bangkok trip guide

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Bangkok Travel Guide

Bangkok is a city that thrives on contrasts and embraces the weird, the wonderful, and the whacky. Its happy essence and vibrant nature is owed to the everyday hustle and daily grind of the people. A place like no other, enriched with culture and many delights that go way beyond a plate of Pad Thai. This city is a must see and an experience to remember any time you visit. From the casual tuk-tuk, market stalls, trendy skyscrapers and delicious food, the city harnesses a plethora of appeal.

With many popular neighborhoods to explore and plenty of traditional, world class foods to try. Whatever you're here for, this is a destination that delivers romance, adventure, and family time.

In an unreservedly soulful city, you can expect nothing less.

It is without a doubt an oriental heavyweight, beloved for its pulsating Soi's, nightlife, food, and spa's. And, contrary to common belief, this 'big smoke' has plenty of greenery at its fingertips for those wanting a break from the noise. And just for good measure, the views in Bangkok are not to be missed, offering unrivalled seclusion from the concrete jungle. Climb the Sky Bars at night and be rewarded with a sparkling metropolis twinkling in its glory.

Sashaying with the sweet, the sour, and everything in between, there is no denying that the Land of Smiles will capture your senses and your heart.

Indochina Time (ICT)

Best Time to Go

Thai Buddhist New Year (otherwise known as 'Songkran') is a celebration the locals (of all ages) eagerly await all year round. On April 13, this metropolitan city shuts down for a three-day holiday. The locals then proceed to the streets, to have what can only be described as the biggest water festival in the world!

If the thought of this screams adventure to you, then don't forget to pack your brightest floral shirt and your best water gun! Check out Bangkok's Silom, a neighborhood where the atmosphere is pumping, the roads are closed off and the water barrels are lining the streets.

The easiest way to get there is by hopping on the BTS Skytrain (Silom or dark green line) and following the herds of brightly patterned shirts. Upon exiting the station, you will be greeted with some friendly, splashin' fun. If having water thrown on you randomly in the street isn't really your thing, then avoiding most parts of this country, at this time of year, is probably a good idea!

FYI: This time of year is HOT, HOT, HOT. In fact, April is known for being the hottest month of the year, so if you are averse to strong heat and humidity do check out the cooler months of the year.

Throughout the months of January and February, Bangkok proudly presents the very chilled Concert in the Park. Starting at 5:30 p.m. every Sunday, the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra plays a two-hour set, consisting of stunning compositions from both Thai and Western music. You can expect to hear plenty of popular classics from the big movies, musicals, and pop band heroes. Do as the locals do by taking a blanket or folding chairs, plus your favourite picnic essentials. You'll be ready to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.

November to February are generally the cooler months in most parts of Thailand, including Bangkok. However, if you're planning a trip to the islands from the capital do check the weather carefully. Whilst some areas of northern Thailand are determined by the three distinct climates, there are southern regions governed by just two. These areas are known for getting more rainfall.

Things to Know

Bangkok is a huge bustling city with a population of over 10 million and its bold colours and cool vibrations span over 50 districts making it impossible to absorb it all in a single trip. With so much to see and do, this is a city that loves an itinerary. It's also a city that loves wandering feet — being ready to trail off the beaten path and throw away the schedule could pay off in dividends.

Bangkok Soi's (streets/alleys) are well known for their hidden gems. Some have more pop-ups than a pogo stick, so being prepared to go with the flow could full-well deliver the magic you never expected.

Get used to the idea of using the BTS Skytrain and the MRT rail lines, otherwise getting anywhere fast will likely be a stickler for your trip. Traffic can be a deadlock, especially at peak times of the day. Planning your mode of transport ahead of time could be the key to unlocking extra time in a mind-blowing city.

The city is a food haven for anyone who loves hearty and flavorsome cooking. With so many dishes to try, do your palate a favour and start off with the following favourites: Khao Soi, Pad Thai, Som Tam, Massaman Curry, Laab, Pak Boong, and Penang Curry. And there's plenty more where they came from. With a mix of unique textures, flavors, and cultural influences, don't be surprised if you fall in love with authentic Thai cuisine.

The Thai people generally pride themselves on being respectful and polite, with this you can expect to be greeted with the Wai (palms together at your chest accompanied with a subtle bow of the head) — reciprocate to share the warm sentiment. It is illegal to defame or insult the King or any members of the royal family. To avoid any misunderstanding, steer clear of any mention of his royal highness.

Find flights: AirAsia: https://www.airasia.com/en/gb

Currency: Baht (BHT) 1.00 US Dollar = 31.145097 Thai Baht

Language: Thai

To express gratitude and warm regards, always add khap (only if you're male), or ka (only if you're female) at the end of everything you say, this will score you brownie points with the locals. Khap or Ka is considered a polite way to show respect.

Hello & Goodbye: Sawasdee (sa- whah- dee) (add: Ka/Khap)

Thank you: Kohp koon (add: Ka/Khap)

Yes: Chı̀ No: Mi (add: Ka/Khap)

I don't speak Thai: C̄hạn mị̀ phūd p̣hās̄ʹā thịy

I'm lost: C̄hạn h̄lng thāng

I would like: C̄hạn t̂xngkār

Learn more Thai phrases with IHG: Translator APP.

Calling Code: +66

Capital City: Bangkok

How to Get Around

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leiusre

Bangkok is brimming with transport options and choosing the right mode that is fit for your journey is vital.

Trains: The BTS Skytrain is most likely the most convenient way to reach your destination in the shortest time possible. There are sixty-one stations along three main lines, and it's extending every day. This mode of transport is cheaper than taxis and covers all the major Bangkok neighborhoods. Sukhumvit and Silom being the most popular lines for locals and tourists alike. With waiting times averaging less than five minutes, you can hop on this friendly service and know that you'll experience the convenience of time, as well as air conditioned and clean carriages. Be prepared to be 'packed in' during peak times. Have cash available to buy instant tickets from the machines or take your passport to purchase a Rabbit Card for regular Skytrain use. Your journey will start from around $0.45 for one stop. If you know you'll be making good use of the service, take your passport and buy a rabbit card. Sticking $10 on it should have you covered for a while, and you can top up anytime. The best part is claiming back the cost of the card (and what you didn't spend) at the end of your trip is easy. Just return it to any Skytrain kiosk.

The MRT is Bangkok's rapid underground rail system. Like the Skytrain, the MRT has a quick turnaround and covers vast areas of Bangkok, including the old quarters. Take cash to exchange for tokens or cards.

Both BTS and the MRT are interconnected at popular stations for seamless overlaps in city travel.

Taxis: Bangkok taxis are everywhere and come in an array of funky colours, adding a wash of blue, orange, pink, green, and yellow to an already vivacious bustling scene. Even though flagging a cab down is relatively easy, depending on the time of day, a 10-minute journey may end up taking an hour or so. Traffic is relentlessly jammed pretty much everywhere you go, especially during peak times.

It's also worth noting that some drivers may not have the meter on when you get in, this happens a lot in tourist areas. Be sure to check and ask for "Meter kah/khap?" before you hop in.

Generally, it's very normal for a driver to communicate with you via the passenger window before unlocking the doors and letting you in. Having maps open and your address pinned for easy view can speed up the process.

Paying: Carrying loose coins and small notes is a good way to avoid being (unintentionally) short changed. Some drivers may claim they don't have small coins/notes to give back to you. When you come to pay, round up your fare to the nearest five or 10 baht, this can also make the transaction easier for both parties.

Motorbike Taxis: A popular (and fun) way to travel for short distances, particularly from train stations. The bikes can get into the nooks and crannies of the Soi's and easily duck and dive their way through the hot traffic. Having some basic Thai is recommended, as is being able to communicate your destination. Carrying your own helmet is highly advised, but most will provide one, if you ask.

Basic language to learn:

Go Left: Pị thāng ŝāy

Go Right: Pị thāng k̄hwā

Straight on: Trng pị

Stop here: H̄yud trng nī̂

Tuk-Tuk: A cultural emblem and still a somewhat reliable mode of transport in the heart of Bangkok. Flagging one down shouldn't be too difficult, especially around the tourist area of Siam. Prices will vary wildly and a 10-minute spin could set you back around 300baht. Sharpening up the bartering skills may be essential. Some hotels will have their own free Tuk-Tuk ready and waiting to drop guests at the nearest BTS/MRT station.

Best Hotels

Ariyasom villa.

Address: 65 Sukhumvit Soi 1, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Phone: +662-254 8880-3 Book Now

Nestled in the popular area of Sukhumvit, this authentic boutique Thai hotel is close to a bedrock of shopping malls such as Emquartier, Siam Paragon, and Central world. With just a 10-minute walk to the nearest BTS station, the location is very central and close to attractions such as: Wat Arun Temple, Soi 11 (bars and restaurants) and the famous flower market. The rooms are all beautifully decorated in traditional Thai style and the 'Executive Deluxe Rooms' offer a jacuzzi — perfect for some sweet romance!

Bangkok Tree House

Address: 60 Moo1, Petchaheung Rd soi 26, Bang Nampeung, Phra Pradeang. Samutprakarn, 10130 Bangkok Phone: 082-995-1150 Book Now

An escape from city life and a deep dive into tranquillity. A nature resort on the edge of Bangkok, offering fresh, functional living in a unique (three-storey) tree top unit, designed to bring you closer to the open air. Secluded in the jungle with plenty of adventure and nature ready and waiting, be sure to take advantage of the free bicycle hire. When you're not off exploring your environment, the rooftop terrace enjoys peace and quiet with unrestricted views of the river. Besides this, free ice cream is on offer all day!

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Address: 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Phone: +66 (0) 2 659 9000 Book Now

This five-star resort is the perfect introduction to the Chao Phraya river, otherwise known as the "Lifeblood of the City'' or "The River of Kings'. The 145-year old Mandarin exudes grace and charm and is set among landmarks such as: The Temple of Dawn, China Town, Bangkok's Old Town, The Grand Palace, and ICONSIAM shopping mall (now a new national monument). With complimentary boat shuttles available, you can reach the busy Sathorn Pier (transport hub for boat taxis and BTS Skytrain) in just five to 10 minutes.

The Old Capital Bike Inn

Address: 07 Pra Sumen Road, Pra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200 Phone: +662 629-1787 Book Now

A very affordable and award-winning family run boutique. Brace yourself for all the charisma you can possibly imagine from vintage bicycles and classic decor. Each room has been newly refurbished and restored to its original allure. Throw in the heirloom furniture and you have yourself a charming ambience. The complimentary night-time bike tour is not to be missed, it will have you enjoying the cool breeze and taking in the illuminations of the old town.

Hotel Muse Bangkok

Address: 55/555 Langsuan Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand, 10330 Bangkok Phone: +66 (0) 2 630 4000 Book Now

Inspired by 1920's art décor, this stunning boutique hotel is laden with luxury and set in the thick of the action; strategically placed within easy access to key locations such as Siam, Sukhumvit, and Silom. Aside from the lavish rooms, this hotel boasts an award-winning restaurant and an acclaimed speakeasy rooftop bar.

Skyview Hotel Bangkok: EM DISTRICT

Address: 12 Sukhumvit Soi 24, Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok, 10110 Phone:+66 (0) 2011 1111 Book Now

What can beat an infinity swimming pool, two rooftop bars, one with stunning 360 views (and excellent cocktails) plus a location that puts you a five-minute walk from the Skytrain? And with the best restaurants and a thriving shopping scene on your doorstep (in the beating centre of Phromphong) this hotel pulls out all the stops. With clean, spacious, and modern rooms, plus a stone throw away from Benchasiri park, this hotel offers excellent value for a five-star stay.

Best Restaurants

Jay fai (thai).

Address: 327 Mahachai Rd, Samranras Subdistrict, Phra Nakon District, Bangkok 10200 Thailand Phone: +66 2 223 9384 Website

Jay Fai is one for the foodies. A 74-year-old lady who derailed the perception of street food when she took her side street eatery to Michelin-star status and Netflix fame. Known for her crab omelette and its indulgently sized chunks of mouth melting deliciousness, chef Fai cooks up a storm right before your eyes. The Yellow Crab Curry has also made a name for itself and is the first inline to steal the show from its sister dish. This restaurant holds no heirs and graces, sitting on plastic chairs with only a fan to keep you cool simply adds to the unique charm of this culinary experience. Book months in advance to secure your place or rock up at 8 a.m. to place your name on a reservation list — then expect to wait in line for an hour or two for your 'allocated slot'.

Medini (Italian)

Address: The Continent Hotel Bangkok, 413 Sukhumvit Road. Bangkok 10110, Thailand Phone: +66 2 686 7000 Website

A restaurant located at the bustling Asoke BTS station and bolstered high up in the Continental Hotel. Famous for its free flow alcohol, pizza, and pasta, all freshly made to order. With a warm, yet casual atmosphere and hearty food with a great view, this unbeatable value will have you coming back for more. At THB999 per person, all that is left to do is to decide if you're a 'Sundowner' (5:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.) or a 'Twilighter' (8:00 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.). Book at least five to seven days in advance and don't forget to ask for a window table for views of this sprawling city.

The Smokin' Pug (American BBQ)

Address: 105 Langsuan Road, Lumpini Park, Bangkok 10330 Phone: +66 83 029 7598 Website

Popular for its tasty BBQ pork ribs consequently dubbed as "the best I ever tasted' by many of its visitors. A low-key restaurant with big portions, great beer, and a laid back, chilled out vibe, making you feel right at home. Email two days in advance of reservation or if you feel like staying home, download the FoodPanda app and order in. A small gem of a joint, easily missed if you don't know what you're looking for — check out the map and local landmarks before you go, to avoid turning up like a hot mess.

AESOPS (Greek)

Address: 120 Sala Daeng 1/1, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand Phone: +66 62 567 7751 Website

Famous for their summer-inspired cocktails, party atmosphere, and mouth-watering dishes, you're invited to 'do as the Greeks do'. Perfect for a lively family night out, a celebration, or a simple shindig with friends. Great music, lots of dancing on tables, and plate smashing to your heart's content. The Flaming Saganaki Cheese is a must try and the Hummus is to die for. Hidden in the heart of Silom, but accessible from Saladaeng BTS station (Exit 2). Booking online before you go is essential.

Veganary (Thai/Western - Vegan)

Address: 35/2 Soi Methi Niwet, Sukhumvit 24 Road, Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok, Thailand (Khlong Toei) Phone: 095-564-6053 Website

With six locations dotted around Bangkok, this is a family-run restaurant chain, offering up vegan and gluten-free food. Passionate about debunking the 'vegetables are boring' myth, they present delicious dishes that lure in even the meat lovers. With so much to try, this place could end up being a firm favourite, especially for lunch. A great choice for wandering feet, as booking a table ahead of time is not really needed. Don't miss the Som Tam Thai or Green Curry Spaghetti. The desserts are utterly wonderful, especially the 'Chunky Monkey Ice-Cream & Cake' and any of the super delightful Waffle creations.

Hemingways (North American, Latin and Mediterranean)

Address: Sukhumvit 11 Alley, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand Phone: +66 2 653 3900 Website

One of the oldest 'renaissance' pubs in Bangkok and recently relocated to the funky night spot of Soi 11. A Bangkok 'institution' built in a colonial 1920's style and based on the era and adventures of Hemmingway himself, it's a family-friendly restaurant by day and a sociable, lively bar by night. Bag a comfy sofa on the balcony and watch the theater of this vivacious street go by. Drop in anytime to try the home-inspired recipes, make it before 7 p.m. to take advantage of half-price alcoholic beverages. For Friday through Saturday reservations, booking ahead is a good idea.

Soul Food (Thai)

Address: 56/10 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Soi Thong Lor), Bangkok, Thailand, 10110 Phone: +66-(0)2101 2367 Website

Papaya Salad, Massaman Curry, Khao Soi, and the Soft-Shell Pad Thai are all great places to start when ordering dishes on this menu. The food here is authentic Thai and ordering a few plates to share is the best way to sample it all. A simple, affordable restaurant that's easy to find among Sukhumvit's trendy Thonglor area.

Pizza Pala Romana (Italian)

Address: Asok Intersection, between Terminal 21 and MRT Sukhumvit exit 3 Bangkok, Thailand 10110 Phone: 02 259 1228-9 Website

A very small italian deli tucked away under Asoke BTS Skytrain station (adjacent to the ground floor of Terminal 21 shopping mall) and looking like a non-specific hole in the wall. Arguably, this is the best pizza in Bangkok with a perfect, crunchy sourdough crust, generous toppings, and tasty sauce base layer. Order a meter-long slab and you'll be enjoying it for days. A nice place for a couple to grab a table on the go... and the wine hits the spot, too.

Things to Do

The grand palace.

Address: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang Phra Nakhon Bangkok 10200 Phone: NA Website

Visiting the palace will realistically take a few hours of your time, depending on where you are staying and how you choose to get there. Give yourself between 60 and 90 minutes to enjoy the grounds and the stunning shrines—the Emerald Buddha is a must see.

Showing up without booking is usually fine, or you can play it safe and book via the website one day in advance. There's a 500-baht entry fee and a very strict dress code, so be sure to cover your legs and shoulders at all times—for a small fee you can hire sarongs at the ticket office. Make sure to go early to beat the heat.

Ancient City

Address: 296/1 Moo7 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoomai, Amphoe Samut Prakan, Samut Prakan Province 10280 Phone: 0 2026 8800-9 Website

The Ancient City is a large outdoor museum shaped to reflect the map of Thailand and dedicated to bringing lifelike, (with some smaller scale) representations of the country's oldest and most sacred buildings. All sites are geographically placed within the 320 acres of land and have been reproduced to reflect their original beauty and charm. A full day is necessary to cover the grounds, as is hiring a bicycle (or a cart buggy) upon arrival—and don't forget to look out for the Buffalos on your travels.

This attraction gets busy and can get very, very HOT, so take plenty of water and a few snacks to keep you going. Choosing the coolest day from your schedule is advised. Jump on the Sukhumvit BTS line and get off at Kheha station, upon exit hop in a cab for a five-minute journey. Check the website for the most up to date booking information.

Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise

Address: Asiatique the Riverfront Pier 1 Phone: +662-541-5599 / 098-562-4246 Website

Hop on a pre-booked boat excursion by night and cruise up and down the Chao Phraya River for 2 hours of pure gourmet wine-ing and dining. You'll see the illuminated landmarks of Wat Arun and Temple of the Dawn, whilst being treated to a live band and an 80's/90's disco. Get to the ticketing office early because you'll need to find the company hosting your trip before being able to join the queue. If dining on the river appeals to you, but the boat doesn't, check out the riverside restaurants for some spectacular views and delicious food.

Cafe Culture in Thonglor- Ekkamai

Address: Thonglor - Exit 3 - BTS Station

If you love people watching, quality coffee and a slower pace away from crowds, then checking out the cafe culture in Sukhumvit's hip Thonglor/Ekkamai neighborhoods, may be precisely what you're looking for. Head to 'The Commons' (home to independent vendors, small events and creative workshops) and you will find Roost Coffee Roaster, renowned for excellent coffee and a community approach. Hop across the road to its younger brother, 'Seenspace', for Brave Roasters serving equally delicious coffee, plus craft beers. Whilst in the neighborhood, scoot over to Mocking Tales, a fairy tale cafe, making all your sweet tooth dreams a reality. With a dressing up box for the kids and an Instagram worthy concept, you'll have a magical time. Skip the main meal and go straight for the desserts—the Dragon's Fire Breath is a showstopper.

One more cafe left in you? If yes, pop over to Ekamai and try Blue Dye, a house-turned-cafe. The owner exhibits and sells his own '(un) Fashion Vintage Collection' as well as products from other independent brands. If you're lucky, you may catch a chilled gig on the terrace.

Chinatown - Food Tour

Trails of markets, a catacomb of never-ending alleyways, and a deep network of stunning street food vendors awaiting at every turn. Chinatown is the perfect jollity for explorers and adventurous taste buds. Pre-book a food tour and take advantage of one of the best street food districts in the world; you'll be introduced to the tastiest dishes on offer. Take the tour by night when the main drag bustles with locals and travellers grabbing a spot of dinner and the vibrant colors and delicious smells permeate the senses.

Best Shopping

Icon siam shopping mall.

Address: 299 Soi Charoen Nakhon 5 Charoen Nakhon Road Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San Bangkok 10600 Phone:+66 (0) 2 495 7000 Website

A shopaholic's 'dream come true', all under one roof. Be prepared to give up a full day as this place is an adventure palace sitting proudly on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. It spans seven uniquely designed floors, with a magnificent collection of wide and varied stores. On the ground floor resides a floating market themed food court, it's a cool place replicating the river, and the stalls offer fresh local food!

Terminal 21, Asok.

Address: 88 Sukhumvit Soi 19 (Wattana) Sukhumvit Rd., North Klongtoei, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Phone: 02-108-0888 Website

A walkway directly linked to the BTS Asoke station, leading you straight into an army of lush, independent boutique stores and plenty of brands to feast your eyes on. Each storey represents an airport departure gate, ready to fly you to different parts of the world. You can also find a cinema, restaurants, and bars as you journey through each floor.

Siama Whole Paragon

Address: 991, Rama 1 Road Pathum Wan, Siam. Bangkok 10330 Thailand Phone: +66 2 610 8000 Website

An entertainment hub for the whole family. You can expect to see a lot of the major designer brands, plenty of well-known restaurants and eateries, plus a whole lot of fun for the kids. For some luxurious rest and relaxation, head to the Cineplex and go VIP.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Address: Kamphaeng Phet Road Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand Website

Chatuchak Weekend Market is perfect for finding clothing, antiques, handicrafts, home décor, souvenirs, and art. Sitting on 35 acres, this jaw dropping market of shops, eateries, and stalls has everything you could possibly need. Famous for its sheer size and buzzing atmosphere, no other market in Bangkok can compare. Lovingly known as JJ for short, Chatuchak is an open-air space with very little under cover, so you may want to consider going early before it gets too hot. Wearing comfortable footwear is essential, as is mentally preparing for the weekend crowds.

Central World

Address: 4 4 4/1 2 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Phone: +662 021 9999 Website

At Chit Lom BTS you'll find another world-class shopping hang out, with a unique blend of brands, boutiques, bars, and entertainment. Visit during the winter holidays and you'll be treated to their extravagant display of Christmas trees and beautiful lights.

Address: 444 8th Fl. MBK Center, PhayaThai Rd., Pathumwan Bangkok 10330 Website

MBK is another shopping attraction you can literally get lost in. With an indoor market feel, this Mall is legendary for its competitive prices and budget stalls. Wide-ranging products span across nine floors, from Thai souvenirs to furniture. Visit one of the many spa treatments parlours to pamper your way through what could be a long day.

The Emporium and Emquartier

Address: 46 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Phone: +66 2 269 1000 Website

Three world-class shopping complexes located in the very popular area of BTS Phromphong (Sukhumvit) and surrounded by the beautiful Benjasiri park. A retail and tourism destination in a hub for fabulous dining and entertainment. Situated downtown, this shopping complex is surprisingly less crowded than the other mega malls. Look out for the 40-meter-high waterfall and gourmet food stalls on the ground floor. The cakes and sweet treats are enough to keep your energy levels happy. If you love books, you'll find an ample sized Kinokuniya with plenty of gems and best sellers to get your teeth into.

Neighborhoods to Know

Sukhumvit: Sukhumvit isThailand's longest road, lined with trendy neighborhoods, malls, hotels, bars and restaurants. This action-packed area is not only a fantastic transport hub but is also the main commercial and entertainment district. Home to expats and locals residing in the many high-rise Condominium and side street Soi's.

Siam: Siam is the centerpiece of Bangkok (the old capital), a commercial district with plenty of shopping options and a hub for transport and entertainment. Siam Square is what gives Bangkok its nickname: City of Angels. A place of contrasts, vibrant art, and trendy hangout spots.

Sathorn/Silom : A lively area with plenty of hustle and things to see and do. Whilst Silom covers the southside of Lumpini park and Chao Phraya River, Sathorn is perched on the edge of Silomand is mainly known for being the financial district. Chinatown - The oldest district in Bangkok and famous for its infusion of both Thai and Chinese culture. Known for its bright colors, historical temples, delicious street food, and walks that make you feel like you're really exploring the quintessence of Bangkok.

Regardless of the time of year, Bangkok is always very hot and humid. A tropical 'year-round' climate means you will very rarely need a jacket, but you might need a Poncho.

November through to March is regarded to be the cooler, less humid months. Saying that. temperatures can still soar as high as 90 degrees, especially as the days edge closer towards the hottest month of year, April. Bangkok is prone to sporadic showers of the year and guaranteed during the rainy season, where impressive thunderous storms will have you running for shelter. Throughout the whole year you can expect up to nine to 10 hours of daylight, with the sun setting between 6 - 7 p.m.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month:

January: 70°F to 90°F (Cool Season) February: 73°F to 91°F (Cool Season) March: 77°F to 93°F (Hot Season) April: 79°F to 95°F (Hot Season) May: 79°F to 93°F (Hot Season) June: 79°F to 91°F (Hot Season) July: 79°F to 91°F (Monsoon Season) August: 79°F to 91°F (Monsoon Season) September: 77°F to 90°F (Monsoon Season) October: 77°F to 90°F (Monsoon Season) November: 75°F to 88°F (Cool Season) December: 70°F to 88°F (Cool Season)

Apps to Download

FoodPanda : Food delivery service. iOs | Android

Grab : Private taxi service that works like Uber. iOs | Android

Eatigo : Search by area for restaurant reservation. Look out for promotions and discounts. iOs | Android

AirAsia : The second largest airline in Thailand. An easy and convenient way to book flights for both Thai and Southeast Asia trips. iOs | Android

IHG: Translator : Apple enabled. An English to Thai translator giving you the best phrasing and correct pronunciation. iOs | Android

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Bangkok Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 1, 2024

Bangkok is famous for its chaotic streets, cheap and delicious street food, wild nightlife, and never-ending traffic. But it’s also a city that most travelers either love or hate.

