Things to Do in Bangkok

Joe Louis Traditional Thai Puppet Theatre

The establishment of this theatre was inspired by Sakhon Yangkhieosot, or Joe Louis, who wished to preserve the art of operating Hun Lakhon Lek puppets. In operating the puppets, the puppeteers require basic skills of Khon performance as they will have to move their footsteps and hand gestures to coincide with those of the puppets. Each puppet is operated by three puppeteers, lending it lifelike movements. Hun Lakhon Lek usually performs the story of Ramakian, the Thai version of the Ramayana epic. Sakhon Nattasin is currently the only performing troupe of Hun Lakhon Lek in Thailand. The show is in Thai with translations into English, and there is a segment where the puppets interact with audience members that is popular with children. There is also a corner inside the theatre where Khon mask making is demonstrated, with a gallery of the Hun Lakhon Lek puppets and their background.

Asiatique The Riverfront, 2194 Charoen Krung Rd

19:30-20:45 daily

3,000 baht

Pandan Tour Company

This company offers whole-day tours, which are slightly different whether you're taking them on weekdays or weekends. The weekday tour starts at the Wat Sai Morning Market and then takes you to an exotic orchid nursery, the Wat Pa Chang Lane or the "Jungle Temple", then onto a traditional wooden house of a local miniature boat making family and the "Artists' House" for a traditional Thai puppet show. The weekend tour takes you to the Artists House first and then brings you to the Lat Mayom Floating Market. The weekend tour is recommended as the Lat Mayom Floating Market is more authentic and more fun than the Wat Sai market. These tours use a Thai traditional teak boat, and life-vests are offered. Unlike other tours, you can ask the staff to stop anywhere along the canals. Call ahead for inquiries (ask for Tom, the Thai-American owner).

780/488 Charoen Krung Rd, Bang Kho Laem

08:00-16:00 daily

1,000+ baht

Mitchaophraya Travel Service

Operating from Tha Chang pier, there offers plenty of tours on offer. All of them include Wat Arun, the Royal Barge National Museum and a floating market. At weekdays it will pass by the "Thonburi Floating Market", which is set-up for tourists and not worth it. Better take the tour at weekends, when it goes by the Taling Chan Floating Market (which is also not authentic, but at least feels more genuine and is a lot more lively). The one-hour tour goes through the Bangkok Noi and Mon canals for 800 baht. The 90-minute tour also takes in the Bangkok Yai canal for 1,000 baht. The complete tour takes two hours, costs 1,200 baht, and goes deeper into Thonburi, where you'll visit an orchid farm.

Vegetarian Festival

Ten days long, generally taking place around September-October. Many Thai-Chinese (and increasingly ethnic Thai) come over to Yaowarat during festival time to buy vegetarian products, such as vegetables, fruits, and other ingredients. Most of the action happens around Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (which is also more lively) and in the area around Talat Noi. Look for the yellow flags at the carts denoting their meat-free status. Restaurants also adapt to the tradition, substituting soy-based products for meat, even for traditional Thai dishes like tom yam. The most interesting festival dish is the yellow Hokkien-style noodles that are usually served with vegetables and mushrooms.

APEX

The theatres of APEX were built in the late 1960s and have changed little ever since, so seeing a film here is a kind of retro experience not found in other cinemas. It is widely known for its more offbeat and art house films. It is spread over two theatres. Lido Theatre has three screens, usually with Japanese, Korean and other foreign films, while Scala Theatre only has one screen with first-run Hollywood films. Unfortunately, the late 1960s Siam Theatre has been destroyed in fires that resulted from red shirt demonstrations in 2010. It was replaced with the Siam Square One shopping complex.

Siam Square Soi 1

10:00-23:00 daily

100 baht

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Ratchadamnoen Stadium

When the locals want entertainment, they head to the stadium for some Thai boxing. Or Muay Thai, as the Thais call it. It is very expensive though, expect to pay 1,000 baht for an outer-ring seat, 1,500 baht for a middle-ring seat and 2,000 baht for ringside seats. Thais chip in for 230 baht. A match includes eight fights with a maximum of five rounds each, so free some time in your schedule. The area around the stadium has some of the best places to get Isaan food, as television host Anthony Bourdain showed in an episode of his programme "No Reservations".

Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd

M, W-Th 18:30-22:30, Su 17:00-20:00 and 20:30-00:00

1,000-2,000 baht

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Blu-O Rhythm and Bowl

Kind of a weird entertainment venue as this complex combines karaoke rooms with bowling facilities, aimed at upper-middle class Thai ladies. The entrance is professional and neat in a glamorous blue, gold and white style. The karaoke rooms look like living rooms with a DVD player and touch-screens. The 22-lane bowling alleys are world-class. After 17:00, bowlers play with a glow-in-the-dark ball in a dimly-lit environment. There are also DJs, lounge seats, and you can have cocktails.

4F, Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd

10:00-23:00 daily

80-190 baht

Thailand Cultural Centre

A fully integrated venue for social education and cultural activities. There aren't many foreigners in this area, so most of the shows are aimed at locals. It is a world-class centre that has room for more than 2,000 visitors. There's always something on, most of the time (inter)national symphony orchestra performances, but most foreigners come over to see a traditional Thai cultural show. You might want to call in first and find out about the current programme before heading out.

Walthana Tham Rd

Century the Movie Plaza

This cineplex and shopping mall opened in 2005, and is the best cinema of the Victory Monument area. You can find the box office on the third floor, while the movie theatres are on the fifth floor. They offer all the major Hollywood releases and some lesser known Thai movies (subtitled in English). While waiting for your movie to start, you might want to browse around the rest of the shopping mall or have something to eat. The basement has a wide array of small garment shops.

15 Phaya Thai Rd

10:00-22:00 daily

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Siam Niramit

A state-of-the-art cultural performances centre, which uses modern technology integrated with old fashioned drama to depict the history of each region of Thailand. The story also includes depictions of hells, the forest of Himmaphan, heavens and lands beyond imagination from Thai literature, all of which are influenced by Thai common beliefs. There is also a spectacular performance of Thailand's arts and cultural heritage. The show is staged by more than 150 performers.

19 Tiamruammit Rd

Daily, 20:00

1,500 baht

Chinese New Year

A great time to visit Yaowarat, when Bangkok's Chinatown goes on steroids. Yaowarat Road will be closed to traffic as street festivities, lion dances, and food fairs take place. Generally, a member of the Thai royal family comes over to celebrate among the Chinese community. Temples will be more packed than ever with many Thai-Chinese coming over to pray and burn incense. The best temples to visit this time of the year are Wat Mangkon Kamalawat and Thien Fa Foundation.

Playhouse

A glamorous, fun, and colourful performances. Featuring beautiful and talented Thai dancers and stunning stage designs that create scenes from around the world. The show ranges through classical ballet, tap, hip-hop, contemporary styles and famous pieces from international musicals. The 350 seat theatre is filled with fine artwork, cutting edge lights and sound, and access to panoramic stage views. Staff will ensure comfort with service, dining and a free drink.

Asia Hotel, Phayathai

Showtimes 20:15 and 21:45 daily

1,200 baht

Mooncake Festival

Every year around late September or early October. Also known as mid-Autumn Festival or Lantern Festival, is held. Chinese families and friends gather under the full moon to pay respect to the Goddess of the Moon. Their celebrations include the eating of mooncakes and pomelos together under the light of the bright moon. Many stores in Yaowarat sell mooncakes during the festival, so you might want to try one of these sweet cakes in all their many varieties.

Krungsri IMAX Theatre

Going to see a film here is a great night out. You get a few hours in a plush theatre house, complete with air conditioning, assigned seats and the newest technology (including IMAX and 3D glasses). All the new Hollywood releases are featured nightly, but you can also pick most Thai films as they have English subtitles (inquire at the desk first to be sure this is the case). Don't forget the mandatory standing ovation to the King before the film starts.

5F, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Rd

10:00-00:00 daily

160 baht

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Hatthai Massage

A traditional two hour Thai massage is given upstairs, where patrons are separated by curtains, which are often opened up so masseuses can chit chat. A 90 minute reflexology foot massage is done at ground level, opposite a large television; try not to doze off. It is popular with Japanese businessmen staying at the nearby Grand Tower Inn. Beware when searching for it, as there are now two places across the street with exactly the same name.

