Bangkok Travelers Recommend

Bangkok is home to over 26,000 Buddhist wats, or temples. Expect to be humbled by their gorgeous gold foil stupas, enormous Buddha statues, fragrant incense, intricate stonework, and serene ambience. Here are some of the must-see Buddhist temples in and around Bangkok.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Set near the Grand Palace complex and just inland from the Chao Phraya River, Wat Pho is included in most city tours for good reason: It’s centrally located; is one of Bangkok’s oldest temple sites; and houses one of the city’s largest Buddha statues, a 150-foot (46-meter) reclining golden Buddha. The statue has ornate patterns on its feet and an apparent smirk on its lips, perhaps at photographers’ futile attempts to capture its largess. The temple grounds are also home to an array of point-topped chedi, Thai Buddhist stupa-like monuments, and a cloister lined with golden Buddha statues—no two of which are the same.

Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha)

Another gold Buddha worth a visit and often included in temple tours is the 15-foot (4.5-meter) seated one in Wat Traimit, on the outskirts of Chinatown. Not your average gold Buddha, this one is made of solid gold, weighs about five and a half tons, and is worth millions. The palatial white and gold temple also houses exhibits on the history of the Chinese community in Bangkok, an interpretive center, and a museum that documents the story of the golden Buddha statue.

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Tuk-tuk temple tours typically stop at Wat Phra Kaew. Considered one of the most sacred temple sites in all of Thailand, its storied dark-green statue, just 26 inches (66 centimeters) tall, is believed to have been carved in the 14th century. Its murky history is filled with legend, and the temple’s elaborate carvings of kinnara (Buddhist mythological figures) and warrior statues supporting golden chedi add to the site’s mythical flair. A newer temple a few miles away and often coupled with tours of downtown wats is Wat Benchamabophit, a late 19th-century temple built of Italian marble.

Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn)

For some exercise, head to riverside Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. Its series of external stone steps are climbable for spectacular city views from its perch on the west bank of the river.

Ayutthaya Temples

The Ayutthaya temple complex, 53 miles (85 kilometers) north of Bangkok, is the UNESCO World Heritage–listed site of a once-thriving Kingdom of Siam capital. Explore the area’s many intact temples including Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Phanan Choeng, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, the latter known for its large bronze Reclining Buddha statue. Tours to the historic area often also include a stop at the former summer palace of King Rama IV (now a museum) and a boat ride to see other ancient temples along the Chao Phraya River.

As Thailand’s largest city and one of the world’s busiest tourist destinations, Bangkok can keep you entertained for weeks. Yet with just two days you can still take in the highlights, discover the famous floating markets, feast on delicious Thai cuisine, and experience Thai culture. Here’s how to spend an unforgettable 48 hours in Bangkok.

Day 1: Temples and Traditions

Morning: Make an early start and set out on a tour of Thailand’s traditional floating markets. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the most popular and it’s a mesmerizing sight, with boats lining the canal and vendors selling everything from tropical fruits and delicious coconut candies to beautiful handcrafted goods.

Afternoon: Some of Bangkok’s most magnificent temples are in the heart of the city. Take a walking tour of the Grand Palace, where the star attraction is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Nearby, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), and Temple of the Giant Swing (Wat Suthat) are equally impressive.

Night: Continue sightseeing with an after-hours tour of Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s liveliest neighborhoods renowned for its street food. End up on the legendary Khao San Road, where you can drink cocktails, browse souvenir shops, or just soak up the street’s atmosphere into the wee hours.

Day 2: Shopping and Sightseeing

Morning: If you’re visiting on a weekend, make a beeline for the huge Chatuchak Market, where vendors sell everything from handicrafts and clothes to fun souvenirs and delicious street food. Otherwise, there are plenty of other markets to explore, including Sampeng, Wang Lang, and Khlong Toey.

