Knockout first date ideas in Bangkok for LGBTQ+ lovebirds

Knockout first date ideas in Bangkok for LGBTQ+ lovebirds

It happened at last! After months of tireless campaigning, Thailand’s marriage equality bill was finally passed into law on Tuesday, September 24, making us the third country in Asia to legalise same-sex unions – cue the confetti and happy tears. For some lucky fellows, the countdown to their big day has already begun. In fact, the country’s first official queer weddings are expected to take place as early as January next year. For the rest of us… well, let’s just say Cupid is still sharpening his aim – and hey, no rush! But if you are actively scouting for that special someone and happen to be in or around the Thai capital anytime soon, you’re in for a treat. The city has plenty of fabulous first date spots that go far beyond the standard dinner and drinks. Here are some of our favourite swoon-worthy date ideas in Bangkok that are guaranteed to turn up the charm:

Unleash your inner Picasso with a painting class

Enjoy a painting class for couples in Bangkok.
Creativity sparks connection: painting classes are one of the most underrated date ideas in Bangkok. Photography courtesy of SOUL SALT Paint Bar.

Haven’t you heard? ‘Netflix & Chill’ is out, and ‘Paint & Sip’ is so in! Getting creative together with something like a painting class can be an easy and wholesome way to break down those early date jitters. And the best thing is you don’t actually need to have an artistic bone in your body – half the fun is laughing at each other’s creations.

For an artsy date with a riverside view, try SOUL SALT Paint Bar in the Watthana district. Their Couples’ Masterpiece Experience lets you and your partner collaborate on a painting in a fun, relaxed environment, complete with drinks and gorgeous views. Alternatively, if you’re up for something a little cosier, head to Taiban Café near Hua Lamphong MRT Station, where you can paint in a serene garden setting while sipping coffee.

Hit the rink for a fun ice skating session

Put on some skates and take to the ice with your special someone.
Testing the waters? Try testing the ice instead – first dates are cooler at the rink.

Wait, ice skating… in Bangkok? Are we talking about the same city known for its tropical heat? Yep, you heard that right! Bangkok has a few cool surprises up its sleeve, and ice skating is one of them. If you’re looking for a playful way to break the ice – pun absolutely intended – nothing beats it. It’s perfect for a first date because even if you’re both terrible at it, you’ll be laughing, holding hands for balance, and bonding over each fall. And once you’ve taken a few tumbles together, any shyness will be long gone.

For a high-energy, nightclub-meets-ice rink vibe, head to Sub-Zero Ice Skate Club at Sukhumvit, where you’ll glide along real ice (not that waxy stuff) with disco lights and DJ sets. Plus, if you feel like belting out your favourite song, there’s karaoke too. For a more chill experience, The Rink at CentralWorld is slower-paced and ideal for beginners, perfect for holding hands as you get your bearings. 

Visit the Island of Ko Kret

Visiting Ko Kret and trying your hand at pottery making is one of the most romantic date ideas in Bangkok.
Skip the city buzz and find connection on Ko Kret – Bangkok’s peaceful little island escape.

If you’re both the adventurous type, take your first date out of the city and head to Ko Kret, a small island known for its pottery and traditional Mon culture. We highly recommend renting bikes to explore the island which will keep you both stimulated whilst still providing ample opportunity for a nice chat. You’ll get to know each other in a relaxed, scenic setting – far better than sitting across a table in a restaurant.

Consider getting your hands dirty with a pottery class, where you can channel your inner Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. Then wrap up the day with a delicious meal at Rongsi Studio, a cosy restaurant on the river housed in a converted rice mill. While you’re there, don’t miss Wat Paramaiyikawat, an ancient temple known for its leaning stupa, which will a touch of Thai history to your romantic day out.

Master Thai flavours with a cooking class for two

A cooking class is one of the best first date ideas in Bangkok.
“I cooked with Poo and I liked it,” says everyone who takes one of these fabulous classes. Photography courtesy of Cooking with Poo and Friends – Thai cooking school.

Couples who cook together stay together, right? Spice up your date with a hands-on Thai cooking class, where you’ll laugh, learn, and taste-test your way through Bangkok’s incredible flavours. Cooking classes are a fun way to see how well you work together – and if you can stand the heat.

Try Cooking with Poo. Don’t panic – it’s not what you think! ‘Poo’ just happens to be the chef’s nickname. This world-renowned cooking school in Bangkok focuses on authentic Thai cuisine, offering participants a hands-on experience in making classic dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. Another great option is Sompong Thai Cooking School, located in the gay-popular Silom neighbourhood. Whichever you choose, you’ll walk away armed with some incredible new recipes – and maybe even one to impress your date on round two.

Cuddle up with furry friends at a cat café 

Visit a Cat Café: one of the cutest date ideas in Bangkok.
Meow’s the time to relax and connect: first dates are better with cats and coffee. Photography courtesy of Caturday Cat Café.

If your idea of a purrrfect date involves a good latte and a dozen cuddly furballs weaving between your legs, Bangkok’s cat cafés will be right up your alley. Truth is, whether you’re an animal lover or not, visiting a cat café is a fantastic, low-pressure first date idea that promises zero awkward silences and plenty of pure, uninterrupted “aww” moments. 

Make your way to Caturday Cat Café, an Instagram-worthy spot that is very popular among Bangkok’s feline fanatics. If you’re looking for a place that combines cuteness with a cause, Asok Pethouse Cat Café features rescue cats, and – if the date goes extremely well – there’s even the option to adopt one. 

Explore the cosmos with a planetarium stargazing date 

Stargaze in Bangkok.
Stargazing without the mosquito bites: planetarium dates are out of this world.

There’s nothing quite as romantic as stargazing with someone you’re crazy about, and in Bangkok, you can do just that in the comfort of a spectacular planetarium. Since 1964, the Bangkok Planetarium (National Science Centre for Education) has been a favourite for couples looking to add a bit of celestial magic to their date. Lay back, watch the stars, and enjoy the stunning displays of the cosmos.

While you’re there, explore the other exhibits at the National Science Centre for Education, which cover everything from oceanography to dinosaurs – perfect for those looking to add a little intellectual stimulation to their first date.

First dates don’t have to be nerve-wracking or boring. With these knockout date ideas in Bangkok, you’ll be able to turn a first encounter into a memorable experience that’s fun, unique, and totally outside the box. 

Treat yourself to unparalleled hospitality, luxury, and relaxation whilst you explore these queer-friendly first date ideas in Bangkok by opting to stay at one of these incredible LGBTQ+ welcoming hotels and resorts.