3 Fun-Themed Bangkok Cafes, Thailand

In the fast-moving city of Bangkok, where the passion for coffee seems to be on the constant rise, niche-themed cafes have become a bit of a thing. And I’m all for it! These Bangkok cafes join communities together that share an interest in something – cats, forests, mermaids, unicorns, you name it. No matter how random it might be, there seems to be a niche café for everyone!

These types of cafes seem to be something of another world in Bangkok – completely inheriting the topic into everything they do. So, needless to say, it had to be done!

I visited 3 quirky, Insta-worthy themed cafes in Bangkok Thailand and I’ll tell you everything I experienced there in the article below. In detail!

Pssst! Scroll down to the end of the article if you’re looking for a bonus list of themed cafes in Bangkok that I didn’t get to visit during my trip – but I so wish I did! Maybe you can add them to your itinerary instead?

Let’s go!

3 Instagrammable themed Bangkok cafes

1 – Unicorn Café

Bangkok’s Unicorn Café is, without a doubt, the most Instagrammable café in the city. Get ready because, once you step inside, you’ll enter a world of sparkles and rainbows where everything glitters and shines, even the food!

Pastel pinks and purples are everywhere; stuffed unicorns line sparkly sofas, pony dolls dangle from the ceiling, multicoloured cakes glitter at you from behind the glass counter. With one look, it becomes very clear that you won’t be leaving here without a long-lasting sugar high. The walls are decorated with acid pink and purple pony themed graffiti. Any 6-year-old would be driven wild with glee but, oddly, the clientele seems to be mainly adults.

Most people came for the same reason – to get photos posing with cute cakes and novelty decorations, snapping selfies dressed in cute unicorn onesies (which you can rent for 100 Baht / 3 US$)… and I did exactly the same!

The Unicorn Café is located in the Silom district and is actually split across two venues; zone A and zone B. They are literally 2 minutes apart, so you can easily walk between the two and check out both before deciding on a seat. Zone A is the original venue but it feels a bit older and duller than its younger, more vibrant sister, Zone B (which opened in 2017).

TIP: You can’t reserve tables, so if you’re visiting on the weekend during lunchtime, prepare yourself for a wait. I’d personally recommend going later in the afternoon for coffee and cake instead. You’ll have more space and a more relaxed experience.

NOTE: Make sure you bring cash as The Unicorn Café doesn’t accept card payments.

WHAT WE HAD & OUR EXPERIENCE

Hot chocolate (70THB / 2.14 US$) – Covered in a whirl of whipped cream and decorated with sprinkles, marshmallows and a little waffle cone for the horn. It was so picture-perfect and cute, I didn’t want to ruin it by taking a sip!

I only came by for a drink, but the Unicorn Café has an extensive menu of magical meals. Everything seems to be available in rainbow; rainbow spaghetti, rainbow crepes, rainbow milkshakes and horned unicorn burgers (you know, just to mix things up from all the rainbow).

Personally, I feel I’m a bit old-fashioned and like my food to be normal coloured. Luckily, they also have options on the menu that cater for my (obviously bland by their standards) palate.

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Closed on Mondays

ADDRESS: 44/1 Soi Sathon 8, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500. Find it on Google Maps here.
FACEBOOK: Unicorn Cafe
FOR THE GRAM: @unicornbrand

2 – Caturday Cat Cafe

Melissa playing around with cat in Cat cafe

Cat lovers, unite! Caturday Cat Café caters to all the cat lovers out there. Obviously, we had to visit. My boyfriend Guga is somewhat cat-obsessed (it’s not uncommon to find him procrastinating over cat videos on Reddit for hours).

First, they ask you to take off your shoes and wash your hands on arrival, before promising to abide by a set of rules created to protect our feline friends and stop them from being stressed out by overly eager visitors. The main rules are simple; don’t irritate, feed or pick up any cats.

Floor level tables have pillows scattered around them for seating (to get closer to the cats). They also have a few normal tables to choose from. Against the wall you’ll find a wooden frame filled with sleeping cats, all huddled into comfy, little cat beds. Cats seem to be everywhere; munchkin cats, Scottish folds, ragamuffins, exotic shorthairs – the space is full of cats of all shapes, colours and breeds. Luckily, they all seem to be very happy sharing their cafe home together!

However, almost all of them have zero interest in human interaction (they are cats, did you really expect much else?). If you’re imagining a magical experience where cats come meowing up to you for cuddles and deep, meaningful connections are formed, wipe that image from your mind. Just because you stick them in a cafe doesn’t stop them from being cats!

Some cats did become curious and sniffed us out a bit. Some even came to have a sleep by/on our table and allowed us to give them a little pet (in true cat fashion). The important thing is that the cats seem very happy. The staff are attentive, keep the space incredibly clean (no mess or cat hairs) and obviously know their kitties well.

WHAT WE HAD & OUR EXPERIENCE

Melissa – Matcha Milk Tea Frappe (138 THB / 4.20 US$)
Guga – Chocolate Frappe (138 THB / 4.20 US$)
To share: Thai French Beef Lasagne (148 THB / 4.50 US$)

We wanted to check out the food as well, but we weren’t particularly hungry, so we shared the lasagne. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. It was pretty good. Much better than I had expected! The menu has a lot of warm meals to choose from, along with sweet treats. For drinks, there were coffee options, smoothies, and frappes. The menu felt slightly overpriced, however, we had expected this as there was no entry cost and the cats need taking care of.

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 11.00am – 8.00pm
Closed on Mondays

ADDRESS: 10400, 89/70 Phayathai Rd, Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400. Find it on Google Maps here.
FACEBOOK: Caturday Cat Cafe
FOR THE GRAM: @caturdaycatcafe

3 – Cintage School

Cintage School is more than just a cafe. It’s actually a three-floor building with the café only taking up the top floor. The ground floor hosts a retro clothing shop that sells a mix of cute and colourful vintage pieces for bargain prices. On the second floor, you’ll find a nail salon known for its quirky nail art and fun designs.

The third and final floor is the cafe. Although the clothing shop has been popular for a while, Cintage School only gained its internet fame recently after adding an Insta-perfect set up to their location; a retro ball pit designed to look like a pastel coloured swimming pool!

On the second floor, you’ll also find some other cute photo setups. Following the “back to school” theme, there’s a section with little pink school desks set under a neon Cintage School crest and another section with a row of pink lockers covered in bright, colourful stickers.

Cintage School is defined by its baby pink branding, so if you’re looking for a girly, school-themed photo location – tie up your pigtails and grab your tartan skirt because this is the place for you!

WHAT WE HAD & OUR EXPERIENCE

Melissa – Pink Tea
Guga – Oreo Frappe
To share: White Chocolate Snoopy cake (85 THB / 2.60 US$)

Everything on the menu catered for a sweet tooth with sugary food and drinks. The menu at Cintage is limited. Everything was way too sweet for me personally but Guga enjoyed it as he was in the mood for dessert.

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS: Daily: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

ADDRESS: Siam Square Soi 6, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330 Thailand. Find it on Google Maps here.

FACEBOOK: Cintages hop

FOR THE GRAM: @cintageshop

BONUS – 7 More themed cafes in Bangkok we didn’t get to visit

These three places were the ones we got to visit (and we also liked a lot!) but, of course, Bangkok is filled with TONS of other themed cafes worth seeing. Here’s a round-up of some interesting ones with different themes and moods:

1 – THE BLOOMING GALLERY

If you’re a fan of botanical-themed English tearooms, this one’s for you. And trust me, they really take plants and flowers seriously – it’s like a green oasis there! And, as far as I’ve heard, their soft mousse cakes are a must-try if you’re looking for some flavourful desserts with local ingredients.

Address: 88/1, Thonglor Soi 8, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand

Website

2 – LITTLE ZOO CAFE

The first exotic pet cafe in Bangkok! Little Zoo Cafe is exactly what you’re imagining it to be – a cafe filled with animals where you can also have a meal or drink some coffee. The interior is filled with lots of animals – cats and dogs in the dining room that looks like a restaurant and other wild animals in the “animal interaction area” such as foxes, for example. Sounds cool to me and it’s definitely one of Bangkok’s coolest cafes – make sure you don’t miss it!

Address: 424/7-8 Siam Square Alley11, Rama I, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand

Website

3 – HAJIME ROBOT

While not technically a cafe, this restaurant is still a nice addition to your itinerary. This is actually a “Yakiniku restaurant” which means that you’ll be eating from a small barbecue that is placed right in the middle of the table. But, above all, this place is awesome because you won’t be served by a person… but by a samurai robot! All in all, I really think this robot-themed place is pretty much unique and it’s definitely on my list. If you’re lucky, you can also snap some Instagram videos with the robots doing a Lady Gaga dance, haha!

Website

4 – MOCKING TALES

Delicious coffee (including yam coffee!) and desserts, even more delicious cocktails in the evening and an incredible set-up where you can see fairytales coming to life. Sounds pretty good, right? Plus lots of photo opportunities!

Address: Thong Lo 4, Khlong Tan Nuea

Website

5 – VILLA DE BEAR

In case you’re imagining this is a bear paradise… well, you’re not far from the truth at all! This Instagram-worthy bear-inspired place serves really good food, drinks and some pretty nice dessert options as well. Oh, and their bear mascot is pretty fun too! I think this is one of the best cafes to visit in Bangkok with your little ones!

Address: 5, Ratchapruk Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170 Thailand

Website

6 – PATOM

In case you’re a fan of plants, organic things and simply a nice decor overall, Patom is a great choice for you! This cafe is, in fact, a huge greenhouse located inside a garden – can it get any better than this?

Address: 9/2, Soi Sukhumvit 49/6, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand

Website

TIP: Alternatively, you can also visit the Wood Cafe, which is smaller but equally nice (Address: 44, Soi Lat Phrao Wang Hin 48, Lat Phrao Wang Hin Road)

7 – MOOMIN CAFÉ

If you’re a fan of the Finnish cartoons called Moomin (or if your kids are!), this place will seem incredible to you. The entire cafe is made to look like a Moomin house and you can serve some delicious dishes there or play with Moomin dolls. Fun, right?

Address: 240 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand

Website

NOTE: Maybe you’ll read in some other articles on the web about Sanrio Hello Kitty House, which sounds absolutely marvellous. Unfortunately, that cafe is now permanently closed – which is such a shame because what can be better than a Hello Kitty paradise? Let’s hope they reopen something similar soon!

This was my complete guide to the cutest cafes in Bangkok that also have some cool themes – unicorns, cats, cartoon characters, flowers, gardens and everything else you can think of! I’ve also told you all about my experience visiting 3 of the best ones out there, together with some useful info.

So if you’ve always dreamed of having brunch in a fantasy-themed cafe like no other in the world, these options in Bangkok Thailand will surely blow your mind. Good local dishes, coffee and rainbow-coloured desserts served in amazing interior decor and tons of Instagram photo corners – you can expect all these and more during your visit!

In case you need more information that will help you plan your upcoming trip to Bangkok, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this cool destination. And here you’ll find all my posts about Thailand!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

3 Unmissable themed cafes in Bangkok Thailand

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Beautiful Bangkok: Top 10 Instagrammable places in Bangkok, Thailand

Looking for the ultimate list of Instagrammable places in Bangkok? You’re in the right place!

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is one of the most beautiful cities in Asia and one of the best Instagram-worthy spots in the world! This awesome destination has some iconic landmarks and photo spots such as beautiful temples, rooftop bars, parks, infinity pools, reclining Buddha statues and everything in-between. No wonder people from all around the world flock here for the amazing culture, architecture and gastronomy.

If you’re up for some unforgettable Bangkok photography in this ancient city, you’re in luck! Below I have compiled a list of the 10 best Bangkok Instagram spots, as well as an additional list with some other lesser-known photo spots to check out.

Let’s get to it!

Top 10 Bangkok Instagram spots

The list below contains some of the most famous temples in Bangkok, as well as some markets, museums and bars. The following places are an absolute must for everyone that will visit Bangkok for the very first time!

1 – Wat Pho Temple

Melissa walking around Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok Thailand

Most famous for its 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, Wat Pho Temple is one of the main tourist stops and a gorgeous Buddhist temple complex. The decorations are simply breathtaking and there are photo opportunities everywhere you look- think towering golden spires, Buddhist statues and intricate courtyards.

Entry cost: 200 Baht (6.40 US$)

Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon. Find it on Google Maps here.

2 – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

river with dozens of merchant boats at a floating market in bangkok

Visiting a floating market in Bangkok is a unique experience during which you will get an insight into the history of Bangkok back to when the city heavily relied on water transport. You can take boat tours, explore the different stalls and produce and even chit-chat and negotiate with the local vendors.

Address: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Damnoen Saduak District. Find it on Google Maps here.

Other than Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, some other nice floating markets:

Amphawa Floating Market
Taling Chan Floating Market

3 – Airplane Graveyard

Inside of a cockpit of an abandoned airplane at the airplane graveyard bangkok

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Airplane Graveyard is one of the coolest photo spots in Bangkok! As it’s further out of the city, it’s less visited than other photo spots – which, if you ask me, is an excellent advantage! Here, you’ll find 3 airplane bodies – two of them are quite small, but one of them belongs to a huge 747 that you can enter and explore. If you’re feeling creative, this location is a photographer’s paradise!

Address: Ramkhamhaeng Alley 103, Hua Mak, Bang Kapi District. Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: You can find more information and details about the aeroplane graveyard in my complete article about Bangkok – 5 Unmissable Tourist Places to Visit in Bangkok

4 – Wat Arun Temple

Wide angle photo with Melissa on the bottom stairs of Wat Arun

Looking up into the highest point of Wat Arun Bangkok

Get ready for some more temple recommendations, as these are simply some of the best Instagram-worthy spots in Bangkok! On the western riverside of Bangkok, Wat Arun is one of the most famous temples in Thailand by far. Also named the Temple of the Dawn, it is insanely pretty and one of the most Instagrammable places in Bangkok!

