Thonglor & Ekamai Area



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Accessible via Sukhumvit Road or Petchburi Road, Thonlor and Ekamai are home to the hip and the trendy. These two leafy districts branch off of Sukhumvit Road at Soi 55 and Soi 63, and are part of the Watthana district in Bangkok’s central region. Once a place of dodgy car dealerships and tatty eateries, they have since undergone serious makeovers. In recent years, Thonglor and Ekamai have become highly cosmopolitan regions with residential areas, a whole host of excellent restaurants and stylish bars. For many of the up-and-coming locals, this is the area where it all happens. You’ll find an eclectic mix of young professionals, creative designers and fashion-conscious trendsetters here. 

Restaurants are super chic and include cuisines from around the World. Being a highly fashionable area, eateries are frequently changing, but tend to serve up gourmet international favourites and contemporary Thai dishes. Some of the flashiest restaurants congregate along tree-lined Thong Lo Soi 9, which has been dubbed the 'Gourmet Mile' of Bangkok. Many wine bars have sprouted in recent years, offering quality wines at reasonable prices, as well as quirky pubs accommodating a mixture of nationalities and ages. The area is also fantastic for shopping, with a collection of small shopping malls, plazas and boutique shops perched along the streets. These districts are perfect for socialising and people watching from one of the many coffee shops or cute cafes. 

The area is easily accessible via the BTS Skytrain (Elevated sky train), with Thonglor and Ekamai stations located on Sukhumvit Road. 

 

Top Experiences and Tours in Bangkok

If youʻre booking your trip to Bangkok last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences!

Bangkok: Highlights, Temples, and Canal Tour

Bangkok: Highlights, Temples, and Canal Tour

Highlights

  • Visit Bangkok’s most sacred temples, including Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho
  • Explore the Grand Palace and discover Thailand’s royal heritage
  • Wander through Pakklong Talad, Bangkok’s vibrant 24-hour flower market.
  • Admire Wat Arun’s iconic riverside prang and panoramic city views
  • Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour teak boat ride through Thonburi’s traditional canals.

Description

Discover the cultural treasures, historic landmarks, and authentic rhythms of Thailand’s capital on our Best of Bangkok Tour. This full-day experience takes you through Bangkok’s most sacred temples, royal grounds, bustling markets, and concludes with a peaceful journey along the traditional canals of Thonburi. It is the perfect blend of history, beauty, and local life. Your adventure begins at the revered Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Considered the most sacred temple in Thailand, its stunning architecture and spiritual significance offer a powerful introduction to Bangkok’s heritage. Before entering the complex, stroll past the atmospheric Amulet Market, where locals trade sacred charms believed to bring protection, good fortune, and blessings. As one of the oldest community markets on Rattanakosin Island, it provides a glimpse into deeply rooted Thai traditions. Next, step into the grandeur of the Grand Palace, the former royal residence and ceremonial heart of the kingdom. Admire its golden spires, detailed murals, and elegant courtyards that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. Your guide will share stories of coronations, cultural rituals, and royal events still held within these historic grounds. Continue to the historic Wat Pho, home of the magnificent Reclining Buddha and an important center for traditional Thai medicine. Recognized by UNESCO for its educational heritage, Wat Pho features impressive murals, ancient inscriptions, and peaceful courtyards that showcase the evolution of Thai art and Buddhist learning. Cross the river to the iconic Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), one of the most photographed landmarks in Bangkok. Its towering prang, decorated with delicate porcelain and seashell mosaics, rises majestically above the Chao Phraya River. From here, take in breathtaking views of the riverside and the historic old city. After exploring the temples, make your way to the vibrant Pakklong Talad (Flower Market). This 24-hour market overflows with colorful blooms—orchids, roses, marigolds, jasmine garlands, and seasonal flowers used for offerings and celebrations. Wander through fragrant aisles, observe skilled vendors crafting floral arrangements, and enjoy one of Bangkok’s most visually captivating markets. From here, unwind on a relaxing 2-hour teak boat ride through the serene canals of Thonburi, the former capital of Thailand. As your wooden boat glides along narrow khlongs, you’ll discover a quieter, more traditional side of Bangkok—wooden houses on stilts, small temples, waterside communities, and lush greenery. This peaceful journey offers a rare look into the city’s past and shows why Bangkok was once known as the “Venice of the East.” This tour unites iconic temples, royal splendor, cultural markets, and tranquil waterways—offering you a complete, memorable, and authentic Bangkok experience in just one day.