Personally, I hated it when I first arrived. But, when I got to know it more, I changed my mind. Then, when I moved to Bangkok in 2006, I fell madly in love with it.

Most travelers just pass through here when they backpack or travel around Thailand. But there’s a lot to see and do in Bangkok. It’s worth a few days at the least. Because when you look beyond the chaos and peel back Bangkok’s layers, the city comes alive with endless things to do, see, explore, eat, and drink. It’s a city that opens itself up to those who are willing to get past all the temples and backpacker bars.

You just need to know where to look.

This Bangkok travel guide shows you there’s more to Thailand’s “City of Angels” than you think, with tips on how to plan, save money, and make the most of your visit to this hectic and vibrant capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bangkok

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bangkok

1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

The palace was built over the course of three years at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I and is the official residence of the current monarch (although he doesn’t live there anymore; it is just used for official ceremonies). Hidden behind high concrete walls, you’ll see tons of wats (temples), chedis (mound-like structures containing Buddhist relics), carvings, statues, and the famous 15th century Emerald Buddha. This statue has his robes rotated three times a year by none other than Thailand’s king himself. Nearby you’ll find Wat Po to have a larger-than-life golden reclining Buddha statue, and busy massage school. Even if you’re only in Bangkok for a day, you should make it a point to visit the glittering Grand Palace! Try to get one of the free tours as there is minimal signage. It costs 500 THB to enter the Grand Palace and 200 THB to enter Wat Pho.

2. Tour the Chatuchak Weekend Market

Bangkok’s weekend market, the largest such market in the world, is an ideal place to buy anything and everything. It has over 15,000 stalls, making it the best place to get gifts, find knockoffs, barter, and eat some good food. You can find everything here and there’s some really good eats here. Definitely wander around even if you don’t plan on buying anything. It’s open on Saturday and Sunday, 9am-6pm.

3. Explore Lumpini Park

Outdoor enthusiasts will find it hard to tear themselves away from Bangkok’s Lumpini Park. Jogging paths, bicycle paths, picnic areas, chess tables, Tai Chi classes, fitness equipment, and rowboats for rent on the lakes offer plenty to do. The tall trees and quiet setting offer a nice reprieve from busy Bangkok. It’s one of the few green spaces in the city.

4. See Jim Thompson’s House

Jim Thompson was a former American spy and silk merchant in Thailand during the 1950s and 1960s. He built his traditional Thai home in Bangkok and decorated it with gorgeous teak wood furniture and a surrounding garden. He vanished mysteriously in 1967 while in Malaysia, and his house is now a monument to traditional Thai architecture and includes a fabulous guided tour about Jim Thompson and traditional Thai lifestyle. A visit here is one of my favorite things to do in the city. And proceeds are used to help underprivileged kids! The entrance fee is 200 THB and it’s open daily from 10am-6pm.

5. Take in the view from Wat Arun

This is a gorgeous Buddhist temple on the edge of the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace. It has one main spire and four small ones and is so iconic you’ll find it on Thai money. From the top of the main spire you get sweeping views of the city, making for extraordinary photographs during sunrise and sunset (though, at the time of publication construction was going on). The intricate tiled facade reflects the light beautifully during sunrise and sunset. The stairs are steep, so be careful climbing. Admission is 100 THB.

Other Things to See and Do in Bangkok

1. visit the damnoen saduak floating market.

This floating market is just outside of Bangkok. While it exists mostly for the benefit of tourists, I still like visiting. The tours that come here are about half a day and leave early in the morning. It’s not a great place to shop, but the area is good for photography and eating. Open 7am-3pm daily.

2. Temple hop

Bangkok is full of history, temples, and Thai ruins. There are around ten main temples in the city, all with different architectural structures and layouts. You can easily hire someone to take you to all of them in one day, as it only takes a few hours to see them all. If you don’t have that much time, aside from the Grand Palace and Wat Po, make sure you check out Wat Arun, The Temple of the Dawn. Just be sure to dress appropriately, keeping your legs and shoulders covered, as these are functioning temples.

3. Shop ’til you drop

Bangkok has tons of shopping centers (they’re super popular here and sell everything). Make sure you check out Siam Paragon (for designer clothes), Terminal 21 (to see the stunning internationally themed decor), Platinum (for cheap, trendy clothes), Pantip (for cheap electronics), and MBK (for cheap knockoffs).

4. Hang out on Khao San Road

Khao San Road is the infamous backpacker/tourist street in Bangkok. All travel roads lead in and out of here. However, it is more than just a transit hub for travelers, offering a fun nightlife, delicious food, plenty of shopping stalls, tons of people watching, and bustling activity day and night. Post-COVID, it’s become less of a backpacker street and more of a hub for local Thais. It’s still a party though. For something quiter, check out Soi Rambuttri, which is right next door. That street has more chill bars and quieter music.

5. Visit the Temple of the Golden Mount

Only a short distance from Khao San Road, The Temple of the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) features an enormous chedi , a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics. This is one of my favorite temples in the city because of its beautiful golden temple, stunning setting, and wonderful views of the city from the top. At the base of the mountain is an overgrown cemetery for 18th-century plague victims. Entry to the temple itself is free but it costs 50 THB to go to the chedi .

6. Day trip to Ayutthaya

Close to Bangkok is the old capital of the Kingdom of Siam. This historic city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the summer palace and tons of breathtaking and unique temples. Since it is so close to Bangkok, it’s a very popular day-trip destination for tours. Lots of companies offer trips but it’s so easy to get to that I would simply go on your own by train. Train tickets cost 90-130 THB round-trip, with the journey taking 1.5 hours each way. You can visit on a day trip with Get Your Guide for just 900 THB.

7. Enjoy Bangkok’s famous nightlife scene

You’ll never have a problem finding good bars and clubs to go to in Bangkok. Khao San Road and Silom are two of the most popular nightlife spots in the city while Soi Nana (in Chinatown) is famous for it’s cocktail bars and quirky art vibe. Thong Lo is full of bars and clubs frequented by local Thais. Some of my favorite bars are Brick Bar, Whisgars, Teens of Thailand, Cheap Charlies, Craft, and J.Boroski.

8. Eat in Chinatown

First, wander among the lilies, birds of paradise, and orchids at Pak Klong Talad, the flower market at the north end of Chinatown. From there, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls. You can eat your weight in street food here and still not break the bank. It’s one of the best and cheapest places to eat in the city!

9. Watch a puppet show

A huge part of traditional Thai culture revolves around puppetry. Two types are common – Nang (shadow puppets) and Hun (marionettes). If you’re lucky, you can see a show at an outdoor festival. Otherwise, head to the Joe Louis Traditional Thai Puppet Theatre, founded in 1985 by Sakorn Yang-keawsot (whose English name was Joe Louis), where tickets cost around 700 THB for a performance.

10. Spend a hip night out in Thong Lo

The city’s top-end dining and nightlife lies in this trendy neighborhood, including many Western jazz bars and beer gardens. It’s very popular with Bangkok’s young middle and upper classes. The neighborhood is very walkable and a great place for a fashionable night out. Popular spots include Beer Belly, a craft beer bar with beer pong and a 2-for-1 happy hour from 5-8 pm; and Rabbit Hole, a swanky bar with creative cocktails.

11. Boat down the Bangkok canals

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Bangkok used to be full of waterways and canals. While not as many of those exist anymore, you can still see many of the old bridges and stilt houses, and colorful flower gardens crowding the waterways. You can cruise along the Chao Phraya River to see what remains. Thai Canal Tours offers various group and private canal tours, starting at 2,200 THB a full-day tour, including lunch.

12. Wander the Rot Fai Night Market

Rot Fai Market (or Train Market) is an authentic open-air bazaar selling an array of vintage collectibles and memorabilia, from antique furniture to hippy fashion and Mao kitsch. The Train Night Market is absolutely one of the coolest markets in Bangkok. It’s open at night Thursday through Sunday.

13. See a Muay Thai fight

If you want to see a Muay Thai fight in the city, Lumpinee Stadium is the place to go. While Lumpinee has been hosting Muay Thai fights since the 1950s, the new stadium (which opened in 2014) is huge and can hold up to 15,000 spectators. Fight nights are Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday at 6pm and tickets start at 1,600 THB (buy them online directly from the stadium website for the best price).

14. See Wat Suthat & the Giant Swing

Famous for the Giant Swing that meets you at the entrance of the temple, Wat Suthat is one of Bangkok’s most memorable tourist sites. The Giant Swing was first constructed in 1784 but was replaced in 2005 with an entirely golden teak one (the temple was added in 1807). Aside from the swing, the temple features a magnificent traditional roof, ancient murals, and hand-carved teak door panels. The huge complex includes multiple large temples on the property as well as smaller statues and courtyards. Entrance is 20 THB and it’s open daily from 9am-6pm.

15. Tour the Bangkok Butterfly Garden & Insectarium

This small garden is located around the corner from the Chatuchak Weekend Market. There are over 500 butterflies flying around this domed enclosure, which also features a wide range of flowers, ferns, and even some waterfalls. Entry is free and it’s open Tuesday-Sunday. The butterfly garden is located next to three sprawling parks to continue your day in nature: Queen Sirikit Gardens, Rod Fai Park, and Chatuchak Park. It’s the perfect area to relax and take a stroll.

16. Visit the Bangkokian Museum

This folk museum depicts middle-class life in Bangkok during the 1950s with a collection of three wooden houses filled with family items from that period (the building is from that era as well). It’s small, so you don’t need a lot of time. It’s also free and includes a guided tour.

17. Peruse the National Gallery

This portrait museum has some amazing portraits of the royal family as well as paintings done by the late king, who was an artist and musician in his spare time. It’s located in the former Royal Mint building, they have excellent interim contemporary art exhibits from local artists on the ground floor. Admission is 200 THB.

18. Take a food tour

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Koh Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

Bangkok Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds start around 170-220 THB per night on Khao San Road, where accommodation is cheapest. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm in more upscale hostels (with air conditioning) costs around 300-500 THB.

Private rooms are popular and vary in price, but generally cost around 700-900 THB. Although there’s a growing hostel scene downtown, I find the rooms expensive – especially when you can get cheaper accommodation and meet more travelers on Khao San Road.

Free Wi-Fi is standard, as are free linens and air conditioning, though free breakfast is not. Most hostels in Bangkok often have a range of additional fun amenities, such as swimming pools, outdoor terraces, and free bikes rentals. Most also have a bar or café on-site as well but shared kitchen facilities are not common.

Note that many hostels only accept cash.

Budget hotel prices – Private rooms in small guesthouses or hotels (especially those in the backpacker area of Khao San Road) start at 600 THB for a double room with a private bathroom. If you want something cheaper, you can find single rooms in other areas from 220 THB (fan, shared bathroom), and double rooms from 320 THB (fan, shared bathroom).

If you want a decent hotel room, however, expect to pay at least 1000 THB for a double with a private bathroom.

Quality varies greatly so be sure to look at the reviews online. Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning and many offer free breakfast as well.

As for Airbnb, you can find full apartments for rent averaging around 850-1,200 THB while private rooms start around 480 THB per night.

Average cost of food – Thai cuisine uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. Thailand’s neighboring countries all influence the country’s flavorful cuisine which is aromatic and spicy with a variety of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries that differ based on region.

Rice and noodles are central to Thai food, while the most popular meats are pork, chicken, fish, and seafood. Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

In Bangkok, you can eat from the street vendors for between 40-70 THB per meal, purchase a bag of freshly cut fruit or Thai iced tea for 20 THB, or get a grilled chicken, rice, and som tam meal for 150 THB. For the best pad thai in the city, go-to Pad Thai Thip Samai, where you can get a very filling dish for 75 THB.

Seafood, even from street vendors, is more expensive. Expect to pay 200-400 THB for a seafood dish. Sit down Thai restaurants begin at 65 THB per meal.

Western food begins at around 150 THB and increases from there. A pizza is 250 THB, a pasta dish is 320-400 THB, and a burger is around 250-300 THB. If you’re eating downtown, expect a Western breakfast or lunch to cost between 200-350 THB. A Western fast food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs around 300 THB.

Many of the malls have huge (and popular) food courts where you can get a filling meal for around 60-100 THB. Like the rest of Thailand, if you eat at the street markets like the locals, you’ll be hard-pressed to break the bank.

When it comes to drinking, going to bars can become pricey. The cheapest beers cost about 70 THB each, a glass of wine costs 180 THB, and cocktails cost around 400 THB. You can save money by buying beers from 7-Eleven.

For non-alcoholic drinks, a latte is around 65 THB and soda is around 25 THB.

If you’re looking for places to eat, some places I like are Yasothon Duck Larb, T & K Seafood, Shoshana, Bella Napoli, Isao, 55 Pochana, and Kuang Seafood.

A week’s worth of groceries, including the basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat costs around 700 THB but given how cheap the street food is in Bangkok, I wouldn’t recommend doing heavy grocery shopping because it will cost you more than just eating out.

Backpacking Bangkok Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget in Bangkok, expect to spend about 950 THB per day. This covers a lower-end hostel dorm, eating street food for all your meals, drinking beers from 7-Eleven, a few temple visits, and using public transportation to get around. If you want to have more fun, stay downtown, and maybe some nicer meals or a massage or two, budget around 1,275 THB per day.

On a mid-range budget, expect to spend about 1,925 THB a day. This budget covers a private room in a two-star hotel/guesthouse, eating at more local sit-down restaurants and enjoying a few more drinks, splurging on a few taxis, and visiting more attractions in the city. On this amount per day, you aren’t going to live the high life, but you won’t want for anything either.

A “luxury” budget of 3,850 THB per day or more covers a comfortable room with air-conditioning, any meals you want, more drinking, as many activities and tours you want, and everything in between. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Bangkok Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bangkok can be a cheap city if you avoid splashing out on fancy food, cocktails, and big name hotels. Sticking to Thai places and cheap accommodation, you’ll be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money. Nevertheless, here are some ways to save money in Bangkok:

• Eat from the street stalls – Food from street vendors in Bangkok is some of the best Thai food I have ever had. The locals eat here; you should eat here too. Not only is it the best food around, it’s also the cheapest!
• Make sure your taxi turns on the meter – All taxis are required to use a meter when they have passengers. However, most want to charge a higher flat rate instead of using the meter — especially if there’s traffic. If this happens, just walk away and see if a different taxi will turn on their meter for you.
• Negotiate with tuk-tuk drivers – Unlike taxis, the tuk-tuk drivers do not have meters, so be sure to set the fixed price before you take off. They are very friendly, but if you act like a naive tourist, you will get taken advantage of!
• Use public transportation – Locals use the extensive bus and BTS systems to get wherever they need to go in Bangkok. To save money, do the same. A 20-minute taxi ride might cost you 120 THB, while the same ride in a bus might only cost 10 THB.
• Take the boats – There’s a limited canal system in Bangkok that can get you around parts of the city quicker (especially from Khao San Road to Siam Square) and cheaper than taxis or the SkyTrain. Prices are between 5-15 THB depending on the distance.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you not only a free place to stay but can share their insider tips and advice too. It’s the best way to save money on accommodation while connecting with locals.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours help you get oriented within a city while picking up some interesting facts and history in the process. To see all the highlights and connect with a local guide, check out Bangkok Walking Tours or Free Bangkok Walks. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices will be. So shop in packs for the best deals.
• Save money on rideshares – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber, which is no longer available in Thailand. It works the same way: you hire a local to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi and you don’t have to worry about getting scammed.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Bangkok, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Bangkok has tons of cheap, fun, and social hostels as well as good budget hotels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay:

• Mad Monkey Hostel
• @Hua Lamphong Hostel
• Lub d Bangkok Siam
• D&D Inn
• Bangkok Tree House

How to Get Around Bangkok

Public transportation – Bangkok’s public buses are the cheapest way to get around the city. They’re run by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, whose website has detailed information on various routes. Air-conditioned buses typically start at 10-18 THB and go up based on distance. A weekly pass costs 255 THB.

Fares for ordinary buses (with fans) start at 7-8 THB and also go up based on distance. A weekly pass for these types of buses costs 120 THB.

Commonly known as the BTS or the Skytrain, this is an elevated transit system with fares costing 16-52 THB per trip or 140 THB for a one-day pass. If you plan to be in Bangkok for a while, look at buying the Rabbit Card, which costs 200 THB, including 100 THB in pre-loaded fares. You can get a day pass for 140 THB which covers the entire BTS system that includes smart buses and express ferries. A 15-trip pass is 450 THB.

The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company is the main ferry service along the Chao Phraya River. The central pier is located at BTS Saphan Taksin, and fares are 13-32 THB. There is also a special tourist boat that runs between Phra Athit and Sathorn every 30 minutes between the hours of 9:30am and 6pm.

Canal boats are especially useful for getting to and from Siam Square and the surrounding area during rush hour. This is one of the best and cheapest ways to get from Khao San Road to downtown Bangkok. It only takes 15 minutes and prices in general start from 10 THB.

The Metropolitan Rapid Transit (or MRT) is the city’s underground train system. It connects most of downtown with some of the suburbs. It uses tokens instead of tickets, but metro cards are available for frequent travelers. Fares cost 15-40 THB per trip, depending on your destination.

Taxi – Taxis are my favorite way to get around the city, as they’re clean, comfortable, and there’s no need to haggle over the price. However, only get in a cab that uses the meter. The rate for the first kilometer is 35 THB, with an additional baht for every 50 meters after that; a 5 kilometers (3 miles) journey runs about 60 THB.

Motorcycle taxis are another popular way to get around the city, usually costing between 20-100 THB per trip. You tell your driver where you want to go, negotiate a price (haggle hard!), strap on the helmet, and speed off into traffic. They’re the quickest (but the scariest way) to get across Bangkok.

Tuk-Tuk – Tuk-tuks are noisy, polluting, and uncomfortable. They require hard bargaining skills and are only worth taking once for the experience. I sometimes like them for short distances but generally prefer a cab to a tuk-tuk. Fares vary greatly based on your haggling skills but expect to be first quoted around 100 THB.

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber. It works the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi.

When to Go to Bangkok

November to the end of February is the best time to visit Bangkok if you want pleasant weather. Bangkok is “coolest” during this time but still averages a hot daily high around 29°C (85°F). This is also the driest time of year. However, because this coincides with Christmas and New Year, expect big crowds and inflated prices.

The shoulder season (April to June) is the hottest time of year to visit Bangkok, with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (100°F). If you have to come during this time, try to make it for the Thai New Year (Songkran) in April. Songkran is the largest water festival in the world, and you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

Avoid July to October if you can. This is monsoon season and rains can be heavy and unpredictable. I’m not saying it’s going to rain 24/7, but it rains more often and more heavily than other times of the year. Prices are usually cheaper during this time though.

How to Stay Safe in Bangkok

Bangkok is a safe place to backpack and travel, even for solo travelers and even solo female travelers. That being said, it’s also an incredibly chaotic and busy city. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime you’ll face in Bangkok. Always keep your valuable secure and out of reach — especially in crowded tourist areas and when on public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe exploring the city, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Some people will try to rip you off, including taxi drivers who refuse to turn on their meters. If the driver won’t turn on their meter, just get out and find one who will.

If you’re worried about scams, read this post on common travel scams to avoid so you can stay vigilant.

Some areas of Bangkok are all about partying, and the biggest incidents happen when people are drunk and stupid. Avoid illegal substances at all costs as Thailand is very, very strict on drugs and they don’t cut foreigners a break. Expect huge fines and jail time if you get caught.

When you go out drinking, only bring the money you need for the night. Leave your wallet at home.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are just in case.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Bangkok, this post answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bangkok Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Bangkok Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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• Where To Stay
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Plan Your Trip to Bangkok: Best of Bangkok Tourism

Travel Advice

Essential bangkok.

Where to stay

Where to eat

How to do Bangkok in 3 days

Shopping guide to Bangkok

Browse collections

If you’re feeling fancy-ish.

Bangkok on a dime

Over-the-top pampering

Temple-hop through the city

Hit the markets

More great cities for famous street food

Bangkok Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing bangkok.

LouiseBlakemore

Book a boat and take a ride around the khlongs. We did this on our own so we were able to stop and take pics and chat with locals. Walk. Walk. Walk. This is the way to see the city, and it's safe.

deepak4ualways

The place has some of the biggest and crowded malls where you can get all sorts of products like electronics, clothing, etc. A definite place for shopaholics.

Bangkok is popular for its culinary diversity among many. Which you see will be a true fact once you step out walking. There are mouth-watering food stalls everywhere you go.

A large bustling city with many very varied neighborhoods each offering something different for people of all tastes and pockets. Exciting and vibrant with a lot of great cultural sites for those that like history and culture. Foodies will be spoiled for choice with everything from fantastic cheap street food and food courts to top-end restaurants as well.

Bangkok is a busy city. It's also very friendly and an excellent place for food lovers. No need to mention the nightlife. They wrote songs about it and have made hit movies catering to bizarre imaginations and sometimes a not-so-bizarre reality, that is Bangkok at night. Mostly though, it's a safe and friendly place.

Bangkok, the other City of Angels that never sleeps. Bangkok is full of things to do and see from ancient monuments to great restaurants. Easy to get around by Skytrain, underground, tuk-tuk, taxi or a trundling ancient bus. Bangkok is a must-visit city that caters for all tastes and lifestyles.

What is the best way to get there?

Bangkok is served by two airports, the Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK). The latter is a hub for low-cost carriers including Air Asia and Nok Air and mainly offers domestic and regional flights.

Do I need a visa?

Thailand has many bilateral agreements in place with other nations that allow visa-free travel. To see if your country is on that list please  check here .

If your country is not listed, you will need to apply for a visa at your nearest Thai embassy. You can  check here  for more information on types of visas.

When is the best time to visit?

November through January: Bangkok is hot and steamy no matter what time of year you visit, however, the very best time to visit is late November to mid-January. Known as the “cool season,” the temperatures sit around 90 Fahrenheit (36 Celsius).

The ferry on the Chao Phraya river is also convenient — if and only if — you are heading somewhere close to the river.

motorcycle taxi

Motorcycle taxis are cheap, fast but can be scary for the uninitiated. Tuk Tuks are used by both tourists and locals alike; please bargain before jumping on.

skytrain and subway

The BTS Skytrail and the MRT subway provide another inexpensive way to get around town. Both train systems are limited and only cover portions of the city, so definitely map out your route before setting out. Also note that these two lines of public transportation run separately and don't share a ticketing system. However, they do have a few connecting stations—which is helpful if you need to cross from one to the other.

The easiest way into the city is through a metered taxi. Do not use the limo or taxi services offered by touts. They can tend to swarm around you once you have cleared customs. These touts will charge rates that can be as much as 200% to 300% of normal metered taxi rates.

For more detailed information on getting around, you can refer to  this article .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Indochina Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

220 Volts / 50 Hz. Plugs are Type A, B, C, F (https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/)

What is the local currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes and no. Cards are accepted very widely but if you intend to visit street stalls or use tuk tuks/motorcycle taxis, it is useful to have cash on hand.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip, restaurants.

Waiters get the loose change left in the plate unless there's a special service reward of 20 baht in the hand.

Get the fare rounded up to the next even number.

Only massage therapists get a substantial tip between 50-100 baht.

Hotel porters

Porters and others giving small services may get a standard 20 baht gratuity.

Are there local customs I should know?

The king is very highly regarded in Thailand, as evidenced by the pictures displayed everywhere. Do not say or do anything disrespectful of the king or the royal family, even to the extent of stomping on a Thai coin or banknote which has been dropped and is rolling/blowing away. (It bears an image of the King's head, and is highly insulting to be touched by your feet.)

Royal Anthem

Before each performance at movie theatres, the Thai Royal Anthem - known as Phleng Sansoen Phra Barami (เพลงสรรเสริญพระบารมี) or sometimes more simply as "Kha Wora" is played. It is mandatory to stand up during the playing of this Thai royal anthem.

Hailing taxis

When hailing taxis, it is common to keep your hand horizontal, fingers facing down. Holding your hand with fingers up is considered rude.

Temples and Monks

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Women particularly should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders and knees. Many temples state as you enter that photography is not permitted. Even if there is no sign, please be respectful and consider whether it is appropriate to be taking flash photographs in a place of worship. Even more so if monks are present worshipping.

Always remove your shoes when entering temples (the same rule applies when entering a person's home), and do not sit with your feet towards the Buddha. Sit either cross-legged, or with your feet tucked behind you.

One of the most important points of etiquette often overlooked by some travellers is basic personal hygiene. Thai people take their personal hygiene and appearance very seriously. Since Thailand is a hot, humid, tropical country, showering frequently is essential.

Loud or abusive expressions of anger and temper tantrums should be avoided at all costs. Many things in Thailand often don't go according to plan, and visitors are advised to take a very calm attitude to various nuisances. Try to remain calm and smile despite your annoyance, and in the end you will probably get what you want.

• Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
• Akara Hotel
• Banyan Tree Bangkok
• The Quarter Chaophraya by UHG
• SEEN Restaurant & Bar Bangkok
• Spectrum Lounge & Bar
• Blue Sky Rooftop Bar
• Riverside Terrace
• Amritsr Sukhumvit 22
• Chatuchak Weekend Market
• Siam Paragon
• Wat Phra Chetuphon
• Khaosan Road
• Pratunam Market
• Half-Day Railway Market and Floating Market Tour in Thailand
• Longtail boat 2 hrs - Bangkok Canal tour
• Three BEST Temples Bangkok City Tour "Must Visit"
• Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food Tuk-Tuk Tour
• Small Group Tour to Ayutthaya Temples from Bangkok with Lunch

Ultimate 3 Days in Bangkok – A Local’s guide to The Perfect Bangkok Itinerary

Written By: Stella Saintis

City Guides , Thailand

Updated On: January 8, 2023

Spending three days in Bangkok and figuring out the perfect Bangkok Itinerary?  Well, we have got you covered. 3 days in Bangkok is just the right amount of time to explore Thailand’s capital before moving on to see the rest of the country.

Bangkok is the most exciting city in Southeast Asia and makes for an excellent first stop on any Thailand itinerary. We have gone back to Thailand many times during our 20 years of travel and are always drawn to Bangkok. Thailand has a strong tourism infrastructure, and while Bangkok can be overwhelming at first, once you have spent some time in the city, you will fall in love with it as we have.

Table of Contents

Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary in 3 Days

To help you in your plan your trip to Bangkok, we’ve partnered with local Bangkok resident, Stella Saintis to create this Bangkok Itinerary. Between our experience as tourists and her local expertise, this Bangkok travel guide will help you make the most out of your 3 days in Bangkok.

• Day 1 in Bangkok –  Chao Phraya River – Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Khaosan Road
• Day 2 in Bangkok – Chatuchak Weekend Market, Jim Thompson House, Bangkok Art & Cultural Center, Erawen Shrine, Neon Night Market, Soi 11
• Day 3 in Bangkok – Sampeng Lane Market, Golden Buddha Temple, Lumphini Park, Thai Cooking Class, Rooftop Bar
• Day 4 – Optional Bonus Day Trip

Hi everyone, I’m Stella. As a resident of the Bangkok, I feel that three days in Bangkok gives you enough time to see and do a lot of the top attractions that the city has to offer. If you follow this Bangkok travel guide, your trip to the city will check off all the top attractions. So sit back and relax because we are going to help you make the most of your time in Bangkok and plan an itinerary to the land of smiles. Bangkok is a huge city, but it is not impossible to see and do a lot during your brief stay.

Three Day Bangkok Itinerary

Bangkok is a huge sprawling metropolis. There are so many things to in Bangkok, that it is important to make sure you make the most of your time there. When putting this day by day Bangkok itinerary together, I wanted to give you a good balance of seeing the top attractions as well as experiencing the culture and food that Bangkok has to offer. This Bangkok itinerary shares the best things to do in Bangkok for first-time visitors.

• Fun fact: in Thai, Bangkok is known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon which is actually a shortened version of its longer name that is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest place name.

Here is an interactive map (Just click on it to open in another window) that will help you see what kind of distances you will be covering as well as where everything is in relation to each other.

Day 1 in Bangkok

There are many places to base yourself in Bangkok. We recommend Banglamphu (which is famous for the backpackers street known as Khao San Road. It is also a great base for day 1 in Bangkok as it is close to the Chao Praya River and most of the top things to see on your Bangkok Itinerary are located here. From the Emerald Buddha to the Reclining Buddha, day 1 has it all.

Make your way to the Chao Phraya river either to The Taskin Bridge or in Banglamphu near Khao San Road and board either a tourist boat or the local boat. Both stop at the attractions along the Chao Phraya.

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Begin your Bangkok itinerary at  the Grand Palace first thing in the morning. We recommend going early as it gets busy fast. This is one of the top Bangkok attractions, so it makes the perfect place to start your Bangkok adventure.

Inside the grounds sits the famous Wat Phra Kaew aka Temple of the Emerald Buddha. You are allowed to go in and see it but no pictures are allowed. Wat Phra Kaew is still a working temple and The Emerald Buddha (which is actually made of jade), is Thailand’s most sacred Buddha.

My favorite things about the Grand Palace are all the golden statues and jeweled mosaics that are simply breathtaking. The buildings are gorgeous and the grounds are meticulously landscaped.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Palace

Dress Code: Make sure to dress properly when visiting – covered shoulders and legs – since there are sacred temples located inside the palace complex there is a strict dress codea. You will not be allowed in if you are not dressed properly. If you are not prepared, the Grand Palace does offer clothing to borrow.

We recommend a guided tour of the Grand Palace. We had visited it several times before, but it wasn’t until we had a tour that we appreciated its history and understood its significance. P

• Hours:  8:30 am – 3:30 pm
• Cost:  500 baht; includes ticket to Vimanmek Mansion and Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall (valid within 7 days of purchase)

How to get to the Grand Palace

• The Grand Palace is easily accessible by taxi, tuktuk, Chao Phraya River Express or Grab Taxi app. It is easy to get around from the Grand Palace along the Chao Phraya River to see the rest of your sites on this 1 day itinerary.
• Or take the skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station. This stop is at the Chao Phraya River. You can then hop on the Chao Phraya Express which stops at the Grand Palace Complex.
• There are local water taxis that can take you to the Grand Palace as well.
• See our video on how to navigate the Chao Phraya River.

Wat Pho and Reclining Buddha

The Thai word for temple is ‘wat,’ and your next stop is Wat Pho. From the Grand Palace, walk just behind to find one of the most famous Thai temples in Bangkok. Wat Pho houses the famous Reclining Buddha. It is a massive golden statue that takes up the entire temple.

Located just behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, you’ll be able to see two of the most famous Buddhas in Bangkok at one time. At 46 metres (150 feet) long and 15 metres (49 feet) tall, the reclining Buddha is one of the largest in the world.

At the back of the grounds is a famous Thai massage school. If you feel tired from all of the walking, why not stop by for a foot massage? They are rumored to be the best and are quite affordable.

Tips for Visiting Wat Pho

Dress Code: Again, I should note that proper dress is required when visiting this temple. All temples in Thailand have a strict dress code that everyone follows. Visitors should have their shoulders and legs covered. I recommend having a light shirt to throw on and a long skirt or pants is best. They do provide a cover-up at this temple for visitors who are not dressed appropriately.

• Opening Hours:  8:00 am – 6:30 pm
• Cost:  100 baht (with a free bottle of water!)
• Accessible via  taxi, tuktuk, or Grab Taxi

After visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, you will probably be hungry. Grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the banks of the river that offers a view of Wat Arun, your next destination.

I recommend The Deck, which has great drinks and food.

Wat Arun – Temple of the Dawn

After lunch we continue the rest of day 1 of our three day Bangkok itinerary across the river at Wat Arun. It takes no time to ride a ferry across the river from Wat Pho and the Grand Palace to Wat Arun Temple. Wat Arun is better known as the Temple of the Dawn. Plus The ferry ride is just 3 baht! (about 10 cents)

You may recognize this temple’s central spire as it is famous in the skyline of Bangkok along the river. I loved visiting simply because I got to see another stunningly beautiful Thai temple. Be sure to keep an eye out for the row of golden buddhas.

• Opening Hours:  8:30 am – 5:30 pm
• Cost:  100 baht
• Accessible via  taxi, tuktuk, or ferry

Hire a Longtail Boat

At the end of this Bangkok guide, we give information for an extra day to take a day trip out of the city to explore the floating market. But if you don’t have time, hiring a long tail boat to explore the back canals of the Chao Phraya. Known as Klongs, these Bangkok Canals are what gives the city its name, “The Venice of the East.”

Here you can see smaller markets without having to go a long way out of the city. is a really special experience. It takes you off the main river through the locks and into the residential neighborhoods of Bangkok that are located on the water.

Plus, there is a small floating market where you can feed the fish, buy a beer, and experience what they are like without having to go out of the city. You can hire a private longtail boat anywhere along the Chao Phraya. Cost for entire boat is 1000 baht. You can book in advance as well.

5. Khaosan Road (Khao San Road)

From Wat Arun, take the ferry back across the river and grab a taxi (or walk ) over to Khao San road. No trip to Bangkok would be complete without spending at least some time in this famous Backpackers hangout.

There are plenty of souvenir shops and a lot of street food and Thai food stalls. Khao San Road is my favorite place to eat Pad Thai and people watch. Make sure to have a Thai massage here. There are many to choose from and they are cheap. After all of the walking, you may also opt for a foot massage or even a fish massage.

Khao San Road is a popular street for backpackers to hang out and stay in Bangkok. It is also a great place for bar hopping and partying. You’ll want to spend the evening here to get a vibe for this quirky spot.

After your message, you can grab a bite to eat for dinner at one of the many restaurants on Khao San Road, you can’t go wrong. Or try some of the street food options available. They are cheap and delicious eats.   Keep an eye out for the vendors selling up fresh bugs! Be brave and give it a try – I once had an entire meal of just bugs!

If you want to take a break before experiencing Bangkok’s nightlife make you’re way to Wat Saket (Golden Mount) to watch Sunset. It is just a 20 minute walk from Khao San Road and offers a beautiful view of Bangkok as the sun goes down.

Bangkok Nightlife

Those looking to party in Bangkok should stay in Khao San road for the evening. There is also a lot of accommodation around Khao San Road. This road draws lots of tourists every night and is a great introduction to the party vibe of Bangkok. Plus, you’ll probably meet a lot of fellow travelers to get recommendations for your travels around Thailand.

It is most popular with backpackers and budget travelers due to the large number of cheap hostels in the area and affordable drinks at the numerous bars. The most famous drinks on Khao San Road are known as ‘buckets’ and essentially are a pail filled with your choice of alcohol and mixer. Bottoms up!

• Opening Hours:  24 hours, though most bars are open in the evenings
• Cost:  Free to walk around; one of the cheaper places to drink and shop in Bangkok
• Accessible via  taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi app

You have now finished day one in Bangkok. It is time to head back to your hotel and rest up.

Day 2 in Bangkok

On the second day in Bangkok, check out some more famous cultural sights, and markets of Bangkok.

Note: 2 days in Bangkok is a good amount of time for most people, so if you decide to move on after today, you will have seen most of the city highlights.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

If your visit happens to span a weekend, I highly recommend checking out this famous Chatuchak weekend market. This is a great places to start day 2 of your Bangkok Itinerary.

The sheer size of this market is part of what makes it such a popular destination in Bangkok. Shoppers can find just about anything here, at crazy cheap prices. The best time to visit is earlier in the day on the weekends, before the crowds and infamous Bangkok heat hit.

If you get hungry while shopping, there are small food stalls located in one section of the market where you can grab some Pad Thai or Green Curry. They also have places to get a Thai massage if you need to relax (and enjoy some AC!)

• Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
• Cost: Free to walk around! Only spend on what you want to buy (and everything is super cheap)!
• Accessible via BTS Mo Chit, MRT Mo Chit, or taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi app

Jim Thompson House

After shopping, take the BTS Skytrain down to another famous landmark. The Jim Thompson House is a great place to visit, especially for those interested in Thai architecture and art.

This museum is a tribute to the man, Jim Thompson, an American who came to Thailand and started a textile business to promote Thai silk. His business is still thriving to this day. Many people come to visit his house as it is an excellent example of different Thai architectural styles.

During the tour, the guide tells visitors all about the life of Jim Thompson and his mysterious death in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia (they never found his body!).

While the house is lovely, my favorite part was the jungle-like garden outside. It made me completely forget the noise and chaos of the city.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Cost: 200 baht
• Accessible via BTS National Stadium or taxi/tuk-tuk/Grab Taxi app to Jim Thomspon house

Bangkok Art and Culture Center

Just down the road from the Jim Thompson House is the Bangkok Arts and Thailand Cultural Centre. This is a great location for those interested in seeing contemporary art exhibits or cultural events. If you are wanting to add some cultural experiences to your Bangkok trip planner, this is a good place to start. There are also cafes, bookshops, craft shops, and art galleries.

The exhibition and events regularly change, so be sure to  check their website  in advance for an up to date look at what is being offered. 

• Opening Hours:  Closed Monday, Tuesday-Sunday open from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Cost:  Free!
• Accessible via  BTS National Stadium

Bangkok Malls – Siam Paragon and MBK Center

You are now in the heart of downtown and a trip to Southeast Asia wouldn’t be complete without exploring some of its megamalls. Bangkok has some of the largest malls in the world.

One of my favorite places to escape the heat is Siam Paragon. This massive mall has an entrainment complex, movie theater, luxury brand names and it even had luxury indoor car dealerships. Grab an iced coffee and follow the maze of indoor walkways to the different shopping centres.

Located between the Bangkok Arts and Culture Center and your next destination, are some of the biggest malls in South East Asia You can spend as long as you like in the malls. Once you have taken advantage of that air conditioning and finding deals at the MBK Center, continue walking to Erawan Shrine.

Erawan Shrine

This Hindu shrine is a major landmark in the middle of Bangkok. And one of the many shrines and temples you’ll find in the city. Erawan shrine is dedicated to the god of creation, was originally built in 1956 to ward off bad luck for a hotel that was built nearby, but now draws hundreds of people every day.

It is interesting to see how the throne is incorporated into the life of locals, who stop by during breaks, or on their way to and from work. You can also sometimes catch a traditional dance performance by the dancers hired by worshippers to give thanks for their prayers.

• Opening Hours:  6:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Cost:  Free
• Accessible via  BTS Skytrain to Chit Lom

Neon Night Market

The Neon Night Market is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok at night. No trip to Bangkok would be complete without exploring it at night and the Neon Night Market is the perfect place to do so.

You might be feeling hungry for dinner by now. While there are a multitude of restaurants in the malls downtown, I recommend walking up the Neon night market. This is also a great place to grab authentic Thai street food and many other Thai dishes food dishes like Pad Thai. But you’ll also find seafood, grilled cheese, octopus, ribs, and MUCH more!

There are also a few bars and place to buy beers and drinks, including a ‘galaxy cocktail,’ which is a glittery concoction that looks too fancy to even drink.

• Opening Hours:  5:00 pm – 12:00 am
• Cost:  All food and drinks are very affordable (few hundred baht).
• Accessible via  BTS Chit Lom

Sukhumvit Soi 11

If you want to continue your night out, head down to Soi 11, and the rooftop bar Above Eleven. It offers fantastic views of the city. While it may not be the towering rooftop in other hotels, its s open-air design is the perfect place to end the night. 

Just around the corner, you can also find the Havana bar down a small alley off Soi 11. It’s a secret speakeasy with a Cuban theme that you can only access by plugging in code inside a phone booth. 

Ask the guy selling Cubano sandwiches in front of the phone booth for the password.

There are plenty of other bars and nightclubs in the area so stay out late and go bar hopping. This area makes for a fun night out in Bangkok!

• Opening Hours:  Most bars stay open until about 2:30 am
• Cost:  Drinks cost from 90-180 baht depending on the bar.
• Accessible via  BTS Nana, or taxi/tuktuk/Grab Taxi app

Going out late at night is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. There’s a reason  the Hangover  chose Bangkok for its sequel. It’s party central. If you would like to explore another popular late-night area check out a Soi Cowboy.

Located just off the BTS, this street is one of a few red light districts in Bangkok. You may have heard of its ‘ping pong’ shows but we recommend skipping these as ther e is a very real problem in Bangkok with human trafficking.

Instead, walk through the street to see the red neon lights and make your way to Soi 11 which is a popular late night hang out full of bars and clubs (see above). 

• Hours:  Most bars stay open until about 2:30 am
• Cost:  Drinks are from 90-180 baht depending on the bar.
• Accessible via  BTS Asoke, MRT Sukhumvit, or taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi app

It’s been a long day, but you have now spent 2 days in Bangkok. Are you ready for your final day in the city?

Day 3 in Bangkok

Now that you have spent 2 days in Bangkok you are probably feeling very comfortable. It is now time to delve in to a few more local experiences.

The final day 3 Bangkok Itinerary takes you to Chinatown, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bangkok. You will then walk to Lumpini Park (for a bit of green) and the Sala Daeng area for a cooking class and famous rooftop bar.

 Bangkok is an exciting city and three days is enough to get a taste of its energy. So, let’s get started with your final day in the City of Angels.

Sampeng Lane Market

On your last day in Bangkok, we will start in Chinatown! Take the MRT to Hua Lamphong station and walk down the popular Yaowat road to the Sampeng Lang Market (also referred to as Soi Wanit 1 by some). This tiny walking street in Chinatown offers a unique shopping experience.

What makes this market appealing is the fact that shoppers can find just about anything here,  including fabrics, electronics, toys, beauty supplies and much more.

The maze of streets that make up this market means you may get lost at some point, but that’s part of the fun! Plus, The street is really narrow and it can get congested. But if you want a shopping experience that is completely different from what you are used to, I recommend checking it out.

Try and give yourself time to really immerse yourself in this Chinatown staple. The best part is that everything is sold at wholesale prices.

• Hours:  8:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Cost:  Free! Just depending what you want to spend while shopping.
• Accessible via  MRT Hua Lamphong or taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi app
• Read our post on how to  Bargain like a pro.   When shopping at markets, you will have to barter over the price. In Bangkok, we recommend never accepting the first price they say. So have some fun and start talking them down. It’s a tradition!

Wat Traimit (Golden Buddha Temple)

After walking, and maybe shopping, on Sampeng Lane, visit the famous Wat Traimit, or the Golden Buddha Temple. Inside this temple sits the largest solid gold Buddha statue in the world!

This temple is made up of four floors. The Golden Buddha is located on the 4th floor of the temple. Underneath on the 2nd and 3rd floors are the Chinese Cultural Center. The museum sheds light on the history of the Chinese in Bangkok as well as information on the discovery of the Golden Buddha.  I found it very interesting, and suggest you get the ticket that includes all the levels.

• Hours:  8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Cost:  100 baht for just the Chinese Cultural Center. 40 baht just to see the Golden Buddha. 140 baht for both (which I recommend!)

Lumphini Park

After visiting the temple, take the MRT a few stops to Lumphini Park. This is the biggest park in the city and offers a welcome respite from the chaos of the city. The park has many paths and walkways that are great for some peace and quiet after a busy day Chinatown. The small lake in the center offers visitors the option to rent paddle boats for a small fee.

You can also buy fish food to feed the fish who inhabit the lake. Make sure to keep an eye out for the giant monitor lizards that roam freely – they don’t attack, but it is wise to keep your distance.

If you are staying in Bangkok for a few more days and are in the mood for an exercise class, you can join Thais of all ages and dance along to music in one of the popular aerobics classes in the evenings.

• Hours:  4:30 am – 9:00 pm
• Cost:  Free! Boat rides are 40 baht (with a 40 baht deposit that you get back once you return within the time frame of 30 minutes). For 20 baht more you can get a bag of bread to feed the fish.
• Accessible via  BTS Sala Daeng, MRT Lumphini or MRT Silom, or taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi app

Thai Cooking Class

After wandering the lovely Lumphini Park, it is time to eat! Walk over or take the BTS to the Silom Thai Cooking School for their afternoon class.

Haven’t you always wanted learn how to make your own Pad Thai? We’ve taken a few cooking classes in Thailand and when back home in Canada, it helps us relive our Thailand memories.

Thai food is some of the best in the world, and this cooking school offers classes on how to cook all of the most popular dishes. 

Popular Thai Dishes

• Pad Thai – Stir friend noodles with peanut sauce
• Pad Kra Prao
• Pad Woon Sen – stir-fried glass noodles
• kway toew – noodle soup
• Pla Kapung Neung Manao – Steam Lime Fish
• Tom Yum Goong – Spicy Shrimp Soup
• Som Tam – Spicy Green Papaya Salad
• Panang Curry
• Green Curry
• Kai Med Ma Muang – Chicken with Cashew Nuts

Silom Thai Cooking School offers classes every day of the week. What I liked most about them was that they include a market tour in order for guests to see the actual ingredients used in the dishes.

At the end of the class, you get a cookbook with all of the recipes and many more to take home with you!  I took the cooking class here THREE times while I was living in Bangkok – it was that good!

• Hours:  Morning class 9:00 am – 12:20 pm (includes market tour), Afternoon class 1:40 pm – 5:00 pm (includes market tour), Evening class 6:00 pm.- 9:00 pm
• Cost:  1000 baht per person; night class offered for 900 baht
• Accessible via  BTS Chong Nonsi or taxi/tuk tuk

If you want to book a Thai Cooking class in advance you can check out a list of classes around the city  here . Read this full Thailand food guide: 9 Massively Tasty Thai Dishes

Visit a Rooftop Bar

After your cooking class, you have a choice to end the day at many of the nearby rooftop bar. Bangkok has many to choose from and you can usually find thatm at the top of a luxury hotel. There is nothing better than watching the sun set over Bangkok. Here are a couple of my favourite places for rooftop bars in Bangkok.

The Sky Bar, at the top of the Lebua Hotel, is one of the most popular rooftop bars in Bangkok. Part of its fame comes from the scenes filmed there in the movie The Hangover 2. Fans of the movie will immediately recognize the large golden dome. The view at this bar, which claims to be one of the highest in the world, is spectacular, particularly at sunset.

• Hours:  4:00 pm – 1:00 am
• Cost:  Drinks cost between 300 and 850 baht, with most cocktails costing 650/690 baht.
• Accessible via  BTS Saphan Taksin or taxi/tuk tuk/Grab Taxi

Banyan Hotel

If you prefer walking (which you might after the meal from the cooking school), head to the Banyan Hotel for an equally magnificent view of Bangkok.

At the top of this hotel, the Moon Bar offers equally stunning views of the city. It was voted one of the top rooftop bars in the world, and makes a great place to watch the sunset and the lights of Bangkok to come on.

• Hours:  5:00 pm – 1:00 am
• Cost:  Drinks cost between 300 – 900 baht.
• Accessible via  MRT Lumphini, or taxi/tuktuk/Grab Taxi app

Bonus Day 4 – Day Trip Floating Markets

If you are planning on 4 days in Bangkok, I’ve added a bonus trip that should not be missed. Plus, if you continue reading, there are more Thailand travel tips below to extend your Bangkok itinerary with tours and recommendations.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Bangkok is famous for its floating markets, but they are farther out of the city. If you have your heart set on a Bangkok itinerary that includes one, the Damnoen Saduak floating market located 90 minutes outside of the city. You can book a half day tour to full day  tours with Get Your Guide , t hey have plenty to choose from.

Amphawa Floating Market

This is my favourite of the two as it is less touristy and more authentic.

To get to Amphawa take a van from the southern bus terminal in Bangkok. It will drop you near the entrance. Be sure to enjoy some fresh seafood while strolling the many stalls. I also encourage you to take a boat tour to see more of the surrounding area.

If you want to avoid the hassle of taking a bus or haggling over prices, consider booking one of these reputable tours:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market 6 Hour tour
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Train Market Tour
• Bangkok’s Must-See Weekend Floating Markets Private Day Trip
• Damnoen Saduak Tour and Authentic Thai Cookery Class

Resources to Help ou Plan your trip to Bangkok

Suggested Bangkok Tours

A great way to get acquainted with any city when you first arrive it so take a city tour. It is also a good way to see many sites in a short amount of time.

We use  Get Your Guide  for our city tours around the world and like them because they are easy to book, cancel within 24 hours for a full refund, and you can often book last minute.

Some suggested Bangkok Tours we recommend are

Bangkok Flexi Walking Temple Tour  – See the top Bangkok temples in one tour including the Grand Palace once home to the Kings of Siam and home to the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, home to the reclining Buddha, and Temple of the Dawn aka Wat Arun. Check  out this page  for more details.

Private Airport Transfer – Even though it is easy to get from the Airport to downtown Bangkok, we often love being picked up at the airport by a private transfer after a long flight. A driver will be waiting for you at arrivals with your name and will take you directly to your hotel. Find out all the details   here. 

Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour   – You must take a tuk tuk at least once when you travel to Thailand. And a night tour is a good option to see the night markets, try the street food and feel safe exploring Bangkok at night. especially if you are a first time visitor to Bangkok. with the comfort and safety of a guided tour and check out the Bangkok skyline, Wat Pho and the Flower Market at night

Getting Around Bangkok

To get to Bangkok from the Airport, you can take the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi Airport, via Makkasan Station, to Phaya Thai station in central Bangkok.

If you take a taxi, be sure to hire from the offical taxi stand and don’t be talked into anyone approaching you at the exit.

Visitors have a range of options to choose from for getting around Bangkok.

BTS Sky Train 

The BTS sky train  has frequent stops with access to many of the most popular tourist destinations. It is relatively cheap, and train cards can be topped up in stations very easily. The BTS train has two lines, the Sukhumvit line and the Silom line. Pay close attention to the direction and line you are getting on when changing at connecting stations. 

If you plan your route well and take public transportation, either the BTS or MRT where needed, you can see a lot of what Bangkok has to offer in a short amount of time.

The MRT  is the underground system in Bangkok. It uses a different card from the BTS, but it is possible to purchase single rides without one.

For a more traditional feel, try  a  tuktuk . These three wheel taxis are a fun way to take in the sights and sounds as you cruise to your destination. You’ll find tuk-tuks all around Thailand.

Taxis are another option for getting around. In Bangkok, you can take a car or a motorcycle taxi. The latter is much cheaper, but not for the faint of heart, as weaving through Bangkok traffic can be hair-raising. 

Tips for Hiring Tuk Tuks and Taxis

Always make sure to agree to a price BEFORE getting in a taxi or  tuktuk . Negotiating is encouraged, as drivers will often inflate the price for visitors. Have a set price in mind and don’t fall for the ‘tourist price.’ I was often shocked by what tourists would pay for a taxi.

Sometimes taxi drivers will refuse to take passengers; they may hear your destination and decide they don’t want to drive there. It is not personal, although it can get frustrating. Other drivers may refuse to turn on the meter. Keep trying until you get a taxi for a price that works for you.

Thailand also has a ride sharing app, much like Uber or Lyft, called  Grab taxi . Just download the app and call a ride on demand, with a price displayed. You an call a car or even a motorcycle taxi using the app (the later usually being much cheaper and good for single riders).

