Bangkok is the kind of city that makes you reach for your phone every few minutes. Between the temples, the river, the markets, and the street life, almost every corner has something worth shooting. These are the places that really demonstrate what Bangkok is all about.
Wat Arun
The Temple of Dawn sits right on the Chao Phraya River and is probably Bangkok’s most photographed building for good reason. The spires are covered in fragments of Chinese porcelain that catch the light differently depending on the time of day. Sunrise gets you soft golden tones and almost no crowd. Cross from the opposite bank for the wide shot, or go at dusk when the temple is lit up against the darkening sky.
Vimanmek Teak Mansion
This is one of Bangkok’s most underrated photo locations, and it sits right in the Dusit district, which makes it incredibly easy to visit if you’re staying anywhere near the riverside in that part of the city. The mansion is the world’s largest golden teak building, and the architecture blends Victorian and classical Thai styles in a way that looks unlike anything else. Photography is allowed on the grounds and in the gardens, but not inside the building itself.
Go in the morning for the best light and the quietest crowds. If you’re searching for hotels in Bangkok Thailand, near tourist attractions that photograph well, your options include The Siam Hotel Bangkok.
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a must-visit, whether or not you want to photograph it. With its shimmering gold surfaces, rich colours, and sheer scale, the whole complex tends to leave visitors spellbound. It does get busy as the day goes on, so the earlier you get there, the better. The contrast between the ornate buildings and the bright blue sky is simply marvellous.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
The floating market gives you a completely different kind of shot, with colour, chaos, movement, and texture all at once. Vendors in traditional hats steer wooden boats loaded with fruit between old buildings. It’s quite a rare spectacle. Get there early before the crowds descend.