Choose from 178 Fun Things to Do in Thailand
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 178 listings.
Chalong Big Buddha
The Chalong Big Buddha is hard to miss. Built on a patch of virgin rain forest on Khao Nakkerd Hill high above Phuket, this gigantic 148-foot (45-meter) statue is one of the island's most prominent landmarks, easily seen from most places in the south. From the statue’s base, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Chalong Bay and Phuket town.
The Basics
As one of Phuket’s most recognizable attractions, the Chalong Big Buddha features on most sightseeing tours of the island, along with beaches and other notable religious sites. Those who enjoy hiking can book a tour that includes a trek through lush jungle before a visit to the Big Buddha, as well as a trip to Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket. A small museum at the base of the statue chronicles the history of the project. Private tours often visit this site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Big Buddha is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors.
- Entry to the Big Buddha is free, but donations are accepted.
- Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered during your visit; avoid beachwear.
- Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the temple at the Big Buddha.
- There’s a public restroom at the statue about halfway down the stairs.
How to Get There
The Big Buddha is located along a 4-mile (6-kilometer) road just off the main route from Phuket to Chalong. Turn down Soi Yot Sane and follow the signs up the hill. Public transportation to the statue is scarce, so it’s a good idea to hire a taxi or visit as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The statue is at its busiest around sunset (a beautiful time to visit to be sure), but if you want to enjoy the sight when it’s a little less crowded, plan to visit at sunrise when the eastern-facing statue is illuminated by the rising sun.
Messages of Faith
Look closely at the Big Buddha statue, and you’ll see thousands of white-marble slabs engraved with messages from those who donated toward the construction of the statue. Some are words of good luck, while others are in memory of loved ones who’ve died.
Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
Admission: Donations accepted
From $ 11
Calypso Cabaret
Held in the Asia Hotel in Bangkok, the Calypso Cabaret is certainly a show with a twist, using traditional cabaret to parade Thailand’s famous transsexual culture. It’s filled with lots of great costumes, dancing and singing, and performers accommodate all nationalities, singing songs and acting in Japanese, English, Korean and Chinese.
Each show contains several fascinating acts, including that of Carmen Miranda, who rides ostriches on the stage while dancing in the bright lights, a very convincing Marilyn Monroe impersonator and the comedic styling of Geisha, who performs in Japanese, but is hilarious in any language.
The controversial nature of the event make perhaps do not make it ideal for family outings, but these highly professional shows bring lots of memorable moments, including from Korean songs of the Wondergirls and the fantastic and overwhelming finale—which we will not give away here.
Each show contains several fascinating acts, including that of Carmen Miranda, who rides ostriches on the stage while dancing in the bright lights, a very convincing Marilyn Monroe impersonator and the comedic styling of Geisha, who performs in Japanese, but is hilarious in any language.
The controversial nature of the event make perhaps do not make it ideal for family outings, but these highly professional shows bring lots of memorable moments, including from Korean songs of the Wondergirls and the fantastic and overwhelming finale—which we will not give away here.
Address: 296 Phayathai Rd, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
From $ 28
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
For a crash course in the history of Chiang Mai, pay a visit to the Arts & Cultural Centre in the heart of the old city. Using a mixture of labeled artifacts, audio recordings, photographs, and life-size dioramas, the centre’s multimedia exhibits take you on a journey from Chiang Mai’s ancient past as the Lanna Kingdom to its present as a modern, cosmopolitan city. Topics include royalty, religion, agriculture, and hill tribe people. There are also subtitled videos about the history of Chiang Mai that you can watch in air-conditioned comfort.
In addition, the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre serves as a venue for special exhibits and cultural events. Enquire with the staff about upcoming events like dance or music performances.
In addition, the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre serves as a venue for special exhibits and cultural events. Enquire with the staff about upcoming events like dance or music performances.
Practical Info
The Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre is located in central Chiang Mai on Prapokklao Road. The entrance is behind the Three Kings Monument. The centre is open Tuesdays through Sundays and closed on Mondays. The admission fee is payable in Thai currency.
Address: Chiang Mai, Thailand
From $ 31
Chiang Saen
Chiang Saen is a town in northern Thailand on the bank of the Mekong River that is known for its historic ruins. Though Chiang Saen is a small, sleepy town by modern standards, until the 14th century it was home to a powerful independent kingdom. Ruins of the ancient kingdom of Chiang Saen can still be seen, including temples, Buddha images, and the old city walls, and there is an excellent history museum.
Chiang Saen is also near the "Golden Triangle" where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. The town offers hotels and guesthouses as well as restaurants, banks, and an immigration office.
Practical Info:
Chiang Saen is located about 60 kilometers north of Chiang Rai. It is set on the bank of the Mekong River opposite the town of Ton Pheung, Laos. Do note that the Thailand-Laos ferry crossing in Chiang Saen is not open to foreigners - go to nearby Chiang Khong instead.
Public buses run regularly between Chiang Saen and Chiang Rai and the trip takes about 2 hours.
Address: Chiang Rai, Thailand
From $ 68
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Sold around the globe, Chalong Bay Rum is Thailand’s best-known rum brand. At the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery in Phuket, travelers can go behind-the-scenes to discover how the facility uses centuries-old French distillation techniques to transform freshly pressed sugarcane into smooth white rum.
The Basics
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is the perfect destination for a laid-back morning or afternoon of rum sampling. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the rum-making process, sample rum cocktails at the distillery bar, or take part in a masterclass or cocktail workshop to learn the secrets of cocktail making and whip up favorites including Chalong Bay mojitos, Spicyrinhas, and Piña Coladas. You can also combine a rum-tasting session at Chalong Bay Distillery with a private tour of Phuket Town to see city highlights such as a local cashew factory and scenic viewpoints overlooking the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is a must-see for rum and cocktail aficionados.
- The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old.
- The distillery is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is located on Soi Palai in Chalong Bay, roughly five miles (eight kilometers) southwest of Phuket Town. There are no public transportation options, so it’s best to arrive by private vehicle, taxi, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The distillery is open year-round but can get busy during the dry season (November through February), so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds.
The Natural Rum of Chalong Bay
Chalong Bay is renowned for its natural rum production—inspired by traditional French-Caribbean methods—and uses pure sugarcane juice instead of the molasses typically used in industrial rum. The distillery is proud of its eco credentials and uses only the finest Thai sugarcane sourced from local farmers, grown without chemical fertilizers, and harvested by hand.
Address: 14/2 Moo 2 Soi Palai 2 Tambon Chalong Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
Hours: Daily, 11am - 10pm. Distillery tours start every hour from 2pm - 6pm.
From $ 125
Chiang Dao Caves
This group of caves in the Chiang Dao region north of Chiang Mai is full of massive limestone and crystal formations. Though there are many caverns at the base of the Doi Chiang Dao mountain range here, these five in particular are interconnected and open to explore, with impressive stalagmites and stalactites hanging and growing from the ceilings and floors.
Buddha images on the walls of the caves are evidence of their use as shrines and meditation sites. Estimated to run seven miles (12 km) deep, the first two caves are well-lit, but you’ll need a guide and a lantern or flashlight to access the others. Seasonally, an underground river flows through some of the caves, along with many other natural wonders and cultural sights to be discovered and explored.
Seasonally there is an underground river flowing through some of the caves. There are both natural wonders and cultural sights to be explored; just be sure to bring some light or hire a guide who knows the way.
Practical Info
Chiang Do is located 45 minutes north of Chiang Mai on Highway 107. Once you reach the small town of Chiang Dao, look for signs that will direct you toward Doi Chiang Dao; the entrance to the caves is about three miles off the main highway. Admission costs 40 Thai Baht, and a guide with a lantern will cost about 100 Baht.
Address: Chiang Dao, Thailand
Admission: 40 Thai Baht
From $ 56
Bangkok NANTA Theatre
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre stages unique NANTA shows, a non-verbal comedy musical that originated in Korea. Nanta literally means 'to strike relentlessly' in Korean, and this instrumental performance, with a kitchen as its backdrop, uses everything from knives and other utensils to traditional water drums to create a show like no other.
Audiences are taken on an action-packed adventure where performing chefs dazzle and impress, using nonstop percussion, acrobatic cooking styles, and hilarious facial expressions to convey their story.
NANTA made its international debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1999, where it received the best performance award. Since then, the show has been entertaining audiences worldwide, from cities in Europe to those across Asia, and beyond. The show also made history when it became the first Asian production to open its very own large-scale theater in New York.
Practical Info
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre is located in the RCA Plaza, close to the Petchaburi Road. Nightly performances start at 8pm, with a running time of 90 minutes. Round-trip hotel transport is often included in tours. Alternatively, the venue can be reached by taxi, although be sure to leave enough time as traffic in Bangkok can be exceptionally busy.
Address: 31/6 RCA Plaza Building, Floor 1, Soi Soonwijai, Pharam 9 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Shows at 8pm daily (closed every first of the month)
Admission: Royal seat: THB 1300; Standard seat: THB 1100
From $ 14
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar is perhaps the city's most popular must-do attraction. The colorful mix of regular shops and stalls create a unique market buzz.
You’ll find everything for sale here, from ersatz designer brands to embroidered hill tribes textiles, lacquerware, silver jewelry, carvings, silks, ceramics and antiques.
The best range of antiques is on the second floor of the covered market building called the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, to the north of the busy intersection near a narrow cross street.
Practical Info
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is held in the eastern quarter of the city, on land bordered by the Mae Nam Ping River and its tributary.
The market’s busy heart focuses on the intersection of the streets Th Chang Khlan and Th Loi Kroh, but the stalls extend in every direction over several streets.
The market operates every night from sunset to midnight.
Address: Th Chang Khlan and Th Loi Kroh, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Hours: Open nightly from sunset - midnight
Admission: Free
From $ 26
Central World Plaza
Central World Plaza, Bangkok’s largest shopping complex, comprises 5,920,000 square feet (550,000 square meters) of space with 500 shops, 50 restaurants and 21 movie theaters. The retail offerings include a mix of international and local designers and flagship specialty stores, all spread across eight floors. Popular tenants include H&M, Uniqlo, Toys R Us, Zara and Forever 21.
While most certainly a shopper’s paradise, Central World Plaza has plenty of non-retail attractions to boot. Visitors will find indoor and outdoor Activities Zones, an education center for kids, a food court and an ice skating rink.
Practical Info
To reach Central World Plaza, take the subway to Chit Lom Station or Siam Station and exit toward Sky Walk.
Address: 999/9 Ratchadamri Rd, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open Mon- Sun 10 am-10 pm
From $ 33
Bridge on the River Kwai
Thailand’s Kanchanaburi province is home to the famous Bridge on the River Kwai and the beginning of the Thai-Burma Death Railway, both poignant reminders of the thousands of POWs and forced laborers who lost their lives during World War II.
Made famous by the 1957 David Lean movie of the same name, the building of the bridge in 1943 was one part of a huge Japanese wartime project to link Thai and Burmese railway lines and create a direct route from Bangkok.
Due to illness, starvation and neglect, thousands of people lost their lives building the bridge and railway – you can visit the graves of nearly 7,000 POWs at the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. Parts of the original bridge are now displayed in the War Museum here. You can walk along the restored railway bridge on foot or take a train specifically for tourists.
Practical Info
The Bridge on the River Kwai is in Kanchanaburi about 80 miles (130 km) west of Bangkok. Tours often depart directly from Kanchanaburi or from Bangkok Noi Railway Station.
Address: Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Hours: Open daily
From $ 27
Chiang Mai Night Safari
Chiang Mai Night Safari is a large zoo and theme park that is open throughout the day and night. Particularly popular with families, it is modelled on Singapore Night Safari but is twice the size; the site is sprawled across some 300 acres and is home to around 1400 animals.
There is a scenic daytime walking route called the Jaguar Trail that winds around the lake and passes all the most popular animal enclosures, but arguably the best time to visit Chiang Mai Night Safari is after the sun goes down. The nighttime area is split into two zones, the Savanna Safari Zone and the Predator Prowl Zone, both of which are open from 6pm daily. Visitors travel through the different zones from the safety of an open-sided tram, spotting such animals as white tigers, rhinos, hyenas, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, bears, water buffalos, crocodiles, kangaroos and more.
In addition to the walking trails and night safari, there are a variety of other shows and attractions at the park. One of the most popular is the nightly Laser Light Show. There are two shows per night, one at 8pm and one at 9pm, and many visitors consider it one of the main highlights of their visit. It involves a stunning display at the site of a giant fountain, with the cascading water combining with clever light and sound effects to create a spectacular audiovisual experience.
For the most convenient way to visit Chiang Mai Night Safari, book a tour that includes round-trip hotel transportation and admission fees.
Insider’s Tip: You’ll need to plan your visit to the Chiang Mai Night Safari in advance, as the three animal zones have different opening times. The Savanna Safari and Predator Prowl are open from 6pm, while the Jaguar Trail is open from 11am.
Practical Info
Chiang Mai Night Safari is located approximately 10 kilometers from the center of Chiang Mai. If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach it via the free minibus that runs every evening from outside the tourist police office in the middle of the Night Bazaar.
Address: 33 Moo 12, Ratchaphruek Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Hours: 11am-10pm
Admission: Adult: 800 THB / Child: 400 THB
From $ 25
Burma Railway (Death Railway)
During the height of World War II in 1943, the Japanese Imperial Army used forced labor — both Allied prisoners of war and Asian laborers — to construct a rail line between Thailand and Burma to aid in the transport of troops and supplies. The railway stretched for 258 miles (415 kilometers) between Bangkok and Rangoon. Conditions for the workers were abhorrent, with long hours and sweltering heat. By the time it was finished 12,621 Allied POWs had died, as well as tens of thousands of Asian civilian laborers.
In 1947, after the war had ended, the Death Railway closed. A decade later the portion running between Nong Pla Duk and Nam Tok reopened, and today visitors can learn about this dark period in history by traveling the very same rail from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. The portion of the original Death Railway that passes along the Wampo Viaduct offers spectacular views. The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre in Kanchanaburi recounts the history of the line from its construction through its completion.
Practical Info
To see all the historic sites associated with the Thai-Burma Railway, plan to stay at least one night in Kanchanaburi.
Address: Mueang Kanchanaburi District, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
From $ 27
Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach - or Hat Chaweng - is Koh Samui’s most popular, longest and perhaps most lovely beach.
Clear blue-green sea, palm trees, coral reefs and lively nightlife come together to create a laid-back party atmosphere at Chaweng, the second biggest resort hub on the island.
Drinks are sold on the beach by passing vendors and there are water sports for every taste, from windsurfing to water skiing.
Dive operators run tours from Chaweng Beach, and this is where you’ll find most of the island’s nightclubs and bars. At beachfront restaurants you can dine right on the sand as the sun sets over the sea.
Practical Info
Chaweng Beach is on Koh Samui’s east coast.
Address: Highway 4169, Hat Chaweng 84140, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 5
Bangkok Cruise Port
Bangkok is one of Asia’s most exciting capital cities, and there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained while in port. Bangkok cruise port is a popular start or end destination for cruises to China, Singapore, and Southeast Asia, welcoming cruise liners from Viking, Windstar, and Silversea, among others.
The Basics
With so much to see and do in Bangkok, most cruise visitors opt for a shore excursion to make the most of their time. Tours typically focus on the highlights, including the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; temples, such as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of the Golden Buddha; or the gigantic Chatuchak Market, a great place to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and street food. Some tours also include lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic cruise around Bangkok’s canals.
Another popular choice for a shore excursion is a visit to the coastal town of Pattaya. The beach resort is just a 30-minute drive from Laem Chabang port.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Laem Chabang port has food kiosks, gift shops, a massage spa, and a visitor information center.
- With transfer times taking around two hours, full-day shore excursions can last up to 12 hours.
How to Get to Bangkok from the Port of Laem Chabang and Klong Toey
Most cruise ships dock at Laem Chabang, about two hours south of Bangkok. Public transport options from Laem Chabang are limited, so it’s best to prearrange a private transfer or take a taxi. Smaller ships may dock at Klong Toey, located on the Chao Phraya River on the outskirts of the city. For ships docking at Klong Toey, free shuttles often bring passengers into Bangkok—an around 45-minute journey.
Port Information
The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The local currency is the baht. Some shops may accept euros and US dollars, but be sure to check the exchange rate before agreeing on a price. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are generally accepted, although it’s best to carry some cash in smaller denominations, especially for taxis, tuk-tuks, and markets.
Address: Thailand
From $ 121
Chatuchak Market
A weekend visit to Chatuchak Market is an absolute must-do. The snack stalls at the market's entrance selling deep fried insects give you a taste (quite literally if you are game!) of the unique Thai treats that await you within.
Only open on the weekend, Chatuchak is Bangkok's largest and most fun weekend market. You'll need a full day here to navigate the entire place, which bursts with stalls selling everything from reptiles, puppies, exotic food and souvenirs, to fake designer clothes and real designer furniture.
Browsing at the market is a fantastic cultural experience but can be hot and exhausting. Start your day early and take advantage of the many bars and cafes within the market that are perfectly set up for people watching over a cold beverage.
Western food is available but it pays to be adventurous and try a bargain local lunch at one of the many food stalls.
Practical Info
Chatuchak market is in Chatuchak Park. Mochit BTS (Skytrain) leads directly to Chatuchak’s entrance. Chatuchak also has its own MRT (underground) station of the same name.
Address: Chatuchak Park, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open weekends 9am - 6pm
Admission: Free
From $ 13
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
Apart from the beaches, Koh Samui’s distinctive icon is the golden Big Buddha Temple - or Wat Phra Yai - visible above the red-tiled rooftops on the island’s north coast.
The 12 meter (40 foot) Buddha statue is visible from several kilometers away, and even from an airplane if you’re arriving or departing by air.
The temple, shops and restaurants cluster at the base of the statue, and ceremonial stairs lead up to the top for terrific island views.
Practical Info
The Big Buddha Temple is near the airport, on Koh Samui’s north-east coast.
The temple sits on a hill at the end of a causeway at the eastern end of Hat Bang Rak (Big Buddha Beach).
Address: Highway 4171, Hat Bang Rak 84140, Thailand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 17
Bangkok National Museum
The main branch of the National Museums in Thailand, Bangkok's main public museum is also the largest museum in all of South East Asia. Spread out over acres of green grounds and multiple buildings, the museum is a showcase for Thai art and history. Although it used to be considered unorganized, dusty and forgotten, it's recently been renovated and updated and now features a vibrant collection of artifacts with clear English-language descriptions.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Address: 4 Thanon Na Phra That, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Hours: Open 9am - 4pm Wed-Sun, closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and national holidays.
From $ 10
Bangla Road
This eclectic strip of bars, discos, shops and attractions is the epicenter of entertainment in Patong. It offers a taste of some local traditions, as well as near unlimited access to plenty of western amenities. Travelers can shop for high-end fashions, flashy new swimsuits or local souvenirs at the massive Bangla Mall.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Practical Info
Bangala Road is the liveliest stretch of nightlife in Patong, but the 10 or so side streets between Beach Road and Rat U Thit Road offer even more options for dance, music, drinks and ladies.
Address: Patong, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 6
Bangrak
Hugging the Chao Phraya River and home to some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, Bangkok’s Bangrak is a blend of international and local culture. Particularly famous for the commercial shopping district around Silom Road, Bangrak covers a huge area, although most locals usually consider it to be the area surrounding the river.
Aside from its shopping centers and high-rise hotels, Bangrak is home to a number of attractions, including the Bangkok Folk Museum, plus the religious sites of Wat Hua Lamphong and the famous Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman.
The area between the Saphan Taksin Skytrain station and the junction of Charoen Krung and Silom Road is well worth a stroll along. It’s a teeming melting pot of local life and home to a number of hawker food stalls serving delicious and traditional local cuisine.
Practical Info
Bangrak is served well by both Bangkok’s Skytrain and Metro lines. Skytrain stations include Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi, Surasak, and Saphan Taksin. Metro stations include Lumphini, Silom, and Sam Yan. Bangrak can also be reached by river via the Chao Phraya Express Boat.
Address: Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 50
Chao Phraya River (Mae Nam Chao Phraya)
Every great city has a river, and Bangkok’s is the Chao Phraya (Mae Nam Chao Phraya). Alive with traditional long-tail boats, passenger ferries, and cargo boats, the Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of the city. It winds past both ancient temples and modern high-rises, offering a unique, local perspective on the Thai capital.
The Basics
Traveling via the Chao Phraya River is a great way to tour Bangkok while escaping thick city traffic. Most of Bangkok’s main attractions—including the Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), and Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)—are easily accessible from various points along the river. Both Chao Phraya Express boats and converted rice barges ferry visitors to popular city sights. Dinner cruise options abound, complete with live bands and traditional Thai meals, while some small-group boat tours explore the more remote klongs (canal ways) in Thonburi. In addition to traditional sightseeing tours, visitors can tour the night market and the floating market, or try one of many food-based tour options. All offer unique vantages from which to see the city and help visitors avoid the stress of navigating ferry and boat schedules. You can also stay on land and see the river on a tuk-tuk or bicycle tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you’re exploring by day, bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Chao Phraya Express boats can be identified by their orange, green, or yellow flags. Only the orange boat is open every day.
- The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, which can be identified by its blue flag, is usually less crowded—albeit more expensive—than the express boats.
- Some boats leave every five minutes, while others leave every 25 minutes; be sure to check the timetable of your boat before arriving.
How to Get There
The Chao Phraya splits Bangkok vertically into two areas and is a popular way to navigate the city. You can get to the river by taking the BTS Skytrain to Central Pier or Sathorn Bridge Pier. River City Pier, located on the eastern side of the river roughly 20 minutes by road or ferry from the Grand Palace, is also a popular jumping-off point for city tours and dinner cruises. To save the hassle of transportation, opt for a dinner cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
Bangkok is most crowded in November and March due to soccer tourism. March, April, and May are the hottest months, while the rainy season lasts from the end of May through October. The Chao Phraya River is a popular thoroughfare morning, noon, and night. For spectacular city views and the best temperatures, consider early morning or evening sunset cruises.
Exploring Bangkok’s Klongs
When the capital of Thailand moved to Bangkok at the beginning of the Rattanakosin period, European visitors dubbed the new capital “the Venice of the East” for its many canals. Choose a cruise that navigates some of the city’s more remote klongs to see wooden, riverside stilt houses, kids splashing in the river, and some of the city’s colorful and chaotic floating markets.
Address: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 12