Bangkok, often celebrated as the Big Mango or the City of Angels, carries another lesser-known nickname – the ‘Venice of the East.’ With its intricate network of canals (khlongs) and vibrant water transportation system, it’s easy to see the comparison to Italy’s famed floating city. Along the Chao Phraya River and its meandering waterways lies a treasure trove of sacred sites that reflect Thailand’s rich Buddhist heritage. To make these landmarks more accessible, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration offers free boat tours every weekend, inviting visitors to connect with the city’s spiritual roots.
Running on Saturdays and Sundays, this free boat tour glides through the Bang Lamphu Canal in Phra Nakhon district, operating from 9am to 5pm. Participants can hop on or off at any of five designated stops along the route, including iconic landmarks like Phra Sumen Fort, Norarattana Sathan Bridge, the Shrine of King Taksin the Great, Ban Phan Thom Community Market and Mahakan Fort.
Since this boat tour is centred around making merit, the route includes nine spiritual stops – three shrines and five royal temples.
Three Shrines
- Chao Pho Nu Shrine
- Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Maharat Shrine
- Chao Pho Khao Tok Shrine
Five Royal Temples
- Wat Sangwet Witsayaram Worawihan
- Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
- Wat Parinayok Worawihan
- Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan
- Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan
Beyond these religious landmarks, the canal cruise also offers a chance to explore local life. Along the route, participants will come across intriguing museums, bustling markets and charming community shops. Highlights include the Coin Museum, where you can trace Thailand’s rich monetary history through rare coins, banknotes and interactive exhibits and Patonggo Savoey, a well-loved spot for grabbing a quick snack of crispy Chinese doughnuts served with sweet dipping sauces.
There's no information on how long this tour will be running, but the good news is you don’t need a reservation to join. If you're curious about Bangkok’s ‘Venice of the East’, why not make some weekend plans and give it a go?