Bangkok, also known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, holds the record for the world’s longest city name. Often shortened to “Bangkok” or even referred to as “Krung Thep,” it boasts a rich history and modern vibrancy. The city is defined by the Chao Phraya River, with its important waterway, the Chao Phraya River, dividing it into two distinct areas: the historic Rattanakosin Island and the bustling modern districts across the river. Bangkok’s allure has attracted tourists from around the globe, making Thailand a remarkably beautiful country with a plethora of attractions across all regions. Exploring Bangkok offers a myriad of options that can leave you wondering where to start. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled a list of must-see highlights in the city. Experience Bangkok in a budget-friendly way while enjoying all it has to offer.
Tourist Attractions
- ICONSIAM: A luxury shopping complex in Bangkok, known for its high-end stores, dining, and cultural attractions.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world’s largest weekend markets, offering a wide range of products from clothing to antiques.
Railway Market Ratchada and Sri Nakarin: Also known as the Train Night Market, a unique market set up along active train tracks.
Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market): Bangkok’s famous flower market, where you can find a colorful array of flowers and plants.
Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Taling Chan Floating Market, and Kwan-Riam Floating Market: Traditional Thai floating markets where you can shop for fresh produce, street food, and handicrafts from vendors on boats.
The Chao Phraya River: The major river in Bangkok, offering scenic views and serving as a transportation hub.
Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River: Enjoying a meal on a boat while cruising along the Chao Phraya River, offering beautiful nighttime views of Bangkok’s landmarks.
Khao San Road: A famous street in Bangkok known for its vibrant nightlife, budget accommodations, and street food.
Yaowarat Road (Chinatown): Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown, famous for its street food, markets, and traditional Chinese architecture.
Sea Life Bangkok: An aquarium in the heart of Bangkok, showcasing a variety of marine life and offering an educational experience.
Bangkok Art & Culture Centre: A contemporary art and cultural center that hosts exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew): The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples located within the Grand Palace complex.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): An iconic Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture, situated along the Chao Phraya River.
The Grand Palace: A historic and grand royal palace complex, home to various important government and religious buildings.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha): A famous temple housing the massive reclining Buddha statue and known for traditional Thai massage training.
Golden Mount (Wat Saket): A hilltop temple with a golden chedi offering panoramic views of Bangkok.
Jim Thompson House Museum: The former home of an American silk entrepreneur turned museum, showcasing Thai art and culture.
Bangkok National Museum: Thailand’s oldest and largest museum, featuring a vast collection of historical artifacts and art pieces.
- khaosan: Khao San Road is a popular destination in Bangkok, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and budget-friendly hotels. It’s a favorite among backpackers and international travelers as well as local tourists. While Khao San Road itself covers only a few blocks, its lively atmosphere extends to Rambuttri Road and Phra Athit Road nearby.
Popular Restaurants
- Krua Apsorn: A well-known restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on traditional recipes and flavors.
Supanniga Eating Room: A dining establishment known for its Thai dishes, particularly featuring recipes passed down through generations.
Ruen Mallika: A restaurant that specializes in traditional Thai cuisine, offering a cultural and culinary experience.
Methavalai Sorndaeng: A historic restaurant known for its classic Thai dishes served in a charming, traditional Thai setting.
Ban Khun Mae: A popular restaurant famous for its homely and delicious Thai dishes, providing a taste of Thai home-cooked meals.
Aroi Talad: A food court or market-style dining experience where you can sample a variety of Thai street foods and local delicacies.
Luk Ka Thong: A restaurant offering Thai cuisine in a garden setting, providing a serene dining atmosphere.
The Never Ending Summer: A restaurant that combines modern Thai and traditional flavors in a stylish and contemporary setting.
Riverside Terrace: A dining venue located by the riverside, offering scenic views and a range of cuisine options.
Issaya Siamese Club: A fine dining restaurant known for its innovative take on traditional Thai dishes and its elegant ambiance.
Preferred Accommodations
- Riva Arun Bangkok: A boutique hotel located near the Chao Phraya River, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Maiiam Hotel: A contemporary art-themed hotel featuring a collection of modern artworks and a unique design aesthetic.
Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok: A riverside hotel with a minimalist design, providing picturesque views of historic Bangkok landmarks.
The St. Regis Bangkok: A luxurious hotel offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and personalized services in the heart of the city.
Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park: A high-end hotel known for its modern facilities, upscale dining options, and extensive event spaces.
Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok: A hotel and convention center with lavish rooms, multiple dining choices, and proximity to shopping malls.
JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok: A prestigious hotel offering upscale rooms, diverse dining experiences, and a central location for exploring the city.
Millennium Hilton Bangkok: A riverside hotel with panoramic city views, featuring a range of amenities including a rooftop bar and spa.
Rosewood Bangkok: A luxury hotel known for its elegant design, upscale dining options, and world-class service.
Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit: A stylish hotel in the Sukhumvit district, offering well-appointed rooms and convenient access to shopping and dining.
Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn: A modern hotel in the Sathorn area, known for its spacious rooms and stunning cityscape views.
Pullman Bangkok Hotel G: A contemporary hotel with a trendy vibe, featuring stylish accommodations and dining options.
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit: A sophisticated hotel offering comfortable rooms, multiple dining venues, and a central location.
The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok: A luxury hotel known for its refined ambiance, upscale dining, and extensive wellness facilities.
Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok: A modern hotel offering comfortable stays and convenient access to shopping and entertainment.
Centara Grand at CentralWorld: A hotel in the heart of the city with numerous dining options, shopping opportunities, and event spaces.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort: A riverside resort offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle with lush gardens and relaxation facilities.
Banyan Tree Bangkok: A renowned hotel known for its rooftop dining, spa, and panoramic city views.
Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel: A riverside hotel offering contemporary accommodations, rooftop dining, and access to the city’s attractions.
This list provides just a glimpse of the popular hotels that both international and Thai travelers enjoy for their picturesque views, comfortable surroundings, and reasonable prices.