There’s a good reason Bangkok is one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations. And that’s because it knows how to wow travellers across generations – the young at heart and the fifties but actually young and restless!
History? Cuisine? Art and culture? Shopping? Check, check and check.
At first glance, Bangkok’s energy can feel frenetic and even intimidating, but the great thing about this city you don’t need to get trapped in that flow. There are plenty of ways, and plenty of places where you can slow down to your own chosen pace and savour the magic to suit your needs. And then there’s the fact that Bangkok is generally a safe city for travellers, both young and mature so go forth and conquer… in your own unique way!
Here is our Top 7 list on what to see and do in this buzzing Asian metropolis, especially curated for the discerning mature traveler.
1. Peek into the past
Start with a tour of the Grand Palace, the sprawling residence complex of the former rulers of Siam since the late 18th century. This is a great way to get a glimpse into the royal history and spiritual traditions of this country.
Once you have explored the palace itself, spend some time at the Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.
You can hire an authorised tourist guide on the site or rent an audio guide with information in eight languages.
Facilities: There are plenty of restrooms (including accessible toilets) on the site, as well as a free wheelchair rental at the cloakroom.
Tip: Get there early in the morning close to opening time to avoid the crowds and explore the massive complex with sufficient time for breaks. When the going gets tough, just step back for a bit of people watching from one of the benches scattered around the shaded gardens surrounding the site.]
2. What’s wat?
Bangkok’s Buddhist temples (wats) are worth visiting not just for their incredible architecture but also for being oases of calm within the chaos of the city. Although there are dozens, if not hundreds, of wats in and around the city, these are the two unmissable ones:
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, comes alive early in the morning and late in the evening, when the sun’s mellow rays fall on the pearly white spires to cast them in a golden glow.
Tip: The terrace of the central tower offers panoramic views of the river and the city, so grid your loins and hold on to the side railing of the staircase for that steep climb. It is worth the effort, we assure you.
Wat Pho – the temple of the Reclining Buddha, was built on royal orders as a space for monks to immerse themselves in the study of Buddhist Dharma. If there’s only time (and energy) for one temple in Bangkok, make it this one, just to see the majestic golden statue of the Buddha in repose.
Tip: Indulge in a therapeutic massage at the Thai massage school which is part of the temple complex. But be aware that traditional Thai massage can be intense and go from aaah! to ouch! very quickly, so be sure to discuss your preferences before you begin.
3. Sunset on water
Ready for some slow travel? Then, sign up for a cruise on the Chao Phraya River, best done late in the evening after the searing heat of the day has subsided. This way, you get to beat the infamous Bangkok traffic, as you see Bangkok’s iconic sights from the comfort of your seat and watch the twinkling lights of the city come on.
Tip: Choose one with live commentary for more context on the sights you are passing through.
Facilities: Many sunset cruises also come with the option of a buffet dinner and live music on board for that complete evening out experience
4. Shop till you drop. Or not.
Whether you want to pick up a unique piece of art or just browse through traditional crafts (not to forget artisanal wellness products and stunning fabrics), there is no better option than the Chatuchak Weekend Market for that local flavour.
Pick up an iced tea or the ubiquitous mango with stick rice for an energy boost as you bargain your way through thus fascinating market.
Of course, you can also do this in air-conditioned comfort at one of upscale shopping malls like EmSphere, Siam Paragon or Central World, but the experience of streetside shopping in Bangkok is unmatched.
Tip: If you would like to get a feel for Bangkok’s famous night markets, choose one of the newer ones like Asiatique that offer shopping, dining and entertainment in a comfortable setting.
5. Gourmet dining
Currently boasting over 180 Michelin starred restaurants, Bangkok is where the finest sit-down spaces compete with the best street food stalls for your attention. In the mood for French fine dining? There’s Blue by Alain Ducasse. Contemporary Thai, you say? Think Coda Bangkok. Indian, but make it molecular gastronomy? Sure, go to Gaggan then.
Whatever you want, you will never go hungry in Bangkok.
Tip: Be sure to secure a reservation, as most high-end options tend to get booked out months in advance.
6. A Day Out
You can’t leave Bangkok without a trip to one of the floating markets like the Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi. A throwback to the times when the region’s many rivers and canals were the main conduit for trade and commerce, these floating markets are still great places to witness a slice of local life, and of course, taste the freshest noodles, seafood and meats cooked on a narrow khlong boat, right in front of your eyes.
Tip: Sign up with a trusted operators for comfortable transfers and convenient options for lunch and restroom breaks in between.
And just over an hour away is Ayutthaya, once the Siamese capital and one of the most influential cities in the region with over a million residents. At its heart is the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO world heritage site containing numerous temples, palaces and historic ruins worth exploring.
Tip: Bangkok tends to get hot and humid even in the supposedly cooler months, so be sure to stay hydrated when you are outdoors.
Of course, no trip is complete without a few basics in place! So, here are our 101 travel kit recommendations for Bangkok:
5G Data Sim: Buy Here
Airport Transport Options: Private Transfers: Buy Here
BKK Skytrain One Day Pass: Buy Here