As the biggest city in Thailand, Bangkok isn’t usually top of mind when considering the most ‘beautiful’ travel destinations in the country. But I was pleasantly surprised with the local charm and the vibrant culture I found in the streets of the city – especially after the few harsh reviews I had read before my visit.
I personally think that this part of Thailand doesn’t get nearly the hype it deserves. There are actually some seriously beautiful things to do and Instagrammable places in Bangkok! And as a solo female traveler in Asia, I never worried once while exploring Bangkok alone!
So if you’re wondering just what to do in Bangkok, I’ve put together a nifty little list of the places worthy of your time and your feed! I’ve included all important info about each Bangkok tourist attraction to simplify your adventures.
And be sure to check out my ultimate list of Thailand travel tips too!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, if you click my links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Learn more on my disclosure page. Thank you for your support!
30 Best Instagram Spots in Bangkok
1. Chang Chui Plane Night Market
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Chang Chui is a night market that’s been built with various recycled materials around a massive decommissioned airplane. Visitors come to eat fabulous local street food, check out art exhibits, and pursue the impressive shopping and handicrafts from local artisans.
The market is located in a quiet neighborhood away from the city center, and is open Thursday – Tuesdays (closed Wednesdays), 11am – 11pm. It is a bit of a trek from the heart of the city, but worth the time and Grab ride.
2. Airplane Graveyard
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The Airplane Graveyard in Bangkok is exactly what it sounds like – a wide space in the city where broken airplanes are laid to rest. Instagrammers, photographers and tourists enjoy playing, climbing and photographing the ruins.
Locals have taken up residence in a few of the empty shells so be respectful and don’t walk into any areas that belong to another. These same locals charge a small entrance fee to get in and it seems to depend on how they’re feeling at the moment. People have reported paying anywhere from 100 – 800 baht, but aim for 300 baht ($9.55) for a good middle ground.
Read up on how to get to the airplane graveyard before your visit.
3. Wat Sampran Dragon Temple
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This dragon temple was on my radar from the get go, but sadly I just didn’t have the time in my short 4 days in Bangkok to make it to Wat Samphran. Located about an hour from the city center, it does require a bit of effort to get here.
But for epic dragon views like these – it looks like it’s well worth the effort! Learn more about how to get to Wat Samphran and what to expect at Silly Little Kiwi! This was one of the things to do in Bangkok I was bummed to have missed.
There is no entrance fee and it’s open daily from about 6 am – 6 pm.
4. Chaloemla Graffiti Park
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I stumbled upon Chaloemla Graffiti Park as I was walking to and from the Siam Center from my hostel. The vibrant energy and colors of the park immediately caught my attention and I actually went to watch an exciting game of street basketball for a bit.
I’ve never read about this park in any other travel guides, but I think it has a lot of potential in terms of killer Instagram spots in Bangkok. I was too shy to set up my tripod in front of everyone – solo travel problems – so someone please go take a pic in my honor and tag me!
5. Wat Arun Temple
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Thailand is famous for the countless opulent Buddhist temples that dot the country, and Bangkok has no shortage of must-see temples. Wat Arun happens to be my favorite temple and what I feel to be one of the most Instagrammable places in Bangkok.
You have to take a super short little ferry across the river to get there, which was such a fun and unique experience. That means the temple grounds are pretty peaceful and quiet because it’s a bit remote from the bustle of the city. Not only that, but the temple itself is beautiful and very picturesque.
The entrance fee for Wat Arun is 50 baht ($1.60) and the ferry to the temple is about 3 baht. It’s a beautiful place to visit for sunset but the morning will have less people.
6. Wat Pho Temple
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Wat Pho is another popular temple and is best known for the massive golden reclining Buddha statue and the intricately detailed stupas, or chedis in Thai, that hold the ashes of the royal family. Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and attracts large crowds every day due to its beauty and cultural significance.
The entrance fee is 200 baht ($6.40) and the temple is open daily from 8 am – 6:30 pm. Remember your temple etiquette, and come early to beat the crowds.
7. The Grand Palace
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The Grand Palace truly matches the name. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen such opulence in so many buildings in one large complex! The buildings and temples literally glitter and shine in the sunlight and are true works of art.
The palace and surrounding grounds were the official residence of the royal family from 1782 – 1925. Don’t miss the Emerald Buddha while visiting and prepare for some massive crowds.
It costs 500 baht ($15.92) to get in, by far the most expensive Thai entrance fee, and it’s open daily 8:30 am – 3:30 pm.
8. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
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There are actually a few floating markets in Bangkok to enjoy, but Damnoen Saduak is the most popular and the largest! Vendors sell various goods and even freshly cooked street foods from the seat of their boats they row up and down the canals.
There are a lot of tours and scams to get here, but you can save a ton of money by just doing it yourself. You have to have a keen eye for scams though! It’s about an hour by shared public van and you can walk to the market without being scammed into taking a fake and expensive boat to the actual market.
Check out this guide for how to visit the Damnoen Floating Market yourself. You’ll literally save like $30 for those on a budget!
9. Maeklong Railway Market
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Bangkok is filled with many temples, and many unique markets. The Maeklong Railway Market is another unique local market where vendors lay out their wares across an active train track. Like a bolt of lightning the stand owners quickly pick up and lay back down their goods before and after the train passes. I hear it’s a sight to see!
The Railway Market is another Bangkok attraction that’s a bit of a hike to get to. Located about an hour outside of the city, you’ll have to find an effective way to get there. Check out this Maeklong Railway Market guide.
10. Wat Saket Temple
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Wat Saket, also known as The Golden Mound, is a gilded temple that’s perched above the city and offers visitors fantastic birds-eye views of Bangkok. Built during the Ayutthaya period in the 1700s, this Buddhist temple is well worth the 300-step climb to the top.
Entrance into Wat Saket is from 7:30 am – 7:00 pm daily, and costs only 50 baht ($1.60).
11. Ayutthaya Ancient Capital City
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Ayutthaya is an ancient city about 45 miles away from Bangkok that was once the country’s capital. Today, tourists visit to take in the impressive ruins and ancient history of the area that date back to the 1300s. Don’t miss the famous Buddha head that has grown amongst the roots of the trees!
To get there, you can take a bus from the northeastern bus terminal in Bangkok, or the scenic 2-hour train that departs daily from Hua Lamphong Station. Learn more about how to visit Ayutthaya yourself from Bangkok.
There really isn’t a set entrance fee, but donations are expected for each temple complex so factor in about 50-100 baht or $2-3/temple for a total of about $10 for the day.
12. Wat Benchamabophit Temple
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Every temple in Bangkok is famous for some specific aspect, and Wat Benchamabophit’s claim to fame is its luxurious marble construction, ornate steeple style roofs and gilded details. It’s considered one of the most famous and beautiful temples in the city so it fills up fast with large buses of tour groups.
The entrance fee for Wat Benchamabophit is only 50 baht ($1.60), 8:00 am – 5:30 pm.
13. SHUGAA Cafe
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I love a cute cafe, and lucky for us there are tons of trendy and instagrammable cafes in Bangkok! SHUGAA Cafe serves up some delectable and Insta-friendly desserts and beverages inside of their bright and contemporary interior. Stop by for a sugar fix and to snap a few pics before continuing on your Bangkok adventures.
14. Wat Ratchanatdaram (Loha Prasat) Temple
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Loha Prasat is a relatively small temple compared to the many on this list, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve your attention! What makes this temple so unique is the 37 golden spires that cover the rooftop. Each one represents the 37 enlightened virtues of Buddhism. You can climb to the rooftop and get some pretty cool views of the city between the spires.
Entrance is only 20 baht ($0.65) and it’s open every day between 9:00am – 5:00pm.
15. Rot Fai Market
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Rot Fai Market is a massive open-air, tented market that sells a vast array of different Thai and international street foods, handicrafts, and goods from hundreds of vendors. You can spend hours wandering around the maze of little shops and snapping photos of the rainbow tent-tops from above.
The best vantage points to see the market from above will be from the parking garage next to the market, as well as from a number of nearby bars. You’ll have to do some hunting!
16. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
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Bangkok’s Art and Culture Centre is free to visit and showcases various different exhibits throughout the building. Visitors enjoy the art and culture that’s on display as well as the fabulous architecture throughout the building. The center has air conditioning and a cafe inside that makes for a perfect rest stop while exploring the city. For those seeking artsy places in Bangkok, you should consider stopping by the culture centre.
It’s open between 10am – 9pm and is free to enter.
17. Erawan Museum
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So I actually didn’t find out about this place until only days after I left Bangkok and I was so bummed I missed out on such a stunning architectural gem! The entire museum is a romantic fairytale with friends molding, grand spiral staircases, pink facades and the famous three-headed elephant statue.
