Chao Phraya River (Mae Nam Chao Phraya) Tours
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Every great city has a river, and Bangkok’s is the Chao Phraya (Mae Nam Chao Phraya). Alive with traditional long-tail boats, passenger ferries, and cargo boats, the Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of the city. It winds past both ancient temples and modern high-rises, offering a unique, local perspective on the Thai capital.
The Basics
Traveling via the Chao Phraya River is a great way to tour Bangkok while escaping thick city traffic. Most of Bangkok’s main attractions—including the Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), and Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)—are easily accessible from various points along the river. Both Chao Phraya Express boats and converted rice barges ferry visitors to popular city sights. Dinner cruise options abound, complete with live bands and traditional Thai meals, while some small-group boat tours explore the more remote klongs (canal ways) in Thonburi. In addition to traditional sightseeing tours, visitors can tour the night market and the floating market, or try one of many food-based tour options. All offer unique vantages from which to see the city and help visitors avoid the stress of navigating ferry and boat schedules. You can also stay on land and see the river on a tuk-tuk or bicycle tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you’re exploring by day, bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Chao Phraya Express boats can be identified by their orange, green, or yellow flags. Only the orange boat is open every day.
- The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, which can be identified by its blue flag, is usually less crowded—albeit more expensive—than the express boats.
- Some boats leave every five minutes, while others leave every 25 minutes; be sure to check the timetable of your boat before arriving.
How to Get There
The Chao Phraya splits Bangkok vertically into two areas and is a popular way to navigate the city. You can get to the river by taking the BTS Skytrain to Central Pier or Sathorn Bridge Pier. River City Pier, located on the eastern side of the river roughly 20 minutes by road or ferry from the Grand Palace, is also a popular jumping-off point for city tours and dinner cruises. To save the hassle of transportation, opt for a dinner cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
Bangkok is most crowded in November and March due to soccer tourism. March, April, and May are the hottest months, while the rainy season lasts from the end of May through October. The Chao Phraya River is a popular thoroughfare morning, noon, and night. For spectacular city views and the best temperatures, consider early morning or evening sunset cruises.
Exploring Bangkok’s Klongs
When the capital of Thailand moved to Bangkok at the beginning of the Rattanakosin period, European visitors dubbed the new capital “the Venice of the East” for its many canals. Choose a cruise that navigates some of the city’s more remote klongs to see wooden, riverside stilt houses, kids splashing in the river, and some of the city’s colorful and chaotic floating markets.
Address: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok, Ayutthaya Province, Thailand
Admission: Free
Admission Tickets (3)

Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River in Bangkok (Optional Transfers)
Cruise on a luxurious riverboat that will take you on a leisurely ride along the Chao Phraya River.
Settle into a seat in the boat’s comfortable, warmly furnished dining room, or watch the brightly lit Bangkok skyline glide by from the deck.
Cruise slowly along the river, passing under bridges and right in front of two of Bangkok’s most famous riverfront landmarks — the Temple of Dawn, known as Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 17th century, and the Grand Palace, the official residence of the King of Thailand (and historically the King of Siam) since the late 1700s.
When you’re ready to eat, head to the large buffet of Thai dishes and desserts.
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From
$33.55
From
$33.55
263 Tours and Activities to Experience Chao Phraya River (Mae Nam Chao Phraya)
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Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River in Bangkok (Optional Transfers)
Cruise on a luxurious riverboat that will take you on a leisurely ride along the Chao Phraya River.
Settle into a seat in the boat’s comfortable, warmly furnished dining room, or watch the brightly lit Bangkok skyline glide by from the deck.
Cruise slowly along the river, passing under bridges and right in front of two of Bangkok’s most famous riverfront landmarks — the Temple of Dawn, known as Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 17th century, and the Grand Palace, the official residence of the King of Thailand (and historically the King of Siam) since the late 1700s.
When you’re ready to eat, head to the large buffet of Thai dishes and desserts.
…More
From
$33.55
From
$33.55

Bangkok Chao Phraya White Orchid River Cruise(Optional Roundtrip Transfers)
Make it a date night to remember on the White Orchid River Cruise.
Be greeted with a welcome drink as you ease into the fresh tropical breeze.
Admire the sights of the stunning Chao Phraya Riverbank as you dine on deck
Indulge in luxurious Thai cuisine and more dining options in the international buffet.
Dance to the beat of a Bangkok style cabaret show with performers dressed up to the nines.
Guests are served with an assortment of refreshments from coffee, tea, to dessert.
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From
$33.90
From
$33.90