Includes

Professional licensed guide Boat ticket from River City Bangkok to The Grand Palace Tuk-Tuk from Grand Palace to Wat Pho 2-hour boat trip on the Chaophraya River Travel insurance Drinking water

Important Information

  • Please note that the chapel is a national shrine and you will be required to wear proper attire: no bare shoulders and knees, or strapless-heel shoes
  • Shoes must be removed before entering the temple buildings as a matter of respect
  • Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and in the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple, but not inside the buildings
  • It is recommended to bring sunglasses and hat as the weather can get quite warm in Bangkok

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Bangkok: Full-Day Customized Tour with Local Transportation

Bangkok: Full-Day Customized Tour with Local Transportation

Highlights

  • Experience Bangkok according to your interests with a licensed guide
  • Hop onto a public transportation like Skytrain, Tuk Tuk, taxi boat or taxi
  • Explore Rattanakosin Island, the old part of Bangkok, to see Wat Pho, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace
  • Enhance your shopping experiences at MBK, Platinum, Siam Paragon and many more
  • Try the street food vendors at China Town with suggestions from the guide

Description

Explore Bangkok with a private guide and enjoy the flexibility of a customized tour. Visit major sightseeing attractions, eat good street food, discover the flower market, take a little canal boat tour, or simply bargain better at the shopping malls like MBK Center or Platinum. Begin your customized private journey of Bangkok by meeting your guide at the hotel lobby. Benefit from an itinerary that can be altered and adjusted according to your interests. Your licensed tour guide will give you a personalized experience in this amazing Bangkok city. Get to know the local way of life a little better by making use of various public transportation systems to get from place to place. There will be Skytrain, underground metro, bus, taxi, Tuk Tuk, and canal boat for you to choose from. Explore Rattanakosin Island to see the Grand Palace, Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho or Wat Arun. Check out the famous Khao San Road or Chatuchak Weekend Market. Be hassle-free and let the guide arrange things for you to enjoy the fascinating city at its best.

Includes

Private tour of Bangkok Licensed guide Hotel pickup

Important Information

  • Guests are required to pay for the public transportation fee and meals for the guide as well as according to the plan selected on the tour date
  • This is a fully customizable tour with public transportation within Bangkok, if you'd like to consult with the travel plan beforehand, please feel free to email the local partner after the booking is done
  • The extra fees for transportation, attraction, and food depend on your choice of excursion

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market

Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market

Highlights

  • Experience the quieter way of life in Thailand away from the big cities
  • Arrive at the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market by paddleboat
  • Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the iconic Maeklong Railway Market
  • Buy and try authentic pad thai, rice noodle soup, or mango sticky rice
  • Enjoy lots of free time exploring both markets at your own pace

Description

Choose from either a shared group or private guided experience to see 2 iconic markets on a day trip from Bangkok. See a market located on the railway tracks, the Maeklong Railway Market, and a market that floats on the canals at the Damnoen Saduak Market. After pickup, arrive at the Maeklong Railway Market, also known as Talad Rom Hup (“Umbrella Pulldown Market”). Maeklong is one of the largest fresh seafood markets in Thailand and hugs the track of the Maeklong Railway. Gain fascinating insights into how the market is run and what products are sold here from your local guide. Marvel at how market stalls and awnings are pulled back from the tracks every time a train approaches to let the train pass through. Next, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand. To reach the market, take a short ride in a paddleboat. Enjoy plenty of time to meander around the colorful market, where friendly vendors sell directly from their boats. Take in the sights and sounds, and try local specialties like mango sticky rice. Your guide will give you advice on what not to miss. Return to Bangkok in time for the early afternoon.

Includes

Roundtrip air-conditioned transportation from Bangkok Paddle boat Guide Water Hotel pickup (if option selected)

Important Information

  • This product offers several options for pick-up and meeting points. Please check your selected option, meeting point, pick-up zone, and booking time carefully. Early morning options (6:00 am and 6:30 am) are recommended for fewer tourists and more time at both markets. Time : Pick up 5.50 am Drop off MBK Mall 1.30 pm* Pick up 8.00 am Drop off MBK Mall 3.30 pm* River City Bangkok meeting point 6.30 am Drop off MBK 1.30 pm* River City Bangkok meeting point 9.00 am Drop off MBK Mall 3.30 pm* River City Bangkok meeting point 11.00 am Drop off MBK Mall 5.50 pm* Central World meeting point 6.00 am Drop off Central World 1.30 pm* The Old Siam meeting point 8.30 am Drop off The Old Siam 3.30 pm* The Old Siam meeting point 10.30 am Drop off MBK Mall 5.50 pm* * With normal traffic condition Be on time for your booked option. Rescheduling or changing your booking less than 24 hours in advance will incur a fee of 50% of the ticket price.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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