Bangkok is loud, hot, and chaotic – and yet (or perhaps because of that) absolutely fascinating. Hardly any other city combines tradition and madness as closely as Thailand’s capital. Between street food stalls, golden temples, and honking tuk-tuks, a new adventure awaits around every corner. Planning a stop in Bangkok? Good decision! Here are the coolest 13 sights in Bangkok that you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy browsing!

• Bangkok Sights
• 1. Grand Palace
• 2. Wat Pho (the Reclining Buddha)
• 3. Golden Mount Temple
• 4. Wat Arun
• 5. Bangkok’s Floating Markets
• 6. Chatuchak Market
• 7. Lumphini Park & Benjakitti Park
• 8. China Town
• 9. Bangkok’s Skyline
• 10. Shopping at MBK Center
• 11. Khao San Road
• 12. Riverfront Asiatique
• 13. Muangboran Ancient Siam City
• Bangkok’s Sights – Conclusion

Bangkok Sights

There’s so much to see in Bangkok, it’s hard to know where to start. Don’t try to visit all of Bangkok’s sights, but focus on selected highlights depending on your time. We’ve marked the most important sights for you on the map below, so you can get a good first impression of the city.

Quick Facts Bangkok

• Location: Capital of Thailand, in the central south of the country
• Population: Approx. 10 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area
• Temples: Over 400 Buddhist temples (Wat)
• Traffic: Chaotic – but with BTS Skytrain, MRT & Easily accessible by boat
• Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
• Time difference: CET +6 hours
• Climate: Tropical – hot, humid, three seasons (hot, hotter, hottest )

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1. Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is probably Bangkok’s most famous attraction – and yes, totally overrun with tourists, but still absolutely worth seeing. The complex was built in 1783 and served as a royal palace for a long time. Today, you can not only marvel at impressive temples and magnificent buildings, but also discover countless artistic details – from colorful mosaics to murals.

You can discover various murals, the Wat Phra Kaeo Museum, and a reenactment of Angkor Wat. The complex is decorated with stunning mosaic stones, which beautifully round off the overall picture. You may only enter the palace wearing closed shoes and long clothing, so your shoulders and knees must be covered.

• Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Admission: Approx. 500 baht (including admission to Wat Phra Kaeo)
• Dress code: Typical for a temple – shoulders and knees should be covered.
• How to get there: By boat (stop at “Tha Chang”) or with the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin + boat.
• Beware of tourist traps: People at the entrance will often tell you that the palace is closed today – this is almost never true. Ignore it and just keep going.

Grand Palace Tours:

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
• Highlights, Temples, and Canal Tour with Lunch*
• Guided Tour of the Grand Palace*

2. Wat Pho (the Reclining Buddha)

Did you know that there are over 400 Buddhist temples in Bangkok? By the way, they’re called “Wat” here – and you’re guaranteed to encounter them all the time during your visit. Wat Pho is certainly one of the most impressive. Just a few minutes from the Grand Palace, you’ll find the giant reclining Buddha: a whopping 46 meters long and 15 meters high, completely gilded. The feet alone are so large that you almost look like a Lego figure next to them.

The entire temple complex is beautiful and much quieter than the Grand Palace. Wat Pho is also considered the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage. If you like, you can even treat yourself to one there. The temple is not an insider tip (which would be difficult with 10,000 visitors a day), but it is still a place that will surprise you with its peace and spirituality.

• Entrance fee: 200 baht (incl. 1 bottle of water at the entrance)
• Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Dress code: As with most temples – shoulders and knees covered
• How to get there: Boat to Tha Tien Pier and 2 minutes walk. Alternatively, tuk-tuk or taxi.
• Tip: It’s best to come in the morning or late afternoon when it’s not as hot and there are fewer people.

Wat Pho Tours:

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
• Highlights, Temples and Canal Tour with Lunch*
• Wat Pho and Wat Arun – Guided Walking Tour*

3. Golden Mount Temple

The Golden Mount Temple is one of Bangkok’s highlights that often slips under the radar – and that’s precisely what makes it so special. The temple complex is located in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district and is one of the oldest in Bangkok. From afar, you can see the golden spire shining on the artificial hill.

