Bangkok Explorer

Join Bangkok, Biking the Backstreets

Upon arrival at Bangkok International Airport, you will be met by your driver for a private transfer to your hotel. Please look out for the World Expeditions welcome board as you exit the arrivals hall. After time to check-in, relax and refresh, you will be picked up for your tour which starts at 13:00. Your backstreets bike tour begins in the heart of downtown Bangkok, in the ever vibrant district of Chinatown where alleyways lead into hidden temples, colourful markets spill across roads and modern architecture stands alongside the traditional. Our route stays away from the busy main roads and guides us through the ancient back lanes which feel a million miles from the hectic streets of downtown Bangkok. We stop to visit temples and shrines, try local snacks and learn about the history and culture of this fascinating area. We then cross the Chao Praya River to the quieter, greener Thonburi district before boarding a traditional long tail boat to glide along the narrow khlongs (canals) lined with traditional wooden houses. Overnight: Nouvo City, Deluxe Canal Room

Old Town Discovery Walk & Grand Palace

Visitors often see Bangkok as an enormous modern metropolis, full of expressways, department stores and skyscrapers. However, there is a hidden side, the Old Bangkok, steeped in ancient traditions which we will explore on foot this morning. We start early at the giant swing at Rommaninat Park, the site of a converted former prison. We wander through charming alleys lined with traditional wooden houses with guardian spirit shrines, busy morning markets where locals buy fresh supplies daily and we can try some favourite morning snacks. We’ll enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the real Bangkok, away from the tourist sites. We go on to visit the Lak Mueang (city pillar) housed in a small shrine. Your guide will explain the great importance of this to the Thai people before we then explore the amulet market, its corridors lined with stalls whose only wares are thousands of sacred trinkets bestowed with protections. Following a local lunch, we walk the short distance to visit the spectacular Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1792. This awe-inspiring site with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail is an absolute must-see for visitors to Bangkok. Within the expansive complex are several impressive buildings including the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and just behind it is Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) with its 46m long, gold leafed reclining Buddha. In the evening, there is an optional (additional cost) Foodie Tour. Starting at 18:00, enjoy a mouth-watering guided exploration of Bangkok's 200-year-old China Town district by visiting various tasty eateries, from local favourite sit-on-the-pavement-vendors to lively, characterful restaurants. First we enjoy the magnificent views of the river from a local rooftop bar and enjoy a drink (beer or soft drink) whilst watching the setting sun. We then jump in a tuk-tuk to head deep into Chinatown. You'll be able to sample all kinds of dishes and local drinks like dumplings, fresh seafood, local deserts and many more. Throughout the evening your knowledgeable guide will explain the background to the different dishes and drinks, as well as giving personal insights to life in Bangkok. We cap off the evening with a drink (beer or soft drink) in a lovely open air bar from where you can sit in comfort and watch the excitement of China Town’s vibrant nightlife.Overnight: Nouvo City, Deluxe Canal Room

In Bangkok, trip concludes

The morning is free at leisure until your airport transfer for your outbound flight. Trip concludes