Afternoon: See a different side of Bangkok on a scenic sightseeing cruise. Glide along the Chao Phraya River, past city landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, then venture out along the khlongs (canals) for a glimpse of local life in suburban Bangkok.

Night: Conclude your Bangkok trip with a cabaret show or a nighttime sightseeing tour of the city. Finish the evening with a drink at one of Bangkok’s stunning rooftop bars—popular choices include the Banyan Tree Hotel’s Moon Bar and the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower.

The capital of Thailand and southeast Asia’s travel epicenter, Bangkok bewitches and bewilders. Whether you’re zipping through the streets in a hot-pink taxi, cruising the Chao Phraya River at sunset in an elegant barge, or hopping from market to market in a colorful tuk-tuk, the city will leave you energized and enthused. 

It pays to plan ahead to beat the crowds, though: Nearby attractions, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya to the Bridge on the River Kwai, immortalized on film, can get booked up quickly, especially in high season. From temples to markets, from massage to muay thai boxing, see below to discover the essential sights, activities, and experiences in Thailand’s city of angels.

Cramming all of Bangkok’s top sights and best bites into one day is no easy feat. Maximize your time by planning your itinerary carefully, swapping taxis for tuk-tuks, and taking in multiple attractions on one tour. Here’s are some ideas for how to spend an unforgettable 24 hours in Bangkok.

Morning: Temples and Palaces

Set out early on a sightseeing tour of Bangkok’s must-sees before the crowds arrive, starting with the magnificent Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho). The Grand Palace is just a short stroll away and visiting with a guide ensures you cover all the highlights of the vast palace complex. Don’t miss a visit to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), the king’s residence, and the Royal Courts. Next, ride the cross-river ferry from the Grand Palace Pier to visit the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) and enjoy stunning views of the sacred temple.

Afternoon: Chinatown and the Chao Phraya

Hop in a tuk-tuk for a scenic ride to Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s most atmospheric districts and among the largest Chinatowns in the world. Hiring a guide is a great way to explore the maze-like streets; otherwise else simply wander around on your own, browsing the lively street markets and filling up on tasty street food. From Chinatown it’s a short stroll down to the pier, where sightseeing cruises set sail along the Chao Phraya. Relax on-board as you float past the riverfront sights, then enjoy a glimpse of local life along the klongs (canals). 

Evening: Night Markets and Nightlife

Choose between Bangkok’s two main nighttime entertainment areas—Khao San Road or Sukhumvit. The backpacker hostels, street markets, and cocktail bars along Khao San Road are great value and offer the chance to pick up some last-minute souvenirs as well as party into the early hours. Alternatively, Sukhumvit is home to Bangkok’s infamous red-light district (Soi Cowboy), but also some of its most luxurious hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. Enjoy a drink with a view at the Octave Rooftop Bar, stroll around Soi Cowboy, or party at one of the many bars and nightclubs along Sukhumvit Soi 11.

With its mega malls and bustling night markets, Bangkok is a haven for shoppers. Whether you want to shop for kitschy souvenirs among locals or browse designer boutiques in air-conditioned comfort, Thailand’s capital has something for you. Here are a few of the best spots for a shopping spree. 

Chatuchak Weekend Market

For passionate shoppers, no visit to Bangkok would be complete without visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market, the largest weekend market in Southeast Asia. In addition to Thai snacks and unique souvenirs, you can buy a wide variety of clothes, accessories, and antiques here. Be sure to take cash, and prepare yourself for large crowds. 

Iconsiam

For an altogether different shopping experience, take a trip to glamorous Iconsiam mall, conveniently located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Free ferries shuttle visitors across the river to the shopping center, which boasts sleek architecture and a rooftop bar where you can enjoy sweeping views of Bangkok’s skyline. 

Asiatique: The Riverfront

Also benefiting from a riverfront location is Asiatique, an open-air shopping complex that’s home to vintage stores, high-street shops, and food stalls. The airy complex combines a market-style layout with a relaxed atmosphere for a shopping experience that’s far more tranquil than your typical night market. Asiatique is also home to the Calypso Cabaret Show, one of the best transgender shows in Bangkok. 

