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Is Bangkok’s noise and traffic finally driving you nuts? Then forget downtown Bangkok. Get some peace (and excitement) just 30 minutes away from Pratunam at Bangkok’s famous riverside area!

Not sure what you can do here? Other than the customary temple-hopping, you’ll be able to:

  • Visit Instagrammable cafes (and say cheeseeee!!)

  • Shop your heart out at one of the city’s artsy markets

  • Eat local delights at Bangkok’s ritziest shopping mall

  • Relish the majestic views of the Chao Phraya River (as you eat, shop, and travel)

  • Sleep being accompanied by the Chao Phraya River night scene

  • And more!!!

To make your life easier, we’ve listed 16 unique, must-do things for a super fun riverside adventure!

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags (and wallets!!), take this list, and let’s go!! 😀

Read more:

15 romantic restaurants with a view to dine in at Bangkok!

14 must-try food in Yaowarat Chinatown Bangkok known mostly to locals

14 Night markets in Bangkok within 30mins from Pratunam you won’t want to miss (ranked from super secret to most famous)

Shopping Places (for the shopaholics)

1. Enjoy local delights at Bangkok’s ritziest mall’s floating market – Sook Siam @ ICONSIAM

Discover all of Thailand’s delicious delights at Sook Siam, an area in ICONSIAM styled as a floating market dedicated to introducing Thailand’s 4 regions. Try out various kinds of local food, from traditional desserts like Khanom Khrok (coconut-rice pancakes) to main dishes like Pad Thai.

Photo Via Mo9191, Hw04_
Photo Via TripCanvas
Photo Via TripCanvas

Eat your delicious finds as you explore Sook Siam or sit down on one of the chairs in the area.

When you’re done, check out other stalls selling food souvenirs or local products like ceramic pots you can bring home.

Photo Via TripCanvas
Photo Via TripCanvas

Or else, take a look around ICONSIAM. After all, you’re in Bangkok’s grandest shopping mall!

Photo Via TripCanvas

Sook Siam @ ICONSIAM

Price: from 45 Baht / approx. USD $1.42
Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Ton Sai, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: take the BTS to Saphan Taksin pier then the free shuttle boat from Sathorn pier to ICONSIAM or take the BTS to Krung Thonburi pier then the free shuttle bus to ICONSIAM or take the cab (more information)
Contact: +66 2 437 0711
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 10pm

Website


2. Shop your essentials at the riverside market – Talad Saphan Phut Night Market (ตลาดสะพานพุทธ Night Market)

Need a wardrobe overhaul? Get some new clothes, a pair of shoes, a couple of bags, and anything else you can find (all for an affordable price) at Talad Saphan Phut Night Market.

Photo Via Tk_snkrz111, Shengwei_fang, Dounya_laraki
Photo Via Pphasphngsaawasrii, Poomkook

And if you DO get hungry while shopping, enjoy some local delights like Som Tum (Thai Green Papaya Salad) and Pla Pao (Thai Salt-Grilled Fish).

Photo Via Chemisterror, Mini_a_nk, Saa_jaa_16

Located just a few minutes away from the Saphan Phut (Memorial Bridge) ferry terminal, easily come here by walking (FYI, you might need to walk for 17 minutes) or a taxi (7 minutes by cab from the ferry terminal).

Talad Saphan Phut Night Market

Price: from 30 Baht / approx. USD $0.94
Address: 14/1 Phaya Mai Rd, Khwaeng Somdet Chao Phraya, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take a cab or walk from the Saphan Phut ferry terminal
Contact: +66 81 371 9894
Opening hours: Daily from 5pm to 2am

Website

[Reopens during the year end] 3.  An old factory turned weekend hipster night market – The Knack Market @ The Jam Factory

PS: The Knack Market is closed for the rainy season and will reopen at the end of the year. Please check their Facebook for the latest update.

Stroll around the market as you enjoy the relaxing vibes around Chao Praya River and check out the numerous stalls offering a wide range of products. Ranging from scented candles to straw woven baskets to jewelries, we’re sure you’ll find something that suits your taste.

Photo Via Whitehatscloset, Tukkung, Touchbarr

If something catches your eyes, we suggest you to immediately buy it! Why? Because sellers here frequently change, so you might not find the item you’re looking for if you come again on another day.

