Things to do

22 Iconic Things To Do In Bangkok This Year

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Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and this vibrant city is where ancient customs mix with modern innovations.

It is a picture gallery of beautiful temples, colorful markets, opulent shopping centers, beautiful parks, and yummy street foods.

This beautiful city Bangkok is perfect for everyone, be it a history lover, a shopping freak, a food lover, or just a tourist wanting to experience culture.

Here, in this article, you will learn 22 best things to do in Bangkok if you decide to visit this year:

1. Visit Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho)

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The first temple in this list is Wat Pho in Bangkok. You will be mesmerized to see statues such as the Mother of Pearl in the temple as this will leave you in awe.

Another attraction is the fact that it also accommodated Thailand's first public university and that Thai massage is offered at the temple. It has a calm and quiet environment surrounded by stunning layers made up of stupas and colorful paintings that translate Buddhist stories and parables.

There are some small groves as well as praying places that can be seen at the territory of the temple.

2. Explore The Chatuchak Weekend Market

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Also known as JJ Market, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest store and must-visit for shoppers and culture lovers.

It is the largest outdoor market in the world with an area of 3.5 hectares or almost forty-seven football fields and with more than 15000 stalls.

It has these divided into categories to assist the vast variety of goods available for sale such as clothing and accessories, jewelry, shoes, antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts, homewares, garden items, and even plants.

To thoroughly appreciate the market, visit it during the morning or in the afternoon because it is less hot then.

3. Shop At Siam Paragon

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Siam Paragon is Bangkok's premier shopping complex which presents a mix of supreme shopping, dining, and leisure facilities. It boasts flagship stores of some international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and so on as well as an excellent gourmet market.

Also, you will be happy to know that there is easy access to Southeast Asia's largest aquarium called SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World which is located inside the mall.

The grand architectural designs and even the interior design create good impressions on those who do not like to roam much in the malls.

4. Admire The Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)

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Another top thing to do in Bangkok is visit the Temple of Dawn. This temple sits gracefully on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River and the central prang or tower is complimented by porcelain and seashell art.

The climax of the visitor's tours is climbing the steep steps of the main prang that provides great views of the river and Bangkok in the background, especially in the early morning or around sunset.

Close by is where you will see cafeterias and local markets that can be of good interest for a leisurely visit.

5. Step Into History At The Grand Palace

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The Grand Palace is indeed a magnificent complex that attracts tourists today so much. Originally built in 1782, it was the residence of the Thai Kings and had been the headquarters of the government for 150 years.

Not surprisingly, the complex comprises the gastronomer Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to the jade Buddha statue.

Tourism is attracted by various features such as the gilded features in the architecture, colorful murals, and astounding workmanship in and around the palace. Some are even available with a professional guide who tells stories and relates the history of the building.

6. Visit The Jim Thompson House

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Jim Thompson House is one of the crown jewels of Bangkok, being a center for displaying traditional Thai houses and arts. Set in natural greenery backgrounds, this was the home of Jim Thompson, an American who brought back the lost silk industry in Thailand.

The inside also boasts exquisite sculptures and artifacts from Southeast Asia and some of the finest sculptures of the Buddha and rich silks.

You can choose guided tours, the guides will make you better understand how and why Thompson vanished, and how he continued to shape the Thai art scene long after his disappearance.

7. Stroll Through Lumpini Park

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Lumpini Park is an excellent place to relax and have some fun with your friends and family. The park is over 142 acres and provides stroll paths, paddle boats on the park's beautiful lake, and numerous areas for picnicking.

Morning specifically dawn is very active with people doing their exercises such as tai chi, jogging, or group aerobics. Also, while in there, look out for monitor lizards moving around.

This park is an ideal place of interest for tourists and local people as it is free from rush and natural scenic beauty. So, this is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok.

8. Immerse Yourself In Chinatown

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Chinatown in Bangkok is perhaps one of the largest in the world and is full of energy, color, and fantastic eateries. Located at Yaowarat Road, this area changes its face at night and turns into a place filled with various food stalls from dim sum to roasted squid.

In addition to food, you have a wonderful time discovering the elaborate Chinese temples, gold shops, and traditional shops selling herbs. The Chinese New Year adds a little bit of spirit when celebrations include dragon dances and flashy lights and colors to brighten up the streets.

9. Indulge In Street Food

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The presence of street food is perhaps one reason that Bangkok has one of the most exciting food experiences in the world. From hot and sour tom yum soup to scrumptious Thai pancakes, every item is packed with awesome Thailand taste.

Eateries such as Sukhumvit Soi 38 or Pratunam Night Market will provide cutoffs of most kinds of food. Do not be afraid to taste different types of foods, such as fried insects. For the sweets fan, mango sticky rice and Thai milk tea are best and will satisfy any sweet tooth.

10. Take A Sunset Dinner Cruise On The Chao Phraya River

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Discover a romantic side of Bangkok with the thrilling sunset dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. On a scenic cruise along the Chaophraya River enjoy the night views and listen to Thai music and as a bonus get to taste Thai food and other World Foods with Floating Restaurants.

During the ride, the music and fresh air combined with live music make it more romantic. The whole concept is rather quiet and it is a great way to discover the beautiful aspects of Bangkok while engaging in an entertaining dinner.

11. Discover Asiatique The Riverfront

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Asiatique The Riverfront is one of the most beautiful riverside malls with attractions including Open retail and Dining. Located along the famous Chao Phraya River, they have more than 1500 shops, which sell garments, accessories, souvenirs, and distinctive services.

Any food lover would literally indulge in the numerous restaurants ranging from Thai foods to international foods.

The scenic vantage of the Ferris wheel provides beautiful views of the city skyline from other water-based shows including Muay Thai performances, cabaret shows, and others that make the place an exciting nighttime spot.

12. Explore The Museum Of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

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For artwork lovers, MOCA is a haven as the museum displays the best of modern Thai artworks. Situated on five levels, this Gravity gallery consists of more than eight hundred works of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media art that capture Thai and contemporary themes.

The design of the structures is modern, and unornamented and contributes to the artistic contemplative mood of the place. It has collections of Thai art including art pieces made by popular Thai artists, Thawan Duchanee for instance.

13. Dive Into SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

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This is among the best things to do in Bangkok with kids. The Underwater World at Bangkok which is also known as SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is located in the center of the city.

Containing thousands of specimens, this colossal aquarium includes wonderful, rather transparent tunnels through which visitors can walk under the sharks and rays.

First, it is an interactive zone where children can learn about marine animals second, the Penguin Ice Playground is suitable for everyone. There is even a 4D cinema and feeding shows if you want to make it more thrilling. That's a truly magical journey for families and lovers of marine life.

14. Go Wild At Safari World

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The drive-through Safari Park and the Marine Park sections offer an opportunity to start or continue a conversation with giraffes and lions, zebras, and other exotic animals.

Sights such as the aquatic show, Dolphin Lagoon, and stunt performances are held at Marine Park. The interesting thing is the possibility of feeding giraffes on the special platform.

Safari World has been designed as an exciting learning experience for children and parents who expect an excellent day full of fun and entertainment.

15. Visit The Temple Of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

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Emerald Buddha Temple is one of the beautiful temples and it is situated in the heart of The Grand Palace. One must pay attention to its crown jewel, the Emerald Buddha; a religious artifact emblematic of Thai Buddhism, crafted from a single piece of green jade.

Many golden works of art, vibrant mosaics, and peaceful gardens give glimpses of Thailand and its kings and monks' way of life. It is on the list for those who are interested in the culture and the spirituality.

16. Admire The View From Baiyoke Sky Tower

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Standing 84 floors high, the Baiyoke Sky Tower gives a stunning bird's-eye view of Bangkok. The observation deck which is on the 77th floor offers a breathtaking view of the urban landscape.

But wait if you want to double the excitement just move to the revolving top on the 84th floor. Also, there is a sky bar and buffet restaurant in the tower. It is an incredible way to tour around Bangkok whether at day or at night.

17. Walk Around ICONSIAM

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ICONSIAM is revolutionizing the malls and shopping centers by having that prime location on the riverfront where people can shop till drop. The design and the layout of this architecture are State art, with the LV brands, a giant food court with local and international dining, and Thailand's indoor floating market.

Its multimedia water feature and cultural performances make your visit more colorful and interesting. Stroll through the art pieces to have a look at the art installations, appreciate the panoramic views of the river through various terraces, or just shop.

As an extreme luxury shopping destination, ICONSIAM is so much more than a mall, it is an expo of Thai culture.

18. Step Into The National Museum Bangkok

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Get to know more about Thailand's past when you visit the National Museum Bangkok, the largest museum in Southeast Asia. It has various royal and cultural materials such as royal ornaments, antique products, sculptures, and Thai traditional musical instruments.

From the architecture, the museum is a marvel, it has used both classical and modern architecture in its construction. Different types of guided tours offer interesting knowledge about the country and its cultural and historical development.

It is an excellent place for history lovers and lovers of culture, in general.

19. Explore Madame Tussauds Bangkok

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The Madame Tussauds in Bangkok is home to a number of wax figure statutes that make celebrity icons come alive. You can take pictures together with global icons including Albert Einstein Beyonce, and Jackie Chan, or Thai celebrities including King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Touch screen displays allow you to revisit famous scenes in movies, sports, and history. It is as entertaining as it is informative, and it provides an opportunity to learn things about personalities who are well-known to everyone.

20. Visit The Snake Farm

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The Snake Farm under the Thai Red Cross Society is a place worth visiting for it is an informative site for venomous snakes.

Here you will get information about different types of snakes, how snake venom is collected to produce antivenom, and the importance of snakes in an environment.

The museum of the institute offers an interesting and informative collection of information and artefacts, that are related to the biology of snakes and their relationships with people. So, visit here if you have some time in your hand.

21. Shop At CentralWorld

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A shopping mall in Bangkok known as the CentralWorld is one of the biggest and surely shopping lovers' heaven. With hosting hundreds of stores, it has global brands, healthy food, and clothing to local artisans' work.

Its food court houses delicious cuisines, and big restaurants, cafes, and bakeries have taken a spot at the mall. There is also entertainment such as ice skating and a cinema in addition to other Bangkok shopping facilities.

22. Attend a Traditional Thai Dance Show

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End your Bangkok adventure by experiencing Thailand's rich cultural heritage through a traditional dance performance. The Thai dance show is a normal and captivating program that displays the colorful culture of Thailand.

Singers dressed up in glitzy costumes relate historical folklore and myths through ballet dance, mimes, and aesthetic music.

The program re-creates elements of mythology and history as well as gives an insight into folklore as the audience is immersed in a cultural experience. This is perfect for those who want to engage with Thai customs.