MBK Center

With more than 2,000 shops spread over eight levels, MBK Center is legendary among Bangkok shopping malls. Stores sell everything from DVDs and stationery to fashion items and leather handbags here, and a stop here is a great way to experience local life, especially during the weekend.

While summer in Bangkok is the rainiest time of year, there’s still plenty to see and do that won’t leave you soaking wet at the end of the day. Here are our top picks for how to spend your Bangkok summer vacation.

• Learn how to cook traditional Thai cuisine using the bounty of the season by signing up for a cooking class.
• Relax tired muscles by treating yourself to a Thai Massage.
• Visit the city’s most important art museums and cultural centers — many of them temperature-controlled — on an art tour.
• Take a private day trip to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore Wat Pho, famous for its reclining Buddha, at your own pace by downloading a self-guided audio tour.
• See architecture from across Thailand in one spot with a visit to the Jim Thompson House.
• Hit up Bangkok’s Grand Palace and the city’s most important temples on a city tour.
• Make reservations for lunch with fantastic views at the Baiyoke Sky Tower.
• Book ringside seats to a Muay Thai (Thai kickboxing) match.

Thailand’s floating markets evoke an earlier era, when waterways were the main conduits of trade. Today they couple exotic wares—tropical fruits, fragrant foods, and the necessities of city life—with opportunities to meet colorful locals in traditional longboats. Here are some of the Bangkok area’s best floating markets.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

In Ratchaburi, some 62 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of downtown Bangkok, this market takes place each morning from 7 to 11am on the Damnoen Saduak canal. If you can, come early—the best stuff goes quickly. Test your bartering skills from shore or take a paddleboat tour through the chaos, ordering fried bananas served via fishing pole from neighboring boats. Get your camera ready for great shots of women in traditional wicker hats and their loads of fruits and vegetables, but remember to be courteous and ask your photo subjects for permission before snapping. Many floating market tours tag on trips to the River Kwai, the stupa at Phra Pathom Chedi (Phra Pathommachedi), and the Rose Garden, all of which are all well worth a visit. 

Taling Chan Floating Market

For something a little closer to the center of Bangkok, this smaller market, some nine miles (15 kilometers) west of downtown, offers an authentic experience to mingle with locals as they drift along a sleepy canal. Take a private tour and learn how to barter for fruits and vegetables grown in gardens nearby. Once you’ve had enough shopping, find a quiet spot to enjoy fresh seafood before hopping on a long-tail boat trip through the neighboring canals.

Amphawa Floating Market

Just nine miles (15 kilometers) from the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, this mid-size shopping area is the region’s only floating night market (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from about 4 to 9pm), and tends to be more popular with Thai locals than visitors. Food is king at Amphawa, and this is apparently where “boat noodles” originated. Watch as local vendors maneuver their row boats overflowing with steaming woks of pad Thai, vats of traditional Thai-style coffee, and carefully packaged desserts. When the sun goes down, rent a boat and watch the place light up as you drift along the waterways.

With historic temples and palaces and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, Bangkok is a perfect romantic destination. Here are some of the best activities for couples in Thailand’ capital. 

Cruise the Chao Phraya River

There’s a certain romance to being on the water, making a Chao Phraya River cruise a must. Book a private longtail or speedboat for the perfect romantic date; time your cruise to enjoy sunset and then watch the city light up; or enjoy a candle-lit dinner cruise, which are typically accompanied by live entertainment and plenty of drinks.

Relax with a Spa and Massage Package

Pamper your sweetheart with a relaxing or invigorating massage. Thai massages are famed for their therapeutic and calming effects, though there are plenty of other styles to choose from. For the ultimate experience, book a couples massage.

