Things To Do
in Samut Prakan

Samut Prakan is a province located just south of Bangkok, known for its rich history and proximity to the capital. It features a mix of modern urban life and traditional Thai culture, making it an interesting destination for travelers. Visitors can explore unique attractions such as ancient temples and vibrant markets, while also enjoying the serene beauty of the Chao Phraya River.

The province is also famous for its seafood, particularly in the coastal areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ancient City (Muang Boran), a vast outdoor museum showcasing replicas of Thailand's historical monuments.

afternoon
:

Head to Wat Asokaram, an impressive temple known for its serene environment and stunning architecture. Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant, followed by a stroll along the riverbank to enjoy the night views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Bang Pu Recreation Center, where you can watch migratory birds and enjoy the seaside.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour to explore the nearby mangroves and observe local wildlife. Have a picnic lunch amidst nature.

evening
:

Return to the city and experience the local market scene, sampling street food and shopping for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Street Food Meal$1-3
🍽️Restaurant Meal$5-15
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$25-100
🍺Beer in Bar$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisines
  • Less touristy compared to Bangkok
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Traffic congestion during rush hours
  • Language barrier in some areas
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Samut Prakan

Visit one of these nice places.

Ancient City

A sprawling outdoor museum filled with replicas of Thailand's most famous landmarks, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Wat Asokaram

This serene temple offers picturesque architecture and tranquil surroundings ideal for photography.

Bang Pu Recreation Center

A scenic spot where you can photograph the sunset over the sea, with the backdrop of migratory birds.

Culinary Guide

Food in Samut Prakan

Samut Prakan offers a delightful culinary experience with its wide range of local dishes that reflect the region's coastal heritage.

Samut Prakan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pla Pao

Grilled fish coated in salt served with spicy dipping sauce, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Must-Try!

Pad Thai

Famous Thai stir-fried noodles, usually served with shrimp, tofu, or chicken, garnished with peanuts and lime.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bang Pu Seafood Market

A bustling market known for its fresh seafood, where you can enjoy dishes prepared right in front of you.

Pak Nam Market

Offers a variety of street food vendors selling local delicacies and snacks, perfect for food enthusiasts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Samut Prakan enjoys a tropical climate with three main seasons: a dry season from November to February, a hot season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. The dry season features cooler temperatures averaging between 20-30°C (68-86°F), while the hot season can see temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F). The rainy season brings monsoonal rains, with humidity levels rising significantly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Avoid physical contact with monks, especially women; always give way to them in public spaces.

Wai Greeting

A traditional Thai greeting; a slight bow with hands pressed together is appreciated, especially when meeting locals.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Samut Prakan is generally safe for travelers, but typical precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items in public and be cautious in crowded areas. It is advisable to use reputable transportation services and to stay in well-lit areas at night.

Tipping in Samut Prakan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

While not mandatory, a tip of 10% is appreciated in restaurants; small change is often sufficient for street vendors.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas; ensure to carry some cash for markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cooler temperatures make it a pleasant time to visit, with less humidity and plenty of outdoor activities.

Hot Season (March to May)

Expect high temperatures; it's advisable to stay hydrated and explore indoor attractions during the peak heat.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Frequent rain showers can occur; plan for indoor activities and don't forget an umbrella.

Festive Season (December)

Experience vibrant local festivals and events, especially around the New Year and Loy Krathong.

Nightlife Guide

Samut Prakan at Night

Samut Prakan's nightlife scene is relatively laid-back compared to Bangkok, featuring a mix of local bars, night markets, and seafood restaurants. There are a few pubs and clubs that cater to both locals and tourists, providing a fun atmosphere for socializing. Live music and cultural performances can often be found, particularly on weekends, making it a relaxed yet enjoyable experience.

Hiking in Samut Prakan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koh Larn Hiking Trail

Located on Koh Larn island, this trail offers stunning coastal views and is ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking for a day trip from Samut Prakan.

Buddha Mountain Hike

A scenic hike leading to the impressive Buddha statue, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a rewarding experience for hikers.

Airports

How to reach Samut Prakan by plane.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Located approximately 30 km from Samut Prakan, this is the main international airport serving Bangkok with numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Samut Prakan has a mix of walkable areas, especially in town centers and markets. However, outside these zones, pedestrian infrastructure may be lacking, making it necessary to use public transportation or taxis for longer distances. Sidewalks are available but can be inconsistent in quality.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai People

The majority of the population is Thai, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community values.

Expatriates

A growing number of expatriates live in Samut Prakan, attracted by the area's affordability and proximity to Bangkok.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and popular sport in Thailand, with several training camps available for enthusiasts.

Football

Football (soccer) is very popular among locals, with many community fields and leagues available for participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Samut Prakan can be heavy, particularly during rush hours, as it is a commuter hub for those traveling to Bangkok. Public transportation options include buses and the BTS Skytrain, providing convenient access to the city. Ride-sharing services are also widely used and can be a good alternative to navigating local traffic.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Samut Prakan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; just ask for 'jay' to ensure no meat or seafood is included.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Thai food is mostly gluten-free, it's advisable to check with vendors about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Samut Prakan is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics offering a range of services. Public and private hospitals provide emergency care, and pharmacies are widely available. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide