Think of popular tourist destinations among Singaporeans, and Thailand would most definitely be top of mind for most. Not surprising at all, considering there are so many things to do in Bangkok including shopping at BKK night markets, indulging in Thai steamboats, and visiting its beautiful temples.
If you’re planning on heading down to Bangkok once again but are looking for new haunts, we’ve got you covered with a list of new things to do in Bangkok in 2024.
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A direct flight from Singapore to Bangkok is only 2 hours and 30 minutes long, and there are numerous flights a day. You can take budget airlines such as Jetstar, AirAsia, and Scoot as well as full-fledged carriers including Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.
Thailand isn’t one of the countries that requires a visa for Singapore passport holders. However, there are plans to impose a tourist tax of ฿300 (~S$$11.12) this year although a specific date hasn’t been announced yet.
At the time of writing, the exchange rate of Singapore Dollar to Thai Baht is S$1 to ฿26.98. It is the most common form of payment for visitors and it’s pretty easy to find ATMs around the city. Having said that, it is not recommended that visitors carry too much cash around; you can pay via credit card at most restaurants and malls.
Image adapted from: @louisvuitton via Instagram
You might have visited the Louis Vuitton Cafe in Singapore before but LV The Place Bangkok hits different. Similar to the Singapore branch, LV The Place Bangkok also serves monogrammed coffees and cakes along with cookies (from ฿1,700, ~S$63.40) that come in iconic LV orange-hued boxes.
Image adapted from: myname yk. Via Google Maps, Achi Official via Google Maps
However, what makes LV The Place Bangkok worth the visit is their immersive exhibition and renowned chef Gaggan Anand’s restaurant. Lunch starts from ฿4,000/pax (~S$149.18) while dinner starts from ฿8,000/pax (~S$298.37).
Shopping enthusiasts would be happy to know that the boutique features some store-exclusive pieces that might pique your interest too.
Image credit: @oudivergence via Instagram
If you happen to be looking for Insta-worthy photo spots, head straight to the newly-built One Bangkok. Although some areas are still under construction, there are plenty of retail stores and eateries up and running already. It’s also conveniently connected to Lumphini MRT station via an underground passageway.
Said underpass has a long escalator that’s adorned with pretty, aesthetic ceiling lights where you can snap your pics at. However, please remember to be considerate to visitors and not hog the escalators for a personal photoshoot.
Image credit: @golfzcht via Instagram
Make your way through the underpass to get to the cafes and restaurants for a bite or coffee fix before going about the rest of your day. Once One Bangkok is fully completed, the hub will be home to 3 huge malls – something to keep a lookout for in the future.
Address: Witthayu Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Image credit: @rotjeep via Instagram
Fans of chocolate must make their way to this hidden gem in Bangkok – Tempered Cooperatives. Here’s where you’d be able to find choco bars that are freshly made from cacao beans that come from Thailand itself. The menu features a variety of pastries, croissants, and drinks too.
Image adapted from: @aerng_slash, @rxminn via Instagram
A must-try while you’re there would be their Dirty Croissant (฿265, ~S$9.88), made with 75% dark chocolate cream.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy your drink or dessert, head up to the 3rd level and be greeted by tall glass windows overlooking lush greenery.
Image credit: @lacolbangkok via Instagram
LACOL Bangkok takes “dining with a view” to the next level. Enjoy a meal in your very own bubble – literally and figuratively – with your family, friends, or boo. Needless to say, the glass domes are pretty popular for romantic proposals and celebrating special occasions. So, make sure to call in advance and make a reservation.
If you’re wondering whether it’s been decorated with flowers for a wedding, let us assure you that this is their standard decor all year round. No matter when you go, you’ll be able to capture the ambience for the ‘Gram. We recommend going in the evening, though, so you can catch the sunset against the Bangkok skyline.
Image credit: @lacolbangkok via Instagram
The restaurant serves modern French-Asian cuisine but if you’re not up for splurging on a full meal, you can also grab a seat by the rooftop bar and sip on cocktails while enjoying the same view.