Wat Arun has four large spires surrounding a central prang that reaches 80m above the ground. Also, while you’re in the area (and you’ll surely be, as Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are all in the same “neighbourhood”, just across the river), make sure to check out the views of Wat Arun from the east side of Chao Phraya river at sunset. The moody silhouette with the orange sky as a backdrop is simply stunning!

Entry cost: 50 THB (1.60 US$)

Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai. Find it on Google Maps here.

5 – Maeklong Railway Market

A visit to a train market is definitely a must-do while in Bangkok, Thailand!

Maeklong Railway Market was built on the outskirts of Bangkok around the beginning of the 20th century. The market is located literally on top of the train track. Upon the sound of an inbound train, the stall owners quickly pack up their stalls and move aside, allowing the train to rumble past before they set up shop again.

Address: Mueang Samut Songkhram District, Samut Songkhram 75000. Find it on Google Maps here.

NOTE: I know, the idea of a railway market sounds really scary and it actually is a bit! But you shouldn’t worry about getting squashed, you’ll hear the train coming and the stalls packing up long before it arrives.

6 – The Grand Palace

Melissa walking down a pathway in the grand palace leading to a building

Top of a golden building at Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is not only one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Bangkok, but also, without a doubt, the most famous site in the country. This comes with both advantages and disadvantages – and if you want to find out why I don’t really advise you to go there, I recommend reading my complete guide to the Grand Palace here.

This tourist hotspot was, from the 18th to the 20th century, the official residence of the kings of Thailand and it is also home to the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), one of the most sacred Buddhist relics in the world.

Entry cost: 500 THB (16 US$)

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon. Find it on Google Maps here.

TIP: The Grand Palace is super crowded, so if you do decide to go, I advise you to get there very early in the morning and preferably on a weekday. The crowds can be intense. You have been warned!

7 – Wat Benchamabophit Temple

Wat Benchamabophit (also known as the Marble Temple) is one of Bangkok’s hidden gems. 99% of the tourists flock to the more popular temples such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, so Benchamabophit is always less crowded and you’re much more likely to have it all to yourself – how awesome is that?! This is such a bonus when taking photographs, as you can take your time finding angles and never need to worry about getting a clear shot.

Address: 5 Dusit, Dusit District, Bangkok 10300. Find it on Google Maps here.

8 – Erawan Museum

The Erawan Museum is undoubtedly one of the best Bangkok photo spots due to its amazing architecture. From its curved stairways to its amazing stained glass windows, your visit will literally be other-worldly and you’ll find amazing photography angles everywhere you look. Also, let’s not forget about the famous three-headed elephant located here!

Each of the floors is organised on the Hindu representation of the universe. The underworld on the ground floor, the earth on the second floor and heaven on the third floor – cool, right?

Entry cost: 400 THB (12.20 US$)

Address: 99 Bang Mueang Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District. Find it on Google Maps here.

9 – A sky bar

Did you know that Bangkok has one of the most beautiful rooftop bars in the world? And visiting one of them is your best shot to scope out some of Bangkok’s most stunning city views – trust me, nothing compares to the skyline seen from a sky bar, with a cocktail in your hand!

There are TONS of amazing rooftop bars in the city to explore and some great ones include:

Vertigo and Moon Bar
Sky Bar by Lebua
Octave Rooftop Bar
Vanilla Sky Bar – in case you’re looking for more than a rooftop bar, this one is also a nightclub

10 – Wat Samphran Dragon Temple

The Dragon Temple is seriously so cool! A gigantic dragon surrounds and protects the Wat Samphran Temple, one of the most gorgeous places in Bangkok – and still unknown enough to be less crowded than other famous attractions!

This creative architectural work is renowned all over social media for its obvious unique feature that is so well captured from the sky (drone pilots, this one’s for you!). At the top, close to the dragon’s mouth, you can find a Buddhist shrine.

Address: หมู่ที่ 7 92/8 Sam Phran, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom. Find it on Google Maps here.

FUN FACT: If you’re looking for the reason behind the mystical beast, you’re out of luck. It remains a mystery.

Some more Instagram-worthy spots in Bangkok, Thailand

In case this is not your first visit to Bangkok, you might’ve already been to ALL the well-known places I’m mentioning above. If that’s the case, worry not, as I have some additional Instagrammable places in Bangkok for you down below. This list is full of lesser-known spots and some new places to see in Bangkok:

Unicorn Cafe – I’m sold just by the name! The Unicorn Cafe is an explosion of colours and unicorn items and it’s hard not to find a perfect corner to photograph. There are actually 2 unicorn cafes in Bangkok right next to each other and both of them have some pretty good desserts too.
Chang Chui Plane Night Market – if you’re looking for a combination of an abandoned plane and a night market, this one’s for you – a place to try out traditional Thai food and see some art exhibits!
Wat Ratchanatdaram Temple / Loha Prasat – small but super beautiful temple, still pretty unknown among tourists. It has 37 gorgeous spires that go up to the rooftop and you can also climb to the top to take some cute photos!
Mahanakhon Skywalk – this glass skywalk is not for those afraid of heights for sure! It’s located at the top of the tallest tower in Bangkok and it offers an unbeatable birds-eye view of the city. Lots of photo corners everywhere you look!
Lumpini Park – if you’re looking for some nature and peace of mind, this huge green space is perfect for you. There’s a nice artificial lake there, as well as numerous walking paths and lots of photo opportunities!
Rot Fai Market – a gorgeous, huge open-air market with tons of delicious food, local goods and souvenirs.
Sunkist Basketball Court – in case you have access to a drone, this beautiful basketball court makes for some amazing photo opportunities, as it’s located right between two highways!
Sofitel Bangkok Hotel – if you’re looking for an Instagrammable hotel in Bangkok, this one’s for you! One of the best things about this accommodation is, probably, its gorgeous infinity pool that makes for some unforgettable Bangkok photo opportunities.
Pak Khlong Flower Market – tons of colourful flowers everywhere you look – what can be more wonderful than this?
Chinatown – this gorgeous neighbourhood in Bangkok awaits with tons of photo spots everywhere you look!

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Bangkok

Picture of canon camera on a deck in nature.

Bangkok provides amazing photo opportunities. If you want to make the best of them, make sure to pack your best camera and lenses. Here is what we have in our gear:

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Everyday lens: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens
Portrait lens: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Lens
GoPro camera: GoPro HERO8 Black
Tripod: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect
NV filter: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter
Camera bag: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack
Hard Drive: LaCie 4TB

This was my ultimate list of Bangkok scenic places that are absolutely perfect for a photoshoot while you’re in the capital city of Thailand! Just pick your favourite ones and add them to your list – you’ll find everything here from temples to bars, museums and some other lesser-known spots such as a basketball court, a unicorn-themed cafe, some markets and more!

With 20 places to choose from, rest assured that your trip to Bangkok will be unforgettable and you’ll end up with some pictures that will make all your Instagram friends jealous, haha!

In case you need more tips and information about your upcoming visit to Bangkok, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles on the topic. And here you’ll find all my posts about Thailand!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

10 Most instagrammable spots in Bangkok Thailand

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10 Best Cafes in Phuket Old Town, Thailand

Phuket is an amazingly hot destination in Thailand for all beach bums out there, but did you know there’s more to this holiday destination than this? Phuket Old Town completely contrasts the rest of the island by giving the opportunity to explore its colonial houses and local markets. You’ll find lots of entertainment, food and cafes in Phuket Old Town, where you can treat yourself to some amazing awakening-brews, sweet treats, and much more!

I know I told you about what to do in Phuket Old Town in this dedicated article – Phuket Old Town, Thailand – Quick Travel Guide – but today I want to tell you everything about the best coffee in Phuket!

You may already know I’m a sucker for cosy, Instagrammable cafes that serve a good cup of brewed goodness (or a cup of matcha or tea for me, please!), so I just couldn’t help myself not to make a top list for Phuket Old Town as well.

Are you ready to read all about the best cafes in Phuket Town?

3 Best cafes in Phuket Old Town – GATW approved!

All the coffee shops below tick all the important aspects for me: pretty aesthetics, good menu and excellent serving. These are my top 3 Phuket cafe choices, but below you can find an extra list of options in case you need it/have more time on your hands:

1 – Annytime Dessert and Tea Cafe

Annytime is such a stunningly good cafe in Phuket! With pink walls in a shade of blush, extravagant flower arrangements and prettily presented cakes and drinks to match, Annytime’s aesthetics are totally on point.

Not only have they set up a number of picture-perfect spots (both inside and outside) to get snap-happy, but their cakes and desserts are irresistibly indulgent for those with a sweet tooth. The menu includes the likes of triple chocolate pancakes, pink peach ice teas, liquid centred lava cakes and a wide range of bubble tea options. The menu is quite specific to deserts, but honestly, they are seriously good at what they serve up!

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

ADDRESS: เลขที่ 2/22 Dibuk Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000. Find it on Google Maps here.

FACEBOOK: Annytime Phuket

FOR THE GRAM: annytime_dessert_tea

2 – Gallery Cafe by Pinky

If you love food as much as you love your cup of coffee, this one’s definitely for you! Gallery Cafe is right in the centre of Phuket Old Town, at the end of the main Art Street. The café highlights both European and Thai dishes made by a Thai chef with experience working in the competitive culinary scene of London – how awesome is that?!

The menu is extensive and offers a ton of different options for breakfast and lunch, from smoothie bowls to burgers to roast Sunday dinners (huge servings, by the way!). I recommend the vegan cakes and the coffee – needless to say that both are pretty amazing.

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Closed on Mondays

ADDRESS: 19 Yaowarat Rd, ตำบล ตลาดใหญ่ Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000. Find it on Google Maps here.

FACEBOOK: Gallery Cafe By Pinky (Phuket Town)

FOR THE GRAM: gallerycafephuket

3 – The Tent

The Tent easily qualifies as Phuket’s comfiest café. This breakfast and brunch spot welcomes you with pillow seating inside tipi tents set up around low coffee tables. And I think that’s soooo cute! But if sitting in a tipi isn’t your thing, they also have normal tables to choose from.

It may be a novelty idea, but the decor is so cute and inviting and the menu is filled with great international choices. The smoothie bowls are super refreshing, with lots of toppings and they also serve a number of local Thai dishes and the worldwide favourite, avocado toast.

The staff were super lovely and the food was good, so I can confidently say that The Tent was by far my favourite Phuket town cafe!

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS:

Daily: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed on Wednesdays

ADDRESS: 16 Thepkrasatree Rd, ตำบล ตลาดใหญ่ Mueang, Phuket 83000. Find it on Google Maps here.

FACEBOOK: The Tent Phuket

FOR THE GRAM: @thetentphuket

BONUS: 7 Other notable cafes in Phuket Town

In case you have more time to explore and you’re in need of more amazing coffee in your cup, you can browse the list below which includes some other excellent choices for coffee shops in Phuket Town – plus some pretty stunning Instagrammable spots as well! In all honesty, I didn’t get to try them out, but I’ve only heard good things about the following places:

Feelsion Cafe – in case you’re a fan of vintage items, Instagrammable desserts and quirky decor, Feelsion Cafe (not Feelston) is for you! They have different rooms, large enough to fit plenty of people and some perky decorations such as skeletons, statues, lots of plants and more. It looks stunning, really!
Delico Decoration Coffee & Dessert – an excellent combo of good coffee and superb interior decor, Delico offers endless corners fit for your Instagram pictures. Gorgeous is a serious understatement.
Thailand #31 – one of the best things about this place is that they only use products and ingredients from local farmers – how awesome is that? Plus, the decor is also extremely nice!
Endless Summer Coffee Shop – if you fancy a place where you can both drink some coffee and shop for clothes and accessories as well!
Bookhemian – this cosy cafe-mini-bookshop combo is a perfect choice if you want to spend a couple of hours relaxing and reading. Yes, you can also buy the books or even catch a movie on the second floor!
Rush Coffee – cups of good brews and bags of roasted beans is what you can get here, as well as some freshly baked foods. Ah, and you’ll surely be pleased by the dark blue facade and the crazy scent of fresh beans. Some people even say that here you can find the best coffee in Phuket Old Town, but there’s only one way to find out, right?
Eleven Two & Co. – this one’s a true oasis of relaxation. They have a cosy, sunny backyard where you can unwind, delicious Asian-Western dishes to choose from and, of course, very good coffee.

This was my complete list of comfy, cute spots to drink your coffee in Phuket Old Town! In case you were searching for the best coffee shop in Phuket for your upcoming trip, I’m absolutely convinced you’ll find it in one of my lists above – I included 3 amazing cafes that I tested myself with a bonus list of 7 spots that I didn’t get to visit, but are pretty popular and have excellent reviews.

And in case you need more help with your upcoming trip to Phuket, I recommend clicking here to read all my posts about Phuket. And here you can find all my articles and stories about Thailand!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket Old Town?

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10 Incredible Cafes in Phuket Old Town Thailand

A caffeine lovers guide to Phuket Old Town

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13 Best Beaches in Phuket, Thailand + The Best Beach Resorts

Phuket is renowned for being one of the greatest beach destinations ever – not just in Thailand, but in the entire world! Phuket is known for its amazing white sands, beautiful palm trees, clear, glittering seas and lively towns, making it the tourist hot spot it has become today.

In case you’re planning a vacation in Phuket soon, you must be searching for the best beaches to spend your day getting that perfect tan, swimming, snorkelling or simply sipping from your cocktail. No worries, I got you! In this article, I’m taking you through 13 of my favourite beaches that Phuket has to offer. I wanted to limit the list to just 5 beaches at first, but I quickly realised there are SO many amazing strips of sand with perfect water in Phuket, that it would’ve been a shame to not share truly the best ones with you all.

Moreover, I’ve also given you my recommendations for the best Phuket resorts that have their own private beach (perfect for a honeymoon, for example) and the best spots in Phuket to watch the sunset. Are you ready?!

