travel guide in bkk

2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

Is Bangkok safe?

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

What is the power socket used in bangkok.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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• We had 2 families (4 adults, 4 teens) and booked this for our only day in Bangkok. We had a fantastic experience with our guide Air. The van transport was impressive, each time we returned to the van we had cold water and fresh cold towels. City traffic was busy, but Air used the time to offer information and answer all our questions. The flower and vegetable market was impressive, as were all the temples (where we never waited in line!). Even our long-tail boat ride was no waiting. Air had everything planned out, but was able to make some modifications on the fly. We had a fantastic lunch at the Navy Club, aided by Air who helped us communicate with staff. Overall, a fantastic day, and we were very impressed with Air and all the details. read more read less Bangkok Highlights tour by minivan Jon 22 Jun 2024
• Air was absolutely amazing! This was my first time to Thailand and she made our tour truly a beautiful experience. Gave history and insight on the culture/background and taught us some helpful Thai words. Throughout the tour, she happily checked in with us and how we were feeling, provided the best recommendations for food and all the while had the most beautiful spirit. By far, the best service ever received and well worth every penny and would do it again! Lastly our driver A just as phenomenal on getting us to all our destinations safely. Highly recommend the Train market, Café, floating market and visit the home that makes coconut sugar and ask for the best Thai Massages! You will not regret it, was literally healing. read more read less Floating markets and Bangkok tour Demi F. 03 Jun 2024
• We had an amazing tour with Petch, she was informative and very knowledgeable which made our time with her an absolute pleasure. We were collected from our hotel on time in an air conditioned comfortable mini bus and our driver was excellent, cold water and refreshing cold towels were provided throughout the day. All of the temples we visited were so interesting and Ayutthaya was a wonderful place to visit. The lunch was at an authentic Thai restaurant with plenty of local people enjoying their weekend and the food was delicious. Would fully recommend both BKK Tours and our amazing guide Petch. read more read less Historical Ayutthaya tour Paul a. 29 Mar 2024

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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.

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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.

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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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:

Bangkok accommodation.

Top 10 Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Budget Hotels

Boutique Hotels

Design Hotels

Central Hotels

Hotels with Pool

Hotels with Views

Riverfront Hotels

Romantic Hotels

Family-Friendly Hotels

Airport Hotels

Bangkok Attractions

Top 10 Temples

Floating Markets

River Cruises

Parks & Gardens

Romantic Bangkok

Massages & Spas

Gay/LGBT Bangkok

Bangkok Transportation

Getting Around

Airport Transportation

Bangkok Neighborhoods

Siam & Ratchaprasong

Silom & Riverside

Covid-19 Pandemic in Bangkok and Thailand - Travel Advisory

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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Under the shadow of the Bangkok’s skyscrapers you’ll find a heady mix of chaos and refinement, of frenetic markets, snail’s-pace traffic jams and hushed golden temples, of dispiriting, zombie-like sex shows and early-morning alms-giving ceremonies. A first-time visitor to Bangkok will be blown away by the sights, sounds and smells bursting from the city. Return travellers come back to stay in the capital for that very same reason.

Places to visit in Bangkok

Top things to do in bangkok, best time to visit bangkok, where to stay in bangkok, where to eat in bangkok, traditional massage and spas in bangkok, going out in bangkok, bangkok travel advice, a brief history of bangkok, around bangkok.

One way or another, the place is sure to get under your skin. With our Bangkok travel guide we’re confident you’ll enjoy every challenge Thailand’s capital city throws at you.

Travel ideas for Thailand, created by local experts

Chiang Mai Safari Adventure

The perfect trip for some family fun and adventure, lovely Chiang Mai with its lush valleys and national parks ticks all the boxes. Expect majestic cliff-top temples, sprawling national parks and exciting safari adventures.

Thailand's Islands and Highlands

Experience the best of Thailand as you discover glitzy Bangkok's temples, markets and waterways. Compare the bustling, lively capital with the glorious rolling hills and lush interior of mountainous Chiang Mai before heading south to beach bliss and unexpected cultural delights in hedonistic Phuket.

Thailand Discovery

A great way to discover Thailand, take in the Central Plain and Bangkok, the north with Chiang Mai and the south at the lively resort of Phuket.

Bangkok-Pattaya Explorer

The perfect trip for adventurers, sun seekers and lovers of island life: take in cosmopolitan Bangkok’s wats or temples, street markets and waterways. Witness the excitement of Bangkok before heading to Thailand’s east coast for island-hopping in the sunshine.

Pattaya Sun

The sandy beaches and tiny offshore islands, dense forests and hidden waterfalls are a natural draw to Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. Pattaya abounds with activities – from watersports to international-standard golf courses.

Chiang Mai Sustainable Trails

Chiang Mai offers a balmy escape from Bangkok’s humidity. Regarded as the cultural heart of the country, come here for nature, lovely Lanna-style temples, museums and the infamous night bazaar.

Ratanakosin

Any Bangkok city guide worth their salt will tell you that the place to start is Ratanakosin, the royal island on the east bank of the Chao Phraya, where the city’s most important and extravagant sights are located.

They include: the Grand Palace and adjoining royal temple, Wat Phra Kaeo; the Wang Na (Palace of the Second King), now the National Museum; Wat Pho, which predates the capital’s founding; Wat Mahathat, the most important centre of Buddhist learning in Southeast Asia; the National Theatre; the National Gallery; and Thammasat and Silpakorn universities.

Banglamphu and the Democracy Monument area

Immediately north of Ratanakosin, Banglamphu’s most notorious attraction is Thanon Khao San, a tiny sliver of a road built over a canal in 1892, whose multiple guesthouses and buzzing, budget-minded nightlife have made it an unmissable way-station for travellers through Southeast Asia.

There is plenty of cultural interest too, in a medley of idiosyncratic temples within a few blocks of nearby landmark Democracy Monument, and in the typical Bangkok neighbourhoods that connect them, many of which still feel charmingly old-fashioned.

Chinatown and Pahurat

When the newly crowned Rama I decided to move his capital across to the east bank of the river in 1782, the Chinese community living on the proposed site of his palace was obliged to relocate downriver, to the Sampeng area.

Two centuries on, Chinatown has grown into the country’s largest Chinese district, a sprawl of narrow alleyways, temples and shophouses packed between Charoen Krung (New Road) and the river.

For fifteen years between the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 and the founding of Bangkok in 1782, the west-bank town of Thonburi stood in as the Thai capital.

Its time in the spotlight was too brief for the building of the fine monuments and temples, but some of its centuries-old canals, which once transported everyone and everything, have endured. It is these and the ways of life that depend on them that constitute Thonburi’s main attractions.

The most popular way to explore these old neighbourhoods is by boat, but joining a bicycle tour of the older neighbourhoods is also very rewarding.

