Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

If you want to witness the cream of the crop in Thai contemporary art, there’s only one place you really need to go: Bangkok’s Museum of Contemporary is a must-see for any art-lover, artist, or culture vulture. Foreigners and locals alike can spend hours browsing the impressive collection of Thai art collector Boonchai Bencharongkul. Featuring upwards of 800 pieces, the museum is immense compared to other smaller commercial galleries. The building itself is quite new, having been recently constructed in 2012. Modern art by Thai artists is displayed throughout; guests will see traditional pieces from Chalermchai Kositpipat—the artist behind Chiang Rai’s famous White Temple—to more conceptual works by National Artist awardees.
MOCA’s fifth and final floor is dedicated to influential European and international artists from the late 19th century. This provides additional context to modern and contemporary Thai art, highlighting the differences and similarities between Western and Eastern styles. And with a charming gift shop that sells treats, postcards, and other artsy knick knacks, you can surely find some nice souvenirs to bring home. Closed Mondays, visit this beautiful space between 10 and 6pm Tuesday through Sunday for just 180 THB.