BANGKOK Hop on Hop off Boat Tour: 1 Day Itinerary

If you’re coming to Bangkok you’ll be looking for the easiest ways to explore the city. Picture this: gliding through on the Chao Phraya River, spotting historic temples, and cruising by bustling local markets. One of the best ways to get around is by taking the Bangkok Hop On Hop Off boat tour to explore the famous landmarks that sit along the Chao Phraya River.

Find a variety of activities down below if you’re short on time in Bangkok.

Bangkok Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour

Bangkok’s Hop on Hop off boat tour offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. You can disembark at any of the designated stops to visit attractions, then simply hop back on the next boat when you’re ready to continue your journey.

The boat route covers many of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the bustling markets of Chinatown. This makes it an efficient way to see a wide variety of sights without the hassle of navigating the city’s often congested roads.

Traveling by boat provides a unique perspective of Bangkok. The Chao Phraya River, often referred to as the ‘River of Kings,’ offers stunning views of the cityscape, blending modern skyscrapers with historic temples and traditional wooden houses.

The Hop on Hop off boat is also a cost-effective option for sightseeing. Instead of paying for multiple taxi or tuk-tuk rides, a single ticket grants you unlimited travel for the day, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

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Bangkok Boat Tour

Start your day early at Sathorn Pier (Central Pier), conveniently located near the Saphan Taksin BTS station. From here, you can purchase a day pass for the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, which allows unlimited rides and is ideal for a DIY hop-on hop-off experience. Tickets for the Hop on Hop off boat tour can be purchased at various piers along the river or online. Prices are generally reasonable, and some operators offer discounted rates for children, seniors, or groups.

Get the cheapest tickets online here.

Bangkok Tourist Boat Fee: 30 TBH for one stop (around $1 USD) and 150 TBH (around $4 USD) for a full day pass.

Before you embark, grab a quick breakfast from one of the local vendors near the pier. A freshly cooked Thai omelette or some sticky rice with mango will give you the burst of energy needed for your day. 

Once you’re fueled up, board the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat heading north. To get the best views of the city, opt for the top deck where you’ll get 360 views of the Chao Phraya River. Your first stop will be the IconSiam where you can get your tourist privilege card for numerous discounts and free lounge access. Roam the mall, shop to your hearts content and then get back on the boat for some temple hopping.

Your next stop will be the majestic Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This stunning riverside temple is famous for its towering spires and intricate porcelain decorations. Spend some time exploring the temple grounds and climbing the central prang for a panoramic view of the river. It’s just a 15-minute ride away and perfect for some stunning photos as the morning light highlights the temple’s intricate details.

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Next, continue your journey to Tha Tien Pier. From here, take a short stroll to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Prepare to spend a couple of hours to fully appreciate the grandeur of the palace complex and the intricate details of the temple. These sites are often bustling with tourists, but they’re must-see landmarks in Bangkok. 

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For a mid-morning snack, hop over to Tha Maharaj Pier where you’ll find riverside cafés and street food stalls. This riverside community mall offers a variety of dining options, making it a perfect spot for some pastries or if you’re up for it, dessert at After You Dessert Cafe.

Enjoy some local Thai cuisine while taking in the scenic views of the Chao Phraya River. Don’t miss out on trying some grilled giant river prawns or steamed seabass with lime & chilli sauce at Savoey. Located on the second level of Tha Maharaj, Savoey offers the perfect spot to savor seafood with a close-up river view.

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By lunchtime, you might want to catch a boat back towards central Bangkok. Hop off at the Yodpiman River Walk near Pak Khlong Talat Market, known for its beautiful flower market. You can witness the vibrant and colorful array of flowers and plants. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and even pick up a souvenir.

In the afternoon, head to the Phra Arthit Pier, which is near the bustling Khao San Road. While Khao San Road is known for its nightlife, during the day you can explore its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street food vendors. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.

As the day winds down, make your way to the Asiatique Pier. Asiatique The Riverfront is a large open-air mall with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Stroll through the various shops, enjoy a riverside dinner, and perhaps catch a traditional Thai puppet show or ride the Ferris wheel for a stunning view of the city at night.

As evening falls, make your way back to Sathorn Pier. If you have time, consider taking a sunset or night dinner cruise to see the city illuminated against the night sky. The Chao Phraya River offers a different, magical perspective of Bangkok after dark.

Thanks for reading our 1 day itinerary for the Bangkok boat tour. We hope you have an incredible time exploring Bangkok by boat. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our 15 Best Bangkok Hotels That Will Make You Feel Like Actual Royalty and our Ultimate 3-Day Bangkok itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

The best time to visit Bangkok is during the cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are more comfortable, and humidity is lower. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds at popular attractions.

The best shoulder months to visit Bangkok are March to early April and late September to October. These months offer a balance between manageable weather, fewer tourists, and better deals on accommodations and activities.