Entrance is 300 baht ($9.55) and it’s open everyday from 9am – 7pm.
18. Tenshino Japanese Restaurant
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Tenshino Japanese Restaurant has become known not only for the exquisite food they serve but also the modern and super chic decor. Come grab a cocktail and feel fabulous immersed in their hip vibes. Don’t forget to snap a quick pic while you’re there!
19. 137 Pillars Suites and Residences
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137 Pillars Suites and Residences is a 4-star hotel in Bangkok with an incredible roof-top infinity pool overlooking Bangkok’s skyline. Inside, most of the rooms and suites have killer views and impressive interior decor. If you’re looking for a VIP experience and to be pampered while visiting Bangkok, you’ll definitely want to consider staying here!
You must be a guest to access the pool and sadly they do not offer day passes for non-guests.
20. Sky Bar
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There are quite a few rooftops in Bangkok to choose from, but Sky Bar is a popular choice made famous in the movie Hangover II. Come a little early to ensure you can nab a table and prepare to feel a smidge bougey as you sip expensive cocktails overlooking the impressive city views.
21. Vanilla Sky Bar
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As there are so many worthy rooftop bars to choose from in Bangkok, I won’t bore you anymore after Vanilla Sky Bar. What makes Vanilla Sky Bar different from the one mentioned above, is this is the city’s first rooftop nightclubs. The bar scene transforms as the night progresses from chill cocktails to bumping dance music put on by live DJs.
22. Chinatown
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Chinatown is a little neighborhood in Bangkok that oozes Chinese culture and heritage. You’ll want to head for Yaowarat Road and explore from there. Take in the vibrant neon signs, enticing smells and delicious street foods. Come in the evening to see the district truly light up.
23. Mahanakhon Skywalk
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At the top of Bangkok’s tallest tower, you can peep fantastic 360 views of the city from the Mahanakhon glass skywalk that’s 314 meters (1,030 feet) tall! There is both an indoor and outdoor observation deck as well as a Skyride for those who are up for it. The entrance is a bit expensive though ranging from 712 baht – 880 baht ($22 – $28) depending on timing and ticket preferred.
24. Sunkist Basketball Court + Highway Court
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I actually learned about this beautifully unique Insta spot in Bangkok from Once Upon a Journey! It’s a brightly colored basketball court that makes for some pretty fun drone shots – although may not be as fun without an actual drone. At the very least you could shoot some hoops in the process.
There’s also a basketball court that’s famous for its placement directly between two major highways! It makes for a very cool drone shot too.
25. Sretsis Parlour, Central Embassy Hotel
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According to many reviews online, this place is best only as a photo stop in Bangkok and the service and cakes are just so-so. The interior is super adorable however, and it’s the place to come adorably dressed up for some fancy and pretentious tea, coffee and treats. Visit as you see fit!
26. Lumpini Park
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Lumpini Park is like the Central Park of Bangkok and is a 142-acre green space for people to enjoy in the city.
There’s an artificial lake where you can rent a boat if you’d like as well as walking paths and great views of Bangkok’s skyline.
The park is open from 4:30am – 9pm.
27. Khao San Road Night Market
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Khao San Road is the famous party and tourist street in the city that has pretty much everything you could possibly need as a visiting traveler. At night, the road transforms into a massive night market serving up some stellar local goodies. Chances are you’re probably staying in this area, so you’ll definitely want to stop by one night and take a gander at the local stalls.
28. Unicorn Cafe
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If you’re obsessed with bright colors, cute desserts and unicorns, the famous Bangkok Unicorn Cafe has your name all over it! This place seriously looks like a unicorn threw up all over it – and I mean that in the absolute best way. There are two unicorn cafes in Bangkok, and they are both located right next to each other.
Try to avoid the peak eating times so you can actually grab a seat!
29. Pak Khlong Flower Market
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The Pak Khlong Flower Market is floral heaven. Come to enjoy the flower sights, smells and pick up a bouquet to enjoy during your stay in the city! The flowers make for a beautiful backdrop for Instagram photo opportunities in Bangkok and the local vendors will surely appreciate your patronage.
30. Sofitel Bangkok Hotel
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If you have any experience staying in a Sofitel Hotel, you’ll already have a great idea of how stunning this chain of hotels tend to be – and Bangkok is no exception.