Sala Rim Naam Dinner and Show at Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok
Travel by traditional teak ferry across the scenic Chao Phraya River and set sail on an entertaining evening that includes traditional dance and typical Thai cuisine. You’ll enjoy a set dinner at the Sala Rim Naam Restaurant at Bangkok’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel, while you watch mock battle scenes, folk dances performed live on stage. Enjoy transportation via comfortable private vehicle with optional local guide.
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From
$125.94
Price varies by group size
From
$125.94
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food by Tuk-Tuk
This award-winning night tour by tuk-tuk provides a great introduction to Bangkok for first-time visitors, but it also showcases a side of the city that most repeat visitors haven't seen. You get to bypass heavily trafficked areas and take off-the-beaten-track routes toward illuminated temples such as Wat Pho and a bustling, 24-hour flower market. Enjoy dinner, followed by dessert at a mystery stop. This small-group tour is limited to 12 people.
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From
$76.89
From
$76.89
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Thailand's Ayutthaya Temples and River Cruise from Bangkok
Combine a visit from Bangkok to Ayutthaya—the UNESCO-listed ancient capital of Siam—with a riverboat trip on the Chao Phraya River. An informative guide highlights Thailand’s fascinating history as you explore Ayutthaya temples, stone ruins and Buddha statues in the old capital of Thailand, which was ransacked by invading Burmese in the 18th century. This full-day tour includes lunch and returns you to Bangkok by boat.
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From
$66.84
From
$66.84
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Half-Day Bangkok City Highlights Small-Group Tour with Lunch
See the top sights in Bangkok with a professional guide who shares key details about each place you visit along with the history of Thailand’s capital city. Your guide makes it easy to navigate popular sightseeing destinations including the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the Golden Buddha Temple (Wat Traimit), and Chinatown. Stop for lunch at a scenic riverside restaurant, and have time to browse the shops in Chinatown.
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From
$100.52
From
$100.52
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Bangkok Traditional Dinner Cruise by Loy Nava Including Hotel Transfer
Cruise the Chao Phraya River on an open-air tour boat on this relaxing dinner cruise. Admire the sights and temples from the water at dusk as you experience Bangkok from a different perspective. In addition to a sit down dinner featuring Thai dishes, there’s live music with classical dancing. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
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From
$73.39
From
$73.39

Private Guide In and Around Bangkok: Custom Tour
This customizable private tour showcases the best of Bangkok and beyond. Follow your personal guide through some of the city's top attractions, including Wat Arun Grand Palace, and the Floating Market. Explore some of Bangkok's most vibrant neighborhoods, sample local cuisine (own expense), and wander the shops and sites with a local who offers insight and information along the way.
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From
$59.41
Price varies by group size
From
$59.41
Price varies by group size

Grand Pearl - Luxury Dinner Cruise Experience at Bangkok with Return Transfer
See Bangkok from the water while enjoying traditional Thai food and performances on this luxury dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. A dinner cruise is ideal for food lovers, a date night, and photographers who want to capture the glittering skyline, plus it is the perfect way to escape Bangkok’s crowded streets and get a unique perspective of many of the city’s top attractions.
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From
$69.90
Price varies by group size
From
$69.90
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Manohra Luxurious Dinner Cruise by Anantara Bangkok
Step aboard the luxury Manohra Cruises and discover how the ultimate in stylish cruise comforts meets classic romance in a lovingly restored antique rice barge, accommodating up to 70 guests for a dining cruise or private party.
MENU
-Authentic Thai wild betel leaves with ginger sauce, shallot, Coconut, peanut and Crispy seabass
APPETIZERS
-Prawns and lemongrass with Kaffir lime and Mango
-Deep fried Chicken wrap with Pandan leave and sesame soy sauce
-Crispy Sweet and sour Vermicelli noodle
SOUP
-Aromatic coconut soup with chicken thigh, lemongrass and Kaffir lime leaves, galangal and saw tooth coriander
MAIN
-Fried Tiger prawn with green pepper corn, garlic & chili
-Green curry with Ponyang Kam Beef tenderloin and young coconut shoot
-Stir Fried Crispy Chicken with Onion, Cashew Nut, and Young chili
-Stir fried Chayote Oyster Sauce
DESSERTS
-Khao Neiw Ma Moung Mango & Sweet Sticky Rice Roll
-Black Jelly in Fresh Milk
-Pitied fours & Thai tea
-Assorted Thai sweets
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From
$100.52
From
$100.52
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Ayutthaya Ancient Capital Tour from Bangkok with Grand Pearl River Cruise
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya is a must-visit day trip destination from Bangkok. This tour is the easy way to get there as you won’t have to worry about catching a bus on your own. You’ll spend a whole day touring the archaeological sites, palaces, and temples of the former capital of Thailand. The tour includes a delicious lunch and a river cruise back to Bangkok.
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From
$90.27
From
$90.27
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Bangkok Royal Road - Top 3 Major Monuments (Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat arun)
Visit the 3 major monuments of Bangkok in a half a day tour guided by a certified professionnal:
- The Grand Palace and the Emerald buddha
- Wat Pho Temple
- Wat Arun Temple
And go through China Town and the flower market in 1 tour only.
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From
$77.94
From
$77.94
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