Enjoy a Special Sightseeing Tour for Two

Bangkok is full of unique sights, which range from the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Dawn to the Jim Thompson House and the floating markets. Opting for a private tuk-tuk tour lets you customize your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.

Turn up the Heat with a Cooking Class

They say the way to the heart is through the stomach, so test out this theory during a cooking class. Culinary tours typically teach you to make some of Thailand’s most iconic dishes, and some include a visit to the market to pick out all the ingredients you need. For an intimate experience, book a private class.

Dinner and Drinks with a View

Bangkok has an abundance of rooftop bars that offer panoramic views. Book a table for you and your sweetheart to watch the sunset and glittering city lights, as you sip on cocktails and enjoy romantic dinner for two.

While Bangkok is better-known for its palaces and temples than its museums, the Thai capital is home to thriving fine-arts and performance-arts traditions. Here are the top places in Bangkok to experience Thailand’s art scene.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

If you're interested in contemporary art and culture, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is the place to experience it. The center hosts a variety of special events focusing on everything from art and media to performance.

Bangkok National Museum

Established in 1874, the Bangkok National Museum is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, with extensive collections of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Choose a tour that gets here early to avoid the crowds.

Jim Thompson House

At the fascinating Jim Thompson House, visitors can see different types of Thai architecture along with a large collection of Southeast Asian art. Those who want to view the interiors need to join a tour; hotel transfers are often included with private tours, which you can prebook.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Spread across five stories, this contemporary-art space houses a permanent collection exceeding 800 paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other pieces, all displayed in light, airy spaces. 

Vimanmek Mansion

Situated inside the Dusit Palace Complex, the Vimanmek Mansion contains royal chambers featuring a variety of elaborate period furnishings. The mansion is also home to a large collection of royal artwork, including paintings of erstwhile rulers.

Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand, has a long history in the country dating back to the 16th century. Also known as Thai boxing, Muay Thai is a full-contact martial art where two opponents battle using their fists, elbows, knees, shins, and feet, and matches are quite vigorous. Here’s how to experience Muay Thai boxing in Bangkok.

Muay Thai Boxing Matches

Bangkok is home to several Muay Thai stadiums, the most famous of which are Rajadamnern (Thailand’s oldest boxing stadium) and Lumpinee, both of which host matches most nights of the week. You can skip the hassle of lining up for tickets and get a close-up view of the action by prebooking a package that includes ringside seating. These packages typically also include round-trip transfers (private or shared) from your Bangkok hotel.

Muay Thai Boxing Lessons

If watching Muay Thai boxers in action inspires you to challenge yourself and test your skills, you can book a private or group class at a Bangkok training facility, or even at the famed Rajadamnern Stadium itself. Classes teach the foundations of Thai boxing, as well as the rules and regulations, and are generally suitable for all experience and fitness levels. Classes typically include round-trip transfers from Bangkok hotels and some offer a post-class meal.

Springtime is the hottest season in Bangkok, and as you may want to avoid long walks during the heat of the day, there’s plenty to do indoors (and at night) for those who prefer to keep cool. Here are a few ideas about how to spend your time.

• Soothe achy muscles with a traditional Thai massage or spa package.
• Hit up some of Bangkok’s many air-conditioned malls, perhaps with your own shopping guide/stylist.
• Learn how to surf at the wave simulator at Flow House.
• Interact with monks during an early morning almsgiving with a local guide.
• Set sail on a luxurious dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
• Go on a day tour to the waterfall-covered landscapes of Erawan National Park.
• Take a guided tour to the Grand Palace, home to the Thai royal family.
• Learn Thai dance and puppeteering from a local artist.

If you're visiting Bangkok in the fall, you'll likely experience a bit of rain and (relatively) cooler weather, with rainfall decreasing drastically in October, making way for a pleasant November. As such, it’s a good idea to plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities for your fall trip. Here are some suggestions.

• Take in a cabaret performance by trans performers at the Calypso Cabaret.
• Explore the city at your own pace with a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour.
• When the weather is fine, go on the rides and slides at Siam Park by prebooking a skip-the-line ticket.
• Take in fantastic city views with a lunch or dinner at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck.
• See architecture from across Thailand on a tour through the Jim Thompson House.
• Visit a flower market and learn the art of lotus folding by enrolling in a flower workshop.
• Learn how to kickbox Thai style by signing up for Muay Thai lessons.
• After a long day of sightseeing, treat your tired muscles with a traditional Thai massage.

With three days in Bangkok, you can hit all the must-see sights plus venture farther afield for a rich history or nature fix. Admire beautiful temples, visit the famous floating markets, cruise the canals, and then take some time to feast on tasty Thai cuisine and experience local culture. Here’s how to have an unforgettable 72 hours in Bangkok.

Day 1: See the Must-See Sights

Spend your first day admiring Bangkok’s top attractions, starting with a tour of the magnificent Grand Palace. The official residence of the Thai king is full of stunning photo opportunities, with highlights including the Royal Courts and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), one of Thailand’s holiest temples.

Many temple tours and walking tours also include the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), and the Temple of the Giant Swing (Wat Suthat). After a busy day of sightseeing, relax on a scenic dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River and enjoy spectacular views of Bangkok by night. 

Day 2: Day Trip to the Countryside

There are plenty of options for day tours from Bangkok, offering a chance to escape the city and explore the stunning Thai countryside. Perhaps visit the UNESCO World Heritage–listed ruins of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam, or discover the beautiful landscapes of the Khao Yai National Park. You can even visit the coast—the lively resort town of Hua Hin lies approximately 2.5 hours south of the capital.

A fascinating day trip destination is the notorious Burma Railway, also called the Death Railway, as it—and the famous Bridge on the River Kwai—was largely built by Allied POWs during World War II. Tours typically include a visit to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum.

Back in Bangkok, head to Khao San Road, one of the city’s busiest nightlife areas. Browse the street markets, fill up on street food, and spend the night hopping between the many bars and nightclubs.

Day 3: Get Your Shopping and Culture Fixes

A 3-day stay in Bangkok means that you can really immerse yourself in local life and experience Thai culture, so spend your final day doing just that. Start with a visit to one of the colorful floating markets around Bangkok—Damnoen Saduak is a popular choice—then explore Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown district aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. 

Spend the afternoon shopping at more of the city’s famous markets—the gigantic Chatuchak Market is a must if you’re visiting on a weekend—and sampling the city’s renowned street food. The Bang Rak district is also renowned for its delicious street food, and a guided tasting tour is a perfect way to learn more about Thai cuisine.

In the evening, opt for a memorable activity such as joining a Thai cooking class, attending a Muay Thai kickboxing fight, or watching a cultural show (Siam Niramit is a solid choice).

As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok offers ample opportunities to try out dishes from across the country. From classic pad thai to Thai–Chinese dumplings, here are some of Bangkok's most beloved dishes. 

Pad Thai

Thailand’s best-known culinary export, pad thai, also happens to be a popular street-food item. This stir-fried dish is made from flat noodles fried up with vegetables, eggs, and meat or tofu and garnished with peanuts and sprouts. It’s easy to find all over the city, but the most famous place to get it is Thipsamai, just east of the Grand Palace.

Fresh Fruit and Fruit Juice

There’s no shortage of fruit in tropical Thailand, and freshly squeezed juice and precut fruit make for popular roadside treats. Favorite beverages include saccharine tangerine juice and even pomegranate juice; just be aware that vendors often add a lot of sugar. Fruits worth trying include mangosteen, jackfruit (it’s sweet and fruity when ripe), and durian, a stinky, divisive fruit that’s common across Southeast Asia; most people either love it or detest it.

Mango Sticky Rice

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll love mango sticky rice, a popular dessert found in restaurants and at roadside stalls alike. It’s exactly as it sounds—a portion of mango served with a ball of sticky rice—but it’s the sweet coconut milk poured over the dish right before it’s eaten that seals the deal.

Thai Chinese Food

Every country has its own unique spin on Chinese food, and Thailand is no different. Chinese dumplings and seafood noodle dishes are particularly popular, and the Yaowarat neighborhood (Bangkok’s Chinatown) is one of the best places to try out Chinese dishes adjusted to Thai palates. 

Tom Yum Goong

Another mainstay of Thai restaurants around the world, tom yum is a hot-and-sour, lemongrass-dominant soup that usually contains some sort of meat and/or vegetables. The most popular version in Thailand is tom yum goong, the shrimp variety.

While Bangkok weather is fairly pleasant year-round, rainy days are not unheard of, especially if you visit during the wet season between early June and November. Here are some rainy-day suggestions should you find yourself stuck indoors.

• Try muay thai boxing classes, a fun and kid-friendly way to burn off extra energy and learn one of Thailand’s most beloved sports. Afterward, seek out a Thai massage in one of the many spas around the city.

• Dedicate some time to a Thai cooking class that will empower you with skills to craft favorites like pad Thai, curries, and spring rolls long after you return home.

• Stroll through one of Bangkok’s many shopping malls, most of which feature both Thai and international brands. Try high-end Emporium in the Sukhumvit neighborhood or the MBK Center, home to some 2,000 shops spanning eight floors.

• Head to SeaLife Bangkok Ocean World (formerly Siam Ocean World), an underground aquarium home to more than 30,000 aquatic residents from around the world.

• Spend a day soaking in Thai culture with visits to the Thai National Museum, a showcase of exhibits and artifacts spanning prehistory to the present day, and the National Gallery, dedicated to non-secular Thai art and modern Bangkok art.

• Stop by the must-see Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), an elaborate indoor treat.

Bangkok’s busy roads and hot weather can make sightseeing a challenge. Yet it’s still easy to get around this vast city by using its above-ground Skytrain network and metro system, together with a mix of river cruises, tuk-tuk excursions, and hop-on-hop-off-bus, walking, and bike tours. Here are your options.

Public Transit

Bangkok’s comprehensive and inexpensive public transport system includes its elevated Skytrain (BTS) system, metro trains (MRT), and buses. The fast and comfy Skytrain network links with the MRT to cover the entire city. Both have their own ticketing systems covering everything from single journeys to single- and multi-day passes, mostly purchased at vending machines. Bangkok’s buses are cheap and cheerful, but the dense web of routes and sometimes unmarked stops can make them confusing for first-time visitors.

Tuk-Tuk Tours

Tuk-tuks are one of the best ways to negotiate Bangkok’s roads and experience its atmosphere. Choose from numerous tours that hop between highlights such as the Royal Palace and the major temples. Evening tuk-tuk excursions are great for scouring Bangkok’s night and food markets—with the tiny, motorized rickshaws perfect for tasting stops and crowded alleyways.

Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tours

A hop-on hop-off tour will help you find your feet and see Bangkok’s highlights at your own pace, without having to negotiate public transport. Tours typically stop at must-sees such as the Grand Palace and China Town, and you’re free to ride the full loop for an overview or disembark at different stops to create your own itinerary.

River and Canal Cruises

The Chao Phraya River bisects Bangkok, and a cruise along its waters provides wonderful panoramas of the Grand Palace, the 17th-century Wat Arun, and other landmarks. Dinner cruises are popular for combining the illuminated sights with an onboard Thai buffet and entertainment. Other options include daytime motorboat or rice-barge cruises along Bangkok’s klongs (canals) to see traditional waterside houses and shrines.

Walking and Biking Tours

Bangkok’s traffic and high temperatures aren’t particularly conducive to walking or biking tours, especially when it comes to touring the busy main sights. That said, they’re ideal for delving deeper into off-the-beaten-track neighborhoods. Join a walking tour to discover old Bangkok’s hidden treasures, book a guided walk around a street-food market to sample local dishes, or take to two wheels to admire the city by night or cycle along quiet canalsides.