You slowly wind your way up 318 steps – past small shrines, prayer bells, and shady corners. Once at the top, not only the golden chedi awaits you, but also a truly beautiful view over the rooftops of Bangkok. The atmosphere up here is particularly amazing in the morning or just before sunset.

Right next door you’ll find the small temple Wat Saket, which is particularly impressive in the evening with its lighting.

• Admission: approx. 100 baht
• Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Dress code: Typical for a temple – shoulders and knees should be covered
• Tip: It’s best to come early in the morning or towards evening – it’s less hot then and the light is more beautiful.
• How to get there: By taxi, tuk-tuk or Grab. The nearest boat dock (Phanfa Leelard) is a few minutes walk away.

Golden Mount Temple Tours:

• Bangkok’s Magical Nighttime Tuk Tuk Adventure*
• Highlights, Temple and Canal Tour with Lunch*
• Bangkok: Wat Ratchanatdaram, Golden Mount, & Wat Trai Mit*

4. Wat Arun

Wat Arun is located directly on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is one of Bangkok’s most famous temples. The central temple tower, the Phra Prang, rises 67 meters high and looks spectacular, and not only at sunset. Perhaps it looks familiar? No wonder – it adorns the 10-baht coin and pretty much every other Bangkok postcard.

The tower is said to represent the mythical Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. It sounds crazy, but it looks truly impressive – with all the small details, colorful mosaics, and porcelain shards that decorate the tower.

The easiest way to cross the river is by ferry – from Tha Tien Pier (right next to Wat Pho), you’re across in just a few minutes. The ride costs only 5 baht per person. Wat Arun means “Temple of Dawn” – but honestly, it’s also really impressive in the evening light.

• Admission: 100 Baht
• Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Dress code: The same applies here: Cover your knees and shoulders
• Tip: It’s best to come in the late afternoon – then you’ll have perfect light and can also watch the sunset on the river.

Wat Arun Tours:

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
• City Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour*
• White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise in the Evening*

5. Floating Markets in Bangkok

Want to cruise through floating food stalls and colorful market stalls on a boat? It’s simply a must in Bangkok! The floating markets are not only super photogenic, but also a unique insight into traditional life on the water. On small wooden boats, you’ll sail past fresh fruit, steaming street food, and vendors in straw hats.

The most famous (and, to be honest, the most touristy) option is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – definitely worth a visit, but it’s worth getting there early, otherwise it gets crowded quickly. If you prefer something more relaxed and less crowded, the Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market is a great alternative – smaller, more local, and with significantly more Thai vibes than tourist trouble.

Did you know that, in addition to the well-known floating markets, there are also some truly charming alternatives? The Amphawa Floating Market is one of them – smaller, more authentic, and especially popular with locals. It’s located about 90 kilometers west of Bangkok and is perfect for a day trip. The Taling Chan Floating Market might also be of interest to you. This takes place every Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Popular tours to the floating markets:

• Damnoen Saduak Market & Mae Klong Railway Market*
• Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Market Day Tour*

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6. Chatuchak Market

If you like markets, you definitely shouldn’t miss Chatuchak Market. With over 10,000 stalls, it’s not just the largest market in Thailand, but more of a little shopping universe in its own right. In this huge market (around one square kilometer), you can find absolutely everything – from clothes, decorations, plants, and secondhand items to furniture, street food, and vintage books.

We were there for hours (we still felt like we missed half of it) and could hardly decide where to look first. It’s colorful, loud, and bustling – but that’s exactly what makes it special. Be sure to take a break every now and then and eat your way through the food stalls – you can find everything from classic Pad Thai to crazy snacks.

• When: Saturday & Sunday, usually from around 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (also on other days)
• Where: By MRT (Kamphaeng Phet station) or BTS Skytrain (Mo Chit)
• Tip: Come early, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget water!
• Tour: Ultimate Shopping Experience with a Private Driver*

7. Lumphini Park & Benjakitti Park

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city, then head to Lumphini Park. Located in the heart of Bangkok, it’s like a green oasis amidst all the noise, traffic, and high-rise buildings. Here you can simply breathe deeply, go jogging, ride a pedal boat, or treat yourself to a spontaneous picnic with a snack from 7-Eleven.