Disclaimer: I take no responsibility for any irrational flights spontaneously booked to Thailand after reading this post! 😉

Best beaches in Phuket Thailand by interest and type of traveller

Okay, before proceeding to my (rather) long list of beaches in Phuket, I want to help you decide on the best one for you. And it’s simple: it all depends on what you’re looking for! Sure, all 13 beaches below are simply gorgeous, but some are better for snorkelling, for example, while others are more laid-back or family friendly. In order to help you choose, I have created the customised list below:

Best beach in Phuket for couples: Nai Thon Beach or Mai Khao
Best beach in Phuket for families: Kamala Beach
Best beach in Phuket for swimming: Kata Beach Phuket
Best beach in Phuket for snorkelling: Ao Sane Beach or Ya Nui
Best beach in Phuket for nightlife and beach clubs: Patong Beach
The most popular beach in Phuket: Patong Beach
Best hidden beach in Phuket: Laem Singh

A couple of things to know before

Which side of Phuket has the best beaches?

You have two easy choices here: either the Southern or the West Coast. The East Coast is lush and full of forests, so it’s not really considered the beach destination. But the good thing about the South and West Coast is that most of the great beaches are located close to each other, so in case you want to tick more than a couple of spots off your list, you’ll be able to do so in Phuket.

In order to clearly visualise what I’m talking about, I recommend checking out the Phuket map below which indicates where each of the beaches I’ll be talking about is located:

Where can you swim in Phuket?

You might think that all beaches in Phuket are perfect for swimming. Well, that’s not exactly accurate. Some beaches can become dangerous for swimming, especially during low season, because of rough currents or jellyfish – Banana Beach is just an example and sometimes even Karon Beach. Other than this, most of the beaches I’ll be mentioning below are safe to swim in. Remember that it all depends on the weather and the time of the year you decide to visit, so I recommend checking the updated info for each of the beaches you want to visit beforehand.

13 Best Beaches in Phuket, Thailand

Now enough with the boring information, let’s find out about the best beaches in Phuket!

1 – Kata Beach (Kata Noi & Kata Yai)

Although most articles on the web are talking about Kata and Kata Noi Beach as two different spots, I’ll be including them in one big recommendation. Why? Because Kata Beach (also known as Kata Yai) and Kata Noi are extremely close to each other and very similar too, so whichever one you choose, you’ll be good. Just note that Kata Noi Beach is a bit less crowded and a bit harder to reach.

Kata Beach is situated nearby the touristic towns of Patong and Karon. With a 1.5 km-long stretch of sand, this beach has all the facilities and activities you’d find in Patong, but with the benefit of also having a bit fewer tourists (with an emphasis on ‘a bit’ – it’s still super popular!). This is a great place to come and soak up the sun, it’s excellent for swimming and it’s a great beach for families as well. There are also multiple shops and eateries here, as well as some cool bars. Kata Beach always seems to be busy, but never overcrowded!

BEST HOTEL ON KATA BEACH: Kata Rocks on Kata and The Shore at Katathani for Kata Noi Beach
BEST RESTAURANT ON KATA BEACH: The Boathouse Restaurant

2 – Freedom Beach

Soft white sand, clear waters and a quiet atmosphere – Freedom Beach is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket! But there’s one thing to note, though… When it comes to Freedom Beach, part of the fun comes down to the difficulty of getting there! You only have two options: hiking down from the top of the hill or getting there by boat.

From the closest road, there is a 15-20 min steep downhill hike to access this paradisiac strip of sand. Personally, I loved it; a little bit of adventure always adds to the experience! But if you aren’t the active type I need to warn you; this hike will make you weak at the knees (literally, not just from the view!) and leave you cursing your flip flops and wishing for trainers. Is it worth it, though? Definitely yes!
Really hate the thought of that hike? You can also get to Freedom Beach via long tail boats from Patong Town, Kata, Karon or Kamala Beach, but only during the high season (December to June). We hiked there and them jumped on a boat back to town, which was also a lot of fun!

When you finally arrive, you’ll find that this so-called ‘hidden beach’ is Phuket’s worst kept secret. Long-tail boats are lined up near the shore, ready to ferry visitors back to the town of Patong. Small stalls are set up under the shade of palm trees selling coconuts, soft drinks and water. Even though the beach isn’t overcrowded, it also isn’t empty (well, at least there are no loud jet skis…). The secret of this pretty little bay is out and it’s clear as to why. With incredibly soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, Freedom Beach may no longer be hidden, but it’s definitely still a gem!

BEST HOTEL ON FREEDOM BEACH: There is no overnight accommodation directly on the beach. The closest hotel is Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong, less than 1 km away.
BEST RESTAURANT ON FREEDOM BEACH: There’s a small restaurant serving Thai food on the northern end, but it’s a gamble on whether it’s open or closed depending on season/year.

3 – Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the longest and one of the most popular Phuket beaches! Because of this, the entire 2.5 km long stretch of white sand is very crowded and noisy most of the time, but it’s still an excellent place to enjoy the bustling nightlife of the West coast. Plus, it’s right near Patong Town where you’ll find countless restaurants, shops, massage parlours and hotels, so you’ll have everything you need nearby. And the beach is full of water sports as well!

BEST HOTEL ON PATONG BEACH: There are tons of accommodations to choose from in Patong Town, but only a handful of them are actually on the beach. Out of them all, I recommend Amari Phuket.
BEST RESTAURANT ON PATONG BEACH: Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant

4 – Karon Beach

Karon is the second biggest beach strip in Phuket and among the most popular tourist spots! And the reason is pretty clear: fine sand, incredible blue waters and lots of activities to be done here: shopping, dining and a little bit of clubbing as well. During the high season, of course. Karon Beach is lined with beautiful trees for some well-deserved shade and it even has volleyball nets and more than enough restaurant options to choose from. The water is perfect for swimming in the high season, but it can get dangerous in the low season because of strong currents, so beware!

BEST HOTEL ON KARON BEACH: Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort
BEST RESTAURANT ON KARON BEACH: Eat. Bar and Grill

5 – Nai Harn Beach

Situated at the southern end of Phuket is the laid-back Nai Harn Beach. And trust me, this one’s not like Patong or Kata. Nai Harn is more popular with locals and expats than tourists, but it still makes my list due to its pure white sand coupled with its crystal-clear waters.

Nai Harn is generally pretty chilled and doesn’t get overly busy, so you can enjoy it and its surroundings at your leisure – which is a great plus considering you’re in one of the most popular beach destinations in the world! This is probably why Nai Harn is considered to be the best beach on Phuket by so many. Although… yes, it does get busier with tourists from December to April.

BEST HOTEL ON NAI HARN BEACH: The Nai Harn
BEST RESTAURANT ON NAI HARN BEACH: Rock Salt

6 – Surin Beach

Surin Beach was once one of the top spots for renting lounges, sipping drinks in the numerous bars, eating and, of course, shopping from the countless vendor stalls. It was vivid, crowded and there was always something happening around. Not anymore! Nowadays, Surin is a natural beach, with all the amenities GONE. Everything changed after a dispute with the government, which made most shops and restaurants get demolished in no time.

But! This makes it even better, trust me. Maybe one of the most unique Phuket beaches, if you ask me. Surin Beach is now wild and pristine, lined with beautiful trees and some amazing resorts to choose from. You won’t go there for entertainment anymore, but for relaxation and admiring raw nature. Which is totally worth it!

BEST HOTEL ON SURIN BEACH: The Surin Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON SURIN BEACH: Most beachfront eateries are now completely gone, but there’s still a good one left – Patcharin Seafood. You can also find food vendors just behind the line of trees if you’re craving some cheap Thai food.

7 – Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach (also written Bangtao) is located right between Patong and the airport and it’s a gorgeous, long strip of white sand (one of the longest, actually). There wasn’t much going on around here in the past, but Bang Tao became a vivid, laid-back place and one of the top beaches in Phuket Island over recent years. You’ll find anything you need here, from cool beach clubs to world-class restaurants and some unforgettable hotels as well. Although it may not be as beautiful as Surin Beach, it’s full of good amenities and activities (including a water park!) and, best of all, it’s not that crowded. Cha-ching!

BEST HOTEL ON BANG TAO BEACH: SAii Laguna Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON BANG TAO BEACH: There are numerous small, traditional food stalls on the beach serving Thai food while you’re seated on a bamboo chair. For a more elegant experience, I recommend Palm Seaside Restaurant.

8 – Ya Nui Beach

Ya Nui Beach (nearby Nai Harn Beach) is a tiny, charming bay tucked into a cove in the south of Phuket. At first, it looks like the picture-perfect image of a secret beach, but don’t be under any illusions! Word is out and this place can get very busy at times. Don’t let that put you off though. Golden sands, crystal clear blue waters, thatch-roofed restaurants serving local Thai food; just a few of the reasons you should add it to your list.

Although small, Ya Nui is just perfect for diving and snorkelling!

BEST HOTEL ON YA NUI BEACH: There are no hotels directly on the beach; I recommend Ya Nui Resort which offers a free shuttle to Ya Nui Beach.
BEST RESTAURANT ON YA NUI BEACH: One More Restaurant

9 – Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach, located right between Patong and Surin, is a charming, laid-back option if you want to stay away from the tourist crowds. You won’t find any water sport options or big parties here, making Kamala the perfect choice for a relaxed holiday. It’s also one of the cleanest Phuket beaches! After a full day of relaxing in a hammock, you can go to Kamala Town nearby where you’ll find cute cafes and some very good restaurants. No worries, there are some amazing beachfront eateries and the sunset here is pretty incredible!

BEST HOTEL ON KAMALA BEACH: Twinpalms MontAzure
BEST RESTAURANT ON KALAMA BEACH: Coconut Garden or Café del Mar Beach Club

10 – Paradise Beach

“Paradise Beach”… I guess the name says it all, right? And yes, I can confirm – the sand is golden and soft, the waters are pretty much perfect and the tall palm trees make the entire setting look heavenly! Paradise Beach, located only 10 minutes from Patong, is a rather small and remote cove (150m long) and was once a secret beach. Now, the beach has transformed into a luxurious beach club called Paradise Beach Club, a traveller’s dream. Other than this, the beach is also perfect for some snorkelling as well, as there’s a gorgeous coral reef only 100m offshore.

Paradise Beach Club offers plenty of options for bars and restaurants and you can rent beach chairs as well. And if you’re interested in the Koh-Phangan-type of parties… search no more, the full moon party organised here is for you!

NOTE: Just remember that you need to pay an entrance fee of 200 baht (6.40 US$) to access the beach and all its facilities and that the beach is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.

BEST HOTEL ON PARADISE BEACH: There are no hotels on the beach except for Paradise Beach Club’s only accommodation, which is a hostel – Paradise Beach Backpackers. Alternatively, I recommend staying at a hotel nearby. Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa is fabulous and it’s only 1 km away.
BEST RESTAURANT ON PARADISE BEACH: There are plenty of good restaurants at Paradise Beach Club to choose from.

11 – Nai Thon Beach

Nai Thon Beach is located only 10 minutes from the airport and I think it’s one of the most underrated beaches on the entire island! It’s beautiful, it’s pristine and it’s the very definition of relaxation. There aren’t a lot of things to do on the beach except swimming and sunbathing, but a short walk away you’ll find Nai Thon village with local eateries and shops. You’ll also find the Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

In short, let’s enjoy the peace of Nai Thon Beach while we can, my friends!

BEST HOTEL ON NAI THON BEACH: Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON NAI THON BEACH: Naithon Beach Club

12 – Laem Singh Beach

Gorgeous sandy beach with lush green trees and a perfect place for relaxation. The fact that you’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself is one of the best things about Laem Singh Beach!

Laem Singh was, sadly, closed in April 2017 after being one of the most loved Phuket beaches ever. It is said that the owner decided to ban everyone from entering his beach. The beach remained closed until the end of 2017 when it was sold to a new owner. But people found a way to fix the situation – since 2018 you can get to Laem Singh Beach by sea if you take the small orange boat from Surin Beach (100 baht/person). So, luckily for us travellers, the beach is now accessible again!

BEST HOTEL ON LAEM SINGH BEACH: Surin Beach Villa
BEST RESTAURANT ON LAEM SINGH BEACH: Although there aren’t many amenities (read: at all) on this beach, you can find one cute restaurant on the rocks – it looks like a terrace made of wood with red umbrellas and the food is really nice!

13 – Mai Khao Beach

Mai Khao Beach is one of the longest in Phuket and, surprisingly enough, it’s still very pristine and laid-back… almost untouched! The water is calm and the beach is much emptier than many of the other popular beaches further south on the island – there aren’t even beach chairs and umbrellas yet, but you can find a couple of newly built hotels instead.

By the way, Mai Khao Beach stretches right past the airport and is known for its popular photo-op location where you can stand just in front of the runway as the planes land and take off right over your head. Cool, right?

TOP PHOTO TIP: Make sure you check the flight schedules to see when planes are set to take off / land. This will save you some time and stop you from waiting around for ages in the sun.

BEST HOTEL ON MAI KHAO BEACH: Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
BEST RESTAURANT ON MAI KHAO BEACH: Kin Dee Restaurant. There are also around 10 bamboo-style eateries serving Thai food on the northern end of the beach.

Other notable beaches in Phuket worth mentioning

It’s not that the beaches below are not worth it, but my list above was already getting pretty long so I had to make some kind of differentiation! Here are some extra beautiful beaches for you to check out:

Ao Sane – Nearby Nai Harn Beach and a TOP spot for snorkelling! For once, this is actually a secret beach in Phuket, without any jet skis or noisy tourists.
Pansea – North of Surin Beach, this hidden gem can be reached by boat from Surin or Bang Tao. Alternatively, you can reach it by walking if you take the steep path that separates Surin from Pansea.
Nai Yang – Right near Mai Khao Beach and Sirinath National Park. There are a couple of luxury resorts here, as well as some restaurants, but aside from these, the beach is still untouched.
Rawai – not really your go-to place for swimming, but rather for snapping some pictures and getting a gorgeous view of the other beaches and nearby islands. It’s also the best spot for island hopping to the best beaches near Phuket such as Banana Beach (see the next section)
Panwa / Khao Kat Beach – this is one of the few beaches on the East coast worth mentioning. Although you can’t swim here, you can still visit it if you want to discover a pristine, wild beach and a few luxury villas as well!

