The 7 Best Outdoor Activities in Bangkok

Bangkok is a vibrant, chaotic and bustling city, but it also knows how to surprise with open spaces, cycling routes and excursions that take you away from the traffic and hustle and bustle. If the heat and humidity worry you, don't worry: many of these activities are ideal for morning or evening, when the weather is milder. Ready to explore Bangkok in the great outdoors? Here are some of the best experiences.

The Chao Phraya River is the backbone of Bangkok, and cruising along it by boat is one of the most magical ways to discover the city. You can hop on a dinner cruise to watch the temples and skyscrapers light up as night falls. While enjoying the breeze and a traditional Thai dinner, you'll see iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace from a unique perspective.

If you think Bangkok is not bike-friendly, think again. There are guided tours that take you through traditional neighbourhoods, floating markets and hidden trails away from the traffic. Cycling through the city's backstreets allows you to discover its authentic side and connect with local life. It's a great option for those who want to get around and explore without missing a beat.

Just an hour from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a must-see destination for history and architecture lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site of temples and ruins will transport you back to the golden age of the kingdom of Siam. Walking among the ancient brick pagodas and seeing the famous Buddha's head trapped in the roots of a tree is an unforgettable experience.

There is no more authentic experience than touring a floating market in Bangkok. At Damnoen Saduak, vendors offer exotic fruits, street food and souvenirs from their small boats. For something even more surprising, visit the Mae Klong market, where stalls pull away in seconds to let the train pass. A perfect combination of tradition and adrenaline.

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Bangkok has several parks where you can unwind. Lumphini Park, Bangkok's 'Central Park', is an oasis with lakes, trails and huge monitor lizards roaming freely. You can also visit Benjakitti Park, with its waterside promenade and panoramic views of the city skyline.

Known as the 'green lung of Bangkok', Bang Krachao is an island in the river that looks like something out of another world. There are no skyscrapers or traffic, just paths surrounded by greenery, canals and traditional Thai houses. You can cycle or walk around it and visit local markets where you can sample homemade Thai sweets.

Bangkok's canals or 'khlongs' are like the city's back streets, and a traditional boat tour is the best way to discover them. You'll see hidden temples, wooden houses on stilts and scenes of daily life away from the more touristy areas. It's a journey into Bangkok's past, when water was the main mode of transport.

Bangkok has much more to offer than shopping malls and skyscrapers. Get out there and discover the city from another perspective. Which of these activities will you try first?