19 Must-Visit Bangkok Tourist Attractions To Put In Your Travel List

Everyone often immediately thinks of massage parlors and clubs when they hear the name "Bangkok," and they are not wrong. Most visitors who returned after a leisurely journey have always praised the city for its culture. The top locations to visit in Bangkok are evidence that it actually has a lot more to offer. These sites give a soul-stirring experience in addition to reflecting Thai culture at its best. You really must visit these destinations, whether you're on your honeymoon, traveling alone, or with your family. Let's explore Thailand's culture by visiting the 19 must-visit Bangkok tourist attractions that Exotic Voyages has compiled!

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace (Phra Borom Maharatchawang) complex includes not only royal and throne halls but also government offices and the world-famous Wat Phra Kaew, which houses The Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred Buddha statue. The temple became the royal chapel in 1784, just two years after King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. When the royal family is not performing important religious ceremonies, the temple is open to the general public.

(Photo by Noppasin Wongchum)

Wat Pho

​​The Reclining Buddha Temple, also known as Wat Pho in Thai, is a Buddhist temple complex famous for its gold-plated "Reclining Buddha" sculpture. The Buddha is the largest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand, measuring 151 feet long and 50 meters tall. A traditional practice at the temple is donating money in a set of 108 bronze bowls lining the walls for good luck. Wat Pho also serves as the national center for the teaching of traditional Thai medicine. With massage pavilions on the temple grounds, the temple offers a unique opportunity to combine relaxation and sightseeing.

( Photo by Luciano Mortula)

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a well-known Buddhist temple. Wat Arun is a magnificent landmark that rises 70 meters above the earth on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River. Wat Arun is located near opposite Wat Pho, so visiting the two attractions together would be convenient for tourists. The colorful porcelain and seashells that cover the gorgeous and artistically designed temple sparkle brightly throughout the day. The four-cornered pagoda is a symbol of the mythological Mount Meru, which in Buddhist culture is the center of the universe.

(Photo by Carina Hofmeister)

Wat Suthat

This temple was built in the early 1800s to house the great 25-foot-tall Phra Sri Sakyamuni Buddha statue. The famous, massive red swing situated in front of the temple’s gate was previously used in annual celebrations to honor and praise Shiva. Back in the day, young men would ride the swing high in the air during the Brahmin thanksgiving celebration (mid-December), dangling 24 meters from the ground while in full swing, as they try to seize a bag of silver coins with their teeth. This dangerous practice was discontinued in 1932, therefore the swing now provides a great photo opportunity for visitors to Wat Suthat.

(Photo by Wirojsid)

Wat Traimit

The Wat Traimit temple in the Chinatown area of Bangkok lies a seated, cross-legged Buddha statue known as Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon. Unlike many gilded Buddha sculptures, this one is encrusted entirely with gold. It is the world's largest solid gold statue, standing 3.91 meters tall and weighing 5 tonnes. However, the origins of the Golden Buddha are even more intriguing, waiting for tourists to learn about it through the museum on the third floor.

(Photo by Mattbkk)

Damnoen Saduak floating market

Damnoen Saduak market floats on Thailand's longest canal of the same name, only 100 kilometers from Bangkok. Many Thai and foreigners come here every day to shop, dine, and soak up the ambiance of Thailand's water markets, which have existed for over a century. The scene is always bright and bustling, just like how a Thai market would be. Grab a camera and capture and capture the wooden boats lining the canal, offering anything from food, and fruits to trinkets. To escape the heat and catch Damnoen Saduak at its most lively pace, visit the market early in the morning.

(Photo by Chiradech Chotchuang)

River Cruise

One of the greatest ways to witness Bangkok’s beauty is to take a river cruise along the Chao Phraya, which is 372 kilometers in length, sprawling from source to sea. Passed by gorgeous temples, antique structures, and modern skyscrapers, clients may enjoy some of the city's most spectacular attractions while feasting on delectable cuisine.

(Photo by Ekkachai Tisomboon)

Erawan Shrine

Erawan Temple is a renowned Hindu shrine in Bangkok's central area. It's at the junction of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Roads, in front of the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel. As a religious site, it is common to see throngs bringing flowers and incense sticks to pay homage to a gold sculpture of the 4-faced Brahma God - Than Tao Mahaprom. The front face, which faces the shrine's entrance, depicts career and life. Turning clockwise is the second face, representing relationship and family, the third for prosperity, and the last for wisdom and health. As Phra Phrom is reputed to enjoy Thai classical music and dance, there is always a group of classical Thai dancers on hand at the shrine in Bangkok for tourists to observe.

(Photo by Christineg)

Siam Paragon

This opulent mall is every shopaholic's paradise, as it takes pride in being a world-class shopping and entertainment destination for individuals of all ages and interests. Being the first and most famous shopping mall in Thailand, Siam Paragon has a lot to offer as well: From brand labels to local handicrafts and goods, movie theaters and aquariums are among some of Siam Paragon's attractions to explore. There is also a large range of foreign cuisine to choose from, ranging from fine dining to exquisite street food. Located right off the BTS station, Siam Paragon can't be easier to find!

