5 Things You Must See and Do in Bangkok Besides the Grand Palace

We’ve all seen the “Must See” lists and each one includes the same things over and over again (ie. Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, Patpong, China Town, Coral Island). This list is different. Why? Because it invites you to do things you may not of thought of while planning your exciting adventure!

Whether you have 2 days or 2 months to stay in fabulous Bangkok, Thailand, this is a list of things you have to put on your to do list. After spending several weeks in the bustling city, I was able to familiarize myself with the intriguing population, the mind-boggling temples and, of course, the delicious food. So, without further ado, my list of “Five More Things You Must See and Do in Bangkok.” In no particular order.

Eat on the streets – Sounds easy enough, right? But for how easy (and inexpensive) it is to eat at a street diner, I saw hardly any tourists doing it. Eating on the street may seem less than sanitary, but bear in mind that Thai people are scrupulously clean and are known for their good food. I’m telling you, street food is not only cheap (usually less than $1USD for 1 person) but it is a lot better than what you’ll find in the bigger restaurants. Find a location that seems to be getting a lot of local business and have a seat. They more than likely have an English menu and if not, ask someone to tell you what they have!

Go to the movie theatre – Go to the theater? On vacation? I know, bogus, right? Trust me on this one. Bangkok is renowned for having some of the best theaters in the world and sitting inside the cool, air-conditioned building on a hot and muggy afternoon will brighten anyone’s spirits! One of the city’s most highly regarded theatre is at Siam Paragon off BTS stop “Siam.”

Opt for a “VIP” pass, which is under $30 per couple depending on the exchange rate. You’ll be ushered into a VIP lounge for pre-movie cocktails and snacks. Once you’re finished they’ll escort you to the lux Nokia theatre and offer table-side service (try the strawberry popcorn)! The seats are set up in pairs, come with pillows/blankets and are better than your typical La-Z-Boy.

*Be sure to stand for the national anthem and pay respect to the king.

Eat at the Moon Bar and Grill – This has to be one of the most romantic places in the entire world and boasts the best view of Bangkok. You’ll be swept up 59 stories and take the final 2 stories up to the top where you’ll find an al fresco 5-star restaurant. Even if you’re not there with a significant other (or have children tagging along), this is definitely a treat. It’s one of the more expensive places to go in Bangkok, but when you consider how much you’d pay for similar treatment in the States, your pocketbook will feel at ease. The Moon Bar and Grill is located atop The Banyon Tree Hotel off BTS Sala Daeng.

Take the water taxi to a non-tourist area – It’s nice to be around English-speakers, but you’ll feel at ease in a non-touristy part of town, too. Take the water taxi (because it has a great view) to no where in particular and get off at a place where few (if any) foreigners opt to go. Walk the side streets and enjoy the break from touts and tuk-tuk’s calling in your direction!

Enjoy drinks on the river – Head to a location along the Chao Phraya river via Tuk-Tuk, taxi or water taxi at twilight and sit yourself next to the edge of the water. Order something fabulous (such as a ‘Bangkok Dream’ or ‘Singapore Sling’) and watch the boats float pass. A great place to go is right across from Wat Arun – you’ll have a great view and the food/drinks are wonderful!

Good luck on your Bangkok Adventure! If you liked this travel article, check out my other work!