Things To Do in Bangkok
Perhaps you’re wondering where the heck to begin planning your trip to Bangkok. There is too much going on. Well, let’s just jump right in. Maybe I can help.
All of the places below are linked for you.
Where Did You Stay?
There is no shortage of places to stay. This is the last hotel we stayed and I think it’s worth mentioning.
THA City Loft is in the Ekkamai district. The location was the best thing about the hotel. It’s near the BTS, Big C, banks, ATM, Ekkamai night market, massages (in the hotel and Health Land), great restaurants for coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Staying at THA was a great experience. There is no carpet in the hallway so noise does echo, but it didn’t disturb my sleep. My neighbor’s alarm clock did though. The hotel is very clean, they provide two bottles of water a day, has a great A/C, and comfy beds. Aesthetically, it’s moody, modern, and artsy. The rooms have a refrigerator and safe. Laundry is available upon request and for a fee. The front desk workers were pleasant and spoke English. Last but not least, there’s a nice bar in the hotel and a rooftop bar.
You can see other places I’ve stayed here.
What should I do?
Explore and learn about the culture and history.
Click the activity title for more information.
This is an absolute must, if you’re physically able. The scooter tour was one of those “I’ll never forget that” kind of experiences. The tour guide was young, kind, fun, funny, and spoke great English. We paid $29 for a 3+ hour tour on Airbnb Experiences. That price included drinks, roti, and a ferry ride. The group visited Chinatown, the flower market, rode across the river bridge, visited two temples, and made a few other stops. I highly recommend this activity.
Note: your route and stops may be different than ours. Confirm with the tour guide.
I’ve visited Bangkok three times and I’ve been to Jim Thompson house three times. I will always make this stop. There is something special about the story and estate of Jim Thompson. Click on the link to read more about it.
On my third visit to Bangkok I finally visited the Grand Palace. There is a lot to see. We did the quick and dirty run through, but I would suggest a guided tour bought inside the palace.
Khon - Thai Dance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre
The Grand Palace gave free tickets to see Khon (Thai story dance) at the exit which included a free shuttle ride. The show lasted about an hour and it was perfection. I’ve wanted to see Thai dancing since I watched Samsara on Netflix.
Koh Kret - river market tour (island)
This is not a floating market, but a boat ride around the island stopping at different land markets. Very local, relaxing, and interesting.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
This market is about a two hour drive from THA City Loft. It is a tourist destination, but totally worth it. You can rent a longtail boat and cruise the market and canals purchasing food and souvenirs along the way. If you’re looking for transportation there, either take a taxi or contact Yoso Travel.
Shop
Men, now is the time to buy a suit. Find someone at MBK to give you a good deal. Negotiations are required (says me). MBK Center is an indoor market with restaurants. They sell anything from cell phone chargers to tailor made suits and dresses.
This is a really upscale, riverside mall which offers luxurious shopping, nice restaurants, and a fancy indoor market. There is a free shuttle to cross the river.
Chatuchak Market aka JJ Market
The market of markets. Take the BTS and visit on a Saturday or Sunday evening.
Ladies, go see Ako & Sila’s booth for unique and well-priced accessories. They have an Instagram account that is very enticing. If you can’t locate the booth, message her on IG.
When you finish shopping, take a taxi to Ongtong Khaosoi for a scrumptious dinner near the Ari BTS station.
This riverside, outdoor mall has shops, restaurants, street food, and a massive ferris wheel with a great view of the city.
Also, see the spectacular city views at Sky Bar Bangkok
Massages
Chetawan massage (near Wat Pho)
Where Did You Eat (and recommend)?
The Coffee Club
the best, wholesome breakfast we found.
Broccoli Revolution - Vegan Restaurant
Ekkamai Beer House - a restaurant with a full menu.
Padthai Maethongbai
The picture is linked to a pin as they have not updated the Google maps address, but it’s around the corner from THA City Loft.
River Tree House - located near Koh Kret
Sabaijai - walking distance to THA City Loft
Ongtong Khaosoi near Chatuchak Weekend Market & walking distance to Ari BTS station
Khun Mai Roti (Halal)
Stopped here on scooter tour
S&P Restaurant by THA City Loft
Coffee beans by Dao (it’s a restaurant with a full menu)
Mae Varee - The BEST sweet sticky rice and mango
Coffee Houses
Ekkamai Macchiato
Pictured: Honey Bee - espresso, ginger ale, honey, lemon, mint
Baan Kudi Chin Portuguese Museum
What transportation methods did you use?
BTS is the best way to travel in my opinion. Get a rabbit card, a re-chargeable swipe card for the BTS. I used approximately 400 baht/$13 in 7 days. We traveled a lot!
Note: Phaya Thai BTS station to Airport Link to Suvarnabhumi = 35 minutes
Grab taxi - I scheduled a pickup twice and they were on time. I’d say they are reliable. Follow them on your own GPS. One driver accidentally took us to Wat Arun vs. Wat Pho - different sides of the river and he had the correct destination in his GPS.
Regular taxi - We spent 600 baht//$20 on a van taxi from the airport to THA for 4 people, with luggage and fishing equipment. It was a flat fee quoted by the driver before we left the airport.
Water taxis are an inexpensive and fun way to travel as well.
River taxi and ICON Siam shuttle.
Tip: If your taxi driver takes you to Wat Arun versus Wat Pho - hop on the water taxi and go across the river. (That happened to us.) The boat is like 50 cents/15 baht and you get to sit and cool off. Don’t make a mountain out of a mole hill.
Things you should be aware of:
Buy a SIM Card and phone plan at the airport. They sell 10 day (+/-) plans for tourists. Mine cost less than $20 (beats paying Verizon $10 a day or Vodofone $3 a day).
Big C is a grocery store.
7-11 has cheap drinks and snacks.
I couldn’t find decaf coffee in the Suvarnabhumi airport.
Save some baht to use in the airport.
At Suvarnabhumi, use the bathroom before reaching your gate, if the gate is not open. The gate has a restroom, but you can’t use it if that gate isn’t open. Restrooms are not common throughout the terminal, so when you see one - go.
Don’t tear off your departure card on the customs card given to you on the plane. The immigration officer will stamp it and tear it off for you. I received a scolding for tearing mine off.
We walked 40 miles while in the city for 7 days. I can’t stress enough - wear comfy clothes and shoes.
Want more travel information on Thailand?
Check out TaushPointo’s Thailand posts as she travels from North to South Thailand with her husband and their 6 year old daughter.
Outside This Small Town has an intense 11 day Thailand Travel Guide which takes you from North Thailand to South, then on to Cambodia.
Bangkok Map - List of Places to Visit, Coffee Shops, and more.
If you hate the idea of planning your trip, send me a message. I’m happy to forward you an itinerary or two.
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