The Grand Palace, a must-see place in Bangkok
Built in 1782, the Grand Palace has long been the residence of the royal family. Today, it is still used for important ceremonies and occasionally to house VIPs. Before you visit, make sure you cover your arms and legs. You can join one of the guided tours to learn more about this impressive place.
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, also known as Wat Pho
Located just 700 metres south of the Grand Palace, the Reclining Buddha Temple is the oldest temple in Bangkok. Here you can see a huge golden statue of Buddha that is 45 metres long and 15 metres high. Don't hesitate to set aside some time for a massage: Wat Pho is also famous for its traditional medical school.
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Terminal 21, an unusual shopping centre in Bangkok
Each floor of this huge shopping mall, built in the shape of an airport, is themed after a city: Paris, Tokyo, London, San Francisco, Istanbul or Rome. Each shop is meticulously decorated and aims to take you on a journey immersing you in each culture.
Terminal 21 is also known for its food court with affordable and delicious options, as well as its cinema located on the top floor of the mall.
IN PICTURES 10 must-see places to visit while in Bangkok
The traditional floating markets around Bangkok
You can find many floating markets around Bangkok, the most known being that of Damnoen Saduak, at 100 kilometres of the capital. Although touristy, this huge market is well worth a visit: it will enchant you with its boats loaded with fruit and food that form a huge colourful display.
Another floating market to recommend is Talin Chan, which is only 12 kilometres from the city. The atmosphere is relaxing and you can also take a short cruise along the river.
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Khao San Road, for nightlife escapades
This cheap and lively area is home to many small hotels, shops and restaurants. Whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find it in Khao San Road. You can get a foot massage, plan your next trip in a travel agency, buy clothes, enjoy pad thai and other local specialties at very affordable prices... and much more!
Chatuchak Market, one of the largest covered markets in the world
Thailand's largest covered market is easily accessible by Skytrain, and is a traveller's paradise! With more than 8,000 stalls, Chatuchak Market will delight shopping addicts. Antiques, clothes, plants, books, food, art... you're sure to find everything you're looking for. A useful tip: don't forget to take a map of the market at the entrance, to avoid getting lost in its maze!
Jim Thomson's house
Before he mysteriously disappeared during a trip to Malaysia in 1967, Jim Thomson was a famous silk merchant in Thailand. His house, built in a traditional Thai style, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the life of the American entrepreneur and the history of the silk trade in Thailand. By visiting Jim Thomson's house, you are also doing a good deed: all funds raised from the entrance fee are donated to underprivileged children.
Attend a Muaymuay Thai match in Bangkok
To watch a Muaymuay Thai match in Bangkok, head to Rajadamnoen Stadium, which is the best place to mingle with the local crowd and experience the fights live! The matches last about 3 hours, so allow enough time to enjoy them.
It is best to buy tickets online directly from the stadium's website, to avoid the tourist traps that take you to Muaymay Thai matches that are more staged than real fights.
Where to go for a cultural visit in Bangkok?
The National Museum in Bangkok is a great place to learn about Thai culture and history, as it has the largest collection of art and artefacts in the country. Guided tours in French are available to ensure that you don't miss out on the exciting history of this multi-faceted country.
Lumpini Park, a relaxing interlude
Ideal for a complete change of scenery and a relaxing afternoon, this 57-hectare park has an artificial lake where you can take a pagoda tour. It is also the ideal place to do sports: you will see groups practicing Tai Chi or runners and cyclists.
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