Best beaches NEAR Phuket (day trip beaches)

I know you might be wondering why I didn’t mention the famous Banana Beach here?! Well, there’s a simple reason behind it: because Banana Beach is not actually in Phuket, but rather close by. So I included it on my list of beautiful beaches that are not TECHNICALLY in Phuket:

Banana Beach – This is a superb hidden gem that can be reached by a long-tail boat from Rawai Beach. Once there, you can snorkel, kayak and even do some parasailing!
Railay Beach – This beach in Krabi Province is simply superb with limestone cliffs and it’s an ideal spot for rock climbers.
Phra Nang Cave Beach – This one’s near Railay Beach and it hosts an AWESOME cave and calm waters, perfect for swimming and climbing as well.

BONUS #1: 10 Best Phuket resorts with private beach

I’ll keep this bonus section short and sweet with some of the best beach resorts in Phuket that offer an excellent service and that have their own private beach reserved for their customers only:

BONUS #2: Best sunset spots in Phuket

If you’re dreaming of admiring the sunset from a perfect location in Phuket, the list below includes the best bars and places to do so! And trust me, although it may sound a bit boring, seeing the sunset in Phuket is something truly special and unforgettable! Do you have your pens ready? Here goes:

Promthep Cape – this is the southernmost point of Phuket and definitely THE most popular place to watch the sunset!
Baba Nest – spectacular 360 bar belonging to Sri Panwa Resort. You cannot enter without a reservation, so make sure you make one several days in advance;
The Boathouse Phuket – beautiful spot where you can admire the sunset while you’re sipping on a signature cocktail;
Big Buddha – 45m tall Buddha statue with incredible views of Kata and Karon beaches drenched in the sunset light;
Kata Rocks – gorgeous hotel on Kata. Seeing the sunset from their infinity pool is an amazing experience;
After Beach Sunset Bar – nice bar with accessible prices and Thai dishes;
360 Degrees Restaurant – how about some fancy cocktails and tapas while watching the sun setting over the Andaman Sea?
Heaven Restaurant & Bar – the best out of the 3 hillside sunset spots in Kata Noi;
Little Tiger – near Marriott Resort on Patong Beach, this is kind of a hidden gem that also serves some yummy dishes.

This was my COMPLETE list of the best beaches in Phuket for all types of travellers! Regardless if you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway on the island or a family looking for calm waters where the little ones can splash around, rest assured that you’ll find something in my list above. Plus, I have also given you my hand-picked recommendations for the best beach resorts and the best sunset bars in all of Phuket. What more can you wish for

Excited to read more about the gorgeous island of Phuket? Click here to find all my articles about this unique island destination in Thailand.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket, Thailand?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour around Phuket? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

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Phuket Old Town, Thailand – Quick Travel Guide

The region of Phuket in Thailand is one of the most famous destinations in the world, with over 3 million tourists visiting each year! In case you’re planning a visit here and you want to enjoy more than just the beaches, then this Phuket Old Town guide is here to help!

In the following post, I will tell you everything you need to know about the best attractions, excellent hotels, where to eat – and more!

All about Phuket Town

While most travellers are aiming for those superb beaches and white sand, which are oh-so-Thailand, I’d dare to say that Phuket Old Town is a hidden gem. Yes, it’s true, the southern islands of Phuket provide some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and a party scene that people literally fly across the world to experience. However, Phuket Old Town is slightly different to that – it’s basically the cultural centre of Phuket, with a focus on art and architecture. And let’s not forget about those pretty colourful houses!

By the way, here’s a Phuket Old Town map, so you can better understand its location on the island:

But why should you add it to your itinerary, though?

The answer is simple: easy island access! Phuket is a big island and it can be hard to know which area is the best place to stay. If you’re planning on doing a lot of day trips across to the paradise islands off the east coast, staying in Phuket Old Town is a no-brainer. Located 10 minutes by car from the main port, staying in Phuket Old Town can save you up to an hour of driving time just to reach the port.

This was a major deciding factor for us, as we didn’t want to spend so much time travelling and also, taxis in Phuket are expensive! You can find operators in Phuket Old Town providing both private and tour group island expeditions to Koh Phi Phi or James Bond Island, along with other islands.

Plus, it’s a great place if you want to experience a dose of Thailand’s history and culture – thigs you (unfortunately) won’t get to experience while you’re on the beach, with a cocktail in your hand.

Phuket Old Town – 6 Things to do

This place MAY be small, but it’s full of wonderful things to explore! Scroll down to find my recommended list of Phuket attractions you shouldn’t miss while you’re there. And the best part is that, if you only have a short time in this part of Thailand, you can easily squeeze all these in one day:

1 – Wander around on Soi Romanee Street

Melissa in Phuket Old Town wearing a pink dress in front of a pink house

Let’s start our adventure by taking a relaxing walk, shall we? Soi Romanee (or Soi Romance) is the oldest street in Phuket Old Town and one of the prettiest spots for a walk and some pictures. Soi Romanee Street is famed for its colourful Sino-Portuguese houses, now home to restaurants, shops and cafes. Tourists come to marvel at the pretty pastel colours of the architecture, which date back to the early 1900s. There are also some beautiful murals to be found here and there along the streets of the Old Town.

Other notable streets to take a walk on are Thalang Road and Phangnga Road. No worries, Phuket Old Town is quite small, so you CAN be done walking around it in about an hour – it would be hard to miss all those beautiful buildings, trust me.

FUN FACT: The word “Romanee” means “adorable” or “beautiful” in Thai, which perfectly describes this street! But there’s another explanation for this – in the old times, this street used to be the city’s red-light district, so the word used to describe the pretty ladies found here.

I mentioned before that Phuket Old Town has a rich history and heritage – and this can be seen everywhere you look. But here are some great places to explore if you want to properly learn about the island’s history:

Chinapracha House – a beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese house from 1903. The ceramic floor is simply superb! Entrance fee is 150 Baht (5 US$);
Thai Hua Museum – a nice Colonial-style museum where you can find out more about the Thai-Chinese mix of heritages to be found in Phuket. Entrance fee is 200 Baht (6.60 US$);
Ruamsahary Printing House – it is said to be the oldest printing house in Phuket and the best place to find all about this craftsmanship;
Thavorn Museum – located in the same place as Thavorn Hotel, this one has a rather odd (you’ve been warned!) showcase of local objects such as super old typewriters, ironing stations, decorations and more. Entrance fee is 30 Baht (1 US$);

3 – Admire some temples and shrines

Phuket Old Town has some wonderful shrines and temples as well, as religion has immense importance here as well as in the rest of Thailand. Here are some notable religious sites to explore while you’re around:

Shrine of The Serene Light – beautiful, colourful shrine and probably one of the most popular ones in the city. No entrance fee;
Wat Mongkol Nimit – a superb gold-roofed temple. Make sure you visit its garden as well. Entrance is free;
Jui Tui Shrine – another beautiful, small shrine, located only 10 minutes away by foot from the centre;

4 – Go shopping in one of the numerous markets

Jewellery stall with hundreds of products

Shopping for trinkets and indulging in street food is probably one of the best things to do in Old Phuket Town, that’s for sure. Phuket Old Town is an amazing place to buy locally crafted jewellery, ceramics and even books – especially on the main road, but not only. There are many options to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for:

Phuket Town Central Market – you can find everything here, from colourful clothes to fresh street food;
Phuket Town Night Market / Sunday Walking Street Market – every Sunday, Thalang Road in the centre of Phuket Old Town becomes completely pedestrianised as the Phuket Old Town Night Market is set up from 4 to 10 PM. Here you will find amazing street food options, local produce, live music entertainment and small souvenir stalls. My advice is to come here for the food! We tried a couple of dishes across a few different stalls and loved each and every one of them.
Amulet Market – located on Ratsada Road, this one is a small stretch of stalls selling blessed trinkets, Buddhist figures and amulets. The amulets are blessed by monks and are said to bring the owner certain attributes that they may be searching for – whether it be protection, good fortune, love or health. Even if this isn’t something you believe in, it’s such an interesting cultural experience! The stall owners that I met happily shared their knowledge and beliefs, always asking questions to help the customer find the amulet that best fit their needs;
Indy Market – a colourful, nice market open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. There are even live performances here from time to time!
The Oasis Thalang (formerly Vanich Walking Street) – an indoor passageway where you can buy food, clothes and more. The walls are all covered in street art, so it’s a pretty sight regardless if you want to buy something or not!
China Inn – this place is also a restaurant (with amazing pork, actually, so I’m recommending it down below in the “restaurants” section!) but also a shop that sells vintage furniture;
Southwind Books – if you’re looking for some second-hand books.

5 – Relax in one of the cool cafes

Wondering what to do in Phuket Old Town on a rainy day? I got you! Phuket Old Town has a growing coffee culture – and I’m all for it! Believe it or not, you’ll find some of the cutest cafes and brunch spots in this part of the island. Sipping a coffee in a cafe is a great way to start your day, or you can even get some work done or catch up on your social media, as all cafes here have 5G Wi-Fi connection!

The tricky part? Choosing which ones to visit!

RELATED READ: No worries, you can read about my 3 favourites cafes in the city here: Phuket: 3 Best Cafés in Phuket Old Town.

6 – See the city from above from Khao Rang Hill

If you’ll only visit one viewpoint during your Thailand trip, let it be this one! Khao Rang Hill offers an amazing view over the entire Phuket Town from the viewing platform. I recommend going there at sunset for the most incredible pictures! And, as a bonus, you can also have dinner with a view here in one of the 3 on-site restaurants. If you decide to walk, it will take you less than one hour to reach the viewing platform on top from the centre of the city. You can also get there by car.

Best Old Phuket Town tours

In case you want to visit (almost) everything in my guide with a guide, I definitely recommend joining an Old Town Phuket tour. There are quite some options available out there, but here I collected some hand-picked recommendations:

Find more Phuket tours

Best tours to the islands

Koh Phi Phi island during a beautiful sunset

If you’re in the mood to visit some islands as well while you’re here (and you should!), here are my recommended tours:

Where to stay in Phuket Old Town

WOO Gallery & Boutique hotel Phuket Old Town

In case you’re wondering where to stay in the heart of this wonderful little town, I got you! I have selected some excellent accommodation options for you and grouped them by budget for your convenience:

LUXURY HOTEL: WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel

MID-RANGE: The Besavana Phuket

BUDGET: Memory at On On Hotel – let me tell you some things about this rather famous Phuket Old Town hotel, may I? This accommodation became popular ever since it appeared in the opening of The Beach movie (Leonardo DiCaprio fans will know about this!). It’s not bursting with luxury; in fact, it’s a very good place to stay if you’re looking for an affordable hotel. Plus, it’s the oldest hotel in town, dating from 1929!

HOSTEL: Shunli Hotel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Snoozy

FInd a place in Phuket Old Town

Best Phuket Old Town restaurants

Of course, no visit to Phuket Old Town is complete without indulging in some authentic Thai food and desserts, am I right? And, luckily for us travellers, this place in the world is not short on amazing eateries. Here are some of the best ones I can recommend:

Blue Elephant – This amazing restaurant is located at Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion and it’s a great place to try some (quite Royal!) Thai cuisine. I recommend the set menu for lunch. If you have some time on your hands and a desire to learn how to make traditional Thai dishes, I recommend booking a cooking class there as well. You can secure your spot online here.
Boonrat Dim Sum – some dim sum for breakfast? I’m in!
Tu Kab Khao Restaurant – go there for the deep-fried fish with turmeric!
Tunk-Ka Cafe – if you want to enjoy some Thai food with a view over the city;
China Inn – braised pork and some vintage furniture, anyone?
One Chun – Michelin-awarded place – excellent for crab dishes and traditional Thai dishes in general that will make you fall in love;
Keng-Tin – an 80-years-old sweet shop with lots of Thai delicacies such as pastries and cookies;
Torry’s Ice Cream – in case you want to end the day with some avocado ice cream;

This was my complete guide on Phuket Old Town and all its cultural and historical gems! In this article, I have told you everything you need to know about this often-times overlooked gem of Thailand – such as the 6 best things to do, which markets to visit, which tours to take, where to stay, where to eat and everything in-between!

In case you’re planning to visit more of Thailand, I recommend clicking here to read all about my adventures in this amazing Asian country!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

Pin image for Phuket Old Town Ultimate Guide

A Complete Guide to Visiting Phuket Old Town Thailand

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Where to Stay in Phuket – 7 Best Areas & Hotels

Are you travelling to Phuket soon? If the answer is yes, then get ready for some world-class relaxation and unforgettable days of laying on the beach! In case you’re wondering where to stay in Phuket, Thailand, this complete guide is here to help you. I have selected the 7 best areas to stay in Phuket, together with my hand-picked hotel recommendations for each. Scroll down to find everything you need to know!

Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Asia, with over 9 million visitors flying in each year, and it’s easy to see why! This tropical Thai island offers a tranquil reprieve from the hustle and bustle of busy Bangkok and it’s famous for its clear blue waters, paradisiac settings and luxury accommodations.

I mean, who doesn’t want relaxing island vibes, great restaurants and stunning weather that any beach lover would dream of? Find my list of the best places to stay in Phuket Town (spoiler alert: expect MANY beaches!), along with my top picks for hotels in each location!

Best of Phuket – Where to stay for first timers

Map of Phuket in Thailand with the best areas to stay marked

Before jumping right into it, here’s a short round-up of my selection of areas in Phuket, so you can easily choose the best one for you:

Karon Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for the first time
Patong Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for nightlife
Mai Khao Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for relaxation
Phuket Town – Where to stay in Phuket for culture and sightseeing
Bangtao Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for luxury
Kamala Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for families
Kata Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for water sports

OTHER GOOD BEACHES IN PHUKET, NOT COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE:

Okay, now let’s dive (hehe!) right into it and find more details about the 7 best areas to stay in Phuket, as well as the best accommodation options for each (expect lots of beach resort options!), broken down by budget:

Karon Beach

With one of the longest beaches on the island, you just can’t go wrong with 5 kilometres of pristine white sand! Karon is perfect if you’re looking for a beach holiday, as the area offers lots of water activities like kayaking, water skiing, banana boat rides, wakeboarding, windsurfing, jet skiing and parasailing.

Karon is much quieter than its crazy, party town neighbour, Patong – but you’ll still find that there is a lot to do in the Karon area, with many restaurants and bars. I personally prefer Karon to Patong (below in this list), as I like to get away from all the madness and stay somewhere a bit more chill, with plenty of beach resort options. Plus, it’s only a short ride to Patong’s party scene – so why not enjoy the best of both worlds?

Where to stay in Karon Beach

MY TOP PICK: Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort – If you want to be right on the beachfront of Karon, with a private secluded, quiet beach at your disposal, this is your choice!

Beachside Pool surrounded by palm trees at Le Meridien in Phuket

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Karon Beach

Patong Beach

When speaking of Phuket, Patong is undeniably THE most popular spot for tourists around! It’s the best place to find hundreds of shops, restaurants, bars and the craziest nightlife on the island. So, if you like to be in the centre of the party, this is the perfect place for you to stay in Phuket!

Listen to me when I say that Patong is NOT the location you are looking for if you’re hoping for a relaxing holiday. Patong is known for its wild side. Think neon lights, blaring music, clubs advertising some weird, kinky ping-pong ball show (don’t even ask), street stalls selling spiders and scorpions to eat, ladyboy cabaret shows, beach clubs and Muay Thai boxing competitions. What I am trying to say is, there is a lot going on in Patong! It’s loud and lively and a complete shock to the senses – but if you’re ready to be immersed into the madness, Patong is the rabbit hole you’ve been looking for!

Where to stay in Patong Beach

MY TOP PICK: Amari Phuket – This 5-star resort in Patong is a superb place to stay if you want to relax and enjoy not one, but two outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, a wonderful spa and free shuttle to Kata Beach. Why choose when you can relax all over Phuket, am I right?

Hangout area with a view to the ocean at a room in Amari Phuket

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

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ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Patong

Mai Khao Beach

If you want some peace and quiet during your trip, the resort heaven of Mai Khao beach is THE place to be! This beach is considered to be the longest beach in Phuket and it’s home to a lot of the island’s nature parks and luxury accommodations.

Tourists don’t tend to bother visiting Mai Khao unless they are staying at one of the resorts in the area, as it is so much further north than the other tourist places on the island. This spot is also popular for plane watching because it sits at the tip of Phuket Airport’s runway. You’ll catch people standing at the edge of the runway, waiting for planes to land to feel a rush and get a close-up snap with the belly of a plane.

Where to stay in Mai Khao Beach

MY TOP PICK: SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort – This superb 5-star resort boasts a lush garden, a beach club, two beachfront pools (how awesome is that?!), gorgeous rooms and a resort spa as well. Just picture a vacation during which you sip on cocktails on the beach and then you relax in one of the beachfront massage terraces.

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Mai Khao Beach

Phuket Old Town

Melissa crossing the street with an old peranakan house in Phuket Thailand

If you want to explore a town filled with colonial heritage and culture, then Phuket Town is an excellent area to stay for you! This part of Phuket may not be directly on the beach, but it’s filled with many great spots and you’ll find that its location is a great base if you are hoping to explore the smaller islands off the east coast. Old Phuket Town itself is very pretty to visit! It feels like a colonial Portuguese village, with small, colourful shops, cute coffee spots and traditional Thai restaurants hidden within its colourful streets.

TIP: Koh Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Phang Nga Bay are the most popular island day trips that you can take from Phuket Town. Personally, I would recommend checking out the smaller boat trips to some of the more secluded islands and enjoy them all for yourself. Either way, Phuket Old Town is the perfect base for daily island trips as it is situated close to the harbour!

Where to stay in Old Town Phuket

MY TOP PICK: Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel – This is one of the best places in Phuket Town for travellers who want to do some sightseeing rather than just lay on the beach all day! This colonial accommodation has beautiful rooms, free Wi-Fi and it also offers an airport shuttle. Plus, Patong Beach is only 20 minutes away by shuttle!

Hotel Room at Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

Book a place in Old Phuket Town

Bangtao Beach

Sure, Phuket by itself is a luxurious destination full of 5-star resorts and hotels, but Bangtao Beach (also spelt Bang Tao Beach) is the ultimate area for complete splurging! Because Bangtao Beach is a lesser-known part of Phuket, compared to Patong, for example, you’ll find a lot more peace and quiet here and a laid-back atmosphere. You can also prepare your heart for a long strip of white sand beach, high-end villas with swimming pool and sea views, and crystal clear waters.

This is one of those great places to stay if you’re not planning on exploring too much, but you’d rather spend your days lazing at a luxurious resort, in complete relaxation.

Where to stay in Bangtao Beach

MY TOP PICK: Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort – This gorgeous beach resort in Phuket is one of your best options if you want to stay in Bang Tao Beach. The accommodation has an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness centre and plenty of dining options. The best part is that you’ll only be 20 minutes away from Patong and 25 from Phuket Town!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Bang Tao Beach

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach on the West Coast is the place to go for lots of family-friendly hotels and resorts (and some peace and quiet). In case you want to party as well, no worries, as you’ll only be 20 minutes away by car (or tuk-tuk) from Patong Beach, the clubbing heart of Phuket.

There are also plenty of places to eat and grab a cocktail around the area, within walking distance from the beach, so you can rest assured that you won’t get bored while in Kamala!

Where to stay in Kamala Beach

MY TOP PICK: Keemala – Now this is one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for a special experience! Unlike other beach resorts in Phuket, this accommodation offers clay cottages surrounded by nature in the forest, each of them with its own private pool. In short, this 5-star hotel is stunning, with gorgeous views, free Wi-Fi and more. Recommended for an unforgettable vacation in Phuket!

Jungle villas with private pool at Keemala Hotel

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Kamala Beach

Kata Beach

Speaking of beautiful beaches in Phuket… here’s another good option for you! Karon and Kata are equally awesome parts of Phuket, so it may be hard to choose! I feel like if you want to visit Phuket for water sports and adventure, either one will be a good option and you’ll be fully satisfied! Kata Beach, divided into Kata Noi and Kata Yai) is located right next to Karon. It’s a bit smaller, a bit quieter, but still offers a lot of things to do!

The night scene here isn’t very lively, so you can expect some serenity and lots of relaxation during your stay.

Where to stay in Kata Beach

MY TOP PICK: The Shore At Katathan i – If you’re looking for some good mood, good food and complete relaxation, here’s your place in Phuket! This 5-star adults-only resort is right on the beachfront and you can choose from villas with private pools, sea views and more. They also teach yoga lessons and aqua aerobics on-site!

Private pool in a villa at The Shore At Katathani

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Kata Beach

Okay, that’s me done! Here’s my complete guide on Phuket accommodations! In this post, I have discussed the best areas for all types of travellers and I have also given you my hand-picked recommendations for splurgin’ resorts, mid-range hotels and budget ones as well.

Regardless if you’re going to choose the vibrant Patong Beach, fun Karon, family-friendly Kamala or culture-rich Phuket Town, I’m sure you’ll have a great time on your travels!

If you want to read more about the best things to do in Thailand and my adventures in this wonderful country, I recommend heading over to this section here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in Phuket? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Where to Stay in Bangkok – 6 Best Areas and Hotels

In case you’re planning a trip to this part of the world soon, you might be wondering where to stay in Bangkok, correct? Correct! And in order to offer you a complete answer, I have put together this complete guide for the best neighbourhoods and hand-picked hotels in the city. Scroll down to find the best place to stay in Bangkok according to your budget and preferences!

I’m just going to say it… it is easy to get overwhelmed — and lost — in Bangkok! The capital city of Thailand is huge, spread out and with a lot to offer. From beautiful temples to huge shopping centres, 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels, street markets to local restaurants, Bangkok is the best kind of busy as it makes you want to come back for more!

Map of Bangkok showing where to stay in bangkok with the best areas marked

When it comes to the best places to stay while you’re in Bangkok, here is my selection of the 6 best neighborhoods, with recommended hotels for each:

Khao San Road

If you’re visiting for the first time, fancy a bit of fun and you’re only staying in Bangkok for a few days before moving on to other cities in Thailand, you might want to book a hotel in Khao San Road. This is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok for nightlife! Offering a bit of everything, from cheap street food to tourist attractions, this district is lively, fun and very touristy.
Khao San is dubbed as the famous backpacking area, which means you’ll find many budget hostel options and a whole lot of nightlife here! While you’re here, you can get a massage from one of the numerous parlours, go and experience some pumping bars, find stall vendors selling spiders and scorpions to eat… All in all, let’s just say that Khao San Road is a TRUE experience! For those that fancy a bit of luxury, Khao San Road is also home to a lot of 5-star accommodations.

TIP: Keep in mind that this area is not situated near the BTS Skytrain or Metro (the most common public transportation options in the city) – so if you want to explore other areas of the city, you will be reliant on taxis and tuk-tuks.

Where to stay in Khao San Road

MY TOP PICK: Praya Palazzo – I consider this to be one of the best hotels in all of Bangkok! It’s world-class facilities and excellent location is what makes me recommend this 5-star hotel, as it’s walking distance to the Grand Palace, by the Chao Phraya River. While you’re there, you can enjoy the outdoor pool and free 24-hour shuttle boat service!

hotel room at praya palazzo hotel in bangkok

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Other than Praya Palazzo, here are some other excellent hotels in Bangkok, Khao San Road area, sorted by budget:

LUXURY HOTELS

BOUTIQUE HOTELS

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

HOSTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Thanabhumi

Book a hotel in Khaosan Road

WHAT TO DO IN KHAO SAN ROAD

Visit the world-famous temples: Wat Pho, Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew. Plus the Grand Palace, too!
Discover Khao San Road itself, a place full of restaurants, bars, cafes, street food vendors and more;
Visit Bangkok National Museum;
Take a boat and see the city from a different perspective.

Siam

Peekaboo shot of Wat Benchamabopit seen through an archway

Wondering where to stay in Bangkok for shopping? I got you! If you’re looking to be in the heart of Bangkok or you just want to be near the city’s top shopping destination, Siam is the best area to stay for you! This area of the city, located around Siam Square, is built up with skyscrapers, filled with mega-malls, hotels, restaurants and offices.

A downside is that traffic can be pretty horrific in this part of town, but as the most central location in Bangkok, Siam is well-connected with both BTS Skytrain and the Metro stations nearby. This makes Siam my top choice for travellers who want to explore a lot of the city by public transport (recommended!). And if I sit and think about it, I can easily recommend Siam as an excellent place to stay for your first time in the city!

Where to stay in Siam

MY TOP PICK: Hotel Indigo – If you’re dreaming of staying at a luxurious 5-star hotel in one of the best neighborhoods in the city, want to enjoy an outdoor infinity pool while being located close to Siam Paragon shopping mall and Siam Square, this is the place for you. This hotel in Bangkok offers excellent service and an amazing location to top it off!

Girl Around the World sitting on the balcony facing the park at Hotel Indigo Bangkok

Melissa sitting in front of the infinity pool at Hotel Indigo Wireless Road Bangkok

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Here’s my complete selection of the best hotels in Siam for a superb stay in Bangkok:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Siam

WHAT TO DO IN SIAM AREA

Go to one of the many shopping malls around Siam Square and find everything you wish for and more: MBK Shopping Mall, Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Central World Mall. Among all of these, Siam Paragon might be my favourite!
Visit Jim Thompson’s House and learn about Thai silk;
Indulge in some authentic food at the street food stalls in the shopping centers;
Jump on the skytrain and check out Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Sukhumvit

In case you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok for a luxury, high end experience, this is a great place! Sukhumvit Road is one of Bangkok’s fancier districts, scattered with 10 Michelin-starred restaurants in the neighbourhood, world-class rooftop bars, elite nightlife spots and luxury hotel options. If you’re looking to live it up and splurge, then Sukhumvit area in Bangkok is surely one of the best places to stay in Bangkok for you!

This modern neighborhood in Bangkok is well-connected to the rest of the capital, with the BTS Skytrain running down the length of it, easily connecting with the main intersections in Siam.

Where to stay in Sukhumvit

MY TOP PICK FOR SUKHUMVIT: Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit – If you’re looking for a luxurious, world-class stay in the city in one of the best areas, I whole-heartedly recommend Hyatt Regency. This hotel boasts a superb outdoor pool, as well as a fitness centre for those of you who, like me, cannot start their day without a proper workout! And the rooms? Simply superb!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Other than this excellent hotel, here are my other top picks for a wonderful stay in the city:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book your hotel in Sukhumvit

WHAT TO DO IN SUKHUMVIT

Explore the vivid nightlife of Sukhumvit in one of the many bars and clubs in the area, especially along Tong Lo Road or Soi 11;
Shop ‘til you drop at Terminal 21 Shopping Mall;
If you’re interested in the Red Light District concept, go to Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy.

Riverside Area

If you’re looking for a Bangkok neighborhood that’s more laid-back and offers scenic views of Chao Phraya River, then the Riverside area is your answer! You’ll find many temples worth visiting around this area, together with the famous Royal Palace. And if you’re looking for some luxury, it is well-known that this area hosts TONS of luxurious hotels in Bangkok!

Another advantage is that this neighborhood in Bangkok has a very convenient location, so it will be very easy to get around the rest of the city and its top attractions.

Where to stay in the Riverside Area

MY TOP PICK: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort – This is a superb 5-star hotel located in the Riverside Area (one of the BEST areas of Bangkok for first time visitors, if you ask me!) that boasts a gorgeous outdoor pool and wonderfully decorated rooms. Ah, by the way, if you choose to book a room here, you’ll be able to choose from 10 (ten!) different on-site restaurants. Wow!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Here is my hand-picked selection for this area:

LUXURY HOTELS

BOUTIQUE

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

HOSTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Book your place on the Riverside

WHAT TO DO AROUND THE RIVERSIDE

Visit the famous temples of Wat Arun and Wat Pho, as well as the Royal Grand Palace, as they’re all located in walking distance to this area;
Buy some flowers and fresh produce from the Flower Market;
Take a ferry cruise;
Treat yourself in one of the luxurious Thai restaurants around.

Silom and Sathorn

Silom and Sathorn are two smaller areas located right next to each other, which we can consider to be one bigger neighbourhood. This is one of Bangkok’s financial districts (Silom is even considered to be Bangkok’s Wall Street!), situated further out from the city centre. This makes it appealing for travellers who are looking to get away from the busy bustle that takes over so much of the city’s central areas.

With a thriving dining scene, shopping and nightlife, you’ll find that even though Silom and Sathorn especially are a bit further out, this area of town has no shortage of great things to do. Even though the metro and BTS Skytrain are accessible here, you may need to rely on taxis to get around this part of the city.

Where to stay in Silom and Sathorn

MY TOP PICK: W Bangkok Hotel – It’s well-known that the W chain of hotels offers superior quality all over the world and their hotel in Bangkok is surely no exception! They have an outdoor swimming pool, an excellent on-site restaurant and the accommodation is located close to Silom Road. Ah, and make sure to check out the views from the top floors – simply breathtaking!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Take a look on the list below:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

BOUTIQUE:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Silom

WHAT TO DO IN SILOM AND SATHORN

Visit Patpong Night Market for food and other small shopping;
Relax and unwind in Lumpini Park (also called Lumphini Park);
Go to Patpong Night Market and explore the numerous stalls;

Chinatown

In case you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok in order to explore the city’s best cuisine, you’ll find your answer in the Chinatown area! Offering more than just amazing street food, Chinatown has become one of Bangkok’s most popular areas to stay. This is THE largest Chinatown in the world and a fun neighbourhood all in all!

There is a lot on offer here; sample dishes from the endless street food stalls selling a selection of Asian foods, wander the narrow street of Sampeng Market which seems to sell everything yet nothing really at all or visit the world’s largest golden statue at the Buddhist temple of Wat Traimit.

Where to stay in Chinatown

MY TOP PICK: Shanghai Mansion Bangkok – If you’re looking for a high quality stay in one of the most interesting areas in the city! This hotel is located in the heart of Chinatown! It has nicely decorated and clean rooms that actually recreate the traditional 1930s’ style in this area. A true gem!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

Hotel Royal Bangkok at Chinatown – Unfortunately, Chinatown has no 5-star hotels, but this 4-star hotel is the next best thing!
The Quarter Hualamphong by UHG

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENT:

The Spades Private Residence

Book your room in Chinatown

WHAT TO DO IN CHINATOWN

Visit Wat Traimit Temple to see the Golden Buddha;
Shop at Sampeng Market for food, spices, Chinese tea and more;
Explore the streets and discover Chinatown’s street art.

Aaand we have reached the end of my complete guide about where to stay in Bangkok! In this article I have told you everything you need to know about the 6 best neighbourhoods in the capital for tourists visiting for the first time or not! I have also selected some carefully hand-picked hotels for all budgets and preferences out there: resorts, upscale hotels, mid-range accommodations, as well as hostels and apartments. In short, you have everything you need here!

I’m sure your trip to Bangkok will be unforgettable! If you want to read more about other amazing destinations in Thailand, I recommend checking out this section here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

Want To Stay In The Loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Wat Pho in Bangkok – The Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho Temple (Wat Phra Chetuphon) is one of the many famous historical spots in Bangkok and I’m pretty sure it’s on your itinerary for the city as well. At least it should be! Thousands of people from all over the world come to visit this stunning temple in Bangkok each year, mostly to see its impressive Reclining Buddha statue and, if you’ll be one of them in the near future, this article is here to tell you everything you need to know!

Below you’ll find lots of precious info about visiting Wat Pho Temple – when and how to visit, the cost of entrance, which tours to take, how to dress and more. Plus my best tips to keep in mind before going to Wat Pho temple, which will help you save precious time and energy!

All right, let’s go:

First of all, why should you visit Wat Pho?

Melissa in front of the spires at Wat Pho Temple

Portrait of Melissa petting a cat with a Wat Pho spire in the background

99% of people visit Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha, which is 100% a legit reason to visit because this IS the highlight of the temple! Aside from the impressive statue of the Reclining Buddha, the entire temple complex of Wat Pho is really pretty and it’s full of intricate decorations and golden Buddha images in the shapes of statues and paintings. If I think about it, this may just be my favourite temple in Bangkok, so a visit here is definitely worth it!

RELATED READ: Wat Pho, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace are said to be the three must-visit tourist sights in Bangkok, located very close to each other. If you want to read more about each of the other two, I recommend checking out my dedicated articles:

Everything you need to know about visiting Wat Pho, Bangkok

Quick info about Wat Pho

Wat Pho was once Thailand’s first public university with a focus on science, literature and, of course, religion. There are more than 1.300 inscriptions on marble talking about medical sciences around the temple complex (which is why visiting with a guide makes everything much easier to understand!). It is believed that Wat Pho was established in the 16th century and it was later used as a Royal Temple for King Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty.

Nowadays, Wat Pho is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Bangkok and a famous traditional Thai massage and medicine centre. Moreover, Wat Pho has been a UNESCO Memory of the World (MOW) since 2008.

RELATED READ: For my complete list of unmissable highlights and cool activities in this city, I recommend checking my dedicated article: 5 Unmissable Tourist Places to See in Bangkok – A Complete City Guide

What to see at Wat Pho Temple complex

The Reclining Buddha

As I mentioned before, the most iconic site in the temple complex is the Reclining Buddha – a Buddha figure in the ‘Nirvana’ or enlightenment pose. Why is this so interesting, after all? That’s a legit question. First of all, the statue is massive – it’s 15 metres tall and 46 metres long.

The Buddha’s feet are 5 metres long and they’re decorated with painted images and ‘laksanas’ (characteristics) of Buddha. Second of all, the statue is covered in gold leaf, so you can imagine how impressive it looks in person, right? It’s kind of interesting to see how big the Reclining Buddha is, really, it looks like someone squeezed it into the place!

NOTE: Before entering the Reclining Buddha room, you’ll have to take your shoes off.

108 coins

person placing a coin inside one of the 108 vases

For 20 baht (0.65 US$), you can purchase a small bowl that contains 108 coins. As a meditative practice, you walk along the wall on the backside of the reclining Buddha and drop a coin in each of the 108 buckets. Why 108? 108 is a holy number in Buddhism and the coins you provide as this meditation is used for the upkeep of the temple. And you can also make a wish!

The rest of the temple complex

statues lined up against a wall at wat pho

Except for the famous Reclining Buddha, there are some other cool things to admire on the site. For example, there are 4 chapels with beautiful Buddha images, gold Buddha statues lined up, complex murals and some pretty cool and colourful stupas and Chinese statues in the courtyards. Visitors have access to all these with their entrance ticket and you can even book a guide on-site for 200 or 400 baht (6.40 or 12.80 US$).

Wat Pho massage – Traditional Thai Massage School

person giving a thai massage to a lied down person

Wat Pho is considered the first public university for teaching Thai Massage. They also teach Thai medicine in this temple and you can get a variety of traditional Thai massages here. Although you can search and find a better rate out and about, the historical significance of this school seems to draw in the tourists.

Thai massage 30 min: 260 Baht (8.30 US$)
Thai massage 1hr: 420 Baht (13.40 US$)
Foot massage 30min: 280 Baht (9 US$)
Foot massage 1 hr: 420 Baht (13.40 US$)

How to get to Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok

Map of Bangkok with the three main attractions marked on the map

Wat Pho Temple is located on the river banks, next to the riverboat pier, very close to the Grand Palace, across the river from Wat Arun and right behind Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Wat Pho address: Maharat Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Find it on Google Maps here.

The closest MRT station to Wat Pho is Sanam Chai on the blue line. The temple is only a 7-minute walk away from the station. You can also get there by boat if you get on at Tha Tien pier. There are different ways to get to Wat Pho, depending on where you’re staying in the city. I’ll talk about the most popular options below:

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM SIAM:

Grab / Taxi: 20-minute ride (depending on traffic)
BTS Skytrain and boat: 41min duration, BTS to Saphan Taksin station, Boat shuttle to Tha Chang
Bus: 50min duration, 47 or 508 Bus from Siam Centre

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM SUKHUMVIT:

Grab / Taxi: 30-minute ride (depending on traffic)
MRT: 47min duration, MRT blue line to Sanam Chai

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM KHAO SAN ROAD:

Grab / Taxi: 10min duration (depending on traffic)
Public Transport: 25min duration, 404 or 59 Bus from Ratchadamnoen Klang Road

Grab is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, where you can order on-demand taxis for cheaper and less hassle than regular taxis. When using Grab, the price of the fare will show before you order a taxi, you can pay in cash or card through the app, and the taxi picks you up and drops you off at a location of your choice.

TOP TIP #1: Use the Grab App to price check how much a trip should cost when you are getting a regular taxi. This way you’ll have a reference when haggling with Taxi drivers and will protect you from getting ripped off.

TOP TIP #2: If you’re visiting the Grand Palace first, it’s best to take a tuk-tuk ride to Wat Pho next. The entire ride is very short and also pretty fun! Another very good option is walking.

Wat Pho opening hours

portrait of girl around the world in between two spires at wat pho

Melissa walking between the colourful spires of Wat Pho temple

Wat Pho temple is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The massage service is available until 6:00 PM.

Best time to visit Wat Pho Temple

AIM FOR: Getting to Wat Pho first thing in the morning when it opens. This way you will miss both the harsh midday heat and the overwhelming crowds that come hand in hand with so many of the popular temples in Bangkok (usually from 10:00 AM on).

Personally, we arrived at Wat Pho at 7:30 AM and they let us into the temple complex early. It was so nice to get the site completely to ourselves. We stayed for 1h30’ before heading to Wat Arun (15min away), so we got to see both these sites while they were still uncrowded. An excellent tip if you want to avoid the long lines and it’s definitely worth it to wake up so early in the morning!

AVOID: Visiting on weekends or public holidays. It also gets pretty busy in the afternoons.

RELATED READ: To read more about visiting Wat Arun, read my dedicated blog post: A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Pho entrance fee

Entrance fee: 200 Baht (6.40 US$).

The fee includes a small water bottle as well. Your ticket allows you to visit everything in the temple complex without any extra fees. The massage is paid for separately (I mentioned the prices above). If you want to book a guide at the gates, the prices are 200 to 400 baht and they speak very good English.

You can purchase tickets on arrival at the gates or pre-book them online here with hotel pick-up included!

Best Wat Pho tours

monks walking through wat pho towards the main temple

In case you don’t want to waste precious vacation time trying to organise your itinerary around Bangkok, I wholeheartedly recommend booking an organised tour. This way you’ll have the entrance covered and a knowledgeable local guide will tell you all kinds of interesting information about the sights you’re visiting. If you ask me, the best idea would be to book a multi-temple tour (Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which will save you a lot of time. Here are the best ones I selected for you:

Find more Wat Pho tours

Wat Pho Temple dress code

Melissa going through a doorway with a huge spire in the background

Like most places of worship, the temples in Bangkok have a strict dress code for those wishing to visit. The most important thing to remember is to cover your knees and shoulders and to take off your shoes before entering the Reclining Buddha room. If you would like to check out the complete list of guidelines for visitors, you can find a breakdown on Wat Pho’s official website here.

The most important things to bring with you to Wat Pho

Of course, I couldn’t NOT share with you a useful packing list for Wat Pho (or any other temple or attraction in Bangkok, really):

800 baht in cash – the cost of the entrance ticket, massage for 1 hour and a little extra just in case;
Water – hydration is key, especially in the midday heat!
A hat – to protect you from the midday sun;
Sunscreen – same;

BONUS #1: What to visit near Wat Pho in Bangkok

Melissa walking through a doorway while visiting the grand palace

When planning your itinerary for the city, you’ll quickly realise that there are many other beautiful landmarks located within walking distance of the Grand Palace. Here are the best nearby attractions:

Grand Palace – probably the most famous attraction around Bangkok. The Palace is only a short walk or tuk-tuk ride away from Wat Pho. You can read all my most precious tips for this attraction here.
Wat Arun / The Temple of Dawn – another gorgeous Buddhist temple located across the river from Wat Pho and a must-see during your stay in Bangkok. You can take a water taxi to it.
Wat Mahathat – a great place for Vipassana Meditation and buying cute souvenirs. It’s also among the oldest temples in Bangkok;
Bangkok National Museum – one of the biggest museums in Southeast Asia and the best place to see some beautiful local art;
Kao San Road – 20 minutes walk from Wat Pho.

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for visiting Bangkok

Here’s our camera gear that we take all around with us, perfect for Bangkok too. It has everything you’ll ever need!

CAMERA: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

EVERYDAY LENS: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

WIDE ANGLE LENS: Sigma 10-20mm f3.5 EX DC

PORTRAIT LENS: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG

GOPRO: GoPro HERO8 Black

TRIPOD: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect

NV FILTER: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter

CAMERA BAG: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack

HARD DRIVE: LaCie 4 TB

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about our photography gear, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: What’s in my Camera Bag – All My Travel Blogging Gear

This was my complete guide for everyone visiting the Reclining Buddha Temple in Bangkok! I have told you everything you need to know above, from ticket prices to the different ways of getting there – and much more!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in the city? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Pho Temple

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A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn or Wat Chaeng among locals, is one of the highlights of Bangkok and an unmissable place to visit during your trip to Bangkok. It’s located right on the riverside of Chao Phraya and it has incredible architecture.

If you’re planning a visit soon, you’re in the right place! The complete guide below will tell you everything you need to know before visiting Wat Arun in Thailand, from opening times to ticket prices, tours, how to get there and more.

Are you ready?

First of all, why should you visit Wat Arun Temple?

Melissa sitting on the stairs of one of the sides of Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok

portrait of Girl Around the World in front of the tiles at Wat Arun

It isn’t hard to see why Wat Arun is considered one of the prettiest temples in Thailand and one of the main attractions in Bangkok! Standing majestically on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the temple is an impressive sight at both sunrise and sunset when Wat Arun shines golden in the light.

Wat Arun dates back to the 17th century and its beautiful prang (main spire) was only added when King Rama II ruled the country. The central spire of Wat Arun stands over 70 meters high with four smaller spires found at each corner of the main paragon. The surface of the temple is covered with over one million broken pieces of Chinese porcelain tiles (how awesome is that?!) which shine as they catch the light. If you listen closely, you will hear the little bells that dangle from the top of all 5 spires, gently chiming in the breeze.

Named after the Hindu Goddess Aruna, the word “Arun” in Sanskrit translates to “the light of dawn”. It is believed that Wat Arun was built by General Taksin in 1768, who arrived at the temple during daybreak after returning from battle. For a time, it acted as the king’s royal temple and was home to the Emerald Buddha before the statue was moved to the Grand Palace.

You can normally climb the stairway of the main temple but we were unlucky when we went as climbing was not allowed due to reconstruction. The steps to the top are known to be quite steep, but the railing is there to help keep you steady. All in all, it’s a must-visit!

Everything you need to know about visiting Wat Arun, Bangkok

What to see inside Wat Arun Temple

Melissa on her knees praying in front of a monk in Wat Arun

Did you know that Wat Arun is not just one temple, but a temple complex? And quite a gorgeous one, I must admit. You’ll find the Main Temple (also known as the holiest of all temples), the Ordination Hall and Phra Prang. Plus other beautiful buildings, murals and statues that are waiting to be discovered.

I 100% encourage you to visit the rest of the temple complex. So many tourists simply visit the main temple and then leave, but I loved walking around and exploring the smaller temples on the Wat Arun grounds and was lucky enough to receive a blessing from a monk there.

As I was exploring the grounds, I heard chanting from inside a smaller temple. I slipped off my shoes and slowly peered inside. A solo monk sat on a raised area, inviting people forward for blessings. The monk saw me watching from the doorway and beckoned me forward, motioning for me to sit before him with my hands in prayer high by my forehead.

As he recited a blessing, he gently sprinkled holy water across my head and shoulders. The monk then directed me to put my arm out before him and lightly tied a sai sin (blessed bracelet for good luck and protection) around my wrist. He was so deft, effortlessly tying the string not too loose or too tight, without ever coming in contact with my skin.

It was such a special experience, both to witness and to have for me.

How to get to Wat Arun, Bangkok

Wat Arun is centrally located, on the West bank of the Chao Phraya River, which divides Bangkok in two. Its location is right on the opposite side of Wat Phra Temple. By far, the easiest way to reach it is by ferry. You can catch a ferry from Tha Tien Pier, which will drop you right in front of Wat Arun and vice-versa on return. The terminal is small and surrounded by food stalls, restaurants and souvenir shops. You really can’t miss it if you stick to the riverside.

NOTE: The ferry can get pretty full around midday, so you may need to stand, but the journey is so, so short (literally 5min) so it isn’t too inconvenient.

There are other options to get to Wat Arun by road, but I really wouldn’t recommend it (unless, of course, you are staying on the West side of the river). It’s far by road and the journey length really doesn’t make sense when getting a boat is so cheap and easy!

Boat price: 4 baht/person, each way (0.13 US$)

Leaving: Every 5-10 minutes or once the ferry is full from Tha Tien Pier

Journey duration: 5 minutes

Wat Arun address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600

Co-ordinates: 13.743704, 100.488877

Wat Arun opening hours

Wat Arun Temple is open every day, year-round, from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The last admission is at 4:40

PM.

Best time to visit Wat Arun Temple

AIM FOR: If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Wat Arun is in the morning. Most tourists head to the Grand Palace first, so heading to Wat Arun early is a nice way to get it all to yourself.

Around 10:00 AM Wat Arun starts to get busier and by midday, it’s all hot and crowded. You’ll find yourself dancing around the central spire searching for a spot of shade. After 3:00 PM the temperatures cool down a bit and the crowds die down too (the last admission is at 4:40 PM), so the late afternoon is another good time to visit. In short, aim for sunrise or sunset.

AVOID: Peak hours between 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM

TIP: Head to the East side of the river for jaw-dropping sunset views over the temple. As the sun begins to sink, the sky turns red and the temple almost lights up before plunging into a dark silhouette.

HOW LONG TO SPEND AT WAT ARUN

At least 1 hour, ideally 2 hours. During our visit, it took about two hours to slowly wander around Wat Arun and its grounds.

Wat Arun entrance fee

The Wat Arun grounds (which include a few smaller temples) are free to enter and explore, but you will need to purchase a ticket at the entrance to access the main temple.

Wat Arun ticket price: 50 baht (1.60 US$)

Best Wat Arun tours

Melissa facing the opposite way on one of the sides of Wat Arun

Here’s an idea: instead of losing precious vacation time trying to organise your itinerary to the main highlights of the city such as the Grand Palace with its Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho Temple and Wat Arun as well, why not book an organised tour with a local guide? A combo tour is great for saving time and seeing as much as possible in a short given time. Here are my hand-picked recommendations for combo tours for Wat Pho, Wat Arun and the famous Grand Palace.

Flexi Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun – one of the most popular tour options for seeing all 3 temples! Entrance tickets included.
Bangkok in a Day: Must-Visit Highlights Tour with a Guide – for travellers that only have a short time in Bangkok and want to see as many attractions as possible;
Bangkok: 4-Hour Night Bike Tour with Wat Arun & Wat Pho – for active travellers willing to take a night tour!
Best Of Bangkok: Temples & Long-tail Boat Tour with Lunch – boat ride included!
Bangkok: Instagram Spots & Half-Day Temples Tour

Find more Wat Arun tours

Best restaurants with a view of Wat Arun

Girl Around the World on the balcony of a hotel room facing a river overlooking Wat Arun

Here are the best spots for sipping a drink and admiring an amazing view of the temple, especially at night:

My top recommendation: the rooftop bar at Sala Arun Hotel called “Eagle Nest” – a great place to see the sunset from the opposite side of Wat Arun! You can find more details about it here. No need to be a guest to visit and the view is simply incredible. Get ready for some beautiful photos!
Eat Sight Story Deck
Vivi The Coffee Place
Supanniga Eating Room
The Deck by Arun Residence

Wat Arun dress code

Melissa placing her shoes at a stand for shoes in front of Wat Arun

Like many religious sites, there is a dress code to abide by when visiting Wat Arun. Visitors must cover their shoulders, chest and knees. Men should wear pants and shirts with sleeves (no tank tops) and women should wear pants or skirts that pass their knees. If in doubt, just keep in mind that this is a place of worship and dress modestly.

However, if you find you don’t have clothing that fits the requirements, don’t stress too much. You can cover up by renting a sarong at the entrance for 20 baht (there is also a 100 baht deposit).

RANT: One of my personal pet peeves that I saw happen around Wat Arun (sorry, but I just have to call this out) was women covering their legs and shoulders to get past the entrance and then altering their clothes for photos once inside. I am serious. I actually saw women changing their outfits to be more revealing, I am guessing ‘for the gram’.

This is so ridiculous to me. Beyond ridiculous. This should be obvious, but just to clarify – it is not okay to hitch up your skirt or unbutton your blouse for an Instagram picture when visiting a religious site. Wat Arun is not the place to go for a sexy photo shoot. It’s disrespectful and quite frankly, it makes you look daft. Save the ‘oh la la’ for the poolside, ladies.

Packing list for Wat Arun

Remember to bring:

sunscreen – the sun hits harshly during the day. Don’t become a tomato!
a sarong or a scarf – to cover your chest and shoulders in the temple.
a bottle of water – hydration is key!
60 baht in cash – for the ticket entrance and small notes for the return ferry costs.

What to visit near Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok

Golden Stupa at The Grand Palace in Bangkok

Except for the Temple of Dawn, there are some other unmissable attractions to tick off your list on the banks of the Chao Phraya River:

Grand Palace – one of THE most popular attractions in Bangkok. It’s quite hectic most of the times, so if you want all the best tips about visiting the Grand Palace, I recommend checking out my dedicated guide: Visiting The Grand Palace in Bangkok – Guide and Useful Tips
Wat Pho Temple – this is another beautiful temple where the Reclining Buddha is located, a 46-meter-long statue that’s just as impressive as the Emerald Buddha. You can either walk to Wat Pho, take a water taxi or a tuk-tuk.
Wat Mahathat – a great place for Vipassana Meditation and buying cute souvenirs. It’s also among the oldest temples in Bangkok;
Bangkok National Museum – one of the biggest museums in Southeast Asia and the best place to see some beautiful local art and statues;
Museum of Siam – only a boat ride away, this discovery museum is the perfect place to learn more about Thai life, both history and present times;

BONUS #1: My best tips for visiting the Temple of Dawn

Portrait of Melissa leaning on the tiles at Wat Arun

I just couldn’t miss the opportunity to give you the most precious tips I found out when I visited Wat Arun, am I right? Here goes:

The best time to visit is very early in the morning or late in the evening;
If you want to visit the main temple and pagoda, keep in mind that the stairs up are quite steep so be careful at all times;
Don’t forget about the dress code – dress appropriately if you want to be allowed inside the temple! This is true for all religious sites and temples in Thailand;
Photography is allowed free of charge everywhere inside the location;
King Rama II placed his crown on the top of the main pagoda – make sure to check it out!
Don’t miss the other attractions nearby on the banks of Chao Phraya, either on the same side or on the opposite side. These are all mentioned above!

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for visiting Bangkok

Here’s our camera gear that we take all around with us, perfect for Bangkok too. It has everything you’ll ever need!

CAMERA: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

EVERYDAY LENS: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

WIDE ANGLE LENS: Sigma 10-20mm f3.5 EX DC

PORTRAIT LENS: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG

GOPRO: GoPro HERO8 Black

TRIPOD: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect

NV FILTER: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter

CAMERA BAG: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack

HARD DRIVE: LaCie 4 TB

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about our photography gear, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: What’s in my Camera Bag – All My Travel Blogging Gear

You have reached the end f my complete travel guide for Wat Arun Temple (Temple of Dawn) in Bangkok. This gorgeous temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya River is one of Thailand’s treasures, a place full of history, with superb architecture! I truly believe this is one of the unmissable spots that should be part of your Bangkok itinerary for sure.

If you want to visit some other unforgettable attractions located in Bangkok such as Wat Pho or the Grand Palace, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about Bangkok.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in the city? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Arun in Bangkok

An Ultimate Guide to Visiting Wat Arun in Bangkok

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Visiting The Grand Palace, Bangkok – Guide and Useful Tips

Are you planning on visiting the Grand Palace Bangkok? It’s Thailand’s most sacred temple and the #1 tourist attraction in the entire city, should there’s a good chance it’s on your list!

Before your visit, there are some things you need to know such as the opening times, entry fees, dress code, common scams to avoid and some useful tips that will help you a lot during your time spent here. Luckily for you, this article will tell you everything you need to know!

Scroll down to find my complete guide for the Grand Palace and some important tips that I learned before I went there:

Quick info and a brief history of Bangkok’s Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is without a doubt the most famous tourist destination in Thailand. After all, it’s the place where Bangkok was born!

The incredible complex of buildings in central Bangkok was the royal family’s official residence from 1782 (when King Rama I started the construction) until 1925. Even though the royal home has moved to Dusit Palace afterwards, the Grand Palace still holds most of the major monarchy events such as royal ceremonies and state functions.

With gold-plated buildings and walls covered with precious stones, the Grand Palace is hard to miss even from outside the palace walls. But the real treasure can be found within Wat Phra Kaew’s temple, which holds the most sacred Buddhist relic in South East Asia – the Emerald Buddha, also known as the Jade Buddha.

The Emerald Buddha was carved out of a single block of Jade and is wrapped in a golden coat, which is changed seasonally by the King of Thailand himself. By the way, two of the golden coats were created by King Rama I himself for the Buddha!

It is said that the Emerald Buddha watches over the Thai Nation, protecting it from harm. Moreover, it is believed that this Buddha will protect whichever country it is placed in, and was fought over by the neighbouring nations for many years until it landed in Thailand in 1779. The statue moved to Bangkok in 1784 and has remained here until the present day.

WHY IS IT WORTH VISITING?

First of all, for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) where you can see the famous statue. Second of all, for the beautiful green gardens and the mesmerising murals found all around the palace complex. Plus a couple of other nice buildings I’ll mention below!

What to see inside the Grand Palace

I must tell you right from the start: the Grand Palace complex is quite BIG! It’s 218.400 sqm big, to be more precise and it has a square shape surrounded by 4 walls.

Here’s everything that you can see there on this Grand Palace Bangkok map:

map of the grand palace with every building's history written out

The Palace is divided into three main sections:

Outer court – all the buildings related to the King’s “duties” such as the treasury and the army building;
Center court – the palace and temples;
Inner court – residencies and all the buildings where the royal family lived;

Now I know there are many different buildings inside the Grand Palace, but here are the real highlights that are worth visiting while you’re walking around the grounds:

Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) – no. 10 – the holy grand temple where the Jade Buddha is showcased;
Phra Mondhop – no. 7 – the scripture crypt with superb green and golden glass mosaic;
Phra Viharn Yot – no. 5 – the treasury with the ancient treasures, including King Ramkhamhaeng’s throne, dating from the 13th century;
Chakri Maha Prasat – no. 26 – Great Chakri Palace / Grand Palace Hall / Royal Reception Halls – a true insight into the royal lives of the kings – you can find beautiful paintings and portraits inside. Prasat Phra is actually the place where the royal family used to live;
Prasat Phra Debidorn – no. 9 – the Royal Pantheon with full-size statues of former kings. Unfortunately, travellers can only see the inside on the 6th of April each year, during Chakri Day. But the outside of the Royal Pantheon is really pretty too!
Model of Angkor Wat – no. 6 – the model version of the real Angkor Wat carved in stone and used for the planning of the famous temple in Cambodia. You will find the mini Angkor Wat right across the Emerald Temple.
Dusit Maha Prasat – no. 31 – Great Dusit Hall – this traditional Thai hall was the place where King Rama used to receive his guests while sitting on a gorgeous throne. Now, the beautiful hall is open to visitors and you’ll get to see some original furniture inside.

When to visit the Grand Palace

Girl Around the World walking down the steps in front of a golden and purple building in the grand palace

Melissa behind a pillar at The Grand Palace Bangkok

There’s only one bad thing to note about the Grand Palace (and it’s quite a heavy one): It is the most crowded tourist destination I have ever visited in my ENTIRE LIFE of being a traveller!

It is said that the only way to beat the crowds is by being ready to enter when it opens, right at 8.30 AM. I have also heard that later in the day, just before closing time, the palace starts to get less crowded, but try and avoid the midday rush if possible.

OPENING HOURS: 8.30 AM – 3.30 PM. The Grand Palace is open every day of the week including national and religious holidays; it can only be closed during very rare Royal ceremonies;

IDEAL SCENARIO: enter the temple at 8.30 AM
WORST SCENARIO: visiting at midday, on weekends or public holidays

If you struggle in crowded spaces, seriously, consider giving the whole thing a miss. Due to the temple’s importance, thousands of tourists visit every day, making the experience really stressful. During your visit, there will be lots of moments when you will be crammed up against hundreds of other people. It can be hot and frustrating and a lot of people lose their manners and morality in the chaos.

OUR EXPERIENCE

Honestly, seeing the Grand Palace was beautiful and incredible, but the experience itself was horrible, hectic and one that I would never do a second time. We entered first thing in the morning and it was still extremely crowded. As the morning went on it only got busier, so I recommend you go early while it’s still less busy and the midday heat hasn’t added to the stress.

The palace grounds themselves are really beautiful, so if this sounds like something doable for you, then go for it! If not, don’t stress, scroll down to find my recommended attractions in Bangkok to visit instead of the Grand Palace, so you won’t feel like you’re missing too much.

Grand Palace Bangkok entry fee

Melissa sitting in front of a statue at The Grand Palace

Grand Palace admission fee: 500 baht (16 US$) per person

Audio guide: extra 200 baht (6.40 US$) – recommended if you want to do a self-guided tour; it’s full of interesting information and it’s available in English, French, German, Spanish, Russian and more.

What’s included in your ticket: entry to the palace grounds and inside Wat Phra Kaew temple and museum, Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles

You have two choices: you can either buy your ticket at the booths at the entrance gate (Wiseedtschairi Gate) or, if you don’t want to waste time in long lines, you can also pre-order your ticket online (at least 24 hours before your visit) and collect it from the dedicated booth/window on the day of your visit. If you decide to book it online, you can do so on the official website here.

TIP: Remember not to purchase tickets on the day from anywhere else apart from the official ticket office as scams are common around the gates of the site.

TIP #2: Your ticket also includes entrance to Vimanmek Palace and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall and it’s available for 7 days after your visit to the Grand Palace.

Best Grand Palace tours for your visit

Top of the golden stupa at the grand palace

There are free tours in English taking place at 10 AM, 10.30 AM in the morning and 1.30 PM and 2 PM in the afternoon. If you feel like the knowledge of a local guide will help you understand this place better, I recommend going for it!

In case you don’t want to be in a large crowd of tourists for the free tour, here are some other, better guided tours I can recommend, as well as some combo tours and unique ways to see the Grand Palace without actually being inside of it:

Grand Palace: English Guided Tour – admission included + 2-hour guided tour;
Private Tour: Best of Bangkok in A Day – if you prefer a private experience instead – includes the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho;
Half-Day Bangkok City Highlights Small-Group Tour – with a delicious Thai lunch on the riverside included!
Flexi Walking Temple Tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun – mix and match your favourites;
Best Of Bangkok: Temples & Long-tail Boat Tour with Lunch – includes a visit to the Grand Palace;
Bangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River – superb dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River during which you’ll see the Grand Palace and Wat Arun from afar;

TIP: You can also hire a local guide on the spot at the palace, but you’ll have to negotiate a price with them beforehand.

Find more tours

What to wear – Dress code for Bangkok’s Grand Palace

Melissa sitting at a prayer site inside the grand palace

As The Grand Palace is an active place of worship, it requires a set dress code for visiting:

Men cannot wear sleeveless shirts, vests or shorts;
Women cannot have their knees, shoulders or chest showing
Other items not allowed include ripped jeans, very tight pieces of clothing, see-through or revealing clothing or low V-neck tops, as well as shirts with death symbols, such as heavy metal T-shirts. I know, it may sound silly, but rules are rules.
Avoid flip flops as well if you can, although they sometimes accept them for tourists.

If in doubt, aim for long pants and a T-shirt.

If you’re worried that you may not have the right attire, it’s okay. You can rent clothes (tops and trousers) at the entrance of the premises. However, I would advise you to come prepared to save yourself from the stress of renting and returning clothes.

NOTE #1: This dress code is the same for all active Buddhist sites across Thailand, in case you’re planning to visit other temples too!

NOTE #2: Unlike other temples, the Grand Palace does not allow you to use a scarf or sarong to cover your chest and shoulders. If you try to enter this way they will ask you to rent a proper top from their rental service.

Common scams to avoid at Bangkok’s Grand Palace

huge crowd in front of a main building at the grand palace

Sadly, busy tourist spots like this one attract scam artists looking to make an extra dollar on gullible tourists. Please be aware of the following scams when visiting the Grand Palace:

FALSE: You can’t get inside the palace without purchasing a ticket prior to entry or without a tour guide accompanying you inside. TRUE: The ticket booth is inside the premises, and you can always purchase entry tickets there or pick up your tickets there if you bought them online;
FALSE: You are not dressed correctly and need to purchase some clothing in one of the shops outside of the palace. The reason is that tuk-tuk drivers will want to take you to their preferred shops where they get a commission. TRUE: If you don’t have appropriate clothing, a security official will let you know and direct you to the official Grand Palace’s clothing rental location;
FALSE: The Grand Palace is closed for some reason. You will then be persuaded to purchase a tour of Bangkok and told that you will be dropped at the Grand Palace once it reopens. TRUE: The Grand Palace is closed on very, VERY rare occasions when Royal ceremonies take place, so there’s a 99% chance this is a lie. Just ignore the people telling you this and proceed to enter the palace grounds – you’ll see that the Palace is open.

If you haven’t done your research, it can be easy to fall into one of these traps. We personally weren’t approached by any scammers, but we heard a lot of stories from other tourists we met. Just be ready for anything and only believe what the officials tell you!

How to get to the Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Grand Palace is located right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, on Na Phra Lan Road. Here’s its exact location:

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200

Co-ordinates: 13.750039, 100.491420

Getting to the Grand Palace can be a bit tricky depending on where you are staying. The easiest way is to order a Grab (Asian version of Uber), but this could take ages if you accidentally leave during rush hour (the traffic in Bangkok can be quite hectic!) so make sure you double-check before you leave.

NOTE: Grab is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, where you can order on-demand taxis for cheaper and less hassle than regular taxis. When using Grab, the price of the fare will show before you order a ride, you can pay in cash or card through the app, and the car picks you up and drops you off at a location of your choice.

NOTE #2: When going to The Grand Palace, taxis are not allowed to drop you off right at the gates. Instead, they will drop you off a 5-min walk away from the palace’s gate.

How to reach the Grand Palace depending on your location

Here are the best ways to reach the Grand Palace (express boat, MRT, BTS, bus) from the most popular spots in Bangkok, along with the trip distances:

BY BOAT: take the Chao Phyara Express Boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier, which is within walking distance to the entrance.

FROM SIAM:

Grab / Taxi: 20min duration (depending on traffic)
BTS Skytrain and boat: 41min duration, BTS to Saphan Taksin, Boat shuttle to Tha Chang
Bus: 50min duration, 47 or 508 Bus from Siam Centre

FROM SUKHUMVIT:

Grab / Taxi: 30min duration (depending on traffic)
MRT: 47min duration, MRT blue line to Sanam Chai

FROM KHAO SAN ROAD:

Grab / Taxi: 10min duration (depending on traffic)
Public Transport: 25min duration, 404 or 59 Bus from Ratchadamnoen Klang Road

RELATED READ: In case you’re looking for the best accommodation options in Bangkok’s Old Town (the perfect location near the temple – a 10-minutes walk to the Grand Palace), I recommend reading my dedicated post: Where to Stay in Bangkok – 6 Best Areas and Hotels

The most important things to bring with you to the Grand Palace

The Grand palace complex in bangkok photographed from far away

700 -1000 baht in cash – the cost of entrance ticket, clothing rental and a little extra just in case.
Water – hydration is key, especially in the midday heat!
A hat – to protect you from the midday sun;
Sunscreen – same;
Loads of patience – It can be hectic! Try to keep calm and enjoy the experience, regardless.

My top tips for visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace

Melissa walking towards a golden building

Now that you know all the practical info you need for the best experience, don’t forget about my most important tips:

ARRIVE EARLY.

I recommend arriving right when the gates open, at 8:30 AM. The bigger groups arrive a bit later so let’s say you’ll have a couple of peaceful moments before it becomes hectic and before the heat settles in. The ticket booths are open from 8 30am to 3 30pm.

BE PATIENT.

Yes, it’s crowded and yes, it’s hot, which can mean you can get frustrated quickly. Try to enjoy your time there without stressing and don’t feel like you have to explore everything on the palace premises. If the atmosphere is too much for you, proceed to some other tourist sites instead such as Wat Arun – for more recommendations, check my list below.

ONCE INSIDE, BE AWARE OF YOUR BELONGINGS.

Make sure you keep an eye on your bag, phone, camera and other valuables at all times, just as you’d do in other tourist places around the world.

WEAR A HAT AND LOTS OF SPF + BRING WATER.

I can’t stress this enough: Bangkok is extremely hot and humid, especially during March, April and May, so a hat, lots of water and sunscreen are essential for your comfort. I don’t advise bringing a sun umbrella with you, as you’ll be bumping into crowds all day and that can get uncomfortable quickly.

WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHES.

I have told you everything you need to know about the Grand Palace’s dress code in my dedicated section above – long pants, decent tops, no sleeveless shirts.

SHOES OFF BEFORE ENTERING SACRED PLACES.

Keep this in mind when deciding what you’re wearing – aim for shoes that are easy to put on and take off.

IS PHOTOGRAPHY ALLOWED?

Yes, but you can’t take pictures inside the Emerald Buddha Temple.

GET INFORMED AND DON’T FALL FOR THE SCAMS.

I told you all about the most famous scams at the Grand Palace above – make sure you’re aware of them at all times before you enter the gates!

DON’T GET DISCOURAGED.

Just because the Grand Palace is super touristy and crowded, this doesn’t mean all the places in Bangkok are like this. On the contrary – this is probably the worst one in terms of crowds, so rest assured that you’ll have a more relaxed time at other sites and highlights in Bangkok.

What to visit near the Grand Palace in Bangkok

Melissa looking down from one of the edges of wat arun temple in Bangkok

Wat Pho – this is another beautiful temple where the Reclining Buddha is located, a 46-meter-long statue that’s just as impressive as the Emerald Buddha. You can either walk to it, take a water taxi or a tuk-tuk.
Wat Arun / The Temple of Dawn – another gorgeous Buddhist temple right across the river from Wat Pho and a must-see during your stay in Bangkok. You can take a water taxi to it.
Wat Mahathat – a great place for Vipassana Meditation and buying cute souvenirs. It’s also among the oldest temples in Bangkok;
Bangkok National Museum – one of the biggest museums in Southeast Asia and the best place to see some beautiful local art;
Kao San Road – 25-minutes by foot from the Grand Palace.

RELATED READ: For my complete list of unmissable highlights and cool activities in this city, I recommend checking my dedicated article: 5 Unmissable Tourist Places to See in Bangkok

BONUS #1: What to visit INSTEAD of the Grand Palace in Bangkok

Melissa posing in the courtyard of Wat Pho Bangkok

If the Grand Palace sounds too much for you, I completely get it. I know most travellers say this is a must-see during a trip to Bangkok, but I’m not 100% sure of it. In case you decide to skip it, don’t worry, here are some equally cool places to see around Bangkok instead of spending time here:

Wat Pho and Wat Arun – these two temples are located across the river from each other. I recommend visiting them both for a calmer, better-valued experience;
Ayutthaya – a UNESCO World Heritage site that can be visited as a day trip from Bangkok. You can even spend two days here, it’s simply awesome! Ayutthaya used to be the biggest city in the world 300 years ago; now, you can visit the remaining stone palaces and monasteries in this historical site. If you’re interested, I recommend booking this day trip by bus & boat.

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for visiting Bangkok

Here’s our camera gear that we take all around with us, perfect for Bangkok too. It has everything you’ll ever need!

CAMERA: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

EVERYDAY LENS: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

WIDE ANGLE LENS: Sigma 10-20mm f3.5 EX DC

PORTRAIT LENS: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG

GOPRO: GoPro HERO8 Black

TRIPOD: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect

NV FILTER: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter

CAMERA BAG: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack

HARD DRIVE: LaCie 4 TB

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about travel photography gear, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: What’s in my Camera Bag – All My Travel Blogging Gear

Phew! This was my complete guide for all travellers visiting the Grand Palace for the first time and, I promise, you’ll have ALL the information you need above; entrance fees, common scams to avoid, when to visit, what to wear and everything in-between! And remember: Bangkok is SO much more than the Temple of the Emerald Buddha!

If you’re interested in reading more tips and precious information that will help you prepare the perfect Bangokok itinerary, I recommend clicking here to read all my articles about Bangkok, Thailand.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

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