Do note that LACOL Bangkok is pretty strict on its dress code which means no sandals, flip-flops, shorts, or casual wear. There are also private areas for larger gatherings and parties.
Image credit: EmSphere via Facebook
If you haven’t already done so, it’s about time you add EmSphere to your list of shopping malls to drop by when visiting Bangkok. Here’s where you can shop till you drop with over 1,000 retail brands including getting your hands on a Gentlewoman bag.
Check out the graphic art within the mall too.
Image adapted from: @traum_amz, @freak.th via Instagram
Once you’re done with all that shopping, dine at one of the many restaurants. The directory includes well-known establishments like Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, FATBRO, and Shake Shack. As for clothes, look forward to local brands such as Freak Store – a local brand selling street fashion.
Image adapted from: Joe Engel via Google Maps, Klook
Thai Bus Food Tour offers you the best of both worlds – good food and scenic views – all in cooling air-conditioning. Here’s where you can tour around Bangkok in the comfort of a bus while feasting on Michelin Bib Gourmand Thai dishes from the likes of Thipsamai Pad Thai and Mont Nom Sad.
Each ride is 1.5 hours long and operates 4 times daily so you’ve got multiple opportunities to catch it. The bus passes by more than 20 famous Bangkok attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun temple, and the iconic Giant Swing.
Image credits: @kwanjai_se via Instagram
At over 480,000sqm, Benjakitti Forest Park has lots to see and offer – from lush greenery to lakes, ponds, and even man-made “swamps”. To best explore the park, we recommend renting a bike (฿40/hour, ~S$1.48) and embarking on their cycling trails. Or stick to 2 feet instead of 2 wheels with the 5.9km nature trail for those who prefer walking instead.
Image credit: @mol_mashare via Instagram
Although the park has been around for a while, the elevated trails and whimsical lights are new. So if you think Benjakitti Forest Park is pretty in the day, wait till after sunset and witness the park come to life as the skywalk and trails on the ground level light up. Word of advice – you might want to bring some insect repellent to fend off pesky mosquitoes buzzing around.
One of the well-known exhibitions at WOW Park would be their optical illusions.
Image adapted from: @kade_kulsiri, @viewpatinya via Instagram
With over 40 different exhibitions, WOW Park will appeal to kiddos and adults who love all things science-related. Here’s where you can learn more about physics while having fun with the interactive exhibits. Some activities to expect include lying down on a bed of nails, measuring how loud one can scream, and using a thermal camera to generate heat.
Visiting time is restricted to 90 minutes here but it’ll be just enough for you to cover everything and even snap some cool pics. There’s also a 40-minute science show demonstrating science experiments such as turning ice into steam and freezing things to below 0°C.
Parents, don’t worry about not being able to answer your kids’ questions as there will be friendly guides around to impart whatever knowledge they have to visitors.
Image credit: @deeaok.hawaii via Instagram
Those who have visited Bangkok previously might have shopped at JJ Green Night Market before. Unfortunately, it was closed for some time but has since come back as JJ Green 2. Now, situated at a new location, JJ Green 2 is bigger than what it was previously and is even divided into different zones for food and shopping.
Look forward to vintage knick-knacks, handcrafted jewellery, and Thai street food. Something to note is that older cab drivers might not be aware of the new JJ Green 2 market and might drop you off at the old market. So, make sure to specify the location on the map. Fortunately, JJ Green 2 is near its old location, so a couple of turns would be able to get you to the right one.
Address: 61 16 Pracha Chuen Rd, Thung Song Hong, Lak Si, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
Opening hours: Thu-Sun 6pm-12am (Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Contact: +66 83 223 9953
Image adapted from: @yyyyangyang._, @ikapom via Instagram
You’ll find a couple of Mama Cafe branches around Bangkok but the one to check out is at Ratchada. It’s got deck chairs by the river as well as a bench out on the jetty which has become a hotspot for IG snaps. It can get quite warm during the day so dress accordingly as you’ll want to sit outdoors for the best view.
