Thailand's capital, Bangkok, is located on the Chao Phraya River delta, about 25 miles (40 km) from the Gulf of Thailand.

This bustling city is known for its ornate shrines and vibrant streets.

It is the most populous city in Thailand and one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia and the world.

Rich in heritage and culture, the city features towering skyscrapers standing in harmony next to ancient temples and monasteries, grand palaces and luxurious shopping malls alongside street bazaars and floating markets.

The city lives up to its reputation and shows you what a modern-day melting pot of contrasting cultures and religions looks like.

With so many things to do and see in Bangkok, it can be confusing as to what to choose first.

That is why this list of exciting tourist places in this city will be a perfect guide to get you started.

Best Places to Visit in Bangkok

Bangkok - Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun)

Known locally as Wat Chiang, Wat Arun is an ancient temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.

Also called the Temple of Dawn, this stunning Buddhist temple is one of the city's most famous landmarks.

Its construction began during the reign of Rama II in the early 19th century and was completed during the reign of Rama III in the first half of the 19th century.

Standing majestically opposite the Grand Palace, the temple is partly made up of colourfully decorated towers and stands above the water.

It is among the most popular places to visit in this city.

Bangkok

Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), Bangkok

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

Founded in 1782, the Grand Palace is a massive complex of buildings in the heart of Bangkok, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

The complex consists of different architectural masterpieces and is therefore the perfect place to start your historical tour of the city.

This magnificent complex of buildings served as the residence of the royal family for several generations and is today one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.

As the official ceremonial residence of the King of Thailand, the Grand Palace contains halls, pavilions, grounds, lawns and courtyards.

All of them display a blend of Thai and European architecture.

This sacred site is a must-visit when you come here, just for its majestic beauty.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

Chatuchak Market, the largest market in Thailand

Chatuchak Market, locally called Cheong Wat, is located in Bangkok.

Spread over 35 acres with over 8,000 stalls, it is very popular among traders.

With the huge size of the market and the variety of goods

Which range from clothing, accessories, handicrafts, furniture, art, food, books and antiques.

It has also become very popular with tourists and locals.

Dating back to 1942, this sprawling market is one of the largest in the world.

One of the best places to visit in this charming city, Chatuchak Market has a unique atmosphere that must be experienced.

Bangkok

Chatuchak Market, Thailand

National Museum, the largest museum in Southeast Asia

Known as Thailand's first public museum, the Bangkok National Museum is located between Thammasat University and the National Theater.

Founded in 1887 by King Rama V, it houses the largest collection of Thai art and historical artifacts in the country.

One of the best places to visit in the city. For history buffs, the museum occupies the former 18th-century Wang Na Palace in Phra Nakhon.

This National Museum is the main branch of the National Museum in the entire country, and is also known as the largest museum in Southeast Asia.

Wander through one of the finest art collections and browse exhibits including Buddhist art.

In addition to pieces belonging to the Thai royal family.

If you want to enjoy the museum at its best,

You can join a free guided tour organized on Wednesdays and Thursdays by National Museum volunteers at 9:30 am in both languages, English and French.

Bangkok

National Museum of Thailand

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is considered the holiest Buddhist site in Thailand.

Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace complex, the temple enshrines a finely carved Buddha image from a single block, which is guarded by legendary warriors at each entrance.

The temple was established in 1785 by King Rama I when he moved the statue across the river from his former residence at Wat Arun.

No Bangkok sightseeing would be complete without a visit to this colorful temple.

It is also known as one of the most revered Buddhist temples in Thailand.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Erawan Shrine, a shrine to Brahma in Thailand

Also known as Thao Mahaprom Shrine, it is one of the most popular Hindu shrines in downtown Bangkok.

It was built in 1956 after the Thai government built the luxury Erawan Hotel on the site to ward off bad luck.

The shrine is home to a golden statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the Hindu god of creation, Brahma.

The four-faced statue, named after the four-faced Brahma, is believed to bring good luck to those who visit it and grant any visitor a wish.

You will find many locals and tourists gathering here with festive displays filled with incense sticks, flower garlands, fruits and teak elephants.

This is one of the most popular places to visit in the city, and it also hosts amazing classical Thai dance performances several times a day.

As well as lively lion dances on special occasions.

Bangkok

Erawan Shrine, a shrine to Brahma in Thailand