21 BEST Things To Do In Bangkok For First-Timers 2026
For many travellers, Bangkok tends to be a stopover on the way to the beaches of the south or the mountains of the north. However, it’s a truly special city in its own right, with so many incredible things to do.
We recently spent a week in Bangkok and, honestly, we’re already planning our return. So, if you’re planning your trip and wondering what to prioritise, here are the absolute best things to do in Bangkok, tried and loved by us.
See The Best Of Bangkok
Bangkok is a big city with so much to do. Take the stress out of your day by booking a full-day tour. A local will take you to all the best places so you can cross them off your bucket list!
➡️ Click HERE To Book Your Day Trip ⬅️
Best Temples & Cultural Sights In Bangkok
Bangkok is packed with temples, and while you could see hundreds, there’s a few that truly stand out. Here’s our favourite temples in Bangkok.
1. The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
If there’s one place you simply can’t skip, it’s the Grand Palace. It’s the city’s most iconic attraction, and for good reason. We’d highly recommend getting there early and booking your skip-the-line ticket in advance. It can get pretty busy, particularly in dry season.
The first area you’ll step into is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It’s easily the one of the most beautiful spots in Bangkok, with every building covered in gold and jewels, and intricate hand-painted murals around every corner.
The next part is the Grand Palace, which used to house the Royal Family. Whilst they no longer live here, the palace is still used for Royal ceremonies. The manicured gardens are kept in pristine condition which just completes the look.
Dress code – Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees. You cannot use a scarf to cover shoulders, but you can rent a cover-up whilst there.
2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
A short walk from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is another Bangkok classic. It is home to the enormous golden Reclining Buddha, measuring 46 metres long and 15 metres high.
I’ll be honest, I thought it might be overhyped, but it completely exceeded expectations. The sheer size of the Buddha is mind-blowing in person. Most visitors stop there, but explore the wider complex and you’ll find peaceful courtyards and quiet shrines that most people miss.
Entry is 300 baht, and you’ll need around an hour.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
You can’t miss Wat Arun when visiting Bangkok. Its shimmering spires dominate the riverside skyline. To get there, hop on the ferry from Tha Tien Pier. It’s just 5 baht and only takes 30 seconds to get there.
Entry is 200 baht, and you can climb partway up the central prang (tower) for sweeping river views. The tallest spire stands at 82 metres, and it’s covered in porcelain mosaics that catch the sunlight beautifully. It’s absolutely stunning, but again it can get pretty busy. If you can, visit first thing in the morning to avoid the majority of crowds.
It is very popular to rent traditional Thai clothing for photoshoots at Wat Arun, with beautiful results. If you’re interested in that, you can find out more here.
4. Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)
Perched on a 60-metre hill, Wat Saket is one of the best places in Bangkok to watch the sunset. The view stretches across the old town towards the modern skyline, with temple rooftops glowing below.
The walk up is shaded, lined with shrines and greenery, and the summit feels surprisingly tranquil. Entry is 100 baht, and the temple closes at 7pm, so check the sunset time before heading up.
5. Wat Traimit (The Golden Buddha Temple)
Hidden in Chinatown, Wat Traimit houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha. It measures three metres tall and weighs 5.5 tons. What’s incredible is that it was hidden under plaster for centuries and rediscovered by accident in 1955 when it was dropped during a move, revealing the gold beneath.
It’s not the most ornate temple on the outside, but the Buddha itself is breathtaking and highly worth seeing. It costs just 100 baht per person to enter.
Bonus tip – On your way there, stop by Scoopp for some of the best ice cream in the city.
6. Wat Ratchabophit
This is one of Bangkok’s hidden gems and my personal favourite temple. Hardly any tourists make it here, which makes it feel so peaceful. The walls are beautifully curved around a gold chedi in the centre. As with most temples in Thailand, it’s decorated with sparkling colourful tiles, and has a pretty garden to rest in.
It’s a small temple, so you don’t need long here, but it’s an absolute must if you want a calmer experience.
7. Wat Ratchanatdaram
Another lesser-known beauty, Wat Ratchanatdaram stands out for its Sri Lankan-inspired design, with 37 golden spires symbolising each of the virtues required to reach enlightenment. From here, you also get an excellent view of nearby Wat Saket.
It’s peaceful, with very tourists, and is a great spot for photography.
Best Free Things To Do In Bangkok
Bangkok might be known for its busy streets, but it’s also full of calm, open spaces where you can slow down, breathe, and see another side of the city. These were our favourite things to do.
