Things to do in Siam – Bangkok – Thailand

Located in the heart of Bangkok, Siam district is one of the city’s most vibrant and exciting areas. This bustling district is known for its high-end shopping centers, delicious street food, and world-class tourist attractions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Siam, including must-see tourist sites, top-rated restaurants, and the best places to stay.

Tourist Sites

The Grand Palace One of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok, the Grand Palace is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Siam. This spectacular palace complex was built in the late 18th century and served as the official residence of the King of Thailand until 1925. Today, the Grand Palace is open to the public and is home to a number of impressive structures and historic artifacts, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Royal Reception Hall.

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) Located within the Grand Palace complex, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is one of the most sacred sites in Thailand. This stunning temple is home to a small, highly revered statue of the Buddha made entirely of green jade. Visitors to the temple can admire its intricate architecture and stunning murals, as well as learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient site.

Jim Thompson House For a glimpse into traditional Thai architecture and design, be sure to visit the Jim Thompson House. This beautiful teakwood mansion was once the home of American entrepreneur Jim Thompson, who played a significant role in reviving the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, the Jim Thompson House is a popular museum that offers visitors a fascinating insight into Thai culture and history.

Madame Tussauds Bangkok Located inside the Siam Discovery shopping center, Madame Tussauds Bangkok is a fun and interactive attraction that is perfect for visitors of all ages. This popular wax museum features lifelike wax figures of some of the world’s most famous celebrities, politicians, and athletes, as well as a range of interactive exhibits and photo opportunities.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World Another great attraction for families visiting Siam is SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World. This impressive aquarium is home to over 30,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and giant octopuses. Visitors can explore a range of underwater exhibits and learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit our oceans.

Street Food and Food Courts

One of the best things about visiting Siam is the amazing street food and food courts that can be found throughout the district. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best food courts in Siam include MBK Center Food Court, Siam Square Soi 5 Food Court, and Siam Center Food Court. Here, you’ll find a range of delicious Thai dishes, including pad thai, som tum (papaya salad), and khao man gai (chicken rice).

In addition to the food courts, there are also plenty of street food vendors located throughout Siam. Some of the best spots to grab a quick bite include the stalls along Phaya Thai Road and Rama 1 Road. Here, you’ll find a range of traditional Thai snacks, such as grilled meat skewers, fried chicken, and fresh fruit smoothies.

Restaurants

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Siam also boasts a number of excellent restaurants that serve creative and modern Thai cuisine. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the district include:

Som Tam Nua This popular restaurant is known for its delicious and authentic Thai cuisine, with a focus on the classic dish of som tum (papaya salad). The restaurant offers a variety of som tum variations, as well as other Thai favorites like tom yum soup and green curry.

Issaya Siamese Club Located in a beautiful colonial-style house, Issaya Siamese Club is a top-rated restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s menu is full of unique and creative dishes, such as crispy pork belly with tamarind sauce and green curry risotto.

Bo.lan For a truly unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check out Bo.lan. This award-winning restaurant is known for its innovative and sustainable approach to Thai cuisine, using locally-sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible. The menu changes regularly based on the seasons and availability of ingredients, but past dishes have included grilled pork with tamarind sauce and spicy coconut soup.

Hotels and Accommodation

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious five-star hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Siam has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top-rated hotels in the district include:

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok Located within walking distance of many of Siam’s top attractions, the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is a luxurious five-star hotel that offers world-class amenities and stunning views of the city. The hotel features multiple restaurants, a rooftop infinity pool, and a full-service spa.

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square For a more affordable option, consider staying at the Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square. This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Siam and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the nearby shopping centers and attractions.

Hostel At Thonglor If you’re on a budget, the Hostel At Thonglor is a great option for backpackers and solo travelers. This hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge area.

Shopping Centres and Markets

Siam is known for its high-end shopping centers, which offer a range of luxury brands and designer goods. Some of the best shopping centers in Siam include:

Siam Paragon This upscale shopping center is home to a range of luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. In addition to the high-end fashion and accessories, Siam Paragon also features a cinema, a bowling alley, and a range of restaurants and cafes.

CentralWorld One of the largest shopping centers in Southeast Asia, CentralWorld is a must-visit destination for any shopaholic. The mall features over 500 stores, including international brands and local designers, as well as a range of restaurants and entertainment options.

MBK Center For a more affordable shopping experience, check out the MBK Center. This massive shopping complex is known for its bargain prices and wide range of goods, from electronics to fashion and accessories.

10 interesting facts about Siam Bangkok

1. Siam was the name of Thailand from 1851 to 1939.
2. The name “Siam” is derived from the Sanskrit word “śyāma,” meaning “dark” or “brown.”
3. Siam Square, located in the heart of the district, is considered the “Pulse of Bangkok” and is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
4. The Siam Paragon shopping center, located in Siam, is one of the largest malls in Asia.
5. The Siam Center, located adjacent to Siam Paragon, was the first shopping center to open in Thailand.
6. The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, located in Siam, is a contemporary art museum that features a range of exhibits and events.
7. The Jim Thompson House, located in Siam, is a museum that showcases the traditional Thai architecture and art collection of the American businessman and art collector, Jim Thompson.
8. The Siam BTS Skytrain station, located in Siam, is one of the busiest stations in Bangkok and provides easy access to other parts of the city.
9. The Erawan Shrine, located near Siam, is a popular religious site where people come to make offerings and pray for good fortune.
10. The Thai national anthem, “Phleng Chat Thai,” is played twice a day at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM in Siam Square.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in exploring Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage, sampling the city’s delicious street food, or indulging in some luxury shopping, Siam has something for everyone. From the stunning Grand Palace to the trendy Siam Paragon shopping center, this district is full of exciting and unforgettable experiences.