Bus Tour of Bangkok – Circular Route through Historic Bangkok

The Bus Tour of Bangkok aboard Bus 53 follows a circular route through the city’s historic centre. It connects major landmarks and local neighbourhoods, offering travelers an easy, low-cost way to experience the capital’s daily rhythm.

The route and its origins

Bus number 53 follows a circular path through Bangkok’s historic centre. Beginning near Phra Arthit Pier, it follows the line of the old city walls built in 1782, then continues past canals and bridges that shaped the city’s early development. The route has long served local residents, connecting markets, temples, and civic institutions at the heart of the capital, and now provides visitors with an easy way to explore the same areas by public transport.

What you’ll see along the way

The journey offers a cross-section of Bangkok life. From Phra Sumen Fort the bus continues towards Government House and Bo Bae Market, one of the city’s busiest clothing districts. It also passes Hua Lamphong station, once the gateway to Thailand’s rail network, and travels through Chinatown, where gold shops, shrines, and street-food stalls line Yaowarat Road. Further along, the bus skirts the Flower Market, before passing Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and Wat Mahathat. Along the route, you’ll also see museums, bridges, and royal monuments that trace Bangkok’s development over more than two centuries.

Joining the tour and practical details

You can board the bus at any point along its circular route. For first-time visitors, starting from Phra Arthit Pier is convenient, as it’s a short walk from Khaosan Road and close to the river taxi network. The complete loop takes around ninety minutes, though timings vary with traffic. Buses run throughout the day, providing flexibility for travellers exploring the area. For route maps and current fare information, see the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority website.

A living part of the city

Unlike purpose-built sightseeing buses, this is a working public route that continues to serve Bangkok’s residents. It offers an authentic glimpse into daily life while linking many of the city’s best-known landmarks. The Bus Tour of Bangkok shows how the modern capital has grown around its historic core and remains closely tied to the roads and canals that first defined its layout.

Quick Facts – Bus Tour of Bangkok

Central Bangkok
About 90 minutes for the full loop
Operates daily throughout the year
Flexible self-guided outing
Old City landmarks, canals, Chinatown, Flower Market, Grand Palace

Bus 53 near Phra Sumen Fort on the Bus Tour of Bangkok

Street scene in Chinatown seen from Bus 53 during the Bus Tour of Bangkok

Bus 53 stop near Sanam Luang during the Bus Tour of Bangkok

Downloadable Bus Commentary

A free video commentary can be downloaded to your phone and played during the bus tour.

Bus Tour Commentary

When the video loads tap the ⋮ (three dots) at the bottom-right of the player to download

Bus Route 53

Khaosan Road to Nearest Stop

Expand the map using the box in the top right corner. Pins mark temples, museums, and other features. Click a pin for details, or use the menu in the top left for a full list.