Sukhumvit Rd

350-400 baht/hr

Wat Po Massage

A good way to combine relaxation and understanding Thai culture is by taking a traditional Thai massage inside the Wat Pho temple compound. Thai massage is considered a medical discipline in Thailand, used for the treatment of many kinds of illnesses. The massages are given in the dilapidated buildings at the east of the northern compound. Take a two-hour Thai massage for best results, or try a foot, oil or facial massage.

2 Sanam Chai Rd

08:30-18:00

400 baht/hr

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Mambo Cabaret

Touted as the "queen" of drag shows, this ladyboy show has three performances daily. A show takes one hour and has all the glitz and glamour you would expect. Before it was located at Washington Square along Sukhumvit Road, but now it has moved far off to the area around Rama III Road. You can take a picture with the performers when the show ends, but you will have to pay extra for it. Booking beforehand is recommended.

59/28 Rama III Rd

Show times 19:15, 20:30, 22:00 daily

1,000 baht

House RCA

This is a boutique art house cinema with two screens. No typical Hollywood films or Thai chick flicks here; expect Swedish art films and obscure Cantonese dramas. Foreign movies are subtitled both in Thai and in English. The cinema is not as luxurious as those in Siam Paragon, but good enough. Don't trust the listings, as they are often wrong. Just turn up and see what they have on offer.

3F, RCA Plaza, 31/8 Royal City Ave

11:45-00:00 daily

100 baht

National Theatre

You might want to attend the National Theatre, where you can watch a classical performance or traditional dance (such as a khon dance). Don't expect an English language production though, as most shows are set up for the locals. Don't forget to get your hand on the programme first, as it will give a synopsis of what the play is about. Also stand up when the national anthem begins.

2 Rachini Rd

50-200 baht

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Paragon Cineplex

With about 4,000 seats and 25 screens, this has got to be one of the largest cinemas in Asia. The complex includes three separately branded cinemas. The Siam Pavalai is a 1,200-seat theatre, the largest of the bunch and even concerts take place here. The six "Ultra Screen" cinemas are much more luxurious and have reclining seats. Enigma is a members-only cinema with lounge seats.

5F, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Rd

10:00-00:00 daily

140 baht

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Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre

Opened in 1933, the theatre places a heavy emphasis on Thai dramas known as "khon" — traditional Thai dances based on Thai history and legends that take about two hours. The "khon" are mostly performed during the winter months, while other performing arts (including cinema) are staged throughout the year. It is best to call first to find out about which performances are on.

66 Charoen Krung Rd

10:00-18:00 daily

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The Boat Tour Centre

Operating from Si Phraya pier, they offer a one-hour tour for 800 baht and a two-hour for 1,500 baht. The one-hour tour is a quick tour of the Chao Phraya River. At the two-hour tour, you will either visit the Wat Sai Floating Market (if arriving around 08:00 on weekdays) or go up north to Wat Arun and the Royal Barge National Museum (at any other time).

Major Cineplex Pinklao

A large and luxurious cinema, and compared to Western standards, an absolute bargain to watch a film here. All the newest Hollywood releases are on show, as are Thai films (most of which are subtitled in English). If you have to wait about one or two hours before the film starts, you can do some shopping or have some food in the attached shopping mall.

554-554/12 Borommaratchachonnani Rd

10:30-22:00 daily

150 baht

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Aerobic Dance Classes

Free outdoor aerobic dance sessions in Lumphini Park. All are welcome. During the session, music plays and the instructor leads the movements in front of the crowd. Each session lasts one hour. No Thai language skills required as the instructor rarely uses any verbal cues. In addition to the exercise, you get to meet locals and foreigners.

Lumphini Park

Daily, 06:00 and 18:00

Free

Shewa Spa

A bit more expensive than other massage parlours in the area, but feels a lot more professional. Very clean and cute decor. The masseuses are well-trained and friendly. Thai massage, oil massage, herbal massage, foot scrub and hair removal offered. You can also follow a 20-hour massage course for 5,000 baht that takes ten days.

108/2 Rambuttri Rd

09:00-01:00 daily

230 baht/hr

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Safari World

Safari World is Bangkok's greatest open zoo and leisure park. The 300-acre complex comprises a safari park that is populated by African and Asian mammals, a marine park with amusing performances of well-trained dolphins and seals, a bird park, and a games corner. There are separate tickets for Safari Park and Marine Park.

