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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Chris Schalkx

A bike ride might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you first step foot into Bangkok’s cacophonous Chinatown. But venture away from the rip-roaring tuk-tuks and jam-packed side streets, and you’ll soon discover that this colourful district perfectly lends itself for exploration on two wheels.

During guided tours, you’ll pedal past incense-swirled spirit houses and hidden wet markets in Chinatown’s back alleys, then continue via longtail boat to palm groves and stilted villages in the city’s rural suburbs.

Small groups and frequent informative stops make for a fascinating peek into the daily lives of the city’s residents, and to discover the Big Mango from an unexpected angle.

Price from: £20
Minimum age: 3
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Duration: 3-5 hours

Getting there & doing it

Tours usually last 3-5 hours or more. While 5 hours on a bicycle might sound daunting given Bangkok’s blistering heat, frequent breaks and boat trips make it easier than it sounds.

Don’t rush for the cancel button when the sky is looking grey on the day of your tour. Drizzles rarely last for more than thirty minutes, and the colder air makes a ride all the more refreshing.

Some operators have children’s bikes and adult bikes with baby seats. There’s no reason not to bring your kids along.

When to do it

Tours run all year round, though the cooler months between November and February are offer the most pleasant cycling weather.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Loy La Long

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.3 miles]

A disarmingly eclectic boutique hotel with river views like no other, and rooms with balconies over the water. One of Bangkok’s best budget stays.

Official star rating:

Ariyasom Villas

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.3 miles]

Beautiful, intimate boutique hotel in a 1940s villa surrounded by tranquil, lush gardens with a relaxing spa. Excellent location for sightseeing nd shopping.

Official star rating:

ASAI Bangkok Chinatown

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.5 miles]

A hyper-smart design hotel on the fringe of Chinatown, within walking distance of legendary street eats and kaleidoscopic temples, but out of earshot from roaring tuk-tuks and rowdy market vendors.

Official star rating:

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.5 miles]

Landmark luxury at Bangkok’s most famous hotel, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Bangkok

Central Thailand, Thailand

From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions, and one of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities.

Website >
Overview >

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Jim Thompson’s House

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]

The former home of silk magnate Jim Thompson – who mysteriously disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia – is a must-see for its well-preserved teak buildings and art.

Best for ages: 13+ | £4

Boat tours of Bangkok

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.3 miles]

From fancy river cruises to public transport boats, seeing Bangkok from its many waterways gives you a whole new perspective of the city and lives of the locals.

Best for ages: 4+ | £3 | 30+ minutes

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Grand Palace

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.7 miles]

Thailand’s most famous cultural site is a glittering complex of jaw-dropping magnificence dating back to 1782. This former seat of power of Siamese kings houses the Emerald Buddha – Thailand’s palladium.

Best for ages: Any | £11

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Teak house surrounded by lush greenery
Experience

Bangkokian Museum

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.2 miles]

One of Bangkok’s most popular little museums. The charming, 70-year-old restored teak house offers a compelling glimpse of family life in Bangkok from the 1930s to the 1960s.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Vibrant flowers in large woven baskets for sale
Experience

Flower Markets

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.9 miles]

Heaving with jasmine, orchids and marigolds, Bangkok’s flower market is a mesmerising riot of colours, floral scents and boisterous vendors. Visit after midnight, when wholesalers drop off their wares and the market is at its liveliest.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >
Overhead view of long tail boats with vendors selling food products
Experience

Floating Markets

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.9 miles]

Flaming woks balancing on tiny canoes, mountains of fresh fruits – Bangkok’s floating markets are a kaleidoscope of Thai-tinged wonder. That said, their old-timey charm has long faded as souvenirs shops have replaced most noodle joints. It’s a fun day out, but no longer an authentic experience.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >

Bangkok’s Creative District

Bangkok, Thailand[2 miles]

With galleries, concept stores and art markets amalgamating into a kaleidoscope of creativity, Bangkok’s de-facto design district offers an excellent primer on the city’s burgeoning creative scene.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free