The magic of Thailand is not lost on anyone who has travelled there. There is a serene feel to this country, and to its capital Bangkok, that is truly unique in the world today. Bangkok, for its part, is however not just a Buddhist idyll - there are plenty of modern attractions to visit, opportunities for excellent shopping and the chance to eat in excellent restaurants every night. More than anything, the city is visually stunning everywhere you turn. If you’re someone who enjoys posting your holiday snaps to social media, you’ll get a lot of enjoyment out of a holiday in Bangkok - and with our guide to the most Instagrammable places in Bangkok, you can be sure you’re getting the best snaps.
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1. Wat Arun (from USD 122.61)
This breathtaking Buddhist temple is one of the can’t-miss sights you’ll see on any trip to Bangkok. To give it its full name, the Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan - whose name translates as “Temple of Dawn” - is one of the best-known landmarks in all of Thailand. The temple itself was built in the 17th century, with its famous spires (or prang) added in the 19th century, and a restoration in 2017 brought it back to its best. It’s one of the most important buildings in Bangkok and, if you’re coming to this city, you must see it up close, and of course, Insta-click the same.
Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Private Tour
Duration: 5.0 hour
2. Jim Thompson House (from USD 54.0)
The story of Jim Thompson is an intriguing one. American-born, he settled in Bangkok after the Second World War and, beguiled by the dormant Thai practice of silk-weaving, set about reviving the art himself. In the 1960s, while on holiday in Malaysia, Thompson went missing suddenly and was never seen nor heard from again. To this day, no-one knows what happened but his home, which houses an incredible collection of curios, silk, ornaments and more besides, has become a key tourist spot in his adopted home city. It’s well worth a visit and a few Insta-shots if you’re in Bangkok.
Jim Thompson’s Story of Silk
Duration: 3 hours
3. The Grand Palace (from USD 32.0)
In central Bangkok, you’ll find a large complex of buildings which used to form the residence of the Thai Royal Family. The Grand Palace may no longer be “home” to the monarchy, but it remains an official building and is used for official events and state pageantry on a regular basis. This, and its stunning golden edifice have made it perhaps the most recognisable tourist destination in the entire city - and it’s well worth an Instagram update, particularly if you’re in town at the time of a major event.
Tip from tour guide
The Royal Grand Palace & The Royal Temple are the perfect introductions to Thailand’s architecture, culture and tradition. You can also visit the highlight attractions around this complex, such as The Royal Temple (Wat Phra Kaew, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha), The Golden Chedi, Pantheon of the Chakri’s Kings, a miniature replica of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Coronation Throne Hall and Royal Reception Hall.
Tip from Content Creator
Don't miss visiting the Grand Palace if you're in Bangkok! This iconic landmark truly took my breath away with its stunning and ornate architectural details, vibrant colors and grandeur. It truly felt like we had discovered the Lost City (living my Outer Banks fantasy here!).
Some highlights and tips:
- Wat Phra Kaew - the Temple of the Emerald Buddha: Remove your shoes and kneel in front of the iconic emerald Buddha, which is adorned in seasonal outfits and sits atop a pyramid of gold. Sit and soak up the tranquility and spirituality of this sacred place. (Photography is not allowed in this area).
- Gardens: Stroll through the lush and picturesque gardens and courtyards. The flowers, fountains and statues are quite impressive and a contrast to the busy city outside the gates.
- Dress code: Covered shoulders and knees are required, plus, no shorts are allowed for men. Hats and shoes must be removed before entering the temples. They are very strict with their dress code, and as tourists, we must be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
- When to visit: Visit as early in the day as possible to avoid the heat and to beat the crowds and get some amazing photos.
- Entry fee: 500 THB for tourists (14 USD) I recommend visiting Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) after. It is within walking distance of the Grand Palace and the perfect way to start your morning in Bangkok.
The Grand Palace Bangkok Entrance Ticket With Hotel Pick Up
Duration: 3 hours
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4. Wat Pho (from USD 37.56)
This splendid temple, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is another of the remarkable gilded temples which give Bangkok its signature aesthetic - but it’s more than just a (very) pretty picture. Wat Pho is recognised as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, which is still taught there, and there is also a school of Thai medicine on the site. On top of this, it is the oldest centre for public education in all of Bangkok, making it a building of huge historical significance.
