a cooking class at Sompong Thai Cooking School, to learn the techniques and spices used in Thai cooking.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Tradition

Thai culture is rich and diverse, with a long history of art, music, festivals, and customs. The Loy Krathong Festival is a must-see, held annually in November. This festival involves floating flower-filled baskets down rivers or ponds, to pay homage to the water goddess. For art lovers, check out the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, which has an impressive collection of contemporary art from Thailand and the surrounding region. The National Museum is also worth a visit to learn about Thailand’s ancient culture.

Local History: Learn Fascinating Stories From the Past

Bangkok has a long and storied history, with fascinating stories and legends spanning centuries. The Wat Arun temple has a dark past involving wars and invasions, which makes it an interesting historical site. The Bangkok Corrections Museum, formerly the infamous Bangkok Hilton prison, offers a chance to learn about Thailand’s judicial system and penal history. The Thai philosophy School of Buddhism had its start in Bangkok, and it’s interesting to learn about its beliefs and practices.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a unique experience in Bangkok, explore the Khlong Toei Market, which is one of the largest fresh markets in Asia. Here you will find exotic fruits, live seafood, and local delicacies that you won’t find anywhere else. Or visit the Airplane Graveyard, an abandoned graveyard in the outskirts of the city, which is home to abandoned scrap jets having an eerie ambiance. Finally, For lovers of high fashion, the Museum of Contemporary Art boasts an impressive collection of contemporary fashion designed by Thai designers.

The Bottom Line

Bangkok is a city that will enchant you with its vibrant culture, fascinating history, and delectable cuisine. With this insider’s guide, we hope to have shown you some of the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, historical stories, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular traveler, Bangkok will offer you something new and exciting each time you visit.