Particularly beautiful: the large lake with the typical water monitor lizards gliding leisurely through the water. And if you’re still there around 6 p.m., you’ll get a little cultural experience for free – the Thai national anthem resounds throughout the park, and everyone stops for a minute. Quite impressive.

Tip: If you prefer something more modern and quiet, check out Benjakitti Park – it’s not far from Lumphini Park and even connected by a skywalk. There you’ll find huge ponds, wide walking paths, bike paths, and plenty of greenery. Especially beautiful at sunset!

8. China Town

Chinatown in Bangkok feels like a world of its own – loud, colorful, chaotic, and somehow completely crazy. It’s crowded, wild, and quite fascinating here. Before Bangkok became the capital, Chinese traders actually lived exactly where the Royal Palace stands today. When the space was needed, they were promptly relocated – thus, today’s Chinatown was created.

As you walk through the narrow alleys around Yaowarat Road, you’ll be immersed in a bustle of flickering neon signs, lanterns, street food, street stalls, and smells that fluctuate somewhere between delicious and “What is that?!” Raw meat hangs next to giant sacks of dried mushrooms, plastic dinosaurs stand next to lucky cats, and in between, there’s something to eat everywhere – dumplings, fried noodles, deep-fried insects, or fresh pomegranate juice.

It’s best to come in the afternoon or evening – that’s when the area really comes alive and you can observe the hustle and bustle. And bring an appetite; here you can eat your way through all of China without leaving Bangkok. There’s plenty to discover around Yaowarat Road. Be sure to bring some time with you!

9. Bangkok’s Skyline

Skybars in Bangkok are more than just rooftop locations – they are small highlights above the city’s rooftops. While the traffic rages below and tuk-tuks wind their way through the chaos, you can relax and enjoy the sunset above as the skyline slowly transforms into a sea of lights. Bangkok has plenty of rooftop bars to offer – from chic and dizzyingly high to casual and hidden.

‼️ Tip: Get to the bars early! The trendy spots fill up quickly – 5:30 p.m. is ideal for getting a good spot. And remember: shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are taboo in many rooftop bars. If the big bars are too crowded for you, don’t worry – Bangkok also has plenty of cool hidden bars that offer a relaxed atmosphere.

Here are a few cool sky bars that are definitely worth a visit:

Sky Bar @ Lebua at State Tower – Famous from The Hangover 2, luxurious atmosphere & breathtaking views over the Chao Phraya River. Dress code: smart casual. ☞ Make a reservation online here.

Vertigo @ Banyan Tree – One of the highest bars in Bangkok, with panoramic views and fine drinks. Dress code: elegant. ☞ Make a reservation online here.

Tichuca Rooftop Bar – Tropical jungle flair with colorful neon LEDs and a relaxed vibe. No dress code! ☞ No reservations possible. First come, first serve!

Octave Rooftop Bar – Three floors with 360° views, relaxed atmosphere & happy hour offers. Dress code: smart casual. ☞ Make a reservation online here.

The Speakeasy Rooftop Bar: Great bar in 20s/30s style! Also offers a breathtaking view over the city’s rooftops. Dress code: smart casual. ☞ Make a reservation at +66 -2 630 4000 4215

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10. Shopping at MBK Center

If you want to shop in the city of Bangkok, there’s no way around the MBK Center. This shopping monster has six floors, over 2,500 stores, and feels more like a giant market under one roof than a traditional mall. On the lower floors, you’ll find mostly clothing, bags, souvenirs, and snacks. Further up, things get really techy: cell phones, cameras, accessories—here you’ll find everything that flashes, beeps, or charges.

