When most people think of Thailand, they think of the stunning beaches the country has to offer. But, the capital city, Bangkok, is also a popular destination. Many tourists only spend one or two days in Bangkok as a transit point, but the city has so much more to offer.
Delicious street food, stunning temples, and lively nightlife can all be found in Bangkok. It is a great city for solo travelers, couples, and even families, thanks to its diversity. Take a look at these pictures Bangkok, Thailand has produced, and you’ll want to book your flight immediately!
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is aptly named as it is one of Thailand’s most grand temples. This is because the palace is the official residence of Thailand’s royalty. Today, the Grand Palace is still used for ceremonies, but it has become more of a tourist attraction.
Due to the Grand Palace’s size, you should set aside a few hours to see the entire grounds. Everywhere you walk, there’s a new temple or beautiful building to see, so you will want to have plenty of time to take it all in. Just make sure you cover up when you visit as there is a strict dress code enforced at the Grand Palace. Your shoulders and knees must be covered, and no flip flops are allowed, even though you must remove your shoes before entering most temples.
Wat Pho – Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Near the Grand Palace is another stunning temple, Wat Pho. Wat Pho is just down the street from the Grand Palace and is home to a giant reclining Buddha that is 150 feet long and covered in gold leaf. Wat Pho is one of the highest royal temples in all of Thailand, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
Believe it or not, Wat Pho is also a great place to get a traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho was the first public university in Thailand, but it is now a center for traditional massage and medicine. You are thus bound to get a great massage, perfect after a day of walking.
Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn
Just across the river from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. You can easily take a boat across Chao Pharaya River that will drop you off directly at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a temple that even children will enjoy visiting as you can climb up the steep steps to get a great view of the entire complex.
One of the best times to see Wat Arun is at sunset or in the evening as the entire temple lights up. Taking a river cruise is a great way to see Wat Arun shine from the water.
Night Markets
Aside from beautiful temples, one of the main things Bangkok is known for is the city’s night markets! Night markets, small and big, can be found all over the city. Here are a few of our favorites.
Asiatique the Riverfront
Asiatique the Riverfront is not a traditional night market. It is more of a trendy, touristy one. This is thus a great place for families, especially because it is much cleaner and organized than other night markets. There is also a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel that visitors can enjoy once they’ve eaten their fill.
Rot Fai Market
Rot Fai night market is another unique one as it is located on an old railway yard, thus given the English name of the Train Night Market. There are hundreds of colorful tents housing things like vintage fashion, collectibles, souvenirs, and of course, food.
Neon Market
One of the newer night markets on the scene is the Neon Market. Aptly named as there are bright neon lights all over the market, making it a great place for photographers to get the perfect picture. There is also live music, a petting zoo, carnival games, and a fairground, so the Neon Market is a great place for kids as well!
Floating Market
Not only are night markets extremely popular in Bangkok, so are floating markets. Two popular floating markets in Bangkok are Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa. Damnoen Saduak was the first floating market in Bangkok and has since become one of the world’s most popular ones.
At this floating market, visitors visit local stalls by boat rather than walking around the market. Most of the stalls are also on the water, which makes the market extremely unique. You can find great handmade crafts, gifts for your loved ones, and most importantly, delicious food at the floating markets.
Rooftop Bars
Once you’ve had your fill of temples and street food, relaxing at a rooftop bar is a great way to end a trip. One of the best ones is Mahanakhon Sky Bar, as it is Thailand’s highest rooftop restaurant and bar. At the top, you will get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, the perfect place for Bangkok pictures. Nightlife in Bangkok is excellent as well as there are plenty of bars and clubs open until the early morning.
After having a classy drink at the Sky Bar, continue your night at Khao San Road. Khao San Road is a street in central Bangkok full of restaurants, bars, and clubs that comes alive at night. You can bar hop, dance the night away and after that, enjoy a nice Thai massage at the end of the night (or early morning).
With such stunning pictures of Bangkok, we want to visit the city ourselves again! Overall, Bangkok has something for every type of traveler. Beautiful temples for those who enjoy architecture. Delicious street food for the foodies. Fun night markets for families and a thriving nightlife for solo travelers and couples. You won’t regret visiting this capital city!