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Things to Do in Bangkok

Things to Do in Bangkok

Bangkok Thailand Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace nature with exciting activities in and around Bangkok.

Land & Water Activities

Hiking & Trekking

No significant routes exist within Bangkok. These are available as day trips or multi-day excursions into national parks outside the city (e.g., The Great mountain National Park).

Water Sports

Kayaking is possible in some Bangkok canals. Boat trips on the Chao Phraya River offer unique city perspectives. Siam Amazing Park has water slides.

Adventure Sports

Experience Muay Thai by spectating professional fights or training at a gym. Indoor climbing gyms present physical challenges.

Wildlife & Cycling

Wildlife Encounters
  • Lumphini Park: Best place in central Bangkok to spot large monitor lizards.
  • SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World: Indoor aquarium with various marine life.
  • Safari World: Drive-through safari park outside central Bangkok.
Cycling Routes
  • Dedicated parks: Lumphini Park, Benjakitti Park.
  • "Green Lung" of Bang Krachao: Urban oasis with bike rentals.
  • Guided cycling tours are available on less busy routes.

Water Parks

  • Siam Amazing Park (Siam Park City)
  • Water slides and amusement park rides
  • A fun-filled day for families

Boat Trips

  • Chao Phraya River exploration
  • Khlongs (canals) via longtail boats
  • Unique city perspectives and transport

Mountain Biking

  • Not available within Bangkok city limits
  • Requires travel to the national parks
  • Designated trails outside the city

Important Notes for Outdoor Activities

Always prioritize safety and check local conditions before engaging in any outdoor adventure. Stay hydrated in the tropical climate.

Cultural Immersion

Engage directly with Thai traditions and culture for a connection.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Highly popular, half-half-day or full-day-day courses often include market visits.
  • Muay Thai Classes: Many gyms offer beginner courses for tourists, a basic introduction to the martial art.
  • Thai Massage Classes: Learn basic techniques at Wat Pho's traditional medicine school or other specialized schools.
  • Fruit Carving: Learn the artistic skill of carving fruits and vegetables into beautiful designs.

Cultural Performances & Ceremonies

Traditional Thai Dance

Often performed at dinner shows, cultural centers, or the National Theatre. Showcases classical movements.

Khon Masked Dance

A highly stylized classical Thai dance drama, typically based on the Ramakien epic.

Puppet Shows

Baan Silapin (Artist'the House of) offers traditional puppet shows in a charming canalside setting.

Community-Based Tourism

Tours exploring local communities (e.g., Khlong Lat Mayom, Bang Krachao), supporting livelihoods.

Language Learning

Short-term beginner Thai language lessons are available at various language schools in Bangkok.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Check local listings for Songkran (Thai New Year), Loy Krathong, and Chinese New Year celebrations.

Relaxation & Wellness

Bangkok is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Luxury Spas: Banyan Tree Spa, The Peninsula Spa, Oriental Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Divana Spa.
  • Mid-range/Budget: Numerous independent massage shops offer traditional Thai, foot, and oil massages.
  • Wat Pho: Seen as a birthplace of Thai massage, it offers authentic treatments.

Natural Therapy & Yoga

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs exist in Bangkok. These can be found in northern or western Thailand (e.g., Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi).

Yoga & Meditation

Several yoga studios and wellness hubs in Bangkok have lessons. Full meditation retreats usually need travel outside the city.

Traditional Healing

Thai Massage, rooted in bygone healing traditions, is widely available. It incorporates stretching, pressure points, and rhythmic compression.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Hotel Pools

Many luxury and mid-range hotels feature impressive swimming pools, often with pool bars.

Urban Escape

Hotel pools provide a welcome escape from the heat and urban environment.

No Natural Beaches

Bangkok itself does not have natural beach clubs; coastal areas are outside the city.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Bangkok truly comes alive after dark, with entertainment for every taste.

Live Music & Theater

Live Music Venues
  • Jazz: The Iron Fairies and Saxophone Pub are well-known.
  • Rock/Indie: Find live music bars in RCA, Thonglor, or Ekkamai.
Theater & Performance Spaces
  • National Theatre: Hosts traditional Thai performances, including classical dance.
  • Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives: Action-packed show combining Muay Thai with historical storytelling.
  • Joe Louis Thai Puppet Theatre: Offers traditional puppet shows (check current status).

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs & Dancing

RCA (Royal City Avenue) has large clubs popular with locals and tourists. Sukhumvit (Soi 11, Thonglor) has numerous clubs catering to different music tastes.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Sukhumvit (Soi 11, Thonglor, Ekkamai) features a wide array of bars. Khao San The road is known for lively, budget-friendly bars and street parties.

Rooftop Bars

Offer cocktails and panoramic city views (e.g., Sky Bar, Vertigo, Octave) for an elegant nightlife experience.

Night Markets

Continue late into the night, offering food, shopping, and entertainment.

-hour Convenience

7-Eleven and FamilyMart are ubiquitous, providing snacks and drinks any time.

Safe Transport

Use Grab or reputable taxi services for late-night travel for safety and convenience.

Nightlife Safety Tips

Pay attention to your surroundings, do not leave drinks unattended, and watch out for common tourist scams or inflated prices.

Shopping & Markets

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise, from lively markets to luxury malls.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Chatuchak Weekend Market: Massive market with over 15,000 stalls (clothing, handicrafts, food).
  • Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market): Open ALL day and night, buzzing with fresh flowers, especially at night.
  • Wang Lang Market: Local market known for authentic food, clothes, and local goods.
  • Maeklong Railway Market: Market on railway tracks (day trip from Bangkok).

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Independent Artisan Shops

Look for unique handcrafted items in places such as Charoenkrung Road, Talad Noi, or boutique hotel gift shops.

Jim Thompson House Shop

Features a silk shop with high-quality Thai silk products, a testament to revitalized tradition.

Souvenir Recommendations

Thai silk, wood carvings, ceramics, sterling silver accessories, spa products, local snacks, woven bags.

Luxury Shopping

  • Siam Paragon, CentralWorld
  • EmQuartier, ICONSIAM
  • International premium brands
  • Large stores, high-end boutiques

Ethical Shopping

  • Avoid supporting industries that exploit animals
  • Support local artisans and fair trade initiatives
  • Look for shops that state fair wages
  • Be mindful of fake goods; buy from reputable sources

Shipping & Customs

  • Major plazas and post offices offer shipping services
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations
  • Keep receipts for goods purchased abroad
  • Import duties may apply; research before large purchases

Additional Shopping Tips

Bargaining
  • Bargaining is expected in markets like Chatuchak.
  • Start at 30-50% off the asking price.
  • Keep it friendly and respectful.
Payment Methods
  • Cash is king at markets and smaller stalls.
  • Credit cards are accepted in malls and larger stores.
  • Always keep small denominations for convenience.

Activity Planning Summary

Map out your activities considering travel time between different districts and the tropical climate. Booking tours and classes in advance, especially during peak season, can improve your experience and secure availability.

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Explore Popular Categories

  • Food and cooking classes.
  • River cruises and boat excursions.
  • Heritage performances and classic shows.
  • Muay Thai training sessions and fight tickets.