15 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand for First-Time Visitors
Welcome to Thailand! There is so many things to do in Bangkok!
Hey fella(s)! Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand! There is overwhelming amount of things to do in Bangkok such as exploring ancient golden temples and traditional floating markets to sampling Michelin street food, vibing at rooftop bars, shopping at night markets or luxury malls, and getting lost in hidden local neighborhoods.
If it’s your first time here well you’re in luck because I wrote this lengthy (and informative) article just for you! This guide covers the best things to do in Bangkok for first-time visitors along with some helpful insider tips from a local (me) so you can experience the city without wasting time figuring everything out yourself!
So let’s get to it!
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Bangkok, Capital of the Land of Smiles
Bangkok is a wonderful city to explore, a contrast of modern and traditional
Bangkok has a rich history, and its districts offer completely differing experiences. You might’ve heard that temples and insane nightlife is synonymous with this city but in reality, there is so much to do in Bangkok, this vibrant capital of the “Land of Smiles” is filled to the brim with activities and experiences that’s right for every kind of traveler.
It’s a city where golden temples sit beside modern skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls are next to local street food stalls, and old neighborhoods that holds some of the worlds best street food. Chill, fast-paced, chaotic, charming, Bangkok has it all.
You can spend the morning exploring famous temples like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, eat street food in Chinatown by night, go cafe hopping around Old Town, shop at massive malls like Siam Paragon, or relax with a traditional Thai massage after a long day.
Areas like Sukhumvit are known for nightlife and rooftop bars, while neighborhoods like Song Wat and Rattanakosin offer a more local and cultural side of the city.
Bangkok can feel chaotic at first, but once you settle into the rhythm of the city, it becomes incredibly fun to explore.
Quick Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bangkok
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1. Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun
The famous Wat Pho, temple of the reclining Buddha
One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to explore and discover the hundreds of temples this city has to offer and there are over 400 temples in Bangkok! Thailand is of course a Buddhist country so the temples here are really important, culturally and historically.
The architecture of these larger temples in Thailand are also really impressive, with gold accenting, intricate curvatures and carvings, and masterful pieces of traditional art. Quite the spectacle and a lot of those gorgeous temples are found in Bangkok.
While 400 temples does sounds daunting, as a first time visitor to Bangkok, let’s just explore the 4 main ones. I’ll go over them briefly…
Grand Palace - Not a temple but an important landmark. As the name suggests, Once the home of the Thai royal family, The Grand Palace is easily one of the most impressive attractions in Bangkok. The golden spires, intricate details, and the sheer level of craftsmanship, all showcases the beauty of luxury Thai architecture.
Wat Phra Kaew - Located inside the Grand Palace, this temple is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha, and it’s one of the most important religious sites in Thailand.
Wat Pho - Also known as the temple of the reclining Buddha, famous for its well… Reclining Buddha. Also the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage, and a place where you can learn its techniques.
Wat Arun - A temple famed for its spires that reaches up to the sky. I recommend coming here during the late evening or night when the lights of temple shine.
During the night, Wat Arun is lit up by thousands of LED lights
These temples are all located in the same general area, except Wat Arun, you’ll need to cross the Chao Phraya River to get there. So I’d say you can cover these major Bangkok landmarks in half a day.
Now, quick tip, while you can visit all these places on your own, it honestly gets overwhelming with the heat, crowds, and figuring out logistics. I’d highly recommend checking out this Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tourit’s one of the best Bangkok cultural experiences that’s actually worth paying for. It saves you a tone of time, and it includes a local English speaking guide who shares some incredible history and knowledge about these sacred landmarks.
And if you go time for more temples, or are hankering for more Buddhism in your life, Wat Saket (temple of the golden mount)is my personal favorite one to visit and explore.
Oh and one last thing, while this is one of the best things to do in Bangkok, note that if you ever encounter a TukTuk driver or a Taxi driver that says the “Grand Palace is closed” they are lying. It’s a common scam to bring you to another place for them to get commissions. The Grand Palace is OPEN EVERYDAY from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
2. Eat Thai Street Food at Yaowarat Chinatown
As chaotic as it may seem, Yaowarat Chinatown is the epicenter for Thai street food!
My favorite things to do in Bangkok is to EAT! And there is no better place for incredible Thai street food than at Yaowarat Road, Bangkok’s Chinatown, and the largest Chinatown in the world!
As the name suggests, the street food at Yaowarat is a aromatic stewing melting pot of local Thai and Chinese flavors. The main road is lined with hundreds of street food stalls and vendors, and if you venture to the branching smaller roads you’ll discover even more deliciously tasty secrets. If you’re a first time visitor to Bangkok, a night of eating at Yaowarat is non-negotiable!
There are so many things to eat in Yaowarat, so just to give you a little heads up here are some dishes you should be looking out for:
Kway Jub - Rolled rice noodles in a clear peppery broth with various pork meat toppings
Yaowarat Toasted Buns - Soft pillowy buns toasted on the outside, and stuffed with sweet sticky custardy fillings, there is one famous stall with the yellow banner, can’t miss it.
Fish Maw Soup - A thick Chinese style soup made with Fish maw
Patongko - Thai style Chinese fried donuts with dipping sauces like condensed milk and pandan
Oyster Omelette - An omlette made of eggs, rice flower batter, and oysters. Extra crunchy edges and gooey center.
One of the must-eat dishes here, Kway Chap rolled noodles
Alright notice how I mentioned “a night of eating” While you could explore Yaowarat during the day time (which is a completely different vibe). The road comes alive during the night with bright neon signs, flames emnating from the countless street-side woks, and sounds of the various vendors and patrons all shouting over eachother…
Now here’s the move I’d recommend, explore Chinatown as part of a Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour. You get to ride the iconic TukTuk around the city at night, passing by famous landmarks and stopping at multiple food spots including Yaowarat.
It’s one of my favorite things to do in Bangkok during the night, food + sightseeing, and all aboard one of the most iconic modes of transport in the East
Nothing could be better… Ok, this next activity might be…
3. Watch a Muay Thai Show at Rajadamnern Stadium
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing 2 dudes duking it out
Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and no doubt you’ve seen it in action on TV or on some Instagram reel while doom scrolling…
Now I have to admit something, I am born and raised in Thailand but I have never been to a Muay Thai fight… Watching a Muay Thai match at Rajadamnern Stadium has always been a touristy thing that locals rarely ever do, I know shocker…
So it was even more of a shocker when I went to spectate my first Muay Thai fight and it was an absolute Knock out! Sorry for the pun, but this is literally one of my new favorite things to do in Bangkok, or just in general.
The experience is wholly different from watching a match on the TV. Firstly, not only do you get to see 2 dudes duking it, but it’s all about the atmosphere inside the stadium. If you didn’t know, Rajadamnern Stadium is the world’s first Muay Thai stadium and one of two modern stadiums hosting matches.
These Muay Thai fights almost feel ceremonial, but they’re not fake like TV wrestling!
The atmosphere inside the stadium is intense and downright electric. You’re immediately hit with the rhythmic sound of live sarama music (traditional pre-fight music) echoing through the space, setting a hypnotic pace for the fights.
The crowd is a mix of passionate locals, seasoned gamblers and betters, and wide-eyed tourists like you. Every strike, kick, and clinch draws legions of roars, gasps, from the crowds.
Shows are hosted everyday and you can check on their official website for the schedule to see who is fighting on that day, plus you can grab yourself tickets on their site as well. There are different seating arrangements to choose form so pick one that’s right for you.
But I got a little special offer for you. If you purchase a ticket via Klook (official seller), they have special Klook exclusive packages such as ringside seating arrangement + food (hotdog) and soft drinks included, all for a special price.
If this sounds fun to you (and it is) then attending a Muay Thai match at the legendary Rajadamnern Stadium should be high on your list of things to do in Bangkok!
4. Visit a Traditional Bangkok Floating Market
A humble scene at a local Thai floating market , vendors still serve foods from boats like the old days
Another quintessential thing to do in Bangkok is to visit one of the many floating markets in (or around) the city. Back then the main method of transportation in Bangkok was via canals and waterways, there were no roads. These markets are highly popular during the weekend and served as places for locals to purchase fresh produce and to hang out with some delicious street food.
Nowadays, floating markets are a little more touristy with a lot more emphasis on serving delicious street food, selling souvenirs, places to relax with a cup of coffee, and activities like Thai massage, and fairground games. But heavy emphasis on Thai street food here.
Such as the iconic boat noodles, grilled skewers, coconut pancakes, mango sticky rice, and even freshly made coconut ice cream served right from a boat. Beyond food, you’ll also find local goods like handmade souvenirs, fruits, spices, and traditional snacks.
At places like Damnoen Saduak, there can be some traffic jams along the canals…
There are plenty of Floating Markets in Bangkok here are some of the most famous ones that I recommend you visit:
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market - Most famous, busy canals filled with vendors selling food and souvenirs from wooden boats, though it’s quite touristy.
Amphawa Floating Market - A more local, weekend-focused market with a relaxed vibe, great seafood, and canal side dining rather than boats packed tightly together.
Taling Chan Floating Market - A smaller, more authentic market closer to the city, known for its laid-back atmosphere, affordable grilled seafood, and fewer crowds.
