10 Things to Do in Bangkok in September

If you are planning to visit Bangkok in September, there are many things to do. Here I'll tell you which ones you can't miss for nothing

Nicolas Reffray

Nicolas Reffray

9 min read

10 Things to Do in Bangkok in September

Vista de un barco en el rio |© Steven Wilcox

Bangkok in September has endless options for you to have a great time. This time of the year is ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings, as the rainy season is ending and temperatures start to be a bit more pleasant and cooler than in the previous months.

September is an excellent month to enjoy the best things to do in Bangkok, as the tourist influx is usually much lower and prices are lower than in high season. So if you are thinking about when is the best time to visit Bangkok, September is a great option. Join me in this tour of my favorite attractions, those that cannot be left out of any itinerary during that month.

1. Experience Chulalongkorn Day

Chulalongkorn day|©Berthynl
Chulalongkorn day|©Berthynl

Enjoy Chulalongkorn, one of the most important celebrations in Thailand. This popular celebration is held every year on September 23 in the city of Bangkok. It commemorates the anniversary of the death of King Chulalongkorn, also known as King Rama V, who ruled Thailand from 1868 to 1910. It is a public holiday throughout the country, so you will see the streets filled with locals and tourists.

One of the most important Chulalongkorn activities, which I recommend you not to miss, is the wreath laying ceremony, which takes place at the statue of the king, in the square that bears his name. Thais flock to the square to offer flowers and pray for peace and prosperity for the country. There are also street parades, traditional dances and music, where you can soak up the country's culture.

Another popular activity in the Chulalongkorn is the sale of food and handicrafts in the night markets that are set up around the city. Here you will have the opportunity to sample traditional Thai dishes such as pad thai, tom yum and delicious curry.

Definitely one of the best things to do in Bangkok at night. during the month of September. Where you can also buy silk items, jewelry and souvenirs to take home. The Chulalongkorn is a vibrant and colorful celebration that reflects Thailand's rich culture and traditions.

Book a bicycle tour

2. Enjoy all the charm of the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok's main highlights

Grand Palace - Thailand|©cattan2011
Grand Palace - Thailand|©cattan2011

September is an ideal month to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok. This impressive complex of buildings is one of Thailand's main tourist attractions and is located in the heart of the city. The palace was built in 1782 and was the official residence of the Thai monarchy for over 150 years.

One of the main advantages of buying your Bangkok Grand Palace tickets and visiting during the month of September is that the tourist crowds are much smaller. This means you will have more space to explore the buildings and gardens without having to fight the crowds. Also, the weather in September can be a bit cooler than in other months, making it more optimal for outdoor activities.

This is one of the best palaces in Bangkok and a fascinating place, full of history and culture, so if you find yourself in Bangkok in September, don't hesitate to visit.

Book a tour of Bangkok with tickets to the Grand Palace

3. Explore the temples in the city of Bangkok in cooler weather

Wat Phra Sorn Kaew|©rob collins
Wat Phra Sorn Kaew|©rob collins

If you are one of those who are interested in Thai culture and religion, exploring the temples of Bangkok is an activity not to be missed. The city is full, and each has its own history and significance. September, with far fewer tourists than other months, is an ideal time to explore these temples in a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. You can even take more time to appreciate the architectural details and take the pictures you want.

Another advantage of exploring the temples in September is that the temperatures are a little cooler compared to other months. This makes walking around them more comfortable and pleasant. Another important fact is that most temples in Bangkok have a dress code, which includes covering shoulders and legs. In September, it will be more comfortable for you, as temperatures are somewhat cooler.

If you are interested in seeing some of these amazing places, but don't know how to do it, a very practical way is through one of the best temple tours in Bangkok. You will be taken by a guide, who will tell you everything you need to know about each of these sacred buildings.

Book a guided tour in Bangkok

4. Enjoy Thai cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients

food on the table|© Katie Musial
food on the table|© Katie Musial

Bangkok is the perfect place to enjoy delicious Thai cuisine. The city offers a wide variety of dining options, from street food stalls, high-end restaurants and even interesting food tours in Bangkok. As in other parts of the world, dishes are fueled by seasonal foods. September is an ideal month to enjoy Thai food, as most dishes are fresher and tastier at this time of year.

By this time, the rainy season has come to an end and the weather becomes cooler and less humid, resulting in more optimal weather for crops. In addition, many Thai dishes are made with aromatic herbs and spices, which can be obtained at this time of year. And if you are interested in dabbling in different facets of gastronomy you can also take a Thai cooking class in Bangkok, a unique experience.

In Bangkok, there are many places to try Thai food, from street food stalls to gourmet restaurants. September is a good time to try street food, as the weather is optimal for sitting outdoors and enjoying the food. It is also a good time to visit the high-end restaurants, as many of them offer special menus with fresh seasonal ingredients.

Book a Thai cooking class

5. Go shopping in the city's markets

Chatuchak market|©Chris MH
Chatuchak market|©Chris MH

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise. The city has a wide variety of markets, from luxury stores to more traditional markets. September is a good time to go shopping in Bangkok, as many of these places offer special discounts due to the low season. So if you love shopping on your travels, the ninth month of the year is an ideal time to visit Bangkok.