The spacious, leafy area known as Dusit has been a royal district since the reign of Rama V, King Chulalongkorn (1860–1910). The first Thai monarch to visit Europe, Rama V returned with radical plans for the modernisation of his capital, the fruits of which are most visible in Dusit, notably at Vimanmek Palace and Wat Benjamabophit, the so-called “Marble Temple”.

Dusit is also the venue for the spectacular annual Trooping the Colour, when hundreds of Royal Guards demonstrate their allegiance to the king by parading around Royal Plaza. Across from Chitrlada Palace, Dusit Zoo makes a pleasant enough place to take the kids.

Downtown Bangkok

Downtown Bangkok is central to the colossal expanse of Bangkok as a whole, but rather peripheral in a sightseer’s perception of the city. In this modern high-rise area, you’ll find the main shopping centres around Siam Square.

Travel further east, you’ll find yet more shopping malls around the noisy and glittering Erawan Shrine, where Rama I becomes Thanon Ploenchit, an intersection known as Ratchaprasong. It’s possible to stroll in peace above the cracked pavements, noise and fumes of Thanon Rama I, by using the elevated walkway that runs beneath the Skytrain lines.

The city outskirts

A handful of places that make pleasant half-day escapes, principally Chatuchak Weekend Market, the cultural theme-park of Muang Boran, the upstream town of Nonthaburi and the tranquil artificial island of Ko Kred.

Thinking of travelling to Bangkok? Start planning by learning about how to get to Thailand .

A Bangkok city guide boiled down into nine brilliant things to do

• The Grand Palace

Admire the Reclining Buddha and the lavish architecture, and leave time for a relaxing massage.

The National Museum

The central repository of the country’s artistic riches.

Thanon Khao San

Legendary hangout for Southeast Asia backpackers; the place for cheap sleeps, baggy trousers and tall tales.

The canals of Thonburi

See the Bangkok of yesteryear on a touristy but memorable longtail-boat ride.

• Jim Thompson's House - An elegant Thai design classic, can be discovered on a guided tour including a weaving community visit.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Eight thousand open-air stalls selling everything from triangular pillows to secondhand Levis.

63rd-floor sundowner

Fine cocktails and jaw-dropping views, especially at sunset, at The Sky Bar and Distil.

• Thai boxing - Witness a fight in style with a VIP ticket to Rajadamnern Stadium or try it yourself by taking a class .

The climate of most of Thailand is governed by three seasons: rainy (roughly May–Oct), caused by the southwest monsoon; cool (Nov–Feb); and hot (March–May).

The cool season is the most clement time to visit Bangkok, although temperatures can still reach a broiling 30°C in the middle of the day. Bear in mind, however, that it’s also the busiest season, so forward planning is essential.

If your time in Bangkok is limited, you should think carefully about what you want to do in the city before deciding which part of town to stay in. Traffic jams are so appalling here that easy access to Skytrain, subway or river transport can be crucial.

In this travel guide on where to stay in Bangkok , we explore its various districts, picking out accommodation options that are notable in one way or another, from the best value for money to those with the prettiest views.

As you’d expect, nowhere in Thailand can compete with Bangkok’s diversity when it comes to food: it boasts an astonishing fifty thousand places to eat, almost one for every hundred citizens.

The best gourmet restaurants in the country operate from the downtown districts, proffering wonderful royal, traditional and regional cuisines that definitely merit a visit.

At the lower end of the price scale, one-dish meals from around the country are rustled up at the food courts of shopping centres and department stores, as well as at night markets and street stalls, which are so numerous in Bangkok that we can only flag the most promising areas.

Chinatown naturally rates as the most authentic district for pure Chinese food; likewise neighbouring Pahurat, the capital’s Indian enclave, is best for unadulterated Indian dishes.

From the best pad thais to eating insects , here’s the lowdown on where to eat in Bangkok .

Thai cookery classes in Bangkok

8/91 Soi 54, Thanon Ngam Wongwan. Thorough, four-hour classes in a quiet, suburban house in northern Bangkok. B2200, including transfers from central hotels. Closed Sun.

233 Thanon Sathorn Tai (BTS Surasak). In a grand building, courses that range from B3300 for a half-day to a five-day private course for professional chefs for B90,000.

Klong Toey. A chance to experience the slums of Klong Toey and spend a morning learning to cook. B1200, including a market tour and free transfers from next to Phrom Pong BTS station. Closed Sun.

You can also book a Thai cooking class that includes a trip to Bangkok's largest market, Khlong Toei, to choose and buy your own ingredients before cooking them up.

Bangkok has a good reputation for shopping, particularly for antiques, gems, contemporary interior design and fashions, where the range and quality are streets ahead of other Thai cities. Silk and handicrafts are good buys too, though shopping for these in Chiang Mai has many advantages. As always, watch out for fakes: cut glass masquerading as precious stones, old, damaged goods being passed off as antiques, counterfeit designer clothes and accessories, pirated CDs and DVDs, even mocked-up international driver’s licences (though Thai travel agents and other organizations aren’t that easily fooled).

Downtown is full of smart, multi-storey shopping plazas like Siam Centre, Siam Paragon and Central World on Thanon Rama I and Emporium on Thanon Sukhumvit, which is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s fashion stores, as well as designer lifestyle goods and bookshops. The plazas tend to be pleasantly air-conditioned and thronging with trendy young Thais, but don’t hold much interest for tourists unless you happen to be looking for a new outfit.

Shopping centres, department stores and tourist-oriented shops in the city keep late hours, opening daily at 10 or 11am and closing at about 9pm; many small, upmarket boutiques, for example along Thanon Charoen Krung and Thanon Silom, close on Sundays, one or two even on Saturdays. Monday is meant to be no-street-vendor day throughout Bangkok, a chance for the pavements to get cleaned and for pedestrians to finally see where they’re going, but plenty of stalls manage to flout the rule.

If you're into shopping but not that much into haggling or doing the research, you can take a private driver and guide to take you to the best malls and plazas in Bangkok. The guide will help you haggle and find the best deals for your desired items and having a private car means never having to worry about dragging your shopping bags around the public transport.

Shopping for everyday stuff

You’re most likely to find useful everyday items in one of the city’s numerous department stores: seven-storey Central Chidlom on Thanon Ploenchit (daily 10am–10pm), which boasts handy services like watch-, garment- and shoe-repair booths as well as a huge product selection (including large sizes), is probably the city’s best. For children’s stuff, Central Chidlom also has a branch of Mothercare, as do the Emporium and Siam Paragon shopping centres. Meanwhile, the British chain of pharmacies, Boots the Chemist, has scores of branches across the city, including on Thanon Khao San, in Siam Paragon, in Central World, in Emporium and a late-night branch at the Thanon Suriwong end of Patpong 1.

The best place to buy anything to do with mobile phones is the scores of small booths on the third floor of Mah Boon Krong (MBK) Shopping Centre at the Rama I/Phrayathai intersection. For computer hardware and genuine and pirated software, as well as digital cameras, Panthip Plaza, at 604/3 Thanon Phetchaburi, is the best place; it’s slightly off the main shopping routes, but handy for Khlong Saen Saeb boat stop Tha Pratunam, or a longer walk from BTS Ratchathevi. Mac-heads are catered for here, including authorized resellers, and there are dozens of repair and secondhand booths, especially towards the back of the shopping centre and on the upper floors.

