Top 15 Must-Do Tours in Bangkok

Known by the locals as Krung Thep (City of Angels), exploration of Bangkok will lead to countless discoveries. Vibrant, fascinating, and an eclectic mix of old and new, Bangkok is a city not to be overlooked. The capital of Thailand, Bangkok presents an intoxicating combination of ancient Buddhist temples, floating markets, lively nightlife, and even features a jungle. Traditional village dwellings coexist alongside expansive shopping malls, while food cart vendors promote their offerings, and nearby, upscale restaurants serve gourmet meals to discerning diners.

If you are considering a visit to Bangkok, you are in good company; millions of tourists flock here year after year. With an abundance of attractions and activities, how can you ensure you make the most of your vacation? Review some of the finest Bangkok tours and prepare to be enchanted by what this captivating city has to offer.

1. Bangkok: 2-Hour Wat Arun, Royal Barge & Longtail Boat Tour

Bangkok is often referred to as the Venice of the East, and what better method to explore than by riding a traditional long-tail boat?

Experience the essence of historic Bangkok by visiting the ancient city of Thonburi, and discover how the nobles traveled at the Royal Barge Museum.

Immerse yourself in the magnificence of Wat Arun (fondly known as the Temple of Dawn) and admire the central prang, an intricately designed pagoda adorned with substantial statues and vibrant tiles.

2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market 6-Hour Tour

Begin your journey with a visit to a traditional Thai residence and coconut plantation, where you can learn how locals produce brown coconut sugar. Subsequently, board a long-tail boat and set off toward Ratchaburi Province, home to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

A vibrant atmosphere envelops the market, as local vendors promote their products from market-stall-boats. They showcase fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a variety of delicious treats – including Pad Thai and Coconut Ice Cream; it is indeed a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

3. Bangkok Chinatown 3.5-Hour Night Food Tour

A visit to Bangkok would be incomplete without exploring Chinatown, a 200-year-old district renowned for some of the most exquisite culinary offerings worldwide. Familiarize yourself with this lively area, visit its landmarks, and engage with the locals. Sample traditional dishes; there are both fine-dining establishments as well as informal street food vendors providing quick and delightful meals.

The Dim Sum is exceptional, and it pairs wonderfully with a refreshing herbal beverage.

4. Bangkok Jungle Bike Tour: Morning or Afternoon Trip

Interested in cycling through the wilderness? If so, hop on a bike and exchange the city’s hustle for the tranquility of the jungle. Rest assured, you do not need to be a professional cyclist to partake in this tour, as it is not overly demanding (though there are a few narrow walkways that may pose a slight challenge).

A ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River is required to reach your destination, but this small effort is certainly rewarding. Your journey will take you through local villages, where you can observe a workshop producing incense. Along the way, you will also visit a temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period (approximately 250 years old). If interested, you may join a weekend tour to visit the floating market.

5. Kanchanaburi: River Kwai & Death Railway Tour from Bangkok

This tour is a delight for history enthusiasts. It offers an opportunity to view the iconic bridge over the River Kwai and allows time for contemplation as you explore Kanchanaburi Province, the site of numerous WWII memorials and museums.

The tour includes a ride along a segment of the Burma Railway (notoriously dubbed the Death Railway); learn about the origins of its grim nomenclature. Additionally, it encompasses a visit to the JEATH War Museum, which vividly illustrates the unfortunate conditions endured by the prisoners of war tasked with constructing the railway.

6. Baiyoke Sky Hotel: Observation Deck & Revolving Point Ticket

Standing at an impressive 309 meters, the Baiyoke Sky Hotel makes a striking presence against the Bangkok skyline.

For a panoramic view of the city, make your way to the 77th floor Observation Deck, then ascend further to the 84th floor, where you can appreciate the vista from all perspectives atop the revolving viewing platform.

Do not forget your camera; the vistas are nothing short of breathtaking.

7. Flexi Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun

Culture enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate this tour, which encompasses some of the most impressive attractions in Bangkok.

Marvel at the sacred Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram), distinguished by its gilded spires and radiant mosaics.

Lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby amulet community market.

Experience the grandeur of the imposing Grand Palace, historically significant as it served the Kings of Thailand and is currently utilized for important functions and worship.

You also have the opportunity to explore the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), with its pagoda and magnificent statues, and wander through the extensive grounds of Wat Pho, recognized by UNESCO as the birthplace of Thai massage.

8. Hop on Hop Off: Tuk Tuk & Tourist Boat on Chao Phraya River

Prefer to explore at your own pace? If so, consider a one-day pass that allows you to board a Tuk Tuk and Tourist Boat as frequently as you desire within a 24-hour timeframe. Tuk Tuk serves as one of the most enjoyable modes of transport in Bangkok; you can sit back and appreciate your surroundings while uncovering the charms of the old town.

The expansive Chao Phraya River also presents numerous opportunities for adventure; navigate along it aboard a tourist boat. Discover the city and indulge in what Bangkok has to offer at your relaxation.

9. Ayutthaya UNESCO Sites: Full-Day Guided Tour from Bangkok

Ayutthaya is home to an array of palaces and temples, and on this tour, you will have the chance to witness these remarkable sites firsthand.

Visit the 17th-century Bang Pa-in Palace, the summer residence of the Kings of Thailand. Prepare to be captivated by the colossal golden Buddha at Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit. Explore Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and its significance in archaeology and art.

Examine the antique ruins of Wat Mahathat and conclude your visit with a brief look at Wat Lokaya Sutha, home to the grand reclining Buddha.

10 Local’s Favorite Dishes: Secret Food Tour of Bangkok

Satiate your appetite by discovering local culinary delights and indulge your taste buds with Thailand’s street food.

Relish the Som Tam Tai (a vibrant papaya salad), savor delicious dim sum, and enjoy flavorful fish noodles, concluding your feast with a classic beer at a quaint local bar.

11. Bangkok Bar Crawl: Sukhumvit or Thonglor

Bangkok takes its nightlife seriously, and you would be remiss not to experience some of that lively atmosphere for yourself.

Participate in the Bangkok bar crawl on either a Wednesday or Thursday, exploring the local pubs, bars, and clubs of Sukhumvit or Thonglor (depending on your selected day). Ensure you are prepared for a night of enjoyment – the fun awaits.

12. From Bangkok: Full-Day Eco Zip Line Adventure with Transfers

Calling all adventure enthusiasts: embark on an experience that immerses you in the jungle canopy and ascends to heights above the ground. If you are comfortable with heights, this expedition is ideal. Learn about the delicate ecosystem as you traverse sky bridges and execute daring rappel descents.

Zip-line through the lush landscape, knowing that you are not only having fun but also contributing to conservation efforts.

13. Bangkok: Chinatown and Flower Market at Sunset Group Tour

Set off along the water in your private river taxi, taking in the magnificent scenery as you proceed toward your destination – Wat Saket (the Golden Mount).

Ascend the 344 steps to the temple, which may appear formidable, but the reward is invaluable; from the temple, you will witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets imaginable.

Following this, you will proceed to the vibrant and expansive Chinatown, where you can indulge in a walking tour and sample traditional culinary offerings.

Next, take a Tuk Tuk to explore the extensive flower market (the largest in Thailand) and conclude your evening with a visit to a lively night market.

14. Bangkok: Jim Thompson House and Baan Krua Community Tour

Discover the story of Jim Thompson, the American businessman renowned for revitalizing the Thai silk industry during the 1950s and 1960s.

Learn about the origins of this endeavor at the Baan Krua Silk village and treat yourself to a selection of authentic Thai silk.

Engage in a mystery as you uncover the circumstances surrounding Thompson’s disappearance in 1967, which remains unresolved to this day. Nevertheless, his legacy continues, and his name remains closely associated with the silk weaving industry.