8 Essential Attractions to See in Bangkok

Whether you're shopping, dining, or exploring the city's beautiful temples, Bangkok offers endless activities that can keep you occupied for weeks.

Despite the countless experiences awaiting you in this vibrant city, Bangkok is often overlooked by tourists who see it merely as a stopover for beach or mountain vacations. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming at first.

To make your trip easier, we’ve narrowed it down. Here are eight must-see spots to include on your Bangkok itinerary:

1. Temples

With 95% of Thailand's population being Buddhist, it's no surprise that Bangkok is home to hundreds of temples, or 'wats' in Thai. To experience local worship practices, visit one of the many stunning temples tucked away in the city's neighborhoods, often hidden down narrow alleys far from the tourist crowds.

Some temples are part of large complexes, with halls, schools, and revered statues. Among the most notable are the Grand Palace, Wat Po, and Wat Arun, which should definitely be on any first-time visitor's Bangkok list for their historical importance and sheer beauty.

The Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Rd, Maharaj Pier near the Wat Phra Kaeo Temple Complex, Bangkok, Thailand, +66 2 623 5500

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District, Bangkok 10200, Thailand, +66 2 225 9595

Wat Arun, 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand, +66 2 891 2185

2. Jatujak Weekend Market

Bangkok’s Jatujak (also known as Chatuchak) Weekend Market, or JJ Market, is one of the largest in Asia, spanning 35 acres with thousands of vendors. On weekends, it attracts up to 200,000 shoppers. It’s a great spot for Thai crafts, art, clothes, home goods, and even pets.

The downside? It's hot, crowded, and easy to get lost in the maze of stalls. But that’s part of the charm for many visitors. For a more relaxed experience, arrive early, before 9 a.m., or later in the afternoon, around 4 p.m.

Chatuchak Weekend Market, Kampaengphet 3 Road, Khwaeng Lat Yao, Khet Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand, +66 2 272 4813

3. Jim Thompson House

The story of Jim Thompson is told in every guidebook about Thailand, and his iconic brand is sold in 13 locations across Bangkok, as well as two factory outlets.

For an authentic experience, visit the historic Jim Thompson House to learn about its enigmatic founder, an American who gained global fame for reviving Thailand’s silk industry before mysteriously vanishing in the Malaysian jungle in 1967.

The traditional Thai-style teak house, nestled among lush greenery, is filled with Southeast Asian antiques collected during his travels. But don’t just take our word for it. Somerset Maugham, who dined here with Thompson in 1959, perfectly described it: 'Not only are the things beautiful, but they are arranged with impeccable taste.'

Jim Thompson House, 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Rd, Bangkok 10110, Thailand, +66 2 216 7368

4. Ancient City

This is the only way to explore Thailand’s most famous historical sites in a single day. Located about 45 minutes from Bangkok, Ancient City in Samut Prakan is home to replicas of many important Thai landmarks, including the Grand Palace in Bangkok and the Preah Vihear Temple on the Cambodia border.

Given the park's vast size, walking is not ideal. It's best to rent a golf cart or bicycle to comfortably explore the area.

Ancient City, 296/1 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoo, Samut Prakan 10280, Thailand, +66 2 709 1644

5. Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a massive shopping and entertainment hub located along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River. Drawing inspiration from the city's history as a riverside trading center in the early 1900s, the complex resembles a traditional pier with rows of warehouses.

The dining options include a variety of upscale bistro-style restaurants offering Thai, Japanese, French, and Italian cuisine, along with an Irish pub and a wine bar. There's also an outdoor, covered food court. The easiest way to reach Asiatique is by taking the free shuttle boat, which regularly departs from the BTS Thaksin Pier.

Asiatique The Riverfront, 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand, +66 2 108 4488

6. Siam Niramit

Siam Niramit is an impressive stage production that brings together over 100 performers to showcase seven centuries of Thai culture in a thrilling 80-minute show, filled with stunning special effects.

The shows begin daily at 8 p.m., and there's an on-site restaurant serving a typical Thai buffet dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. After the performance, families can enjoy additional attractions, including elephant rides, a recreation of a traditional Thai village, and other cultural exhibits.

Siam Niramit, 19 Tiamruammit Road, Bangkok 10320, Thailand, +66 2 649 9222

7. Museum of Contemporary Art

To explore Thailand’s contemporary art scene, venture out of the city center to the Museum of Contemporary Art, a newly established venue in Bangkok.

This five-story museum is the brainchild of a Thai telecommunications mogul who wanted to make his impressive modern art collection accessible to the public. MOCA provides an excellent introduction for those seeking to understand Thailand’s evolving art landscape.

The museum showcases works by most of Thailand’s top artists from the past 50 years, as well as a number of lesser-known talents.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 499 Kamphaengphet 6th Road, Lad Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand, +66 2 016 5666

8. Museum of Floral Culture

This is one of Bangkok’s most delightful hidden gems.

Founded by renowned Thai floral artist Sakul Intakul, the museum is a haven for flower enthusiasts and anyone interested in Thai floral traditions. It features exhibits on important floral practices from across Asia, including Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Laotian, and Balinese/Indonesian cultures.

The museum is located in a beautifully maintained, century-old teak house featuring colonial architecture. Its expansive grounds are now home to a meticulously designed garden blending traditional Thai and Zen elements.

The Museum of Floral Culture, 315 Samsen Rd. Soi 28, Yaek Ongkarak 13, Dusit, Bangkok 10300 Thailand, +66 2 669 3633