But my personal favorite is Baan Nam Pheung, I love this market due to it being more local, very little tourists here, and the atmosphere is also very chill, feels like a slow paced, tight nit of community of friendly vendors. If you want more information, you can check out my blog post on the Best Floating Markets in Bangkok.
Getting to these floating markets can be a bit of a hassle as the best ones are located on the outskirts of Bangkok, So that is why I recommend this Bangkok Damnoen Saduak Market Tour. It includes hotel pickup, smooth transport, and a guided visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market as well as the Maeklong Railway Market, two of the most popular local markets in Bangkok. Spots fill up fast, so check availability and book your tour here.
Despite the “touristy” nature of it all, these Bangkok floating markets are a lot of fun to explore and should be at the top of your list of things to do in Bangkok!
5. Explore the Bangkok Street Food Night Markets
One of my favorite street food night markets in Bangkok, Jodd Fairs
On the subject of markets and Thai street food, if you prefer a land-based market then eating through one (or a few) of the many street food night markets in Bangkok should definitely be on your list of things to do in Bangkok.
Most of these markets come alive after sunset (around 6PM), and they come in all sizes, small dozen stall markets such as the newly opened Johnny Market in Ekkamai, or sprawling markets complete with a small picnic area and a castle like the ultra popular Train Night Market DanNeramit.
Here are some recommendations for street food night markets in Bangkok in addition to the previous 2 that I’ve mentioned:
Save One Go - A newer, local-focused night market known for affordable street food, big portions, and a laid-back vibe away from heavy tourist crowds, quite far away from the city center though...
SW1 Market - A smaller, modern night market with a clean setup, trendy food stalls, and a mix of Thai snacks and international bites.
Chatuchak Weekend Market - A massive and iconic market with thousands of stalls, where you can find everything from street food and desserts to clothes and souvenirs.
Jodd Fairs - One of Bangkok’s most popular night markets, packed with viral street food, seafood stalls, and a lively, youthful atmosphere.
Train Night Market Ratchada - Famous for its colorful tent setup and huge variety of street food, bars, and shopping, making it one of the most vibrant night markets in the city.
Each one has a slightly different vibe, some markets are modern, some are retro, some are artsy. What I usually recommend is going in with no plan, just walk around, and get lost. If you want a full breakdown of the best street food night markets in Bangkok check out my blog post here.
The main highlight of these night markets are of course the plentiful offerings of Thai street food!
Also if you have time, you can check out my YouTube video above where I explored the Save One Go night market eating some seafood street food.
Of course, I cannot recommend everything because there is A LOT of foods to try, So here are some dishes that I think are quintessential Thai night market foods:
Leng - A relatively new Thai street food creation, a literal mountain of tender stewed pork spine surrounded by a spicy and sour soup.
Crispy Pork Belly - Commonly found everywhere, pieces of tender, juicy and crunchy pork belly served with a sweet dark soy sauce or a spicy and sour seafood sauce.
Khanom Krok - Coconut griddle cakes, crispy shell with a warm and gooey coconut custard interior, topped with green onions, corn, or other toppings.
Fermented Sashimi - Known as “seafood dong” A Korean inspired dish or seafood sashimi (commonly salmon or shrimp) marinated in sweet soy sauce and chili.
Goong Chae Nam Pla - Raw shrimp doused in a creamy sour and spicy seafood sauce topped with fresh herbs and a generous helping of fried shallots.
Mala Skewers - A Chinese influenced dish, grilled skewers of proteins and vegetables brushed with a sweet malt chili sauce and dusted with dried mala chili powder.
Mango Sticky Rice - Juicy mangos with warm sweet coconut stick rice, topped with coconut cream.
If you love food like I do, make sure you have an afternoon/evening free to explore a street food night market. It’s one of the best things to do in Bangkok for foodies like you and I.
Check Out the Thailand Food Map
Noodles aren’t enough to satisfy your cravings for Thai street food? Well don’t worry, my Thailand Food Map gives you instant access to 300+ must-eat street food stalls, legendary local restaurants, and hidden gems across the country, personally recommended by me! You can simply open the curated map in Google Maps and follow the pins to enjoy a smooth, self-guided Thai street food adventure!
As a bonus, you’ll also get:
an Introduction to Thai Food Guide
A curated list of 100 Thai dishes you must try
A practical Thai Language Handbook
6. Visit a Few of the Best Rooftop Bars in Bangkok
End your day sipping on a few cocktails high above the world
You might be wondering, what about nightlife? Well you’ve probably heard that Bangkok is synonymous with bars and nightclubs dancing ladies, and shady umm shows… But one aspect of Bangkok nightlife that often gets overlooked is the plentiful (and I mean PLENTIFUL) rooftop bars dotting the city skyline.
One of the best things to do in Bangkok after a long day out in the sweltering heat is to enjoy a fanciful cocktail amongst the clouds.
These rooftop bars are spread across the many luxury hotels and high rise buildings. Some are elegant and relaxed with slow live jazz playing in the background like the SEEN Restaurant & Bar, while others feel more like rooftop clubs with hip hop DJs and a lively party atmosphere such as Pastel. Either way, it’s one of the best ways to experience Bangkok nightlife while escaping the traffic and chaos below.
Some of these places like the Akara Sky Hanuman serve some beautiful cocktails
I mean what can be better than good food, good drinks, and stunning views? Although I will say that prices are quite high, at all of these places you can expect a drink to be around 400 THB (12.40 USD), cheap for western tourists maybe, but expensive for Bangkok… And what about the prices of the food? Yeah expect to spend a couple thousand Bahts by the end of the night…
Still, it is a special activity and one worth splurging on (in moderation of course), and even if you’re not a huge nightlife person I think it’s still a fun thing to do in Bangkok. And with many of Bangkok’s luxury hotels featuring rooftop bars it’s hard to skip this activity. I am not a huge nightlife person myself and I quite enjoy a glass of Negroni while vibing to live jazz high up in the clouds.
Here are a few rooftop bars in Bangkok that I recommend:
Pastel - A stylish rooftop spot known for Mediterranean food, sunset cocktails, and a hyper atmosphere with panoramic views over Sukhumvit.
Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar - One of Bangkok’s most popular rooftop bars, famous for its 360-degree skyline views, DJ music, and lively nightlife vibe.
Akara Sky Hanuman - A newer luxury rooftop venue combining cultural Thai-inspired design, creative cocktails, live entertainment, and dramatic city views.
Spectrum Lounge & Bar - An upscale rooftop bar with a more refined atmosphere, offering craft cocktails, live music, and high-quality dining above the Bangkok skyline.
If you want a full breakdown of the best spots to visit, dress codes, prices, and which rooftop bars are best for different vibes, check out my full guide to the best rooftop bars in Bangkok.
7. Go on a Luxury Dinner Cruise Along the Chao Phraya River
There are so many cool landmarks dotted along the Chao Phraya River
Sticking to the theme of nightlife, one of the more memorable things to do in Bangkok that I enjoy, especially for a more romantic night out is to take a Luxury Dinner Cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
Bangkok looks completely different from the water, temples glow in the distance, skyscrapers light up the skyline, and famous landmarks like Wat Arun slowly pass by as you with her stunning LED lights shining through the dark sky as cruise through the city. It’s a much more relaxed experience compared to the busy streets below, especially after a long day of braving the Bangkok sun.
I honestly thought it was a touristy thing to do in Bangkok (and it is) but this activity was suggested to me by a friend who brought his girlfriend to celebrate her birthday and he wholeheartedly recommended the cruise.
When the sun sets, there’s nothing quite like sailing through the city on a luxury cruise
This is a luxury 2 hour long 5 star dinner cruise where the dinner is an international buffet that includes seafood, steak, Thai dishes, desserts, drinks, traditional Thai performances, and live music, all on an open-air rooftop deck where you can enjoy the scenic landmarks of Bangkok as you float along the largest river in Thailand.
It is certainly a romantic experience so I recommend you bring your SO, but the vibe isn’t overly formal (which imo is a good thing), that’s why in addition to couples, these cruises are popular with families and even solo travelers.
Honestly, if it’s your first time visiting Bangkok, I think this is one of those experiences worth booking in advance. It’s easy, comfortable, and gives you a different perspective of the city without needing to plan anything yourself. You can check availability for this luxury Bangkok dinner cruise via the GetYourGuide widget below. Be sure to book fast as sunset and evening slots tend to fill up quickly.
8. Attend a Traditional Thai Food Cooking Class
It’s important to understand the ingredients you are using when cooking Thai food!
Thailand is known to have some of the world’s best street food, now what if you were able to bring the taste of that back home? Instead of just eating Thai food, one of the more popular and rewarding things to do in Bangkok for foodies is joining a traditional Thai cooking class such as the Tingly Thai Cooking Class.
These classes are designed to be beginner-friendly, so even if you don’t cook much at home, it’s easy to follow along and enjoy the experience. You’ll get to learn not only the recipes and the cooking techniques but you’ll also be go on a quick class field trip to a local fresh market to purchase AND learn about local ingredients.
For these class the dishes you’ll be making can vary but for Tingly Thai specifically, you’ll learn how to cook 4 dishes which include: Tom Yum Koong (spicy and sour soup with shrimp), Pad Thai Koong (stir fried noodles with shrimp), and Khao Neaw Mamuang (mango sticky rice), and depending on the day, either Gaeng Kiew Wan (green curry), Panang Gai (red curry with chicken), or Gaeng Massaman (massaman curry).
