Top 5 things to Do in Khao San Road

Khao San Road, famously known as Bangkok’s backpacker haven, is a vibrant hub of culture, food, and entertainment. Whether you’re here for the buzzing nightlife, authentic Thai street food, or to soak in the city’s creative energy, this iconic street offers endless experiences.

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Khao San Road, we’ve got you covered. From sampling flavorful street eats and exploring nearby temples to chilling at rooftop bars, here are the 5 best things to do in Khao San Road to make your Bangkok trip truly unforgettable.

1. Thai Food and Street Food

The First things to do in Khao San Road is about Street Food. Street food in Thailand is incredibly delicious and reasonably priced, especially around Khao San Road. For food enthusiasts, We highly recommend trying these must-try dishes!

Spring Rolls – Fried spring rolls are a popular snack available everywhere in Bangkok, including Khao San Road. You’ll spot them easily while strolling around. Feeling hungry when traveling? Just grab some!
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) – A signature dish at every restaurant. You can also find it easily on Khao San Road. If you’re craving something spicy while exploring, grab a bowl of Tom Yum Goong and enjoy it!
Coconut Ice Cream – After enjoying the taste of spicy food, finish off with some refreshing coconut ice cream. Not only does it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also cools you down – especially in hot weather of Thailand, making it the perfect choice.
Pork Congee – A popular late-night meal after a wild party. No matter how much you’ve partied, many end the night with a warm bowl of congee. Whether you like it with pork, with or without egg, or even with all the toppings, it’s a comforting choice.
Grilled Pork Skewers (Moo-ping)– No Thai street food scene is complete without grilled pork skewers. Perfect for any time of day – morning, noon, or night.
Mango Sticky Rice – A classic Thai dessert found all over Bangkok, even outside mango season. If you love the mix of sweet, creamy, and salty flavors. You’ll find it easily on Khao San Road.
Pad Thai – Pad Thai and Khao San Road go hand in hand. Wherever you walk, you’ll come across a stall or restaurant selling it. When in doubt about what to eat, Pad Thai is always a safe bet.

For a truly unique dining experience in Bangkok, visit TANI.BKK Restaurant & Bar, one of the best restaurants in Khao San Road. Here, you’ll discover creative interpretations of traditional Thai cuisine, blended with smoky grill flavors that define what we proudly call “Modern Authentic Thai.”

Our all-day dining restaurant and bar draw inspiration from deep Thai roots while infusing light touches of international flair — creating a warm and contemporary space where you can indulge in exquisite culinary creations, signature cocktails, and one of the best selections of Thai craft beer in Bangkok.

Whether you’re seeking an elegant dinner, a casual lunch, or a relaxed drink with friends, TANI.BKK Restaurant & Bar offers a memorable dining experience that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Khao San Road.

2. Sip Cocktails at Sanay Rooftop Bar

Ring in 2025 with style and excitement in Bangkok! Known for its electric energy, scenic skyline views, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok is one of the most spectacular places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Thailand. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous rooftop celebration or a riverside countdown filled with fireworks, the city offers countless ways to welcome the new year.

From lively Bangkok rooftop bars to stunning Chao Phraya River fireworks, here are the 6 best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Bangkok — including the exciting countdown at Sanay Rooftop Bar, located at The Gravitique Hotel Khao San, where you can enjoy panoramic city views, handcrafted cocktails, and the ultimate festive atmosphere.

3. Visit Nearby Temples

Just a short distance from Khao San Road, you’ll find some of Bangkok’s most beautiful temples:

Wat Arun : A beautiful temple near chao praya river, main river of thailand
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara: A royal temple with stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Wat Chana Songkhram: Known for its peaceful ambiance and intricate designs.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha): A 15-minute walk away, this iconic site is a must-see for its history and grandeur.

4. Release Yourself with a Thai Massage

For a grand celebration, ICONSIAM hosts Bangkok’s most spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the Chao Phraya River and the skyline. This riverside location features food vendors, live music, and entertainment, drawing large crowds for a high-energy countdown. With plenty of photo opportunities and a fantastic view of the fireworks, ICONSIAM is ideal for families and friends alike. You can also book a river cruise for a luxurious way to see the fireworks from the water.

5. Shop Till You Drop

Shopping is another things to do in Khao San Road. Khao San Road is a shopping paradise where you can find everything from souvenirs to bohemian clothes. Bargaining is a must! Don’t hesitate to haggle with vendors to get the best deals.

Is It Worth Visiting Khao San Road?

Absolutely! Khao San Road offers a unique blend of culture, food, and nightlife that caters to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker or a family vacationing in Bangkok, this lively street has something for everyone.

Why Is Khao San Road So Famous?

Khao San Road gained popularity as a budget-friendly hub for backpackers in the 1980s. Today, it’s a melting pot of cultures, known for its vibrant street parties, eclectic food scene, and easy access to Bangkok’s attractions.

Is Khao San Road a Red Light District?

No, Khao San Road is not a red-light district. While it’s known for its nightlife, the area is more about lively bars, street performances, and backpacker-friendly vibes.

How to Get to Khao San Road

Although Bangkok has an extensive BTS Skytrain system, it doesn’t reach all areas, including Khao San Road. To get there by Skytrain, you would need to travel to the Saphan Taksin BTS Station and then transfer to a boat.

S1 Bus – From Suvarnabhumi Airport: If you’re coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport, take the S1 bus from the first floor of the passenger terminal. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, and the bus will drop you directly at Khao San Road, so no transfers are needed.
A4 Bus – From Don Mueang Airport: Take the A4 bus from the first floor of either Terminal 1 (Exit 6) or Terminal 2 (Exits 12 and 14). The journey to Khao San Road takes about 45 minutes.
Boat – From Sathorn Pier: Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station and head to Sathorn Pier to catch a boat to Tha Phra Arthit Pier. The boats depart every 2-3 minutes and the trip takes about 35 minutes.

Once you arrive at Khao San Road, you can easily walk around and explore the area. The shops and attractions are all within walking distance, making it very convenient to get around.

Sukhumvit vs. Khao San Road: Which Is Better?

Sukhumvit: Upscale and civilization, high-end dining, and trendy nightclubs.
Khao San Road: Budget-friendly and vibrant, with street food, affordable accommodations, and a backpacker vibe.

Choose based on your travel style—Sukhumvit for civilization and convenience, Khao San Road for adventure and cultural immersion.

Looking for things to do in Khao San Road during your stay in Bangkok?
This lively neighborhood in the heart of Bangkok Old Town is famous for its vibrant street life, local markets, delicious Thai food, and colorful nightlife scene. Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Khao San Road has something for everyone.

For travelers seeking accommodation in the heart of old Bangkok, The Gravitique Hotel offers an upscale experience amidst the rich heritage of the Royal and Arts districts. Located steps from the lively Khao San Road, Book Now to make the most of your Thailand experience.