Sightseeing

Popular attractions and places to visit in Bangkok

Grand Palace – opulence, kitsch and revered religious symbolism in the form of the Emerald Buddha combine at Bangkok’s Grand Palace. This place is essential, particularly in the dancing light of a sunrise.

Canals and khlongs – Zoom through the remnants of the Venice of the East in as high-speed, long-tail boat. The khlongs of Bangkok provide a soothing counterpoint to the frenetic hustle and bustle.

Dining – Enjoy the most mouthwateringly incredible food – the street food at Soi Suanphlu or durian cheesecake at Basil.

Sanuk – Loosely translated as fun/party, it is essential to Thais. In Bangkok sanuk means food and nightlife. Here you will find some of the wildest nightlife – Bed Supper Club and the Met Bar for urban sophisticated and Si Nana and Patpong for those who like it raunchy.

Shopping – Markets, shopping centres, high-tech malls, department stores and roadside stalls. It seems that everyone in Bangkok is trying to sell you something and most of the time it is fake. The star in Bangkok’s shipping firmament is the Chatuchak Weekend Market but there’s plenty more besides Siam Square of fashion.

Wat Pho – Admire the Reclining Buddha and the lavish architecture, and leave time for a relaxing massage.

The National Museum – The central repository of the country’s artistic riches.

Chinatown – Kilometers long alleyway markets, and the world’s larges solid-gold Buddha.

Jim Thompson’s House – An elegant Thai Design classic.

Thai Boxing – Nightly bouts at the national stadia, complete with live musical accompaniment and frenetic betting.