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Everything You Need to Know about Chao Phraya River
- Where is the Chao Phraya River?
- How to Get to the Chao Phraya River
- What to See and Do in the Chao Phraya River
- Book a boat tour with Chao Phraya Tourist Boat
- Explore the Grand Palace
- Visit Wat Arun
- Spend the day at the Chaloem Phra Kiat Forest Park
- Stroll around Asiatique The Riverfront
- Laze around the public park along Rama 3 Road
- Check out Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden
- Hit the stalls at the Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market
- Soak in the atmosphere at the Chao Phraya Sky Park
- Drop by Lat Pho Park
- Where to Eat and Drink in and Near the Chao Phraya River
- Le Normandie by Alain Roux
- Praya Dining
- Saffron Cruise by Banyan Tree Bangkok
- Where to Shop in and Near the Chao Phraya River
- Iconsiam
- Warehouse 30
- River City Bangkok
- Where to Stay in and Near the Chao Phraya River
- Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel
- Capella Bangkok
- Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
- FAQs about the Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is the lifeline of Central Thailand. A great waterway connecting the capital city and all its bustle to numerous provinces in the central plains and providing fresh food and transportation integral to the locals’ way of life.
Along the river are also some of the most luxurious restaurants and hotels, the liveliest bars and markets, and the most scenic public parks and temples Bangkok has to offer.
Packed with numerous attractions, it’s also a main driving force in the country’s tourism. And the best part? All of it is only a boat ride away!
Where is the Chao Phraya River?
The Chao Phraya River runs along the center point of Thailand. It starts at the confluence in Nakhon Sawan which flows south to Bangkok and exits into the Thai Gulf.
How to Get to the Chao Phraya River
Taxi: The best way to get to the Chao Phraya River is to ride a taxi from any point in Bangkok. You can hail one from the street or book one with the Grab or Bolt app.
Rental Car: Another way to get to the Chao Phraya River is to self-drive a rental car. There are numerous piers along the river, so just pick the one closest to your location.
You need an International Driving Permit and a driver’s license to borrow a car in Bangkok.
What to See and Do in the Chao Phraya River
Book a boat tour with Chao Phraya Tourist Boat
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Address: 3rd Floor, Building G, Tha Maharat Project, 1/11 Trok Sake, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang
Phone: +66 2 105 7400
Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 7:15 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Booking a boat tour with the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat is arguably the best way to experience the Chao Phraya River. They provide a hop-on-hop-off boat service so you can get off at any of their drop-off points and hop in the next boat after visiting a place.
It’s also convenient and budget-friendly since you only need to buy one unlimited pass for the day. Their route includes stops at Asiatique, Central Pier, Iconsiam, Ratchawong, Rajinee, Wat Arun, Tha Chang, Tha Maharaj, Pra Annok, and more.
But if you want to explore the Chao Phraya River to the fullest, you must ride the longtail boats docked at the piers since they can get you to the numerous canals in the city.
Explore the Grand Palace
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Address: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon
Phone: +66 2 623 5500
Pricing: 500 baht
Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
The Grand Place is arguably the most popular attraction in Bangkok and it’s conveniently next to the Chao Phraya River which is a plus. Its biggest draw is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
This sacred temple is frequented for its principal image: a jade-made seated Buddha statue in a lotus position. The Emerald Buddha is one of Thailand’s most important religious relics, so locals consider it the palladium of their society.
This palace also has the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles which has glamorous exhibits of locally-made royal gowns and dresses.
Visit Wat Arun
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Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai
Phone: +66 2 891 2185
Admission Cost: 200 baht
Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn is a stunning temple along the great Chao Phraya River. It’s also one of Bangkok’s most popular temples which is known for its striking giant stupa.
This stupa features intricately carved designs, numerous Buddha statues, and colorful porcelain tiles. It also has a dedicated pier, so accessing it via the river is a breeze.
Also, the temple’s stupa looks more impressive from the river, especially at night when its lights shine brightly.
Spend the day at the Chaloem Phra Kiat Forest Park
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Address: Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San
Operating Hours: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Chaloem Phra Kiat Forest Park is a charming riverside public park in Bangkok. It offers a nice view of the Chao Phraya River and a relaxing atmosphere ideal for pleasant morning walks and exercise.
