The Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand

Visit Wat Pho 

The Wat Pho is a Buddhist temple complex that houses the Reclining Buddha. It is also the birthplace of Thai massage. Stop by the massage school in the back of the temple grounds and get a traditional Thai massage. You won't regret it!

Tour the Grand Palace

This palace is a complex at the heart of Bangkok, which has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam. There is an array of guides outside the gates to take you on a private tour of the Grand Palace. Here you can also learn about the Buddhist religion and culture.

Go shopping at the Yodpiman Flower Market

The Yodpiman Flower Market is a wholesale flower market. Walking through it is an incredible experience and a chance to see all the local flora. It is more than 50 years old and is also the largest flower market in Thailand.  

Jim Thompson House Museum 

The former home of the American Jim Thompson, who started the Thai silk industry after World War II, now houses an extraordinary museum.  It is home to a fantastic collection of Asian art and many unique displays.

Explore China Town

This area is bustling with lights, traffic, food, street vendors, etc. is one of the most social and active spots in Bangkok. At night, the Yaowarat Road transforms into one of the world's most prominent street food spots.  It can be overstimulating for some, but it is worth visiting for a visual and a physical feast. 

Maliwan Thai Cooking Class

 Where else would you learn how to cook Thai than in Thailand. So inscribe in a class at Maliwan Thai cooking school. Your chef will take you to the local market to pick up the ingredients you need to start cooking. 

Day trips 

The Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa Floating Markets are incredible to see and watch goods being sold and traded directly from boats.  

Maeklong Railway Market is about an hour away from Bangkok. The Maeklong (umbrella pulldown) Railway Market is built on an active railway line.  The vendors start moving their goods and umbrellas away from the tracks as the train approaches.

Home Café Tha Tien: This is a tiny (4 tables!) family-run restaurant one block from Sala Rattanoskin and close to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.  

Pad Thai Kratong Thong:  This restaurant is close to Wat Pho and Grand Palace.  The food is delicious, and the staff is amicable and helpful.  

The Sky Bar:  This is one of the highest rooftop bars in the world and a location where part of the movie The Hangover 2 was filmed on the 63rd floor.  Head up for a drink and some incredible views (there is a dress code, so make sure to review before heading there). 

Sala Rattanoskin:  If you aren't staying here, stop by for a drink at their rooftop bar.  The views of Wat Arun and stunning across the river.