Photo Via Fuuiofficial-6, Earring_studio, Boo_fur, Soapaholicstudio

Once you’re done, wind down at the open space as you listen to the live band and eat your striploin steak and seafood spaghetti. There are also lighter options like fruit juices and sausages (perfect for those who just want something to nibble on).

Photo Via Maiirilyn, Chor.an_.chan, Seang_cajon
Photo Via Muu_dew, Iknowyouarehungry, Meenamanee, Wanleekitchen

The Knack Market

Price: from 50 Baht / USD $1.59
Address: 41/1-5 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Khlong San, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600 (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take a cab directly to The Jam Factory
Contact: +66 2 861 0950
Opening hours: Every last Saturday and Sunday of the month from 4pm to 9pm
Facebook

Website

Places to Eat

Whether you care about the food you’re eating or the eatery location, Bangkok’s riverside area can definitely satisfy all your wants and needs. Here are 5 places sure to delight all foodies!

4. Dine at a traditional Thai house by the river – Thiptara @ The Peninsula

Feel like you’re back in ancient Thailand as you dine on authentic Thai dishes in one of the Thai traditional houses at Thiptara. But if you want a clearer view of the riverside at night, we recommend sitting at one of the tables beside the river.

Photo Via Wkposner, Chloelin.niu_
Photo Via Jungkwan0727, Lyndenlam

Throughout your dinner, live traditional Thai music played using Khim (a Thai string instrument) will accompany you. And on special occasions, there may even be a Thai puppet dance performance!

Photo Via Ve_magalhaes, Pheebs_lau
Photo Via Coldpink55, Mayassmiles, Lyndenlam

Don’t forget to take pictures with the Thai traditional houses adorning the restaurant before you leave to remember your night!

Thiptara @ The Peninsula

Price: from 280 Baht / approx. USD $8.81
Address: 333 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Ton Sai, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take the BTS to BTS Saphan Taksin, followed by a free shuttle boat from The Peninsula at the Sathorn pier to The Peninsula
Contact: +66 2 020 2888
Opening hours: Daily from 6pm to 10:30pm

Website

5. It’s a picture-perfect gem with fine wines and great food – The Deck by Arun Residence

Property of the Arun Residence, The Deck is a little hidden paradise overlooking the river, with a mesmerising backdrop of Wat Arun by the Rattanakosin horizon.

Photo Via _gmwc

The three-floor deck offers up fine wines and great Thai and Western food, and also showcases breathtakingly beautiful sunsets daily!

Make sure to book your table at the top deck and reach before sunset to complete your evening beautifully.

Photo Via Inging1st

We guarantee that this picture-perfect gem will leave you in the bubbly mood, and with a beautiful memory to wistfully talk about for days.

Photo Via Yimyeom, Pod_lalala, Phacharanonkritthiyakorn, Jupiterez

The Deck by Arun Residence

Price: from 251-500 Baht / approx. USD $7-15
Address: 36-38 Soi Pratu Nokyung, Maharaj Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand Alter (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take a boat to Tha Tien and walk to the restaurant or take a cab
Contact: +66 2 221 9158
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 10pm

Website

Instagrammable Cafes (for the sweet ones ^^)

6. Vintage + sweet goodies + temples – Ha Tien Cafe

A fan of vintage things? Then you’ll love it here! Get your sugar fix at this cosy, vintage-looking coffee shop located just a few steps away from Wat Pho.

Photo Via Ttwenty.fo, Eatchamp

Not sure what to get? Choose from fan-favourites like blueberry cheesecake and chocolate cake to more adventurous choices like butterfly pea drinks.

As you wait for your drinks and cakes, sit at one of the rustic tables before snapping away. With deer heads and photo frames of different shapes and sizes as your backdrop – your aesthetic-looking images will definitely make your Instagram followers feel jelly!

Photo Via Ampere_athisa, Mojiratchayaa, Jamiie_sucha
Photo Via Ampm_, Bunnyktn, Tonraktonlike

Ha Tien Cafe

Price: from 90 Baht/ approx. USD $2.84
Address: 4 Maha Rat Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take the cab here or take the boat to Tha Tien (ท่าเตียน) Pier (opposite Wat Arun) and walk for 3 minutes
Contact: +66 64 296 5549
Opening hours: Tue-Fri from 10am to 8pm, Sat-Sun from 9am to 8pm

Website

7. Blue walls? Blue drinks?! Blue everything!!! – Blue Whale Cafe

Say what? You’re obsessed with the colour blue? Then this is for you. Fully decorated in everything blue, this cafe will definitely put a smile on every blue lovers’ face, even in the smouldering heat.

