Southeast Asia has long been a backpacker’s paradise, in large part thanks to how far your money can travel. Even capital cities, such as Bangkok, still yield tremendous bang for your buck, or baht in this case. This chaotic city swirling with shopping malls, street food, temples and taxis might be a sensory overload to some, but for budget-conscious travelers who’ve booked cheap international flights, it’s a dream. Not only can your baht stretch farther in Bangkok, but you are never limited with sightseeing on a budget either. Even the most frugal of travelers will agree that there are a variety of free things to do in Bangkok to fill up their itinerary. You won’t need to fret about your bank account on this freebie fan’s tour of Bangkok.
Get Lost in Chinatown
When you are low on funds but want the ultimate adventure in Bangkok, Chinatown delivers. This historic section of Bangkok is chock-full of shopping streets, enticing street food, trinkets, traditional medicine and plenty of activity. You can certainly get lost in this part of the city, but with so much to look at, you won’t mind. Chinatown even claims several temples in its path, some of which don’t charge admission like the famous Wat Mangkon Kamalawat.
Grab Your Camera and Head for the Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market
Bangkok is known for its markets, many of which tempt the traveler into spending some baht. However, unlike some of the city’s other markets, you might be less inclined to make a purchase at the Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market. Since most travelers don’t have use for flowers on the road, this market makes for a nice place to spend an hour with your camera in hand. Known as the Bangkok Flower Market, you can find a kaleidoscope of colors and what seems like every flower under the sun. Flowers remain an important part of Thai culture, used as offerings and gifts. Not only can you capture all of the eye-popping floral arrangements before you, but you’ll also be able to watch artisans creating their displays.
Ready to explore Bangkok for free? Grab your cheap international flights to get there!
Break From the Chaos of the City Streets at Lumphini Park
When the chaos of Bangkok’s streets have you feeling a bit run down, the city answers with its green oasis, Lumphini Park. This free attraction in the city sits right in the middle of Bangkok’s busy shopping and business districts, and yet you can feel worlds away from the noise. The popular public park boasts manicured lawns, rambling paths, park benches for perching and even an artificial lake. The park is also home to examples of native plants from all regions of Thailand. If you come in the early morning, you might get to see locals practicing Tai Chi. In addition to being the city’s green oasis, Lumphini Park also hosts free concerts on Sundays from November through February by the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra.
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Explore Bangkok’s Artistic Side
Are you an art aficionado who has just booked cheap international flights to Bangkok? If so, you’re in luck! The city boasts loads of free attractions targeted at art lovers. One of those freebies is the Silpa Bhirasri National Museum. The museum showcases the work of the father of modern Thai art, Silpa Bhirasri. For a look at Bangkok’s contemporary art side, you can also explore the Bangkok Arts and Culture Center free of charge. The contemporary arts center hosts shops, cafes and art galleries along with plenty of rotating exhibitions by Thai artists.
Have you been to Bangkok? Share your favorite freebie finds with us in the comments below!
