Chantaburi is a province in Eastern Thailand blessed with beautiful scenery, from pristine beaches to stunning mountains. Its towns are also steeped in history, with old buildings from the 19th century still standing to this day.
One of the best places to learn about the history of this province is Chantaburi's old town, or "Chantabun", an ancient waterfront community and former residential area that was mostly inhabited by Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants. This incredibly unique blend of cultures creates one of the most charming Thai towns you will ever experience.
Within this travel guide, you will find all the information you need to plan a fantastic trip to Chantaburi's Old Town. Without further ado, here are the ten best things to do in Chantaburi's Old Town for solo travelers:
- Chantaburi's Old Town Things to do Itinerary Map
- Where to Stay in Chantaburi's Old Town?
-
10 Best Things to Do in Chantaburi's Old Town
- Spend a Night in a Heritage Inn
- Admire the Beauty of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
- Visit Wat Khet Na Bunyaram
- Walk Around Chantaburi's Waterfront Promenade
- Check Out the Free Chanthaburi River Community Cultural Center
- Try the Guay Jub Nam Kon at Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant
- Check Out the Largest Gem Market in Thailand
- Stroll Around Wat Phai Lom
- Find a Nice Cafe and Relax by the River
- Keep an Eye Out For Old Beautiful Buildings around Namphu Market
- What to Eat and Drink in Chantaburi's Old Town
- Thailand Travel Video
- Further Reading for Eastern Thailand
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Chantaburi's Old Town Things to do Itinerary Map
Quick Summary
| ♥️ Must Visit: | Admire the Beauty of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception |
|---|---|
| 🥘 Place to Eat: | Try the Guay Jub Nam Kon at Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant |
| 🛌 Place to Stay: | Baan Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn |
10 Best Things to Do in Chantaburi's Old Town
1. Spend a Night in a Heritage Inn
- 📍 Location: Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn [Map Link]
- 💰 Entry Fees: 45 USD/night
One of the highlights of visiting Chantaburi's Old Town is to spend a night in a heritage inn and see firsthand what life was like living in this historic town back in the day. One of the best places to stay is Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn, located right by the bank of Chantaburi River.
Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn is a 150-year-old establishment situated at the heart of the Chantabun community, commemorating the legend of Luang Rajamaitri, the benefactor of the region.
The inn houses a small museum on the first floor, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage artifacts from that era. Items such as an old typewriter, official documents, and vintage photographs provide us with a glimpse into the way of life of the people here during that period.
- Chernchan Hostel (Budget)
- Baan Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn (Mid-Range) 👍 Top Pick
- Punyashthiti villa (High-End)
The entire building retains its original teakwood structure while also incorporating a modern cement structure. It is equipped with modern facilities to accommodate those who wish to stay overnight, preserving its historical authenticity while also adding contemporary convenience.
The room is great with old wooden furniture, a tall ceiling, and they serve a great selection of breakfast, some of which is sourced from the community itself, like Guay Jub Nam Kon, which I highly recommend.
Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn is also not overly expensive, at around 45 USD per night for 2 people. Be sure to book it in advance as it's a small inn and it can get booked out quite fast. Since you are in an old town, there's no designated parking space, but you can park your car for free at Wat Bot Muang nearby.
If you are looking for a more high-end heritage inn to stay, you can also check out Punyashthiti Villa, another restored historical inn with three floors' worth of free museum, a riverside cafe, and several high-end rooms available for you to choose from. It's more expensive, but it's a bit larger than Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn, which might be more suitable if you are in a big group.
All in all, you will thoroughly enjoy your time staying in these historic inns during your visit. Staying overnight allows you to take it slow and truly immerse yourself in the laid-back vibe of this historic waterfront community.
Where to Stay in Chantaburi's Old Town?
2. Admire the Beauty of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
- 📍 Location: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 9 AM - 3 PM
- 💰 Entry Fees: Free
Not gonna lie, I did not expect to see a Catholic cathedral here in Chantaburi, and it is one of the most beautiful and renowned landmarks in the province, which surprises me even more. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a remnant of the French presence here back in the early 20th Century.
