Bangkok is one of those cities that feels like it has everything—vibrant energy, incredible food, and rich history. When we visited for the first time, we were overwhelmed in the best way possible. There’s so much to see and do, but these eight spots quickly became some of our absolute favourites:
1. Talat Noi
We stumbled upon Talat Noi by accident, and it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. The narrow streets lined with street art and antique shophouses made it feel like we’d stepped into a different time. It’s a peaceful escape from the usual chaos of Bangkok, and we loved just wandering around and taking it all in.
2. Icon Siam
This mall is like a world of its own. We spent an entire afternoon exploring everything from little boutique shops to the beautifully crafted indoor floating market. That floating market was the highlight for us—it had the charm of a traditional market but with the perks of air-conditioning and no mosquitos! It’s the perfect mix of comfort and culture.
3. Muang Boran (Ancient City)
Visiting Muang Boran felt like taking a trip through Thailand without leaving Bangkok. It’s like a “mini Thailand,” with replicas of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Renting a golf cart made it so much easier to explore the grounds, and with no cars allowed, the quiet pathways gave it such a peaceful vibe. It was one of those places where we really felt connected to the history and culture.
4. Central World
We don’t usually go out of our way to visit malls, but Central World changed our minds. It’s huge, with something for everyone—endless shops, three massive food courts, and standalone restaurants scattered throughout. We tried Pad Thai at the food court on the ground floor, and honestly, it’s one of the best we’ve had in Bangkok.
5. Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
Bangkok’s Chinatown at night is like stepping into a completely different world. The neon lights, the bustling crowds, and the smell of sizzling street food are unforgettable. One of the highlights for us was trying rolled noodle soup at Nai Ek Rolled Noodles, a Michelin-rated spot. It was incredibly delicious, and we couldn’t believe how affordable it was—less than $5 USD per person for a meal we’re still talking about! We were also able to visit another time during lunar new year, and there were extra amounts of festive decorations there – the vibe was just amazing.
6. Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you love shopping, this market is heaven. We spent hours exploring the stalls, picking up souvenirs, and trying all kinds of street food. The coconut ice cream here is a must—it was so good, we went back for seconds!
7. Wat Arun
Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, was one of the most beautiful temples we’ve ever seen. Climbing to the top was a bit of a workout, but the views made it 100% worth it. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend going earlier in the morning since the crowds tend to arrive after 10am.
8. Grand Palace
The Grand Palace was the perfect way to end our trip. The intricate details of the buildings were breathtaking, and the entire complex felt like stepping into a different world. Just be wary of the common scam where someone tells you the palace is closed and tries to sell you a tuk-tuk tour—always check the hours online. Apart from that, it’s a huge and beautiful destination that you’ll want to take your time exploring.
Bangkok left such a lasting impression on us, and these spots made our first visit so memorable. Whether you’re into history, shopping, or just soaking up the energy of the city, these places are the perfect introduction to Bangkok.
