Things To Do In Bangkok Today

Bangkok is one of the most vibrant cities in the world and is often referred to as the “City of Angels”. It is the capital of Thailand and home to over 8 million people, making it the second most populous city in Southeast Asia.

Bangkok has been a major trading port since the mid-1500s, and it has grown into a bustling metropolitan city. In recent years, it has become well known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic pagodas, and interesting cultural attractions. It is a city that embraces the old and the new, blending modern skyscrapers with ancient temples and shrines.

Despite its growing population and changing landscape, Bangkok still maintains its traditional charm. The city is home to numerous Buddhist wats, or temples, and traditional markets where locals go to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. There are also countless restaurants, bars, and nightclubs offering a range of international cuisines and entertainment.

With so much to see and do, Bangkok can be overwhelming to first-time visitors. To help you make the most of your time in this exciting city, here is a list of the top things to do in Bangkok today.

Visit the Grand Palace

One of the most iconic attractions in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, a royal residence dating back to 1782. The palace is an impressive complex of brightly colored buildings, spires, and courtyards surrounded by high walls. Inside, you’ll find an impressive array of gilded statues, intricate carvings, and colorful murals depicting scenes from Thai literature and history.

The palace is also home to the famous Emerald Buddha, a revered cultural icon carved from jade that dates back to the 16th century. During your visit, you can also explore nearby Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha), and Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn).

Experience the City’s Nightlife

No trip to Bangkok is complete without experiencing its bustling nightlife. From lively street markets to chic rooftop bars, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for live music or a relaxed evening out with friends, Bangkok has plenty of options.

One of the best places to start your night out is Khao San Road. This lively street market is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a range of international cuisines and entertainment. For a more upscale experience, head to the rooftop bars of Sukhumvit for views of the city skyline and craft cocktails. There are also plenty of nightclubs offering live music from local DJs and international acts.

Explore Local Markets

Bangkok is home to numerous bustling markets where locals go to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. One of the most iconic markets is Chatuchak Weekend Market, which covers 27 acres and contains over 8,000 stalls selling everything from handicrafts to antiques. Other popular markets include Pratunam Market (for clothing), Bang Rak Market (for jewelry), and Pak Khlong Talat (for flowers).

It’s important to remember that these markets are very crowded and can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water with you when you visit.

Learn About Local Culture

Bangkok is a great place to learn about Thai culture and history. There are numerous museums dedicated to Thai art, literature, politics, and history, including the National Museum of Thailand, Suan Pakkad Palace Museum, and Bangkok Folk Museum. You can also visit local temples like Wat Pho or Wat Arun to learn about Thai Buddhism or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Thai dishes.

Explore Bangkok by Boat

One of the best ways to explore Bangkok is by boat. Taking a boat tour gives you a unique perspective on the city as you pass by iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. You can also take a long-tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River or rent a private boat for a more personal experience.

Take an Arts & Crafts Class

If you’re looking for something different to do in Bangkok, consider taking an arts & crafts class. There are numerous classes offered throughout the city that teach traditional Thai crafts such as flower arranging, batik painting, paper making, and basket weaving. These classes are a great way to meet locals and learn about traditional Thai culture.

Visit Local Temples

No trip to Bangkok is complete without visiting at least one of its many Buddhist temples. The two most famous temples are Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn). Both are stunningly beautiful and offer a glimpse into traditional Thai culture and architecture. Other popular temples include Wat Traimit (the Temple of Gold), Wat Saket (the Temple on the Mount), and Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha).

Take a Tour of an Elephant Sanctuary

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Bangkok, consider taking a tour of an elephant sanctuary. These sanctuaries provide a safe haven for rescued elephants where visitors can learn about elephant conservation efforts and observe these gentle giants up close. Popular sanctuaries include Elephant Nature Park, The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, and The Elephant Haven.

Popular Bangkok Tours

Bangkok is filled with unique activities that can make any visit memorable. To help make your trip even more enjoyable, here are two popular tours that you can book today:

Grand Palace & Temple Tour

This tour takes you through some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho – home of the famous Reclining Buddha – as well as other important temples like Wat Arun and Wat Traimit. Along the way, you’ll learn about Thai culture and history from your knowledgeable guide as well as have plenty of time for photos. You can book this tour today.

Cooking Class & Market Tour

This fun and interactive tour takes you through some of Bangkok’s most famous markets where you can shop for ingredients before learning how to make classic Thai dishes like green curry and pad thai from scratch. You’ll also get to sample some traditional snacks along the way. You can book this tour today.