During that time, the French briefly occupied Chantaburi to exert pressure on Thailand (Siam at the time) to relinquish control of Lan Xang (Laos) and a few provinces in Cambodia as part of France's establishment of its Indochina colony.
Due to an influx of Vietnamese Catholic migrants from Vietnam, even before the French occupation of Chantaburi, the Catholic population steadily grew. They initially constructed a church on the opposite side of the lake. However, with significant growth, they relocated the church to its current spot and reconstructed the present-day church, featuring Western architecture in the Gothic style.
If you think the exterior is beautiful, wait until you see the interior of the church. I went there one morning and the church was open to visitors. Even though I kind of expected the interior to be rundown and plain, much like most old Catholic churches I see across Southeast Asia, I was surprised to see just how immaculately decorated and well-kept the place is.
If it is open when you are there, be sure to get inside and check out its beautiful interior. The church is open from 9 AM to 3 PM every day, except on Sundays when it opens from 12 PM to 4 PM. Entrance to the church is free of charge.
3. Visit Wat Khet Na Bunyaram
- 📍 Location: Wat Khet Na Bunyaram [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 24/7
- 💰 Entry Fees: Free
Wat Khet Na Bunyaram is a large Vietnamese-Chinese temple located right by Chantaburi's Old Town, and it is another attraction that shows just how diverse and unique the Chantabun community is.
The temple features a stunning roof design that blends the Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles with its bright colors, sculptures of mythical animals like garudas and dragons, and rounded roof tiles typical of Chinese temples.
The temple gate itself is also immaculately designed with colorful decorations, sculptures, and a sign in three languages: Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese. I've never seen a temple quite like it, so be sure to explore it thoroughly. The temple is open 24/7, and there is no entrance fee.
4. Walk Around Chantaburi's Waterfront Promenade
- 📍 Location: Chantaburi Waterfront Promenade [Map Link]
One of my favorite morning activities here is walking around the Chantaburi Waterfront Promenade, which forms a loop starting from the old town. The route crosses the river via Wat Chantanaram Bridge, follows the east bank, and returns to the old town via Niramol Bridge, allowing you to see much of Chantaburi's Old Town in one go.
After you cross Wat Chantanaram Bridge, you will have a pretty amazing view of the waterfront community with all its teakwood houses on stilts and the pagoda of Wat Bot Muang, shimmering in gold against the backdrop of the blue sky. That is the money shot right here.
As you walk along the river, you will see the old town from a different perspective that you wouldn't experience if you walked on the opposite side, as it allows you to witness the lives of the local people. They rely on the flow of Chantaburi River, much like their ancestors did many decades ago.
The whole walk should take about 20 minutes, and you will be passing some of the most beautiful old buildings in the Old Town, so be sure to keep an eye out for that. Since it can get pretty hot here, I highly recommend you do the loop in the early morning or late evening.
The sunset from across the river is also pretty awesome. There are also many restaurants where you can have dinner on the other side of the river, such as Chong The Eh, known for their seafood dish and other local cuisine you can try. If you have the time, make sure to explore both sides of the Chantaburi River while you are here.
5. Check Out the Free Chanthaburi River Community Cultural Center
- 📍 Location: Chanthaburi River Community Cultural Center [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 10:30 AM - 4 PM
- 💰 Entry Fees: Free
The Chanthaburi River Community Cultural Center is a free museum where you can explore and learn more about the history of Chantaburi's Old Town and the way of life during that era. The center aims to preserve the old way of life of the local people as well as educate us on what makes this community so unique.
The center consists of two floors with several sections housing old items donated by the local people, old photographs providing a glimpse of life back then, and storyboards for you to learn more about the unique culture and its diverse population.
It is a nice place to walk around and a great way to kill some time as you explore Chantaburi's Old Town. The museum is open from 10:30 AM to 4 PM every day, and the entrance fee is free of charge. If you love history and want to learn more about Chantaburi's Old Town, be sure to drop by Chanthaburi River Community Cultural Center.
