Thai Riviera – Cruising Bangkok’s Chao Phraya

One of the most unique and beautiful things about Bangkok is the fact that it’s located on the banks of the river Chao Phraya.

This means the city gets a natural and efficient transport system with well managed waterways.

To the visitor, this also translates into magnificent views and romantic dining options by the riverfront.

Even if you are short on time, exploring Bangkok in a day doesn’t seem like a crazy idea thanks to the Chao Phraya Express Boat service that offers unlimited hop-on-hop-off rides across the tourist belt for just ฿ 180 (₹ 360 / $5), along with a nifty pocket guidebook (Free PDF download also available) and a guided audio tour.

i spent an evening exploring the tastefully done Yodpiman River Walk, since i didn’t have enough time on my last trip – but it’s very easily possible to cover key attractions like Wat Arun, The Royal Temple, Royal Barges National Museum and shopping + leisure zones like Yodpiman, River City, Asiatique, the brand new IconSIAM, Lhong 1919 and more… in the most uniquely Thai way of exploring Bangkok.

 

Another view of the #ChaoPhraya #river in #Bangkok from Mango Tree at @YodpimanRiverWalk #Thailand #DiscoverThainess #TBEXAsia

A photo posted by Exotic Gringo (Kaushal) (@exoticgringo) on Oct 18, 2015 at 5:31am PDT

 

Table with a view! Loved the gorgeous setting at Mango Tree at @YodpimanRiverWalk in #Bangkok #Thailand for a great meal + view of the Chao Phraya #river and magnificent Wat Arun temple (currently under renovation). #bkkstuff #tbexasia

A photo posted by Exotic Gringo (Kaushal) (@exoticgringo) on Oct 18, 2015 at 5:27am PDT

Chao Phraya Express Boat Timings:

Weekdays: 6 am – 8 pm
Weekends: 6 am – 7 pm

Further Reading:

Bangkok.com Guide to the Chao Phraya Boat Express

Thailand Tourism: Drift Trip in Chao Phraya 

TIP: For shorter, quicker journeys from pier-to-pier, you could also take a ‘orange flag’ boat for just ฿15 per journey.

Personally, I would NOT recommend this as for tourists unless necessary, since it (a) burdens the locals who rely on it as a primary means of public transport and (b) isn’t as comfortable as the Tourist Boat, where you’ll almost always get a seat.