Bangkok · Thailand · Things to do
5 things to do in Bangkok with kids
The five best things to do in Bangkok with kids are the Grand Palace, Wat Arun across the river, a floating market, the street food and a trip on the Chao Phraya River. The temples are best early, before the heat, and the river is the easiest way to link them. Keep afternoons free for air conditioning, pools or a mall.
What to do, in order
- 1
See the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a walled complex of golden spires, ornate halls and guardian statues, and the biggest sight in the city. Go when it opens, since it gets crowded and hot by late morning. A strict dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered, for adults and children, and you can rent items at the gate if needed. Ignore strangers who say the palace is closed and offer a tuk-tuk tour instead. Wat Pho, with its giant reclining Buddha, is a short walk away.
- 2
Visit Wat Arun
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya, with a tall central tower decorated with porcelain and shells. A cross-river ferry from the pier near Wat Pho takes a few minutes and is a treat for children. You can climb the steep steps partway up the tower, which gives a view of the river, but they are very steep, so watch younger children closely. Visit in the morning, or around sunset for the best light.
- 3
Ride a floating market
Floating markets are canals lined with boats selling fruit, noodles and snacks. Damnoen Saduak is the best known, a drive of around an hour and a half from the city, though it is very touristy. Amphawa is livelier on weekend afternoons and evenings, and is more local. Both are easier on a guided tour or with a driver. Agree on prices before getting into a boat, and bring cash in small notes. Go early to avoid the heat.
- 4
Eat the street food
Bangkok's street food is among the best in the world, and children usually find something they like: grilled chicken skewers, fried rice, noodles, fresh fruit and mango with sticky rice. Choose busy stalls where food is cooked in front of you. Ask for no chilli, which in Thai is mai phet, and carry wet wipes. Yaowarat, the Chinatown area, comes alive in the evening, and food courts in shopping centres are an easy, air-conditioned alternative.
- 5
See the city from the river
The Chao Phraya River is the city's main highway. The Chao Phraya Express boat runs along it, calling at piers near many major sights, and costs very little. Long-tail boats take you into the narrow canals of Thonburi, where wooden houses stand on stilts. Children enjoy the wind and the sight of passing boats. Avoid boats that approach you at the pier with a high price, and use official ticket booths. A late-afternoon trip is cooler, and the skyline lights up at dusk.
Plan it
- Best time
- November to February is cooler and drier. March to May is very hot, and June to October is the rainy season, with short heavy showers and fewer visitors.
- How long
- Three or four days covers the main sights without rushing. Add a day for a floating market trip.
- Getting around
- The BTS Skytrain and MRT metro are fast and air-conditioned, and ride-hailing apps are cheap. Use the river boats between the old city sights, and avoid driving in rush hour.
Good to know
- Start sightseeing at opening time and rest in the middle of the day.
- Carry a light scarf or cover-up in your bag, since temples enforce dress rules.
- Drink bottled water and use hand sanitiser before street food.
Frequently asked
Is Bangkok good for kids? +
Yes, with planning. Boats, markets, food and temples hold their interest. Heat, traffic and crowds are the challenges, so plan early starts, afternoon rests and use the river and Skytrain.
What should you wear to the Grand Palace? +
Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid see-through or tight clothing. Closed shoes are best. This applies to children too, and you can rent coverings at the entrance if you arrive unprepared.
Is Bangkok street food safe for children? +
Generally yes if you choose busy stalls with fresh, hot food. Skip raw items if your child has a sensitive stomach, avoid ice from unknown sources, and ask for no chilli.
What is the best time to visit Bangkok? +
November to February, when it is drier and a little cooler. March to May is the hottest, and the rainy season from June to October is hot and humid but quieter, with showers mostly in the afternoon.