We are all proud of our Pad Thai!
I know it’s a bit unorthodox to be joining a cooking class on your first time visit to Bangkok, but if you enjoy Thai food (and I know you do), then the best souvenir you can bring back home is the knowledge and ability to cook these dishes, not only for yourself but to share with your friends and family as well.
If you enjoy Thai food even a little bit, I think this is one of the most worthwhile things to do in Bangkok and a great break from the usual sightseeing routine.
You can book a class via the GetYourGuide widget below. These Thai cooking classes welcome everyone, and the instructor is English speaking of course. The class takes about 3 hours and it’s a pretty small class with less than a dozen students per session, so book a sot quick before it fills up!
9. Try Some Michelin Food in Bangkok
A delicious bowl of Kway Chap noodles and crispy pork belly at Nai Ek Roll Noodles
On the subject of Thai street food, other fun things to do in Bangkok for food lovers like you and I, is to explore the numerous Michelin rated restaurants in Bangkok.
What I wan to emphasis is that most of the “Michelin” spots are MICHELIN BIB GOURMAND, I repeat, these are NOT Michelin Starred. Of course Michelin stared spots exist but Influencers are always exaggerating and lying about this fact… Nevertheless, these are still highly regarded titles in the culinary world and is an indicator of some damn good food!
In Bangkok, there a plenty of Michelin Thai street food restaurants to try, below are some of my recommendations (all are bib gourmand unless stated):
Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu - A popular spot known for smoky wok-fried pad thai topped with high-quality ingredients.
Urai Braised Goose - A long-running local restaurant famous for tender braised goose served with rich herbal gravy.
Rung Rueang Pork Noodle - One of Bangkok’s most famous noodle shops, loved for its comforting pork broth, handmade fish balls, and juicy minced pork toppings.
Maan Muang - A Northern Thai restaurant serving flavorful regional dishes like khao soi and sai ua, one of my favorite restaurants in Bangkok.
K. Panich - A legendary dessert shop best known for its award-winning mango sticky rice made with fragrant coconut milk and perfectly ripe mangoes.
Jay Fai - 1 Star Michelin street food stall. To be honest, not very good and wayyy overpriced (I think the Michelin status has gotten into her head) but I’ve included it because it’s so famous.
For more recommendations check out the official Michelin website. Of course there are also actual 1 to 3 Michelin Star restaurants in Bangkok (41 to be exact), but those are more upscaled dining experiences.
If you’re a foodie and are looking for unforgettable things to do in Bangkok, this Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk is honestly one of the best ways to experience Bangkok’s street food culture! Cruising on Thailand’s iconic rickshaw and eating the best mouthwatering street food? street food? What’s not to love? You can book the tour here or via the GetYourGuide widget above, and you better hurry, spots fill up fast!
10. Go Thrifting at Chatuchak Market!
Chatuchak weekend market looks like pixels on a screen
One of the funnest things to do in Bangkok for those of you looking to go on a bargain hunt, is to go thrifting at the LARGEST weekend market in Thailand, the Chatuchak Market!
With over 15,000 individual stalls spread out across a huge maze-like area, there is no shortage of things to purchase here. To put things into perspective, you’ll need to spend literally a handful of days here in order to see everything that Chatuchak has to offer!
Everything you need from vintage style fashion, streetwear, handmade knick knacks and leather accessories, antique sculptures and artworks, furniture even, sneakers, vinyl records and cassette tapes, plants, pots, souvenirs, and of course STREET FOOD.
You cannot forget about the plentiful amounts of Thai street food that is littered throughout the alleys of Chatuchak market.
You can find all sorts of things at these markets, so take your time exploring
For thrifting specifically, there are entire sections dedicated to secondhand fashion and vintage pieces, and prices are usually much cheaper than what you’d pay back home or elsewhere in Bangkok…
If you plan to shop, don’t be afraid to bargain a little, There is a small bit of courtesy to bargaining, Most vendors expect some light negotiation, but keeping it friendly and respectful goes a long way. I would say only haggle in these situations:
When purchasing multiple items, for example 3 or more clothing items.
When you know that the vendor is %100 overcharging you, and there is no sign indicating the price.
When it’s a big ticket item, like a 3,000 ฿ Vinyl record.
And even then, I don’t mean negotiating a 50% decrease, that’s just being an a**hole. I’m talking maybe 5% - 10% is still respectful.
Chatuchak Weekend Market is open Sat - Sun at 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, and cash is recommended here. Overall, if you enjoy markets, fashion, or just exploring local culture, Chatuchak is easily one of the best things to do in Bangkok for first-time visitors.