Having clothes tailor-made

Bangkok can be an excellent place to get tailor-made suits, dresses, shirts and trousers at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the West. Tailors here can copy a sample brought from home and will also work from any photographs you can provide; most also carry a good selection of catalogues. The bad news is that many tourist-oriented tailors aren’t terribly good, often attempting to get away with poor work and shoddy materials (and sometimes trying to delay delivery until just before you leave the city, so that you don’t have time to complain). However, with a little effort and thought, both men and women can get some fantastic clothes made to measure.

Choosing a tailor can be tricky, and unless you’re particularly knowledgeable about material, shopping around won’t necessarily tell you much. However, don’t make a decision wholly on prices quoted – picking a tailor simply because they’re the cheapest usually leads to poor work, and cheap suits don’t last. Special deals offering two suits, two shirts, two ties and a kimono for US$99 should be left well alone. Above all, ignore recommendations by anyone with a vested interest in bringing your custom to a particular shop.

Prices vary widely depending on material and the tailor’s skill. As a very rough guide, for labour alone expect to pay B5000–6000 for a two-piece suit, though some tailors will charge rather more (check whether or not the price you’re quoted includes the lining). For middling material, expect to pay about B3000–5000, or anything up to B20,000 for top-class cloth. With the exception of silk, local materials are frequently of poor quality and for suits in particular you’re far better off using English or Italian cloth. Most tailors stock both imported and local fabrics, but bringing your own from home can work out significantly cheaper.

Give yourself as much time as possible. For suits, insist on two fittings. Most good tailors require around three days for a suit (some require ten days or more), although a few have enough staff to produce good work in a day or two. The more detail you can give the tailor the better. As well as deciding on the obvious features such as single- or double-breasted and number of buttons, think about the width of lapels, style of trousers, whether you want the jacket with vents or not, and so forth. Specifying factors like this will make all the difference to whether you’re happy with your suit, so it’s worth discussing them with the tailor; a good tailor should be able to give good advice. Finally, don’t be afraid to be an awkward customer until you’re completely happy with the finished product – after all, the whole point of getting clothes tailor-made is to get exactly what you want.

Gem scams are so common in Bangkok that TAT has published a brochure about it and there are several websites on the subject, including the very informative w2bangkok.com/2bangkok-scams-sapphire.html, which describes typical scams in detail. Never buy anything through a tout or from any shop recommended by a “government official”/“student”/“businessperson”/tuk-tuk driver who just happens to engage you in conversation on the street, and note that there are no government jewellery shops, despite any information you may be given to the contrary, and no special government promotions or sales on gems.

The basic scam is to charge a lot more than what the gem is worth based on its carat weight – at the very least, get it tested on the spot, ask for a written guarantee and receipt. Don’t even consider buying gems in bulk to sell at a supposedly vast profit elsewhere: many a gullible traveller has invested thousands of dollars on a handful of worthless multicoloured stones, believing the vendor’s reassurance that the goods will fetch at least a hundred percent more when resold at home.

If you’re determined to buy precious stones, check that the shop is a member of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, by visiting their website which has a directory of members (w thaigemjewelry.or.th ). To be doubly sure, you may want to seek out shops that also belong to the TGJTA’s Jewel Fest Club (wjewelfest.com), which guarantees quality and will offer refunds; see their website for a directory of members.

Thai massage sessions and courses are held most famously at Wat Pho, while luxurious and indulgent spa and massage treatments are available at many posh hotels across the city, as well as at the following stand-alone places.

Divana Massage and Spa 7 Soi 25, Thanon Sukhumvit t 02 661 6784, w divanaspa.com; map. Delightful spa serving up Thai massages (100min for B1150), foot, aromatherapy and herbal massages, as well as facials and Ayurvedic treatments. Mon–Fri 11am–11pm, Sat & Sun 10am–11pm.

Nicolie Sun Square, a small shopping arcade on the south side of Thanon Silom between soi 21 and 23 t 02 233 6957, w nicolie-th.com ; map. Superb Thai (B1600/90min) and other massages, as well as facials and scrubs, in a soothing environment decorated with Asian objets d’art. Daily 11am–10pm.

Pian’s Soi Susie Pub, which runs between the east end of Thanon Khao San and Thanon Ram Bhuttri t 02 629 0924; map. Uninvitingly clinical-looking but highly rated a/c massage centre, offering Thai massages (B200/hr) as well as foot, oil and herbal massages; you can also study Thai massage here. Daily 7.30am–12.30am.

Returning visitors to Bangkok will notice that its drinking and nightlife scene has thoroughly grown up in the past ten years, leaving notorious Patpong – and its neon-light sex bars – behind. Visit Bangkok now and you’ll find it offers everything from ‘illegal’ microbreweries (strictly speaking small-batch brewing is verboten) and rooftop cocktail bars to achingly cool clubs and dance bars, hosting world-class DJs.

Drinking and nightlife

The high-concept bars of Sukhumvit and the lively, teeming venues of Banglamphu, in particular, pull in the style-conscious cream of Thai youth and are tempting an increasing number of travellers to stuff their party gear into their rucksacks. During the cool season (Nov–Feb), an evening out at one of the seasonal beer gardens is a pleasant way of soaking up the urban atmosphere (and the traffic fumes). You’ll find them in hotel forecourts or sprawled in front of dozens of shopping centres all over the city, most notably Central World Plaza.

Among the city’s club nights , look out for the interesting regular events organized by Zudrangma Record Store at venues such as Cosmic Café , which mix up dance music from all around Thailand and from all over the world. Getting back to your lodgings should be no problem in the small hours: many bus routes run a (reduced) service throughout the night, and tuk-tuks and taxis are always at hand – though it’s probably best for unaccompanied women to avoid using tuk-tuks late at night.

As long as you keep your wits about you, you shouldn’t encounter much trouble in Thailand. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are two of the main problems, but the most common cause for concern is the number of con-artists who dupe gullible tourists into parting with their cash.

Personal safety

On any bus, private or government, and on any train journey, never keep anything of value in luggage that is stored out of your sight and be wary of accepting food and drink from fellow passengers as it may be drugged.

Drinks can also be spiked in bars and clubs; at full moon parties on Ko Pha Ngan this has led to sexual assaults against farang women, while prostitutes sometimes spike drinks so they can steal from their victim’s room.

Gay and lesbian Bangkok

Buddhist tolerance and a national abhorrence of confrontation and victimisation combine to make Thai society relatively tolerant of homosexuality, if not exactly positive about same-sex relationships.

Although excessively physical displays of affection are frowned upon for both hetero-sexuals and homosexuals, Western gay couples should get no hassle about being seen together in public.

