See and Do in Bangkok

An eclectic city with everything from Buddhist temples to sophisticated rooftop bars, Bangkok has plenty for expats to see and do. While its seedier side sometimes gets the most attention, the whole city is filled with a variety of attractions to suit almost anyone’s tastes.

As a popular tourist destination, Bangkok welcomes millions of foreigners every year. The city's character is a unique mixture of glitz and grit, and expats will be able to enjoy a wide variety of cultural and historical attractions. 

Attractions in Bangkok

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Dating back to ancient times where water transport was an important part of daily life in Thailand, the city’s various floating markets are a reminder of a bygone time and a major tourist attraction. Chief among these is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, about an hour outside the city centre. Shoppers can explore the market with a guided boat tour, loading up on all kinds of cargo bought from floating stalls along the way.

Bangkok National Museum

As one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia, the Bangkok National Museum is sure to have something to interest everyone. Founded in 1874, the museum has a rich history and, today, it's housed in a former palace. With exhibited items dating back up to thousands of years, this is an excellent way to learn more about Thai history and culture.

The Grand Palace

The official royal residence since the 18th century, the Grand Palace is now largely used for ceremonial purposes and remains one of the most famous attractions in Bangkok. Located in the heart of the city on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, it showcases two centuries of construction and history in a variety of beautiful structures. It also houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Museum of Counterfeit Goods

Bangkok is famous as a hub of copyright infringement where a close copy of just about anything can be bought at a fraction of the price of the real thing. The Museum of Counterfeit Goods challenges the common perception that selling and buying such goods is a victimless crime. Run by a high-profile law firm specialising in intellectual property law, the museum showcases thousands of confiscated fakes to the public.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

One of the best-known sights of Southeast Asia, the Temple of Dawn is famous for its colourful spires and the beauty of its unique architecture. Climbing to the top of the central spire is challenging but those up to the task are rewarded with stunning views. Visitors should be sure to dress modestly, however, as it is an active site of worship for Buddhists.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Known for being the home of one of Thailand's first massage schools, Wat Pho has a history that goes back to the 18th century. Its centrepiece, the reclining Buddha, is 43m (151ft) long and covered in gold-leaf. The Buddha's feet are intricately decorated with inlaid mother-of-pearl. This remarkable sight is matched by an impressive temple complex containing everything from the ashes of kings to a Bodhi tree said to have grown from the tree that Buddha sat under when he attained enlightenment.