6. Try the Guay Jub Nam Kon at Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant [Map Link]
If you are in Chantaburi's Old Town, you have to try the delicious Guay Jub Nam Kon or rolled noodles in five spice broth for breakfast at Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant, an old local restaurant that has been serving their unique bowl of broths for decades.
The savory, thick soup from their Guay Jub bowls is unlike anything I've tasted before. While I'm not usually a Guay Jub guy, I absolutely love this one. The broth is so flavorful that it's hard to put my spoon down after the first taste.
The dish is also sprinkled with several toppings, ranging from crispy grilled pork belly to fried tofu and the delicious Five-Spice Egg. The rice noodle is soft and smooth; it's hard not to recommend this dish. If you are staying at Luang Rajamaitri Historic Inn, you can choose Guay Jub for breakfast as it is included in the hotel price. Another reason to stay in that great heritage inn.
7. Check Out the Largest Gem Market in Thailand
- 📍 Location: Chanthaburi Gems Market [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: Fri-Sun, 10 AM-3 PM
Not too far from Chantaburi's Old Town, you will also find the Chanthaburi Gems Market, which is one of the most famous gem markets in Thailand, so much so that it has given Chantaburi the nickname "City of Gems."
Along "Gem Road" or Si Chan Road, you will find more than 120 shops specializing in gold, gems, and precious stones clustered together on a single street. You can experience the gem-dealing atmosphere that involves middlemen purchasing gemstones from mines and subsequently reselling them to retailers or customers.
The Gems Market operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Price surveys typically occur on Fridays, with the actual trading taking place on Saturdays, so be sure to plan your trip carefully if you want to witness the gem-trading atmosphere.
8. Stroll Around Wat Phai Lom (Royal Monastery)
- 📍 Location: Wat Phai Lom (Royal Monastery) [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM
- 💰 Entry Fees: Free
Not too far from the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, you will find Wat Phai Lom (Royal Monastery), a quiet old temple that was established way back in the late Ayutthaya era and has served as a Buddhist school for monks for more than 100 years.
At this temple, you will find several buildings with the main ordination hall featuring beautiful architectural styles that range from the old Ratanakosin to Chinese to western styles. You will also find a large reclining Buddha in one of them.
Here, you can observe the distinct architectural style of a Thai temple compared to others. It's a great place to explore, especially after you have visited the Catholic church and the Vietnamese temple. The temple is open from 8 AM to 5 PM every day, and there is no entrance fee.
9. Find a Nice Cafe and Relax by the River
- 📍 Location: Yindee Cafe [Map Link]
The key to enjoying your time in Chantaburi's Old Town is to take it slow and find a nice, quiet place by the river to relax and watch the day go by. There are plenty of riverside cafes and restaurants to do just that.
If you are looking for a nice and spacious open-air restaurant where you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or a delicious dessert, I highly recommend Yindee Cafe. They offer a wide selection of dishes for both lunch and dinner, as well as desserts and coffees. It's the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the river view.
For refreshing drinks, cakes, and pastries, you can't go wrong with Sweet At Moon Cafe, a sweet shop with a nice river deck where you can enjoy the wide variety of homemade pastries that they make fresh every day.
There are countless cafes and restaurants along the river, so you should have no trouble finding the one you like. If you are looking to kill some time here, be sure to check out some of these cafes!
10. Keep an Eye Out For Old Beautiful Buildings around Namphu Market
- 📍 Location: Namphu Market [Map Link]
Last but not least, Chantaburi's Old Town is not confined to the river only; it extends all the way to Namphu Market. To truly appreciate the beauty of Chantaburi's Old Town, I highly recommend exploring both the riverside and the non-river side of town.
Keep an eye out for the old, beautiful buildings around Namphu Market that seem stuck in the 80s and 90s. Many of them are abandoned, but you can still catch a glimpse of how bustling the city was back in the day.