Thailand’s gay scene is mainly focused on mainstream venues like karaoke bars, restaurants, massage parlours, gyms, saunas and escort agencies. The bars, clubs and café-restaurants located around the east end of Thanon Silom and especially in the narrow alleys of Soi 2 and Soi 4, are the most notable of Bangkok’s gay nightlife venues.

Thailand’s sex industry

More than a thousand sex-related businesses operate in the city, but the gaudy neon fleshpots of Patpong and Sukhumvit’s Soi Nana and Soi Cowboy give a misleading impression of an activity that is deeply rooted in Thai culture. The overwhelming majority of Thailand’s prostitutes of both sexes (estimated at anywhere up to 700,000) work with Thai men, not farangs (Europeans).

The farang sex industry in Bangkok is a relatively new development, having started during the Vietnam War, when the American military set up seven bases around Thailand. Sex tourism has since grown to become an established part of the Thai economy.

Despite its ubiquity, prostitution has been illegal in Thailand since 1960, but sex-industry bosses easily circumvent the law by registering their establishments as clubs, karaoke bars or massage parlours, and making payoffs.

Inevitably, child prostitution is a significant issue in Thailand, but NGOs such as ECPAT say numbers have declined over the last decade, due to zero-tolerance and awareness campaigns.

Bangkok is a relatively young capital, established in 1782 after the Burmese sacked Ayutthaya, the former capital. A temporary base was set up on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, in what is now Thonburi, before work started on the more defensible east bank.

The first king of the new dynasty, Rama I, built his palace at Ratanakosin, within a defensive ring of two (later expanded to three) canals, and this remains the city’s spiritual heart. This remains the best place to start your exploration, where the city’s most important and extravagant sights are located.

Initially, Bangkok was largely amphibious: only the temples and royal palaces were built on dry land, while ordinary residences floated on thick bamboo rafts on the river and canals.

A major shift in emphasis came in the second half of the nineteenth century, first under Rama IV (1851–68), who as part of his effort to restyle the capital along European lines built Bangkok’s first roads.

Modern Bangkok

Since World War II, and especially from the mid-1960s onwards, Bangkok has seen an explosion of modernisation. Most of the canals have been filled in, replaced by endless rows of cheap, functional concrete shophouses, high-rises and housing estates.

The benefits of Thailand’s economic boom since the 1980s have been concentrated in Bangkok, attracting migration from all over the country and making the capital ever more dominant.

Every aspect of national life is centralised in the city, but the mayor of Bangkok is not granted enough power to deal with the ensuing problems, notably that of traffic.

The Skytrain and the subway have undoubtedly helped, but the competing systems don’t intersect properly or ticket jointly, and it’s left to ingenious, local solutions such as the Khlong Saen Saeb canal boats and side-street motorbike taxis to keep the city moving.

Visiting Bangkok's outskirts isn’t particularly popular as it harbours few attractions. However, there are a handful of places that make pleasant half-day excursions.

• Mainly Chatuchak Weekend Market (which has over 8,000 stalls), the cultural theme-park of Muang Boran (explore one of the world's largest museums with your private transport here ), the rather more esoteric Prasart Museum, the upstream town of Nonthaburi and the tranquil artificial island of Ko Kred.
• If you want to go a little further, visit Ayutthaya for the day: there's excellent private tours that leave from Bangkok and take in no fewer than five UNESCO -sited temples.
• If you’re travelling with children, you may want to visit the Mahanakhon SkyWalk where you can scale Bangkok’s highest building for panoramic views, or visit Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World to experience sharks and rays swimming over your head in the under-ocean tunnel.

Top image © Chatchai Somwat/Shutterstock

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Bangkok   Travel Guide

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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 lebua at State Tower

Best Things to Do in Bangkok

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

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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. 

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Bangkok Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip Guide for Reference

This Bangkok itinerary for 5 days is a collection of my favorite spots in Thailand’s capital , designed to give you a memorable trip in the city .

The itinerary I’m going to share with you is very clear and easy to follow. It highlights the best markets and must-see attractions in Bangkok .

Additionally, I’ll recommend the best routes to navigate this vibrant city . Trust me, with this guide, you’ll save time and avoid headaches when planning your journey .

So, are you ready? Let’s dive into my 5-day Bangkok plan to make your trip awesome. 😊

Explore the Best of Bangkok: Your Go-To Itinerary for a Wonderful Trip!

Day 1: grand palace, wat pho, wat arun, asiatique and cruise, day 2: platinum mall, pratunam market, bangkok aquarium, and jeh o chula, day 3: bangkok’s chatuchak, massage, mahanakhon skywalk, and more, day 4: safari world bangkok and chocolate ville, day 5: discover thailand’s top markets and visit the one ratchada, smart ways to save on bangkok attraction tickets, bangkok itinerary 5 days map, where to stay in bangkok, thailand sim card, bangkok transportation guide, related posts.

Start day 1 of your Bangkok itinerary by visiting the city’s stunning temples. Continue the excitement with a trip to a well-known open-air mall for a shopping spree.

Finish your day with a scenic river cruise, taking in the beautiful nighttime skyline.

• 9:00 AM: Grand Palace
• 11:30 AM: Wat Pho
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Baan Tha Tien or Pad Thai Kratong Thong
• 2:00 PM: Wat Arun
• 4:00 PM: Asiatique The Riverfront
• 6:30 PM: Having dinner at Rosewood Restaurant (Option 1)
• 7:45 PM: Calypso Cabaret Show
• 7:30 PM: Take the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise for your dinner (Option 2)

1. Grand Palace Bangkok – 2.5 hours (9:00 AM to 11:30 AM)

On the first morning of your itinerary , I’d suggest starting with the Grand Palace Bangkok .

This site was built way back in 1782 and used to be the home of the Thai King . Now, it is considered a major Bangkok tourist destination .

The architectural designs here are totally impressive . In fact, it’s very unique and majestic .

Take a stroll through its beautiful halls and gardens , and be sure to see the Emerald Buddha . As you explore, capture the many photo-worthy spots within the temple complex .

Take Note: To enter the palace, you need to wear a shirt with sleeves and pants that go down to your ankles. If you’re thinking of wearing a dress, just make sure it covers your shoulders and is ankle-length.

2. Wat Pho – 1.5 hours (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM)

Next, head over to Wat Pho , a renowned Buddhist temple of Bangkok .

This temple is visited by many travellers every year because of its unique features.

One of the highlights here is the huge reclining Buddha that is 46 metres long. It’s literally a gigantic golden figure , making it the largest Buddha statue in Thailand .

So, if you want to visit the highest grade among all other first-class temples, this should be part of your list.

3. Lunch at Baan Tha Tien or Pad Thai Kratong Thong – 1 hour (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

After visiting Wat Pho, a tasty lunch is just a short walk away. Both recommended restaurants are just around a 2-minute walk from the temple.

• Baan Tha Tien : This place offers a true taste of Thai cuisine in a cozy setting. Here, you can savor dishes like Tom Yam Kung and Thai-style fried rice. The prices range between 50 Baht and 120 Baht, making it very affordable.
• Pad Thai Kratong Thong : This spot is a haven for Thai food lovers. Dive into their signature Pad Thai priced at just 109 Baht. If you’re in the mood for something spicy and flavorful, the Tomyum Soup with Shrimp is a steal at 159 Baht. Also, don’t miss out on their Green Curry Soup with Chicken for 129 Baht.

Trust me, these nearby eateries will not only save you time but also provide a delicious culinary experience.

4. Wat Arun Bangkok – 2 hours (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

After enjoying your lunch, continue your Bangkok trip by exploring Wat Arun , often known as the “Temple of Dawn”. This is a very beautiful temple situated along the riverside .

There are plenty of gorgeous spots here , including the colourful spires that complement the water scenery . The religious items inside are also very impressive.

And of course, the architectural beauty of the temple is totally unique .

So, take your time and capture many picturesque photos . For sure, you will be in awe of the amazing photo choices.

5. Asiatique The Riverfront – 2.5 hours (4:00 PM to 6:30 PM)

Next on the itinerary is Asiatique Bangkok , a lively night market and entertainment spot by the river.

To be honest, this is one of my favourite night markets to go in Bangkok because of its incredible array of activities.

Start with some shopping; there are hundreds of boutique stalls selling unique items .

Don’t forget to take a ride on the big Ferris wheel – the view from the top is breathtaking , especially at sunset.

6. Rosewood Restaurant or Happy Fish ( Dinner Option 1) – 1 hour (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

For a delightful dinner in Asiatique , you’ve got two popular choices : Rosewood Restaurant and Happy Fish. Here’s a quick intro to help you decide:

i. Rosewood Restaurant

Rosewood Restaurant is truly a gem! Nestled in a serene setting with beautiful wooden decor , this spot offers the perfect ambiance for a quiet, romantic dinner .

For a start, their roasted chicken, brimming with traditional Thai flavors, is a must-try . Their steaks won’t disappoint either . Many visitors highly recommend the Grilled Chicken , so it might be worth a taste.

And as the evening deepens with live music , it’s the perfect setting to round off your meal with a cold beer , immersing yourself fully in the relaxed atmosphere.

ii. Happy Fish

For a lively dining experience, head to Happy Fish .

Not only do they serve mouth-watering seafood , but they also have a variety of international dishes , like grilled chicken, pizza, burgers, and spaghetti . With prices ranging from 200 Baht to 500 Baht , it’s affordable too.

Fancy a drink? They have a nice selection of cocktails and beers to complement the live music . The riverside view, combined with the tunes, makes it a memorable spot.

7. Watch the Calypso Cabaret Show – 1 hour (7:45 PM to 8:45 PM)

Be sure to catch a live performance of Calypso Cabaret after dinner. It’s a famous ladyboy show with vibrant dances, stunning costumes, and impressive performances .

The combination of glittering costumes, lively music, and talented performers make this a highlight of any Bangkok visit.

The original ticket price for the show is 1200 Baht , but if you purchase online , you can gain a 25% discount ! The show has two time slots: 7:45 PM and 9:30 PM. For updated show times, please check their website.

8. Chao Phraya Princess Cruise (Dinner Option 2) – 2 hours (7:30 PM to 9:30 PM)

Another great dinner option is to hop aboard the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise , which you can easily board at Asiatique Pier .

You can get more information about this trip by checking the cruise menu and prices here .

The cruise itself is such a lovely way to see Bangkok’s scenic night landscape and relish in the cool river breeze .

You are given 2 hours to savour the overloaded buffet of local and international dishes .

While enjoying your food, there’s a live band to serenade you for a night full of entertainment .

Let’s get ready for day 2 of your exploration in Bangkok . The itinerary for today takes you through Thailand’s vibrant marketplaces, top family destinations, and a feast of local culinary delights.

• 9:00 AM: Platinum Fashion Mall
• 11:00 AM: Pratunam Market
• 1:00 PM: Have lunch at either Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle or Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice
• 2:00 PM: SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• 5:00 PM: Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• 7:00 PM: Enjoy your dinner at Jeh O Chula or the Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet

1. Platinum Fashion Mall – 2 hours (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM)

Commence with your morning adventure at Platinum Fashion Mall . Without a doubt, this is a very popular shopping mall in Pratunam , Bangkok.

It’s an indoor mall that has all kinds of fashion items and accessories .

There are over 1000 outlets inside the mall , offering trendy clothing, underwear, and kids’ wear .

You’ll also find different belts, handbags, shoes, wigs, and even cosmetic products . The best part of the mall is that it is air-conditioned.

2. Pratunam Market – 2 hours (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

No Bangkok itinerary would be complete without going to the Pratunam Market and exploring its vibrant shops.

This busy marketplace is just situated on the opposite side of Platinum Fashion Mall .

Most of the stalls sell fashion stuffs at a wholesale price , ranging between 50 Baht and 400 Baht per piece of cloth . This means the clothes here are really cheap .

So, if you’re in need of new dresses, pants, shoes, and accessories, this is the best place to get your money’s worth .

3. Lunch at Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle or Chicken Rice – 1 hour (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

After all the shopping, enjoy your lunch at one of the recommended spots below , which are close to Pratunam Market . Both places offer some of the best tastes of Bangkok . Enjoy your meal.

i. Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle

For just around 100 Baht, you can enjoy a rich and creamy noodle soup made with a fragrant broth, large prawns (Kung), and often served with noodles.

The soup is tangy, spicy, and a tad creamy from coconut milk, making it an unforgettable dish.

Access: Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle shop is not close to Pratunam Market. You can take a Grab car for about 150 Baht, and it takes 15 minutes to get there.

ii. Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice

If you’re a fan of chicken dishes, you must visit Go-Ang Pratunam . For only 50 Baht per plate, you can savor their famous tender Hainanese chicken paired with fragrant rice.

4. SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World – 3 hours (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

In the afternoon, consider a visit to SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World , the largest aquarium in South East Asia . It’s a spectacular place with over 30,000 marine creatures .

I’ve been there, and it’s a sight to behold. The highlights for me were the sand tiger sharks , giant eagle rays , and the vibrant coral reef fishes .

Plus, you shouldn’t miss the playful penguins and giant spider crabs . I truly love this place for its mesmerizing marine displays.

A little tip: consider booking your aquarium admission tickets online . I found out you can save some money off the original ticket price this way!

Access: If you’re coming from Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle shop, you may opt for a Grab car to SEA Life Bangkok Ocean World, which costs about 120 Baht and will take roughly 10 minutes.

5. Madame Tussauds Bangkok – 2 hours (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM)

Spend your evening at Madame Tussauds Bangkok . This is such a nice spot to run into your favourite stars .

In this museum, you’ll get to meet the wax figures of best-known movie actors such as Jackie Chan , Captain America , Will Smith , and Hugh Jackman .

Musical stars like Michael Jackson , Lady Gaga , and Ariana Grande are also present.

For the sports category, there’s David Beckham , Cristiano Ronaldo , Serena Williams , and more. In addition, there’s a display for the world’s top leaders .

6. Dinner at Jeh O Chula or Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet – 2 hours (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

If you’re looking to indulge in a memorable dining experience in Bangkok , you can’t miss out on Dinner at Jeh O Chula or the Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet . I’ve had the pleasure of dining at both, and believe me, they’re truly special.

i. Jeh O Chula

At Jeh O Chula , the star dish is their famous Mama Instant Noodles . It’s called Jeh O’s Famous Mama Tom Yum .

This isn’t just any bowl of noodles. It’s a small pot comes with Mama Noodles mixed with flavorful seafood like prawns and squid, eggs, and juicy pork meatballs .

They even add their signature crispy pork belly, giving it an upscale twist . Though it might sound simple, take my word for it, the dish offers a burst of unexpected flavors .

Just a heads up, the queue at Jeh O Chula can be quite long , sometimes stretching over an hour . If you’d like to skip the wait , I suggest you reserve a seat online.

Access: Jeh O Chula is a bit far from Madame Tussauds Bangkok, so I suggest taking a Grab car to get there. It will cost around 100 Baht and take about 10 minutes.

ii. Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet

The Baiyoke Sky Hotel Buffet is on the 81st floor . It’s in Thailand’s tallest hotel !

They have lots of food like sushi, grilled meats, seafood, Thai dishes, and desserts . Want to see all the food choices? Simply check the buffet menu here .

And the best part? While eating, you can see the whole city of Bangkok from high up . It’s a beautiful view!

Access: Catch a Grab car from Madame Tussauds Bangkok to Baiyoke Sky Hotel will cost about 100 Baht and is expected to take approximately 10 minutes.

On day 3 of this Bangkok travel itinerary , start with a visit to Thailand’s largest market for an immersive shopping experience.

Afterwards, explore the art and history at a heritage house. Then enjoy a leisurely massage to relax before continuing your adventure.

• 9:00 AM: Chatuchak Weekend Market
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Chatuchak Market
• 1:00 PM: Jim Thompson House
• 3:00 PM: One More Thai Massage
• 5:00 PM: Mahanakhon SkyWalk
• 7:00 PM: Jodd Fairs Dan Neramit
• 9:00 PM: Dinner at Holy Shrimp

1. Chatuchak Weekend Market – 3 hours (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)

Have a fun morning visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market Bangkok . As the largest market in the country , you surely will have a lot of shopping options here .

This particular market is known for its trendy clothing at super cheap price .

Most of the items available on display are fashionable tops, comfy shirts, formal wear, and sports attire .

There are also colorful headbands, cute footwear, beautiful bags , and a lot more!

2. Having Lunch at Chatuchak – 1 hour (12:00 PM to 1:00 PM)

After shopping at Chatuchak Market , you don’t need to venture far for lunch .

The market isn’t only about fashion; it’s also a culinary hotspot with numerous food stalls serving a range of delicious foods, drinks, and desserts .

Don’t miss out on dishes like fried chicken, grilled river shrimp, chicken skewers, and coconut ice cream . Many of these mouthwatering items start at just 20 Baht .

3. Jim Thompson House – 2 hours (1:00 PM to 3:00 PM)

The next stop is to visit Jim Thompson House and search around its connecting houses . This traditional museum is known for its ancient and personalized exhibits .

Some of the things featured here are silk scarves, handbags, accessories, and clothing . Each of these comes with unique and beautiful designs that make it very eye-catching .

There’s also a cosy restaurant and gift shop inside the museum.

So, if you want an old-style tourist site in Bangkok with eye-catching display, make sure to pop by the museum.

4. One More Thai Massage (Chit Lom) – 2 hours (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

For those seeking to unwind and relax in Bangkok , One More Thai Massage is a spot you shouldn’t miss.

Located in the heart of the city, this massage haven offers an authentic Thai massage experience .

When you’re there, I’d recommend trying their traditional Thai massage or perhaps a soothing foot massage .

It’s not just about the massage, though; the ambiance and the skilled therapists make the whole experience truly rejuvenating .

For a detailed look at their packages and treatment options , simply see their prices here .

5. Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Thailand’s Highest Observation Deck) – 2 hours (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM)

Before the evening kicks in, go to Mahanakhon SkyWalk and catch the sunset . This spot is the best place to see the entire view of Bangkok and its magical cityscape.

The moment you step onto the glass skywalk, you’ll find yourself immersed in a stunning landscape of soaring buildings and lively streets below.

It’s like the whole place is lit up with the warm glow of the sunset . Believe me, you’ll want to take it all in. It’s a view you’ll never forget .

Tip: Be aware that evening lines can be long, so it’s best to book your Mahanakhon SkyWalk tickets online beforehand to save time and ensure your spot.

6. Jodd Fairs DanNeramit – 2 hours (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

If Jodd Fairs DanNeramit isn’t on your itinerary yet, it should be! It’s a special market in Bangkok with a fairytale castle , cool vintage cars , and lots of food stalls .

And if you like taking photos, this market is perfect. There are so many great spots for pictures!

Shopping here is fun too. You can find stylish clothes, cool accessories, old-school items, and gifts to take home.

And if you get hungry, there’s plenty of food . From tasty Thai snacks to Japanese food, BBQ skewers, drinks, and more . Plus, there are nice places to sit and eat .

I recommend trying the spring rolls, pad Thai, chicken skewers, and the sweet mango rice . They’re all delicious.

7. Savor Holy Shrimp – 1 hour (9:00 PM to 10:00 PM)

For dinner , I’d recommend trying Holy Shrimp at Jodd Fairs DanNeramit.

They serve amazing seafood dishes . You can enjoy tasty shrimps, mussels, and scallops, all cooked just right in a yummy sauce .

The mix of herbs and a splash of lemon make everything taste even better. Don’t forget the sweet corn—it adds a nice touch to the meal.

If Holy Shrimp isn’t to your liking, don’t worry! Jodd Fairs DanNeramit has plenty of other food options to explore .

From crispy fried chicken and cheesy pizza to juicy burgers and spicy tomyum , you won’t have any trouble finding a delicious dinner here . There’s something for everyone’s taste!

Going to Tokyo soon? Consult my Tokyo itinerary for 7 days to assist you in planning your trip.

The next stop on your Bangkok adventure takes you first to a popular zoo, home to a diverse array of animals and marine life.

Following that, you’ll visit a vibrant park offering stunning photo spots and picturesque dining experiences.

• 9:30 AM: Safari World Bangkok + Lunch
• 4:30 PM: Chocolate Ville + Dinner

1. Safari World Bangkok – 6 hours (9:30 AM to 3:30 PM)

Get yourself ready as you visit the Safari World Bangkok in the morning. Home to thousands of different animals , this park is undeniably entertaining.

Here, you will encounter bears, crocodiles, deers, lions, parrots, orangutans, tigers, and many more !

