25 Best Things to Do in Bangkok in 2025 – Temples, Street Food & Family-Friendly Fun
- Barry
- Mar 7
- 5 min read
Updated: 18 hours ago
Why Bangkok Belongs on Every Travel Bucket List
Planning your first trip and wondering about the best things to do in Bangkok? We spent July 2025 exploring Thailand’s capital with our two kids (ages 11 and 13)—and quickly discovered that Bangkok is so much more than just a stopover city.
From glittering temples and sizzling street food to breezy river ferries, rooftop views, and day trips to ancient ruins, the city is packed with experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a solo female traveler, a couple, or a family with kids, this guide will help you plan your ultimate Bangkok itinerary.
Use the table of contents to jump straight to what interests you most.
Table of Contents
Quick Picks: Top 10 Things to Do in Bangkok
If you only have a few days, don’t miss these highlights:
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew – Bangkok’s most famous landmark
Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha & traditional massage school
Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn at sunrise or sunset
Chao Phraya River Ferry – Scenic rides between temples & markets
Jim Thompson House – History & silk weaving
Erawan Shrine – Iconic downtown cultural spot
SEA LIFE Bangkok – Great with kids on hot afternoons
Lumphini Park – Monitor lizards & paddle boats
ICONSIAM – Indoor floating market & riverside mall
Bangkok Rooftop Bars – Lebua Sky Bar or Banyan Tree Vertigo
Tip: Stay close to a BTS Skytrain station for easy access — see our Bangkok family hotels guide →
Temples in Bangkok (Top 5 to Visit)
Temples aren’t just monuments — they’re living history. Even our pre-teen was captivated by the stories behind these places.
1. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Home to the Emerald Buddha
Open daily 8:30–15:30
Dress code: long trousers, no sleeveless tops
Tip: Arrive before 09:00 to avoid crowds.
2. Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Golden Buddha statue (46 meters long)
Traditional Thai massage school onsite
Family-friendly and less crowded than the Palace.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Best at sunrise or sunset
Kids love climbing the central spire (steep steps).
4. Golden Mount (Wat Saket)
Peaceful hilltop with 360° views
Great escape from the city buzz.
5. Erawan Shrine
Easy stop near Siam malls
Quick cultural visit with frequent dance performances.
Bangkok Street Food: Where & What to Eat
Bangkok is a street food paradise — delicious, cheap, and family-friendly.
Where to Go
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) – Bustling night markets & seafood
Soi Rambuttri – Quieter alternative to Khao San Road
Victory Monument – Famous for boat noodles
Must-Try Dishes
Pad Thai – Stir-fried noodles, shrimp or tofu
Mango Sticky Rice – Always a kid favorite
Boat Noodles – Fun small bowls, easy to share
Roti Pancakes – Try banana + Nutella
Amazon tip: Bring a refillable water bottle or kids’ cutlery set for hassle-free meals.
Family-Friendly Day Trips from Bangkok
With 3–4 days in the city, add at least one day trip.
Ayutthaya
UNESCO World Heritage ruins & temples
1 hr by train from Bangkok
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Boat rides through colorful market stalls
Fun for photos & early risers
Maeklong Railway Market
Watch a train pass through a market — unforgettable for kids.
Also read: Bangkok family travel costs guide →
Where to Shop in Bangkok (That Kids Will Love)
MBK Center – Arcades, snacks, and bargain shopping
Siam Paragon – SEA LIFE aquarium + luxury stores
Chatuchak Weekend Market – Souvenirs, clothes, street snacks
Asiatique The Riverfront – Ferris wheel + riverside dining
ICONSIAM – Modern mall with indoor floating market
Amazon tip: Lightweight NORTH FACE daypacks are perfect for markets →
Bangkok at Night: Rooftops & Night Markets
When the sun sets, Bangkok transforms.
Lebua Sky Bar – Iconic rooftop (dress code applies)
Banyan Tree Vertigo – Upscale rooftop with sweeping views
Talad Rot Fai Night Market – Vintage vibes & retro snacks
Asiatique – Family-friendly night stroll
Also read our Best ways to get around Bangkok with kids →
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Our tested family picks:
Akara Hotel Bangkok – Rooftop pool, central, near transit
La Petite Salil Sukhumvit 11 – Quiet nights, easy access
Hotel Clover Asoke – Female-friendly & safe solo choice
Full guide here: Where to Stay in Bangkok with Kids →
FAQ: Things to Know Before You Go
Is Bangkok safe for solo female travelers?
Yes. Stick to well-lit areas, use Grab, and stay near BTS/MRT stations.
Can kids eat street food in Bangkok?
Absolutely! Choose busy stalls, avoid raw dishes, and start mild.
What’s the best way to get around Bangkok?
BTS/MRT for day trips, river boats for sightseeing, Grab at night.
Do I need a dress code for temples?
Yes. Knees & shoulders covered. Sarongs available for rent/purchase.
How many days do I need in Bangkok?
Plan 3–4 full days for the highlights plus one optional day trip.
Internal link: Plan smarter with our Best time to visit Bangkok →
Final Thoughts: Bangkok Will Win Your Heart
From sunrise at Wat Arun to late-night snacks in Yaowarat, these are the essential things to do in Bangkok. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, the city offers just the right balance of adventure and comfort.
Or dive deeper in our full Bangkok Travel Guide 2025 →.
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