That’s why it’s a big hit among joggers and yoga practitioners. It’s also where many locals go to hang out and play sports like volleyball, table tennis, and basketball which are great if your goal is to meet new friends.
Stroll around Asiatique The Riverfront
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Address: 2194 Charoen Krung Road, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem
Phone: +66 92 246 0812
Operating Hours: 11 a.m. – 12 a.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Asiatique The Riverfront is a trendy day and night market along the Chao Phraya River. This place has everything, from food stalls, clothing stores, accessory shops, massage parlors, cafes, restaurants, and fun rides.
Our favorite is their tall Ferris wheel which overlooks the river and the surrounding cityscapes. They also have riverfront restaurants offering romantic dinner cruises at night, perfect for couples looking for a date spot.
Laze around the public park along Rama 3 Road
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Address: 500 Rama 3 Road, Bang Khlo, Bang Kho Laem
Phone: +66 2 289 1578
Operating Hours: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
The public park along Rama 3 Road is one of the more peaceful community spaces along the Chao Phraya River. Going here allows you to unwind in peace and take a quick break from the bustling Bangkokian atmosphere.
It has jogging paths, a kid’s playground, shaded benches, grass fields, and lush gardens, so there’s plenty for everyone to see and explore. But its biggest highlight is its stunning view of the Rama IX Bridge.
This is one of Bangkok’s most beautiful bridges and it looks more stunning with its colorful lights at night. It’s locally known as the “Public Park in honor of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary.”
Check out Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden
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Address: 73 Soi Wat Rat Rangsan, Bang Kachao
Phone: +66 2 461 0972
Operating Hours: 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden is the main attraction in Bang Krachao, also known as Bangkok’s Green Lung. Surrounded by the Chao Phraya River, this tranquil city park offers vast green spaces that every nature lover will appreciate.
Our team particularly likes to stroll along its gorgeous wooden pathways and soak in the natural scenery. There’s also a calm lake where you can feed fish or watch aquatic birds hunt them for food.
In fact, the park’s thriving local bird population prompted the construction of a birdwatching tower.
Hit the stalls at the Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market
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Address: 98 Bang Nam Phueng
Phone: +66 2 461 3254
Operating Hours: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Saturday – Sunday)
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is a foodie haven near the Chao Phraya River. We like that it’s tucked away next to a canal in the heart of Bang Krachao, making it accessible by longtail boats from the river.
This place is packed with local food vendors so you have plenty of chances to try traditional Thai seafood snacks and desserts. You can also find shops selling fresh produce, local handicrafts, and flowers at reasonable prices.
There’s also a spot where you can feed fish and rabbits.
Soak in the atmosphere at the Chao Phraya Sky Park
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Address: Phra Pokklao Bridge, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon
Operating Hours: 5 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
If you’re a fan of bridges and parks, you can’t miss Chao Phraya Sky Park. This public park is built on a sky bridge over the Chao Phraya River, so expect to see colorful flower beds and a stunning river view.
It’s also known for its excellent sunset views, so locals come here in the afternoon to enjoy the scenery. In fact, we think it’s one of the city’s best casual romantic spots to take your boo.
Drop by Lat Pho Park
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Address: Song Khanong, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan
Phone: +66 96 990 6134
Operating Hours: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Lat Pho Park is a picturesque park along the Chao Phraya River and the Lat Pho Canal. It’s a great place for relaxation and photography thanks to its quiet atmosphere and circular overhead roads.
Here, you can enjoy the view of the river or capture postcard-perfect shots of its unique cityscapes. This place also offers a superb view of Bhumibol Bridge 1 and 2 which is a plus.
It also has play areas, running trails, fitness equipment, and flower gardens, giving you plenty of things to see and do.
Where to Eat and Drink in and Near the Chao Phraya River
Le Normandie by Alain Roux
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Address: 48 Oriental Avenue, Bang Rak
Phone: +66 2 659 9000
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours:
- 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
- 6:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for couples
Le Normandie by Alain Roux is a sophisticated French restaurant in Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. It’s known for its lavish European-style interiors, exquisite French cuisine, and stunning view of the Chao Phraya River.
In fact, their dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows so you can admire the river in its full glory. Their lovely flower arrangements also make it great for romantic candle-lit dinner dates with your boo.
They also offer excellent wine pairing options, thanks to their wide selection of world-class French labels.
Praya Dining
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Address: 757/1 Somdej Prapinklao Soi 2, Bang Yi Khan
Phone: +66 2 883 2998
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for Thai food
Praya Dining is a riverside restaurant boasting an elegant interior with traditional and contemporary Thai designs. The foodies on our team particularly adore their selection of seafood.
The food to watch out for is their signature gaeng rawang. It’s an aromatic stir-fried beef curry infused with lemongrass and turmeric.
We also like their crispy catfish salad with roasted shrimp dip, stir-fried pork, crab omelet, and duck curry. It’s also worth noting that this restaurant is only accessible by boat.
Saffron Cruise by Banyan Tree Bangkok
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Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon 5 Alley, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San
Phone: +66 2 679 1200
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for couples
Booking a dinner cruise is a great way to enjoy good food and experience the Chao Phraya River, and Saffron Cruise is arguably the best option. Their biggest selling point is their gorgeous cruise, classy warm-toned interior, and exquisite food.
Food-wise, our go-to is their 4-course set menu which also comes with a vegetarian option. It includes your choice of appetizer, soup, main dish, and dessert
Where to Shop in and Near the Chao Phraya River
Iconsiam
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Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Road, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San
Phone: +66 2 495 7080
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for families
Iconsiam is a massive and stylish shopping mall along the Chao Phraya River. It boasts hundreds of up-market shops and restaurants, so you’re already covered for all your shopping and dining needs.
There’s an indoor floating market where you can get a modern glimpse of Thailand’s traditional riverside markets. It also has a wharf with many luxury cruise ships for romantic dinner packages.
Warehouse 30
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Address: 48 Charoen Krung 30, Bang Rak
Phone: +66 2 237 5087
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for foodies and art fans
Warehouse 30 is one of the trendier shopping centers near the Chao Phraya River. It’s also a great place for art fans because it has plenty of art galleries and showrooms where you can buy unique works by local artists.
But our favorite shop here is Woot Woot Store. This place sells everything, from retro clothes to furniture, jewelry, home decor, props, toys, stationeries, kitchen utensils, signages, and more.
River City Bangkok
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Address: 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong
Phone: +66 22 370 077
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for families and art fans
River City Bangkok is a shopping mall and art center in one. It’s a great place to shop for luxury products while also getting the chance to admire local artworks and participate in art auctions.
They also have a floor dedicated to antique shops selling figurines, clothes, jewelry, and various collector’s items. Most of the items are expensive, but they’re definitely worth the price.
Where to Stay in and Near the Chao Phraya River
Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel
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Address: 257 Charoen Nakhon Road, Samre, Thon Buri
Phone: +66 2 431 9100
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)
Good to know: Good for couples and families
Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel is a swanky hotel near the Chao Phraya River. Its high-rise building offers a stunning view of the river and Bangkok’s beautiful skyline and glimmering cityscapes.
Plus, their standard rooms and suites provide large spaces, so couples and families can enjoy the ultimate comfort. The suites, in particular, are solid choices because they include a kitchen, wet bar, and separate living rooms.
You can also treat yourself to their trendy rooftop bar and chic International restaurant. They also have a full-service spa, fitness center, and rooftop infinity pool.
Capella Bangkok
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Address: 300, 2 Charoen Krung Road, Yan Nawa, Sathon
Phone: +66 2 098 3888
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)
Good to know: Good for couples and families
Capella Bangkok is a top-tier luxury hotel with direct access to the Chao Phraya River. This place offers ultrachic decked-out rooms with minibars, sitting spaces, and private river-view balconies.
But with your family, the best option is their stylish suite or villa with separate living rooms, whirlpool tubs, garden areas, and private pools. They also have a classy tea room, spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and 2 stylish restaurants.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
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Address: 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road, Samrae, Thon Buri
Phone: +66 2 476 0022
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)
Good to know: Good for couples and families
If you’re searching for an upscale hotel with cozy rooms and stunning views, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is a top-tier choice. Their regular rooms have elegant modern interiors and private balconies offering sublime city, garden, and river views.
Meanwhile, getting a suite adds a living room and private lounge with complimentary food and drinks. This hotel also has 6 restaurants, 3 bars, and a cutesy cafe, so you’re more than covered for food, drinks, and dessert.
