5 Must-See Museums in Bangkok and How to Visit

The capital of Thailand is home to world-class museums.

2 min readAug 26, 2019By Elen Turner

A man walks past Buddhist statues in an alley of Bangkok in Thailand

Hi, I'm Elen!

Elen is a writer and editor based in the small city of Nelson, on New Zealand's South Island. Her work focuses on travel, arts, culture, and the humanities. When not working, she likes to explore one of the three national parks on her doorstep.

Bangkok is best known for its bustling nightlife, colorful markets, and sparkling temples amid ultra-modern highrises. To enjoy a chilled out day or half-day of culture, history, and learning, check out one of these top-notch museums.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

1. Jim Thompson House

People walk beneath colorful flags at Jim Thompson House in Bangkok in Thailand.

A look at Jim Thompson House in Bangkok.Photo Credit: cowardlion / Shutterstock

For luscious gardens and private art.

American businessman Jim Thompson helped revive Thailand’s traditional silk-weaving industry. The Jim Thompson house displays his private art and antiques collections within beautifully restored old teak homes and includes luscious gardens.

How to Visit: Visitors are required to join a guided tour of the interiors.

Visit Jim Thompson House

2. Bangkok National Museum

Buddha displays being explored by visitors to the Bangkok National Museum in Thailand.

An exhibit at Bangkok National Museum.Photo Credit: thebigland / Shutterstock

For Thai artifacts inside a palace.

This extensive collection of Thai art and artifacts is housed in an 18th-century palace. It’s a convenient place to visit while also touring the Grand Palace and nearby temples.

How to Visit: Consider hiring a private guide to get added context and details on the items on display.

Visit Bangkok National Museum

3. Ancient City Museum

An aerial view of the Ancient City Museum on a pretty lake in the heart of Bangkok in Thailand.

An aerial view of the Ancient City Museum.Photo Credit: Guitar photographer / Shutterstock

For Thailand's architectural wonders.

The Ancient City Museum, east of Bangkok, is one of the largest open-air museums in the world. Find many of Thailand’s most beautiful and interesting architectural wonders in miniature.

How to Visit:Hire a bicycle to tour the large outdoor museum, and plan on spending the whole day.

Visit Ancient City Museum

4. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA Bangkok)

Friends check out the canvases on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok.

Inside the Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok.Photo Credit: Bangkoker / Shutterstock

For unique cultural expression.

Showcasing the collections of prominent Thai communications magnate, Boonchai Bencharongkul, the Museum of Contemporary Art spans five floors. In a country famous for its traditional architecture and crafts, MOCA presents a different side of Thailand’s artistic and cultural expression.

How to Visit: MOCA is a bit out of the way. Take the Skytrain to Mo Chit station; then take a taxi.

Visit MOCA Bangkok

5. SEA LIFE® Bangkok Ocean World

Lot of visitors watch the marine life at SEA LIFE® Bangkok Ocean World.

A tunnel at SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World.Photo Credit: Tanasara / Shutterstock

For sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures.

Located in the basement of the enormous Siam Paragon mall, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is one of the biggest aquariums in Asia. Gaze at the sharks and stingrays swimming around you as you walk through a glass tunnel.

How to Visit: Purchase a combo ticket that gives admission to SEA LIFE as well as Madame Tussauds Bangkok.