Photo Via Yun_24416, Cherriemun

Blue Whale Maharaj is popular for their blue-coloured drinks, namely Iced Butterfly Pea Latte, Hot butterfly Pea Latte, and [Iced] Blue Whale Sour (although this one is more purple than blue).

Photo Via Ms_noknow, Tanyafah, Dedeer_deerato

But fret not you non-blue lovers. Blue Whale Cafe also offers “normal” drinks like Cappucino, Chocolate, and Espresso.

Photo Via Chuichatchavee, Kakate, Opaln89, Yun_24416

Drinks not filling you up? Get some croissant, toast or rice! 😀

Don’t forget to take pictures beside the whales or other picturesque spots in the cafe as you wait for your orders too.

Blue Whale Cafe

Price: from 120 Baht/ approx. USD $3.79
Address: 392, 37 Maha Rat Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take the cab here or take the boat to Tha Tien (ท่าเตียน) Pier (opposite Wat Arun) and walk for 3 minutes
Contact: +66 96 997 4962
Opening hours: Fri-Weds from 8am to 10pm (Closed Thursdays)

Website

8. Thai Chinese delicious treats for all foodies – Yaowarat (Chinatown)

If you’re a foodie in love with Thai and Chinese food, drop by Yaowarat during evenings when numerous food carts open their businesses.

Photo Via Gerdaaboushanab, Christelle_lg
Photo Via Gerdaaboushanab, Qpjj0927

Be spoiled with choices from heavy meals like pork satay, to light treats like fried dough sticks and even sweet goodies like birds’ nest.

Not a dinner/supper person? Lucky for you, some of the food carts and brick-and-mortar restaurants at Yaowarat are open in the mornings! So feel free to drop by whenever you feel like eating something delicious!

Photo Via TripCanvas, Ink_aroi
Photo Via Palrak, TripCanvas

But if you do come at night, you’ll be welcomed by the iconic bright red and yellow signs that light up Yaowarat only after it gets dark.

Yaowarat

Price: from 30 Baht / approx. USD $0.95
Address: 452, 442 Yaowarat Rd, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khet Samphanthawong, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting here: Take the MRT to Hua Lamphong MRT station and walk here; Take BTS to Saphan Taksin and take Chao Phraya Express boat from Sathorn Pier Central to Pier 5 (and then walk to the road)
Opening hours: Tue-Sun from 6.30pm to 12pm

9. Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River – Chao Phraya Princess

Who says you can’t enjoy Bangkok Riverside’s night scene to the fullest? Expect to be wowed as you board Chao Phraya Princess.

In this 2-hour buffet dinner cruise, you’ll get to see main spots like Wat Arun and Grand Palace over dinner.

Photo Via Natalia_volokhova, Porboyd, Vineetmadkey

When you’re done, we recommend heading upstairs to the rooftop deck. Here, you can take pictures and enjoy the river scenery as you feel the river breeze. And in case you start getting bored, there’ll be a live band to sweeten your night!

Photo Via Sigitpams, Duyen.pham_.mm_

Got a food preference? Chao Phraya Princess offers International and Indian cuisine. Don’t forget to state your preference during booking though, or else you’ll get the standard International cuisine.

Photo Via Emerald.davantes, Mery_chen
Photo Via Dessy.saputraa, Anhson_mcmxciv

Unique to Chao Phraya Princess, you can choose to board from 3 piers (Asiatique, River City, and ICONSIAM). Note that you’ll alight at the same pier you boarded from.

Note: Indian cuisine is only available for those boarding from the River City Pier.

Chao Phraya Princess

Price: 1,500 Baht / approx. USD $47.22 (adult); 1,100 Baht / approx. USD $34.63 (children)
Address:
Asiatique Pier: 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Phrayakrai District, Bangkor Laem, Bangkok 10120 (Coordinates here)
Si Phraya Pier (River City Pier): 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talard Noi, Si Phraya, Sampantawong, Bangkok, Thailand 10100 (Coordinates here)
ICONSIAM Pier: 299 Soi Charoen Nakhon 5, Charoen Nakhon Road, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600 (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 2 860 3700
Dinner cruise time: Daily from 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Website

Where to Stay

Fully experience the calming vibes of Chao Phraya River and its scenic views by staying along the riverside. Here are 2 affordable hotels you could consider staying at!

