You might be surprised to discover there is like a million and one things to do in Bangkok with kids. From fascinating temples, cruises down the rivers and canals, super cool kids’ attractions and loads more. One thing is for sure, you won’t find yourself wondering what to do in Bangkok with kids.
It’s been ages since I have been to Bangkok, but I recently visited and was quickly reminded how much I just love this big bustling city. There is always something happening on every street corner, ensuring that there is never a dull moment in Bangkok. And the food!!!!
Most people start their Thailand itinerary in Bangkok, so if you have a Bangkok family trip coming up and looking for the best places to visit in Bangkok with family, you will love this guide. This kid-friendly Bangkok guide covers all you need to know about the best kids’ activities in Bangkok and the best Bangkok attractions for kids. As well as covering off on the top places to visit in Bangkok for kids; this guide includes tips on where to stay in Bangkok with family and how to get from the airport to Bangkok.
So that you have a comprehensive list of all of the best things to do in Bangkok with family; I’ve included some of the attractions I visited on my recent trip as well as some of the Bangkok attractions for family that I have visited during previous trips.
Now the tricky part for you is going to be deciding which of the Bangkok family attractions make it to your shortlist!
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Looking for accommodation in Bangkok for the family? Click here for our full guide on where to stay in Bangkok with kids.
The Best Things to do in Bangkok with Kids
Throughout this guide, I have tried to provide as much information as possible to make your planning easier, including locations, opening hours and ticket prices.
You will note that for many of the places for kids in Bangkok I often recommend you purchase your tickets in advance from Klook. Yes, I will receive a small commission if you do purchase from Klook – but as you will see in most cases, you will save yourself a stack of cash if you book through them. I use them myself to book tickets – sometimes I have been known to sit outside the ticket booth of an attraction and book tickets on my phone from Klook as they are sooooo much cheaper.
1. Cruise the Chao Phraya River on the Hop on Hop off Boat
One of the must-dos during your Bangkok family holiday is to take a cruise down the Chao Phraya River. The Chao Phraya River, also known as the River of Kings and flows through the heart of Bangkok. Cruising the Chao Phraya River is so interesting as on route you see a real combination of the old Bangkok mixed with the super modern Bangkok. On the river, you’ll see little long boats puttering along right next to the latest tourist boats and old shanty homes and massive modern skyscrapers side by side. ⠀
There are several different cruises you can along the river, but one I totally recommend in Bangkok for kids & families is the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat. This is a hop on hop off boat, so as well as cruising the river, it also provides you with an easy (and cheap) way to get around seeing the various Bangkok tourist attractions for family. There are nine different stops, and you can start your cruise at any of them. I’ve listed the various piers below as well as some of the tourist attractions you may like to see at each stop:
- Sathorn Pier (BTS Taksin Bridge Station): Asiatique (has its open pier stop between during the night)& Wat Yannawa
- ICONSIAM Pier: ICONSIAM Shopping Mall
- Lhong 1919 Pier
- Ratchawongse Pier: Chinatown, Sampeng Market, Wat Mangkon Kamalawa& Yaowarat
- Pak Klong Taladd Pier: Flower Market
- Wat Arun Pier: Wat Arun (the temple of Dawn)
- Tha Maharaj Pier: Grand Palace, Wat Pra Kaew & Wat Pho
- Thonbury Railway Pier: Royal Barge National Museum& Siriraj Phimukhsthan Museum
- Phra Arthit Pier: Shopping at Khao San Road
Price: A one-day river or night pass costs 200 Baht (approx. $10 AUD). You can purchase a combined day and night river pass for 300 Baht (approx. $15 AUD). Alternatively, can purchase discounted tickets through Klook with day river or night passes being 165 Baht and combined tickets being 235 Baht per person. Click here to purchase your discounted tickets.
Hours: A day pass operates between 9 am and 6 pm, while a night pass operates between 3 pm and 9 pm. Boats depart from each pier every 30 minutes.