On the rooftop of the Sofitel, is an Infinity pool that overlooks the massive skyscrapers below. It’s a wonderful place to sunbathe and take a break from the hectic city for the day. The rooms are also perfect for romantic or realizing getaways.
How to Take Great Instagram Photos in Bangkok
Now that you know exactly what and where the beautiful sights in Bangkok are located, it’s time to master that Insta shot! Here are just a few of my tips to help your feed thrive.
1. Put yourself in the shot.
Adding a person into your travel photos really helps add perspective and a human element that will resonate better with your audience. It helps others better connect with you and your content when they see you in your own adventures.
2. Change your angles.
Change up how you shoot the classic Bangkok Instagram spots. A lot of these destinations have gone viral on social media, so adding a unique touch to a popular photo can add a nice touch.
3. Try a tripod.
This is for all my solo travelers! A tripod will really save your photos and give you that freedom to take the exact shot you want without pestering another person.
4. Don’t forget the wireless remote.
No tripod shot is complete without a wireless remote to give you the time you need to set up your pose, wait for the crowds to clear and perfectly compose your photo. I love the Bluetooth remote from Hisy.
5. Be goofy and have fun!
The best photos tend to be the ones where we aren’t taking ourselves seriously and let out a fun and genuine laugh! Have no shame and go for it. People will always hate but these photos will last you forever.
There’s more where that came from – I’ve got plenty of how to take great Instagram pictures tips!
Of course there are so many more Instagram worthy spots in Bangkok – but these Id say are enough to ignite your sense of wanderlust!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, if you click my links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Learn more on my disclosure page. Thank you for your support!
Did I miss any obvious Bangkok photography spots that should’ve made the list?! Share below!
Wow a lot of good spots here I didn’t know about! Wish I could’ve seen the floating market & the tower with the dragon wrapped around!
Thanks dear!! I spent the morning visiting the floating markets and they were so cool!!! I never made it to the dragon temple though so def need to head back there one day!!
This is an amazing IG guide! I wish I knew about a lot of these spots when I went to Bangkok a few years ago. I totally need to get back. 🙂
I also didn’t know about a lot of these places until it was too late!! Let’s go back together 😂
OMG the Way Arun Temple and the Unicorn cafe would be right up my alley! So much beautiful photography here too!
Wat Arun is GORG!! It’s one of the smaller temples but I spent so much time there!!!
Looks like I need to go to Thailand asap once everything’s normal again! This is such an inspiring post and the photos totally made me dream 🙂
I’m already daydreaming about going back!! I’m sure you’d capture the sights of Bangkok so beautifully ❤️
We spent a few days in Bangkok and would have loved to explore even more but to be honest we hated the transportation and traffic. Just made everything so difficult and we even rented a motorbike one day but that ended up being more of a disaster! haha! There is so much to do and see so maybe we will have to go back one day to try again!
I completely agree – Bangkok is so hard to get around!! But a lot of these sights make the hassle worth it😍
Ahh these are all so cool! I love the airplane and the dragon temple 😁 I should have been heading to Thailand in about a week but obviously that’s been cancelled. I’ll definitely save this post for whenever I’m able to go again!
Awe man I’m sorry to hear that love!!! Nothing more disappointing than cancelling travel plans 🙁 I hope you can go soon!
Bangkok is such an interesting and colourful place. I never knew about the plane graveyard!
There is so much to do there!! And the plane graveyard is insane 🤩
Wow those are beautiful places, I haven’t been to many of them yet.but wish to. Thanks for sharing
Thank you!! I hope it helps with future Thailand travel planning ❤️
So many Places to visit in Bangkok, Never heard Bangkok has amazing Cafe scenes too. Love reading this Guide.
Thank you so much 😊 Cafe hopping into Bangkok is so good!!
So beautiful! Thailand is one of my favorite countries, and these places make me want to go back and explore more in detail this amazing destination. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thanks girlie!! I’m also dying to go back – you just need so much time to properly enjoy all of the beauty of Thailand!!
Bangkok is my fav and love to see all these IG spots … usually I get caried away when I’m there and don’t take almost any photos 😅 on my nect, 10th visit, I’ll try to create some IG worthy pics 🖤
I wish I was more like you!! Im always a little photo obsessed😅🤪 Have so much fun!!
Thanks for sharing this list of most instagrammable places in Bangkok, I hopefully will remember these if i make a return visit to Thailand one day 🙂