Bucket list experience:
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
A trip down the Chao Phraya River or Bangkok’s many khlongs (canals) is the best way to get under the city’s skin. Seen from the water, a wholly different Bangkok reveals itself: kids dive-bombing from rickety bridges, elderly ladies doing laundry, and croc-sized monitor lizards lazing in the sun.
One of the most enjoyable (and cheapest) boat rides is the public San Saeb Express, which connects the gleaming city centre to Bangkok’s historical heart, passing by stilted shanties and glittering temples along the way.
On the other end of the spectrum are the snazzy dinner cruise lines, such as Suppaniga Cruise, which combine fabulous Thai food with spectacular sunset views of Rattanakosin’s riverside temples.
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Destination Guide >The Central Pier connected to the Saphan Taksin BTS station is the main transport hub for public transport boats running up and down the Chao Phraya River. Opt for one of the comfortable (but pricier) sightseeing boats if you’re planning to make frequent stops along the way or board a regular express boat for single trips. The Central Pier is also a good spot to arrange private long tail boat trips through the canals north of the river.
For the San Saeb Express boat option, Tha Hua Chang wharf is a handy boarding point if you’ve visited the Jim Thompson House. Tha Pratunam is a good pier if you’ve been shopping at Central World. At the other end of the canal, your final stop will be Tha Saphan Phan Fah, near the Golden Mount and a good departure point for exploring the older parts of Bangkok, including Pra Nakhon, Rattanakosin and Banglamphu.
Boat tickets start at £3, dinner cruise from about £30 per person.
Both the San Saeb Express and the Chao Phraya River lines run 7 days a week, year-round. They can get very crowded during rush hour in the mornings and early evenings, so you’ll want to avoid travelling long distances with them during these times.
The upscale dinner cruises, including Suppaniga Cruise, follow their own timetables. Check their websites for the latest updates and boarding points.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.5 miles]
Landmark luxury at Bangkok’s most famous hotel, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.8 miles]
A gorgeous riverside bolthole away from the excesses of the city, this is one of the most luxurious hotels in the capital.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.8 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.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.3 miles]
Beautiful, intimate boutique hotel in a 1940s villa surrounded by tranquil, lush gardens with a relaxing spa. Excellent location for sightseeing nd shopping.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
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.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2 miles]
Bicycle tours through the back-alleys of Chinatown and Bangkok’s rural suburbs offer a fascinating peek into the daily lives of the city’s residents.
Best for ages: 13+ | £20 | 3-5 hours
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[3.7 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
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[4.1 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
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[4.7 miles]
Blood, sweat, and muscled men in tiny shorts – there are few better ways to see Thailand’s national sport than a Muay Thai match at Bangkok’s Rjadamnern Boxing Stadium.
Best for ages: 16+ | £11 | 3.5 hrs
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.1 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
Bangkok, Thailand[1.8 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
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[3.2 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
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[3.4 miles]
When you feel the need to escape Bangkok’s oppressive traffic fumes, Lumphini Park is a lush central oasis and a fantastic place for a stroll. Go early morning and late afternoon when locals come for sports and you’ll find elderly ladies practicing sword fighting and Tai-Chi.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