In and around Bangkok Private Tour Guide with Custom Experience
Explore Bangkok with your very own tour guide during this full-day tour. Customize your own itinerary and visit Bangkok’s main attractions and some hidden gems. See the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, the floating market and much more and get around using the city’s incredible public transport system. Experience Bangkok like a local and discover the best the city has to offer.
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From
$55.59
Price varies by group size
From
$55.59
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

The Best of Bangkok Program Discovery: Half or Full Day Tour
Customize your sightseeing itinerary in Bangkok with options for a half- or full-day tour by public or private transportation. Popular destinations include Chinatown, The Grand Palace, and Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River, or you can venture out to attractions such as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market or Chatuchak Weekend Market. With your own private guide you can easily plan a day suited to your interests.
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From
$101.10
Price varies by group size
From
$101.10
Price varies by group size

Shore Excursion from Laem Chabang Port: Bangkok Shopping, Massage & Food Tasting
At the moment your ship touches down at Laem Chabang Port, your experience should start, our guides awaits you with your paging at the exit point of the pier. But City is still 109 Km away so sit back at your private air conditioned vehicle and enjoy the surrounding.
Take your private time to see the most popular landmark Temples “Golden Buddha” “Wat Arun” followed by city interesting points- China Town, Indian Town, Flower Market. Visit the local Thai Restaurant by the river and shop till you like at JJ mall – A local shopping center in Bangkok, Are you tired ? do not worry we have Thai Massage 1 hour for you, Maximized your experience when you are in Bangkok at shore excursion sightseeing tour, which includes round-trip private transportation and a friendly local guide.
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From
$210.57
Price varies by group size
From
$210.57
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Royal Grand Palace and Bangkok Temples: Half Day Tour
Explore Bangkok’s most important cultural sights on a half-day private tour of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Traimit. Learn about the country’s royal heritage as you explore the palace, whose elaborate stepped roofs are the height of Siamese design. Visit the funeral and coronation halls, and see the sacred Buddha carved from solid jade. Circle the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho then stroll cool halls lined with hundreds of Buddha images. Continue to Wat Traimit to see a centuries-old golden Buddha, and leave an offering in the gleaming sanctuary.
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From
$112.38
Price varies by group size
From
$112.38
Price varies by group size

Wan Fah Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River
See a different view of the Bangkok skyline on a riverboat cruise along the Chao Phraya River. This dinner excursion takes you away from the noise and traffic of Bangkok’s crowded streets and lets you relax in a tranquil environment as you cruise through the city and take in the sites along the way.
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From
$48.97
From
$48.97
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess River Dinner Cruise (Optional Roundtrip Transfers)
Take in Bangkok's most famous and sacred landmarks from a scenic viewpoint: aboard the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise, swiftly gliding the night. For a unique cruise ride, the dinner cruise features a grandiose buffet with your favorite Thai dishes, as well as a selection of international treats, spread out for your enjoyment. Along with a live band to grace your dinner with throwback tunes and a dose of nostalgia, the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise promises no less than an entertaining and memorable night for sure. Take on the journey with friends, family, and/or your partner: folks of all ages are welcome!
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From
$39.67
From
$39.67