2. Visit the Wat Arun – the Temple of Dawn
Wat Arun (also called the Temple of Dawn), is a stunning Buddhist temple and is one of the most beautiful and most visited attractions in Bangkok. The temple was built in the 17th century and is made up of numerous pagodas all decorated with millions of pieces of coloured tiles. The central pagoda is 82 metres high and is surrounded by four smaller pagodas.
Visitors can walk around the towers via the various stairs. Be sure to walk around close wise as anti-clockwise is considered bad luck.
We went in the middle of the day, and it was super busy, but it’s supposedly just stunning at dawn or sunset. ⠀
Allow around 30 to 50 minutes to visit Wat Arun.
Price: Entry is 50 baht per person.
Opening Hours: Daily between 8.30 am to 5.30 pm
Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem
3. Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Right across the river from Wat Arun is the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, one of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok. This popular tourist attraction is known not only for its stunning buildings but also its rich history.
The Grand Palace has been home to many Thai kings and consists of several impressive buildings with various styles of architecture. Kids will love walking around the various halls, buildings and gardens (as kings once did) checking out the golden roofs, colourful and shiny decorations and mesmerising statues of mythical creatures and various gods.
Wat Phra Kaew is located right next to the Grand Palace and is considered the most beautiful and important Buddhist temples in Thailand. Here you will find the Emerald Buddha, an image carved from a single block of jade.
Grand Palace is one of the most popular and best temples in Bangkok to visit.
Price: 500 baht per person
Opening Hours: Daily between 8.30 am to 3.30 pm
Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Old City (Rattanakosin)
4. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Located a short walk from the Grand Palace is Wat Pho or better known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Founded in the 16th century, this temple is the oldest and biggest temple in the city and also has the largest number of pagodas.
Most people come to Wat Pho to see the gigantic 46 metres long and 15 metres high Reclining Buddha, however the temple is also well known for traditional massage, so factor extra time in for this.
Price: 200 baht per person, children under 120 cms free
Opening Hours: Daily between 9.30 am to 4 pm
Location: Maharat Road
5. Museum Siam
If you’re looking for a good children’s museum, Bangkok has; then check out the Museum Siam. The Museum Siam is not your everyday old-fashioned dusty museum – this Museum does a fantastic job of catching the kids’ attention, via hands-on exhibits. The Museum is spread out over 3 floors and in an interactive way it teaches visitors about the Thai people, their culture and history.
Written and audio materials are in English as well as Thai, and you can also hire audio guides if you like. The Museum Sian is located right by Wat Pho so worth visiting both attractions on the same day.
Price: Entry is 200 baht per adult (approx. $10 AUD) and 100 baht per child (approx. $5)
Opening Hours: Daily between 10 am and 6 pm – except closed Mondays
Location: Sanam Chai Road
6. Flower Markets – Pak Khlong Talat
For a colourful experience, be sure to stop by Pak Klong Talat – the Bangkok flower markets. This is the biggest wholesale market of fresh flowers in Bangkok.
Families will love exploring the colourful stalls, filled to the brim with not only a huge range of flowers but also colourful fruits and vegetables too. It’s pretty interesting just watching the busy vendors rush by with their carts of produce as wholesalers bring in truckloads of freshly cut flowers.
The Flower Market is on the river, close to Wat Pho.
Price: Entry is free
Opening Hours: 24 hours – 7 days a week
Location: Chak Phet Road
7. Sampheng Markets
The Sampheng markets take place over several narrow laneways which often become overcrowded with vendors and tourists. But the hectic nature of these markets just adds to the experience – plus everything is pretty cheap here. Here you will find clothes, bags, hats, sarongs, DVDs, shoes, sunglasses, toys, jewellery – you name it you’ll find it here.
The Sampheng Markets are located in Chinatown – so why not go shopping late afternoon and then head into Chinatown for some yummy street food for dinner.
It does sometimes get super-hot down the narrow laneways so ensure you have plenty of water on hand for the kids.
Price: Entry is free
Opening Hours: Daily between 12 am and 5.30 pm and 8.30pm to 12 am.
Location: Sampeng Lane, Soi Wanit 1, Chinatown
8. Eats Street Food in Yaowarat Street Chinatown
For families that love to eat – without a doubt, one of the must Bangkok things to do with kids is to visit Yaowarat Street in Chinatown and try out as much food as you can from the street stalls. If you’re living in Bangkok even better because you could eat something different pretty much every night!
Yaowarat Street comes alive from around 6 pm every night, with little street stalls popping up all over the side streets. The area is super popular with the street absolutely packed with pedestrians.
You might even be surprised to learn that some of these street stalls have a Michelin star. So you didn’t think you could afford to take the family to a Michelin star dinner – well think again because in Chinatown street food ranges in price from around 40 to 60 baht ($2-$3 AUD) a plate.
Price: Depends on what you buy
Opening Hours: from 6 pm daily
Location: Yaowarat Road, Chinatown
9. Shopping on Khao San Road
While typically known as backpacker’s paradise, this is a great spot to bring the kids for some cheap shopping, great places to eat and to shout everyone in the family a massage.
I know most people might think it’s strange recommending Khao San Road as one of the Bangkok places to visit with family, but I think it has a really fun vibe, that the whole family will love. Sure night times probably get a bit rowdy, but during the day and early evening, it’s worthwhile coming with the kids.
10. Dine at Asiatique, Riverside Night Food Market
A visit to Asiatique is a must when it comes to family activities in Bangkok. Asiatique is a large open-air shopping mall, and by night it’s a fantastic place to go for its night food markets. Just don’t be thinking typical Thai street food stalls – this is a fairly fancy night market – but still great fun if you’re looking for things for kids to do in Bangkok.
There’s usually a range of entertainment on offer too including ladyboy cabaret and Thai puppet performances. Also the kids will love having a ride on the huge Ferris wheel which is over 60 metres high from which you get a fantastic panoramic view across the Chao Phraya River and Asiatique.
Getting here is half the fun too. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and from here there is a free shuttle boat to get you to Asiatique.
Price: Entry to the markets is free
Opening Hours: Daily between 4 pm to 12 am
Location: Chareonkrung Soi 74-76
11. Take a Bird’s Eye View of Bangkok from the Mahanakhan Skywalk
During my recent visit to Bangkok, one of the highlights for me was checking out Bangkok’s skyline from the Mahanakhan Skywalk. At 314 metres this is Thailand’s highest observation deck which offers 360-degree panoramic views across the city skyline from a range of different viewing points. This is definitely one of the places to see in Bangkok with family!
There’s plenty of ways to experience the view – either from the safety of the inside observatory on the 74th floor or on the 78th floor outside deck. The outside deck has a super cool bar (which would have to be one of the coolest skybars Bangkok has!), a glass tray you can walk across, and you can even climb the peak for the best viewpoint. ⠀
You can visit the observation deck day or night. Can’t you just imagine sitting in one of these comfy chairs at night, drink in hand admiring that view?
Price: To access all levels tickets are 1050 BAHT (approx. $50.20 AUD) per adult and 250 THB per child (approx. $12 AUD), children under 3 are free. For discounted tickets buy online from Klook, which are $33 per adult and $12 per child – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 11 pm.
Location: King Power MahaNakhon Tower, 114 Narathiwas Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok
12. Visit John Thompson’s House
For the history buffs or those that just enjoy stunning Thai architecture then a visit to Jim Thompson is worthwhile. If you’re not sure who Jim Thompson is, he was an American architect and was sent to Bangkok as a military officer. He remained in Bangkok after his service and revived the old hand weaving of Thai silk craft. Thanks to Mr Thompson Thai Silk quickly became recognised across the world.
Also as he was an architect, he constructed a stunning home in Bangkok. He built his home by combining six teak buildings which were at least two centuries old. The end result is a gorgeous building showcasing the very best of traditional Thai architecture, which is also surrounded by beautiful lush gardens.
The home is now a living museum where visitors can explore his home as well as learn more about the old craft of Thai silk weaving.
The kids probably won’t find this place overly exciting, but Mum and Dad likely will.
Price: 200 baht per person (approximately $10 AUD).
Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm
Location: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Ram 1 Road, Bangkok
13. Cruise the Canals of Thonburi
One of the best things to do in Bangkok with children is to take a tour cruising the canals – The Venice of the East. This is a great way to get a glimpse into the lives of the local people along the water’s edge. You will cruise past traditional stilted wooden homes, busy markets, Thai temples and people going about their day to day lives doing things such as cooking, washing and housekeeping.
There is a range of different tour options available and cruises usually last for around 1 hour.
14. Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets
If you enjoy the cruise around the canals, why not take the kids a little further and visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets. I personally think a visit to the Damnoen Saduak floating markets is an absolute must during your Bangkok trip. The Damnoen Saduak markets are the largest and most popular markets in Bangkok.
Honestly, these markets have to be seen to be believed! The kids and you will be amazed as hundreds of vendors float past in their longboats filled to the brim with a range of produce including fruit, vegetables, souvenirs and more. Some of the little longboats are even basic floating kitchens, serving up a variety of delicious Thai food.
On these tours, you will also get the opportunity to cruise the quieter narrow canals and peek into the day to day lives of the local Thai people. There is a range of different tours to choose from. Some options include selecting a half-day tour which just takes you to the floating markets, or take a full-day tour which also stops at other markets including the Maeklong Railway Market (where the train passes down the middle) and the Amphawa
Price: Entry to the markets is free, but cruise tours vary in price.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
Location: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi
15. Siam Niramit
One of the best things to do in Bangkok with family is to take everyone to see Siam Niramit – one of the world’s largest stage show productions. The stage is so gigantic that it is in fact listed in the Guinness Book of World Records! Siam Niramit has over 150 dancers and musicians, 500 colourful costumes, special effects and traditional dancing and singing.
While the show starts at 8 pm, there is plenty of pre-show entertainment from 5 pm, as well as the option to have a buffet dinner too. Before the show visit a traditional Thai Village, see dance performances and more.
Opening Hours: Show starts at 8 pm, but dinner and pre entertainment starts at 5 pm.
Location: 19 Tiamruammit Road, HuayKwang, Bangkok
Price: Tickets start at 1500 THB (approx. $72 AUD) for the show only or 1900 THB (approx. $91 AUD) including dinner. For discounted tickets buy online from Klook which are $57.39 for the show only or $69.35, including dinner – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
16. Porop AquaPark
When it’s super-hot and you’re wondering what to do with kids in Bangkok – take them to Porop AquaPark.
Porop AquaPark is a waterpark located on the rooftop of the CentralPlaza Bangng Shopping Mall and has plenty to keep kids of all ages occupied. There is a range of waterslides, pools, interactive water playgrounds and more. The perfect spot for kids’ entertainment in Bangkok!
Given its location on the rooftop of a shopping mall, you can easily combine a day of shopping with a day of fun at the water park. The perfect combination for one of those hot and soupy Bangkok days.
To get to Porop Aquapark take the BTS (Skytrain) to BTS Udomsuk Station, then, take Central Plaza Bangna Shuttle Bus or Taxi to CentralPlaza Bangna. Porop Aquapark is on the 6th floor.
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.30 to 7 pm and Weekends 10 am to 7 pm.
Location: 585 Bang Na-Trat Rd, Khwaeng Bang Na, Khet Bang Na, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
Price: Adults are 400 THB (approximately $19.15 AUD) and children are 280 THB (approximately $13.40 AUD), kids under 90cm are free. For discounted tickets buy online from Klook, which are $13.39 AUD for adults and $8.60 AUD per child – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
17. Fantasia Lagoon Water Park
Another water park option for the kids is Fantasia Lagoon, which is located on the rooftop of the Mall Bangkae. Like Porop, this water park has plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. The attractions are split over different themed zones, each offering a range of waterslides, pools, waterfalls, whirlpools and more.
Also like Porop, given the water park is located on top of a shopping mall you can combine a day of water fun with some shopping too.
Location: 275 Moo 1 Phetkasem Rd, | The Mall Bangkae, Bangkok
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.30 am to 8 pm, and weekends 10 am to 8 pm.
Price: 220 THB for adults and 130 THB for kids.
18. Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
Another one of the great Bangkok children attractions is the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World. Said to be the largest aquarium not only in Thailand but in South East Asia. Here you will find over 400 water species and over 30,000 fish on display.