11. Go Shopping at the Many Shopping Malls in Bangkok
The most oppulent shopping mall in Bangkok, ICONSIAM
Contrasting the rustic and chaotic nature of Chatuchak market, if you're looking for more modern things to do in Bangkok, shopping at one of the many luxury shopping malls is a fun way to spend the day to beat the heat.
Bangkok is known for having some of the best shopping malls in not just Asia, but probably the entire world, and each one feels completely different. Some focus on luxury fashion and designer brands, while others are better for tech, streetwear, entertainment, or food.
Some of the most famous shopping malls in Bangkok include:
ICONSIAM - Luxury riverside mall with high-end brands, but the basement’s indoor floating market is a highlight for foodies
Siam Paragon - One of Bangkok’s most famous malls, home to brands like Gucci, Prada, Apple, and Rolex
CentralWorld - Massive lifestyle mall with fashion, restaurants, cinemas, and events, the most famous in Bangkok
MBK Center - And older mall but popular for affordable shopping, souvenirs, electronics, and streetwearA
Em District Malls - Collection (3) of stylish upscale malls in Phrom Phong known for luxury fashion, cafes, and restaurants.
The most shady shopping mall in Bangkok, MBK Center
Beyond shopping, there are plenty of those things to do in these capitalist complexes. The malls in Bangkok are packed with entertainment and food options. Things like huge food courts, international restaurants, cinemas, arcades (though these are a dying breed), rooftop bars, supermarkets, and even aquariums inside some malls such as the Siam Paragon’s Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, the largest indoor aquarium in Bangkok.
There are soooo many shopping malls in Bangkok, seriously there’s literally a new big one every other year because walking around in an air conditioned building and window shopping are the favorite pastime activities of local Bangkokians
If you want a full breakdown of where to shop and which malls are best for different styles and budgets, check out my full guide to the top shopping malls in Bangkok.
12. Go Cafe Hopping in Bangkok’s Old Town Districts
A local noodle shop in old Town Bangkok
Okay, moving on from the fast paced city life to a slower paced life in the same city… If you’re looking for a more chill things to do in Bangkok then might I recommend cafe hopping around Bangkok’s Old Town?
The area is known as Rattanakosin Island and it’s the historic and cultural center of Bangkok, it’s the same area where you’ve visited the temples I’ve mentioned at the beginning. Aside from history, you’ll find many of Bangkok’s charming neighborhoods here, and there are plenty of cafes to be discovered within the winding roads and alleyways.
What I really like about cafe hopping here is the mix of old and new. Some cafes are traditional family-run coffee shops that have been serving Thai-style coffee and simple breakfasts since the 1950s, while others are modern 3rd wave specialty cafes tucked inside renovated heritage buildings, serving up the matcha lattes with almond milk, 1 molecule of sugar, cherry wood smoked essence, or whatever is popular nowadays.
One of my favorite cafes in old town, specialising in pourovers, Mother Roaster Prathu Phi
While I do enjoy myself a performative cup of cappuccino from time to time, I can’t deny that a traditional glass of ice cold O-liang (traditional Thai coffee made with spices) is just what my body Neds after a long day of exploring the sweltering hot streets of Bangkok
Some cafes worth that I recommend are checking out in Bangkok Old Town include:
Mother Roaster - Trendy specialty coffee shop hidden inside an old building with great coffee and vintage vibes
BaanRao22 - A small cafe serving up traditional Thai coffee drinks AND Khanom Tokyo (rolled pancakes with filling)
Suddenly Cafe - A modern trendy cafe with vintage style decorations
On Lok Yun - Old-school Bangkok breakfast spot serving classic Thai-style toast, eggs, and coffee for decades
Honestly, this part of Bangkok feels completely different from the shopping malls and nightlife areas, which is why I think it’s one of the most underrated things to do in Bangkok for first-time visitors. If you’d like recommendations for more trendy cafes, check out my cafe hopping blog post.
13. Explore the Trendy and Vintage Song Wat Road
I love Songwat Road, so charming with that nostalgic vibe
While in Rattanakosin Island, if you’re in a retro/vintage sort of vibe, might I suggest you visit the newly trending Songwat Road? Located near Bangkok’s Chinatown along the Chao Phraya River, one of my favorite things to do in Bangkok’s old town area is tpend a few hours just perusing around this charming neighborhood.
Originally built during the reign of King Rama V as part of Bangkok’s historic trading district. Over the past few years, the area has been completely gentrified from an old warehouse and wholesale neighborhood into one of Bangkok’s coolest creative districts.
The charm of Songwat Road is it’s vintage atmosphere, here is where you can find beautifully restored shophouses filled with speciality coffee shops, trendy restaurants and shops selling vintage paraphernalia like clothes, vinyl records and cassettes, and vintage cameras.
