Bangkok is a fascinating city that offers a unique and captivating blend of ancient temples, stunning modern skyscrapers, and an incredibly alive street life, and thus a destination where everyone should get to visit at least once in their lives. From the grandiose majesty of the Grand Palace, which showcases the rich cultural history of Thailand, to the lively atmosphere and vibrant energy of Khao San Road, where countless adventures await to be discovered, there's always something new and exciting to anticipate in this pulsating metropolis. Here, I am sharing with you my definitive guide to the must-see places that you simply have to visit on your trip to Bangkok.

1. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

No doubt about it, the Grand Palace is among Bangkok's most notable landmarks. It's a massive complex with incredible architecture, beautiful details, and a rich history. Within the walls of the Grand Palace lies Wat Phra Kaew, the home of the Emerald Buddha, another cultural and religious symbol of Thailand. I spent several hours here, strolling the golden corridors and admiring the beautiful golden spires. It's not a tourist destination only. It's a cultural and spiritual symbol, and the guided tour I took made the experience all the more richer.
 

2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Popular for its riverside beauty, Wat Arun is among the most stunning temples in Bangkok. The central spire of the temple stands 70 meters tall, and the beautiful mosaics and carvings are among the most beautiful sites in the city. I went to visit it towards the end of the day to see the view at sunset, and the golden light reflecting off the temple was breathtaking. The ascent is strenuous, but the view of the river and city from the top is well worth it.
 

3. Chatuchak Weekend Market 

If you're a shopper, Chatuchak is one you won't want to skip. With more than 8,000 vendors, it is one of the biggest markets in the world, and it's a good place to do a little shopping for anything from clothes to antiques to street food. I spent the entire afternoon here, wandering the labyrinth of vendors and collecting offbeat souvenirs. It is also a good place to try some of Bangkok's renowned street food, such as grilled satay skewers and mango sticky rice. The size of the market is overwhelming, but getting lost is half the fun.
 

4. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is also referred to as the "backpacker's paradise," and it's not hard to see why. It's a vibrant street filled with bars, street food, and what looks like an endless supply of cheap souvenirs. I walked down Khao San at night and ended up having some delicious mango sticky rice and a cold beer at one of the many street bars. The vibe on the street is contagious, and if you're looking for a place to meet other travelers or just get in the lively atmosphere, this is the place. 
 

5. Jim Thompson House 

For those who wish to escape the city chaos and experience a quieter, more cultural Bangkok, the Jim Thompson House is a gem. The museum is the old residence of Jim Thompson, an American who revived the Thai silk industry. The house itself is lovely traditional Thai architecture, complete with lush gardens and a serene ambiance. It's a wonderful spot to learn about the history of Thai silk, and the staff are extremely knowledgeable about Jim Thompson's life and legacy.
 

Conclusion

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps and is alive and kicking, with plenty of experiences to go around for any kind of traveler you can think of. You may stroll through the ancient and intricate temples that cover the landscape, spend an entire day shopping until you can shop no more, or simply bask in the vibrant mood that fills the streets, there is no shortage of memories waiting to be made. These amazing places are merely the tip of the iceberg, and I guarantee you that there is a whole lot more to see and do if you go a little off the beaten track.

By Baker, Spot selector