Tip from tour guide
Located in the heart of Bangkok, Wat Pho is one of the city's most important temples. I recommend that every tourist interested in learning about Thai history and culture visit it. But more than that, the reclining Buddha statue is a perfect place to take pictures for your tour diary. The giant golden statue with its head resting on its hand isn't something you get to see every day.
Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour
Duration: 2.0 to 4.0 hour
Bangkok Tour Guide
Arnon Aramnun
Hello My name is Arnon. I live in Bangkok I love to be guide Traveler and show you where's amazing of Thailand, you will know more about Thailand and get a great memory with new friends. I can guarantee you an outstanding experience with fun activities and knowledge on Thai history. I like to travel very much and i like to find some delicious food to taste, You'll have the chance to enjoy an... Read more
Tours by Arnon
Bangkok Tour Guide
Chob Panma
I love my job and sharing my experience about Bangkok, Thailand, to make sure that the customers will feel comfortable with the city and have a wonderful experience back home.
Tours by Chob
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5. Dream World (from USD 26.0)
While Bangkok is justly famous for its temples and schools of medicine, it has more than one level on which it can be encaptured. This is best exemplified by Dream World, a superb theme park which will be well-received by members of the family both young and old. Amusements include regular shows and thrilling rides such as the Speedy Mouse. Meanwhile, the Colours of the World parade featuring famous cartoon characters will amuse and delight everyone in your party.
Dream World Bangkok Admission Ticket: 4 Options
Duration: 1 day
6. Unicorn Cafe
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
What would you expect from an establishment that refers to itself as the “Unicorn Cafe”? If you’ve got a picture in your mind right now, it’s probably pretty accurate for this heavenly slice of kitsch in the Silom neighbourhood of Bangkok. Indeed, this is a spot that could have been designed for Instagrammers - you can even borrow a unicorn onesie for selfies! The decor is heavily unicorn-influenced, with pink a dominant colour. The food? Well, everything you’ll order comes with a little horn on the top, and much of the menu is also rainbow-coloured. It would be easy to be cynical about a place like this - but if you have an ounce of innocence or romance in your heart, it’s hard to deny the attraction.
Unicorn Cafe
Address: 44/1 Soi Sathon 8, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500,
Opening hours 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm every day except Monday
Website: Unicorn Cafe
7. Khao Yai National Park (from USD 162.57)
Khao Yai is one of Thailand’s largest, and arguably its most fascinating, national parks. Covering upwards of 300 square kilometres (115 square miles), it is filled with forest and grassland. Most interestingly, it is also home to a large number of native species - animals, birds and plants. Here you will have the chance to see Asian black bears, coral-billed ground cuckoo and much more besides. In addition, there are stunning waterfalls to see - an ideal nature walk that features something new around every corner.
Khao Yai National Park: Waterfalls - Heaw narok & Heaw Suwat
Duration: 10.0 to 12.0 hour
8. Floating Markets (from USD 19.29)
Bangkok’s floating markets are a famous part of the city’s culture - the famous Chao Praya river flows through the city, and its waterways are thronged in places by these fascinating markets selling souvenirs of the city as well as food both hot and cold. There are more than a few markets on the outskirts, but even within the city, you’ll find the famous floating stalls, including at markets such as the famous Khlong Lat Mayom - which is perhaps the most authentic example of this kind of market. Here you will find noodle soups, fresh fruit and veg and much more besides, but more importantly, you’ll find the real Bangkok, Instagrammable, memorable!
Tip from tour guide
Damnern Saduak Floating Market is Thailand’s most famous floating market. "Floating" because, mostly, the vendors are in small paddle boats. There are many of these boats with the vendors in characteristic straw hats coming and going on one day to sell their produce, mainly foodstuffs from the surrounding farms and household items.
From Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Guided Tour
Duration: 6.0 hour
9. King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk
This is one of the best spots for a panoramic view of the city. The 314-m (1030.18-ft) main outdoor observation deck is the highest in Thailand. I visited this landmark a couple of years ago and the overhanging all-glass floor is a popular Instagrammabale spot. The deck and the glass floor are on the 78th floor, while Mahanakhon Observatory is on the 74th floor. The most popular time to visit the SkyWalk is at dusk. We waited almost 45 minutes to purchase our tickets, but it’s now possible to book your tickets online, which will shorten the wait time.
When I visited, the rooftop also included a bar, one of the highest in the city. In addition to tables, the bar offered intimate cushion seating on the outdoor stairs, which was the perfect spot to view the sunset. The building also includes a King Power duty-free outlet where tourists can shop.
King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk
Address: 114 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Website: King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
10. Asiatique The Riverfront
Bangkok is famous for its markets, especially its night markets, and Asiatique is one of its first organized night markets. It is located by the river on an old warehouse plot and includes a mix of stand-alone stores. Asiatique could be better described as an open-air mall with its landscaping, paved paths, and activities. While tourists come here primarily to shop, locals visit to dine and spend some quality time with friends and family. I personally love aimlessly browsing through the shops while munching on street snacks with my friends.
There are some brand-name stores here, but most are independent shops or small local designers. There are more than 1,000 shops and they sell clothes, aromatherapy, handmade candles, and fresh juices. If you can think of it, there is a high chance you will find it at Asiatique. The market also includes a Ferris While, haunted mansion, and carousel rides for children.
While it is possible to drive or take a cab to reach here, it is faster to take the BTS and then hop onto the complimentary ferry.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Address: 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Phrayakrai District Bangkor Laem, Bngkok 10120
Website: Asiatique The Riverfront
Opening hours: 11am - 12am (daily)
11. After the Rain Coffee & Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thailand has some nice laidback cafes that you can spend hours in. After the Rain Coffee & Gallery is an unassuming cafe on the outskirts of the city. But once you step inside, you realize why it’s one of the most popular cafes in the city.
This cafe was all over my Instagram feed right before my trip to Bangkok. It sits along a canal and is surrounded by coconut trees. What sets this place apart is that guests can take a scenic boat ride along the canal. The ride makes for a wonderful photo-op that you can post on Instagram.
After the Rain Coffee & Gallery
Address: 45 8, Song Khanong, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom 73210, Thailand
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
12. Maeklong Railway Market (from USD 31.56)
It’s fair to say Bangkok is a city of surprises, and one of the biggest surprises you’ll witness is a train driving through the middle of the market in which you were shopping just moments before. That’s what awaits you at the enthralling Maeklong Railway Market; one moment you’ll be shopping for groceries and taking in the local colour. The next, you’ll hear a whistle and the stallholders will be moving to pull their specially-designed stalls back from the trackside as a real, live train drives past. Odd? Yes. Hashtag-worthy? Definitely!
Tip from tour guide
The train market of Maeklong is unique in every sense of the word! Built literally on the tracks, the shops are moved when the train begins its journey through the middle of the market. As you stroll along the tracks between the colorful stalls, your local guide will explain how not even the trains can stop the hustle & bustle of this iconic market!
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Train Market Tour
Duration: 6 hour
13. Baiyoke Sky Tower (from USD 31.0)
The Baiyoke Sky Tower is the tallest skyscraper in all of Bangkok, towering over the rest of the city and simultaneously being impressive to look at while also offering an amazing vantage point for amazing Insta-snaps. At 85 storeys high, it offers hundreds of hotel rooms (some with, as you’d imagine, spectacular views), as well as restaurants and, on the 77th floor, a free public observatory. On the 83rd floor, meanwhile, there is an excellent bar and lounge which offers a 360-degree revolving roof deck. The views from there are better, but you’ll need to pay around 400 Baht (around USD 15) to experience them.
BAIYOKE SKY DINNER 76 or 78 FLOOR IN BANGKOK
Brilliant, beautiful Bangkok
The famously stunning scenery of Bangkok will draw your eye from the moment you set foot in the city, and you’ll fall in love with the classic Thai aesthetic from early on. Whether it’s a Buddhist temple, or something as kitschy as a unicorn-themed cafe, there is something new to look at wherever you go. Just make sure to bring your phone with you so you can preserve the stunning visual memories of this remarkable Instagrammable city.
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