Visiting Bangkok For the First Time? 5 Things You Must Try There

5 Things To Do In Bangkok

1. Explore the Majestic Temples

Bangkok is home to some of the most beautiful and culturally significant temples in the world. Visiting these temples is a must to truly understand the city’s rich history and religious significance.

The Grand Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangkok. “It was a former residence for King Rama I to King Rama V of the Rattanakosin Kingdom. Today, the place is used for hosting royal ceremonies and welcoming the king's guests, State guests, and other foreign dignitaries”, according to the Tourism Authority Of Thailand. Within the palace complex, you'll find Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Another must-visit is Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), according to the Tourism Authority Of Thailand, “The temple derives its name from the Hindu god Aruna, often personified as the radiations of the rising sun. Wat Arun is among the best known of Thailand's landmarks.” Its stunning spires are an architectural marvel and offer breathtaking views of the river, especially during sunset.

2. Try Street Food

No visit to Bangkok is complete without indulging in its world-renowned street food. The city’s vibrant food scene is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide array of dishes that are both affordable and delicious. Whether you're wandering through bustling markets or enjoying a meal by the roadside, the flavors of Bangkok will leave you craving more.

Don’t miss out on Pad Thai, a Thai stir-fried noodle, often served with cucumber salad, coconut soup, shrimp, chicken, or tofu, and topped with peanuts and lime. Another must-try is Som Tam, a spicy green papaya salad, and Thai Mango Sticky Rice, a sweet dessert made with sticky rice coconut milk, sugar, and fresh mango slices. You can find street vendors selling these dishes throughout the city, making it easy to try local flavours on the go.

3. Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you love shopping, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is an absolute must-visit for you. This market is one of the largest in the world and offers everything from clothing and accessories to plants, antiques, art, and home decor. With over 15,000 stalls, you could easily spend hours here.

The market is divided into sections, so make sure you know what you’re looking for. You can find anything like clothing, decor items, earthenware, bags, and handicrafts, according to the Tourism Authority Of Thailand. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better price. After a long day of shopping, grab a bite at one of the many food stalls scattered across the market.

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4. Take a Boat Ride Along the Chao Phraya River

Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River is one of the main attractions and life of the city, and exploring it by boat is an unforgettable experience. The river connects many of Bangkok's top attractions, and taking a boat ride allows you to view the city from a different perspective. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand,“Nakhonsawan is known as the beginning of Chao Phraya River and it is where Ping River and Naan River flow and join together at the dam at Paak Num Bohi. Tourists can rent a boat (price 180/round trip/can carry 15 people) if they want to travel and see many places along the river.” You’ll pass by historic landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, as well as observe the daily life of locals who rely on the river for transportation. A boat ride at sunset is particularly enchanting, with the city’s skyline and temples bathed in golden light.

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5. Experience Bangkok’s Nightlife

Bangkok’s nightlife is legendary, offering a wide range of experiences for all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re into rooftop cafes, bars, lively nightclubs, or casual street-side bars, there’s something for everyone in this city that never sleeps. For breathtaking views, visit one of Bangkok’s many rooftop bars. Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower is a popular choice, offering panoramic views of the city. It is also the tallest open-air bar in Bangkok, as per Tripadvisor. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, head to the vibrant Khao San Road, where you can find a mix of street bars and live music venues. For a more upscale experience, Sukhumvit Soi 11 is filled with trendy bars and clubs. This place is popular for its cocktail bars, beer bars, rooftop bars, and nightclubs.

Whether you're planning to see temples or do some shopping, Bangkok is sure to captivate you, so make sure you don’t forget to check out these five must-try experiences there.

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