Image adapted from: @yyyyangyang._, @beerjinnawat via Instagram
It might be a small cafe but they sure have a wide selection of drinks for you to choose from. Those who are looking for some mocktails to kickstart their evening can try their Pina~Coff (฿85, ~S$3.17) which has both pineapple and arabica coffee for a caffeine boost. For a stronger shot of caffeine, we’d recommend their Orangeno (฿85, ~S$3.17).
However, if you’re planning to sleep peacefully, , there’s also their caffeine-free Yoghurt Peepo (฿75, ~S$2.80), Mango & Passion Frappe (฿85, ~S$3.17), and Purple Sweet Potato Latte Frappe (฿95, ~S$3.54).
Children can give their Ovaltine Mocha Crunchy Frappe (฿120, ~S$4.48) that’s sprinkled with Ovaltine crumbs on the top a try as well.
This is your time to shine and flex your quick reflexes in front of your family and friends. Rush B Tactical Laser Tag has high-quality equipment, LED lights, and a sound system, making you feel as if you’ve been transported to the gaming realm itself. Not to worry about having to carry your things around while playing as there are lockers available for you to stash your belongings.
However, if laser tag isn’t your thing, there are still a myriad of activities you can enjoy here such as board games, and console games on the PlayStation and Nintendo. Do remember to come in proper footwear such as sports shoes or sneakers.
Book a Rush B Laser Game Experience.
Price: From S$30/set
Address: 125 ถ. สมเด็จพระปิ่นเกล้า Bang Yi Khan, Bang Phlat, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 2.30pm-2.30am | Sat-Sun 12 pm-12.30am
Contact: +66 92 532 3925
Image credit: @wasana_pei_yu_ via Instagram
Take a day out of Bangkok to enjoy the tranquil, peaceful vibes at The Bunny’s Hut Cafe. Located an hour’s drive away, the cafe features really cute cottages and photo ops with props lying around the area.
We won’t blame you for mistaking this for somewhere in New Zealand.
Image adapted from: @9_9muay, @ladiiju_jutatip via Instagram
There are 3 different zones where you can relax and do complementary activities such as fish feeding and boat riding. It’s the perfect opportunity to make a quick getaway from city life.
Another IG-worthy spot in the cafe is where you can snap a pic against a huge moon in the background.
Image credit: รอง.ทรงเกียรติ ธีรานันตชัย via Google Maps
The food and drinks here are pretty affordable as well. Some recommendations would be their Thai Tea (฿79, ~S$2.95), Spicy Glass Noodles Salad (฿169, ~S$6.30), and Steak with Sides (From ฿199, ~S$7.42).
Everyone can say hi to BTS in Bangkok – not the Korean boy band group that you have in mind – but rather, the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) also known as Bangkok Skytrain. A 1-day pass sets you back ฿150 (~S$5.56) which gives you unlimited rides till midnight.
The city also has a subway known as Bangkok MRT which requires a different ticket from at BTS. Between these 2 networks you should be able to get to most of the central areas in the city.
Alternatively, there are always your usual options such as Grab and local taxis if you’ll like a more private option. If you’re looking for something that’s uniquely Bangkok, ride an open-air tuk-tuk where you can bargain for the price. Or the orange motorbikes that can ferry you short distances from train stations to inner, suburban roads where the rates start from ฿10/pax (~S$0.37).
Some neighbourhoods that you might want to look into when planning your trip and booking hotels in Bangkok include:
Book a Bangkok BTS Skytrain one day pass.
Bangkok is truly the place to go for anything and everything – rooftop bars, hip cafes, trendy night markets, cultural attractions, Michelin Star food… you name it. As it is one of the most popular holiday destinations, it’ll be wise to plan and make bookings in advance for the best rates and to avoid disappointment – is this the typical kiasu Singaporean in me speaking?
For more articles on Thailand:
Cover image adapted from: น้องกําไร พาขํา via Google Maps, myname yk. Via Google Maps @lacolbangkok via Instagram, Klook
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