Parks — Bangkok

Lumphini is a large green park with a beautiful lake in the centre. Monitor lizards roam the grounds, locals cycle or come for picnics. The park is busiest in the late afternoon, when people go running, do aerobics or use the free exercise equipment.

From Lumphini you can walk to the neighbouring Benjakitti Park via elevated pedestrian walkways with great views of the skyscrapers. There are plenty of trees, so it's cool even on the hottest summer days.

The nearby Park@Siam is a good place to rest from the noise and the crowds.

Benchasiri is a compact, cosy park located between the Bangkok Marriott hotel and the popular Emporium shopping mall.

A tiny public park with benches by the pier in Talat Noi, home to catfish and offering views of a Chinese temple on the opposite bank.