There are also remarkable shows to look forward to such as the tiger and lion feeding shows , dolphin show , orangutan show , and sea lion show .

Giraffe feeding is another captivating activity for all ages.

I highly suggested that you book the zoo tickets online to save around 40% compared to buying the tickets on-site.

Getting There:

Unfortunately, there isn’t a BTS or MRT station near Safari World. The best and easiest way to get there is by taking this shuttle bus from Central World shopping mall. This is how we did it during our visit. However, it’s required to reserve your seat online in advance .

Please be aware that outside food is not permitted at Safari World. However, there’s no need to worry! The park has numerous restaurants offering a variety of dishes, from Thai and Asian cuisines to Western favorites like burgers.

2. Chocolate Ville – 3 hours (4:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

Come evening, proceed to the ever-colorful Chocolate Ville Bangkok . This is a beautiful European-themed village that is filled with gorgeous photography spots .

Walk around and you’ll see pretty streets everywhere, perfect for photos . There are fountains , old-style buildings , and even a calm lake .

If you’re visiting Safari World Bangkok and Chocolate Ville in one day , consider booking this shuttle bus . It’s a time-saving choice since neither attraction is train-accessible.

Alternatively, you can take a Grab car from Safari World to Chocolate Ville, which will cost around 160 Baht and take about 30 minutes.

When you’re ready to head back to your hotel, getting a Grab car from Chocolate Ville is also simple.

You can take your dinner at Chocolate Ville. It offers lots of yummy food choices, from local Thai dishes to tasty Western meals. I believe you’ll enjoy it!

For a scenic dining view, I’d suggest grabbing a seat by the riverside.

Day 5 of the Bangkok itinerary will bring you to the best Thailand floating market and other unique tourist spots .

During our recent trip, we took a bus tour from the city centre of Bangkok to the markets . We chose this method because these places aren’t easily accessible by public transport .

If you want to follow what we did , just book the top-rated bus tour here .

Personally, I was very satisfied with the bus tour service . We had enough time to explore , and the guides offered recommendations on the best local foods to try.

Now, I’d love to share with you the destinations we visited on this day.

• 11:45 AM: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• 1:50 PM: Maeklong Railway Market
• 6:00 PM: The One Ratchada + Dinner

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – 1 hours 45 minutes (11:45 AM to 1:30 PM)

Commence your morning with a visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , the most famous floating market in Thailand .

This destination is not just a top day trip from Bangkok but also a haven for photography enthusiasts . So, make sure to include this place in your itinerary .

As you wander, hop on a boat ride for an up-close view of the market . You’ll find delicious local snacks being sold by boat vendors – make sure to taste a few!

If you join the tour like we did , the tour guide will arrange a boat ride for you , so there’s no need to worry about it.

While exploring the market along the canal , you’ll discover a wide range of delicious foods . Make sure to sample as many dishes and snacks as you can.

For your lunch , you can opt for the boat noodle , which is priced at 60 Baht . Then, pair it with the delicious mango sticky rice at 50 Baht . These two are very popular in the market, so make sure not to miss them.

And, you can try coconut ice cream , which is also a favourite among locals and even tourists . The price for this kind of dessert is normally 40 Baht .

Side note: Some travellers choose to visit Amphawa Floating Market . This market is celebrated for its seafood goodness and relaxing ambiance, but it’s not as renowned as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

2. Maeklong Railway Market (Rom Hup Market) – 1.5 hours (1:50 PM to 3:20 PM)

In the afternoon, make your way to the Maeklong Railway Market and capture the moving train . This is definitely the main reason why travellers want to visit this popular market when they’re in Bangkok.

Aside from that, this place is also a fun spot to buy some dried fruit snacks . Most of these are sold for as low as 50 Baht .

So, if you’re looking for delicious and affordable treats, you can buy them here.

And to energize you, try the fresh coconut in the market , which is also very cheap . It’s only 20 Baht! You really can’t find this kind of price anywhere in Bangkok , so don’t miss them out.

3. The One Ratchada – 3 hours (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

Kick off your evening at The One Ratchada . This cozy market is perfect for both shopping and eating .

If you’re like me and love local markets, this place is a treat. You’ll find stylish clothes and unique souvenirs to take home .

With a vast array of food options , you can easily have your dinner in the market .

Delight in delicious sushi , refreshing smoothies , and fresh coconuts . And for seafood lovers , don’t miss out on the grilled crabs and prawns .

To top off your visit, unwind at one of the laid-back bars with affordable drinks and lively music. Enjoy!

If you’re planning to see several attractions in Bangkok , you might want to consider getting the Bangkok Multi-Attraction Pass .

For instance, if you’re interested in visiting Safari World, enjoying a river cruise, and seeing the city from the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, buying tickets one by one would cost 3,230 Baht .

But if you get the multi-attraction pass , it’s just 2,400 Baht for all three . That means you save 830 Baht .

If two of you are traveling , you’ll save even more , about 1,660 Baht in total . The pass can get you into as many as 28 attractions . For more info, just hit the link below.

• Check out Bangkok Multi-Attraction Pass here

To help you craft the perfect itinerary for your Bangkok vacation, I’ve created a map that highlights all the best places in the city.

This way, you can see where each attraction is located and easily plan out your route from one must-see to the next.

For the best accommodation , below are my most recommended hotels to stay in Bangkok . These hotels are situated near BTS stations, shopping malls, and eateries .

• Holiday Inn Bangkok : For those who want to be near Chit Lom and Siam BTS stations, this hotel is a great choice. Not only that but this is also 5 minutes away from the top shopping malls such as Central World and Siam Paragon.
• Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel : This hotel is very near to Pratunam Market and Platinum Fashion Mall. Just a 5-minute walk to Siam Paragon Mall and Central World Shopping Complex.
• ibis Bangkok Siam : This hotel is very close to MBK and Siam Paragon shopping mall. It’s also located next to the National Stadium station. This BTS station allows you to easily ride BTS Skytrain to visit other places in the city.

Just in case you do not know, it’s quite difficult to get a free Wi-Fi connection in Bangkok. That’s why it’s advisable that you get a Thailand prepaid SIM card ahead of time.

You can book here for the prepaid SIM card before you kick-start your vacation. This is actually what we did during our trip to the city.

Why Use Local Prepaid SIM Card

• It allows you to navigate around the city via Google Maps easily.
• It lets you check the precise train route from time to time while travelling.
• It gives you the chance to use Grab. Having a local SIM card is needed because the driver needs to call you beforehand to confirm the pickup location.

Why Book the SIM Card Online

• Online reservation offers you up to 50% discount compared to buying it directly at the airport.
• It’s easy for you to pick up the SIM card at the counter of Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport .

After your Bangkok trip, is Singapore or Penang your next stop? If yes, then better read my suggested 5 days in Singapore itinerary or Penang 3-day itinerary right here!

