Why visit? The 151-foot (46-meter) gold reclining Buddha statue at Wat Phra Chetuphon, also called Wat Pho, is one of Bangkok's largest. In addition viewing the ornate temple, take advantage of massages offered at the on-site massage school.

Why visit? The 270-foot (82-meter) tower of this 18th-century temple is a Bangkok icon. See Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) from the river at night, soak up views from the top, or enjoy floral mosaics and Buddhist murals.

Why visit? One of the world’s largest outdoor markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market delivers sensory overload every Saturday and Sunday. Chow down on street food, shop spices, souvenirs, jewelry, or clothing, or soak up the atmosphere at the bustling, noisy market.

Why visit? The 1967 disappearance of Jim Thompson (an American intelligence officer turned silk tycoon) sparks conspiracy theories even now. His former home—crafted from antique Thai houses—hosts gorgeous Asian arts and artifacts amid jungle grounds.

Why visit? Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) is home to the exquisite Emerald Buddha, carved from jade around 700 years ago. Part of the Grand Palace, this 18th-century temple is a top Bangkok attraction.

Why visit? An artificial hill topped with a gold “chedi,” or pagoda, the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) offers 360-degree views across Bangkok after a climb. History buffs appreciate Wat Saket’s 18th-century murals.

Why visit? A landmark mall with an enormous food court, Siam Paragon stocks luxury brands from Chanel to Chopard, plus a smattering of mainstream brands. Head to the basement for Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World.

Why visit? Gilded and gleaming, the Chinatown Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) is home to the 18-karat gold Buddha, which weighs in at six tons (5.5 metric tons), and is about 10 feet (3 meters) tall.

Why visit? Bangkok’s signature transport system, the BTS Skytrain elevated subway network, lets you beat the traffic and soak up city views, too. It’s cheap and quick—at least outside of peak hours (7–9am and 4–7pm).

Why visit? Whether you’re exploring by water bus or enjoying a dinner cruise, no Bangkok visit is complete without a Chao Phraya River adventure. From glistening temples to tranquil islands, it’s the artery that feeds this waterfront city.

Why visit? It's hard to miss King Power Mahanakhon, towering 78 stories above Bangkok. Soak up 360-degree views from its 74th-floor observation deck, go even higher to brave the glass-floored skywalk, or sip a rooftop cocktail.

Why visit? Once the center of Thai government and now Bangkok’s top tourist attraction, the 54-acre (22-hectare) Grand Palace was built in the 1780s. Explore the glittering grounds, four buildings, and the Emerald Buddha temple.

Why visit? There are many malls in Bangkok, and Terminal 21 is the one for kitsch fans. Each of its nine floors are city themed, with a miniature Eiffel Tower in “Paris” and a Golden Gate Bridge in “San Francisco.”

Why visit? An oasis of green in the heart of Bangkok, Lumpini Park is people-watching heaven. Pedal a swan boat, join a workout, feast on street food, catch a concert, or soak up the rays.

Why visit? The waterfront warehouse zone known as Asiatique The Riverfront is part traditional night market and part modern open-air mall. Shop souvenirs or bargain hunt, eat street food, watch cabarets, ride the Ferris wheel, and more.

Why visit? Icon Siam is home to hundreds of luxury brand stores. The huge mall opened in 2018 and offers a wealth of entertainment, including shopping (from traditional crafts to high-end labels), catching a concert, and dining out.

Why visit? Safari World is a top Thailand animal attraction, and it includes a drive-through African savannah where you can see tigers, lions, and giraffes. Watch animal performances, from dolphins to birds, and visit its marine park.

Why visit? The poisonous snakes at the Snake Farm, part of Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, yield antivenoms—the cure for snakebite. See a wealth of species, visit the small museum, or watch a snake-handling demonstration or venom extraction session.

Why visit? Muay thai—a brutal, fast-paced martial art that’s similar to kickboxing—is Thailand’s national sport. Feel the drama at the historic Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium, which was completed in 1945. Catch matches four nights a week.

Why visit? On a sleepy canal in Bangkok’s outskirts sits the quiet, weekend-only Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market. Street food is a specialty, with a few chefs on water and plenty on land cooking up a storm.

Why visit? Spread across five floors in north Bangkok, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) focuses on 20th-century Thai artists, with one floor devoted to international art. The garden is perfect for strolling and the temporary exhibitions are a must-see.

Why visit? Known for the green glass spire and neon-hued ceiling inside its modern 5-story "stupa" tower, Wat Pak Nam is one of Thailand’s royal temples. Explore the museum and beautiful gardens or try a meditation session.

Why visit? Set in a spiraling modern building in the heart of downtown, Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) hosts everything from studios to live performances. Exhibitions are a great way to discover up-and-coming Thai artists and photographers.