Things To Do in Bangkok

Article by Gabrielle Narcy
If you are traveling in South East Asia, Bangkok is a must! Many begin their journey with a visit to this city; others are calling for a day or two at the end of their stay, before returning home.
Whatever the reason you are in Bangkok, continue reading to discover a top 10 things to see and do in this colorful city!
Discover also our article on the Best in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia ...), the most beautiful cities and regions to see on your trip enThaïlande, where to party in Thailand and our anti-Guide Bangkok things DO NOT Bangkok. And if you find the winter a bit cold and gloomy, quickly discover our article on Where to go in the sun this winter!

Take a cruise along the Chao Phraya River
This is an excellent way to explore the city! Bangkok has been called a time of "Venice of the East" and when you go down the river with its many canals, you quickly understand why. The views are magnificent and give you the opportunity to see many of the main interests of the city, like the Grand Palace, the yard of the Royal Thai Navy and Wat Arun. 
Tours depart from all major piers and does not break the bank, even if prices and itineraries vary slightly. It is best to compare, but with routes from only 10 baht (0.24) with Express Boats, you do not have much to worry about the price! 
If you're feeling adventurous mood, you can take a boat to Koh Kret, a small island on the Chao Phraya River. The island itself is nothing special (though pretty!) But it will give you a chance to have a perspective on the real size of Bangkok and its surrounding suburbs. 

Tip: Try to leave early in the morning because the river is particularly beautiful at dawn, with the golden hues of the sun on Wat Arun.

Visit the Grand Palais
The Grand Palace is Bangkok's most famous attraction, to do at any cost. Built in 1782, the Palace is a vast complex with captivating beauty that was the residence of the Thai King. Today, the King has several residences, but the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Thailand, and when you visit you will be impressed by the beauty of the architecture and complexity of craftsmanship that are under your eyes. 
The ideal is to spend several hours to visit the Grand Palace, in order to have time to enjoy the many beautiful buildings and magnificent paintings that make up the building. However, if you only have an hour or two to devote to this visit, be sure to take a look at Wat Phra Kaew priority (or "Temple of the Emerald Buddha"). This temple houses the revered Emerald Buddha, which dates from the 14th century. Fully decorated and adorned with precious stones, it alone is worth the price far from the entrance. Other things to see at the Grand Palais include Boromabiman Hall, Hall of Justice and the Amarinda Hall - the first residence of King Rama 1. 
If you're lucky enough to be in Bangkok when the King comes to change the habit of the Emerald Buddha in March, July or November, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience because activity completely stops in town for the occasion to make room for incredible celebrations. Tickets cost 200 baht (5 euros). 

Tip: If you plan to go inside the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, make sure you are dressed properly. The Emerald Buddha is the most sacred site in Thailand and therefore you must have a friendly attitude. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, while women must wear also wear "decent" clothes. Summary: covered shoulders and no transparent clothing.