Bangkok is a city that hums with energy. It is chaotic yet deeply spiritual, modern yet ancient, fast-paced yet unexpectedly serene. If you’re searching for the most memorable and unique things to do in Bangkok, you’re in the right place. Most first-time visitors head straight to the Grand Palace (and yes, we did too!), but there’s so much more to explore beyond the usual sights.
Whether you’re a returning traveler or just want to mix a few unexpected experiences into your first visit, this guide highlights some of the most unique things to do in Bangkok—drawn from our own time in the city during our two-week Thailand itinerary.
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1. Watch a Muay Thai Fight at Rajadamnern Stadium
Watching Muay Thai in person is a must-do cultural experience in Bangkok. Plus, the production at Rajadamnern Stadium is a show in itself. We opted for VIP Balcony seats, which included free-flow beer and snacks, and were treated to 9 action-packed fights. Throughout the night, fights featured both Thai and international fighters (including two Americans who we enjoyed cheering for). There were kiss cams, dance cams, DJs, and t-shirts being launched into the crowd. If you’re feeling jet-lagged, the adrenaline here will wake you right up.
2. Tour the Maeklong Railway Market
Visiting the Maeklong Railway Market is one of the more unique things to do in Bangkok. This market is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Several times a day, a train barrels straight through the heart of the narrow market—just inches from the stalls. Vendors quickly pull back their awnings and move their goods, then resume business as usual once the train has passed. We visited in the morning before the heat kicked in and found it to be a vibrant, truly local experience. Just be sure to check the train schedule ahead of time so you don’t miss the moment.
3. Visit a Floating Market
When in Bangkok, make sure to visit a floating market. We visited Damnoen Saduak mostly out of necessity—it was the only one open on the weekday we were there. However, while it was fun to see the colorful boats and sample a few snacks, the experience felt quite touristy. If you have flexibility, we’d suggest skipping Damnoen in favor of more authentic markets like Amphawa (weekends only) or Khlong Lat Mayom, which is smaller, more local, and located much closer to central Bangkok.
4. Dine at an Underrated Fine Dining Gem
One of our favorite meals in Bangkok came from a lesser-known fine dining restaurant: Ōre. We booked a chef’s table experience and thoroughly enjoyed the creativity and flavors throughout the meal. Each course was meticulously plated and showcased inventive twists on Thai ingredients. The setting was intimate yet elegant, and the pacing of the meal struck the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. We believe that Ōre remains one of the most underrated spots in Bangkok, and we fully expect to see it earn a Michelin star in the near future.
5. Take a Bangkok Backstreets Food Tour in Chinatown
The best thing we did in Bangkok? Hands down, our evening food tour through Chinatown with a guide named Annie. The tour, called “Bangkok Backstreets,” introduced us to the fusion of Thai and Chinese influences (or as Annie called it, “Thainese”). We tried juicy satay skewers, Chinese chive dumplings, rolled noodle soup, soy sauce ice cream—and more dishes than we could count. The tour also took us to local markets and family-run eateries we never would have found on our own. It was personal, delicious, and completely unforgettable.
6. Get Custom Clothing Made at a Tailor
Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world to get custom clothing made quickly and affordably. The tailoring scene here is well-established, with skilled craftsmanship and a wide selection of fabrics. We went to Peninsula Tailors, where I had two suits and a winter coat made in just a few days. We were really impressed with the quality and service – not quite on par with American tailoring but close. Peninsula wasn’t the cheapest option available, but I still paid half of what it would have cost me back home. Note that it’s a good idea to get measured early in your trip to allow time for fittings and adjustments.
7. Explore Bangkok’s Iconic Shopping Malls
Even if you’re not a big shopper, Bangkok’s malls are worth exploring for their design, food courts, and cultural touches. From luxury boutiques to local streetwear, high-tech gadgets to traditional crafts, the variety is unmatched. We especially enjoyed ICONSIAM, a sprawling riverside complex that includes a floating market-style food zone, a nightly fountain and light show along the riverfront, and entire sections dedicated to handmade crafts by Thai artisans—perfect for picking up meaningful souvenirs.
Other notable malls include Siam Paragon (upscale international brands and a world-class aquarium), MBK Center (more affordable fashion and tech), and Terminal 21, where each floor is themed around a different international city. Whether you’re escaping the heat, hunting for deals, or just people-watching, Bangkok’s malls offer a cultural experience all their own.
8. End the Day with Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar
Few things compare to watching the sun set over Bangkok’s sprawling skyline with a cocktail in hand. The city has no shortage of rooftop bars, each offering its own vibe and panoramic views. One we particularly enjoyed was Bar.Yard, the rooftop bar at Kimpton Maa-Lai. This trendy spot is stylish, relaxed, and a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Cocktails with a live DJ and skyline views were the perfect way to wrap up a packed day.
Other top choices include Vertigo at Banyan Tree, known for its open-air rooftop perched high above the city; Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar at the Marriott for its 360-degree views; and Above Riva, a more low-key option with great cocktails and a riverfront view of Wat Arun. Regardless of what bar you pick, visiting a rooftop bar is one of the essential things to do in Bangkok!
Plan Your Bangkok Visit
There’s nothing wrong with visiting the Grand Palace—it’s iconic for a reason. But don’t stop there. Bangkok rewards those who dig a little deeper. Whether it’s checking off iconic things to do in Bangkok like cheering at a Muay Thai fight, eating your way through back alley markets, or heading home with a perfectly tailored suit, the most memorable moments are often the ones you didn’t expect.
Want to see how we fit Bangkok into our full two-week adventure? Check out our Thailand itinerary here.
Still deciding where to stay? Don’t miss our guide to the best hotels in Bangkok, from luxurious riverside escapes to affordable boutique gems.
Or better yet, get in touch and let us help plan your own Bangkok adventure—temples, tailor shops, and all.
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