There are various feeding shows on during the day, which is not to be missed. These include otter feeding, penguin feeding as well as shark feeding.
The aquarium is located in Siam Paragon Shopping Centre (one of the largest shopping centres in Asia) which has other great Bangkok children’s activities (Madame Tussauds and Kidszania), so it’s probably well worth coming early and planning on spending the entire day here.
To get to Sea Life, take Exit 5 from the BTS Siam Station, which provides direct access to Siam Paragon.
Location: Levels B1-B2 in Siam Paragon Shopping Centre
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 9 pm.
Price: Adults are 1090 THB (approximately $52.10 AUD) and children are 890 THB (approximately $42.55 AUD), kids under 3 are free. For discounted tickets buy online from Klook, which are $33.49 AUD for adults and $31.09 AUD per child – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
19. Kidzania
When it comes to kids’ friendly places in Bangkok, Kidzania has to be the number one thing to do. This is such a cool place for kids, particularly the younger ones. Here at Kidzania kids get to learn through role-playing in a range of different real-life occupations.
Kidszania is essentially a miniature city with shops, banks, roads, vehicles and a range of other establishments. The kids take on various roles within the town such as shop assistants, doctors, chefs, detectives and more. In fact, there are over 80 different roles they play.
Be prepared to spend the entire day here – there is plenty to do, and this is not an hour or two activity.
Location: 5th floor – Siam Paragon Shopping Centre
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 am to 5 pm, and weekends 10.30 am to 8.30pm.
Price: Adults are 560 THB (approximately $26.77 AUD), children 4-14 are 950 THB (approximately $45.410 AUD), toddlers are 590 THB (approximately $28.20 AUD) and kids under 2 are free. For slightly discounted tickets buy online from Klook which are $26.05 AUD for adults, $43.05 AUD for children (4-14), $28.69 for toddlers. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
20. Shop at the Chatuchak Weekend Market
Where to go in Bangkok with kids who are keen to spend their pocket money? Why the Chatuchak Weekend Market of course. Said to be the largest market in Thailand, here you will find over 15,000 stalls across 27 different sections. These markets pretty much sell everything you can think off. There is plenty of clothing, jewellery, handicrafts and more.
Just know that this place can get crazy busy!! Supposedly a typical weekend sees no less than 200,000 shoppers.
To get to Chatuchak Weekend Markets, take the Skytrain (BTS) or MRT to Mo Chit station and follow the crowd to the entrance.
Opening Hours: Weekends Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 6 pm and Fridays at 6 pm to 12 am.
Location: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok
Price: Entry to the markets is free.
21. MBK Shopping Centre
In case you haven’t guessed it, there are loads of shopping malls in Bangkok, so if the busy markets seem too much for you, then you always head inside the air-conditioned malls.
While it may no longer be the newest or biggest shopping centre in Bangkok, one of the great places to shop is the legendary MBK Shopping Centre. Here you will find around 2000 shops across 8 different levels. I have well-spent hundreds of dollars here over the years of visiting Bangkok.
MBK is a great shopping centre for families after a bargain. You won’t find fancy name brands here, but you will find a stack of small independent vendors as well as some bigger shops.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
Location: Pathumwan Intersection, diagonally opposite Siam Discovery Centre
22. Shop at Terminal 21
An interesting shopping centre to check out is Terminal 21. I say interesting because this shopping mall is set up to look like an airport and once you’re inside each floor is dedicated to a different city. You can visit London, Tokyo, Paris, San Francisco, Rome and more. The kids will be amused spotting the various landmarks from around the world.
Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 10 pm
Location: Sukhumvit Road (between Soi 19 and 21)
23. Dream World
Located an hour drive outside the city, a day at Dream World is one of the fun family things to do in Bangkok. This theme park is spread out over 25 hectares and split into several zones including Dream World Plaza, Dream Gardens, Fantasy Land and Adventure Land. There are over 40 different rides and attractions suitable for kids of all ages.
