Explore Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River winds past Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, from the majestic Grand Palace and sacred Wat Arun to bustling floating markets and lively riverside neighborhoods. In this guide, you’ll find the best stops to visit, experiences to try and tips for making the most of your river adventure.

Let us help you craft a memorable Bangkok journey that blends culture, history and scenic charm - all starting along the Chao Phraya River with Hanoi Voyages.

Top Bangkok’s attractions along the Chao Phraya River

Along the Chao Phraya River, visitors can discover Bangkok’s top attractions such as The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho, Asiatique the Riverfront, floating markets near the river and IconSiam. Let’s find out the details!

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

Among the most iconic Bangkok attractions along Chao Phraya, the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew stands as a symbol of Thailand’s royal heritage. This magnificent complex captivates visitors with its glittering temples, golden spires and the sacred Emerald Buddha. A stroll through its grand halls and intricately adorned courtyards offers a memorable glimpse into the country’s cultural and historical heart.

NOTE: The palace opens at 8:30 AM and gets crowded quickly, so you should arrive early for more comfortable

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

A highlight of Bangkok attractions along Chao Phraya, Wat Arun captivates with its majestic central prang covered in intricate porcelain mosaics. Whether glowing in the morning light or illuminated at sunset, it offers one of Bangkok’s most stunning riverfront views. Climbing its steep steps rewards visitors with sweeping panoramas of the Chao Phraya River and the city beyond.

Helpful information for tourists:

• Opening hour: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Ticket prices: 200 THB (~$6) per person for foreigners

Wat Pho

Famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue covered in gold leaf, Wat Pho is one of the most remarkable Bangkok attractions along Chao Phraya. The temple is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, offering visitors a chance to relax after exploring its vast grounds. With beautifully decorated pavilions, intricate murals and peaceful courtyards, Wat Pho provides both a cultural and spiritual retreat right by the river.

Helpful information for travelers:

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM

• Entrance fee: 300 THB (~$9.3) per person for foreigners

Asiatique the Riverfront

Blending a vibrant night market with a modern shopping complex in Bangkok, Asiatique the Riverfront is a must-visit destination along the Chao Phraya River. Housed in renovated warehouses, it features over 1,500 boutiques, restaurants and cafes, offering everything from fashion and handicrafts to Thai street food. 

Must-do activities: enjoy live cultural performances, ride the iconic Ferris wheel for panoramic river views and shop for unique souvenirs. 

Floating markets near the river

A visit to the Chao Phraya River area isn’t complete without exploring its nearby floating markets, where colorful boats, fragrant street food and local life create a uniquely Thai experience.

• Taling Chan Floating Market 

• Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market 

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

• Amphawa Floating Market 

You can also refer: Top 5 must-experience floating markets around Bangkok

IconSiam

As one of the most luxurious shopping and lifestyle complexes along the Chao Phraya River, IconSiam offers a world-class experience with over 500 shops, high-end brands and diverse dining options. The mall’s highlights include SookSiam, an indoor market showcasing regional Thai food and crafts and an impressive riverside promenade perfect for evening strolls. 

How to plan your perfect Chao Phraya River itinerary?

To create the ideal Chao Phraya itinerary, start by combining iconic cultural landmarks with unique riverside experiences. If you have experience in Bangkok along the Chao Phraya river one day, you can refer the itinerary below

Morning Start at Wat Pho to admire the Reclining Buddha. Visit The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew to explore royal architecture and the Emerald Buddha. Cross the river to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) for stunning views.
Afternoon Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant such as The Deck by Arun Residence or Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar. Explore a nearby floating market like Khlong Lat Mayom or Taling Chan. Take a Chao Phraya River cruise to see Bangkok’s riverside life from the water.
Evening Shop and relax at IconSiam while enjoying the riverside promenade. Join a dinner cruise for Thai cuisine and illuminated city views. End the day with a drink at a riverside bar such as Siam Yacht Club.

Some suggested tours you can refer for your next trip:

Bangkok and surrounding tour 5 days Explore the vibrant capital, the temples of Ayutthaya and the famous Maeklong markets	Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days Paradise trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days: Explore from the cultural treasures of Bangkok to the scenic beauty of Chiang Mai	1 Month in Thailand  Spend 1 month in Thailand exploring golden temples, lush jungles and idyllic beaches for a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.

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Where to eat near the Chao Phraya River

Popular restaurants include The Deck by Arun Residence, Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar, Supanniga Eating Room by Khun Yai and Baan Khanitha by the River - each offering a unique atmosphere to complement your riverside experience.

The Deck by Arun Residence

Opening hour: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Location: Riverside restaurant directly opposite Wat Arun, offering stunning sunset views over the Chao Phraya River.

Signature dishes: Thai seafood specialties such as grilled river prawns, green curry and tom yum goong.

Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar

Opening hour: 7:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Location: Prime riverside spot with panoramic views of Wat Arun, especially beautiful at sunset.

Signature dishes: Modern Thai cuisine including soft-shell crab curry, pad thai with giant river prawns and mango sticky rice.

Supanniga Eating Room by Khun Yai

Opening hour: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Location: Elegant riverside setting overlooking the Chao Phraya River, perfect for relaxed dining with scenic views.

Signature dishes: Eastern Thai specialties such as moo cha muang (pork stew with cha muang leaves), crab omelette and massaman curry.

Siam Yacht Club

Opening hour: 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Location: Stylish riverside restaurant and bar at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, offering direct views of the Chao Phraya River.

Signature dishes: Fresh seafood platters, grilled Australian beef and creative cocktails inspired by riverfront life.

You can get more options: Top 9 best restaurants in Bangkok

Hotels and accommodations near the Chao Phraya River

Staying by the Chao Phraya River offers travelers stunning waterfront views, easy access to Bangkok’s top cultural landmarks and a relaxing atmosphere away from the city’s hustle.

Here are some recommended hotels for your riverside getaway.

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok	The Salil Hotel Riverside Bangkok	Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok

Avani Plus Riverside Bangkok	Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn	Chatrium Riverside Bangkok

What to notice before visiting Chao Phraya River

Before visiting Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River, you should consider some things for a smooth and enjoyable trip: choosing the best time to explore, planning how to travel around and deciding how many days to visit.

Choose the best time to visit

For your chao phraya itinerary, the best time to visit is in the cool, dry season from November to February. Mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and softer light for exploring.

For more information: Bangkok good time to visit: A complete travel guide

How to travel around Chao Phraya River

Planning a quick hop between attractions or a leisurely Chao Phraya River cruise, there’s 5 main transport options to suit every budget and travel style.

• Public express boats – Affordable and convenient for reaching key piers and attractions.

• Hop-on hop-off tourist boats – Fixed routes with unlimited rides for the day.

• Private long-tail boats – Flexible and scenic, ideal for custom sightseeing.

• Hotel shuttle boats – Complimentary service offered by many riverside hotels.

• Dinner cruises and luxury Chao Phraya River cruise – Combine sightseeing with dining and live entertainment.

How many days to explore Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River?

For most travelers, 1 day is enough to explore the main highlights along the Chao Phraya River. If you want a slower pace to enjoy museums, markets, temples and a Chao Phraya River cruise, plan 2–3 days for a fuller experience.

From glittering temples and bustling markets to scenic boat rides and riverside dining, exploring Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River offers a perfect blend of culture, history and vibrant city life. With the tips, itineraries and highlights shared in this guide, you’re ready to plan a memorable journey along the city’s lifeline. 

Start creating your ideal Bangkok river adventure today — with Hanoi Voyages.