99 Panyaintra Rd

09:00-17:00 daily

Combined ticket price: adults 900 baht, children 550 baht

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Devarana Spa

Easily the most luxurious spa of the city. They offer massage, body scrub, body wrap, water treatment, facial and others. There are 15 treatment rooms, including five spa suites. Expect a very professional service and a beautiful modern interior. If you need to ask the price, it means you probably cannot afford it.

9F, Dusit Thani Hotel Bldg, 946 Rama IV Rd

09:00-22:00 daily

2,000-3,000 baht/hr

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PTT Speed Way

At 7,000 sq m this is the largest indoor go-kart track in Asia. It receives more than 100,000 visitors every year, most of them karting on the weekends. Formula 1 racer Nico Rosberg is understood to have a membership. But you don't have to be a good racer to do it as anyone can.

2F, RCA Plaza, 31/11 Soi Soonvijai

M-Tu, Th 16:00-00:00, F 16:00-03:00, Sa-Su, holidays 13:00-00:00

390 baht/8 min

Major Cineplex Ramkhamhaeng

One of the Major Cineplex chain of cinemas, this is a fairly modern cinema that is close to Ramkhamhaeng University. English movies are shown, and Thai movies have subtitles in English. There are plenty of shops and places to eat if you want to kill time till your movie begins.

73 Ramkhamhaeng Rd

Daily, 10:30-00:00

120 baht

Wachirabenchatat Park

This large park used to be the golf course of the State Railway of Thailand. Bicycle rental, paid parking and eating possibilities are outside the northern entrance of the park. It has a large kids playgrounds in the middle, as well as a kids pool and sports facilities.

Kamphaeng Phet 3 Rd

05:00-21:00 daily

Free

Calypso Cabaret

The famous ladyboy show of the Calypso Cabaret. The performances takes place in two sessions every evening. The show consists of singing, dancing and remarkable costumes. At least make a reservation at their website three days before you want to attend the show.

Asiatique The Riverfront, 2194 Charoen Krung Rd

20:15, 21:45 daily

1,200 baht

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Major Cineplex Ratchayothin

Another branch of the Major Cineplex line of cinemas. The ticket office is on the second floor, the movies play at the fifth and sixth floors. It is a large cinema with all the new Hollywood releases. Thai movies are also showed and are subtitled in English.

234/2 Phahonyothin Rd

M-W 10:30-00:00, Th-Su 10:00-00:00

150 baht

Spark Entertainment Center

Another one of Ratchada's entertainment meccas. This self-proclaimed "entertainment centre" has a game room, karaoke rooms and a snooker table. Also included in the complex is the Carnival Pub with a live band and the Sparks Discotheque dance floor.

BF, The Emerald Hotel, 99/1 Ratchadaphisek Rd

11:00-01:00 daily

Madame Joe's

Fully qualified staff and a warm and friendly atmosphere. Thai massage, foot massage and oil massage offered. Fully air-conditioned. You can also take the 25-hour massage course for 8,000 baht. It takes five days with five hours each.

81 Trok Mayom

10:00-23:00 daily

180 baht/hr

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UMG RCA Cinema

Formerly boasting five screens, now two of them on the third floor have been remodelled into the House RCA art cinema. Three screens remain with about 1,000 seats. It features recently released Hollywood and Thai mainstream films.

RCA Plaza, 31-6/9 Royal City Ave

150 baht

Center Point Massage & Spa

Recently moved from the sois of Siam Square into the Siam Square One shopping centre. Worth seeking out as they do nice Thai, herbal, oil and foot massages, as well as aromatherapy. They also have branches in Silom and Sukhumvit.

6F, Siam Square One, 388 Rama I Rd

10:00-23:30 daily

380-1,190 baht/hr

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Ruen Thep

In the evenings you can catch this authentic performance of various forms of traditional Thai dance. It is part of the Silom Village Trade Center complex. It might be a good idea to make a reservation by phone beforehand.

286/1 Silom Rd

20:20-21:10 daily

600-900 baht

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Praiphana

Another massage parlour, this one offers a traditional Thai massage, oil massage and aromatherapy, manicures and pedicures. For 15 baht, you can get a 15 minute neck and shoulder massage.

