Siam Square Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and eat in Siam Square, Bangkok. Read our comprehensive guide before planning your trip.


Introduction to Siam Square

Siam Square is a bustling shopping and entertainment district located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. With its central location, it’s easy to access from other parts of the city. Siam Square is filled with trendy boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars attracting both locals and tourists alike. In this comprehensive guide, learn more about the top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and what to eat in Siam Square.

List of Places to Visit in Siam Square

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Siam Square. Here is a list of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Jim Thompson House Museum - A tribute to the American silk mogul’s influence on the Thai silk industry and Southeast Asian art. The museum displays his collection of traditional Thai houses.

  2. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre - A contemporary art museum located in the heart of Siam Square. BACC is a good place to explore Thai art, culture, and history.

Natural Attractions of Siam Square: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lumphini Park - A tranquil oasis in the middle of the city, offering a respite from the hectic pace of the city and a place to relax.

  2. Golden Mount - A 360-degree view of the city can be enjoyed from the temple on top of the mount. Known for its beautiful gardens and a spiritual experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Siam Square

Siam Square is an excellent base to explore the surrounding area. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes nearby:

  1. Lumpini Park Trail - A 2.5-km park trail that circles the park and provides an escape from the Bangkok’s hustle and bustle.

  2. Ratchaprasong District - This route will take you through the Siam Square, CentralWorld shopping complex, and the Erawan Shrine.

Best Things to Do in Siam Square: Activities and Tours

  1. Shopping - Siam Square is a popular shopping district, famous for its trendy boutiques, markets, and large shopping malls such as Siam Paragon and MBK Center.

  2. Spa Day - Bangkok is famous for its massages and spa treatments. You can find a spa or a massage center in almost every corner of Siam Square.

Week-Long Itinerary for Siam Square

If you have a week to spend in Siam Square, here is an itinerary that you should consider:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Siam Square area on foot. Visit Jim Thompson House Museum, and end the day shopping at Siam Paragon.
Day 2 Spend your day in the Lumphini Park, relax, and enjoy the park’s tranquil environment.
Day 3 Take a bicycle tour of Chinatown to explore the historic neighborhood’s vibrant street markets, ancient temples, and delicious food.
Day 4 Spend the day on a street food crawl, starting at Soi Rangnam and ending at Soi Petchaburi.
Day 5 Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand’s most sacred temple, and a defining example of Thai architecture and art.
Day 6 Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre and enjoy contemporary Thai art, culture, and history.
Day 7 Take a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand.

Food and Drink Scene of Siam Square

Siam Square has numerous restaurants, street carts, and cafes that offer different cuisines and local food. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pad Thai - A Thai noodle dish made with rice noodles stir-fried with vegetables, peanuts, soy sauce, and other seasonings.

  2. Tom Yum Goong - A spicy and sour shrimp soup that is a classic Thai dish.

Local Beverages

  1. Thai Iced Tea - A sweet and creamy drink made with black tea, sugar, and condensed milk.

  2. Singha Beer - A Thai beer brand that is popular among locals and tourists.

Where to Stay in Siam Square: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Siam Square has numerous accommodation options that cater to different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels. Some of the best options include:

  1. Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square - A luxury hotel located in the heart of Siam Square, with excellent customer service and facilities.

  2. Lub d Bangkok Siam Square - A budget-friendly hostel that provides comfortable accommodation and a modern design.

What to Buy in Siam Square: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Siam Square, you can buy various Thai products, including:

  1. Handmade Thai silk scarfs - Siam Square has numerous boutiques that sell high-quality Thai silk scarves and other traditional textiles.

  2. Thai spices and sauces - Thailand is famous for its street food and exotic spices. You can find different types of Thai spice kits, chili sauces, and pastes in Siam Square.

Local Culture and Customs of Siam Square

Thailand is known for its laid-back culture and hospitality. Here are a few things to keep in mind when in Siam Square:

  1. Always greet locals with a “sawadee ka” (for women) or “sawadee Krub” (for men).

  2. Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Siam Square

The best time to visit Siam Square is during the cool and dry season, from November to February. The temperature is mild, and the sky is clear, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Siam Square

Here some things to do and not do when you visit Siam Square:

Do:

  1. Try local food and drinks.

  2. Bargain when shopping at local markets and street carts.

Don’t:

  1. Touch or disrespect the Buddha statue or images.

  2. Engage in drugs or any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Siam Square

Siam Square is generally safe, but it’s always better to be cautious of your surroundings and take some precautions like:

  1. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.

  2. Use taxi or rideshare services provided by the hotel or a trusted taxi service.

Health in Siam Square

Thailand has a high standard of medical facilities, and you can find several hospitals and clinics in Bangkok. However, travelers should take care to avoid tap water, raw foods, and stay hydrated.

Getting to Siam Square: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Siam Square

Siam Square is about 30 minutes away from the Suvarnabhumi International Airport by taxi or train.

Bus Stations Near Siam Square

The Siam Square Bus Station is next to the National Stadium BTS Station.

Other Options

  • Taxis and rideshares are readily available in Siam Square.

  • Bangkok’s Skytrain (BTS) runs through Siam Square and offers an efficient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Siam Square

The best way to get around in Siam Square is by walking. However, taxis, tuk-tuks, and BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Siam Square: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the top destinations accessible from Siam Square:

  1. Kanchanaburi - Known for its natural beauty and historic landmarks, including the Bridge over the River Kwai.

  2. Pattaya - The ultimate beach destination, known for its lively nightlife, water sports, and beaches.

Conclusion

Siam Square is an exciting destination for travelers visiting Bangkok. From its vibrant shopping scene to its cultural and natural attractions, there is something for everyone in Siam Square. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your itinerary, find the best places to stay and eat, and explore the local culture and customs.

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