Flowing right through Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River is often called the River of Kings. Taking a boat tour along the river is the best way to see some of the most notable attractions in the city.
About Chao Phraya River
The river divides the city into two sections: Thonburi on the west and Rattanakosin on the east.
The reason the Chao Phraya River features on so many lists of Bangkok attractions is that most of them are located right by the river. Take the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, for example.
Sign up for one boat tour, and you can view these remarkable landmarks from the river – the best way to see them.
The river is certainly a major tourist feature, and it also plays a key role in the everyday life of Bangkok.
Nearby Accommodation
The Chao Phraya River is one of the most popular attractions in the city. This popularity has given rise to a variety of hotels in the vicinity, just a short distance from the river.
As the river is right by the city centre and helps with getting around, providing a way to see the city’s attractions in the best way possible, it behoves you to stay in one of the hotels in Bangkok City Centre close to the river.
Want suggestions? Check out Avani Ratchada Bangkok, which is less than 30 minutes from the river. Any time you feel like it, you can hop on a ferry and take a tour around the city, taking in the beauty, majesty, and cultural splendour of the city all in one go.
Types of Boats
You can choose from two types of boats, both of which promise a memorable experience, so choose one depending on your budget.
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Express Boats
This is actually the local transportation. Locals just get on an express boat when they want to get somewhere. You won’t believe how cheap the fare is – it ranges from 10 to 30 Baht, which is incredibly cheap even by Bangkok’s standards.
As mentioned before, if you stay in nearby accommodation, you can take an express boat to save yourself some money and beat the traffic too. You can easily buy tickets from the counter.
While getting a ticket is easy, finding the best ferry route can be somewhat challenging, especially if it’s your first time. Plus, ferries aren’t well marked. So, what can you do? Talk to a local and ask for help identifying the right ferry route. Locals are incredibly friendly and will definitely help you.
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Tourist Boats
Don’t want the hassle of finding the right ferry? Well, opt for the Tourist Boat then. As the name suggests, it’s a boat for tourists.
If you don’t have a lot of time but want to see as much of the city as possible, the Tourist Boat is ideal for you. You can get the day pass for 200 Baht, which gives you access to the Tourist Boat all day long, plus you can get on and off as you wish.
The earliest you can get the Tourist Boat is 9:30 AM, and the latest is 7 PM. Needless to say, this hop-on hop-off tour boat is perfect for tourists who want to make the most of their time.
Itinerary
Once you get the tourist day pass, you’re all set to experience Bangkok in the best way possible. The views you get from the lake are out of this world.
These are some of the most popular attractions you’ll come across:
- The Grand Palace: A beautiful temple that was once home to royals for centuries.
- Wat Arun: Also known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun sits right by the river.
- Wat Phra Kaew: This is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, located right within the Grand Palace. It’s definitely a must-visit.
- Asiatique The Riverfront: A shopping and dining precinct right by the river, Asiatique The Riverfront is perfect for a night out.
- Tha Tien Pier: This is an excellent spot to take some pictures of the river and riverside attractions.
Why Should You Opt for the Tourist Boat?
There are several reasons why. Here are some of them:
- You won’t be stuck in the traffic for which Bangkok is notorious.
- You get access to all 11 piers.
- It’s the best way to view the city.
- The boat tour gives you easy access to some of the most popular attractions in the city.