Things To Do
in Samut Prakan
Samut Prakan is a riverine province just southeast of Bangkok, where city life meets coastal and rural flavors. It blends bustling markets and modern Thai culture with lush mangroves, temples, and family-friendly attractions. The area is known for its accessible day trips to iconic sites like The Ancient City and Bang Pu Nature Reserve, as well as its thriving seafood scene along the Chao Phraya and gulf coast.
Expect a warm, tropical climate, relaxed pace, and plenty of chances to sample authentic Thai cuisine without venturing far from Bangkok.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey at the Erawan Museum, renowned for its stunning three-headed elephant statue and intricate architecture. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens and delve into the rich history depicted through its exhibits. This tranquil setting is perfect for those looking to appreciate the artistic and cultural heritage of Thailand.
Head to the Ancient City (Muang Boran), an open-air museum showcasing replicas of Thailand’s most famous monuments. Rent a bicycle to explore the sprawling grounds, which feature over 100 scaled-down versions of historical sites. Enjoy a delicious traditional Thai lunch at one of the in-park restaurants, experiencing authentic flavors in a picturesque environment.
Wrap up your day with a visit to Bang Pu Recreation Center, where you can witness the spectacular sight of migrating seagulls during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and fresh sea breeze. Treat yourself to fresh seafood at a local restaurant while enjoying views of the sea.
Start with an early visit to Wat Asokaram, a serene Buddhist temple known for its striking white chedi. Participate in a morning alms-giving ceremony to experience the local customs and spirituality. Afterward, explore the temple grounds, adorned with beautiful statues and lush greenery.
Venture to the nearby Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm & Zoo, home to thousands of crocodiles and other exotic creatures. Witness thrilling crocodile shows and learn about wildlife preservation efforts in Thailand. Have lunch at the zoo’s café, offering simple Thai dishes amidst the lively atmosphere.
In the evening, return to Wat Asokaram for meditation sessions if available, or simply relax and reflect on the day. Enjoy dinner at a nearby spot known for its authentic Thai cuisine, indulging in local favorites. Wind down with a peaceful stroll along the temple grounds, illuminated by soft lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance within town) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-120 |
| 🛍️Local souvenirs | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible day trips from Bangkok to cultural sites and coastal nature
- Excellent seafood and riverfront dining
- Abundant markets and street food with a local vibe
- Family-friendly attractions and relatively relaxed pace
- Can feel spread out; requires transport between sites
- Some markets are crowded and hot; plan early visits
- Nightlife is limited compared with central Bangkok
- "Sawasdee kha/krub" - Hello
- "Khob khun kha/krub" - Thank you
- "Thaorai nii?" - How much is this?
- "Hong nam yoo tee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Aroi mak!" - Very delicious!
- "Chuay duay" - Please (assist me)
Places to Visit in Samut Prakan
Visit one of these nice places.
A sprawling open-air museum with scaled replicas of Thai temples and building facades; early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography.
A dramatic, ornate space centered on a colossal three-headed elephant statue; good for interior and architectural shots as well as surrounding gardens.
Coastal boardwalks and mangrove scenery at sunset; a prime spot for bird photography and wide-water views.
Canal-side communities, wooden houses, and passing boats provide compelling portraits of local life and reflections on the water.
Food in Samut Prakan
Samut Prakan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot and sour shrimp soup packed with lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves, and chilies; widely available at seafood restaurants along the river and in local markets.
Must-Try!
Green papaya salad mixed with chilies, lime, peanuts, and dried shrimp; common at street stalls and casual eateries near markets and coastal areas.
Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, egg, bean sprouts, and peanuts; a staple at waterfront stalls and eateries across the province.
Whole fish salt-crusted and grilled, often served with sour sauces and sticky rice; a signature seafood experience at riverside grills.
Thai-style crepes with sweet and savory toppings, a popular street snack you’ll find at markets and food stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Coastal market area with fresh seafood stalls, grilled fish, and light snacks; best at sunset.
Markets along the canal offering fresh produce, Thai snacks, and riverfront eats—great for an informal lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite wai (hands pressed together with a slight bow) is the standard greeting; use a gender-appropriate ending (kha for females, krub for males).
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and show respect to monks; never touch sacred objects with your feet and avoid loud behavior.
Feet are considered the lowest part of the body; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred images, and do not touch others on the head.
Safety
Tipping in Samut Prakan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in nicer establishments and hotels; rounding up the bill or leaving small coins for service staff is common in casual spots.
Cash is widely used in markets and smaller eateries. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and shops; ATMs are common in towns and near markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak heat with temperatures often in the 30s°C (90s°F). Hydration and sun protection are essential; mornings are best for outdoor activities.
High humidity with frequent afternoon showers; brief but intense downpours can occur, so carry a poncho and plan flexible outdoor time.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor photography, with cooler evenings by the river.
Samut Prakan at Night
Hiking in Samut Prakan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle walking routes along the coast with birdwatching opportunities and tidal views; easy, family-friendly hikes.
Shaded canal paths through mangrove and forested areas; suitable for a relaxed nature walk and photo opportunities.
Scenic riverfront walks that connect neighborhoods and markets; best at sunrise or sunset for photography.
Airports
How to reach Samut Prakan by plane.
Major international airport—roughly a 20–40 minute drive from central Samut Prakan depending on traffic; many international and domestic flights operate here.
Secondary international airport serving budget and domestic routes; typically a longer ride from Samut Prakan but useful for certain flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly central Thai with a growing presence of Chinese-Thai communities and migrants who work in urban and coastal service sectors.
A mix of short- and long-term visitors, drawn to the riverine lifestyle and proximity to Bangkok.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; local gyms and events are accessible in urban corridors and nearby Bangkok.
A common recreational sport in community centers and hotels; often played in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samut Prakan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in markets and most restaurants. Look for dishes labeled jay ( Thai vegetarian, no meat, fish, or seafood) or ask for no fish sauce and no shrimp paste; many places can customize dishes.