We often think of shopping and dining when we hear about Bangkok, Thailand. However, there are several other activities you can enjoy in this Asian megacity. And the best part is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Here are some of the free things to do in Bangkok:
Free Things to Do in Bangkok – Bring out the Art Aficionado in You in Bangkok’s Galleries
Art aficionados would rejoice in knowing that they won’t have to break their travel budget to appreciate virtuosity in Bangkok. WTF Gallery and Café might be a popular cocktail bar but it will not cost you a penny to view the works in its 2nd and 3rd floor galleries. The public is also welcome to visit the gallery and library at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. BANGKOK CITYCITY GALLERY also offers free admission. Baan Silapin is a gallery set in a centuries old house. It features local artwork and photography, as well as a puppet theater.

Free Things to Do in Bangkok – Conquer the Maze of Bangkok’s Markets
Bangkok is also known for its vibrant market life. But you don’t have to bust your bank to experience the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s markets. You can simply window shop and find your way through the maze of stalls and people at Chatuchak Weekend Market, Ratchada Rot Fai Train Night Market, Khlong Toei Market, Phahurat Market, Pak Khlong Flower Market and Wang Lang Market. While exploring the markets, make sure you keep yourself alert so you do not easily fall prey to Bangkok scams.
READ MORE: BEST SHOPPING IN BANGKOK – 10 PLACES TO EXPLORE





Free Things to Do in Bangkok – Enjoy the Views at Lhong 1919
What used to be a siheyuan-style port and warehouse is now a tourist destination on Chiang Mai Road. Lhong 1919 has dining places, arts and craft shops, Thai-Chinese relations learning center, resting areas, co-working spaces, and photography spots. It even has a large shrine dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea and seafaring.

Free Things to Do in Bangkok – Explore Bangkok’s Chinatown
There’s a vibrant Chinese district in Bangkok brimming with sights. Start with the ornate Chinatown Gate and from there, you can explore the different streets and alleys of Bangkok’s Chinatown.

Feel the Local Vibe at Night
Bangkok’s nightlife is renowned worldwide – and it can easily place a significant dent on your travel budget. If you want to experience Bangkok nightlife, sans the expensive cost, go for an evening stroll on Khao San Road or on Soi Rambuttri. Sukhumvit Soi 38 night market is also a great place to explore.
READ MORE: Bangkok Thai Cuisine with David Thompson and Jarrett Wrisley



Learn More about History and Culture in Bangkok’s Museums
Bangkokian Museum features life in Bangkok in the early years of the 20th century. At Bangkok Dolls Shop and Museum, you don’t have to make a purchase to view its handcrafted dolls collection donned in traditional costumes. The Bangkok Corrections Museum at Rommaninat Park was a former maximum security prison and presently allows you to learn more about corporeal punishments and executions of the olden days. You can visit the Ancient Artillery Museum in front of the Ministry of Defence headquarters for some open-air education on ancient cannons used in Thailand battles. The Royal Thai Air Force Museum features military aircraft and the role of Thailand in World War II.



Relax in Bangkok’s Parks
In spite of the high rise buildings dominating Bangkok’s skyline, there are several lush verdant spaces all over the city. Take a break at the manicured lawns of Lumphini Park and relax while staring at its water features. Or you can take a leisurely stroll at Queen Sirikit Park. Other interesting (and free entry) parks include Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, Benjakitti Park, Chatuchak Park and Benchasiri Park.






Take Photos of Bangkok’s Historic Landmarks
Thailand’s Ministry of Defence has its headquarters in a Neo-Palladian building erected in the late 19th century in the Phra Nakhon area of Bangkok. The 18th century Phra Sumen Fort and its octagonal bunker can be found in Santi Chai Prakan Public Park. Near Bangkok’s Kilometer Zero is a roundabout where you can see the towering Democracy Monument in the middle. Wongwian Yai is another traffic circle with a monument in the middle. This time, it’s a King Taksin statue. Still on the subject of roundabouts and monuments, the Victory Monument stands tall in the traffic circle where Phahonyothin and Ratchawithi Roads converge.





Visit the Temples and Shrines in Bangkok
While most of the famous temples in Bangkok require an admission fee, there are some that are as impressive that you can visit without having to cough up a dime. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen and Wat Bowonniwetwiharn Ratchaworawiharn are good examples. There’s also Wat Pathum Wanaram in the Pathum Wan District and Wat Kalayanamit Varamahavihara on New Arun Amarin Road. The Hindu Erawan Shrine features a gilded Brahma statue and does not cost you anything to visit. You likewise don’t need to spend a penny to admire the colors and detail of Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Bangkok City Pillar Shrine houses the revered city pillar that was erected when Bangkok was made the capital of Siam in 1872.






Window Shop at ASIATIQUE: The Riverfront
Browse through shops and watch the activities taking place in this open-air mall. Its waterfront promenade is a good spot for taking in views across the Chao Phraya River. And don’t forget to take pictures of the mall’s Ferris wheel. ASIATIQUE is a great family destination – making visiting it one of the fun things to do in Bangkok with kids.

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