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Bangkok is one of the most vibrant and affordable cities in Southeast Asia. With its bustling streets, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage, there’s always something to see and do in the city. We loved touring the temples, checking out the markets, and eating our way through the city.
Here are five things you can’t miss on your visit.
5. Visit the Jim Thompson House
The Jim Thompson House is a must-visit museum for anyone interested in Thai history and culture. Jim Thompson was an American businessman who helped revive Thailand’s silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. His house is a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture. The museum also showcases Thompson’s art collection.
Can’t Miss: Look at the construction of the home. The entire place was built without nails.
Address: 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
4. Get a Foot Massage
After a day of visiting temples and trekking around the city, your feet will be tired. Luckily, there are many places around the city to get a foot massage. These are inexpensive and no frills, but the masseurs know what they’re doing and will leave your feet feeling relaxed and ready to keep exploring. These massages will also not break the bank with the average cost for one hour being around $8.
Can’t Miss: Remember to tip your therapist. They’ll appreciate it and a few dollars will mean a lot.
Address: Many locations throughout Bangkok
3. Buy Souvenirs at Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, then you won’t want to miss Chatuchak Weekend Market. This massive outdoor market is home to thousands of vendors selling everything from clothing and accessories to antiques and art. It’s open on the weekends and is a great place to pick up gifts and other items to bring back home. One of the odder things we saw here were the stands selling squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks as pets. They were all dressed up in different outfits and too docile. I fear they were drugged.
Can’t Miss: Grab some Pad Thai or mango sticky rice after you’re done shopping.
Address: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
2. Visit the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is located behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This temple is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Bangkok and it’s one of the coolest that I have ever visited. Inside one of the largest temple complexes in the city, the giant reclining Buddha stretches around 150 feet and is covered in gold leaf.
Can’t Miss: Check out some of the many rock gardens that can be found across the sprawling temple grounds.
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
1. Take in the Majesty of The Grand Palace
This is undoubtedly the most famous tourist attraction in Bangkok, and for good reason. The Grand Palace is a stunning complex of buildings that includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Royal Palace, and many other important buildings. The intricate detailing, gold leaf, and crystal work will leave you in awe. Make sure you dress modestly and be prepared for crowds.
Can’t Miss: Make sure you stop by the Emerald Buddha. He’s tiny at only 25 inches tall, but is made of jade and considered sacred in Thailand.
Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
These are just a few of the top sites to see in Bangkok, but of course there are many other great places to visit in the city. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a fun night out, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. These are my can’t miss picks for Bangkok.
Bonus Hotel Pick: We’ve been to Bangkok twice and stayed at The St. Regis Bangkok on both occasions. This five-star hotel is in Siam near many businesses, restaurants, and shopping in addition to attractions like the Erawan Shrine, Central World, Gaysorn Village, Lumphini Park, and Ratchaprasong District. The hotel has a spa, a pool on the 15th-floor, and eight restaurants and bars.
Address: 159 Rajadamri Road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
4 comments
Hope to go back to BKK in the near future. Made first trip in ’92, then ’96. Want to go back to the Grand Palace, ride a river boat and just walk around. Remember the Thais being very friendly. Did make it to Phuket in 2019 as I was nearby in Singapore. Had a great time, finally got to Bond Island, Big Buddah, Elephant rides and just walked around.
Nice. I want to go back as well.
Pfffft no mention of Nana or Cowboy? Ahh, wish I was still married… said no divorced man in BKK ever!
Curious. How ‘bout The Oriental Hotel? Stayed there in 1965. It was wonderful!