The Chao Phraya River, often called the “River of Kings,” is Bangkok’s lifeline and one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Stretching 372 kilometers through Thailand, this majestic waterway offers visitors a unique perspective of Bangkok’s historical sites, modern landmarks, and local life along its banks.

Location:
The Millennium Hilton Bangkok is perfectly situated right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, making it an ideal starting point for your river adventures.
River Experience Options:
- Tourist Boat Services:
Chao Phraya Tourist Boat:
- Operating hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Cost: Single trip tickets from 60 THB, Day passes from 200 THB
- Stops at major tourist attractions
Chao Phraya Express Boat:
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Different flag colors indicate different routes:
- Orange Flag (Local line): 15 THB per trip
- Blue Flag (Tourist line): 40 THB per trip
- Green Flag (Local line): 20 THB per trip
- More frequent stops, used by locals
- Private River Tours:
Luxury Dinner Cruises:
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Price range: 1,200-3,000 THB per person
- Popular operators:
- Shangri-La Horizon Cruise
- Banyan Tree’s Apsara
- Mandarin Oriental’s River Jazz Cruise
Long-tail Boat Tours:
- Private charter available
- Customizable routes
- Price: Around 1,000-1,500 THB per hour
- Can explore smaller canals (klongs)
Getting to the River from Millennium Hilton Bangkok:
The hotel has its own private pier, making river access extremely convenient:
- Simply take the elevator to the ground floor
- Follow signs to the pier
- Hotel staff can assist with boat bookings
Major Attractions Along the River:
- Historical Sites:
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
- Wat Pho (Temple of Reclining Buddha)
- Asiatique The Riverfront
- Modern Landmarks:
- ICONSIAM
- River City Bangkok
- Lhong 1919
- Warehouse 30
Best Times to Experience the River:
Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM):
- Less crowded
- Cooler temperatures
- Great for photography
- Watch locals giving alms to monks
Sunset (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM):
- Spectacular views
- Perfect for photography
- Ideal for dinner cruises
- Beautiful temple illuminations
Photography Tips:
- Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light
- Sunset behind Wat Arun is particularly photogenic
- Bring a wide-angle lens for cityscapes
- Consider a polarizing filter to reduce water glare
Safety and Practical Tips:
- Wear sunscreen and a hat during daytime trips
- Bring water and stay hydrated
- Keep valuables secure
- Check weather forecasts before booking
- Have small change ready for boat fares
- Download boat schedule apps
Cultural Etiquette:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples
- Remove shoes when entering temple buildings
- Be respectful when taking photos of locals
- Ask permission before photographing monks
Seasonal Considerations:
- Best season: November to February (cool and dry)
- Rainy season (July-October): Be prepared for sudden showers
- Peak tourist season: December-January
- Festival times: Loy Krathong (November) offers special river experiences
Additional Services:
- Hotel concierge can arrange private tours
- River taxi booking service available
- Guide services in multiple languages
- Special photography tours available
Contact Information:
- Tourist Police: 1155
- Marine Department: +66 2 233 1311
- Tourism Authority of Thailand: 1672
The Chao Phraya River offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern excitement. From your base at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok, you have easy access to explore this magnificent waterway and experience Bangkok from a unique perspective. Whether you choose a quick ferry ride or a luxurious dinner cruise, the river provides unforgettable memories of your visit to Bangkok.