Other shopping addresses for Bangkok:

• Central World – One of the largest shopping centers in Asia
• ICONSIAM – Luxurious mall on the Chao Phraya with a huge indoor street food market
• EmQuartier & Emporium – Stylish malls with high-end fashion and concept stores
• Siam Center & Siam Square: modern, creative & cool cafes.
• Siam Paragon: designer brands, electronics, gourmet supermarket
• MBK Center – The classic shopping center for bargains, technology and souvenirs
• Terminal 21 Bangkok Mall: modern mall in cool airport style

11. Khao San Road

You’ve probably heard of Khao San Road – and yes, it’s just as wild, loud, and weird as everyone says. If you’re in Bangkok, you should take at least one evening to experience the colorful chaos on Khao San Road (and Rambuttri Road) firsthand. Everything is lined up here in just 400 meters: bars, clubs, food stalls, massage parlors, souvenir shops, and tons of people from all over the world.

As soon as the sun goes down, it gets really crowded – and really loud. Street musicians, dancing tourists, colorful neon lights, and the smell of Pad Thai or fried insects fills the air. You can sample exotic (and sometimes truly adventurous) street food, watch people munching on scorpions, or get a foot massage in the middle of the street.

Popular Tours:

• Bangkok’s Magical Nighttime Tuk Tuk Adventure*
• Maliwan Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour*
• Mad Monkey Bangkok Pub Crawl*

12. Riverfront Asiatique

If you want to take a relaxed stroll in the evening without having to push your way through narrow market alleys, then Asiatique The Riverfront is exactly what you need. Located directly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this market is a mix of night market, open-air mall, and promenade – all in a cool harbor style. Old warehouses have been transformed into stylish shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

Here you can take a leisurely stroll along the water, tuck into street food and international cuisine, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy the view over the river. In the evening, everything is bathed in warm light, and live music plays in many corners – a truly chilled atmosphere.

For Bangkok standards, it’s surprisingly relaxed and clean here. Perfect for just relaxing for a few hours, people-watching, or sipping a cool drink on the pier at sunset. The best way to get there is by taking the free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier – the ride itself is a little highlight!

Riverfront Asiatique Tours:

• Bangkok: Admission ticket for the Calypso Cabaret Show*
• The Opulence Dinner Cruise with live music*
• White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise Free beer*

13. Muangboran Ancient Siam City

Explore all of Thailand in one day? Sounds impossible at first – but at Ancient Siam (Muang Boran) you’ll get just that. Just outside of Bangkok lies this huge open-air museum, which shows Thailand in miniature – including temples, palaces, floating markets, and traditional villages. The park was even roughly designed in the shape of a Thai map and features over 100 replicas of the country’s most famous sights.

Stroll through old royal palaces, discover a stupa from the south, walk through villages from the north, or take a detour to a mini-floating market – all in a wonderfully green, tranquil setting. Ancient Siam is, by the way, the largest open-air museum in the world – and a perfect day trip if you want to escape from noisy Bangkok for a while. It’s best to rent a bike or an e-cart, otherwise you’ll be on the move forever given the size.

Bangkok’s Sights – Conclusion

Bangkok is not a city you simply “visit” – you experience it with all your senses. Between golden temples, street food stalls, rooftop bars, and hidden markets, tradition mixes with madness, chaos with tranquility, and luxury with plenty of everyday life.

Whether you’re in Bangkok for the first time or have been there before, the city never ceases to surprise you. Our tip: Don’t plan too much; go with the flow, sip a coconut every now and then, and just see what happens. Because that’s exactly how Bangkok feels best.

• Grand Palace by anek.soowannaphoom | shutterstock.com
• Temple Wat Pho Reclining Buddha by tonson | shutterstock.com
• Golden Mount Temple by Krissadakorn | shutterstock.com
• Wat Arun by Daily Travel Photos | shutterstock.com
• Floating Market by izzet ugutmen | shutterstock.com
• Ratchada Train Market by martinho Smart | shutterstock.com
• MBK Shopping Center by icosha | shutterstock.com
• Street Food by Romas_Photo | shutterstock.com
• Ferris wheel from Asiatique Riverfront Market by Jet4289 | shutterstock.com
• Muangboran Ancient Siam City by PangJee_S | shutterstock.com