From old abandoned cinemas to decades-old storefronts with beautiful Chinese-style signs and decor, there are numerous hidden gems waiting for you to explore here. Be sure to spend some time thoroughly exploring the streets of Chanthaburi's Old Town.
What to Eat and Drink in Chantaburi's Old Town
1. Try the Guay Jub Nam Kon at Pa Mai Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 8 AM - 3 PM
- 💰 Price Range: 40 THB (~1 USD)
If you are in Chantaburi's Old Town, you have to try the delicious Guay Jub Nam Kon or rolled noodles in five-spice broth for breakfast at Pa Mai Guay Jub Restaurant, an old local restaurant that has been serving their unique bowl of broths for decades.
The savory, thick soup from their Guay Jub bowls is unlike anything I've tasted before. While I'm not usually a Guay Jub guy, I absolutely love this one. The broth is so flavorful that it's hard to put my spoon down after the first taste.
The dish is also sprinkled with several toppings, ranging from crispy grilled pork belly to fried tofu and the delicious Five-Spice Egg. All of this for only 40 THB, which makes it even harder not to recommend. The restaurant is open from 8 AM to 3 PM every day, and you can have Guay Jub for both breakfast or lunch, so be sure to check them out.
2. Enjoy pastries By the River at Sweet At Moon Cafe
- 📍 Location: Sweet At Moon Cafe [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM
- 💰 Price Range: Not overly expensive
For refreshing drinks, cakes, and pastries, you can't go wrong with Sweet At Moon Cafe, a sweet shop with a nice river deck where you can enjoy the wide variety of homemade pastries that they make fresh every day.
Their cakes are delicious and not overly expensive. You know they make them fresh as you will often see the staff making them as you walk inside the cafe. The cafe is open from 9 AM to 6 PM every day. If you have a sweet tooth and are looking for a nice cafe to enjoy, be sure to check out Sweet At Moon Cafe.
3. Enjoy Lunch and Dessert at Yindee Cafe
- 📍 Location: Yindee Cafe [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 8 AM - 10 PM
If you are looking for a nice and spacious open-air restaurant where you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or a delicious dessert, I highly recommend Yindee Cafe. They offer a wide selection of dishes for both lunch and dinner, as well as desserts and coffees. It's a perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the river view.
I tried their Tom Yum Seafood dish, and it was delicious. I highly recommend you try it, as well as their Thai desserts, like a fruit bowl with yogurt, signature fruit salad, and more! The restaurant is open from 8 AM to 10 PM every day, except on Wednesdays.
4. Try the Real Local Dish Cuisine at Chantorn Pochana Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Chantorn Pochana Restaurant [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM
If you are craving proper Chantaburi's authentic cuisine, Chantorn Pochana Restaurant is the place where locals would go. It is a roadside restaurant with a wide selection of Chantaburi's famous dishes, such as traditional fried noodles with crispy crab, stir-fried fish with "Krawan" (Cardamom stem), and more.
If you want to try the real cuisine of Chantaburi, you can't go wrong with Chantorn Pochana Restaurant. The restaurant is open from 10 AM to 8 PM every day. They also have a souvenir shop where you can buy some dried food and snacks to take back home, so be sure to check it out.
5. Try the Durian Ice Cream at Rocket Ice Cream Shop
- 📍 Location: Rocket Ice Cream Shop [Map Link]
- 🕐 Opening Hours: 7 AM - 8 PM
- 💰 Price Range: 12 THB (~0.4 USD)
Rocket Ice Cream Shop is an old ice cream shop that has been operating on this street for over 50 years. They offer a variety of Boran ice cream or Thai traditional ice cream on sticks with a wide range of flavors to choose from.
My favorite flavor is Durian, and you're going to love it. It is sweet and delicious, and that is coming from someone who does not personally enjoy Durians as much as most Thais do. The ice cream costs only 12 THB, which makes for a great little dessert you can have after all the seafood meal you had elsewhere.
The ice cream shop is open from 7 AM to 8 PM every day, and you can order whichever flavor you want straight from the window right on the street. Make sure to check them out while you are in Chantaburi's Old Town.
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