Top 10 tourist attractions in Bangkok (2023)

Get ready to be wowed by one of Bangkok’s most iconic attractions – the Wat Pho temple, home to the legendary Reclining Buddha. This majestic statue stretches an awe-inspiring 47 metres in length and is covered in glittering gold leaves, making it a sight you simply have to see in person to fully appreciate.

But that’s not all – the temple is also adorned with vibrant murals and boasts an impressive collection of nearly 400 Buddha images. And if you’re feeling a bit tired from all the sightseeing, Wat Pho is home to what many consider to be Thailand’s best massage school, where you can indulge in a traditional Thai massage to relax and rejuvenate. And after you’ve visited Wat Pho, make sure to take a quick 10-minute walk to the Grand Palace for yet another mesmerizing experience.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Get ready to shop till you drop at Chatuchak Weekend Market, also known as JJ Market, one of the world’s largest outdoor markets! It’s a bohemian paradise where you can fulfill all your shopping dreams. From unique artworks to traditional handicrafts, Chatuchak has it all. You might even find a few gag gifts, like genitalia-shaped soaps and ashtrays.

But beware, the market can get pretty crowded on weekends, so it’s best to visit in the morning. And as an added bonus, the early bird shoppers usually get a good discount. And remember, quoted prices are only suggestions, so don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors to get the best deal.

Jim Thompson House Museum

The Jim Thompson House Museum is undoubtedly one of the most interesting sights in Thailand’s capital. As its history includes being part of the silk trade’s revival, shopping at Jim Thompson is unrivalled. However, despite his efforts to showcase Thai silk, Thompson mysteriously went missing while in Malaysia, back in 1967. He was never found again.

The museum has dedicated a part of it towards exploring the many theories about how he went missing. Regardless, the museum’s impressive showcase of unique and expensive relics may just be one of the most beautiful displays of Thailand’s rich culture.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

If you are looking for a bit of art and culture, this is definitely the place for you. Designers clearly meant to provide a visually exciting experience for visitors, as the gallery was built in a winding, architectural shape. The BACC was created as a meeting place for artists and the public. But above all its creators strived to place importance on continuing old and newer cultures.

Moreover, the attraction makes it easy to spend a day here, as cafes, eco-friendly souvenir shops, and restaurants provide visitors with all they need. Located only a few minutes from the National Stadium BTS Skytrain station, walking here is easy to experience the ever-changing exhibitions from Thai and international artists. There is no fee to enter the centre, and it is definitely worth visiting for at least an hour.

Bangkok National Museum

This museum definitely hosts many appealing treasures inside with one of the most interesting Asian art collections found. King Chulalongkorn originally established the museum, meant to display his father, King Mongkut’s work. Religious works, regional crafts, and Neolithic artefacts also can be seen here, providing an eye-opening experience for visitors. It’s among the must visit tourist attractions in Bangkok.

Moreover, its guided tour offers insight into the collections, including the region’s religious history that still influences artists today. As one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia, the museum features King Ram Khamhaeng’s Inscription. It was included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme due to its significance. The museum is divided into 3 parts, starting with The Thai History Gallery. Next, is The Archaeological and Art History Collections. Lastly, is The Decorative Arts and Ethnological Collection.

Wat Suthat

Wat Suthat is a temple that is famous for its 21-metre tall red swing. The swing, made of teak wood, was brought to Bangkok from Phrae province. It was used during an old Brahman festival in which men would fling themselves with the swing, hoping to reach a bag of gold that was hung from its top.

The temple, like others, features intricate designs and is thought to be one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. It is also only 1 of 10 temples that is considered a royal temple in the first grade. Wat Suthat features 28 Chinese pagodas which symbolise the 28 Buddhas that were born on Earth.

Wat Arun

Known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun, is a magnificent, white temple that is located on the western end of the Chao Phraya River. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok. The temple is beautifully lit at night, displaying the old capital of Thonburi’s skyline. It is easily considered one of Bangkok’s most beautiful attractions, as it features unique designs.

The temple recently reopened in 2017 after undergoing renovations. It features 5 towers that are visible from the river and are covered with porcelain and ceramic tiles. Tourists can opt to choose a river cruise or ferry ride to get to the temple, which can give them a bit of history about the Chao Phraya River. Additionally, it is best to go in the morning time to avoid crowds.

Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit is, perhaps, one of Bangkok’s most significant temples. Known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, because of its features a 5.5 tonne, Sukhothai-style golden Buddha statue. As it dates back to the 13th century, Wat Traimit is something that tourists should not skip out of seeing.

Located in Chinatown’s southeastern area, the temple is about 450 metres west of the Hualampong Railway Station. In addition, the property has souvenir pop-up stalls, along with 2 schools. And, if you are hungry, Chinese food is just around the corner. The entrance fee is cheap to see the Golden Buddha, and its ornate home.