8 family-friendly activities to do in Bangkok

Are you planning a trip to Bangkok with children and wondering what activities will satisfy both the young and the old? Discover 8 family-friendly activities to enjoy during your stay in Bangkok. Temples, museums, amusement parks, floating markets, tuk-tuk rides, and boat tours… There's something for everyone to love!

1. Take a Tuk-Tuk

A trip to Bangkok wouldn't be complete without a tuk-tuk ride. This iconic mode of transportation will take you everywhere, weaving through the city's traffic. One thing's for sure: riding a tuk-tuk is fun for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest!

Pro tip: Remember to negotiate the fare before getting in and ensure it covers the total number of passengers to avoid scams. Also, don't accept detours from your original destination.

2. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

Two must-see sites in Bangkok for families are the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

The Grand Palace, the royal residence and home to the Emerald Buddha

The Grand Palace is undoubtedly the city's most famous landmark. Built in 1782, it has been the Thai king's official residence for over 150 years. This vast complex includes several temples, pavilions, and beautiful gardens. Don't miss the Wat Phra Kaeo to see the famous and revered Emerald Buddha dating back to the 14th century.

Wat Pho and its famous reclining Buddha

Continue your visit with Wat Pho, located next to the Grand Palace. This magnificent 18th-century royal temple is one of Bangkok's most beautiful temples. It houses, among other treasures, an immense reclining Buddha (46 meters long and 15 meters high), sure to impress the whole family!

Note: Proper attire is required for both sites. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and legs.

3. Visit a floating market

A glimpse into traditional life, Bangkok's floating markets offer a unique experience of commercial exchanges on small boats. Whether exploring on foot along the docks or aboard a traditional Thai boat like a pirogue or long-tail boat, a visit to a floating market will delight the whole family.

Check out our selection of the best floating markets to visit in Bangkok and its surroundings to make your choice.

4. Explore Bangkok by boat and discover the Klongs

Boats are the most economical way to explore Bangkok. Crisscrossed by the Chao Phraya, one of Thailand's most important rivers, the capital offers four public boat lines and a tourist line that stops at major points of interest.

By taking these river taxis and buses, you can not only reach many tourist sites but also discover Bangkok from a different perspective. You'll witness the fascinating lives of canal-side residents with their traditional waterfront homes.

5. Stroll in Lumpini Park

Looking to take a break away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Head to Lumpini Park, Bangkok's largest park. Known as the "green lung" of the Thai capital, this park in the heart of the city offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

You can have a family picnic, paddleboat on the lake, enjoy playgrounds for children, or observe impressive monitor lizards roaming around water features. These dinosaur-like reptiles will amaze your children. Though shy and mostly harmless, it's best to keep your distance.

6. Visit the Children's Discovery Museum in Bangkok

Traveling to Bangkok with young children? Keep them entertained for a few hours at the Children's Discovery Museum in Bangkok. Admission is free, and you'll have access to indoor (air-conditioned) and outdoor play areas. There are interactive activities, an archaeology and dinosaur space, and a water play area.

More information is available on the official Children's Discovery Museum Bangkok website.

7. Visit the Madame Tussauds Museum

If you're with slightly older children, consider a visit to the famous Madame Tussauds museum. This wax museum needs no introduction due to its international fame.

You can take photos with your favorite stars, and your children will find their favorite celebrities and characters like Spiderman, Wolverine, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Cristiano Ronaldo, and many more.

More information is available on the official Madame Tussauds Bangkok website.

8. Cool off in a Water Park

Feeling the heat? Take your whole family to a water park to cool off! Bangkok boasts numerous themed water parks, including:

-Fantasia Lagoon,

-Pororo AquaPark,

-Dream World,

-Siam Park City (water park and amusement park)…

Keep in mind: Most water parks are located on the rooftop terraces of large Bangkok shopping centers, allowing you to combine shopping and amusement parks on the same day!

Also, explore our itinerary for organizing a family trip to Thailand, combining culture, nature, cultural immersion, and beach stays.

Florine Dergelet