8. Lumphini Park
Known as Bangkok’s “green lung,” Lumphini Park is the perfect escape from the noise. Go early and you’ll see locals doing tai chi, jogging, or feeding the fish in the lake.
The highlight? Spotting monitor lizards!!
These giant, dinosaur-like creatures glide through the water and sunbathe on the banks. They look intimidating but are not bothered by humans in the slightest (though of course you should keep your distance).
Stroll under the palm trees and take out one of the free pedalos (spinning boats) for twenty minutes on the lake. It’s surprisingly relaxing, and completely free.
9. Benchakitti Forest Park
This newer park is a total hidden gem. From Silom, take the MRT to Khlong Toei, and you’ll find Benchakitti Forest Park, a peaceful expanse of wetlands, lilypads, and flower-lined paths.
The highlight is the 2km-long skywalk, suspended above the park with beautiful views of the greenery and city skyline. It’s a very local place, and one of the most underrated spots in Bangkok.
10. Free City Views At ICONSIAM
For one of the best free views in Bangkok, head up to the seventh-floor terrace at ICONSIAM. You’ll get a sweeping panorama over the Chao Phraya River and the glittering city skyline. Plus, there’s a Starbucks right there if you fancy a coffee with your view.
Best Markets, Food & Shopping In Bangkok
Bangkok is heaven for shoppers and foodies. Whether you’re after street food or souvenirs, these are the spots that stood out the most.
11. Sampeng Lane Market
Located in Chinatown, Sampeng Lane Market is one of the most fun places to explore. It’s a long, narrow lane, about a kilometre in length, crammed with stalls selling everything you can imagine. Prices are excellent, though make sure to bargain for a good deal.
At the far end, you’ll find a bridge overlooking the river, surrounded by colourful buildings, street art, and food stalls. It’s one of those spots where you can just wander for hours.
12. ICONSIAM & Sook Siam
Bangkok does shopping malls on another level, and ICONSIAM is the best of them all. You get there by ferry, which already makes it fun, and inside you’ll find everything from luxury boutiques to high-street brands.
The real highlight though is Sook Siam, an indoor floating market right inside the mall. There’s a section for every region of Thailand, from northern street food to southern curries. You can also shop for handmade jewellery, bags, and custom trinkets like passport covers or magnets.
13. Asiatique The Riverfront
Catch the boat further downriver to Asiatique, an open-air night market on the Chao Phraya River. Once a working port, it’s now a lively maze of boutique shops, street stalls, and food stands.
Come at sunset when the lights start to glow. You’ll find everything from Michelin guide ice cream to sweet mango smoothies and dinner options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians.
14. Chao Phraya River Cruise
End your night with a sunset river cruise. This is easily one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Watching the skyline turn orange while you float past the Grand Palace and Wat Arun is pure magic.
You can choose from luxury dinner cruises with live music to budget-friendly options, usually ranging from £15–£65 per person. Cruises last around two hours, and the views are unforgettable.
If you’re travelling on a budget, hop on the last public ferry from Asiatique to Phra Arthit for just 40 baht. Sit on the top deck for incredible views and cool evening air.
15. Take A Thai Cooking Class
One of the best ways to experience Thai culture is through its food, and taking a cooking class in Bangkok is such a fun way to do it.
You’ll visit a local market with your instructor, learn about fresh herbs, spices, and sauces, and cook up a few classic dishes like pad thai or green curry. The best part? You get to eat it all afterwards.
It’s the perfect experience for anyone who wants a hands-on cultural activity (and an excellent break from sightseeing).
16. Explore Chinatown
No trip to Bangkok is complete without exploring Chinatown. It’s one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods and easily one of my favourites. Every street bursts with energy, from sizzling woks on the pavements to the glow of red lanterns above your head.
You could spend hours wandering through the tiny lanes, popping into gold shops, grabbing snacks from street vendors, or just people-watching. It’s chaotic in the best way.
17. Try Thai Food on a Food Tour
If there’s one thing Bangkok does better than anywhere else, it’s food. You’ll smell it before you see it, with the scent of Pad Thai drifting from little street stalls that seem to appear out of nowhere.
The best way to experience it all is on a Thai street food tour. You’ll follow a local guide through hidden markets and backstreets, trying dishes you might never think to order on your own. You’ll learn what’s in everything, how it’s made, and where locals actually eat.
Best Day Trips From Bangkok
If you’ve got an extra day or two, there are so many incredible places to visit just outside the city. These are our favourites.
18. Ayutthaya
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of Siam, Ayutthaya is a must-visit if you love history. Here, you can explore crumbling temples, see ancient Buddha statues, and stroll along peaceful riverbanks.
