Public View Point
Positioned on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok's historic Rattanakosin district, this free public viewpoint offers one of the city's most celebrated vantage points directly facing Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. While the temple's name references the morning light, it is at sunset and into the evening that this spot truly comes into its own — as the spires catch the fading light and then illuminate against the darkening sky, drawing crowds of locals and travellers alike.
Visitors can expect an open, unfenced riverside setting with an unhurried atmosphere despite its popularity. The view takes in Wat Arun across the water alongside the broader Chao Phraya River, with long-tail boats and ferries passing in the foreground. Some visitors report ambient music adding to the atmosphere during evening hours. The area is free to enter and requires no booking, making it an accessible pause point when exploring the surrounding temples and the Grand Palace complex nearby.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Public View Point, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Come here During dusk to witness the sunset and it is one of the most beautiful spots you can get here. The view of Wat Arun, boat and Chao Prays river is just astonishing. The problem here is this place is too crowded with people since this is the tourist attractions area. If you want to have an easy time here, it is advisable for you to come a little bit early and go to the cafe nearby that has the same view so you don't need to worry about rushing and have to wait for a picture but you need to spend some bucks
Decent place for viewing the Wat Arun. We actually wanted to see the temple at night. We went there arount 5PM until 6PM. The place is free so expect it to be hot. Recommended if you dont want to spend any money just to watch the temple 👍🏻
A great place to watch the sunset on the river over looking Wat Arun
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 551 reviews on Google.
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Public View Point: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Public View Point worth visiting?
Public View Point holds a 4.7★ rating from 551 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Bangkok.
When is the best time to visit Public View Point?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Public View Point located?
Public View Point is at 44 Thanon Maha Rat, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
44 Thanon Maha Rat, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Public View Point
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
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White Lotus Thai Cooking Class in Bangkok
A market walk, then a small-group kitchen where you actually learn to cook the dishes, not just eat them.

The Other Side of Bangkok
Guided cycling tours revealing Bangkok's hidden neighbourhoods, culture, and history on two wheels.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.

Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Rent the golf cart. Walk it and you'll see a fraction of the place and still lose seven hours.

Promthep Cape
Phuket's southern tip, best at sunset, though sunrise is when you get the cliffs almost to yourself.
Where to stay near Public View Point
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter