I was so excited to go to Bangkok– and I absolutely loved it. I know the concrete jungle isn’t for everyone, but being from New York and not having been back since May, I was craving a weekend in the big city. Having a ton of people around me and public transportation brought me back to life… (if only for a moment – damn wisdom tooth pain) I was definitely looking for a handful of things to do in Bangkok.
If you only have a few days to spend in Bangkok, there are some key things you just need to see while you’re there!
And if I have to offer one tip, do not get into a cab that will not run the meter! Your taxi ride should not be expensive and people will try to over charge you ALL OF THE TIME.
1. Head to a Rooftop Bar.
There are a ton of rooftops around Bangkok… After The Hangover Part II came out, people flocked to Sky Bar. Keep in mind that if you want to head here to watch the sunset, it gets PACKED. And if you want to go somewhere that may not be as crowded, but still has a killer view, check out Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar, which can be found at the Marriott. Remember, drinks will be on the pricier side at these rooftop spots, but its totally worth it to catch one of the best city sunsets you’ll ever see.
2. Party on Khao San Road.
If you’re looking to dance all night, taste a scorpion, or have a wild time that you probably won’t remember in the morning, Khao San Road is the place to go. Order a bucket, converse with fellow backpackers and expect to have an amazing night. (sorry for no photo, but I had a great night with friends and forgot to take one!)
3. Visit a Floating Market
Unfortunately we did not have enough time to get to a floating market as most of them are about 100 km outside of the city, but I promise I will be back to visit one! Arrive early before they get too touristy… If you get there just after sunrise you will find vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables from their boats… Arrive too late in the morning, and you’ll be buying beer and souvenirs instead.
4. Check out The Grand Palace or Wat Pho.
I have to put this on the list with a disclaimer that I did not venture into The Grand Palace as it was too crowded for me and a bit too pricey for someone on a teacher salary in Thailand. It costs about 500 baht to get in and you should arrive very early to avoid the craziness (it will still be kind of crazy no matter what). But, if you aren’t into the crowds and want to see a gorgeous temple, walk down the street to Wat Pho, where the Reclining Buddha resides. Walk around the large temple and admire the beautiful details throughout the grounds.
5. Canal Cruising
When you first thing of Bangkok, you think of a huge city… You don’t immediately think about all of the other, smaller parts of the city. Taking a boat ride down the canals of Bangkok was truly an eye-opening experience. It was really interesting to see how many people live and to see the juxtaposition of the housing around the canal with the big city of downtown Bangkok. They drop you off right by the Grand Palace so it was perfect to do before we headed to that side of town.