Bangkok Airport Layover Special : Touch of Thailand 8 Hours Transit Tour
Transit passengers who have to wait at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport between 6 to 8 hours can take a brief tour of Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. This will be a better way of spending time, sight-seeing while waiting for your flight. To many, it could be the only one stop-over to this city in a very long while. Our delicate tour guide and driver will make it worth for you.
Bangkok is a city of angels where happiness is scattered naturally. Our City orientation tours will take you to experience a cultural of amazing Thailand.
• Explore Bangkok city during your transit
• Palace, Temples, Museum
• Bangkok City Sightseeing
• Boat trip along the river & canals (Optional)
• Shopping
• Massage & Spa
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From
$178.02
From
$178.02
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Experience Real Bangkok by Bike
Spend three hours exploring Bangkok by bike on this popular tour that puts travelers right up close to the action. Venture down the narrow alleyways of Chinatown. Cruise through markets and backstreets and explore Thonburi with your professional guide who will point out all the highlights and attractions of this dynamic city.
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From
$33.20
From
$33.20

Private Tour : Bangkok Night Tour and Street food By Tuk Tuk and Boat
This Trip will show you how beautiful Bangkok Night Time on the River and enjoys with street food by Tuk Tuk and Boat
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From
$113.58
Price varies by group size
From
$113.58
Price varies by group size

Colors of Bangkok
Discover Bangkok on a half-day cycling tour of the city’s most intriguing neighborhoods. Explore quiet, winding streets lined with coconut palms and banana trees, far from busy thoroughfares and tourist districts. Cycle over the canals of the Chao Phraya River, explore Bang Krachao Island, see Buddhist temples, and watch students train in traditional Muay Thai fighting. Dine alongside residents at a neighborhood restaurant, and experience Bangkokian warmth and generosity at every turn.
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From
$38.08
$12.69 savings
From
$38.08
$12.69 savings
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

An Authentic Trail through Bangkok
Get a firsthand look at the scenic life along Bangkok’s waterways during a 4-hour tour by long-tail boat. You'll journey down the legendary Chao Phraya River and cruise along the tributary canals, or 'khlongs,' of Thonburi. You have the option to upgrade to a boat tour for your private party. Transport is included from downtown hotels.
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From
$62.83
Price varies by group size
From
$62.83
Price varies by group size

Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems™: Best of Bangkok PRIVATE Tour
See both the popular and lesser-known sights of Bangkok on this half-day private tour. With a private guide, get a glimpse of daily life in Bangkok as you visit temples and a market, take a tuk-tuk ride, and listen to stories about the city. Starting time is flexible based on your preferences.
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From
$96.02
Price varies by group size
From
$96.02
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Bangkok’s Waterways and Royal Residence
Experience the glory and grandeur of royal Bangkok on a half-day tour to the Grand Palace and the Thonburi Klongs. First, cruise the scenic ‘klongs’ (canal ways) of Thonburi, see waterfront landmarks like the Royal Barges Museum and Wat Arun, and get a glimpse of everyday life in the former capital district. Then, explore the Grand Palace of Bangkok and admire the Emerald Buddha in Wat Phra Kaew, one of Thailand’s most precious religious icons. Choose from a private or small-group tour, with hotel pick-up and entrance fees included.
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From
$96.42
Price varies by group size
From
$96.42
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Venice of the East : Rice Barge River Cruise in Bangkok Admission Ticket
Enjoy a speedy and refreshing long-tailed speedboat ride down the river and the multitude of winding canals which earned Bangkok the title of -Venice of the East-. The excursion offers a view of authentic riverside lifestyles, such as houses on stilts and children playing in the water. The return journey is on a sedate converted rice barge. Guests will be served seasonal fruits and unlimited cold drinks as they enjoy a relaxed cruise along the -River of Kings. This half-day trip gives a view of Bangkok that most never get to see. Note: The tour is only operated in the afternoon.
• Explore Bangkok along the iconic Chao Phraya river
• A river tour atop the popular Thai rice barge
• Insightful understanding of local Thai river lifestyle
• Photo-taking opportunity along the canals of Thonburi
• Tropical fruit tasting on the rice barge
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From
$36.21
From
$36.21
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Half-Day Bangkok Bike Tour Including Lunch
Experience another side of Bangkok on a 4.5-hour bicycle tour with a professional guide. Travel off the beaten path along quiet back roads to places that most tourists don’t see. Ride at an easy pace with frequent stops for refreshments, photo ops, and sightseeing at temples, schools and more. You’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch of Thai dishes and visit a local market.
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From
$43.69
From
$43.69
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas