Location: In the Banglamphu District.
What is it? Khaosan Road is a hub of budget travel, a melting pot of cultures, and an explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. Street sellers sell everything from questionable fashion statements to delicious pad thai. Eat insects, indeed, you read that correctly, skewers of scorpions for example. Khao San Road is crazy! Tuk tuk drivers compete for your attention. While bars with neon lights invite you in for an drink (or three). If the streets are alive around dusk, the bars will be packed by midnight. One of the best places to go out and begin, or even end a wild night in Bangkok is Khao San Road. Down the street are low cost guesthouses which offer a place to bed after a night of exploration. Or just a place to get away from the nonstop activity. Backpackers paradise wasn’t always Khaosan Road. It was formerly renowned for its rice warehouses. The meaning of “Khaosan” is “unhulled rice”, a silent reference to the street’s past.
Why to go? Khaosan Road presents a cultural encounter. Enjoy the atmosphere, eat some street cuisine, and socialize with other international tourists. Khaosan Road is not for the weak of heart, so be ready for the sensory overload!
Location: There are several floating markets in and around Bangkok.
Open: Daily, early mornings, from around sunrise until noon.
What is it? From vegetables and fruits to handcrafted souvenirs, sellers operate on small boats. As you walk over the canals, barter with the sellers. Experience a slice of traditional Thai life. Some markets offer boat cruises that pass through the canal’s villages and gorgeous nature. In the past, floating marketplaces played a major role in Thai culture. Serving as a way of trade and goods transportation. Despite the fact that supermarkets are becoming more and more popular. Floating markets are still a popular tourist destination and a valuable cultural asset. Discover the Khlong of Bangkok Noi, Tha Kha Floating Market, Bang Noi Floating Market, and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Why to go? The floating market offers a unique view into Thai commerce and will give you a fun and authentic shopping experience. Hop on a boat ride through the canals, explore the colorful stalls, and soak up the atmosphere by water.
Location: Chatuchak District, North of Bangkok Center.
Open: Weekends, 9am to 6pm.
What is it? One of the largest weekend markets in the world. More than 15.000 stalls are located under the Thai sun in Chatuchak. Selling food, clothing, pets, and a lot of other things. You’ll undoubtedly find what you’re looking for! The Weekend Market is separated into sections based on the kinds of products it offers, because of its size. While being lost is half of the fun, this can help you navigate the market! Explore aisles overflowing with apparel, souvenirs, handmade items, antiques, and even live animals. This is where bargaining is a crucial ability. Therefore, get ready to flex your bargaining skills and close some incredible deals. Stop shopping and fill up at one of the many food stands offering endlessThai cuisine. At Chatuchak, getting lost is half the pleasure. So accept the arrangement that mimics a maze and relish the excitement of the hunt! Originally founded in the 1940s, the market served as a venue for local businesses. It is now a popular tourist destination and an important aspect of Bangkok culture.
Why to go? The Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a unique shopping opportunity. Discover souvenirs, score amazing bargains, and take in the environment. Chatuchak has something for every user, regardless of experience level with shopping or free time browsing.
Location: Along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, in the Thonburi District.
Open: Daily, 4pm to midnight.
What is it? A riverside complex that combines food, entertainment, and shopping. Asiatique The Riverfront is a modern take on the traditions of the Thai market. Wander around a chic boutique that sells everything from home goods to clothes. Set in the ambiance of an old world Thai town. Savor a wide selection of foreign food at restaurants by the water. Or have a drink at a rooftop bar with views of the Chao Phraya River. For a dose of the extra, visit the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, ride the Ferris Wheel, or see a movie at the multiplex. Asiatique The East Asiatic Company docks, a historic property that has been converted into a hip entertainment district. Served as the foundation for the construction of The Riverfront. The project has a touch of history and architectural appeal because to the incorporation of salvaged elements from demolished buildings throughout Thailand.
Why to go? Asiatique The Riverfront offers a classy entertainment and shopping experience in a stunning riverfront location. Taste the cuisine, shop chic shops, and soak up views of the Chao Phraya River.
Location: Bangkok’s Lumpini District.
Open: Daily 8:30am to 6:30pm.
What is it? A haven amidst Bangkok’s fast paced activity. Lumphini Park offers visitors a chance to get away from the pollution of the city and let you reconnect with nature. In the 18th century, Lumphini Park was a royal residence. Now acting as the city’s green lung. Locals and visitors swarm to this park to unwind and get some fresh air. Explore the lake on a paddle boat that you can rent, jog or ride your bike along the routes that are marked for that purpose. What about just find a nice location beneath a tree to relax with a good book ? More than 30 kinds of birds calling the park home. Leading to a birdwatcher’s paradise. Lumphini Park has a massive population of monitor lizards. Rest confident these ancient reptiles are safe and interesting to observe. Feeling hungry after your eco tour? Yummy Thai snacks and refreshments may be found at food stalls positioned around the park.
Location: Rattanakosin District, near the Grand Palace.
Open: Daily 8:30am to 6:30pm.
