Things to do in Bangkok

From royal palaces to riverside markets, these are the Bangkok attractions and tourist destinations in Bangkok that most visitors put on their list, and the places to go to in Bangkok whether you're planning a 3-day itinerary or a longer stay.

• Visit the Grand Palace and Bangkok's temples: The Grand Palace is Bangkok's most famous landmark and home to Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Nearby, Wat Pho houses the giant Reclining Buddha and is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Cross the river by ferry to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, whose spires are decorated with porcelain and coloured glass. Temples are active places of worship, so dress modestly, with your shoulders and knees covered, and take off your shoes where signs ask you to. Arriving early in the morning helps you avoid the heat and the biggest crowds.

• Explore the Chao Phraya River and canals: The Chao Phraya River runs through the heart of Bangkok, and many of the main attractions sit along its banks. Riding the public river boats is one of the easiest ways to see the city, and long-tail boat tours of the Thonburi canals (khlongs) show a quieter side of Bangkok, with wooden houses and temples along the water.

• Browse Bangkok's markets and shopping districts: Markets in Bangkok range from the huge Chatuchak Weekend Market, with thousands of stalls selling clothes, homewares, plants and art, to evening markets with food stalls and live music. For shopping in Bangkok's malls, head to the Siam area, where several large shopping centres sit close together along the BTS Skytrain line.

• Walk through Chinatown: Bangkok's Chinatown, centred on Yaowarat Road, comes alive in the evening, when street food stalls fill the footpaths. During the day, explore its narrow lanes, gold shops and Chinese temples.

• Relax in Lumphini Park and Bangkok's green spaces: Lumphini Park is a green break in the middle of the city, with walking paths, a lake and outdoor exercise areas. Early morning is the coolest time to visit. Jim Thompson House, a collection of traditional Thai teak houses and gardens, is another calm spot close to the Siam shopping district.

• Take a day trip from Bangkok: Several popular day trips and tours in Bangkok go to places within a couple of hours of the city. The ancient capital of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its temple ruins. To the south-west, the floating markets, such as Damnoen Saduak, let you shop from boats on the canals. If you're continuing your trip, the Phuket City Travel Guide, Krabi City Travel Guide and Chiang Mai City Travel Guide can help you plan the next leg.

Outdoor activities in Bangkok

Some of the most fun things to do in Bangkok happen outdoors. Cycling tours through the green, car-free lanes of Bang Krachao, kayaking on the canals and walking tours of the Old Town are popular ways to explore, and many travellers try a Muay Thai class while they're in the city.

Before you book, it's worth checking how your activities are treated by your travel insurance, as some may need the Adventure Pack. For example, with Fast Cover, bicycle tours with a licensed tour operator are automatically included under our Covered Sports and Leisure Activities, while martial arts such as Muay Thai need the optional Adventure Pack and are limited to basic training (no sparring and no competition).* The Adventure Pack is available to travellers aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue.*

Always check both the Covered Sports and Leisure Activities and the Adventure Pack activities in the PDS for the conditions that apply.

Always check the eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.