Galleries and Museums in Bangkok: Which should you visit?

Bangkok is a city that never stops surprising. It’s a fabulous mix of ancient traditions and modern energy with a new find around every corner. As a former librarian with a lifelong love of exploring collections, I was thrilled to discover the incredible galleries and museums in Bangkok. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, the city’s museum scene has something for everyone. In this post, I’ll share my favorite spots and why I think they’re worth a visit.

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What are the best museums to visit in Bangkok?

Once I started researching the museums in Bangkok, I was surprised by the sheer number; it was pretty overwhelming. I have tried to offer a blend of Thailand’s past and present, art, and culture on the list below. From Royal exhibits to obscure museums that would appeal to a very unique audience.

Each museum here offers a unique story, providing interesting and engaging insights, from ancient artifacts to modern art. Choosing a couple to visit is a fabulous way to understand the city’s diverse heritage.

These are in no particular order, I decided to start with the one I found the most informative and knew least about before my visit.

Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall

Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall offers a unique and in-depth look at Bangkok’s history. This interactive museum uses multimedia displays to bring the Rattanakosin era to life. This one is a bit of a sleeper but talk to anyone who has been and they will tell you it’s a must. I agree! While it’s a guided tour only entry means you can’t pop in for a quick visit, the two-hour experience is well worth it.

The museum offers two guided tours that last for two hours, unless you have lots of time, we recommend choosing one.

Route 1 covers a broad spectrum of topics, including ceremonies, architecture, and entertainment. It’s well suited to first time visitors. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, it seems to offer a comprehensive overview.

Route 2 focuses on two specific themes. Given our familiarity with Bangkok, we opted for this route.

The Color Thai Way of Living hall offers a journey through the evolution of Thai life, from traditional customs to modern living. The exhibit features immersive experiences like a simulated boat ride and informative videos. Witnessing the transition from waterways to roads, and from candlelight to electricity, provides a unique perspective on Thailand’s development.

The Heart and Soul of the Nation hall delves into Thai identity, helping me understand the royal family’s role and the country’s journey to independence. Learning about the kings and their achievements was truly interesting. This section is excellent for gaining a deeper appreciation of Thai culture and history.

I recommend allocating at least two hours for this museum. The interactive elements aren’t cutting edge but the rich content and immersive experiences make it a rewarding visit. I plan to return to explore Route 1.

Location: 100 Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, Bowonniwet, Phra Nakhon
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-7pm
Entry Fee: 100 THB, free for anyone over 60 years old. 
Nearest Public Transport: The Saen Saep canal boat is the easiest route or take a bus to Democracy Monument.

The National Museum: A Dive Into Thailand’s Rich History

As Thailand’s premier museum, the Bangkok National Museum, established by King Rama V, houses displays ranging from ancient Siamese artifacts to contemporary Thai art. 

The museum’s permanent collection includes the Phra Buddha Sihing, a revered Buddha statue from the Sukhothai period.

Must-see exhibits:

• The Kings’ Gallery showcases the evolution of Thai art and culture through various dynastic periods. It features royal regalia, weaponry, and decorative arts. The gold throne collection is impressive.
  
• The Red House (Tamnak Daeng) is a traditional Thai teak house that belonged to a princess from the reign of King Rama I. It offers insights into royal life and architecture.

The museum offers informative English explanations for its exhibits but may not be engaging for young children due to its lack of interactive elements. History lovers will find plenty to explore and can easily spend several hours delving into the collections.

If you only have time for one museum, I wouldn’t choose this one.

Tip: Eat before you visit because the cafe only offers basic drinks and pastries.

Location: Na Phra That Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Entry Fee: 200 THB
Nearest Public Transport: Tha Chang Pier (Chao Phraya Express Boat) 

Museum Siam: Interactive Fun For All Ages

Museum Siam is a must-visit for anyone interested in Thai culture and identity. This interactive museum brings the past to life through engaging displays covering everything from ancient civilizations to modern-day Thailand. Its hands-on exhibits and multimedia experiences make learning about the city’s history engaging and fun.

The Museum of Siam’s permanent collection includes some really fun exhibits:

• The “Decoding Thainess” exhibit is great for families or those who prefer lively museums. It explores Thai identity through food, language, and traditions.
• Another popular exhibit is “Bangkok Today,” which offers a snapshot of the city’s modern life, juxtaposed with historical contexts.
• The “Colonial Time” exhibit explores Thailand’s interactions with Western powers and its path to modernisation.

We loved our afternoon here and think this is a great museum for families or anyone wanting an overview of Thai culture.

Tip: Museum Siam is a short walk from Wat Pho and a great escape from the midday heat.

Location: 4 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-6pm
Entry Fee: 100 THB – Free under 15 years and over 60 years old 
Nearest Public Transport: Sanam Chai MRT Station (Blue Line) exits directly to the museum or from Rajinee Pier its a 300m walk. 

Jim Thompson House: Unravelling The Mystery

Jim Thompson House is a captivating blend of history, art, and mystery. The former residence of the enigmatic American entrepreneur who revived Thailand’s silk industry, this architectural gem showcases traditional Thai design.

The house is

• The Jim Thompson House is a treasure trove of Southeast Asian art and antiquities, from rare Chinese porcelain to Thai carvings and Buddhist sculptures.
• The collection includes Buddhist sculptures and paintings depicting life in Thailand and neighbouring countries.
• The tours provide detailed stories behind the artifacts, offering a deeper understanding of Thompson’s passion for art and his impact on the Thai silk industry. 

Tip: Entry to the house is only through guided tours offered in English, Japanese, Chinese, and French. Booking isn’t necess ary, but be prepared for a potential wait. While waiting for your tour, explore the grounds and shop at the onsite store. Combine this with a visit to BACC (below) which is five minutes away.

Location: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm
Entry Fee: 200 THB for adults, 100 THB for students (10-21 years) 
Nearest Public Transport: National Stadium BTS Station (Dark Green Line) 

Erawan Museum: Mythology And Sculptures

The Erawan Museum is an extraordinary sight. The iconic three-headed elephant statue you can glimpse from the BTS is just the beginning. Inside, this architectural marvel houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts, antiques, and fine art.

The Erawan Museum’s interior is as impressive as its exterior. It’s divided into three levels, symbolizing the underworld, earth, and heaven.

• The basement level, known as the Underworld, features ceramics and pottery from Asian cultures. The Earth level, or main hall houses religious artifacts, including Hindu god statues and Buddhist relics.
• The second level is the earth. The highlight is the beautifully decorated stained glass ceiling.
• The real magic happens on the top level, where a breathtaking stained glass ceiling dominates the space. This celestial realm is filled with rare artifacts and statues representing the Buddhist cosmos.

The Erawan Museum is an unusual site in Bangkok. It’s a day trip from the city but reachable by the BTS. You can combine it with a visit to the nearby Ancient City.

Tip: Audio guides are available in Thai, English, Chinese, Korean and Russian.

Location: 99/9 Moo 1 Sukhumvit Road, Bang Muang Mai, Samut Prakan
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: 400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children
Nearest Public Transport: Chang Erawan BTS Station (Green line) 

MOCA Bangkok: Modern Art Extravaganza

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok is fabulous! The collection is a must for modern art lovers. It features the best of Thai contemporary art and interesting international pieces.

MOCA Bangkok’s permanent collection includes:

• A number of works by renowned Thai artists like Chalermchai Kositpipat and Thawan Duchanee, whose pieces explore themes of Thai culture, religion, and identity.
• The “World of Illusions” exhibit features surreal and abstract art that challenges perceptions and provokes thought.
• The museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures and installations, reflecting traditional Thai motifs and modern artistic expressions.

Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Chatuchak Market. We went to the Friday night market, which is smaller, more local, and less crowded than the Saturday and Sunday market.

Location: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Road, Chatuchak
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-6pm
Entry Fee: 280 THB for adults, 120 THB for students 
Nearest Public Transport: MoChit BTS Station or Chatuchak MRT Station. Take a bus or taxi from there.

Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC) Contemporary Masterpieces

BACC is the hub of contemporary art in Bangkok. It hosts exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and workshops.

BACC’s permanent collection includes contemporary artworks from Thai and international artists.

• The “Thai Eyes” exhibit showcases modern Thai art, reflecting the country’s cultural and social changes. Another highlight is the “Global Perspectives” collection, featuring works from international artists that engage with global themes and ideas.
• The centre often features interactive installations and has a dedicated space for experimental and digital art.

The BACC’s wide-ranging collection and lively schedule make it essential for contemporary art lovers.

Visiting here is easy to fit into your shopping day and makes you feel you have done something cultural for the day.

Location: 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Nearest Public Transport: National Stadium BTS Station (Dark green line) 

Bangkok National Gallery: A Journey Through Thai Art

The Bangkok National Gallery is situated in a former royal mint and is dedicated to the history of Thai art, from traditional to contemporary.

The gallery’s permanent collection spans several periods of Thai art history.

• One of the key highlights is the collection of traditional Thai paintings, including exquisite examples of mural art and detailed illustrations from classical Thai literature.
• The modern section features works by prominent Thai artists like Silpa Bhirasri, the father of modern Thai art, and contemporary pieces that reflect current social and political themes.
• The gallery also hosts rotating exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to see.