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee is ฿200 (around $5 USD) for foreigners.
What is it? Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a must visit for any traveler to Bangkok. Marvel the Phra Buddha Rattana Chonsophas, a massive gilded reclining Buddha statue that stretches over 150 feet! The feet of the Reclining Buddha are aligned with mother of pearl. Depicting the 108 auspicious symbols of Buddhism. Discover the temple halls full with murals, explore the courtyards dotted with chedis (stupas). The temple complex also houses a giant bell and a collection of Chinese style sculptures, adding to its cultural richness. Let the collection of Buddha statues affect you. Wat Pho is also home to a school of traditional Thai massage. Perfect for soothing those tired muscles after a day of exploration.
Why to go? Wat Pho is a blend of history, art, and spirituality. Witness the Reclining Buddha. Explore the temple complex, and experience a vital center of Thai culture.
Location: Pathum Wan District.
Open: Daily, 10am to 10pm.
What is it? A maze of shopping where you can find anything you want (and maybe some things you didn’t even realize you needed). MBK Center is a mega mall, find more than 2,000 retailers arranged on over 8 levels. In the 1970s, MBK Center was first constructed as a Japanese department store. These days, regional businesses and global companies coexist in a melting pot. The huge mall provides everything you need for a great shopping trip, including a foreign exchange office and its own postal service! Explore a labyrinth of outlets for home goods, gadgets, fashion, and souvenirs. Here, haggling is still supported, so try your skills and score amazing discounts on apparel, electronics, and locally made handicrafts. Require a break from shopping? Thai specialties and other cuisines are available at many restaurants and cafes. For some more entertainment, there’s also a movie theater and a bowling alley.
Why to go? You can get everything you need to shop at MBK Center in one place. Discover amazing discounts on a big range of goods, take in the environment. Perhaps even come across unusual finds you were unaware of.
Location: Rattanakosin District.
Open: Daily, from morning until late evening.
What is it? Feel a senses overload done to perfection! Chinatown in Bangkok is a mix of sights, sounds, and smells that will transport you to the real China. One of the biggest Chinatowns outside of mainland China is located in Bangkok. Chinese immigrants founded it in the 18th century. Continued to be a prosperous community ever since. Hundreds of booths fill the small lanes, selling anything from gold jewelry and traditional Chinese medicines to exotic fruits and dried seafood. Here, negotiation is essential, so get ready to show off your financial prowess and seal some amazing deals. Street food sellers attract visitors by smells as they serve anything from sweet sticky rice to dumplings. Amid the market, Buddhist temples and Chinese shrines create a little peace. Chinatown hosts an annual Chinese New Year celebration. Here parades, lion dances, and delicious food stalls take place all day long.
Why to go? Chinatown offers a glimpse into Thai Chinese culture. Experience the atmosphere, bargain for souvenirs, and indulge in an explosion of delights.
Location: Everywhere throughout Bangkok.
Open: Daily, from late afternoon until late evening.
Ticket Fee: Free to browse, but expect to pay for your delicious finds!
What is it? Dive into a culinary adventure unfolding on every street corner. Bangkok’s street food scene is a symphony of flavors, aromas, and sights. Smoking grills waft, smells, carts showcase exotic ingredients, and vendors entice you to try their specialties. Pad thai noodles sizzle in many different woks. Mango sticky rice tempts with its sweet fragrance. Next to fiery curries that will challenge your taste buds. Be adventurous! Try a satay chicken, indulge in a bowl of spicy tom yum soup. Finish of the meal with a sweet roti pancake. The possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to point and ask. Most sellers are happy to explain their dishes. Street food is more than just a meal in Bangkok. Connect with locals through their traditional food. Taste authentic flavors, and witness the city’s energy firsthand. Bangkok’s street food scene has been recognized by UNESCO. As a form of intangible cultural heritage. That’s right, this deliciousness is officially a cultural treasure!
Why to go? Thai cuisine may be experienced authentically and affordably through street food. Step outside of your comfort zone, give something new a try. Discover the atmosphere of Bangkok’s streets. The tastiest food is frequently found on wheels or in this case, carts!
Ticket Fee: Free to enter, but you’ll pay for your food and drinks.
What is it? Step into a real life dream fairytale. The Unicorn Cafe is a wonderland of pink colors, rainbow sprinkles. All things girly and magical. From unicorn shaped chairs to walls adorned with fluffy clouds. This cafe is a treat for the eyes. The menu is equally magical. On the menu rainbow lattes, unicorn themed desserts. From fluffy pancakes to pink smoothies. There’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Some dishes even are inspired by mythical creatures. The Unicorn Cafe isn’t just about aesthetics. The food and drinks are actually quite delicious! Be prepared for a potential wait, especially on weekends. This cafe is a popular spot for families and anyone seeking a dose of fun.
Why to go? The Unicorn Cafe offers a unique and Instagrammable experience. Indulge your inner child, take some cute photos, and enjoy delicious, albeit slightly overpriced, treats. It’s the perfect escape to tasty pink enviroment.