10. Affordable stay by the riverside – V VAREE Bangkok

Got a limited budget but dreaming of staying by the riverside? Dream no more folks. You’re literally by the river (without burning a hole in your pocket) when you stay at V VAREE Bangkok’s Deluxe Room.

Photo Via Bellebackgeisha

Now, you can enjoy the changing scenery of the Chao Phraya River from the comforts of your room and terrace. But do note that you’ll only get a partial river view from your room. We recommend going down to their patio area for the best views of the river and the Rama VIII bridge.

Photo Via Orangegirlp, Puckpick_inboots
Photo Via Film_vichachill

The room is also equipped with a double bed, mini refrigerator, safety box, and free wifi to ensure you have a comfortable stay.

And if you ever get bored, just walk 10 minutes to reach Khao San Road to find numerous bars and eateries.

V VAREE Bangkok

Rate: From 1,031 Baht / $38 per night
Address: 22 Soi Lamphu, Soi Samsen 1, Wat Sam Phraya, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 2 044 9909
Website

Check Rate on Agoda

11. European-style hotel meets Bangkok’s riverside – Riva Surya Bangkok Hotel

Floor-to-ceiling windows with a full view of the Chao Phraya River?! Who could say no to that?! Spot the boats passing by as you comfortably lay in bed.

Photo Via Thaofootprint

What’s more, you won’t even feel like you’re in Thailand! The Riva Room is bedecked in European-style furniture, with tones of grey, brown and white – a definite reminder of European castles and cobblestones.

Photo Via Kiizkatz
Photo Via Jejureigh, Ymeve
Photo Via Mikucamera_bkk, Sakdithat

A mini refrigerator and in-room safe box is also provided inside your room, in case you need to chill your food or drinks or store your precious belongings.

Riva Surya Bangkok Hotel

Rate: from 3,059 Baht / $96 per night
Address: 23 Phra Athit Rd, Khwaeng Chana Songkhram, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 2 633 5000
Website

Check Rate on Agoda

Things to Do

Discover some of fun things you can do around the riverside area during the day until late at night!

12. Spend your afternoon at a 19th century Chinese mansion – Lhong 1919 (ล้ง 1919)

No longer operating as a mansion, everyone is welcome to come and do some shopping, dine with loved ones, or hold a photo session. You can even pray to Mazu, the god of seafarers, at its shrine if you’re keen!

Photo Via Meemeeteddyys, Zoe_taaha
Photo Via _pinit9, Zoe_taaha, Kaojisan
Photo Via Johnnaraah, Rubywook

Lhong 1919 is also a great place to spend your afternoon lazing around. Sit on one of the benches scattered at its courtyard while you bond with your beloved one and see boats pass by.

If you’re still around until night time, catch red lanterns being lit up around the complex.

Photo Via Chinchinna5966

Lhong 1919

Entrance fee: free
Address: 248 Chiang Mai Rd, Khwaeng Khlong San, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600 (Coordinates here)
Opening Hours: Monday from 11am to 8pm, Tue-Sun from 9am to 8pm
Contact No: +66 91 187 1919

Website

13. Bustling night market by the river – Asiatique the Waterfront

Whether you took a cab or the free shuttle boat to Asiatique the Waterfront, you’ll know you’ve arrived once you see bright lights, hoards of people, and the giant Ferris Wheel with the “Chang” sign.

Photo Via Lijurajeev360, Daniluxsca
Photo Via Yulie.06, Kaylazahraa

For hungry ones, you have a choice of pricey seafood restaurants facing the Chao Phraya River to mid-priced Thai-style shabu-shabu restaurant (MK Restaurant) – and even cheaper priced food stalls.

Photo Via _allmine, Yuk.eat_

But if shopping is what you seek, Asiatique the Waterfront sells everything from Naraya bags and Thai snacks to sunglasses, beaded necklaces, Thai boxing gears and more.

Photo Via Shinji.nakashima079

While you’re here, don’t miss out on two of Thailand’s most iconic shows, Muay Thai Live and Calypso Cabaret Show.

TripCanvas Tip: Sit on one of the benches located along the Waterfront District to relax and experience the beauty of the Chao Phraya River at night.

PS: This night market is definitely on the expensive side, and is more for those who are also looking for local Thai brands. If you’re looking for a more traditional night market experience, this isn’t it.

Asiatique the Waterfront

Price: from 100 Baht / USD $3.14
Address: 2194 Charoen Krung Rd, Khwaeng Wat Phraya Krai, Khet Bang Kho Laem, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120 (Coordinates here)
Getting here: take a cab (approx. 20-35 min from Pratunam) or take the BTS to Saphan Taksin station and then the free shuttle boat from the pier to Asiatique
Contact: +66 92 246 0812
Opening hours: Daily from 4pm to 12am
Facebook

Website

14. See the emerald buddha at the former residence of Thai royalties – The Grand Palace

Not sure which temple to go to out of the hundreds of temples in Thailand? Then why not go to the most famous and grandest one of them all – The Grand Palace?!

The Grand Palace is one of the most famous (if not the most famous) and important temple in Thailand due to its importance as the former residence of Thai kings from 1782 to 1925 and the site of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Photo Via Doitforicecream, Tosya88
Photo Via Savvy.holmes, Onejohnb

That’s why although the King does not reside there anymore, it’s still occasionally used for official events. So don’t be surprised if The Grand Palace is closed on certain days.

Otherwise, it’s bejeweled prangs and golden buildings make it an impressive sight for everyone to see and take pictures with.

Photo Via Arianelavoie, Wanderlass0311, Nadine_yvonnele

(Tip: Check their website or call them to know the opening hours on a specific day.)

PS: Please wear shoes (instead of sandals) and clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to be allowed entrance to the temple complex.

The Grand Palace

Entrance fee: 500 Baht / approx. USD $16.23
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200 (Coordinates here)
Contact: 02-623-5500 ext. 1830, 3100
Opening hours: Daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm

Website

15. Enjoy the serenity of the temple located by the river – Wat Arun Ratchawararam

Just a few minutes away from The Grand Palace is Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or also known as Temple of Dawn. Although much smaller in scale and not as grand, its distinctive prang (tower) has made Wat Arun Ratchawararam a must-go temple when you’re in the riverside area.

Photo Via Planningplanner, Fadillaaff, Anneothman, Ayu_b.saidan_fayyristravel

For the more adventurous ones, you can opt to climb the stairs of the prang to reach higher levels. However, note that you won’t be able to enter the prang nor climb to the highest level (only climbing to the first level is permitted).

Photo Via Lennyleemey
Photo Via Heytherenorah, Victoriaruddle

Once you’re done, we recommend taking a short break at one of the fruit stalls next to the temple. My favourite is the coconut stall, where you drink right from the fruit on the spot! Nothing’s better than a refreshing coconut!

Tip: If you don’t wish to climb up the prangs and just look from afar, you can opt to just roam around the complex at no cost (entrance fee only applies if you enter the prang area).

PS: Please wear shoes (instead of sandals) and clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to be allowed entrance to the temple complex.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam

Entrance fee: 50 Baht / approx. USD $1.62
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600 (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 2 891 2185
Opening hours: Daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm

Website

16. Meet Bangkok riverside’s fashionable all-in-one cafe and creative space – The Jam Factory

Looking for a place to chill with style? Look no further than The Jam Factory. Located at an old factory, The Jam Factory is one of the artsiest spaces by the riverside where people can relax.

Photo Via Anistagraam, Niceapinyas

Here, you’ll find stylish fashion and furniture brands, restaurants, a bookstore and a creative space whose exhibition changes frequently. Thus, it’s highly recommended to check their Facebook page or website to know the latest exhibition held at The Jam Gallery.

Photo Via Milacataldo, Dontzr, 2_kridsada
Photo Via Land1985

The Jam Factory also hosts The Knack Market, a weekend night market that takes place on the last weekend of every month. (Note: The Knack Market is closed for the rainy season and will reopen at the end of the year. Check their website for the latest update.)

The Jam Factory

Entrance fee: free
Address: 41/1-5 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Khlong San, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600 (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 2 861 0950
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 8pm
Facebook

Website

Excited? Me too! I simply adore all that the underrated Bangkok’s Riverside has to offer.

Go get started exploring all the fun places scattered around Bangkok’s riverside!! 😀

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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