(Photo by Sarunyufoto)

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak (or JJ Market) is the largest market in Asia, with up to 15,000 different stalls in the 14 hectares zone. Selling everything from food, clothes, and decorations to living beings like pets and plants, the market will bring any shopper down to their knees. Equip yourself with a map, even GPS if needed, as this huge campus might take a whole day to explore. Chatuchak is only open on weekends, so make sure not to visit here on weekdays. The market is a terrific location to purchase some merchandise, but be prepared to haggle for the best deal. The beautiful green alleys of Chatuchak Park are a pleasant reprieve after a day of shopping and walking about.

(Photo by Nasrul Hudayah)

Rod Fai Night Market

Srinakarin Rod Fai Night Market (or Talad Rod Fai Train Night Market) is also a big open-air market in Bangkok. With three main divisions: “Market Zone”, “Warehouse Zone” and “Rod’s Antiques”, the market offers a lot to visit, with antique shops, boutique stalls, street-food stalls and pubs among them. Colorful canopies look so intriguing from above!

(Photo by Pakphipat Charoenrach)

The Artist’s House in Thonburi ( Baan Silapin and Klong Bang Luang)

This artsy destination should be on the bucket list of anybody with even a smidgeon of imagination. The Artist's House is a 200-year-old home located on a khlong (canal) in Thonburi, Bangkok's former city. It's a location where young and elderly Thais, as well as a few foreigners, go to enjoy beverages, cuisine, the community, and even the house's traditional Thai puppet play.

(Photo by Joseph Khoury)

Bangkok National Museum

Regarded as Southeast Asia's largest museum, Bangkok's national museum includes a significant collection of antiquities, including ancient art, murals, exhibits from various Asian nations, ceremonial carriages used by royal families, and knowledge about the famous temples and ruins across the country.

(Photo by Cowardlion)

Jim Thompson House

The remarkable collection of Asian art and many interesting displays are housed in the old home of Jim Thompson, who dedicated his life to the Thai silk business after WWII. It is a well-known museum with over 180,000 annual visitors from all around the world. Tourists can't help but admire Jim Thompson's eclecticism and great attention to detail as they go from room to room. The rare antiques and installation art in each area exhibit his excellent sensibility and in-depth understanding of Southeast Asia's art.

(Photo by Cowardlion)

Lumpini Park

Lumpini Park is one of Bangkok's first public parks. Founded in the 1920s, the city's green zone covers over 500,000 square meters and is home to a variety of flora and animals. It's been a favorite gathering location for Bangkok locals throughout the years, as well as the perfect space for outdoor activities and relaxing pastimes. Exercising, practicing Tai Chi, enjoying games and music, learning social dance, and reading books from the library are just a few examples.

(Photo by Nataliia Dubchak)

Khaosan Road

Khao San Road is Southeast Asia's hotspot for backpackers. It's a favorite place for late-night revelers since the street is jam-packed with lively pubs, busy restaurants as well as affordable hostels. Prior to the outbreak, foreigners and locals usually flocked to Khao San Road to celebrate Songkran, Thailand's new year celebration. Being one of the must-visit Bangkok tourist attractions, don't be surprised when the streets are always packed with people.

(Photo by Tktktk)

Chinatown - Yaowarat Road

The hub of Chinatown is Thanon Yaowarat, often known as Yaowarat Road. The vibrant design, complete with neon signs and large Chinese characters will transport visitors to a classic Hong Kong street. Hundreds of delicious food stalls and restaurants, retail venues, and the lively, electric atmosphere fill the streets from daylight to night.

(Photo by Lei Xu)

Bangkok Ocean world

Come and observe the magnificent marine life swimming around, above, and beneath you in one of the must-visit Bangkok tourist attractions. 30,000 marine and freshwater species swim in their unique, customized aquariums beneath the Siam Paragon mall. This aquatic wonderland has the size of three Olympic swimming pools and is divided into seven unique exhibits. 

(Photo by Presse750)

Bang Krachao

Tucked away within the enormous metropolis of Bangkok, Bang Krachao is a man-made island encircled by the Chao Praya river. Every weekend, nature enthusiasts and those looking to escape Bangkok's hustle and bustle go to this urban sanctuary. Bang Krachao is known as Bangkok's green lung because of its abundance of tamarind, mangrove, and palm trees, which appear to gobble up the city's pollution. It's a tranquil natural environment in the middle of one of the world's busiest cities.

(Photo by David Bokuchava)

Bangkok started off as a modest trading post and port settlement on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River about 200 years ago. Even though the city is modern now, the majesty and glory of its illustrious past still reign, and travelers are lucky to visit a city that is able to balance the two aspects harmoniously. These must-visit Bangkok tourist attractions will surely provide you with a deeper insight into the city and probably some suggestions for your next trip to this amazing city. Contact us now for more details.