Suggested Bangkok Hotels

If you are looking for places to stay in Bangkok, be sure to check out the guide below. Stella wrote an in-depth guide about  where to stay in Bangkok.

• Banglamphu  – Home to the Grand Palace and Khao San Road.
• Bangrak  – For those on the hunt for amazing food.
• Chinatown  – One of the oldest areas of Bangkok.
• Sukhumvit  – A modern and cosmopolitan area in central Bangkok.
• Siam  – For those looking to shop ’til they drop.

Suggested Hotel Near Banglamphu (Khao San Road)

Riva Surya Bangkok – One of the higher-end hotels in this backpacker dominated area. Features elegant rooms, a pool, and a view of the river. Check out Availability & Prices – Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Okura Prestige – This Japanese brand hotel is near the Ploen Chit BTS stop. The 35th-floor infinity pool has stunning views. Check out Availability & Prices – Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Chao Phraya River

We also once stayed at the Sheraton Centre Royal Orchard on the Chao Phraya River and loved the location. It had free shuttles to the MTS Skytrain and we could easily explore all the Bangkok things to do in the River. Getting to downtown Bangkok from Khao San Road, Sukhumvit or the Chao Pryaya River is easy by using public transportation. Once you get into Bangkok it is cheap and easy to get around the city via taxi, tuk tuk, Skytrain or subway.

When to visit Bangkok

There is really no bad time to visit Bangkok. It is hot all year round and being a major city, there is something to do any time of the year.

• There are three main ‘seasons’ in Bangkok. The hottest season, which runs from March to June, with April typically being the hottest month.
• If you are looking to cool off,  visit during ‘Songkran Festival celebrated all around Thailand to ring in the Thai New year. The holiday is celebrated with a three-day-long water fight – the perfect way to beat the heat! This usually takes place in April.
• The rainy season runs from July through October. Expect rain on most days. Thunderstorms can appear suddenly and unleash huge amounts of water that leave the streets completely flooded.
• The most comfortable season in the city is between November and February. The city is still very hot, but there are some days when the temperature dips into the 70s.

You now know what to do in Bangkok for 3 days, but that shouldn’t stop you from returning.

To really take in the culture and vibe of the city, you will need far more than 3 days in Bangkok, but to see its highlights and its most famous sites, you can do it. We’ve returned to Bangkok again and again and always found something new. Bangkok tourism is growing each year and the city is becoming more modern with each skyscraper built.

And that is the end of your Bangkok Itinerary proving that the main attractions and sites of Bangkok can be seen in 3 short days. You did it!

For more Bangkok things to do, check out  Stella’s city guide  with a list of everything oyu can see and do in the city.

• Lonely Planet Bangkok
• Hidden Secrets of Bangkok

Check out more guides to help you plan your time in Bangkok

• Where to Stay in Bangkok
• Things to do in Bangkok

Did you enjoy this Bangkok Itinerary? Why not Pin it on Pinterest to plan your future vacation to Thailand and Southeast Asia?

You May also want to check out these Thailand Travel guides

• Thailand Travel Tips
• Top Chiang Mai Attractions
• Amazing Things to Do in Thailand
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Sea Kayaking in Thailand and Island Camping with John Gray’s Sea Canoe
• Rock Climbing in Railay, The Thailand Adventure Continues
• Best Things to do in Koh Samui
• Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand
• Best Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Enjoy These Thailand Cultural Experiences

• Everything You Need to Know About a Muay Thai Holiday in Thailand
• Muay Thai Kickboxing – Rawai Muay Thai in Thailand
• Thailand’s Songkran Festival, The Worlds Largest Waterfight
• Exploring Thailand by Train
• Tea Terraces in Thailand – Journey Through Doi Mae Salong
• The Importance of Responsible Tourism in Thailand

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Stella Saintis

Stella is the author of Stella's Out . As a traveling teacher, she lived in South East Asia for 2 years including Thailand. She now lives in Honduras here she documents her adventures on a budget. Follow her to prove that you can still have a lot of fun and travel without a lot of money Follow Stella at StellasOut.com / Facebook / Instagram /

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10 thoughts on “Ultimate 3 Days in Bangkok – A Local’s guide to The Perfect Bangkok Itinerary”

Excellent information. Very helpful for my coming up trip. Is there hop on hop off buses? Which hotels are close to hop on hop off stops

Really interesting post, I’ve never heard about the neon market.

I like that you have catered to all types of travelers. There are temples, shopping, art, gardens, and even cooking lessons. Just my type of holiday

Atlast I found a really helpful Bangkok travel guide. Being a backpacker and budget traveller I like the tourist spots which have no entry fee. This blog clearly mentioned those free places and provides an in depth guide to reach there and what to explore there. Thanks a lot for sharing such information.

Wow. Very comprehensive post and a lot to choose from.

For us, Bangkok is really one of those places that is, at first hard to love.

We found it overwhelming at first, so very big. I remember finding the sex industry there too in your face.

Warmed to it the next time, mostly because we stayed in a residential area and got to know the communities in the laneways.

By the last time, it really grew on us. Slowing right down, just walking tiny local areas. Getting lost. Just sitting beside the canal…

We would add – see a traditional puppet show. We loved the free one at The Artists House in the Klongs so much, we saw it twice. Spend time with locals and bask in the glow of the smiles of new local friends. Magic ?

Lumphini Park is amazing. Wish Bangkok had more parks like this.

Awesome itinerary! I might try doing these on my next Bangkok trip!

Thanks for your sharing. Really Bangkok such a wonderful place and the golden Buddha temple is one of my best place in Bangkok.

I’m glad to know that you’re a side hustle millionaire from travel blogging and you love doing what you do.keep up the good work my friend. 🙂

Loved visiting Bangkok, wish we stayed longer as there is so much to do and see!

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19 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

By Diana Hubbell and Katie Lockhart

One of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, Bangkok is an ever-changing, always-bustling cosmopolitan capital with much more on offer than incredible street food (although there’s plenty of that). Chaos covered in a hazy combination of charcoal grills, incense, and motorbike exhaust, it’s home to culture and history alongside luxury hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, cozy cocktail bars and a surplus of good times. Overwhelmed? That’s normal. After a day of temple hopping, hit up Chinatown for old-world architecture and some of the city’s best bars. Or go green with a stroll through the city’s coolest parks, followed by a multi-course meal aboard an antique barge or tucked inside a century-old shophouse. Here are our picks for what to do in Bangkok.

Read our complete Bangkok city guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Jim Thompson House Arrow

The home of American Jim Thompson, who made a fortune in the mid-20th century selling Thai silks, has been transformed into a museum displaying the businessman's collection of antiques, artwork, and religious artifacts. The canal-side property is made up of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, surrounded by a verdant garden. Known for more than just its art collection, the property was also a legendary spot for high-society parties.

Lumphini Park Arrow

Bangkok is the ultimate concrete jungle, and most of its green spaces have long been gobbled up by developers adding condominium towers to the skyline. But smack dab in the center of the city is leafy Lumphini Park; often called the "Central Park of Bangkok" and named after the Nepali birthplace of Buddha, this an urban respite for many Bangkokians. The geographical heart of the park is an artificial lake where you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats.

The Grand Palace Arrow

The land for the Grand Palace was designated in 1782—the same year the capital of Thailand moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok—and today it's home to various royal throne and ceremonial halls, as well as the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although the Thai royal family moved out by 1925, this sprawling complex remains an important structure for Thais, one that's also a central stop on the well-trodden tourist route.

Chinatown Arrow

Market lanes, glittery gold shops, phenomenal street food, temples with golden Buddhas, Daoist temples clouded with incense smoke, street art, history, and a neighborhood setting that feels untouched by time and modernization: Welcome to Bangkok’s enchanting Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. You don’t need tickets or reservations, just an appetite for Thai-Chinese street food and a penchant for getting a little lost in the name of exploration.

Jessica Puckett

CNT Editors

Jesse Ashlock

Wat Pho Arrow

The main draw at Wat Pho is the country’s largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture occupying nearly every inch of the building and leaving guests to observe its gold-plated form from all angles. Beyond the Buddha, an expansive compound has the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. The complex was Thailand’s first center for public education; people came to study its 1,360 marble inscriptions to learn about medicine, history, and liberal arts.

The Siam Arrow

Compared with many of its rivals, this Bangkok stalwart doesn’t have a location that’s wildly convenient: the postcard sights need a boat transfer, and most top tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But for me, and the legions of other loyal fans of this monochrome masterpiece by hotel guru Bill Bensley, that’s the point. Pitched up on a lush riverside plot in the hushed Dusit district, The Siam feels like a portal to a bygone Bangkok. Even though it opened a decade ago, it’s easy to imagine it as a plush playground for the city’s erstwhile big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms—vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks and chipped ceramics—adorn the marble-floored hallways. I’d be hard-pressed to point friends to a lovelier lunch spot than the hotel’s Thai restaurant, set between the timeworn pillars of three ancient teakwood houses, where butlers in dressy black sarongs deliver the kind of classic Thai hospitality—lilting “sawadee ka” greetings and tables set with fresh orchids—that’s becoming harder to find. None of which is to say that the hotel is stuffy—there’s a tattoo parlor in the spa. An ongoing refurb is keeping suites and private-pooled villas looking fresh. And with the opening of a Jim Thompson homeware boutique in the wooden house the illustrious silk magnate helped procure for its former owners, things have come full circle. The Thai capital’s five-star hotel scene gets plusher every year, but this timeless beauty remains in a league of its own. From $618. —Chris Schalkx

Chatuchak Weekend Market Arrow

Known as JJ Market to most locals (the official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound), this is the granddaddy of all markets: With 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world. Everything is buyable, from practical stuff like home décor, art, clothing, accessories, and cooking equipment, to trinkets and oddities like knock-off Nikes and Beats by Dre, iPhone covers, and—yes—even live animals. Despite its sheer size, though, the market is very well organized, with goods arranged by type and a large map posted near the entrance.

Wat Arun Arrow

Of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats , throughout Thailand, Wat Arun is one of the most iconic. The 269-foot tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, juts out from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and the temple complex is illuminated in a golden glow at night. This is one of the few temples in Thailand that you can climb; once you've ascended the steep and narrow stairs, you're in for a great view of the river and surrounding temple complex.

Smiling Albino Arrow

The peeps behind Smiling Albino have been at it since 1999, so you can rest assured they know what they’re doing. Their offerings fall in the custom luxury category: private experiences in Bangkok, cultural visits, and trips to nearby villages. They also organize weeklong trekking journeys in northern Thailand, cycling in Nepal, and motorcycling in Vietnam. Each trip is custom-made to your interests: no coaches and explanations shouted through a microphone, but rather personal guides and drivers.

Manohra Dinner River Cruise Arrow

This six-course dinner served aboard an an antique wooden rice barge is an excellent crash course in both Thai food and Bangkok's must-visit destinations along the river. Book it to get your bearings on what you'd like to explore during daylight—while eating fantastic dishes like a gold leaf-topped curry amuse bouche, a dry-ice play on mango sticky rice, and a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. The warm service rivals any fine-dining establishment on land, and the experience is perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening on the water.

Wat Prayoon (Prayurawongsawat Worawihan) Arrow

Sitting on the quieter Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is a crowd-free, surprise-filled temple compound with plenty of moments for peaceful solitude. Visitors can spend an afternoon here exploring the towering white chedi —it's rare to find one in Bangkok you can actually enter—or watching the turtles and monitor lizards in the Khao Mo garden. It's an excellent spot for families with young kids and temple-lovers looking for something besides a giant gold Buddha (although it's got one of those too).

Blue Elephant Cooking School Arrow

Bringing home a taste of Thai food is high on the list of most travelers, and in the always-hungry capital, there are lessons for newbies and pros alike. Blue Elephant’s half-day lesson is a good middle ground, where experienced cooks won’t be bored and novices won’t feel lost. At the morning lesson, small groups gather at the elegant colonial-style house before making their way to the multiethnic Bangrak market; the afternoon session, meanwhile, dives right into cooking.

The Jam Factory Arrow

Architect Duangrit Bunnag’s fingerprints are all over the revival of Bangkok’s waterfront. Savvy travelers will also notice his handiwork just across the Chao Phraya at Warehouse 30 . Down Charoenkrung Road in the former General Post Office lies the reopened Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), which Bunnag co-founded. The Jam Factory is at the core of his vision to shift the city’s gravitational center back to where it once lay: on the so-called River of Kings. He built this stunning complex anchored around an ancient Bodhi tree to house his firm’s main office, along with a hip restaurant, a gallery, and more.

100 Tonson Foundation Arrow

Over the past decade, Bangkok’s art scene has mushroomed from a few scattered galleries into a vibrant, thriving community. Much of that transformation has to do with Aey Phanachet’s groundbreaking contemporary art space in Ploenchit. In 2020, Tonson Gallery became a non-profit and changed its name to 100 Tonson Foundation.This was the first Thai gallery to participate in Art Basel, the Switzerland art fair, and it’s been a champion of Southeast Asian artists ever since. Despite its high-powered reputation, the gallery is open to casual art-lovers as well as collectors.

Wat Pariwat Arrow

Bangkok’s temples are truly a wonder to behold, but after a few days of battling the crowds, the appeal of gilded Buddha statues may start to wear thin. When you’ve conquered the major attractions, hop in a taxi to this Wat Pariwat, a one-of-a-kind temple down the Chao Phraya River. Sometimes nicknamed the David Beckham Temple for its statue of the famed soccer star below the main altar, Wat Pariwat is both an active place of worship and a hodgepodge of pop culture references.

Nusara Arrow

Follow the outdoor neon sign that says "Only Kids Drink Milk" to this fine-dining speakeasy that ranks 10th on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. Head to the back of Mayrai Pad Thai and Wine Bar, go up the spiral stairs and past the open kitchen, and find a small dining area set for 12. One of Bangkok's most exclusive reservations, the restaurant serves a 12-course set menu of Thai chili–laden dishes that are an ode to Chef Ton Tassanakajohn's grandmother, Nusara. Highlights include peanut relish with seasonal vegetables and shrimp paste water perfected over the course of 80 years.

Pak Khlong Talat Arrow

Bangkok’s bustling 24-hour flower market is a feast for the eyes and the nostrils—and one of the best places for jet-lagged travelers awake at odd hours to do some sightseeing. The highlight of the market is visiting the vendors along Chakkaraphet Road and watching locals prepare sacred temple offerings at lightning speed. They’re folding back the delicate petals of lotus blossoms, stringing fragrant jasmine into garlands known as malais, sorting through bags teeming with marigolds, and creating elaborate arrangements for funerals and weddings. Under the market’s tin roof, merchants sell bundles of orchids, button carnations, roses, green bananas still on the stem, towering stacks of prickly pineapples, and pre-made temple offerings. Across Chakkaraphet Road, don’t miss the elaborate ready-made bouquets and stacks of colorful orchids for 20 baht (60 cents) each.

Warehouse 30 Arrow

The creation of Warehouse 30 is the latest creative project in a string of artistic spaces in rehabbed historical buildings along Charenkrung Road. Under the artistic and watchful eye of Duangrit Bunnag, a founder of the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) and Thailand’s best-known architect, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses have become a bastion for local designers and artists. Ever-changing exhibition spaces, independent boutiques, a coffee shop, and more are all part of the new development. And while the shops and the vibe are new, the exposed beams and wood flooring are original.

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The Perfect Bangkok Itinerary Updated With Newer Attractions (2024 Travel Guide)

December 25, 2023 by Bino 15 Comments

As one of Asia’s best value and most popular destinations, Bangkok offers a plethora of things to see and do and there are various permutations that you can do for your Bangkok itinerary. Filled with many spectacular Buddhist temples and ornate buildings, the city is at once exotic and at the same time modern with all the creature comforts that one can imagine. Bangkok is also known as a shopping haven, with mass consumerism juxtaposing against a strong market culture. 

I have been to Bangkok quite a few times and always enjoy coming here for the unbeatable value, delicious Thai food and fascinating things to see in the city’s streets. Whether you’re a first-timer, a regular or even a shopaholic, here is my suggestion for your trip with a Bangkok itinerary that you can easily break down into 2-days, 3-days or 4-days depending on the length of time you are there. I’ve made the duration flexible to make the itinerary easy to execute during weekends or during longer visits. For some other ideas, you can also check out this Bangkok travel guide .

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Old Bangkok

Learn about thailand’s royal traditions at the grand palace.

If it is your first time visiting Bangkok, venturing out to the dazzling Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha is recommended to be part of your Bangkok itinerary. First built in the late 1700s, the palace grounds cover an area of over 218,000 square meters. While the royal family no longer resides here (they reside at Dusit Palace), the Grand Palace still hosts some official and state functions. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew, considered to be the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, is also situated here. 

Tip: If you are visiting the Grand Palace, do note that a dress code applies. Men are required to wear trousers and sleeved shirts while women are expected to cover their upper arms and legs up to the thigh area. As a last resort, visitors who show up with improper clothing can rent clothes from shops nearby. 

Be Awed by the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho

Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha , this well known religious building sits just next to the Grand Palace and can be easily combined with the former. The image of the gold-plated reclining Buddha is perhaps one of the most iconic tourist shots in Bangkok and at any given time of day, visitors will find the narrow hallway housing the statue to be extremely claustrophobic.

Tip: If you are looking for a fuss-free experience visiting Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, you can book this join-in or private tour that includes all these attractions and even comes with a cruise down the Chao Phraya river. 

wat arun during sunset

Immediately to the west of Wat Pho just opposite Tha Tien pier, is another one of Bangkok’s most well-known landmarks. Wat Arun , also known as the Temple of Dawn , consists of a large central tower and flanked by four smaller ones on each side.  The grey-ish appearance of the temple makes it seem like it’s constructed from the same material as the likes of the Ayuthaya temples but it’s actually a lot more ornate than that when inspected closely. The material is actually Chinese porcelain. Visitors are able to enter for a fee whenever the temple is not under renovation. It is well worth the short trip across the river to see this temple up close. I would also recommend checking this temple out during sunset when it is floodlit.

Tip: While it may look fun to ride on a tuktuk especially for first-timers to Bangkok, do note that the price can easily exceed that of a taxi. For a truly cheap ride around town, try the moto taxis which you can also book on Grab. You’ll also get to beat the traffic jams this way.

rong kueak shrine in bangkok

One of my favorite neighborhoods in Bangkok is quirky Talat Noi, an area that has historically been home to the city’s ethnic Chinese community. Though still considered part of Bangkok’s Chinatown, Talat Noi is a lot quieter and more laidback. Its maze-like alleys, which are filled with street art, temples, galleries and hipster cafes, are generally free from huge crowds. 

street art in talat noi, bangkok

While here, make sure to check out the street art found in Trok San Chao Rong Kueak. Unwind for coffee at Mother Roaster , a warehouse for auto parts with a nice cafe on the second floor. The area also has a number of old Chinese mansions that have been converted into restaurants. These include Hong Sieng Kong and So Heng Tai Mansion . The riverside Rong Kueak Shrine offers a glimpse into the religious traditions of Bangkok’s Chinese community. 

soi charoenkrung 22

For a glimpse of local life, you can also check out Soi Charoenkrung 22 , where generations of Thai-Chinese have been selling steamed buns, fruits and noodles. This alley reminded me quite a bit of those found in Malaysia. 

Charoenkrung Road

the very first central department store along charoenkrung road

After Talat Noi, you can spend the rest of the afternoon checking out the fast-gentrifying Charoenkrung Road which is home to charming cafes and photogenic colonial buildings. In this area, you can find museums/galleries such as the Bangkokian Museum (open daily Wed to Sun, 10AM to 4PM) and discover how city folk lived in the olden days. For a spot of modern art, there’s also the Thailand Creative & Design Center or TCDC (open Tues to Sun, 10:30AM to 9PM) which used to be Bangkok’s main post office. The well-known night market, Asiatique , is also located in this part of the city.

inside central: the original store in bangkok

For a retro experience, head to Central: The Original Store , a lifestyle hub housed in the very first Central department store from the 1950s. Here, you can find an artsy display of vintage publications tracing the retailer’s history as well as some fun and quirky merchandise. I dropped by in December and found them selling unique gift ideas. 

Ong Ang Canal

ong ang canal

If you happen to be in Bangkok on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday – check out the newly rehabilitated Ong Ang Canal which is roughly in between Wat Pho and Chinatown. The walkways around the canals were recently repaved and decorated with street art. During weekends, you will find street performers, artists as well as independent shopkeepers selling their wares. You can even go kayaking here and paddle through the canal. 

Ong Ang Canal is best explored in the late afternoon or early evening when it’s not so hot and more pop-up stores are open.

Ong Ang Canal can be easily reached through Sam Yot MRT Station.

A Feast for the Senses at Yaowarat Road

yaowarat road

Yaowarat Road, which is synonymous with Bangkok’s Chinatown, has seen quite a bit of transformation as of late. I have been visiting since pre-2020 when it was a hotbed for touristy restaurants serving bird’s nest or shark’s fin. Gradual reliance on locals when the borders were closed for 2 years meant that many of those establishments are no longer around. Instead, street vendors offering anything from fried crickets to noodle soup have increased the street side congestion even further. The street has also become a lot more accessible via public transport, with the nearby Wat Mangkon MRT station opening in 2019.  A typical walking route that takes one thru the gist of Bangkok’s Chinatown is to start from Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan up until Grand China Bangkok Hotel. The area is best visited from sunset onwards. That’s when the street truly becomes alive with neon signs and street side food stalls.

Tom Yum Noodles for Supper at Jeh O Chula

jeh o chula

Jeh O Chula is a popular dinner and supper spot (they open til midnight) and they are well-known for sumptuous dishes such as Tom Yum Noodles, Fried Pork Belly and Spicy Salmon Sashimi Salad. End your day here after a long day out. There is always a long and snaking queue but you can avoid the wait and get a guaranteed slot with a set meal by booking in advance here .

Day 2 – Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-In Excursion 

Explore the ancient ruins of ayutthaya.

Set out early in the morning for a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya which is only an hour away from Bangkok. You won’t be able to visit all the temples within half a day but you can expect to reasonably cover the major ones like Wat Chaiwatthanaram , Wat Yai Chaimongkon and Wat Phra Mahathat. You can choose this Ayutthaya day tour that can take you there by an air-conditioned vehicle and even includes the picturesque Bang Pa-In Summer Palace.

Tip: The temples of Ayuthaya can easily be done by bike. Best time to visit the temples of Ayuthaya if you plan to cycle is in the morning so that it’s not too hot. If you are not getting around the temples by airconditioned vehicle, you may consider heading to Ayuthaya the previous evening and stay overnight to allow you to cycle early the next morning.

Bang Pa-In Palace

bang pa in palace by juan antonio segal | cc 2.0

Go for an excursion to the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace just north of Bangkok where you can find a combination of Thai, Chinese and European architectural influences. A visit here is usually combined with the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya. 

Cruise Along the Chao Phraya

bangkok at night

Go on an evening cruise along the Chao Phraya river and see monuments such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun lit up in the night sky while enjoying a meal.

With Bangkok’s notorious traffic jams, it is sometimes more practical to just take the water taxi and cruise down the Chao Phraya. If you are heading to the impressive Iconsiam at the other side of the city, it may be more practical to go by boat. The shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia and the highlight here is a section devoted entirely to regional Thai cuisine. You can find many street eats here from as far as Isaan and Chiang Mai, all in one roof!

Rooftop Bar-Hopping

sirocco bar at lebua state tower

Check out one of the city’s many rooftop bars for excellent views of the skyline. Lebua Tower (Sirocco), Banyan Tree (Vertigo) and Tichuca Rooftop Bar are just some that you can consider. You can’t go wrong with any of these, or better yet go bar-hopping across multiple nights! Expect to pay western prices though for drinks in exchange for the spectacular view

Day 3 – New Attractions & Less Common Attractions to Include in Your Bangkok Itinerary

Experience the green side of bangkok.

lumphini park

Take it easy in the morning by exploring Bangkok’s green lungs. You may be a Bangkok regular by now, having done all the temples and the shopping, but chances are you have not been to Lumphini Park . Come to this lush oasis early in the morning when you can witness locals doing taichi and cycle your way around the park without the infamous Bangkok heat setting in.

chong nonsi canal park

A newer attraction that opened in Bangkok is the Chong Nonsi Canal Park . A stretch of the canal running through Bangkok’s central business district was rehabilitated in December 2021 and turned into a public space featuring walkways, seats as well as architectural landscaping. It is still a work in progress although the first phase just south of Chong Nongsi BTS Station is already open. This park is best visited during the evening when it is lit up.

rama ix park

Further afield, Rama IX Park is more off-the-beaten path than Lumphini Park and a lot bigger. This park is several kilometers from Central Bangkok. Expect to pay about 200 Baht for a ride here. Make sure to check out the Royal Pavilion which sits in a postcard perfect lotus pond.

Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre

bangkok art and culture centre

If you happen to be around the Siam Square area, you can walk to the nearby Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre which usually has an exhibition going on at any period of time. Even if not, its curved spiral walkways are also worth a look from the top floor. Admission is free. 

Visit Unusual Museums

Bangkok has some pretty weird museums and you can spend this day on an offbeat museum-hopping tour. From the corpses of mass murderers in the Forensics Museum to the gruesome Human Body Museum , you will slowly see Bangkok’s freaky side. For something quirky, you can also check out the Phallic Shrine , home to hundreds of penises standing (and leaning) side by side. Women come here to seek blessings when they want to conceive a child.