One of the most famous markets in Bangkok is the Chatuchak night market. It is a huge complex, which offers a wide variety of products, from clothing to home decor products. In September many of the stalls offer lower prices on products due to the change of season.

The floating markets are another icon of Thai culture, where you will find a universe of color, aromas and flavors that you cannot miss on your trip. If you want to make the most of them, I recommend you to join one of the best tours of floating markets in Bangkok, to get the most out of your visit.

Book a Bangkok market tour

6. Take a stroll through Lumpini Park and enjoy the outdoors

Lumpini Park|©Greg Gjerdingen
Lumpini Park|©Greg Gjerdingen

Strolling through Lumphini Park is a popular activity in Bangkok, especially in September. This is one of the largest parks in the city and is an ideal place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In September, the weather is much cooler and less humid than the rest of the year.

Lumpini Park is a green oasis in the middle of the city, offering a variety of outdoor activities. You can stroll along the paths, do yoga or tai chi on the grass or just sit and enjoy the scenery. There is also a lake in the center of the park where you can rent a rowboat and spend a romantic moment.

7. See Bangkok from the perspective of the Chao Phraya River

Chao Phraya river|©Uwe Schwarzbach
Chao Phraya river|©Uwe Schwarzbach

Taking a ride on the Chao Phraya river is one of the most popular tours with cruise in Bangkok. The pleasant temperatures of September make it an ideal month to tour this important river artery that crosses the entire city. This is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable and scenic ways to explore the city.

There are many options for a ride on the Chao Phraya River, from sightseeing boats to water cabs. Choose an option that suits your needs and budget. You will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of some of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn. Plus, the ride will give you a different perspective of the city and allow you to see some of Bangkok's lesser-known neighborhoods and areas.

Similarly in September, there are fewer tourists in the city, which means the boats are less likely to be crowded and you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxing ride.

So if you're looking for a unique way to explore Bangkok, taking a ride on the Chao Phraya River is an excellent option. And if you love water activities, I recommend you also consider taking one of the best sightseeing tours on the River Kwai, one of Bangkok's classic postcards.

Book a Chao Phraya River Cruise

8. Attend a traditional Thai dance show

Thai dance|©Natchsasi Saengworanit
Thai dance|©Natchsasi Saengworanit

Attending a traditional Thai dance show is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have in Bangkok, and September is an ideal month to do so. In this month, numerous festivals and cultural events are held in the city, which means you are more likely to be able to find a wider range of dance shows at its various theaters and cultural centers.

Traditional Thai dance is an art form that has been passed down from generation to generation for centuries, and is an integral part of Thai culture. Dance performances often include graceful and elegant movements, colorful costumes and live traditional music. Attending a dance show is a great way to learn more about Thai culture and history.

September evenings feature cooler and less humid weather, making them perfect for attending a dance show or one of the sensational nightly cabaret shows. Also, with fewer tourists in town during this month, you'll have a better chance of getting tickets to popular shows. If you are interested in Thai culture and traditional dances, don't miss the opportunity to attend one of these shows during your visit to Bangkok.

9. Tour the National Museum of Thailand

Bangkok National Museum. Thailand|©Evgenia Guseva
Bangkok National Museum. Thailand|©Evgenia Guseva

Visiting the National Museum of Thailand can be a great way to learn about the history and culture of the country. If you are in Bangkok in September, you will find that the weather is perfect for visiting the museums. Also, with far fewer tourists in the city, you can explore the museum at your leisure and enjoy a much more authentic experience.

The National Museum of Thailand is one of the country's most important museums and houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts dating from prehistoric times to the present day. By visiting, you can learn about the country's history, including the culture of the ancient kingdoms and the influence of other neighboring cultures. You will also see ancient artifacts, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, weapons and jewelry.

In addition, the museum boasts impressive architecture, reflecting the culture and history of Thailand. The main building is a former palace that has been restored. The museum gardens are also a nice place to relax and enjoy a stroll after exploring the various galleries. As you can see, this is an enriching experience in every way.

10. Relax with a Thai massage

woman giving massage|© Conscious Design
woman giving massage|© Conscious Design

Taking a Thai massage is an experience you can't miss during your visit to Bangkok, and September is a perfect month to do it, as you won't have to deal with crowded schedules of other tourists.

Thai massage is a technique that combines acupressure, stretching and various yoga postures. The massage is believed to help improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tension and promote a general sense of well-being throughout the body.

There are many places in Bangkok where you can have a Thai massage, from small street-side venues to authentic luxury spas. Some places offer full body massages, while others focus on specific areas of the body, such as the back or feet.

Also, keep in mind that Thai massages are an important part of the local culture. Having a massage is an incredible experience that will not go unnoticed. During the massage, you may hear Thai music and see traditional Thai decorations and artifacts. Therapists may also use traditional Thai herbs and oils to enhance the massage experience.