It’s an easy day trip from Bangkok and gives a completely different perspective on Thailand’s past.
19. The Ancient City (Muang Boran)
This open-air museum, known as The Ancient City, is one of the most unique places near Bangkok. It’s essentially a miniature version of Thailand, with replicas of the country’s most famous temples, monuments, and landmarks.
It’s huge and very beautiful. It’s great if you’re short on time and want to see “all of Thailand” in one day.
20. Erawan Museum
This one’s impossible to miss. The Erawan Museum sits beneath a massive three-headed elephant statue. Inside, it’s full of stunning art, vibrant colours, and intricate symbolism. The staircase alone, shaped like a serpent winding through stained glass, is worth the visit.
It’s one of the most surreal, beautiful interiors in Bangkok and a photographer’s dream.
21. Wat Sam Phran (The Dragon Temple)
This one’s straight out of a fantasy novel and you have to see it for yourself. About an hour from central Bangkok, Wat Sam Phran is a 17-storey pink tower wrapped by a massive green dragon. You can walk inside the dragon’s body as it coils up the building, which is as wild as it sounds.
It’s definitely one of Thailand’s most unusual temples and a must for anyone who loves the quirky side of travel.
Where To Stay In Bangkok
The best place to stay in Bangkok is the old town, near the Phra Arthit ferry pier. You’ll be close to the main temples, the river, and still far enough from the party streets to sleep well. Here are our top three picks:
✅ Best Budget Option – Alley & Pier
We stayed here and loved it. The rooms are spacious, the beds are comfortable, and its a short walk to the ferry pier. There’s free coffee and filtered water too!
✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Chillax Heritage Hotel Khaosan
This hotel is a short walk from the famous Khao San Road, and yet is still very peaceful. It’s complete with traditional decor and a beautiful rooftop pool to cool off in.
✅ Best Luxury Option – Chakrabongse Villas
A former royal residence with lush gardens, a riverside pool, and views of Wat Arun. It’s super peaceful, and easily one of the most beautiful hotels in Bangkok.
Best Time To Visit Bangkok
Bangkok has two distinct seasons: wet season and dry season. Both have completely different weather, and there are pros and cons of each.
- Dry season (November–February): Sunny skies, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures in the high 20s. This is peak tourist season, so expect crowds at major attractions and slightly higher prices.
- Rainy season (March–October): Hotter and more humid, but fewer tourists. Showers are heavy but short, usually between 5–7pm. When we visited in June, it rained like clockwork at 6pm each evening which was easy to plan around.
Both seasons have their perks, but if you can handle the humidity, the rainy season is a lovely, quieter time to explore.
How To Get Around Bangkok
Bangkok is big, but surprisingly easy to navigate. There are several ways to get around, depending on where you’re going and what you’re doing.
- Grab: The easiest and most comfortable way to get around (and still cheap).
- Public Bus: The cheapest by far, but not always the most reliable or most comfortable.
- MRT (underground) & BTS (sky train): Great for modern areas, air-conditioned, and efficient.
- River Boats: Our favourite way to get around. Scenic, affordable, and a brilliant way to hop between attractions like Wat Arun, ICONSIAM, and Asiatique.
- Walking: Honestly? The best way to explore. You’ll find hidden cafes, local food stalls, and street life you’d miss otherwise.
FAQs
Still have a few questions about the best things to do in Bangkok? We’ve answered the most common questions below.
Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. It’s a unique and vibrant city with so much to do. It’s got to be the most visited city in the world for a reason, right?
How Long Should I Spend In Bangkok?
Three to five days is ideal. It gives you time to see the main attractions, explore some hidden spots, and take a day trip or two.
Is Bangkok Safe?
Yes, Bangkok is generally a safe destination. We felt perfectly safe during our stay. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid wandering alone at night, the same as you would in any big city.
Is Bangkok expensive?
Not at all. You can eat out for as little as 100 baht (£2.25 / $3), stay comfortably on a budget, and travel across the city for pennies. Even the Grand Palace, at 500 baht, is very reasonable for what you get.
Wrap Up
Bangkok is one of the most vibrant and unique cities in Southeast Asia, and highly worth visiting. It has its own kind of beauty, in the sparkling temples and the riverside views. It’s the sort of city you don’t expect to love but end up coming back to time and time again.
There are so many incredible things to do in Bangkok. From beautiful temples to cooking classes and day trips to ancient sights, we’re sure you’ll never get bored. In fact, you’ll already be planning your next trip before you’ve even left.
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