Sukhumvit Soi 55

10:00-23:00 daily

300 baht/hr

Leyana Day Spa and Garden

This spa is specialised in half-day packages designed for couples. Getting there is quite a hike, but you can get a free transfer from the BTS station if you request this beforehand.

Soi To Sak, 33 Thong Lo Soi 13

M-F 11:00-22:00, Sa-Su 10:00-22:00

5,500 baht/3 hr

Bliss Massage & Spa

Offers traditional Thai massage, head and foot massage along with a "fish spa" — wherein you immerse your feet in a tank of water and little fish nibble away at the dead skin.

Sukhumvit Soi 33

10:00-00:00 daily

Sub Zero Ice Skate Club

Just skate around or take lessons. At night, this turns into a swanky club complete with strobe lights, live DJs, and bars made from ice. Just don't forget to bring jackets.

4F, Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd

11:00-17:00, 17:30-01:00 daily

Siam Park City

This water amusement park contains a man-made sea with towering slides. Satellite attractions include children's playgrounds, aviaries, an open zoo, and a botanical garden.

Sukhaphiban 2 Rd

Daily, 10:00-18:00

200 baht

Muangthai Ratchadalai Theatre

Opened in 2007, this 1,500-seat musical theatre has an extensive schedule of theatre productions and live shows. Most of them cater to the locals, so check before booking.

4F, Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd

I.Sawan Residential Spa & Club

The luxury you'd expect at a five-star hotel, at five-star prices. Most of their treatments take at least three hours, but are famed as among the best of Thailand.

Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, 494 Ratchadamri Rd

2,600-3,200 baht/hr

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BSC Bowl

This is a bowling centre that does a fine job if you're looking for a night out with friends. It is huge, with dozens of bowling alleys.

3F, RCA Plaza, 31/6-9 Royal City Ave

10:00-01:00 daily

Co van Kessel

Many cycling tours through Bangkok, taking in Chinatown, the canals of Thonburi, the "Bangkok Jungle" and many other places in between.

950-1,950 baht

Follow Me Bicycle Tours

Half-day bicycle tours through Bangkok's residential streets. Included in the price is a fish spa and a barbecue meal after the tour.

126 Sathorn Tai Rd

1,000 baht

Bangkok Biking

Bicycle tours in small groups to and through unseen parts of Bangkok. Mostly free of traffic. A fun excursion for the whole family.

Baan Sri Kung 350/123, Soi 71, Rama III Rd

950-2,400 baht

SpiceRoads

Many one and multi-day cycling trips in and around Bangkok. There are trips to the Bangkok Jungle, Ko Kret, Yaowarat, and Thonburi.

45 Soi Pannee, Pridi Banomyong Soi 26, Sukhumvit Soi 71

2,950 baht

Grasshopper Adventures

Tours through the historic Rattanakosin district of Bangkok, to the outskirts of Bangkok and one that takes place at night.

57 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd

1,000-1,600 baht

Happy Feet

This massage parlour offers excellent traditional Thai massage, oil massage, aromatherapy, foot massage and nail care.

Sukhumvit Soi 7

10:00-23:00 daily

300 baht/hr

Go Bangkok Tours

Bicycle tours, some of which are GPS-guided, and bicycle rentals. Small groups, max 6. Safe and fun.

51 Charoen Krung, Soi 44, Bang Rak

350-1,500 baht

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Royal Turf Club of Thailand

This is a venue for horse races under royal patronage. Races are held every two weeks on Sunday.

183 Phitsanulok Rd

Every two weeks on Su, 12:30-18:00

50-100 baht

Royal Bangkok Sports Club

This is a venue for horse races under royal patronage. Races are held every two weeks on Sunday.

1 Henri Dunant Rd

Every two weeks on Sunday 12:30-18:00

50-100 baht

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Golden Dome Cabaret

Another one of Bangkok's typical ladyboy shows. Three shows are given every evening.

252/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 18

Showtime 17:00, 19:00 and 22:00 daily

BODY Tune

Well-respected small chain offering excellent traditional Thai massages.

2F, Yada Bldg, 56 Silom Rd

10:00-00:00 daily

350 baht/hr

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Center Point Boutique Spa

Offers excellent traditional massage in a soothing environment.

2/16 Sukhumvit Soi 24

10:00-01:00 daily, last booking 23:30

400-1,900 baht