Walk Through Transparent Glass 314 Meters Above Ground

kingpower mahanakhon skywalk

If gruesome museums aren’t your thing, check out one of the city’s newest attractions – the Kingpower Mahanakhon Skywalk in Sathorn. This is the highest observation deck in Bangkok. In certain areas, you get to walk on a totally transparent glass floor, giving you the impression that you are walking on air. You can book tickets here to get them at a discount here  to enjoy a dedicated online queue which is shorter than the walk-in one. 

Talad Rot Fai

Check out what is perhaps Bangkok’s quirkiest market, Talad Rot Fai which is located in Srinakarin Road. You’ll find all sorts of oddities here, from antiques to vintage items dating back from the 1970’s. The restaurants around here are just as odd – you’ll find restaurants using old cinema chairs as dinner chairs and bars on reconstructed Volkswagen Beetles. 

Day 4 – Shopping Day

Hunt for bargains in pratunam .

Wake up early to access the cheapest goods you can find anywhere in Bangkok in the Pratunam Morning Market . The cheapest goods are typically available between 5am to 8am and most stores are closed by noon. Be warned – bulk of the goods consist of ladies’ clothing. If sorting through wholesale markets is not your thing, you can also check out Platinum Mall which sells basically the same clothes as the Pratunam morning market but at a higher price and in airconditioned comfort.

Get Lost in the Maze That Is Chatuchak

chatuchak by robert brands | cc 2.0

Brace yourself for this mini-village of a market. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is not just Thailand’s largest market, it is also a popular tourist attraction. Here you’ll find a lot of interesting products by budding designers and hipsters alongside more conventional items such as household products, pets and even food to bring home. A day is not enough to cover the entirety of the place, but hey you only have a weekend!

Mall-Hopping in Siam & Sukhumvit

terminal 21 in bangkok

If you still have not had enough of the weekend markets and wholesale clothes market, here are some notable shopping malls to check out in Bangkok. Many of them are situated around the Rama I and Sukhumvit stretch.

• Siam Paragon – high end mall close to the BTS station, with all the luxury brands that you can think of
• Siam Center – recently renovated upscale hipster mall catering to a young crowd
• Centralworld Plaza – One of the largest malls in the world, Centralworld is another upmarket mall – though not as upmarket as Siam Paragon. You can find Zen department store here.
• Gaysorn Village – another high-end shopping malls with a similar tenant mix to Siam Paragon plus some other brands
• MBK Shopping Center – hands down the most popular mall for tourists. MBK is the place to be, especially for those seeking bargains without sacrificing comfort
• Siam Square – a street-level shopping center offering a handy mix of retail, f&b, entertainment and even tutor schools. Popular with local students
• Terminal 21 – Located in Sukhumvit Road with easy access to Asoke station, shoppers can almost explore the world in this mall which each floor having different international themes
• Some of Bangkok’s malls have really interesting interiors and are worthy attractions even if you’re not planning to buy anything. Design-wise, the ones I recommend are Central Embassy and EmQuartier
• Emsphere is Bangkok’s newest mall, having opened only in December 2023. It is located near Phrom Phong Station and features a trendy array of shops. The pink escalators are quite insta-worthy.

Watch a Muay Thai Match

muay thai boxing by dylan waters

In the evening, you can watch one of Thailand’s quintessential sports – Muay Thai (Thai boxing).

Day 5 – Family-friendly Attractions

  safari world.

safari world bangkok (source: safari world)

Safari World is somewhat of a social media darling, especially with images of cute and friendly giraffes extending their necks all the way to the viewing deck for visitors to pet them. There’s plenty to keep everyone preoccupied, including dolphin, bird and seal shows. Visitors can even simulate an African-style safari with a 7km stretch of open space teeming with wildlife that can be explored by private car or van.  

To get to Safari World, you can hire a Grab but do note that the park is 30km away from the city center. You can either buy standalone tickets or a bundle consisting of tickets + shared transfer . If you choose the latter, the trip departs from Siam Paragon at 7:45AM and arrives back in Siam Paragon at around 6PM. If you decide to DIY and head there on your own, it is recommended to get there by the time they open so that you can see as much of the park as possible. 

SEA Life Bangkok

If you went for the shared transfer for Safari World, you’ll be back in Siam Paragon by 6PM. That will leave you some time to check out SEA Life Bangkok before calling it a day. 

sea life (source: sea life)

Learn about sharks, penguins, whales and other marine creatures at Sea Life Bangkok with plenty of themed zones to explore. Start with the Shark Walk – a glass window with views of the majestic creatures swimming just inches away. The more daring visitors can opt for a VIP experience where they can snorkel with sharks. The Coral Reef zone on the other hand, presents a myriad of colors with various types of corals and exotic fish. Another highlight of Sea Life is the Penguin Ice Playground where visitors can catch these fluffy creatures taking a swim or just waddling in a snowy backdrop. You can purchase tickets here  at a discount. 

You can also check out my suggestions for more family-friendly attractions in Bangkok here .

Extra Savings for Bangkok Tourist Attractions

If you intend to visit a few attractions in Bangkok, you may consider getting the Bangkok Pass for extra savings. You can choose from among 21 activities and attractions such as the Mahanakhon Skywalk, Safari World Bangkok and Chao Phraya Princess Cruise as a bundle of 2, 3 or 4 attractions that you can use within 30 days. For instance, if you do choose the 3 activities just mentioned, it will cost THB 3,030. A 3-attractions pass will cost just THB 1,160. You can purchase the Bangkok Pass here .

Helpful Tips for Bangkok

• Travel Insurance: You can compare for the best travel insurance that suits you and get exclusive discounts and even freebies when you book. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion running until 29th Feb that comes with FREE Apple AirTag (worth S$45) that may even be worth more than the cost of the insurance itself. 
• Airport Transport: Taxi scams used to be prevalent in Suvarnabhumi Airport. While they have mostly dissipated in recent years, it still pays to be careful in dealing with random offers for transport. Whether you arrive in Dong Muang or Suvarnabhumi, you will find official taxi stands where taxis go by the meter. Unfortunately, queues tend to be very long and sometimes, it’s also difficult to get a car from a ride-sharing app like Grab. A cheap and fast way to get to the city from Suvarnabhumi Airport is the Airport Rail Link which takes you to Siam Center where there are train connections to other parts of the city.  Alternatively, you can also book airport transfers in advance in order to skip the taxi queue.
• Which Bangkok Airport is Better: If you are deciding whether to arrive in Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport, it does not really make much of a difference. I have used both during various occasions. I would say that the airport facilities in Don Muang aren’t as extensive as in Suvarnabhumi. The former has fewer airport lounges and duty free shops. In terms of immigration queues, it used to be better in Don Muang but recently it has become just as bad. Taxi queues are very long in both airports. 

Where to Eat in Bangkok

Sri Trat (90 Soi Sukhumvit 33) – A showcase of cuisine from Trat province near the Cambodian border. Specialties include the local version of Sweet and Sour Pork Belly Stew, Massaman Curry with Durian and Stir-fried Noodles with Soft-Shell Crab. 

Plu (Soi Sathon 3) – Located in a colonial house, Plu offers dishes from all over Thailand. You will find many well-known Thai dishes here like Pad Thai and a more coconut-y version of Tom Yum. The Steamed Sea Bass entails a longer serving time but is well worth the wait.  

Rung Rueang (10/3 Soi Sukhumvit 26) – This nondescript eatery off Sukhumvit is famous for its pork noodles. You can order them dry or with soup and with varying levels of spiciness. What sets their pork noodles apart is the high and relatively dense concentration of minced meat which they also sell in frozen form.

supanniga eating room

Supanniga Eating Room (multiple locations) – A popular Bangkok restaurant with three locations – one in Sathorn, one by the river overlooking Wat Arun and one in Thonglor. Cuisine is mostly from Eastern Thailand with specialties such as Pu Jah (crab meat and minced meat in crab shell) and hearty curries.

mango sticky rice from mae varee

You can practically find sticky rice with mango anywhere in Bangkok but there’s a reason why Mae Varee Mango Sticky Rice (1 Thong Lo) is still a hit with residents and tourists alike. It is perhaps the generous and luscious chunks of mangos, the sweet coconut sauce or the well-textured rice. Or perhaps it is all of the above. The shop is located close to Thong Lo BTS Station and is worth checking out if you are in the area. 

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Budget – Lub d Bangkok Siam is located within walking distance from Siam Station and Siam Square. I personally favor this area over the popular backpacker haven of Khao San Road as the train in the Siam area enables you to avoid Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. Another convenient location for stays is the Phaya Thai area which offers convenient connections with Suvarnabhumi Airport. For a budget hotel, Hotel Tranz offers spacious and spotless rooms while being located just next to Phaya Thai Station.

baan tuk din, unique hotel in bangkok (source: baan tuk din)

Midrange – If unique looking hotels are your thing, check out Baan Tuk Din , a boutique hotel near the Democracy Monument. Distressed walls and cool furnishings make this a hotel like no other in Bangkok. The jazz bar by the lobby is also worth a look. In Sathorn area, the T2 Residence Sathorn is a good CBD option as it’s located in a quiet side street. If you prefer to stay near the Siam/Sukhumvit area, a relatively new option to consider is the Sindhorn Midtown Hotel located a short walk from Chit Lom Station. Rooms are modern and well-appointed. This hotel is also popular for its rooftop pool.

the sukhothai bangkok

Luxury – My personal pick is The Sukhothai Bangkok for a peek at fine Thai living. The rooms are decked with Thai handicrafts and antiques while the breakfast buffet here is among the best I’ve had in the city. Highly recommended if you are looking to splurge a bit. Alternatively, you can also check out the new The Standard Mahanakhon located in the same building as the Kingpower Mahanakhon Skywalk. Rooms are stylish with the usage of “cute” furnishings and are highly instagram-worthy.

Rates are always competitive regardless of the season and booking websites are an excellent way to compare prices. You can check out some of the best deals for hotels in Bangkok HERE .

Transport Options in Bangkok

With a myriad of transport options, it is sometimes not very easy to choose the best way to get around Bangkok. Here are some available options:

Tuktuk – It may be worthwhile to try it once or twice just for the heck of it. It is by far the most iconic means of transport in Bangkok but be aware that the starting fare could easily set you back by 100 Baht. This is almost 3x the flag down fare for a cab.

Taxi – A popular and economical means of transport in Bangkok, taxis in Bangkok are generally clean. The flag-down fare is 35 Baht. Some drivers could be choosy and you may find yourself in situations where you’ll have to go through two or three drivers just to get yourself one who’s willing to turn the meter on.

BTS/MRT – Routes are limited but you’re covered for most places within the Sukhumvit area and Chatuchak Night Market. The BTS/MRT is a great way to beat the infamous traffic jams of Bangkok. If you’re heading to the older part of town, this may not be the most ideal option. Save the hassle of buying tickets before each ride and get a BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card for your BTS rides.

Buses – The most inexpensive way of getting around Bangkok but your main challenge is knowing the routes which are mostly written only in Thai.

Grab  – This is personally my preferred means of transport. Fares are competitive and are almost similarly priced to cabs. You won’t have to worry about cab drivers turning you down.

Have you been to Bangkok before? What was your itinerary like when you were in the Thai capital?

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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November 5, 2014 at 12:43 pm

Very informative. Surely this will be really helpful for those travelling to Bangkok, especially for first timers. Kudos!

November 26, 2014 at 5:13 am

Great tips! We are headed back to Bangkok for the second time and were trying to find some things that might not be at the top of most peoples’ lists! The weird museums sound like an interesting way to spend a day

December 4, 2014 at 8:36 pm

Very nice! I visited Bangkok for the first time a few weeks ago and did a few things on your first-timers list, visited the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the Moon Bar on top of Banyan Tree hotel and the Chatuchak Weekend Market! Really enjoyable so good tips!

April 10, 2015 at 5:09 pm

Very helpful! I’m planning a trip to Bangkok a few months from now and this post has been great in plotting out my places to visit. Thank you!!! 🙂

June 16, 2015 at 3:06 pm

Hello, I was searching for Bangkok trip itineraries as I will be traveling to Bangkok in nest month hence came across your article

June 22, 2015 at 5:56 pm

Many thanks for the three different perspectives. Makes it easy for first timers. Intelligently written. – Anupam.

October 24, 2015 at 6:19 pm

Thank you for a very interesting Web site. You have given me plenty ideas to visit on my next trip to BKK.

February 15, 2017 at 6:47 pm

Helpful. How about transpo? How did you get around and how much it cost you?

February 16, 2017 at 10:05 pm

Hi Merjay it is easy to get around by taxi or uber

September 20, 2017 at 11:58 am

Great ideas! We’re heading to Bangkok next week. Been there a handful of times, but these are some great additions to what we’ve already done! Thanks 🙂

February 17, 2018 at 2:11 pm

Do you have any recommendations for Phuket or Karbi? I’m going to Thailand and will be stopping in Bangkok first. I will be in the city for 2 days and then I fly off to Phuket where I’ll spend about 8 days there. I was thinking of taking a ferry to Karbi. Are there things to do in Phuket and Karbi? Do you recommend any other spots?

Do you think this a good amount of time for visiting Thailand for the first time and each location? I’m going alone so I’m wondering if I am making the right move.

Thanks for any feedback you can give.

February 19, 2018 at 11:12 am

I’ve not been to Krabi before! I only did Phuket within a day so I don’t really know it well.

August 8, 2018 at 10:17 pm

This is very informative! Thank you.

May 19, 2019 at 2:21 pm

THANKS FOR info – I AM VISITNG IN MONTH OF JULY.. PLANNIG TO VISIT BANGKOK AND PHUKET AND KARABI IFF POSSIBLE

BANFKO DETIAL U HAVE GIVEN HELPED ME A LOT, ITS IN MY LIST NOW. HOPE FOR GOOD TOUR..

MANY THANKS BRO.

July 5, 2019 at 7:48 pm

I have been to Bangkok a few times and always stay in the Koh San area. I don’t really know why, I have seen most already and need to explore a new area of the city, but until now I never did. Maybe next time I visit Bangkok.

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Bangkok Tourism Guide

The insider's guide and essential travel planner.

A s a gateway to Thailand’s many beautiful islands and beaches, Bangkok has become one of the world’s most visited cities . The Thai capital is a vibrant and frenetic place , offering non-stop action and constantly dazzling visitors with a variety of sights, sounds, and scents. It can be overwhelming, as it assaults the senses with majestic temples, flavorful cuisine and pungent street food, an exhilarating nightlife, and reinvigorating massages. It’s an exuberant and exotic destination with much to explore, from busy roads lined with food stalls and huge shopping malls, to towering skyscrapers topped with rooftop bars offering stunning views and signature cocktails. This is your illustrated guide to planning your most memorable experiences, with insider tips to help you find the real city.

BANGKOK HIGHLIGHTS - 5 REASONS TO GO

1. Fairytale architecture in magnificent temples with some of the world’s most monumental Buddha images. 2. The world’s highest and most spectacular rooftop bars . 3. Some of the world’s biggest street markets . 4. One of the world’s best cuisines and the most varied street food . 5. A world-(in)famous nightlife for all tastes.

First time in Bangkok?

Helpful insider tips to plan the perfect days in the city:.

The Best Neighborhoods Know where to stay

Top 10 Attractions What you must see and do

Bangkok in 1, 2, or 3 Days Suggested itineraries

Bangkok Tours The most popular tours and activities

Top 25 Rooftop Bars The world's most spectacular rooftops

Transportation Know how to get around Bangkok

Advance planning -- know before you go.

WHEN TO GO : Bangkok is a year-round destination, but its tropical climate is more pleasant at different times of the year. No matter when you go, it will be hot and humid, but the cooler days are between November and January (December is the coolest, with average high temperatures reaching 26°C/79°F). Take an umbrella between May and November, as that’s the unpredictable rainier season, but it will still be warm and the rains rarely last more than one or two hours at a time. The highest temperatures happen between March and May, with April being the hottest and most uncomfortable month (the average high is 35°C/95°F). The peak tourist season is December and January. In April you’ll catch the Thai New Year celebrations, while in May you’ll see candlelight processions around important temples, marking Buddha’s Enlightenment. Another major event is the Golden Mount Fair in November, with performances and processions at the foot of the Golden Mount .

VISAS : Citizens from the United States, Australia, and most of Europe can enter Thailand without a pre-arranged visa. You’ll be allowed to stay for 30 days, but those wishing to stay longer can acquire a 60-day tourist visa from a Thai embassy or consulate prior to arrival. You should do that about one month before your departure date.

BOOKINGS : You should book your hotel about three months in advance for the most popular luxury or boutique hotels , especially if you’re staying in December or January. Not only will you have a better chance of getting the preferred room, you’ll also have the best rates. If you’re interested in a tour , book it one week before. If you’re wondering where you should book your room, see our guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Bangkok .

HOW MANY DAYS IN BANGKOK ? Although many people stay in Bangkok for just two or three days, before or after the Thai beach resort experience, it’s not uncommon for visitors to extend their time to as much as one week or more. You can see the main sights in just two days, but, with its many rooftop pools and bars, spas and massages, Bangkok is also a city for relaxation and pampering, not meant to be rushed. For the full experience, plan at least five days in the city.

WHAT’S NEW IN BANGKOK IN 2022?

The COVID-19 pandemic has put many projects on hold around the world, including in Bangkok, but there are still new attractions in the city to enjoy in 2022. Despite the devastating effects of the pandemic on the travel industry, Bangkok has inaugurated two major new hotels, both located in the same compound on the riverfront. Those are the luxurious Capella Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok . Also new is Paradise Lost, a tropical-inspired and eco-friendly rooftop bar at the design hotel Siam@Siam . Then there’s the city’s ever-expanding transport network. After the new stations of the MRT (the underground metro), which now offer faster connections to popular neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Old City (and they are some quite beautiful stations, especially Wat Mangkon Station, which is decorated with traditional Chinese motifs), come new stations for the BTS Skytrain, although these are on the northbound Sukhumvit line, outside the typical tourist areas. The MRT has also introduced Thailand’s first underground museum, at the Sanam Chai station. It’s a free and very informative exhibition, with artifacts unearthed during the station’s construction, mostly related to the area’s ancient palaces.

OFFICIAL BANGKOK TOURISM OFFICE

BangkokTourismGuide.com has everything you need to plan your visit to Bangkok. Written by tourism experts, it offers complete and unbiased information, and is entirely independent, not associated with any local business, organization or institution. It’s an insider’s guide which you may print, creating a guidebook to take around the city with you. In case of any last-minute doubts when you arrive, look for the official tourism office at Suvarnabhumi Airport, open 24 hours on the arrivals floor. In the center of the city, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has a tourist office on 1600 New Phechatburi Road, close to the Phetchaburi station of the MRT subway and the Makkasan station of the Airport Rail Link.

Bangkok Guide:

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Bangkok travel guide.

Energetic, chaotic, and majestic, these are just a few words that come to mind when describing Bangkok. The heart and capital of Thailand, Bangkok is one of the most sprawling and metropolitan cities in Asia, and a popular gateway into the country. A city that has deeply rooted traditions and cosmopolitan attitudes, Bangkok has abundant cultural fascinations to captivate travelers from all over the world.

Located close to the Gulf of Thailand, Bangkok is a city of waterways with the Chao Phraya River flowing through it. Back in the 19th century, as most of the city’s residents lived near or on the water, the city is known as the “Venice of the East.” While the history of Bangkok dates back about 600 years, it didn’t become the capital city until the 18th century. Through trade and commerce, the city expanded to its current scale. Today tourism is one of the major sources of revenue in Bangkok.

With a tropical monsoon climate, the capital is hot and humid year-round. The most pleasant months to visit are from November to March when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. But this also means crowds are at their peak in late Fall and Winter, and this is particularly true around the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. If you don’t mind the monsoon season, July and August are the off-peak seasons where many good deals are available on hotels and flights.  

There are so many first-rate scenic spots on offer in Bangkok, it is impossible to see them all if you only have a few days. For major tourist attractions in Bangkok, most are historical or religious sites. Make sure you admire the amazing architectural design of the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, pay homage to the sacred Jade Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) or the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), or cruise past the temples and mansions on the Chao Phraya River (River of Kings). It is worth noting that, as many sites are sacred, there are strict rules which all visitors must follow. For instance, dress codes at the Grand Palace and various temples, men must wear long pants, shirts with sleeves, and no bare feet are permitted. Women must wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. 

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OZO North Pattaya

Grande Centre Point Pattaya

Amari Pattaya

Holiday Inn Pattaya, an IHG Hotel

Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya

Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya

Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa

Hua Hin Marriott Resort and Spa

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Sala Ayutthaya

Na Tree Tara Riverside Resort Amphawa Damnoensaduak

S Sriracha Hotel & Residence

Oakwood Hotel & Residence Sriracha

Novotel Marina Sriracha & Koh Si Chang

Cape Dara Resort

Popular instagrammable hotels near bangkok.

Navana Nature Escape

Arbour Hotel and Residence

The Gems Mining Pool Villas Pattaya

Veranda Resort Pattaya Na Jomtien – MGallery

Ana Anan Resort & Villas Pattaya

Plakan Resort

Cross Pattaya Oceanphere - Formerly X2 Pattaya Oceanphere

Thames Valley Khao Yai

Hotel Labaris Khao Yai

Toscana Hotel la Casetta

Nhapha Khaoyai Resort

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Villa Panalai

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Sea Two Pool Villa Resort Pattaya

The Vista Pool Villa

Sea Sand Sun Resort and Villas

MUTHI MAYA Forest Pool Villa Resort

Zantiis Ndol Villas

Baan Souchada Resort & Spa

The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill Khao Yai

Itz Time Hua Hin Pool Villa

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• 42 Bangkok Tips For First Timers: Must-Read Guide

About to take your first trip to Bangkok? These Bangkok tips for first timers will help you get started on the right foot, from where to eat and to where to stay to which sights should make your itinerary.

If you are planning to visit Bangkok for the first time, you are in for a treat. To make sure you come to love the city as much as we do, our good friend Helen from Differentville has shared her list of Bangkok tips for first-timers, aka how not to hate Bangkok , to help you make the most of your visit.

Why I didn’t enjoy my first Bangkok trip

1. find the areas with character, 2. don’t just go where everyone else does, 3. get up early, 4. find somewhere to chill out, 5. it’s okay to go to mcdonald’s and hope it all goes away, 6. keep your eyes peeled, 7. the grand palace is probably open, 8. know where to find good food, 9. ask an expert, 10. don’t fret about chopsticks, 11. don’t try to find street food on a monday, 12. take the chance to go gourmet, 13. know where the girly bars are, 14. be nice, 15. drinking in soi 4 for women, 16. stay downstairs, 17. buckets are evil, 18. the ‘hangover bar’ is not the only rooftop bar in bangkok, 19. khao san road., 20. there are cool bits of bangkok, 21. visit a night market, 22. the airport train may not go where you’re staying, 23. buy a rabbit card, 24. bring your passport, 25. tuk tuks are fun, 26. be careful of taxis, 27. get some small notes as soon as you arrive, 28. download grab, 29. don’t forget the boats, 30. get on the right boat on the chao praya, 31. walking is the best way to see stuff, 32. choose your area well, other useful advice when visiting bangkok for the first time, 33. don’t drink the water, 34. avoid food poisoning, 35. take probiotics before your trip, 36. buy a sim card or esim, 37. carry id with you., 38. pack a top that covers your shoulders and skirt or trousers that cover your ankles., 39. you might see ++ on a restaurant or hotel bill., 40. carry plenty of small banknotes., 41. stop looking for anyone carrying a pig on a motorbike, 42. you will at one point during your trip get the song one night in bangkok stuck in your head..

This page contains affiliate links. Please read see our disclosure policy . Considering I have been to Bangkok eight times it might surprise you to hear I hated it the first time I went. So did my partner (who is now as addicted to the place as I am).

It’s a story I hear over and over again–and while it’s taken me a long while to ‘get’ the place, I think I’ve picked up a few tips that might help everyone on their first time in Bangkok have an incredible time.

My first trip to Bangkok was sometime in the early 2000s – prime  The Beach  territory. Until then, most of my holidays had been to Europe or the USA, but I had heard that in the other direction, there was this place called Asia where chaos reigned.

Here the roads were full of motorbikes, often carrying everything from a whole wardrobe or a small family of pigs.

The food was exotic and spicy, and you diced with death if you ate it anywhere except a clean, sanitised restaurant.

Markets either floated or were a cacophony of noise, smells and sights guaranteed to turn me vegetarian.

There were gleaming temples, winding alleys, a hint of sin… Imagine my surprise therefore when I turned up in Bangkok to find a branch of Boots (a UK pharmacy) opposite my hotel, McDonald’s on every corner, and a selection of designer clothes shops to rival Bond Street in London. I was confused.

I wandered around the temples; I went to the backpacker central of the Khao San road where people with dreadlocks and ridiculous traveller’s trousers looked like they’d arrived in 1974 and never left.

I whizzed about in tuk-tuks and I ate my body weight in Pad Thai, but I didn’t find this madness I was looking for.

I went home decidedly underwhelmed and thinking that Bangkok was overrated. Other people have the opposite experience. ‘It was all just too much,’ says my partner Neil. ‘Everything was noisy and smelly.

Bikes were everywhere. People were everywhere. I just couldn’t think. I decided I wouldn’t go back.’ We were both staying on the same road, just at different ends!

Over time I’ve realised that whatever you’re looking for in Bangkok – frantic madness with a side order of grit, a ‘mild’ introduction to Southeast Asia, or trendy bars and coffee shops that wouldn’t seem out of place in London or New York, you can find it in Bangkok (if you know how) – and in time it’s a place that just gets under your skin.

But before that can happen you need to enjoy your first time in Bangkok and here’s my list of tips that I think will help. You’ll learn where to go, what to eat, and what to do to have an awesome first trip to Bangkok.

Sightseeing in Bangkok

I’m guessing you’ve come to Bangkok to see some sights and there are a lot of them – the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Khao San Road should all be on your must-see list for a Bangkok first-time visitor – but if you’re not careful, your first trip to Bangkok can seem like a mass of temples, all blending into one another and not a lot in between.

That’s a shame because if you look behind the surface a bit of Bangkok and you’ll find a fascinating city full of intriguing things to discover.

So, here are some ideas that might not be on the radar when you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time but should be…

On my first time in Bangkok, I stayed as so many people do in the area of Sukhumvit. It’s a fantastic place – if you want to go shopping…if you’re looking for somewhere with a bit more grit or character, you won’t find it here…as my friend Greg (another Bangkok first-time hater) said, ‘I just found it all really sterile.’

Areas with a bit more character to check out include Chinatown, Talad Noi, a working district full of car repair shops that’ll make any photographer’s day, Little India, and the Khlong Toei Wet Market.

If your Bangkok first-time itinerary reads ‘Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Khao San, and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market’ you’ll see some amazing sights, but you might also walk away from Bangkok saying it’s too touristy, so mix things up a bit.

The places above will help, but if you have time also think about visiting Nang Leong Market  for all the cheap food you can eat.

You might see one or two other foreign faces in this lunch place for locals but not many more than that.

• North Samsen Road Even around the tourist centre that is Khao San road, wander north about 25 minutes-walk up Samsen Road and you’ll find a truly local area with an amazing wet market and some fascinating backstreets. Find directions in this guide to less touristy things to do near Khao San .
• Taling Chan about 11km from Bangkok’s Grand Palace is no longer the secret it once was, but it’s still a good place to get some nice pics of a genuine floating market – without having to get up at 4 am to beat the crowds at Damnoen Saduak.
• Take a day trip to Maeklong Railway Market.  This market is famous as a train runs through it daily – yes, it’s packed with tourists, but if you go by train, rather than on a tour, you’ll get an experience few other folks do. You’ll find full instructions on how to get to Maeklong by train here .

If you are going somewhere super touristy (and you should because there’s a reason all the main Bangkok sights are on your must-see list), go early – everyone else is sleeping off the after-effects of 200 baht buckets of booze! 

Anywhere in Asia can feel a bit full-on if you’re out pounding the pavements day in, day out.

And if you’re not going to come away from your first time in Bangkok, needing a holiday or swearing never to return, you’ll need to take a break sometimes.

Sit by the pool in your hotel sometimes – it’s not a crime (it’s where you’ll find me most mornings until Bangkok wakes up!)

If you want to combine chilling out with sightseeing, visit Lumphini Park, which, once you get away from the traffic that rings it, is a proper escape in Bangkok

Or, go and see an exhibition at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre opposite the MBK shopping centre. The silence here makes a welcome change.

There’s also a park just outside the, sometimes insanely busy, Chatuchak Market that you can escape to when inside the market gets too hot and sticky.

So you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time and you’re ready to throw yourself into 24-7 Thai Culture.

And then five days in, you’ve had enough spicy food, it’s too hot, you’re sick of Thai beer and no you don’t want a bloody t-shirt with Same Same on it.

That’s fine – go get a Maccas. Sit in the air-con and literally and figuratively chill. There’s no law that says you have to go all Thai, all the time.

Personally, though if you’re going to eat fast food in Bangkok I’d say go to KFC – it’s great in Bangkok, the staff seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs; you get cutlery; the food is great – and it comes with chilli sauce! If it is all getting a bit much, but you don’t quite want to go fully Western, some nice compromises are:

• Head to the giant ICONSIAM shopping mall and go to their floating market food hall. Clean, easy, air-conditioned – and full of local restaurants.
• Visit Cabbages and Condoms – it’s a Thai restaurant with a unique theme. The food is good, the staff speak English, it’s nice and calm (just wear insect repellent).
• Wander around the food hall at Siam Paragon – it’s one of my favourite places in the city. Just buy a prepaid card, load it with cash, and pick whatever looks good.
• Check out the Unicorn Cafe and destress cuddling magical creatures.

Some of my favourite Bangkok moments have been nothing to do with the big sights – they’ve just been things I’ve spotted on the street like watching a pink-haired old lady feed her duck just a few minutes walk from Khao San Road – who knew?

Another day I watched a troop of Lion Dancers squeeze their entire costume (and all of them) into a tuk-tuk and speed off to their next job.

I was on the bridge overlooking CentralWorld as a Thai football team went past on an open tour bus with what seemed like every single moped in Bangkok riding alongside them beeping – that was a never-to-be-repeated experience.

None of them are in any tour book, but they’re some of my best memories of my trips to Bangkok.

There’s so much going on if you keep your eyes peeled – and always, always look in shop doorways. Some of them are amazing.

Scams: what every first-time visitor to Bangkok needs to know

‘Everyone is trying to rip you off’ – is another common refrain you hear about why people hate the city after visiting Bangkok for the first time.

And yes, I will confess I’ve met a few scammers in my time there. Here’s what not to fall for…

The first time I went, I got in a tuk-tuk to go to the Grand Palace.

If you’re going to find a dodgy tuk-tuk driver in Bangkok, saying the words Grand Palace will make them manifest faster than saying Beetlejuice three times brings out Michael Keaton.

They smile and say. ‘It’s closed today, let me take you somewhere else instead.’ That somewhere else is his brother’s shop!

You’ll also find ‘helpful’ people telling you that it’s closed on the roads around the Palace and other major sights.

Remember the Golden Rule of Bangkok – unless something very important is happening with the Royal Family (which will be on the news), it’s extremely unlikely that any of the major attractions are closed when they are supposed to be open.

The Grand Palace is open from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm, 7 days a week. Oh, your hostel is very unlikely to have burned down without them telling you too.

Also watch out for any tuk-tuk driver who wants to take you on a detour to a shop, restaurant, or bar, en route to wherever you want to go. Just say no.

My favourite story on Bangkok scams though comes from a friend, who, as a naïve 20-something got a limo to pick her up from the airport.

As he hurtled along the freeway at about 40 over the speed limit, he gave her a grave warning. ‘Don’t get in the normal taxis – they carry spare gas in their boot and if another car hits them, they explode.’ Of course, at this point, he then offered to be her personal chauffeur, in his clearly non-exploding car, for the rest of the trip.

To me this sums up Bangkok scams, they’re harmless guys chancing their arm – just be aware of it.

Eating in Bangkok for first-timers

Eating all the Thai food you can is probably on your list of things to do in Bangkok, but I admit, until recently, even I was a bit cautious about what I ate and where I ate it.

It’s taken time for me to get brave enough to try some of the more local-looking places – and chances are you’re going to be equally nervous on your first trip to Bangkok. So….

There’s a lot of good food in Bangkok, and there’s a lot of cheap food in Bangkok, but sometimes it doesn’t seem that there’s a lot of good, cheap food – particularly in places you might be spending most of your time when in Bangkok for the first time! 

Good choices include the Tom Yum at Pe Aor in Ratchathewi and the famous 50-year beef soup at Wattana Panich in Watthana near Ekkamai.

For full details and more suggestions, check out my post on  where to find some of the best cheap food in Bangkok here.

If it’s your first time in Bangkok and you’re a bit nervous about street food or eating locally, I definitely recommend taking a food tour with Bangkok Food Tours. They show you the best places.

They got me over my worries about just walking in somewhere with no English menu and pointing at whatever looks good – the dishes above were from somewhere I tried on the tour, then went back to.

Thai food is eaten with a knife and fork.

The stalls close for cleaning. For the same reason, don’t plan a trip to Chinatown on a Monday night, if you want to eat from the tiny stalls that fill the roads there. You’ll be disappointed.

Bangkok is home to four of the top 10 restaurants in Asia – according to the San Pelligrino Awards.

And the prices are VERY cheap compared to eating at similar quality places elsewhere in the world. Three of the best are Sorn, Raan Jay Fai, and Suhring.

Bangkok nightlife for rookies

Whether it’s drinking cold bottles of Chang watching the world go by on Khao San Road, a sophisticated night of cocktails on a rooftop, or a full-on Hangover-esque trawl through the dodgiest bars in Bangkok, you’re not going to be lacking for something to do in Bangkok at night, but like everything else, it pays to know what you’re doing so you don’t end up with a three-figure bar bill or a tattoo on your face!

And avoid them If this type of thing is going to upset you. Prostitution may be illegal in Thailand, but you’d never believe it in a few areas.

The good news is, it’s fairly easy to avoid–don’t go to Soi 4 in Sukhumvit or Soi Cowboy near Asok, avoid Soi 1 and 2 or Soi Twilight in Patpong. Job done.

Admittedly, the last time we went, a lot of the bars at the upper end of Soi 4 had closed and other businesses were moving in. There’s even an Ibis hotel at that end now.

Rules in the Nightlife areas

Knowing these “rules’ will help you navigate Bangkok after dark and find the right place for a great night out.

If you are drinking in Nana or Patpong. and are males on your own, yes, the girls will approach you. If you’re not interested, just be nice and say no thank you. They’re only doing their job.

If you’re a girl drinking in Soi 4, I’ve found Hilary’s bars most friendly. If you don’t want to go into an official girly bar, try Hanrahan’s Irish Pub.

Personally, I don’t go into the bars in Patpong, as I’m not keen on the area, but there are a few outside areas of bars that line the market that give you a good chance to watch the world go by and soak up the atmosphere.

If you go to Patpong, don’t go upstairs in a ping-pong bar – you’re just asking for a few thousand baht bar bill and a large guy standing in the way of your exit until you pay it.

If you want to get an idea of what goes on inside such establishments, take a trip to the fun Patpong Museum instead.

Oh, and know that if you ever play a bar girl at Connect Four, you will lose. They are masters at it. Thankfully, this mistake will only cost you the price of a Lady Drink.

They sound like a great idea. Lovely, lovely booze that tastes like sweeties for just a few hundred baht. You’ll just have one you tell yourself.

You’re on holiday you tell yourself. It’s your first trip to Bangkok, you want the picture you tell yourself.

You will not drink one. You will think you only drank one and then find pictures of yourself with three different coloured buckets.

You will then spend the whole of the next day with your head on a table thinking you are dying. I can neither confirm nor deny if I know this from personal experience.

The Sky Bar on the 63rd Floor of the Lebua Tower has become a must-visit for Bangkok first-timers after its appearance in The Hangover.

Yes, it’s incredible – but it’s also very busy because of it. It is a first-time in Bangkok rite of passage – and, if it’s on your list you must go (checking the dress code first).

You won’t believe how high it is when you’re up there with barely any safety barriers! But, if you don’t like crowded places, want somewhere you’ll feel as comfortable ordering a beer as a cocktail, or just want to do something different, here are a few other bars with views you might want to check out – most of them have a slightly less formal feel than Sky Bar.

• Sala Rattanakosin – directly opposite the Wat Arun temple, it has a great view of the river and is stunning at sunset.
• Above Eleven – chic bar just off Sukhumvit
• Octave Rooftop Bar and Lounge near Thong Lor – it’s chilled and has a good happy hour.
• Red Sky – right on top of the Central World tower so convenient if you’re staying around Siam/Chitlom
• If you’re in Chinatown and get thirsty, the Hotel Royal has a small pool bar with a view of the surrounding roofs

All of these are clearly marked on google maps.

It is What it Is! And what it is, is a melting pot of the world’s backpackers – which basically means that come 10 pm it looks like your local High Street on a Saturday night… No matter where you’re from!

It’s fun, the beer is cheap, find the right venue and you’ll have a blast – but don’t expect a cultural experience.

Oh and no matter how good an idea it seems at the time, you do not need a frog that croaks when you rub a wooden stick over its back.

If you do become tired of the ladies selling you frogs, the accents you hear back home or just the backpacker-ness of it all and want a change of scenery without going far, try Soi Rambutri which is still cheap and cheerful but less rowdy, take a walk up Phra Sumen to the more local Pat Bar.

Or, walk up to Samsen Road which is lined with small bars like Adhere the 13th Blues Bar or Post..

I’ve just talked about the line of bars on Samsen Road in which you’ll find some Thai hipsters hanging out, but there are a few other areas to try if you want to search out Bangkok’s next cool thing.

Charoen Krung Road, slightly southeast of Talad Noi is Bangkok’s newest hipster area with coffee shops, art galleries, restaurants, and a few bars springing up. Search for Tropic City and Jua on google maps.

Also, check out the more established group of trendy bars in Chinatown on a road called Soi Nana. Look for Tep bar or Teens of Thailand on google maps.

Night markets are also another cool thing to do in Bangkok – no, not the touristy ones selling you knock-off Rolexes and Same Same t-shirts, but those that combine selling vintage goods with pop-up bars and restaurants or food trucks.

Check out JJ Green near Mo Chit BTS station or Talad Rot Fai at Ratchada (metro: Thailand Cultural Centre). Both markets run Thur- Sun from 6 pm.

Getting around Bangkok as a first timer

Getting around Bangkok can be a bit tiring – traffic is pretty bad and a lot of places you want to go as a first-time visitor don’t seem to be immediately accessible by any obvious transportation. It takes a while to get your head around it all.

This should help…

Basically, there are four main ways you’ll be likely to get around during your first time in Bangkok – taxi, BTS Skytrain – an elevated train that goes to many popular tourist destinations – the Metro and the Chao Praya river boats which go up and down the main river that runs through the city.

But I’d also suggest you explore by the smaller canal boats, tuk-tuks and on foot.

You can also get motorbike taxis and the bus – but I’m not sure they are best for first-timers. A few things to note though include:

At 45 baht a trip (rather than 300-400 for a taxi) the Airport Train to the city can save you cash, but be aware – it only takes you to Phetchaburi or the Phaya Thai Metro station where you’ll need to swap lines to the Metro or BTS which can be a bind if you’ve got a lot of luggage – and if you’re staying at Khao San Road, you’ll still need a taxi.

Not to mention that the BTS gets very full at certain points and getting out of it with luggage could be tricky.

If you want to avoid long taxi trips just jump off the train at whichever stop is closest to your hotel and grab a taxi there.

Like the Sydney Opal card or the London Oyster card, this preloaded card lets you pay for your journeys on the BTS Skytrain without having to fumble for cash.

You can also use it in Family Mart, Subway, McDonald’s, and a heap of other stores to pay for purchases.

They now ask all tourists to show their passport when registering their Rabbit card for the first time, or filling up an old one, so make sure you have it with you.

There’s nothing like blasting through the Bangkok traffic in one – especially late at night when they can go fast enough to blast.

However, they are not the cheapest way to get about if you’re a foreigner. Know that, barter the fare down a bit to pay what you think the experience is worth for you – then just enjoy it

Catching taxis can be the one time where even I hate Bangkok! You get in the taxi – and they refuse to put the meter on.

I’ve even got staff in the hotel to get a taxi, have them put the meter on as they leave, then get around the corner and turn it off, demanding a flat fee way higher than what I’m supposed to be paying.

It’s a better plan to use the BTS Skytrain service to get as far as you can out of the area in the direction you need to go – and then get a cab.

What I have learned though is that this is far more likely to happen in the area around Sukhumvit where the traffic is appalling and it can easily take 40-50 minutes for a short journey.

If it happens, remember that you’re often still only paying a few pounds or dollars over the odds and sometimes, it’s just not worth worrying about.

Elsewhere in Bangkok, the drivers have been fine and I’ve never had a problem with a taxi leaving from the official queue at the airport.

There are two tolls on the road from the airport into Bangkok and the driver will ask you to pay them, that’s normal, but it’s handy if you have a small note to do so.

There’s also a 50 baht airport fee that’s added, again, totally normal.

This app is like Uber and it makes getting around Bangkok in a taxi far less stressful, as the driver always knows where you’re going and the fare is fixed.

It can get busy and you might need to wait so allow a little extra time if you’re going to use it.

Bangkok has a series of canals running through it – and, if you’re trying to get from say, Khao San Road to Siam, it’s a lot easier to jump on one of the San Saeb Canal boats than try and get there by the BTS.

You can also get the boat along the main Bangkok river, the Chao Praya which can come in very handy.

This is great for getting to Khao San Road from Sukhumvit – take the BTS to Saphan Taksin, find Sathorn Pier, jump on the boat, and get off at Phra Arthit a short walk away.

Ditto the easiest way to get to the Grand Palace from Sukhumvit is to get the riverboat up to Ta Chang from Sathorn Pier.

Note: The Chao Praya boats don’t run at night, they are for day trips only.

If you decide to take the boat up the river, when you get to Sathorn pier, you will be greeted by a mass of humanity – all looking completely confused as to what boat to get.

The main two boats you’ll probably need to know about your first time in Bangkok are the Tourist Boat . 

This has a blue flag and costs 60 baht to take you to where you want to go – or 200 baht for a day pass.

The guides speak English and will be a bit more forgiving about waiting at the pier for you to get off.

They only stop where people want to get off so if you hear the name of your pier called, yell out – or it’ll whizz past. The downside is it only runs every half an hour.

The Regular Boats : This costs 16 baht to go to the same places as the Tourist Boat. This has an orange flag. If there’s no ticket seller on the pier on which you board, or you didn’t get a chance to buy one, you can just pay the conductor on the boat.

It can be a bit frantic and you need to be ready to get out at your stop – they don’t hang around.

There are also regular boats with no flags, boats with yellow flags, and boats with green flags that run at different times of day and stop at different piers.

Note. You can’t get on any of the regular boats with the 200-baht pass. I’ve seen a lot of tourists look very grumpy when they have to pay again.

I’m inherently tight when it comes to these boats so will always get the cheap boat – in reality, you’re quibbling over about 35 baht so get on whichever comes in first!

Read our detailed public transport guide here

But man it’s hot. Wear sunscreen, carry water (there’s always a 7-11 or Family Mart close by to buy some), and walk slowly so you don’t overheat.

Where to Stay in Bangkok your First Time

When you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time you do not want to stay in the middle of nowhere. You’ll spend your whole day travelling.

You want to be somewhere close to the sights you most want to see – or with easy access to transportation. So,

And for a first-time Bangkok visitor, I’d suggest you stick to:

Located around the BTS stations of Nana and Asok, Sukhumvit is lined with big hotels and while it doesn’t have any attractions per se (unless you’re into the girly bar thing) the fact that the BTS Skytrain runs right down the middle of it makes it easy to get around.

You won’t have any problems finding hotels in this area – plus Bangkok has some of the cheapest hotel prices in the world for the quality of the rooms you get. You’ll find you can often book a suite for the price of a budget room in London! A good choice is the Fraser Suites . We stayed here on one trip, and the room was possibly larger than my house.

Top tip if you do stay here, use the little Tuk Tuk to the station – it will save your legs from a lot of steps. Another popular choice is Grande Centre Point Terminal 21.

Chitlom to Siam

This is the other end of Sukhumvit Road and where I stayed for my first time in Bangkok. It’s again, brilliant for transport and amazing if you want to shop.

Personally, I would recommend the Amari Watergate . It’s set a bit back from the main area but is only a short walk to all the shopping malls.

If you can, spring for an executive club room which gives you access to your own private rooftop bar. Sitting here after a day of madness and watching the sunset with a (free) glass of fizz was absolutely fantastic. On my first trip to Bangkok, I stayed at the Holiday Inn Bangkok which is even closer to the shops. I haven’t been there for a long time, but it’s still there and still gets great reviews!

MBK Shopping Centre

This is a super convenient place to stay because even though there’s not a lot around her (apart from the mall) you are smack bang in the middle of everywhere you want to go by public transport.

There’s even a hotel on top called the Panthumwan Princess which is fantastic – and has one of the best pools I’ve found in Bangkok so far.

Khao San Road

If you want to spend most of your time around the main sights of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, it’s probably the best area to stay for sightseeing as you can walk to the main sights in about 20 minutes. The road itself is crammed with more ridiculously cheap hotels than you can shake a stick at but if you aren’t on a backpacker budget, look at the Casa Nithra which is a little bit off Khao San itself, but my normal place to stay on this side of the city.

Or, if you’re lucky enough to get a room, try the Riva Surya . It’s always been full when I’ve tried to go.

The Riverfront

There’s a crop of boutique hotels around the riverfront by the Grand Palace itself – very convenient, but the influx of daily tourists might drive you a bit mad.

Have a look at Sala Rattanakosin  (yes of the bar I mentioned above) or Riva Arun .

There are also 5-star hotels all along the river and the Millennium Hilton Bangkok is right next to ICONSIAM for serious shoppers.

The business district is lined with office blocks and glitzy five-star hotels – rubbing shoulders with the madness that is Patpong.

I have never stayed here personally, but you’ll be unlikely to go far wrong with established names like the Banyan Tree or The Sukhothai .

Hopefully, all the above will mean you have an awesome time on your first trip to Bangkok and come away loving it not hating it – but just before you go off to plan heaps of cool stuff, there are just a final few things that might smooth things out for you.

Don’t even brush your teeth in the water. Most hotels offer bottled water or pick it up from the 7-11. There will be one close to your hotel – they are everywhere.

Use all the normal sensible advice on eating to avoid food poisoning.

If you can buy them where you live, take Bimuno Travelaid Pastilles before you leave. They are prebiotic pastilles that feed the gut bugs that fight off tummy troubles.

I swear by these and have literally eaten off the same plate as my partner when using them and he’s got sick and I haven’t.

Bangkok is enormous and if you want to walk anywhere you’re going to need maps.

It’s a legal requirement, and we have been stopped and asked for it before

You’ll need it if you’re going to go into any of the main temples, the new Giant Buddha at Wat Paknam or the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace dress code is particularly strict.

As well as the above (and a scarf to cover your shoulders won’t cut it), you can’t wear anything tight-fitting, anything see-through, anything that shows your middle, back, or cleavage, or anything ripped. It’s also best to wear closed-toe shoes.

This means that your bill will come with a 10% added service charge plus local taxes (around 7%). If a bill says “nett,” then these are included already.

If you have a large Thai banknote, go to 7-11 and buy a drink to break it – they always have change.

That’s Vietnam (I know I was disappointed too). There are a lot of dogs on scooters though!

I can’t help you with that one! You can listen to it here .

Keep Planning Your Trip to Thailand

• How To Get Around Bangkok: Public Transport For Visitors
• The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat: Sightseeing Tips For Every Stop
• 12 Things to Know Before Going to Thailand
• Simple Thai Words and Phrases for Traveling in Thailand

About the Author: Helen Foster is a freelance journalist and author based in Sydney. Her travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, Jetstar Magazine, and RAC Horizons. She has taken more than ten trips to Thailand.

Bangkok   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Luciano Mortula | Getty Images

Why Go To Bangkok

Travelers have a hard time putting a pin in Bangkok's personality. Most first-timers see this city as one caught between the past and the present. Ancient temples and modern shopping malls comprise Thailand's capital, and Buddhist monks and regulars of Patpong (Bangkok's red light district) share the city's streets. The contrast can result in an exhilarating yet chaotic setting.

With that said, Bangkok's dynamic environment requires a lot of energy. Consistently hot weather and persistent crowds take their toll on unprepared visitors. Yes, the city seems to boil over with everything from humidity to humanity, but it's this exotic overabundance that charms travelers. Here, you'll find the world's largest open-air market, a world-class aquarium housed in an eight-level shopping mall, a 150-foot golden Buddha statue and so much more. It's a city of vast surprises, so savor its delightful incongruity. 

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• # 2 in Best Places to Visit in Thailand
• # 7 in Best Places to Visit in April 2024
• # 16 in Best Places to Visit in Asia

See All 4 Rankings

Best of Bangkok

Best hotels in bangkok.

• in The Siam
• in The Okura Prestige Bangkok
• in Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park

Best Things to Do in Bangkok

• # 1 in Wat Arun
• # 2 in Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
• # 3 in Chatuchak Weekend Market

Popular Tours

Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride

(2040 reviews)

from $ 32.02

Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food Tuk-Tuk Tour

(2486 reviews)

from $ 67.53

Half-Day Railway Market and Floating Market Tour in Thailand

(2653 reviews)

from $ 27.85

Bangkok Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. Still, Thailand's tropical climate could easily bring temperatures up to 90 degrees on any given day, regardless of the time of year. To find deals on airfare and hotel rates, consider a trip between April and October, the hottest and rainiest time of the year. Not only are you more likely to find a deal during this time, but crowds will also likely be fewer in comparison to "winter," which is Bangkok's peak travel season. Keep in mind that monsoon season officially starts in May and generally lasts until late September and early November. 

Weather in Bangkok

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• It's always hot High temperatures in Bangkok are always verging on 90 (if they're not soaring above it). Be prepared with bottled water, sunscreen and light clothing.
• Bring temple attire  Most of Bangkok's  top attractions  are holy sites which require a certain dress code. Bring loose pants or long skirts to cover up your knees and a long shirt or pashmina to cover your shoulders and arms.
• You'll shop  This city specializes in tailor-made clothes, gems, silk and more. You'll find these items with price tags that put Western rates to shame.

How to Save Money in Bangkok

• Stick to street food  You'll find the most affordable and authentic Thai food from street vendors. And with more than 300,000 street vendors in Bangkok, you won't ever have to go to a sit-down restaurant here.
• Shop smart Shopping is a major perk of visiting Bangkok. For the best prices on local goods, opt for street markets like Chatuchak rather than shopping centers.
• Sleep in the Old City Lodging is very cheap in Bangkok; even luxury hotels are affordable here. Still, you can save some baht by booking smaller boutique properties in the Old City.

Culture & Customs

Thai is the official language here, although you'll find English-speakers at major hotels and heavily touristed areas. If you get off the beaten track, you'll most likely run into communication problems. To avoid any miscommunications in transit, write down the address of your destination before you head out. However, most of the city's top attractions as well as the Skytrain and Metro, have signs in English. 

The predominant religion in Thailand is Buddhism, and you'll find temples and statues bearing the image of Buddha throughout the city. At most temples, you'll find that the dress code calls for modest attire (long pants, skirts that fall below the knee, and shirts that cover shoulders and midriffs). The Thai baht is the official currency here; one U.S. dollar is equivalent to 33 baht, but the exchange rate fluctuates, so be sure to check it before you go .  

Don't disrespect the king. The Thai people are very proud of their royalty and will find it immensely rude if you're cracking jokes or criticizing their leader. Also, do your best to be polite. Thais put a high value on kindness and manners, so be considerate. One way you can do this is by practicing "the wai" or the Thai greeting. Join your palms together in prayer, and touch your connected hands to your chest as a way to respectfully say "hello."

What to Eat

The world is your oyster when it comes to the dining scene in Bangkok. The city is considered to be a top foodie destination for a variety of reasons, but its main calling card is its street food. There are more than 300,000 street food vendors in the city, meaning you could probably spend your entire stay in Bangkok without stepping into a sit-down restaurant. You can find street food all over the city, but you should start in Chinatown , particularly on Yaowarat (the neighborhood's main thoroughfare), Khao San and Sukhumvit roads. Here you'll find street vendors in droves, lined up side by side, serving up all kinds of delectable Thai fare.

Stir fries, fried rice, curries, grilled meat and fish skewers, pad see ew, and other noodles dishes are all staples in the street food scene, as is papaya salad, or som tam. Som tam is grated papaya mixed with string beans, chilies, garlic and a host of other spices. This mixing of opposites, such as the sweet and savory or the sweet and spicy, is what Thai cuisine is all about. This blend can also be found in other popular Thai dishes, including massaman curry, a coconut curry with savory ingredients, including potatoes, or sticky rice with mangos, which is sticky rice mixed with mangos and covered in a coconut cream sauce.

Now that you know where to go and what to order, it's important to know how to order, as well as what to look out for when approaching a street vendor. Contrary to popular belief, Bangkok is not getting rid of its street vendors. Instead, the local government is implementing measures to make street food more sanitary. If you see a stall that people – especially locals – aren't visiting, it's best to keep moving. And remember: Some stalls may have English menus, but most don't. Travelers have said that merely pointing to certain ingredients, pictures or what other diners are eating can be the easiest way to order if the vendor only speaks Thai (as most do). Vendors are aware of Bangkok's reputation as a street food capital and are accustomed to dealing with tourists; they'll be able to understand you with even the slightest gesture. 

Bangkok is generally safe to visit. Violent crime against tourists is rare. However, the city is rife with scams. Never ride in a taxi without a meter and make sure the meter is switched on before you get in. And be wary of flat fares. Sometimes drivers offer flat fares instead of a metered fare as a way to overcharge tourists. Tuk-tuks are a fun way to get around the city but don't agree to a tour if offered. Drivers have been known to zip by attractions and take you to shops that pay drivers to bring them shoppers. And while on the subject of shopping, it's best to avoid buying gemstones here unless you're at a luxury outpost. Be cautious of locals approaching you about gemstones, even at a market, as well as those who tell you an attraction or public transportation is closed (the latter is a very common scam). While going about town during the day is pretty safe, you'll want to keep your guard up if you plan on partying. Stay away from the Patpong area (the city's red light district) and also keep track of your drinks. Some bars have been known to hand travelers an expensive bar bill filled with drinks and cover charges that weren't advertised. Sexually-motivated violence has also been known to occur in party settings. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website .  

Getting Around Bangkok

The best way to get around Bangkok is by Skytrain or Metro, which is fast, affordable and easily navigable for visitors. The city also offers an extensive network of buses, but these are prone to traffic jams, which the city is notorious for. Taxis are fairly cheap, but again, gridlock is a regular issue. However, taxis are the easiest way to get from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to downtown. The Airport Rail Link is another great option. For a scenic view of the city, we suggest hopping aboard a riverboat and floating down the Chao Phraya River. 

While you'll no doubt want to admire the beautiful mosaics that comprise Wat Arun during the day, make sure to come back at night to see the spectacular holy site lit up. 

Explore More of Bangkok

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Travel Happy

Bangkok Guide: 55 Tips To Help You The First Time You Travel To Thailand

If you’re travelling to Thailand for the first time, you’ll probably arrive and stay in Bangkok to begin with. Here’s a collection of useful Travelhappy links that will help you get the most out of Thailand’s amazing capital city.

Having lived in Bangkok for the last three years, I’ve written quite a lot here on Travelhappy about this fascinating and exasperating city. Here’s a handy list of links to all the info I’ve written up previously that will help you if you’re planning a visit to Bangkok.

Bangkok Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Bangkok: See our guide to the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Bangkok .
• Things To Do In Bangkok: Check this huge list of Bangkok activities that you can book online.
• Flights To Bangkok: Find the cheapest flights to Bangkok and flight times from scores of airlines with Skyscanner .
• Bangkok Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Thailand .
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.

This is definitely not a comprehensive guide of Bangkok tips and things to do – a Bangkok guidebook is still the best place to look for that – but hopefully you’ll find my own take on Bangkok useful for planning your travels. It’s also wise to arm yourself with a proper map of Bangkok , even if you’re using GPS on your phone – a paper map gives you an instant overview of the city.

As ever, leave a comment to share your own Bangkok tips or if there’s something you need to know that’s not already been covered.

Before you arrive in Bangkok:

• How much money will I need for travelling in Thailand
• Thailand Backpacking: a quick guide
• How To Budget For A Backpacking Trip
• Bangkok On 30 Dollars A Day
• Where to find cheap flights to Bangkok
• Seven Reasons To Go Travelling Solo

Guidebooks and Maps

• The best Bangkok map
• Bangkok Scams and How To Avoid Them
• Taxi and bus prices from Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Airport to downtown Bangkok and Khao San Road

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Bangkok Itineraries

Fit the most into your days in Bangkok with Travel Happy’s carefully planned out Bangkok itineraries

• 1 Day In Bangkok Must See Itinerary
• 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
• 3 Days In Bangkok Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok and on the Beach Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok and the Mountains Itinerary

Bangkok Area Guide

There are numerous areas of interest to travellers in Bangkok – here’s my key highlights of each Bangkok area to help you figure out where to go

• Bangkok Riverside
• Rattanakosin
• Khao San Road
• Lower Sukhumvit – Nana And Asoke
• Central Sukhumvit – Thonglor, Ekkamai And Phrom Phong
• Upper Sukhumvit – On Nut, Phrakanong, And Beyond
• Siam Square, Ratchaprasong and Ploen Chit
• Silom And Sathorn
• Victory Monument
• Ratchadaphisek

Bangkok Hotel Info

• Booking hotels in Bangkok online
• The best cheap hotels in Bangkok around Khao San Road
• Boutique Hotels In Bangkok and see the dedicated website Boutique Hotel Bangkok to easily compare Bangkok’s top 20 boutique hotels
• The Sukhothai – review of my stay one of Bangkok’s super luxury hotels
• The Davis – review of more affordable hotel my parents rated
• Finding Cheap Long Term Accommodation in Bangkok

When you get to Bangkok:

• Bangkok Airport Real Time Flight Information
• Getting Around Bangkok
• How to put a Thai SIM card in your mobile phone
• Reading Email On Your Mobile Phone With Gmail While In Thailand

Things to do in Bangkok:

• Bangkok Longtail Boat Canal Klong Tour
• Grand Palace of Bangkok
• Giant Reclining Buddha of Wat Po
• Vertigo – Highest Open Air Bar In Asia
• Three Sixty Bar, Bangkok Millennium Hilton
• The Mystery Of Jim Thompson’s House
• Bangkok Markets
• Bangkok Shopping Malls
• David Beckham Temple
• Visiting Prisoners In The Bangkok Hilton
• Bangkok’s Green Spaces

Food In Bangkok

• Thai Cooking Classes In Bangkok And Chiang Mai
• Where To Find The Best Food In Bangkok
• Bangkok Restaurant Guide
• Thailand Wines Worth Drinking – Monsoon Valley
• iPods in Bangkok – are they cheaper?
• Buying digital cameras in Bangkok
• Buying Computer Memory (RAM) In Bangkok
• Bangkok Bookshops – A Quick Guide

Bangkok Day Trips

• Bangkok Bike Rides
• Tiger Temple
• Ayutthaya, Thailand’s Ancient Capital

Leaving Bangkok

• Bus To Bangkok Airport From Khao San Road – Where To Catch It
• Thailand Airport Departure Tax (there is none anymore!)
• Thailand Overstay Info (do NOT overstay your visa)
• Angkor Wat from Bangkok
• Budget Flights from Bangkok to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• How To Get A Vietnam Visa in Bangkok
• How To Get A Myanmar Visa in Bangkok
• Cheap Flights From Bangkok to Jakarta
• Cheap Flights from Bangkok to Manila

Travelhappy Travel Guides

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Living In Bangkok Guide
• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Hong Kong Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide

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This is how you visit Bangkok on a budget

Apr 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Bangkok's excellent street food and markets are a great way to eat well on a budget © Witthaya Prasongsin / Getty Images

Bangkok has an enduring allure to global visitors that never seems to get old or go out of style – it continues to fight for its spot on lists of the world's most visited cities.

From hallowed monasteries to all-night techno clubs, street noodles to Michelin-starred tasting menus, and lush public parks to gritty urban train loops, Thailand's capital will leave you dizzy with options and a never-ending list of reasons to return.

That admirable versatility creates an extreme range of costs, reflecting differing income levels and social strata amongst both locals and international visitors. The City of Angels can be a gift to budget travelers if you know where to cut corners but costs can quickly spiral if you go off script. Here are all the insider tips you need to ensure your trip to Bangkok doesn't break the bank.

Daily Costs in Bangkok

• Hostel dorm bed: 250-400B
• Basic room for two: 800-1500B
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 800-2500B
• MRT subway ticket: 15-40B
• City bus: 8-25B
• Canal boat: 8-20B
• Motorcycle taxi: 15-100B
• Car taxi: 45-200B
• Coffee: 30-120B
• Local Thai dinner of four dishes for two: 350-500B
• Bottle of domestic beer in a shop: 41-55B
• Bottle of domestic/imported beer at a bar or restaurant: 150-250B/200-270B
• Glass of wine in a bar or restaurant: 150-300B

Average daily cost: 1800-2800B

Time your visit well

For maximum savings, avoid travel during peak season if at all possible. High season in Bangkok extends from mid-November to early March, when hotels, hostels and guesthouses enjoy high occupancy and charge full rates. It gets even more expensive the week before Christmas through the week after New Year's – some accommodation providers add temporary surcharges of 25 to 35 percent to their peak season rates.

Room rates tend to run significantly lower at other times of the year, with the best deals typically offered in June, July, September and October. Find out more about big events in Bangkok and what you can expect each season in our insider guide to the best times to visit .

Choose local budget airlines

Two airlines based in Thailand – Nok Air and Thai AirAsia – almost always offer lower domestic fares than those posted by national carrier Thai Airways and boutique-marketed Bangkok Airways. It also pays to travel lightly – eligible carry-ons can be taken aboard for free, while checked luggage costs 300B and up for 15kg (Thai AirAsia) or 20 kg (Nok Air). If you can't resist traveling without your home comforts, book your checked baggage in advance to save cash. Start planning early to nab the cheapest fares and choose off-season bargains to save big and stretch your budget.

Opt for a cold beer over cocktails

Wine and spirits, whether imported or produced in Thailand, are subject to high taxes – as much as 400% for imported wine. Just one bottle of wine can double or triple your restaurant tab – a night out in Bangkok that focuses on cocktails and cabernet can often cost the same as one in a European or US city. Beer, which is subject to a much lower tax rate, will bring your restaurant and bar bills down to more affordable levels.

Domestic beers such as Singha, Chang and Leo cost about 30-40% less than imported beers. International brands that are brewed in Thailand under license, such as Heineken San Miguel and Tiger, are priced in between domestic and imported beers. Thai craft beers, including such well-known brands as Chalawan, Chatri and Busaba, aren’t actually brewed in Thailand but in neighboring countries Cambodia and Vietnam, as well as in Australia; they tend to be priced similarly to imported beers.

Eat like a local

The dining scene in Bangkok has exploded over the last decade. Enterprising chefs from all over the world, along with practically every global culinary franchise, have moved in with a vengeance. At last count the city boasted 30 Michelin-starred chefs, elevating Bangkok to world-class levels for fine dining. Although these tasty delights are wonderful for a big occasional blowout, they're not a nightly option for those visiting on a budget.

Luckily, Bangkok is known for its incredible street food culture and the streets are where you'll find the best bargains. It’s also where you’ll find the most authentically Thai and Thai-Chinese cuisine, arguably representing the real heart and soul of the city. Bangkok street food includes not only umbrella-shaded carts parked at the edge of the road or on footpaths but also one-room eateries in modest shophouses throughout the city.

You'll find the pick of such culinary gems in Talat Noi, Chinatown, Suan Phlu, Phra Nakhon and Banglamphu and also in lesser numbers sprinkled about every precinct of the city. Multiple-course, family-style meals are very affordable; for tighter budgets, stick to one-plate dishes where rice is included in the order.

Embrace public transport

Taxi fares are relatively low compared to many other major global cities, but they can still eat up your daily budget quickly. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway lines are much better budget options than taxis and you won't waste time sitting in traffic jams. The networks are quite extensive and you can reach just about any corner of the city using one or the other.

Travel cards are available for both modes of transport, but there are no discounts available and you’ll have to pay a deposit for the card. For short visits, it’s better to buy separate tickets at the station. MRT offers a 50% discount for seniors (over 60 years of age) for all fares, and you don’t have to be a Thai citizen to take advantage of the discount – just show your passport at the ticket window. A 50% discount is also available on MRT for children who are under 120cm (3.9ft) tall and aged under 14. BTS doesn’t offer senior or child fares for foreigners.

City bus fares are even cheaper than rail or subway fares, but the huge network (with over 500 separate routes) is complicated and the buses tend to be slow and relatively uncomfortable. Canal boat lines are similarly cheap but much easier to figure out. Boats run frequently in daylight hours along Khlong Saen Saep across the city from west to east, and they’re especially useful for passengers visiting attractions along the lengthy Sukhumvit Road. Hop on a motorcycle taxi from the canal jetties to get there quickly.

The Chao Phraya River Express line operates passenger boats up and down the Chao Phraya River, stopping at piers on both sides along the way for fares of between 14 to 33B. There's also a Chao Phraya Tourist Boat hop-on-hop-off service that departs every 30 minutes from 11 piers between Sathorn Pier and Phra Arthit Pier. A ticket costs 150B and includes unlimited stops along the route for one day, running from Sathorn to Phra Arthit between 9am and 7:15pm and from Phra Arthit to Sathorn between 8am and 6:30pm.

Stay outside the tourist hub

Generally speaking, restaurants and accommodations along or near Sukhumvit Rd from Soi 1 and as far east as Soi 65 tend to be more expensive than elsewhere in the city. The concentration of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, speakeasies, and massage shops in this district is significantly higher here than in any other area in Bangkok but you'll pay for the privilege.

Go beyond the tourist hub to find bargains in Talat Noi, Chinatown and Phra Nakhon (sometimes referred to as Old Town), three contiguous neighborhoods extending from Charoen Krung Rd parallel to the Chao Phraya River and then north to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Amidst the most historic buildings and temples in the city, there are dozens of budget hostels and guesthouses, along with small eateries and street vendors offering some of the best and most authentic Thai and Chinese cooking in the city. All for less than half the price you'd pay around Sukhumvit Rd.

The districts around Sathon and Silom Rds are a little more expensive than their Old Town neighbors but tend to be more colorful, culturally engaging and affordable than the Sukhumvit area. Towards the north end of the city, the Ari neighborhood is similarly mid-level when it comes to budget but has a more authentic Thai community vibe.

Save on sightseeing with a GetYourGuide City Card

GetYourGuide City Cards offer an all-inclusive pass good for 30+ attractions for two to five days, starting from 4500B. The card includes walking and bike tours, river cruises, cooking classes, massages, pub crawls, and a few museum entries, but not temple entry fees. Make a shortlist of your must-visit highlights to ensure you get maximum bang for your baht before booking. Why not start with our favorite 17 things to do in Bangkok ?

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2024 bangkok travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, tips and more for first-timers in thailand.

Planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand this 2024? Let me help you plan an Amazing Thailand Adventure! If you're visiting Bangkok for the first time, then this detailed Bangkok Travel Guide Blog with sample DIY itinerary (PDF), things to do, tourist spots, budget, breakdown of expenses, and more, will help you plan your trip to the "Land of Smiles!"

Updated: 2024 budget travel guide blog to bangkok for first-timers, thailand visa requirements, when is the best time to visit bangkok, how many days to stay in bangkok.

PRE-TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Book your flights to bangkok.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND ACTIVITIES

• BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card - this is a reloadable card that you can use when riding Bangkok's Skytrain. BTS is the swiftest way to go around the city and avoid heavy traffic in Bangkok.
• 4G SIM Card for Thailand - internet connection is very important when traveling abroad and to stay connected with your family and friends without overspending on roaming services. Be sure to get a local 4G SIM card when traveling to Thailand.
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Half Day Tour - this is a day tour from Bangkok. This tour will let you experience Thailand's biggest and most popular floating market.
• Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride - this day tour from Bangkok will let you discover Thailand's ancient capital with a visit to three of the most important temples in Ayutthaya - Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Lokayasutharam. It also includes a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, Ayutthaya Floating Market, and a Sunset Cruise around the rivers of Ayutthaya.

INDOCHINA ADVENTURE?

• Vientiane to Bangkok
• Siem Reap to Bangkok
• Yangon to Bangkok

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK FROM THE AIRPORT?

From suvarnabhumi international airport, from don mueang international airport.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY IN BANGKOK?

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED IN THAILAND?

4g sim card, 4g pocket wifi.

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK?

Bts sky train, grab car/taxi, metered taxi, motorcycles, private car charter.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK?

For you residence.

• Standard Double Or Twin Room Only - starts at 1,169 Pesos per night
• Standard Double Or Twin Room With Breakfast - starts at 1,481 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Double Room Only - starts at 1,591 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Double Room With Breakfast- starts at 1,856 Pesos per night

Lub D Bangkok

• Lub D Ladies’ Dormitory - starts at 453.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Lub D Dormitory Room Only - starts at 482.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Railway Twin Room Only - starts at 1,113.00 Pesos per night for 2 persons
• Lub D Double Room Only - starts at 1,782.00 Pesos per night for 2 persons

The Spades Hostel

• 1 Bed In 8-Bed Mixed Shared In Dormitory - starts at 509.00 Pesos per night/bed
• 1 Bed In 4 Bed Mixed Shared In Dormitory - starts at 637.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Deluxe Single Bed With Shared Bathroom - starts at 729.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Deluxe Queen Room - starts at 1,977.00 Pesos per night

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Oct 2, 2018 at 7:37pm PDT

• Deluxe Room - starts at 5,200.00 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Room with Bathtub - starts at 6,700.00 Pesos per night

Other Hotels and Hostels in Bangkok

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jul 11, 2018 at 5:27pm PDT

THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK + TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jul 11, 2018 at 2:38am PDT

The Grand Palace

• Guided tour in Grand palace & Emerald Buddha
• Bangkok Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew with Thai Massage Half Day Tour
• Bangkok Cultural City Private Customize One Day Tour
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Walking Half Day Tour
• Bangkok Night Tour: Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Grand Palace

Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha)

Mahanakhon Tower SkyWalk

• Experience Thailand’s tallest observatory deck when you visit the Mahanakhon SkyWalk.
• Hop on a multimedia-themed elevator and head to the King Power Mahanakhon’s 74th floor for a sweeping view of the city.
• Stop by the building’s rooftop on the 78th floor and enjoy an exhilarating walk across the world’s largest glass floors.
• Visit in the afternoon for a memorable sunset experience or late at night for a glittering view of Bangkok. -Klook

KING POWER MAHANAKHON TOWER

The Giant Swing

• Pom Mahakan

• Loha Prasat

Erawan Shrine

Asiatique The Riverfront

Khao San Road

Patpong Night Market, Bazaar, and Clubs

Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine

Jim Thompson House

Terminal 21

Siam Paragon

Madame Tussauds Bangkok

Thai Spa Experience

KidZania Bangkok

Muay Thai Live

Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Dream World

Ancient City and Erawan Museum

• Erawan Museum: 99/9 Moo 1 Bangmuangmai, Samut Prakan, Bangkok 10270, Thailand
• Ancient City: 296/1 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoo, Samut Prakan 10280, Thailand

Must-try Food in Bangkok, Thailand

MUST-EXPERIENCE DAY TOURS FROM BANGKOK

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Other floating market tours in thailand.

• Thailand Floating Markets Day Tour
• Bangkok Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Grand Palace Half Day Trip
• Amphawa Floating Market Half Day Trip
• Vana Nava Waterpark & Floating Market Custom Tour from Bangkok
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Chatuchak Weekend Market Private Day Tour
• Maeklong Train Market and Amphawa Floating Night Market with Firefly Viewing Tour
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Chatuchak Weekend Market Half Day Trip

Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride

Other tours in ayutthaya:.

• Colors of Ayutthaya Biking Tour
• Ayutthaya Grand Pearl River Cruise Tour
• Ayutthaya City Culture Biking Tour
• Ancient Ayutthaya Tour
• Ayutthaya Food Tour
• 2D1N Ayutthaya Private Trip from Bangkok
• Ancient Ayutthaya Private Day Tour

Ratchaburi Day Tour from Bangkok

Other day tours from bangkok, thailand.

Kanchanaburi Full Day Tour

• Travel back in time and recapture Kanchanaburi's triumphs and tragedies on the River Kwai Bridge
• Discover WW2 landmarks including the Death Railway, essential to Thailand's history and culture
• Enjoy an educational stroll on the historical streets by the riverside and experience local food
• Be escorted by your professional yet friendly guide fluent in Chinese and English on this full day tour

Splendid Pattaya Day Tour

• Ride an Amphibious Boat to Pattaya Floating Market, the largest and most popular marketplace in Pattaya
• Upgrade your Instagram feed with Art In Paradise Pattaya's creative 3D murals
• Chill by Pattaya beach with a fresh coconut in hand as you watch a golden sunset
• Get VIP seats at the Colosseum Show Pattaya, a must-see cabaret show when in Thailand

Amphawa Day Tour

• Experience Thailand like a true local - take the railway train and shop at leisure at Amphawa Floating Market
• Ampha is famous for its delicious shellfish (solen strictus) and various seafood cuisine
• Have an authentic seafood lunch at a well-known restaurant in Amphawa
• Visit one of Thailand’s most interesting temples, Wat Bang Kung, surrounded by the roots of a Banyan tree

Hua Hin Day Tour

• Discover the beauty of Hua Hin, a resort town formerly frequented by the Thai royal family
• This immersive tour takes you on an unforgettable adventure to some of the city’s most amazing sights
• Take in the incredible natural views, unique atmosphere and learn about its rich past
• If your itinerary takes you to Hua Hin next, your guide can arrange a downtown Hua Hin drop off for you!

Pattaya City & Coral Island Day Tour

• Visit the neighboring seaside city of Pattaya and explore its scenic beaches on a day trip from Bangkok!
• Take a boat trip to Coral Island and explore its sparkling white beaches and crystal clear waters
• Enjoy fun-filled water activities such as jet ski, parasailing, sea walking, snorkeling and more!
• Experience Pattaya's vibrant and bustling night life as you stroll along Pattaya Beach Road
• An English, Chinese, Japanese, or Korean speaking guide is available to guide you!

Best Places to Shop in Bangkok?

Chatuchak market.

• Wednesday and Thursday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Plants and Flowers Sections only)
• Friday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Wholesale Day)
• Saturday and Sunday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (the whole market is open)

Patpong Night Market

4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS DIY BANGKOK ITINERARY

Day 1: arrival + city tour.

• 06:15 AM - Depart from Manila via Cebu Pacific Air
• 08:15 AM - Arrive in Bangkok
• 09:00 AM - Take the train to Bangkok City Center
• 10:00 AM - Leave bags (or early check-in if allowed) in hotel/hostel in Silom
• 11:00 AM - Lunch
• 12:00 NN - Visit Wat Pho
• 02:00 PM - Visit Wat Arun
• 05:00 PM - Khao San Road / Dinner
• 09:00 PM - Back at the hotel/hostel

DAY 2: AYUTTHAYA DAY TOUR

• 08:30 AM - Meet up at Century Mall (BTS Victory Monument station)
• 09:30 AM - Arrival in Ayutthaya
• 10:00 AM - Visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
• 12:00 NN - Travel to Ayutthaya Floating Market for lunch (own expense)
• 01:00 PM - Explore Ayutthaya Floating Market
• 02:00 PM - Visit Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Lokayasutharam
• 05:00 PM - Enjoy a scenic sunset boat ride
• 06:00 PM - Stop by a night market for food and snacks (own expense)
• 06:30 PM - Depart from Ayutthaya
• 08:00 PM - Arrival in Bangkok (BTS Victory Monument station)
• 09:00 PM - Patpong Night Market / Dinner
• 12:00 MN - Back at the hotel/hostel

DAY 3: FLOATING MARKET DAY TOUR

• 08:00 AM - Meet up at Century Mall (next to BTS Victory Monument station)
• 10:00 AM - Arrive at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and enjoy a 60-minute electric boat ride
• 10:30 AM - Feed fish while on a boat
• 11:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Freely explore the floating market
• 12:00 NN - 01:00 PM - Visit a local seafood market
• 02:00/03:00 PM - Return/arrive at Century Mall Bangkok
• 05:00 PM - Asiatique The Riverfront / Dinner

DAY 4: CITY TOUR + DEPARTURE

• 07:00 AM - Check-out and leave bags at the hotel
• 08:30 AM - The Royal Palace + Temple of the Emerald Buddha ( BOOK A TOUR HERE! )
• 10:30 AM - Lunch
• 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM - City Tour
• City Pillar Shrine
• Giant Swing
• Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple)
• 03:00 PM - Back at the hotel, get bags and travel to the airport
• 04:00 PM - Arrive at the airport, check-in for the flight
• 07:00 PM - Depart for Manila

Sample Bangkok Trip Budget for 4 days and 3 nights for 10,000 pesos budget

• You will be staying for 3 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons for PHP 1,100 per night.
• You are a group of two.
• Your maximum expense for food is 50 THB for breakfast and 100 THB for lunch and dinner per person.
• You'll be using a Rabbit Card pre-loaded with 200 THB.

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES

• Budget hotel for 3 nights - PHP 3,300 / 2 = 1,650 per person
• BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card - PHP 467.00 per person
• 4G SIM Card for Thailand - PHP 240.00 per person
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Half Day Tour - PHP 1,126.00 per person
• Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride - PHP 2,091.00 per person

TOTAL - 5,574 per person

Day 1 expenses.

• Train: Airport to City Center - 45 THB
• BTS Skytrain to Silom - use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• Hotel (1st night) - pre-booked
• Lunch - 100 THB
• Grab Taxi: Silom to Wat Pho - 80 THB / 2 = 40 THB per person
• Wat Pho Entrance Fee - 100 THB
• Boat Ride to Wat Arun - 10 THB
• Wat Arun Entrance Fee - 50 THB
• Grab Taxi to Khao San - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Dinner - 100 THB
• TOTAL - 470 THB per person

DAY 2 EXPENSES

• Hotel (2nd night) - pre-booked
• Breakfast - 50 THB
• Train: Silom (Surasak) to Victory Monument station - use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• Ayutthaya Day Tour - pre-booked
• Train: Victory Monument station to Silom (Surasak)- use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• TOTAL - 250 THB per person

DAY 3 EXPENSES

• Hotel (3rd night) - pre-booked
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Day Tour - pre-booked
• Grab Taxi: Silom to Asiatique - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Grab Taxi: Asiatique to Silom - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• TOTAL - 300 THB per person

DAY 4 EXPENSES

• Grab Taxi: Silom to Royal Palace - 80 THB / 2 = 40 THB per person
• The Royal Palace Entrance Fee - 500 THB
• Loha Prasat Entrance Fee - 20 THB
• Wat Suthat Entrance Fee - 20 THB
• Wat Saket Entrance Fee - 100 THB
• Grab Taxi: Wat Saket to Silom - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Train: Silom (Surasak) to PhayaThai - use Rabbit card (44 THB)
• Airport Rail Link - 45 THB
• TOTAL - 1,000 THB per person

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• DAY 1 - 470 THB
• DAY 2 - 250 THB
• DAY 3 - 300 THB
• DAY 4 - 1,000 THB

TOTAL - 2,920 THB or 4,701 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 5,574 php per person, grand total - 10,275 php per person.

• Round trip airfare Manila-Bangkok-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS AND REMINDERS

• Dress appropriately. When visiting a temple in Thailand, the basic rule is to cover your shoulders and knees for both men and women. To be sure, always wear pants. But there are some temples (such as Wat Pho) that allow entry for men wearing shorts with length below the knee.
• Check the weather. Depending on the season, the weather in Bangkok, Thailand is hot and humid during summer months. It is suggested that you wear light and breathable clothes. If you're visiting during the rainy season, don't forget to bring an umbrella or raincoat for occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. I suggest, you use weather apps to check for the weather forecast before your trip.
• Wear comfy pair of shoes. You will be walk a lot in exploring the temples and palaces in Thailand. It is best to wear comfortable footwear.
• Be respectful. Always abide by the rules in the temples and places of worship you're visiting. Women should not talk or touch the monks. Also, do not point using your feet.
• To save on travel expenses , join a group or join-in tours in Bangkok just like what we did.
• For cheap flights to Bangkok , book it several months in advance. Airfare tends to be pricey when your desired travel dates come nearer. It is best if you book it 3 to 5 months in advance. You could get more discounts by using Traveloka's weekly promo codes. Always check the "On-Going Promos" tab on their website or in the app to avail more discounts.
• To save on travel expenses, stay in hostels or budget hotels in Bangkok . There are many nice and decent budget hotels and hostels in Bangkok to choose from that will fit your budget.

BANGKOK TRAVEL BLOGS

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Day Tour from Bangkok - visiting a floating market is a must-do activity when in Thailand. I narrated here our experience joining a group tour to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
• Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok - this includes the top things to do, tourist spots and attractions, as well as where to eat in Ayutthaya.
• Ratchaburi Day Tour from Bangkok - another must-visit province near Bangkok is Ratchaburi. I shared here our experience on what are the top tourist spots and things to do in Ratchaburi. And of course, the must-try food!
• Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4 - here is my complete hotel review of Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4. This is one of the best hotels we've stayed at in Bangkok.

Are you ready to travel to Bangkok for the first time? I hope this Bangkok Budget Travel Guide 2024 for first-timers will help you in planning an unforgettable and amazing Thailand Adventure! Enjoy and have fun!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 22 comments :.

Hi, where did you go when you booked for a one full day charter?

Hi! Ask ko lang po if the immigration would ask for show money?

I'm not the one who made this blog, but I think they wouldn't ask for a show money. Just show your ticket and hotel accommodation (for first timers). It's the easiest way to pass the immigs. I hope this will help.

Usually nmn sa mga immigration pag group kayo they wont ask na... pero mas naghahanap sila ng accomodation just to make sure na hnd kayo mag tnt sa country nila. Mas kilalang hotel the better.

They said 10,000baht diba? Mga Php16,250.43 they said just in case they check at least u have already toavoid headaches.. 😁😁

Upon checking it's in PESO not BAHT :) Please read carefully

Sobrang helpful. Thank you!

Hi I'm a first timer traveller. It's actually my first time out of the country and me and my friend is just worrying about the requirements that the immigration might ask us. Though I have passport, ticket and hotel itirenary. I want to ask if for secondary documents, is the immigration will ask for a bank account? I don't have a personal bank account, what I have is an employer bank account (BDO) can I use this to show my bank statements? And what else you can recommend me to have as a supporting documents. I just really want to make things smoothly in my travel.. and btw thanks to the owner of this blog, this will help me and my friend a lot..😊

Immigration officials will always profile first time travellers especially those bound for Bangkok because the city is a trancient point and a stop over for those travelling to the Middle East. So expect that they would suspect you as someone who will be using BKK as a backdoor for employment in the Middle East. So in order to avoid hassles from Immigration guys, make sure to establish that you have a job to return to in Manila, a clear itinerary of your travel, hotel reservation and of course a return ticket. Just be confident in answering their questions and you should be fine.

Hi the last time I check Bank Statement is not necessary in the immigration part for the exit, especially if the country is visa free non the less bank statement usually need in applying for a visa. Just present your document(passport, hotel reservation and travel itinerary) and answer their few question.

can i get a pdf version of the itinerary?

Hello. Ask ko lang po. Visit ako Bangkok.Pwede ba akong magtravel to Siem reap from Bangkok then go back to bangkok again ?

Hi po ask ko lang po pag family kami mag travel 5 persons po how much po need namin na pocket money? Or dapat po per person pa din po ang pocket money? Thank you so much po🤗

If ever i am first time to travel in thailand can i avail the 1 month visa free?

Paano kung ofw at kakauwi lang.. Siyempre wala naman work dito sa pinas. Wala mapapakita na proof na may babalikan na work sa pinas.

Same balak ko din magbakasyon Sana . Pero di pa ko exit sa Saudi . Balik baksyon lang talaga

Hi, can you recommend an affordable hotel in BKK?

Our arrival is at DMK airport. Would you happen to know where we can buy BTS/rabbit card? (klook doesn’t offer a pick up point at DMK, only at BKK airport) Thank you in advance.

Kindly book the one that can be picked-up at the Klook counter at CentralWorld,

Hi!ask lang po, what if po 3 po kayong magkakaibigan na mag tatravel bangkok thailand, tapos puro first timer po kayong tatlo, hindi na po kayo dumaan sa agency para mas maka less ng gastusin, hindi ba kayo mah ooffload sa immagration?thanks po.

Pa follow up po-same situation- OCt 20 to 24 travel. DIY tour lang din po ano po tips para di ma off load

Hi ask ko lang . Balak Kasi namin magbakasyon sa Thailand. Pede ba magbakasyon sa iBang bansa kapag my contract kapa sa Saudi.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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Bangkok Travel Guide

The capital of Thailand, Bangkok has captivated visitors for centuries with a vibrant street life, elaborate royal palaces, and iconic Buddhist temples. There’s a healthy variety of sights to see in Bangkok, making it a unique destination suitable for every type of traveler on any type of budget. —Adam Groffman

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A first-timer's guide to exploring Bangkok: 5 handy tips

Updated : Apr 19, 2024, 21:20 IST

Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent place for culture vultures and party lovers, alike. If you are planning a your first Bangkok trip, here we are to help you make the most of your visit with five handy tips for first-timers exploring the city:

Master the art of Tuk-Tuk negotiation

Tuk-tuks, the iconic three-wheeled motorised rickshaws, are a quintessential mode of transportation in Bangkok. While they offer a convenient and thrilling way to navigate the city's bustling streets, it's essential to negotiate the fare before hopping aboard. Tuk-tuk drivers often quote inflated prices to unsuspecting tourists, so don't hesitate to haggle and settle on a reasonable fare before embarking on your journey.

Navigate the city's waterways

Bangkok's intricate network of canals, or khlongs, provides a unique perspective of the city's bustling neighborhoods and vibrant culture. Hop aboard a long-tail boat or take a leisurely ride on the public ferries to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions along the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Don't miss the chance to visit the bustling floating markets, where vendors sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and delectable street food from their boats.

Understand the street food culture

One of the best ways to experience the authentic flavors of Bangkok is through its street food. From savory pad Thai and aromatic tom yum soup to sweet mango sticky rice and crispy fried bananas, Bangkok's street vendors offer a plethora of tantalizing dishes at budget-friendly prices. Be adventurous and sample local delicacies from the numerous food stalls lining the streets, but remember to choose vendors with high turnover and freshly prepared food to avoid stomach issues.

Experience the nightlife

Bangkok comes alive after dark, offering a diverse array of nightlife experiences to suit every taste. From rooftop bars with panoramic city views and lively night markets buzzing with activity to vibrant street-side eateries and pulsating nightclubs, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the bustling nightlife districts of Sukhumvit, Silom, and Khao San Road, and immerse yourself in Bangkok's electrifying after-hours scene.

Visit the Grand Palace and temples

No visit to Bangkok is complete without exploring its magnificent temples and royal palaces. The Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, is a must-see attraction showcasing exquisite Thai architecture and intricate detailing. Nearby, Wat Pho houses the colossal Reclining Buddha, while Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. Remember to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting these sacred sites.

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Bangkok is one of the most colourful cities in the world! The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is home to some stunning temples, amazing nightclubs and warm people. This dynamic city is an excellent ...

Passing Thru Travel

Exploring Bangkok: A One-Day Guide for American Travelers

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Traveler Profile: Katie, UK

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Time of Year: A weekend in Febraury

Travel Goals: Magic, history, adventure, photography and market food

A country girl at heart, a trip to the city is always a frenetic adventure. Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a vibrant metropolis known for its unique blend of historical richness and modern dynamism. As the political, economic, and cultural heart of Thailand, Bangkok is home to over eight million residents and serves as a hub for travel in Southeast Asia. The city’s landscape is marked by a juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers and sacred temples, bustling street markets, and expansive green spaces, reflecting its diverse identity. Founded in 1782 by King Rama I, Bangkok has evolved from a modest trading post to a global city, attracting millions of visitors each year with its renowned hospitality, culinary excellence, and cultural heritage.

Breakfast at White Dragon Cafe & Bistro

Image Credit: Shutterstock / vm2002

WHITE Dragon Cafe & Bistro is an excellent destination for breakfast and a stone’s throw from the Grand Palace. Its chefs combine quality ingredients with impeccable service in a really refined setting. The establishment prides itself on a diverse menu catering to various tastes, featuring traditional and contemporary dishes. From freshly baked pastries and artisanal breads to gourmet omelets and health-conscious options, each dish is prepared with an emphasis on flavor, nutrition, and presentation. The cafe’s interior has elegant decor and comfortable seating, creating an inviting atmosphere for casual breakfast meetings and leisurely morning repasts.

Morning at the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

Image Credit: Shutterstock / SOUTHERNTraveler

The Grand Palace’s intricate architecture and historical significance showcase Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. As the former residence of the Kings of Siam, the palace complex is adorned with majestic structures and sacred sites, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which houses a revered Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade. A short walk away, Wat Pho, known for its giant reclining Buddha and status as a traditional Thai massage and medicine center, offers a serene and spiritually enriching experience. Visitors should dress respectfully and be prepared for the tropical climate, often resulting in a warm and humid morning of exploration.

Boat Ride on the Chao Phraya River

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mongkolp

A boat ride on the Chao Phraya River offers a unique vantage point of Bangkok, showcasing the city’s modern skyline juxtaposition against the backdrop of its traditional riverside communities. The river, often called the ‘River of Kings,’ is a vital artery shaping the city’s landscape and history. Various boat services, including express boats and private long-tail boats, provide an array of options for visitors to navigate the waters. This journey offers a respite from Bangkok’s bustling streets and serves as a gateway to several key attractions along the riverbanks, such as the iconic Wat Arun and the Pak Khlong Talat flower market.

Lunch at a Street Food Market

Image Credit: Shutterstock / MC_Noppadol

Bangkok’s street food scene is bursting with flavors and aromas, offering an authentic taste of Thai cuisine. The city’s street food markets are a culinary adventure, from sizzling pad Thai to aromatic bowls of boat noodles. One of the best places to indulge in these delights is at a local market, where you can sample many different dishes. The experience is not just about the food but also about the hustle and bustle atmosphere, where chefs masterfully prepare meals over open flames, and locals haggle over prices.

Afternoon Shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market

Image Credit: Shutterstock / elwynn

Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, offers an unparalleled shopping experience with over 8,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts, antiques, plants and home accessories. Navigating the maze-like alleys of Chatuchak can be overwhelming but also rewarding as you uncover unique finds and haggle for the best prices. The market is a microcosm of Bangkok’s diverse culture, showcasing its people’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Dinner and Cocktails at the Siam

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Brostock

After spending the day navigating the bustling streets of Bangkok, unwind with a relaxing bath at your hotel before heading to CHON Thai Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant, known for its expertly balanced Thai dishes, uses only the freshest local ingredients to honor traditional Thai flavors. Set in genuine Thai teak wood houses and infused with local culture, CHON provides a memorable dining experience.

Post-dinner, visit THE PIER for cocktails against the backdrop of the Chao Phraya River. The Siam’s location by the river is ideal for enjoying the evening, especially as the sunset illuminates the water. The pier’s well-lit, spacious deck and private mooring offer a peaceful setting to end your day in Bangkok.

Overnight Accommodation at the Siam, Bangkok

Image Credit: Shutterstock / OSTILL is Franck Camhi

Nestled on the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River, The Siam sets a benchmark for luxury accommodation in Bangkok. This urban sanctuary, designed by acclaimed architect Bill Bensley, merges art deco elegance with traditional Thai architectural motifs. The Siam offers an exclusive retreat with private villas, suites, and a unique array of cultural and wellness experiences catering to discerning guests seeking a blend of luxury and authentic Thai culture.

One of the most unique experiences offered by The Siam is the opportunity to receive a Sak Yant tattoo, an ancient Thai tradition that is believed to provide protection and blessings to those who wear it. Sak Yant tattoos are traditionally applied by Buddhist monks or Ajarns (master tattooists) who use a bamboo needle to etch sacred geometrical designs and Pali script invocations into the skin. The Siam provides its guests with the rare chance to engage in this deeply spiritual experience within the comfort and privacy of the hotel, conducted by a respected Sak Yant master. This service offers insight into an ancient Thai tradition and allows guests to take part in a personal and spiritual journey, making their stay at The Siam truly unforgettable.

A Potted History of Bangkok

Image Credit: Shutterstock / cowardlion

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, has a rich history that spans over two centuries, evolving from a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century to the vibrant, sprawling metropolis it is today. Officially known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Bangkok was established as the capital of Thailand by King Rama I in 1782, following the fall of Ayutthaya to Burmese invaders. The king sought to create a capital that would be both a political and cultural center and a defensive stronghold against future invasions.

The city’s strategic location on the banks of the Chao Phraya River contributed to its rapid growth and significance as a hub for international trade, attracting merchants from around the world. Bangkok’s infrastructure and urban landscape began to transform significantly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries under the reign of King Rama IV and King Rama V. These monarchs introduced modernization efforts that included the construction of roads, railways, and the introduction of electricity, which propelled Bangkok into a new era of development.

The 20th century saw further expansion and modernization, with Bangkok becoming Thailand’s political, economic, and cultural heart. The city played a significant role during World War II, and in the post-war era, it continued to grow rapidly due to industrialization and urbanization. This period also marked the beginning of significant migration from rural areas to Bangkok, further boosting the city’s population and diversity.

Bangkok has faced political instability, infrastructure strain, and environmental issues in recent decades. Despite these challenges, it has continued to thrive as a major tourist destination known for its historic sites, vibrant street life, and culinary scene. The city’s resilience and dynamic culture have made it an iconic symbol of Thailand’s rich heritage and its ongoing journey towards modernity and global relevance.

Today, Bangkok highlights Thailand’s ability to blend tradition with modernity, maintaining its historical sites and cultural heritage while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

The People of Bangkok

Image Credit: Shutterstock / FUN FUN PHOTO

The people of Bangkok, known as Bangkokians, are a diverse and dynamic population that reflects the city’s status as Thailand’s cultural, economic, and political heart. With a population exceeding 10 million, Bangkok is a melting pot of ethnicities, including a majority of Thai nationals alongside significant Chinese, Indian, and other minority communities. This diversity results from the city’s historical role as a trading hub and its ongoing economic opportunities, which continue to attract people from across Thailand and worldwide.

Bangkokians are known for their hospitality and the cultural value of “sanuk,” which emphasizes the importance of finding joy and pleasure in all activities. This principle is evident in the city’s vibrant street life, bustling markets, and lively festivals. Despite the rapid urbanization and modernization that Bangkok has undergone, its residents maintain a strong connection to traditional Thai values and practices, including Buddhism, which plays a central role in daily life and influences social behavior and community relations.

The city’s workforce is highly diverse, encompassing sectors from finance and business to manufacturing and services. Bangkok is also home to many entrepreneurs and creatives, contributing to its reputation as a regional hub for innovation and the arts. Education and literacy rates are high, reflecting the city’s access to educational institutions and its role as a center for higher learning and research.

Social and economic disparities exist within Bangkok, with wealthier districts showcasing modern skyscrapers and luxury malls, while poorer neighborhoods and informal settlements highlight the city’s challenges with inequality and urban poverty. Bangkokians ingeniously navigate these disparities, contributing to a dynamic, constantly evolving urban culture.

The people of Bangkok are at the heart of the city’s identity, embodying a blend of traditional Thai culture and modernity. Their warmth, resilience, and cultural richness make Bangkok a place of historical and architectural significance and a lively, welcoming community for visitors and new residents alike.

When to Travel

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Prostock-studio

The optimal time to visit Bangkok is between November and February, during the dry season when the city experiences cooler temperatures and lower humidity. This period offers the most comfortable climate for exploring Bangkok’s outdoor attractions and vibrant street life. March to May sees the hot season, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C, while June to October marks the rainy season, characterized by heavy showers that can affect travel plans.

How to Get There

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pikoso.kz

Bangkok is accessible via two main airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Suvarnabhumi Airport serves as the primary gateway for international travelers and is one of Southeast Asia’s major aviation hubs, offering flights from and to destinations around the world. Don Mueang Airport primarily handles low-cost carriers and domestic flights. From either airport, visitors can reach the city center through various transportation options, including taxis, airport rail links (only from Suvarnabhumi Airport), buses, and private car services. Additionally, Bangkok is well-connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from other parts of Thailand and neighboring countries.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / AofLine

A day exploring Bangkok, from its lively markets to historical landmarks, showcases the city’s dynamic blend of old and new. The experience of moving through crowded markets, filled with a mix of traditional and contemporary goods, to the peaceful environments of ancient temples highlights Bangkok’s complex identity. Whether engaging in commerce or reflecting on history, each experience affords an understanding of Bangkok’s role as a city that bridges past and present. This exploration deepens the visitor’s appreciation for Bangkok’s culture and history and showcases its ongoing evolution. Ultimately, a day in Bangkok offers a clear view into the city’s vibrant life and the rich tapestry of its community, leaving a lasting impression on those who navigate its streets.

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Top 10 Bangkok Dinner Cruises | 2024 Chao Phraya River Cruise Guide

Explore Bangkok's best 10 buffet dinner cruises.  Unprecedented dining experience along Bangkok's iconic scene of Chao Phraya River at the cheapest price.  Latest 2024 buffet promotions. Check up-to-date available tables here.

Flash Sale! Use Promo Code "FLASH5" for a 5% discount. Book now while the code lasts!

Click here for more comprehensive dinner cruise guide .

The Opulence - Bangkok's Finest Dinner Cruise

VIVA Alangka Dinner Cruise from ASIATIQUE / Terminal 21 Rama 3

White Orchid River Cruise (ASIATIQUE) - Twilight 5 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

The dinner cruises will be reopened from 6 August 2021 on weekends. Currently, many cruises are offering their best pre-opening promotions. You can see the reopen date and the promotion of each cruise from Click2GoThailand.com here

• Pier location
• Rooftop table (for the best view)
• The available table on the date
• Price and promotion
• Get the best discount price
• Reserve the best table like the one next to the river

Michelin Guide Thailand expands to Chon Buri

PUBLISHED : 25 Apr 2024 at 04:00

NEWSPAPER SECTION: Life

Travellers will have more dining options as Michelin Guide Thailand 2025 is set to feature the coastal province of Chon Buri to highlight Thailand's diverse culinary landscapes. Last year, the guide expanded its list to include Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani and Udon Thani, as well as Koh Samui and Surat Thani this year.

This newest addition to the Michelin Guide Thailand map will provide inspiration for both gourmets and travellers to explore the culinary scene in different provinces and territories across the country.

Promoting itself as one of the world's best gastronomic tourism destinations, this move supports the government's national soft-power strategy focusing on food, fashion, film, fight, and festival so that Thailand can compete in tourism.

A 80km drive from Bangkok, Chon Buri is a popular holiday destination among Bangkokians and foreign tourists seeking an escape from hectic schedules to experience local traditions and fresh seafood. It's also a haven for beach lovers with renowned destinations such as Bang Saen, Pattaya and Koh Lan.

"Chon Buri has enough to keep travellers occupied during their stay -- beautiful beaches, peaceful temples, local cultural performances, varied festival activities, diverse eateries, stalls and nightlife. The fresh seafood, unique local delicacies and beachfront dining experiences are also among other features. All these make Chon Buri a lively tourist destination," said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides.

Visit guide.michelin.com .

Spring K-Royal Culture Festival kicks off in Seoul

To mark its 10th anniversary, the Spring K-Royal Culture Festival will return to Seoul's historic royal palaces -- Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung and Gyeonghuigung -- and Jongmyo Shrine from Saturday to May 5.

In collaboration with the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation, this year's opening ceremony is designed under the "Love For The People" theme to reimagine King Sejong the Great's historic proclamation of the Hunminjeongeum script in 1446.

Gyeongbokgung Palace will take visitors back to the glorious days of the Joseon Dynasty and showcase royal court customs through immersive activities. From May 1-5, the "Time Travel, King Sejong" programme will offer a glimpse into court life under the reign of King Sejong the Great, while the "Royal Music Concert - Harmony Of 100 Court Musicians' Song In Peaceful Times" will take place between May 4 and 5.

The historic Geunjeongjeon Hall presents Palace Musical - Sejong, 1446 from April 28-30 to portray King Sejong's pivotal role in creating the Korean alphabet. At the same time, Gyeongbokgung Heungnyemun Square is turned into a vibrant K-heritage market offering traditional crafts and cultural products amidst a lively atmosphere.

Deoksugung Palace will conduct the engaging "Royal Hobby Club" programme and a talk show that delves into the palace's history during the Japanese colonial era. Families can continue their journey to Gyeonghuigung Palace and enjoy a variety of educational activities, exhibitions and performances tailored to children.

Changgyeonggung Palace will serve as a playground for the Children's K-Royal Culture Festival, where families can participate in interactive activities and the enchanting "Changgyeonggung Night Tour - Water Splendour" programme.

Visit www.chf.or.kr .

Cosi Vientiane Nam Phu offers discounts

To celebrate its opening, Cosi Vientiane Nam Phu is offering an exclusive 30% discount plus US$3 (110 baht) in daily food and drink credit for up to two guests for bookings and stays from now until July 31. CentaraThe1 members will receive an extra 15% on-top discount and the opportunity to earn triple points for future stays at Centara Hotels & Resorts worldwide.

Opened last month, this brand-new hotel boasts a fresh lifestyle, eco-friendly rooms which range in sizes from 18m² to 39m², a serene rooftop pool and a buzzing social hub for round-the-clock action.

Visit centarahotelsresorts.com .

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