What to Do at Tha Phra Chan?
Tha Phra Chan is a riverside pier in Bangkok Old Town, just a short walk from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. It’s more than just a place to catch a ferry — the area has a great old Bangkok feel that I always enjoy. The name comes from an old bronze bell that once hung in a nearby temple, and it still feels like a piece of the city’s past.
Right next to the pier is a maze of covered lanes, packed with tiny shops selling amulets and religious charms. The atmosphere is lively and a bit chaotic, but it’s fascinating to walk through — people come from all over to browse or trade amulets here. It’s one of those places where you feel like not much has changed in decades.
There are also a few hidden local restaurants by the river, tucked away behind the rows of shops. I’ve stopped at one or two for a cold drink and a quick lunch, and it’s a great spot to take a break with views of the Chao Phraya and a breeze from the water.
Tha Phra Chan connects directly to Tha Maharaj, a more modern riverside complex with cafés, boutique shops, and restaurants. It’s a good mix of old and new Bangkok, and a great place to wander, rest, or hop across the river to the Thonburi side.
The area surrounding Tha Phra Chan is a bustling area with plenty of local vendors selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. The pier is also a popular spot for locals to fish and unwind by the water, especially during Bangkok’s cooler months.
Tha Phra Chan Info
Location: Bangkok Old Town
Address: 83 Trok Sake, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Tha Phra Chan Map
More About Bangkok Old Town
