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Close-up view of cooked prawns served on a buffet station.

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Landmarks on the Chao Phraya River Route

A river cruise offers direct views of Bangkok's historical and cultural sights. These landmarks are heavily illuminated along the riverbanks at night.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Taking a dinner cruise or daytime sightseeing boat allows you to see several major historical structures from the water. The nighttime route specifically showcases illuminated temples, palaces, and bridges.

Public express boats and large dinner vessels stay on the main river. They do not enter the smaller canals. For evening dinner cruises, vessels typically head north past the Grand Palace before turning around at the Rama VIII Bridge.

Close-up view of fresh green mussels prepared for a buffet meal.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Have camera readyViewed from boat

This Buddhist temple features towering, intricately decorated spires. At night, these spires glow golden against the dark sky. Have your camera ready as soon as the boat passes. It is the most photographed landmark on the entire river.

Tour photo
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

Former royal residenceViewed from boat

The historic former residence of the Thai monarch sits directly along the river route. High white walls and bright roofs surround the complex. Secure a spot on the open-air upper deck of your cruise vessel for the best unobstructed views.

Tour photo
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Rama VIII Bridge

Northern turnaround pointViewed from boat

This asymmetric cable-stayed bridge spans the Chao Phraya River. The structure is brightly lit up after dark. Most dinner cruises use this modern bridge as the northern turnaround point before heading back south down the river.

See the Landmarks at Night

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Chao Phraya Princess Cruise with Buffet Dinner and Live Music1 h 30 min to 2 h 5.0 (1)from $38
princess dinner cruisefrom $38 on Viator
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