10 Best Things to Do in Thonburi

Wat Arun is a landmark temple on the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya river. Nicknamed 'the Temple of the Dawn', it’s easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, not only because of its riverside location but also because the design is very different from the other temples you can visit around the city.

Wat Arun is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires and stands majestically over the water. We would recommend spending at least an hour visiting the temple. Although it’s known as the Temple of the Dawn, it's absolutely stunning at sunset, particularly when lit up at night. Even so, the quietest time to visit is early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Bangkok is famous for its series of canals and waterways which once served as the main form of transport. Today, the khlongs (canals in Thai) still serve commuters and travellers who want to get around town by boat. The canals in Thonburi offer you a chance to see a ‘local’ side of Bangkok. Pass by families enjoying lunch in their wooden homes, see children playing in the secluded alleys, and glide past traditional markets.

Three Sixty Lounge Bangkok is a stylish lounge and rooftop bar at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok Hotel. It has an incredible view that surpasses almost all other rooftops bars in the Thai capital as it overlooks the Chao Phraya River in all its glory, along with Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, and Sukhumvit’s towering skyline.

Great views are not the only thing going for this romantic riverside spot. You can treat your loved one to a luxury rooftop picnic, complete with a picnic hamper full of treats prepared with foie gras, imported meats, and cold cuts.

Baan Silapin occupies a beautiful 200-year-old wooden house on the water’s edge, displaying paintings, clothes, masks, puppets and several statues, some of which are for sale. You’ll also find a 600-year-old chedi (temple spire) hidden away in the middle, along with a restaurant and a small coffee shop.

Traditional Thai puppet shows take place on a small wooden stage every day at 2pm, except Wednesdays. The Artist House is a little out of the way on probably not in your everyday tourist guide, but it’s worth the extra effort to get there.

Wat Kalayanamit is often overlooked by tourists, despite dominating the western bank of the Chao Phraya River with its giant temple structure. The nearby Wat Arun is much more famous and acts as a magnet, drawing the crowds away from many Thonburi attractions and temples. If you want a more tranquil, less touristy alternative, head to Wat Kalayanamit, which is particularly famous for its enormous seated golden Buddha inside the main building.

Klong Lat Mayom is a traditional floating market in Thonburi, about 10 km east of downtown Bangkok. It specialises in fresh fruit and vegetables, but you’ll also find plenty of handicrafts, clothes and artworks for sale. Even if you’re not coming to buy anything, this picturesque spot makes for a nice photo-op and relaxing retreat from central Bangkok. You can also enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, including boat noodles, kanom jeen (cold rice vermicelli), and hoi tod (oyster omelette).

Santa Cruz Cathedral in Bangkok is an impressive Catholic church built when Thonburi served as the capital of Thailand. The Portuguese have long been allied with Thailand, and this religious building was originally constructed as a result of these close ties, with permission granted by King Taksin in 1767.

The building you see today is a modern, revamped version of the one built in the 19th century (the original was made from wood and burnt down). However, the more contemporary Santa Cruz Church still stands proud with its cream tones and architectural features reminiscent of classic Italian design.

The Royal Barges Museum displays 8 of Thailand’s most unique and stunning vessels: the Royal Barges. These boats are reserved for auspicious ceremonies and state occasions like the very rare Royal Barge Procession. Each boat was carved meticulously from massive slabs of teak, decorated with mythical creatures and painted in bright shades of gold, red and blue. You can easily find the Royal Barges Museum near the Phra Pin Klao Bridge. Note that the barges might not be in the museum during or in preparation for the special ceremonies.

Wat Prayoon is a modestly sized yet beautiful temple dating back to the reign of King Rama III in the 19th century. Its main focal point is the central white chedi which rises above the surrounding fortress of mini spires. Other highlights around the site include an unusual turtle pond and a spirit house around the back, surrounded by some mysterious-looking trees. Sitting on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is next to the Memorial Bridge (Saphan Phut).