Rides here include thrill rides such as the Tornado and Sky Coaster or family fun rides such as Bump Cars and the Speedy Mouse Train. There is also a range of shows including the Colours of the World Parade and the Hollywood Action stunt show.
For an additional entry fee, you can also check out Snow Town where you can actually go sledging in the snow or cool down at the Water Park.
To get to Dream World, it’s best to take a taxi, or you can arrange private transfers here.
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 am to 5 pm and Weekends 10 am to 7 pm.
Location: 62 Moo 1, Rungsit-Ongkarak Road (Kilometre 7th), Bueng Yitho, Thanyaburi.
Price: Tickets are 1125 THB (approximately $53.77 AUD). For discounted tickets buy online from Klook which are $33.49 AUD each – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
24. Siam Park City
If one theme park is not enough for your kids, then Siam Park City is another one to try out. Siam Park City may also be a better option than Dream World as it is a little closer to Bangkok City and also cheaper.
Siam Park City, Southeast Asia’s oldest amusement park, is a combination of rides and water park. It has some pretty impressive titles to its name including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster, 7-stories water slides which were once among the tallest in the world’s as well as the world’s largest wave pool.
The amusement park section has over 40 rides including thrill rides such as the Vortex and Giant Drop and more family-friendly rides like the Dinosaur Land Adventure and the Double Carousel.
To get to this kids place in Bangkok, it’s best to take a taxi, or you can arrange private transfers here.
Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 6 pm
Location: 203 Suan Siam Rd., Kannayao, Bangkok 10230
Price: Tickets are 900 THB (approximately $43 AUD), children 101 cm are free. For discounted tickets buy online from Klook, which are $28.69 AUD – which is a pretty great saving. Click here to buy your discounted tickets now.
25. Hajime Robot Restaurant
Now this place looks like a lot of fun for the kids! How much will the kids love being served by real-life robots? This is a Japanese restaurant, where you order your food from a tablet at your table and robots glide over a track to serve you your food.
Location: Monopoly Park, Rama3 Road between Soi61 and Soi 63, Bangkok
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm
26. Unicorn Café
This place is one that Myla would go nuts for a café entirely dedicated to Unicorns! Of course all the food here is themed around unicorns (aka colourful and sugary) and there is plenty of things for your kids to beg you to buy for them too. You can even rent a unicorn onesie while you eat your rainbow coloured delights. While it might not be Mum and Dad’s idea of a great café, no doubt your little unicorn.
Location: 44/1 Soi Sathon 8, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm to 8 pm.
27. Take a day trip to the Ancient Ruins of Ayutthaya
If you have a full day to spare, a day trip to the Ayutthaya is well worth it. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and use to be the capital of Thailand before the Burmese destroyed it in 1767. While much of the city is long gone, there are still remnants of the ancient city in the form of old Buddhist temples, stairways and statues.⠀⠀
It’s certainly pretty fascinating wandering around the ancient ruins, and if you have ever been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, you will note that it has a similar feel but on a smaller scale.⠀Like in Cambodia, the ancient ruins are well spread out, and you will benefit from having transport to take you between each site as well as having a tour guide with you to explain each site.
Something a bit different you might like to check out while you’re in Ayutthaya is taking the kids to Candy Floss Street where they can try Roti Sai Mai. This is basically Thai fairy floss wrapped in a crepe. The kids will love seeing the fairy floss line the street as well as trying these famous Ayutthaya sweets. I know they sound a bit gross, but I actually quite like them.
You can reach Ayutthaya on your own by taking a 2-hour train ride and then either getting around the sites by tuk-tuk or bicycle. However, I think it’s best to take an organised day tour as they will take care of the transport to and from Bangkok as well as while in Ayutthaya.
Here are some tours to consider:
- Ancient Ayutthaya Tour: Spend the day exploring the best sites in Ayutthaya and have lunch at the floating markets as well as cruise the canals. Click here for more information.
- Ancient Ayutthaya Tour with Sunset cruise: As above, but this tour also includes a sunset cruise past some of the old temples. Click here for more information.
28. Take a Day Trip to Kanchanaburi
Another day trip well worth the effort is visiting Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi is the place where prisoners of war were exploited under the Japanese during WWII, building the Death Railway. Other landmarks in the area include the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Allied War Cemetery.
