Listly by Joanna James
Bangkok is a beautiful and exciting place to visit - filled with countless attractions that captivate the senses. Here are 10 must visit attractions in Bangkok to check out!
Possibly the city's most famous attraction; visitors should not miss the opportunity to view this splendid palace whilst in Bangkok. Once home to the King of Thailand as well as the former Thai government, this stunning palace is now open to the public as a monument of the past. Exploring the palace can take a few hours as the area is massive. Do be careful of being overcharged by people outside the palace, and only pay the entrance fee when you're actually entering.
The temple is home to Bangkok's famous Reclining Buddha, standing at 15m tall and 46m long, the sight of the gleaming Buddha statue is not one to miss. The whole statue is detailed in gold leaf, and seems to emit a peaceful serenity, whilst captivating the viewer. Aside from the statue, there are also 108 bowls into which you can drop coins, you can buy these on the way in.
Bangkok is known as a shopper's city, and Chatuchak Market is a shopper's paradise. With an estimated 8000 vendors covering over 27 acres, Chatuchak Market is considered to be one of the largest in the world. Open every weekend, it attracts over 200,000 eager shoppers every day. You can find great bargains here. However, you may want to find a map of the place before you go, or you may get lost.
The grand river is considered the lifeline of the city and with good reason. It feeds the many canals that once earned Bangkok the name 'the Venice of the East' and continues to play an integral role in the lives of locals today. A boat ride along the river is a great way to experience the city, not to mention get out of the traffic congested streets.
This lush green haven is the largest park and recreational area in the city. Located not far from the glamorous malls and resplendent hotels, such as Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, for example. Locals come here to get away so don't be surprised to see groups of senior citizens practicing tai chi, or romantic couples canoodling near the lake. On weekends, the park is crowded with families who come to enjoy the cool breeze and sunshine, so try to go either early morning or late evening.
While you're probably feasting on amazing food at your hotel in Siam Bangkok, make an effort to try all the various street food available outside your hotel. Bangkok's street vendors serve up an array of deliciously fresh food at low prices. Everything from satay to pad Thai, and sweetened snow ice can all be had on a simple street corner.
An internationally recognised landmark, the golden temple is located along the banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River. The temple is beautifully detailed with porcelain tiles that catch the light of the sun, making it an incredible sight to behold come dawn or dusk.
This luxury mall is home to hundreds of intentional brands and fashion designers, as well as a multiplex theatre, dozens of restaurants and Southeast Asia's biggest aquarium. It's definitely not as affordable as the markets, but you can certainly enjoy the many shops inside and their unique offerings.
This Brahman shrine is popular among visitors and locals alike, as it's believed that laying garlands of flowers here can bring about good wishes. The shrine itself is one of a four-faced Brahma deity, and quite fascinating to see.
Thailand is well-known for its beautiful silks and the Jim Thompson House is where you can learn all about it. You can learn all about the story of the famed Thai Silk Company, as well as the man behind its success, Jim Thompson. The house is actually more like a complex made up of 6 traditional teak buildings.