Bangkok truly is a city that never sleeps. This is especially true on the weekends when the city comes alive with endless activities for both tourists and locals alike.
As someone who has lived in this city for many years, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the best that Bangkok has to offer on a Saturday.
So, if you’re looking for ideas for your weekend itinerary, keep reading as I share my top recommendations for things to do in Bangkok on a Saturday.
Let’s dive in!
1. Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-visit if you’re looking for things to do on Saturday. This outdoor market is a shopper’s dream, with over 15,000 stalls spanning over 11 hectares.
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest outdoor market in the world, where you can find everything from household wares, vintage clothing, budget clothing, Thai crafts, toys, and more.
Over 200,000 people visit the market each weekend, so it can get extra busy on Saturdays. The market is mostly outdoors, so bring sunscreen and wear light clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
Insider tip
The best time to visit the market is in the morning to avoid crowds and when the temperature is cooler.
2. Visit the Grand Palace
If you want to spend your Saturday soaking in Thailand’s local culture and history, the Grand Palace is a must-visit attraction that draws millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most sought-after places in Bangkok.
Constructed over 200 years ago, the Grand Palace is a complex of buildings and gardens, rather than a single structure, which once served as the royal residence, but it’s no longer the case.
Apart from its architectural beauty, the Palace is also famous for housing Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is adorned in gold that shouldn’t be missed.
The Palace is excellent for photo opportunities and admiring the intricate design and exceptional craftsmanship. However, it’s essential to note that the temple has a dress code that visitors must follow.
The Palace entrance fee is 500 THB, but the experience is worth every penny. Furthermore, private tours are available for visitors interested in learning more about the Palace’s history and the stories behind each building.
Insider tip
If you plan to visit the Palace on a Saturday, arrive early to avoid crowds.
3. Explore Siam Square
Looking for a bustling Saturday shopping destination? Look no further than Siam Square! It’s a great choice if you prefer outdoor shopping to indoor malls and want to soak up some sunshine.
This popular shopping area caters to the younger generation and has a unique feature rare in Bangkok: pedestrian-friendly roads! You might also catch a glimpse of a live street band or outdoor K Pop dancing.
Stroll around at your leisure and check out all that Siam Square has to offer, including well-known international brands like Sephora, to local favorites like SOS; Siam Square has something for everyone.
Then when you’re ready to refuel, there are plenty of food options to choose from, including Korean BBQs and Japanese cuisine.
Conveniently located near the BTS Siam station, Siam Square is easy to get to and makes for a great starting point to explore the rest of the city.
Insider tip
If you like art, check out the nearby Bangkok Art and Culture Centre within walking distance from Siam Square.
4. Relax at Lumpini Park
If you’re looking for a way to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, head to Lumphini Park for a relaxing Saturday stroll. This urban oasis covers a sprawling 142 acres in the heart of Bangkok’s Lumphini area and is known as the city’s Central Park.
The park has a tropical feel vibe with lush greenery and exotic wildlife, including some friendly lizards.
The park’s centerpiece is a large lake where you can rent paddle swans for a leisurely ride around the water.
Getting to the park is fairly easy, with convenient access via the MRT blue line and BTS Silom Line.
As the sun starts to set, join the locals in finding a quiet spot to take in the park’s beauty and escape the stresses of Bangkok.
Don’t forget to admire the statues throughout the park, including the centerpiece King Rama VI monument.
Insider tip
When visiting the park during the hot hours of the day, don’t forget your suncream and hat, as most of the park isn’t shaded.
5. Get up close with marine life at an Aquarium
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is a centrally located aquarium that offers an unforgettable underwater adventure!
With over 10,000 sqm of space housing marine life, including sharks, rays, seahorses, and penguins, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the biggest aquariums in Bangkok!
Book your tickets early to avoid the long queues if you plan to visit on a Saturday. Tickets cost between 1,161 – 1,290 THB for adults and 981 – 1,090 THB for children, but trust us, it’s worth every penny!
Located in the basement of the Siam Paragon shopping mall, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is easily accessible by BTS Skytrain via the Siam station. The aquarium has eleven different zones to explore, so it’s a great Saturday day out for families or couples.
Insider tip
Prebook your tickets online via Klook to skip the queue and get priority access. What’s Klook? It’s a safe platform for booking activities and tours.
6. Take a river cruise
Looking for a relaxing way to spend your Saturday in Bangkok? Why not take a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River and soak up the stunning views of the city’s landmarks from a different perspective?
There are several cruise operators to choose from, with popular options including the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise and the Chao Phraya White Orchid River Cruise.
During the two-hour cruise, you can indulge in a local and international cuisine buffet while admiring famous sites like The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Kanlaya, and Asiatique.
Prices for the experience start at around 910 THB per person.
Insider tip
Most of the dinner cruise ships have their pick-up point at the ICONSIAM shopping mall, which has easy access to public transport.
7. Day trip to Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is a perfect day trip destination within driving distance from Bangkok to experience traditional Thai culture and history.
As the former capital of Thailand in the 17th century, Ayutthaya is now recognized as a World Heritage Site.
Ayutthaya has over 60 temples and ruins to explore, so you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of Thailand.
The most famous ruins include Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Phra Ram.
To make the most out of your visit, I recommend taking a guided tour to learn more about Ayutthaya’s fascinating history and culture.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved when exploring the ruins of Ayutthaya.
8. Experience a night market
Exploring Bangkok’s night markets on a Saturday is a must-do experience for any traveler.
Experience delicious street food to unique souvenirs, and live entertainment; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Two of Bangkok’s most popular night markets are the Srinagarindra Night Market, also known as the Train Market, and the Jodd Fairs Night Market.
The Train Market, located near the Chatuchak Weekend Market, is known for its wide variety of food and drinks and vintage and unique finds.
The Jodd Fairs Night Market, located in the heart of the city, offers an array of goods ranging from clothing and accessories to electronics and handmade crafts.
One of the best things about visiting a night market is trying out delicious street food. From Thai favorites like Pad Thai and Som Tum to exotic treats like grilled insects and worms, there’s something for every adventurous eater.
Insider tip
Keep your valuables safe when walking around night markets.
9. Experience Bangkok’s nightlife
Bangkok offers a lively nightlife scene for those looking for something to do on a Saturday night. Visitors can head to one of the city’s many nightlife districts, such as Thonglor, Chinatown (Soi Nana), or Khao San Road.
There are plenty of nightlife options to choose from, including bars, clubs, and rooftop bars with amazing views of the city skyline.
My personal favorite drinking spots are THE COMMONS in Thonglor and Teens of Thailand in Chinatown.
Insider tip
Bars and clubs in Bangkok usually close at around 2 am.
10. Shop at a mega mall
Are you a shopaholic looking to spend Saturday browsing stores and picking up unique finds? Bangkok has some of the best shopping in Southeast Asia, with mega malls dotted around the city that cater to every budget.
There’s something for everyone, from high-end international brands to local Thai boutiques.
CentralWorld, ICONSIAM, and Siam Paragon are some of the most popular malls in the city, where you’ll find everything from designer fashion to electronics and home goods.
If you’re looking for an outdoor shopping experience, head to Asiatique, a unique riverside shopping destination combining an open-air market and a mall.
Insider tip
Bring a light jacket if you’re sensitive to the cold because it can get super cold in the malls with the air conditioning.
Before you go:
Looking for other weekend activities in Bangkok? Check out my other articles on things to do on Sunday and things to do at night in Bangkok.
