Is it your first time in Bangkok? If yes, you should check out the following sights and activities to experience the best that the Thai capital has to offer. With this list you can be sure to discover the City of Angels from multiple perspectives!

1) Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha & Temple of the Reclining Buddha

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) are royal temples and give evidence to the sophistication of traditional Thai craftsmanship and the importance of Buddhism in this country. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is part of the Grand Palace and enshrines the most venerated Buddha image in Thailand. The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is located next to the Grand Palace and home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Thailand. Moreover, it is considered the first school for traditional Thai massage and is registered in the Memory of the World Programme by UNESCO.

Learn more about these temples in my Bangkok Essential Temple Tour.

2) Visit a Thai shopping mall

Shopping malls in Bangkok know no limits and are among the finest in Southeast Asia. The ICONSIAM is the latest addition among the super malls in the capital and redefines luxury shopping on a whole new level. If you are looking for a more diverse shopping experience, you will find the right spot in the heart of Bangkok. Many malls and boutiques are concentrated in the district of Siam and offer something for every taste and budget. Be sure to check out Siam Paragon and MBK for a good variety of shopping malls.

3) Relax with a Thai massage

A Thai massage naturally belongs to any vacation in Bangkok and is most needed after a long walking day. Whether you prefer the traditional Thai massage, a full body oil massage or simply a foot massage, there is nothing more effective to calm your body and mind. Moreover, the prices are significantly lower than in most places abroad, so you can treat yourself to a relaxing Thai massage more than once!

4) Try out Thai street food

Street food is an essential part of city life in Bangkok. Under the free sky you will not only find simple and traditional meals that Thai people love to eat, but also one of the few Michelin star rated street foods in the world!

5) Explore Bangkok nightlife

What happens in Bangkok stays in Bangkok! Whether you look for a classy jazz bar, a pub or a club with international DJs, you can be sure to spend a good night out in Bangkok. The most popular party scenes are Nana, Thonglor/Ekkamai, Khao San Road, Silom and RCA.

6) Chill on a rooftop

A drink on a rooftop with a nice breeze and a spectacular view of Bangkok is the perfect way to commence or end a night out. High towers are springing up everywhere giving the megacity an impressive skyline.

7) Visit Yaowarat/Chinatown

Bangkok?s Chinatown is deeply rooted in the history of the capital and is a world of its own. It?s busy from morning to night, especially along Yaowarat Road which has given its name to the district. If you like to explore colorful Chinese temples and get a glimpse of everyday life for traders and merchants, you should come visit during the day. However, Yaowarat is famous for fantastic street food, so be sure to stop by again in the evening!

8) Bargain at Chatuchak Market

Your shopping experience in Bangkok would not be complete without a visit at Chatuchak. The weekend market offers almost everything you can think of and is the perfect place to practise your bargaining skills. How to find your way in this huge market? Just let your curiosity guide you!

9) Take a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River used to be the center of all activities in the early days of Bangkok. But it still remains a vital part of the modern city and many thousands of people use it as a mean of transportation every day. Numerous sights and some of the finest hotels are located along the riverbank. A boat ride on the Chao Phraya River is not only fun, but also an appreciated alternative to the congested streets in Bangkok.

10) Visit Asiatique Night Market

I do admit, Asiatique is much like a small Disneyland and the majority of visitors are foreigners. There?s nothing authentic here. Nonetheless, it?s still a fun and cosy place to hang out. You will find a great selection of shops similar to those at Chatuchak, restaurants and evening shows. Asiatique is both popular among the young crowd and families with children.