Along the road, on flat walls and on the sides of buildings are also artworks by various local artists that adds to the charm of this nostalgic street.
A juicy plate of braised goose at Urai Braised Goose
Since I am a big foodie, there are also plenty of great eats to be found in Songwat, as usual here are some of my recommendations for cafes and restaurants:
BAD POUTINE - One of the only places in Bangkok serving the iconic Canadian comfort food of crispy fries loaded with rich gravy and cheese curds.
Song Viet - A stylish Vietnamese restaurant known for fresh pho, banh mi, and beautifully presented dishes in a cozy cafe atmosphere.
Rong Klan Nuea - A popular restaurant serving braised beef noodles, and rice. Try adding their Patongo bread sticks into the noodles.
Lim Lao Ngow Fishball Noodle - A Michelin Bib Gourmand noodle shop famous for its handmade fish balls.
LOCAL BOYS COFFEE CO. SONG WAT - A trendy specialty coffee cafe known for quality espresso drinks
Urai Braised Goose - A long-running local favorite serving tender braised goose in a rich herbal sauce with classic Chinese-Thai flavors.
This isn’t a comprehensive list of the best places to eat in Songwat but it should get you covered for one day exploring the area.
While in all honesty, the area has become very touristy in recent years, there is no doubt that the charm of years gone by still remains within the renovated townhouses of Songwat Road. A lot of locals and younger creatives now come here for cafe hopping, photography, and vintage shopping. If you enjoy neighborhoods with character, exploring this area is easily one of the most interesting things to do in Bangkok right now.
14. Visit the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World Aquarium
The iconic glass tunnel at Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
Back to modern Bangkok, the areas with the air conditioning. If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Bangkok, then Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is a fun break from temples, street food markets, and the city heat.
It’s one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia, with sharks, manta rays, penguins, jellyfish, and thousands of marine animals spread across different themed zones. The biggest highlight the being an underwater glass tunnel where fish and sharks swim directly above your head.
Even as an adult, it’s surprisingly entertaining to walk through, and it’s quite a romantic spot too, I went here on a date with my girlfriend during our university days and it was quite a magical and wholesome experience as we walked through the dimly lit zones with only the blue waters beaming light onto our faces.
Sort of romantic wouldn’t you say? Great place for date
One of the best things about Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is the location, it’s directly underneath Siam Paragon in the middle of Bangkok’s main shopping district. That means you can easily combine the aquarium with shopping, cafes, restaurants, or even a movie afterward. Siam Paragon itself is one of Bangkok’s most famous luxury malls, so it’s an easy place to spend the morning, or afternoon, or whenever you’re visiting.
I’d definitely recommend booking your aquarium ticket online in advance instead of buying at the counter. Prices are usually cheaper online, and it saves time when the entrance gets busy during weekends and holidays. You can grab tickets through Klook, which makes the whole process quick and easy before your visit.
15. Have a Relaxing Thai Massage in Bangkok
Don’t worry, your spine won’t break, though you might feel a bit sore afterwards
And finally, the most relaxing things to do in Bangkok that every first time visitor MUST TRY at least once is getting a traditional Thai massage. Unlike a typical oil massage, Thai massage focuses more on stretching, pressure points, and deep muscle work, almost like assisted yoga.
Therapists use their hands, elbows, knees, and even feet to help release tension throughout your body. After walking around Bangkok all day in the heat, your legs and back will probably need it anyway.
A proper Thai massage can be feel life-changing. The first time I had a good one in Bangkok, I walked out feeling lighter like all the bad energy and pains from my body had been eradicated. It’s one of those experiences where you don’t realize how tense your body is until afterward.
One of the best places for a Thai Massage with multiple branches throughout Thailand
Bangkok has massage shops everywhere ranging from budget local spots to luxury spa experiences, and prices are usually much cheaper compared to Western countries. Sessions can last as short as 30 minutes but usually a proper experience will take 2 hours.
BUT one thing I’d recommend is doing a little research before choosing where to go. We all heard of these “happy ending” massages and yes they do exist and are surprisingly quite common and out in the open…
If the front of the store has clear windows, the masseuses looks more mature, prices are fairly cheap, then it’s probably a REAL. Thai massage shopBut if the windows are tinted black with no one sitting outside then AVOID, unless you’re one of those people who can’t get girlfriends back home.
Most massage shops in Bangkok are completely professional, but there are also some places aimed more at nightlife tourism than actual wellness. A quick check of reviews, pricing, and the overall atmosphere usually makes it
For a safe bet, Health Land is a reputable spa brand with many branches throughout Bangkok. Book a session, relax your body, and enjoy the atmosphere and the smells of lavender, and I’ll guarantee it’se of the best things in Bangkok you’ll do.