The mix of historical and contemporary art provides a comprehensive overview of Thailand’s rich artistic heritage. 

Location: 4 Chao Fa Road, Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am-4pm
Entry Fee: 200 THB
Nearest Public Transport: Phra Arthit Pier (Chao Phraya Express Boat)

Bangkokian Museum: A Glimpse Into Local Life

The Bangkokian Museum, also known as the Bangkok Folk Museum, offers a unique look into the everyday life of Bangkok residents in the early 20th century. If you enjoy history and learning how people lived in the past, this is the museum for you.

The museum comprises three preserved houses filled with period furniture and belongings of a local family.

• The main house features antique furniture, photographs, and artifacts that illustrate the lifestyle of middle-class Bangkokians during that era.
• The second house showcases traditional Thai kitchenware and tools.
• The last house has a display of old medical equipment and memorabilia.

Touring these homes offers a fascinating glimpse into Bangkok’s domestic life and culture. If you enjoy local history and heritage, you’ll like the Bangkokian.

Location: 273 Charoen Krung Road, Bang Rak
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 10am-4pm
Entry Fee: Free
Nearest Public Transport: Hua Lamphong MRT Station

The next two quirky museums are in the same area.

The Royal Barges National Museum: Regal And Opulent

The Royal Barges National Museum houses Thailand’s magnificent royal barges, used in ceremonial processions along the Chao Phraya River.

The museum’s permanent collection includes intricately decorated barges, each with a unique design and historical significance.

• The most famous barge, Suphannahong, is a stunning gold vessel shaped like a mythical swan and used exclusively by the king.
• Another highlight is the Narai Song Suban, a barge adorned with carvings of the Hindu god Vishnu riding a Garuda. 
• The exhibits include detailed barge models, historical photos, and descriptions of royal barge processions.

Visiting the museum offers a rare opportunity to see these opulent vessels up close and learn about their role in Thai royal ceremonies. It’s been a few years since I visited but I’ll go again soon and see if anything has changed.

Location: 80/1 Arun Amarin Road, Siriraj, Bangkok Noi
Opening Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Entry Fee: 100 THB
Nearest Public Transport: Thonburi Railway Station or Wang Lang Pier (Chao Phraya Express Boat)

Siriraj Medical Museum: Quirky And Fascinating

If you have a squeamish stomach, you might want to skip this. The Siriraj Medical Museum, also known as the Museum of Death or the forensic museum, offers a fascinating and eerie look at medical science.

The Siriraj Medical Museum is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of medical science.

• The Ellis Pathological Museum features preserved specimens illustrating diseases and medical conditions.
• The Congdon Anatomical Museum showcases human anatomical specimens, offering a detailed look at human physiology.
• The Songkran Niyomsane Forensic Medicine Museum provides insights into forensic science and famous criminal cases.
• The Parasitology Museum displays parasites that affect humans, highlighting public health and hygiene.

The exhibits provide insight into the history and development of medical science.

Tip: Visit in the morning and head to Wang Lang Market for lunch. It’s a fabulous place to explore and eat local food. 

Location: 2 Wang Lang Road, Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok Noi
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: 200 THB
Nearest Public Transport: Wang Lang Pier (Chao Phraya Express Boat)

Planning Your Visit: Tips For the best experience

The city’s museums are spread across the city, which makes for great mini-excursions into different neighbourhoods. Perhaps it’s a cool food market, a gorgeous temple or a beautiful park. 

Bangkok’s heat can surprise visitors, so these museums are a fun way to learn about Thailand’s culture and history and escape the weather. The air-conditioned interiors provide respite from Bangkok’s tropical climate.

• Time your visit: Check the days they close and also last admission time. I usually visit museums in the middle of the day, they can be crowded as everyone wants to escape the heat but not always. I’m often here in the quieter rainy season, so it’s not a big deal, but if you’re visiting in high season arrive a little earlier to avoid crowds.
• Check the museum’s website for special exhibition schedules or closures.
• Most Bangkok museums offer guided tours or pamphlets. Don’t skip them, they enrich your experience. If there are no translations, use the Google Translate app.
• Taking breaks, like grabbing coffee, can help sustain energy.
• Respect the exhibits and photography rules to preserve their quality and integrity.

If you have questions or would like to share your own experiences, please head over to our Facebook Group, Thailand Obsessed.

I hope you enjoy learning about Thailand at these museums. Each offers insights into the city’s history, culture, and art. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or curious, exploring Bangkok’s museums is a rewarding way to delve into the heart and soul of this city.