Another place well worth a visit is the JEATH War Museum. Located right by the River Kwai Bridge, here you will learn more about the construction of the Death Railway.
For a day trip, it’s best to take an organised tour. There are several options, like this one by AK Travel.
Getting Around Bangkok
From the Airport to Bangkok City
Bangkok is served by two international airports, Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi, so it’s essential to know which airport you are arriving in before arranging your transport to the city.
Don Mueang International Airport
Don Mueang International Airport is around 24 km from the city centre, and the easiest way to get to and from here is via taxi. The cost is somewhere between 350 to 600 THB (which includes tolls and airport charge) depending upon the traffic (approximately $17 – $29 AUD). You don’t need to haggle or anything, just follow the signs to the taxi rank -ignoring those people who offer you a taxi. Ensure you have some change for the driver because you will need to pay the tolls as you go.
If you prefer to have someone waiting for you and your family, you can also prearrange private transfers. These aren’t too expensive, and you don’t have to worry as you’ll have something waiting for you as soon as you land. Transfers are around $27.25 AUD for a family – click here for more info.
You can take public transport, but it will be long and really not worth the hassle given the price of a taxi or private transfers.
Suvarnabhumi International Airport
For Suvarnabhumi (also referred to as Bangkok Airport), there are a few options.
The cheapest option is to take the Airport Rail Link into the city. From the airport, you can take the train to Phayathai where you can change to the Skytrain (45 THB) or take it Makkasan where you can change to the MRT (35 THB). The cost is around $2 AUD whichever station you get off. Buy your ticket at the station, or you can buy in advance online here. Once you reach Bangkok either take a local train to your hotel or taxi.
With your family in tow, the easiest way to get to and from the airport is via taxi. The cost is somewhere between 300 to 450 THB (which includes tolls and airport charge) depending upon the traffic (approximately $14 – $22 AUD). You don’t need to haggle or anything, just follow the signs to the taxi rank -ignoring those people who offer you a taxi. Ensure you have some change for the driver because you will need to pay the tolls as you go.
If you prefer to have someone waiting for you and your family, you can also prearrange private transfers. These aren’t too expensive, and you don’t have to worry as you’ll have something waiting for you as soon as you land. Transfers are around $27.25 for a family – click here for more info.
In Bangkok
Getting around Thailand, and Bangkok, in particular, is relatively easy. While you’re in Bangkok you will find that to get around, you will use a combination of train, taxi and walking.
Trains
Bangkok has two different train providers, which are the Skytrain (BTS) or the subway (MRT). See the map here.
The Skytrain is an elevated train that runs through the city. The system has 35 different stations across two lines – the Sukhumvit line (northwards and eastwards Mo Chit to Samrong) and the Silom Line (National Stadium to Bang Wa). The trains are relatively easy to use and come very frequently.
Skytrain tickets start at 16 THB for one station to a maximum of 59 THB. Or you can purchase a one-day pass for 140 THB or a Rabbit Card for 200 THB which comes with 100 THB credit stored on the card. You can then top up these cards as you go.
Kids under 90cm travel for free, there is no discount for older children. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at the stations.
The Subway also has 18 stations from Hua Lamphong to Bang Sue and operates between 6 am to 12 am, with trains running every 5-7 mins. Instead of tickets, you get a black token on the subway. Tokens are 16 THB for one station to a maximum of 42 THB and can be purchased at vending machines at the stations. Children’s tokens start at 7 THB up to 20 THB.
The Skytrain and Subway interchange at Silom and Asoke station. Unfortunately, you will need separate tickets for each system as the tickets are incompatible with each other.
Taxis / Grab / Tuk Tuks
Taxis are super easy and cheap to use in Bangkok. Official taxis are all metered – just look for a taxi with a “taxi meter” on the roof.
The other option is GRAB, which is Bangkok’s ride-sharing app like Uber in other places. Make sure you download this app on your phone.
You can also use tuk-tuks, which are three-wheeled taxis without meters. So you will need to negotiate these fares before your trip.