Where to Stay in Bangkok?
If it’s your first time visiting Bangkok, I recommended staying in the Sukhumvit area which is one of the best areas to stay for due to the plentiful shopping malls, rooftop bars, nightlife, and restaurants.
Also easy access to the BTS skytrain and the MRT underground metro, cannot stress that enough, you don’t want to find yourself stuck in a taxi in traffic, or having ot trudge through the un-walkable sidewalks in the scorching heat… Plus the BTS/MRT connects you to all of the best things to do in Bangkok.
Here are a few hotel recommendations for different budgets:
Marriott Marquis Queens Park ($$$) - Iconic luxury hotel in the middle of Sukhumvit known for world-class service and comfort
Grande Centre Point Terminal 21 ($$) - Excellent location connected to Terminal 21 mall and close to BTS/MRT transport
La Petite Salil Sukhumvit 11 ($) - Popular budget-friendly hostel/hotel with a social atmosphere near Siam shopping district
If you want more options, check out my full guides on the best hotels in Bangkok and the best hostels in Bangkok (internal links), where I break down the best neighborhoods and places to stay for different travel styles and budgets.
Download My 5 Day Bangkok Itinerary!
Planning a trip can get overwhelming fast, especially with how many amazing things to do in Bangkok there are. That’s why I put together a detailed 5 Day Bangkok Itinerary eBook covering temples, street food spots, rooftop bars, markets, cafes, hidden gems, transport tips, and local recommendations to help you experience the city without wasting time figuring everything out yourself. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want a balance of food, culture, shopping, and nightlife while keeping the itinerary realistic and easy to follow.
Or get it completely FREE by subscribing to my newsletter via the email form below. I’ll send the guide directly to your inbox along with extra Bangkok travel tips, food recommendations, future travel guides from Feastography, AND itineraries for other countries that I’ve been to.
If you want a ready-to-use Bangkok travel plan that makes exploring the city easier, this guide will save you a lot of time.
Bangkok Thailand Travel Tips
Don’t be afraid to stop at a shop if it interests you, there is so much to see in Bangkok
Bangkok can feel overwhelming at first, busy streets, heavy traffic, endless food stalls, and so many different neighborhoods, but that’s honestly part of what makes the city exciting. Once you understand how to get around and know a few basic tips, exploring all the best things to do in Bangkok becomes much easier and way more enjoyable. Here are a few simple travel tips that’ll help make your first trip smoother.
Use the BTS and MRT whenever possible - Bangkok traffic can get extremely bad, especially during rush hour.
Carry cash - Smaller street food stalls, markets, local shops, and especially taxi/motorbike drivers often don’t accept cards.
Dress respectfully for temples - Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting places like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Stay hydrated - Bangkok is hot and humid year-round, so keep water with you while exploring.
Download Grab - It’s the easiest app for booking taxis and avoiding language barriers or overcharging.
Don’t be afraid of street food - Busy stalls with lots of locals are usually the best places to eat.
Go out early in the day - Popular attractions and markets get crowded and much hotter later in the afternoon.
Watch out for common tourist scams - Especially tuk tuk drivers claiming temples are “closed.”
Get a Thai massage - Your feet and legs will thank you after walking around Bangkok all day.
Plan your neighborhoods wisely – Bangkok is huge, so group nearby attractions together to save time traveling around the city.
Looking for More Things to Do in Thailand?
It’s not everyday you see a monk in a local market
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World - Encounter over 400 marine species and 30000 creatures
Floating Markets Day Tour - Tour 3 major markets: Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong, Amphawa
Safari World Bangkok - Meet exotic and friendly animals at Bangkok’s animal kingdom
Discounted Tickets - Browse a variety of attractions, tours, and transports all for a great price
Useful Resources for Traveling in Thailand
Tourism Information - All the information you need when traveling in Thailand
4G/5G SIM Card - 8 days, 15GB, Important for staying connected while in Thailand
Private Airport Transfers - Transfer from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city without worry
Best Bangkok Hostels- A list of the best hostels to stay for cheap and meet new friends
Check Out My Other Thailand Blog Posts!
5 Day Bangkok itinerary: The Complete Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors
Best Food Tours in Bangkok Worth Booking For First Time Thai Foodies!
5 BEST Bangkok Floating Markets for Foodies, #5 is a Hidden Gem!
Top Chiang Mai Food Tours to Try Amazing Northern Thai Street Food!
The Foodie’s Guide to Thai Street Food Dishes to Try in Bangkok!
Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide - Thailand’s Family Friendly City of Sin!
Ultimate Koh Samet Travel Guide: Things to Do, Accommodations, Transportation!
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