[Updated: February 2025]
Thailand’s capital city attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the globe every year. It offers tourists a unique set of characteristics – it is the largest and most developed city in Thailand but manages to maintain its historical architecture and traditions dating back hundreds of years. Bangkok, which is for most a jumping off point for Thailand holidays, is packed with everything from excitement and chaos, to freedom, beauty, and adventure. Through the hustle and bustle, gigantic skyscrapers, grand palaces and temples, and a world-renowned floating market, Bangkok continues to attract millions of travellers from around the world.
Here are 10 reasons why Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world today.
1. Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn
Photo credit: @fischerfotos via Flickr
Wat Arun isn’t just another temple—it’s a Bangkok icon. Perched on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the Grand Palace, its towering 70-metre spire is decked out in colourful glass and Chinese porcelain. Up for a challenge? Climb the steep steps for epic skyline views. While it’s called the Temple of Dawn, it’s pure magic at night, lighting up the river in a golden glow.
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2. Floating markets
Photo credit: @archer10 via Flickr
This is one sight you won’t see anywhere else other than in Southeast Asia. Picture this – anchored on either side of the river, boats stocked to the brim with fresh tropical fruit and veggies, coconut juice, and local food which has been lovingly tendered on open grills. The best way to go about exploring Bangkok’s floating markets is to hop aboard one of the many guided boat tours on offer. The 3 most popular floating markets in Bangkok are Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Klong Lat Mayom with Damnoen Saduak being the most popular floating market in the country.
3. Khao San Road
Khao San Road is where East meets West in a whirlwind of backpackers, party lovers, and pure chaos. Famous for its wild nightlife and budget-friendly stays, it’s a rite of passage for young travelers in Bangkok. By day, it’s a hub of cheap eats and guesthouses, but when the sun sets, the street comes alive—mobile bars mix up “deadly” cocktail buckets, music blasts from every corner, and the crowds keep the party going till dawn.
4. The Grand Palace
Built in 1782 and once the home of the Thai King, the royal court and the administrative seat of government, Bangkok’s Grand Palace is the most glorified and world-renowned landmark in the capital. Here all you architectural and culture junkies can lose yourselves in the ancient designs of the diverse array of Buddhist sculptures and temples that flow through the vicinity. Most popular amongst tourists has to be Wat Phra Kaew, in English the “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”. The 14th century Emerald Buddha, revered by all Thais, is a highlight too.
5. Soi Cowboy
In Thai, Soi means “street”. This particular street got its name in the 1970s when the first bar was opened by a real American, Stetson-wearing cowboy. Bangkok is a sex-oriented city, a characteristic that won’t go unnoticed unless you stay indoors at night, and Soi Cowboy is recognised as the epicentre of the city’s Red Light District. It’s very different from Amsterdam’s Red Light District; bars line the street, the “Hello, welcome!” yells from girls becomes a familiar sound as you walk by. Here you can simply have a good time with your friends over a couple of drinks although you will definitely get some attention from the bar girls who will most likely try to get a few drinks out of you. Many of the bars have dancers and you are more than welcome to take a seat around the stage and enjoy the show.
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6. The Thai massage
Photo credit: @thaibanyanmassage via Flickr
Thailand has developed an international reputation for their massage techniques, and with the non-stop shopping, temple visits and sleepless nights, a Thai massage will set you in good stead for the remainder of your trip. Thai massages generally cost about 250 Baht (R110) for an hour of relaxation and stress relief. The fatigued traveller can also choose between a Thai oil massage; head, neck and back massage; foot massage; and many more. Massage parlours can be found all over Bangkok and you will levitate from the doors when it’s over. From someone who has travelled throughout Thailand, trust me – you will not regret this choice.
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7. Tailored suits
Photo credit: @xar via Flickr
Bangkok is famous for its street-side tailors, but not all suits are made equal. If you’re short on time, avoid the cheap, quick options. For a quality tailored suit at a much better price than you’d find in the West, plan for a 1-2 week wait. If you’re only in town for a few days, and plan to return, don’t pay upfront—just make sure to pick up your suit on your next visit. Expect to pay around R3500 to R7000 for top-notch suits. Some of the best tailors in the city are Narin Couture, Rajawongse Clothier, Perry’s, and July Tailor.
8. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Thailand’s market culture is iconic, and Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is the ultimate hotspot. Spanning 35 acres with over 8,000 stalls, it’s the largest market in the city, drawing 200,000 visitors every weekend. From food and antiques to clothes, art, and unique treasures, the variety is unbeatable. It’s chaotic, crowded, and not for everyone—but if you love hunting for rare finds and unbeatable deals, Chatuchak is a must-see.
9. Sky Bar and Hotel
At 88 stories, this is Thailand’s tallest building, offering stunning views that stretch across the entire Bangkok skyline. The sleek, cylindrical structure isn’t just for luxury stays—its Sky Bar, the highest in the country, is perfect for a drink with a view. For the ultimate experience, head to the 360-degree rotating viewpoint at the top. Pay the cover charge, and you’ll get a free drink voucher while soaking in the best panoramic views of Bangkok.
10. Bang Krachao Gardens
Claim some green respite from the sprawling concrete jungle by visiting the Bang Krachao Gardens. Known to many as the lungs of Bangkok, the sheer natural beauty of Bang Krachao Gardens includes walking trails and beds packed to the brim with lush tropical trees, lakes, and raised embankments which pass unique houses on stilts built along the Chao Phraya River’s edge.
Bangkok is arguably the largest and most developed city in Southeast Asia and years ahead of the majority of other cities and towns that scatter the Kingdom of Thailand. I urge you to go and see for yourself why the fuss about Bangkok exists.
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