Just note that Bangkok traffic can be horrendous, and a short distance can end up taking hours. It’s often best to use the train or walk where possible.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Bangkok is a huge place with lots of areas to stay in. You can choose from super-budget accommodation to great value self-contained places. Below I have listed 3 different places I think are great for families.
1. The Secret Service Hostel
The Secret Service Hostel is located only 350m from the lively backpacker area of Khao San Road and is a great little hostel, perfect for families looking for a budget family hotel Bangkok offers which is also comfortable and in a central location.
Right outside your doorstep, you are surrounded by cheap places to eat and shop as well as massage parlours galore. However inside you have your own little family oasis. Family suites are cozy with two sets of bunk beds as well as a TV, free WIFI, air conditioning and your own private bathroom. The hostel also has a bar and restaurant onsite.
While there is no train line that services this area, you’ll never have a problem finding a taxi or tuk tuk. Plus you are also only 800 metres from the Phra Arthit ferry stop which is perfect for seeing the various attractions along the river.
If you’re just looking for a Bangkok budget hotel for family, the Secret Service Hostel is well worth considering.
Click here to check availability and current pricing.
2. Shama Lakeview Asoke Hotel
If budget is not your concern, but rather you like to have a spacious, modern self-contained apartment for your family trip to Bangkok, then the best family hotel in Bangkok for you is the Shama Lakeview Asoke Hotel.
This hotel is located close to both a BTS and MRT station, both being only a short walk away from the hotel. But if the kids don’t want to walk, the hotel offer a free tuk tuk service to get you there. From these stations you can get wherever you want to go in Bangkok. The hotel is also surrounded by places to eat, supermarkets, massage parlours and the Terminal 21 Shopping Mall is close by too.
Accommodation options are either a studio or one, two- or three-bedroom apartments. So, no matter what size your family is there is the perfect accommodation for you. All rooms are fully self-contained with a kitchen, living room and dining room. Rooms also come with free wifi, TV and air conditioning. The hotel also features a massive swimming pool, gym and onsite there is a Coffee Club too.
While this is the most expensive suggestion in this post, if you’re the sort of family that likes their own space as well as being able to prepare meals, the Shama Lakeview Asoke Hotel is the best family hotel Bangkok has for you.
Click here to check availability and current pricing.
3. Patumwan House
If you’re into shopping, then the best area to stay in Bangkok for family is in Siam, where all the gigantic shopping Malls are. A great hotel in this area is the Patumwan House, in fact even if you’re not really into shopping, the Patumwan House is perfect as it’s close to places to eat, local attractions and super close to the train stations.
Within walking distance from this hotel, you have MBK, Sian Discovery, Siam Paragon and Central World. Why you need that many huge shopping malls all together – who knows – but its all here in Bangkok. The National Stadium BTS station is also only a 5-minute walk away – so you can easily get to all the Bangkok attractions.
Family rooms at the Patumwan House include two bedrooms, the main with a double bed and the other bedroom with two single beds. There is also a fully equipped kitchen which is fantastic for preparing some meals. Rooms also include a TV, air conditioning, dining room, living room and free WIFI.
For families wanting affordable accommodation in the heart of Bangkok, then Patumwan House is one to consider.
Click here to check availability and current pricing.
Stay Connected in Bangkok
To help you get around while in Bangkok, you must have WIFI. Whatever you do don’t use your SIM from home because if you do, you will end up with a crazy bill when you get home.
Whenever we travel, I either get a local SIM card or pocket WIIFI. A SIM is good when it’s just me, but I like pocket WIFI when we all travel as everyone can log into it with their devices. Either is pretty cheap, for example, a SIM card with unlimited data and calls for 8 days is around $6.29 AUD or $8.60 AUD per day for the pocket WIFI. You can purchase on arrival at the airport or pre-order and pick up when you arrive.
Click here for more information about the SIM card.
Click here for more information about the pocket WIFI.
During my recent trip to Bangkok, I was hosted by Thailand Tourism Authority and also had Air Asia fly me over – thank you to both organisations. However, as usual, the opinions expressed within this post are entirely my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any bookings you may make, but they do not incur any extra cost to you.
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