While tropical Bangkok doesn't have a true winter season, things definitely cool off from December through February. It's also one of the drier times of year, making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities. Here are a few ways to experience Bangkok this winter.

• Explore the city like a local with a tuk-tuk trip around town.
• Grab your camera and take a day trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
• Experience Bangkok’s street-food scene and nightlife with a night tour.
• Cruise the Chao Phraya River on a romantic dinner cruise.
• Immerse yourself in the many cultures that call Bangkok home with a walking tour of the city’s multicultural markets.
• Take advantage of the city’s ample shopping opportunities on a shopping trip with your own personal stylist.
• Learn some Thai kickboxing moves during a Muay Thai class.
• Tour the capital city’s famous wats, or Buddhist temples, with a local guide.
• Go on a day trip to the city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bangkok is best known for its bustling nightlife, colorful markets, and sparkling temples amid ultra-modern highrises. To enjoy a chilled out day or half-day of culture, history, and learning, check out one of these top-notch museums.

Jim Thompson House

American businessman Jim Thompson helped revive Thailand’s traditional silk-weaving industry. The Jim Thompson house displays his private art and antiques collections within beautifully restored old teak homes and includes luscious gardens.

**How to Visit:**Visitors are required to join a guided tour of the interiors.

Bangkok National Museum

This extensive collection of Thai art and artifacts is housed in an 18th-century palace. It’s a convenient place to visit while also touring the Grand Palace and nearby temples.

**How to Visit:**Consider hiring a private guide to get added context and details on the items on display.

Ancient City Museum

The Ancient City Museum, east of Bangkok, is one of the largest open-air museums in the world. Find many of Thailand’s most beautiful and interesting architectural wonders in miniature.

**How to Visit:**Hire a bicycle to tour the large outdoor museum, and plan on spending the whole day.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Showcasing the collections of prominent Thai communications magnate, Boonchai Bencharongkul, the Museum of Contemporary Art spans five floors. In a country famous for its traditional architecture and crafts, MOCA presents a different side of Thailand’s artistic and cultural expression. 

**How to Visit:**MOCA is a bit out of the way. Take the Skytrain to Mo Chit station; then take a taxi.

Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

Located in the basement of the enormous Siam Paragon mall, Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is one of the biggest aquariums in Asia. Gaze at the sharks and stingrays swimming around you as you walk through a glass tunnel.

**How to Visit:**Purchase a combo ticket that gives admission to Sea Life as well as Madame Tussauds Bangkok.

Bangkok is a foodie paradise, offering everything from cheap and tasty street dishes to high-end cuisine. While regional variations exist within Thailand, this capital city draws from them all, making it a great place to sample a little bit of everything. Here are a few foods and activities you won't want to miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Thailand is perhaps best known for its curries, and Bangkok is no exception. Many shops sell several varieties, along with a selection of stir-fried dishes served over rice. And if it's noodles you're craving, sample some pad Thai or pad si ew, a dish made from flat rice noodles stir-fried with egg, greens and sliced meat.

Salads such as the famous spicy green papaya salad and larb (made from minced meat) are flavorful and refreshing, while those with a sweet tooth will appreciate dessert in the form of sticky rice with mango, Thai ice cream or a cold cup of Thai iced tea.

Must-Do Experiences

• Hit the pavement on a walking tour of a food-centric neighborhood such as Bang Rak or Chinatown to experience the depth and breadth of Bangkok's food scene.

• Give your feet a rest by tasting the best of Bangkok's street food via a tuk tuk food tour through the market stalls.

• Try out traditional Thai techniques at a cooking class and learn how to recreate your favorite dishes in your kitchen back home. There are several classes to choose from, and many include a visit to a local market to shop for local ingredients.