1. BTS Skytrain and Metro (MRT)

The best way to get around Bangkok is by taking the BTS Skytrain and Metro (MRT) . This transport option lets you skip the traffic jam and save your travel time .

You can purchase the train ticket from the ticket vending machines located in each station . Hence, you just buy the tickets every time you need to ride a train .

To check the train route, I recommend that you utilize Google Maps. This gives you the shortest route to reach your preferred destination.

Unfortunately, taxi scams in Bangkok are quite common . Some drivers do not use their taxi meter so they charge tourists a higher, fixed price .

Because of this, I encourage you to use Grab for safety purposes . The rates of this transport service are also reasonable, so nothing to worry about.

3. Airport Transfers

My most recommended choice when it comes to travelling from the airport to a hotel is via private airport transfer . It’s because this option offers stress-free transportation .

There’s no need to drag your luggage during train transfers . All you have to do is relax and wait for your destination.

I booked a private airport transfer during our trip , and their service was truly excellent , with a very friendly driver . They can even take you directly to any hotel in Bangkok .

Check out the prices at the below links.

Bangkok is all set for you; just add these ideas to your own itinerary. Have a fantastic time exploring!

30 Top Things to Do in Bangkok You’ll Want to Go in 2024

12 Best Bangkok Night and Day Markets to Visit in 2024

Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok: A Detailed Guide

1 thought on “bangkok itinerary: the best 5 day trip guide for reference”.

Hello Josh, We plan our trip to Thailand and Cambodia our group 11 adults. I have read your advice and tips and it helps me a lot especially my sister, nieces and nephews are depending on me to do tours. Thank you!

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2023 Bangkok Travel Guide (Budget + Itinerary)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Sep 12, 2023 | Featured , Itinerary , Thailand , Tourist Spots , Travel Guide | 44 comments

Bangkok is special to me, because this is where I first backpacked solo abroad. I remember booking a cheap airfare months before my trip. I booked a tour and a hotel from a travel agency but after paying it, they called me and said I had to pay for two because the hotel room is good for two. So I asked for a refund. And that’s how I started researching about DIY trips to Bangkok, Thailand that eventually led me to setting up this blog. I read a Bangkok Travel Guide that introduced the concept of backpacking and DIY travels to me.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE

Bangkok is a good introduction to Southeast Asia backpacking because everything here is cheap (hotels, food, tours, shopping, transportation, etc.), it is easy to explore, it is rich in culture, it has arguably the best food in Southeast Asia, it is tourist-friendly (save for a few pushy touts), it is generally safe (except for tuktuk scams) and it is easy to cross the border (from Thailand) to neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. I’ll blog about border-crossing from Thailand in the future, but for the meantime, here’s my Bangkok Travel Guide with budget and itinerary to help you plan your next trip. .

WHEN TO VISIT BANGKOK  : Bangkok is situated in Southeast Asia, near the equator, dear readers. So expect it to be hot and humid during summer and prepare for torrential downpour during the rainy season.

November to February is the best season to visit Bangkok since it is cool and dry. I have traveled to Bangkok a few times during this season. However if you want to avoid the crowd, take note that December to January is the peak season.

March to June is pretty hot, I traveled a few times to Bangkok during this season and I could not stand staying in a fan room. I recommend booking an air-conditioned room if you plan to travel around the aforementioned months. If you want to get a tan, this is a good season for Thailand beaches. And if you are in Bangkok around second week of April, don’t miss the popular Songkran Festival.

July to October is the wet season, expect drizzles to heavy downpour that might ruin your travel plans. However, there is a good side to the low season, hotels and airfares can go as low as 50% off, so it can be pretty tempting to travel.

BANGKOK CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE: Bangkok uses Thai Bhat (THB or ฿) as currency. But I suggest you bring US dollars to get a better rate. I had a hard time finding a money changer in Bangkok that accepts Philippine peso the last time I was there. Money exchange shops are widespread in Bangkok, but bank rates are usually better, so, I prefer withdrawing cash from ATM.  Take note that there is a ฿200 (₱315 – $6) fee when you withdraw using foreign accounts.  Some banks like Aeon Bank charge less, about  ฿150 (₱236 – $5)  per withdrawal. So if you plan to withdraw from an ATM, make it one time big time since the fee per transaction is quite hefty.

BANGKOK WI-FI: While most accommodations in Bangkok have free Wi-Fi, it’s important to stay connected online while you are outside and touring around. You can use your data or rent a pocket Wi-Fi.

• Thailand Pocket Wi-Fi: RENT HERE
• Thailand Simcard: BUY HERE

BANGKOK ELECTRICITY : Bangkok and the rest of Thailand uses 220 V. Power outlets commonly have two-prong round or flat sockets. Bring universal adapter plug. You can also buy at convenience stores in Bangkok like 7Eleven.

BANGKOK TIME : Take note that the Philippines is 1 hour ahead of Bangkok, Thailand. Adjust your watch while in Bangkok so you won’t miss your tour or flight.

THAILAND VISA : Philippine Passport holders are entitled to a 30 day visa-free entry (by air) to Thailand. If arriving by land like crossing borders from Cambodia, Laos or Malaysia, you will only get a 15 day visa-free stay.

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK FROM MANILA

Several airlines fly to Bangkok from Manila like Cebu Pacific, Thai Airways and Philippine Airlines.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO BANGKOK CITY CENTER

• AIRPORT TRANSFER

If you want an easy and efficient transfer in a modern air conditioned vehicle from Suvarnabhumi airport to your hotel, you can book an airport transfer.

Bangkok Airport Transfer: RESERVE HERE

• AIRPORT TAXI

The Bangkok Airport taxis are located outside the First floor (Ground Floor), near entrances 3,4,7, and 8. Taxis have different colors depending on the taxi company.

There are 2 kinds of  Bangkok Airport taxis:

• Ordinary taxi: good for 2-3 passengers with small luggage
• Maxi taxis: good for 3-4 passengers with large baggages

Taxi fare is charge by the meter, plus additional  THB 50 (₱78 -$1.50) airport surcharge and Express Way fees.

To get an airport taxi, after collecting your baggage, proceed to the kiosk with “Taxi Meter Only” sign. You need to tell the staff where you need to go and you’ll be given a paper printed with your destination. You will be pointed to where you need to go for the taxi pick up.

If you will be taking Grab  from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi) to Bangkok City, expect to pay around  ฿375 (₱590 /$11) to ฿1,000 (₱1,571 /$30)  depending on your destination.  Travel time from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi) to Bangkok City is roughly 30-45 minutes.  Remember that many drivers in Bangkok aren’t fluent in English, so you might have a hard time communicating.

•   BY AIRPORT RAIL LINK

This is the fastest way to get to Bangkok City from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabhumi Airport) if you want to avoid the infamous Bangkok traffic. However, it won’t bring you directly to your hotel, unless your hotel is near one of the BTS or MRT stations.

The Airport Rail Link is located at the Basement Level and is open from 5:30 AM to 12:00 midnight only.  Fare is roughly THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35) from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City and vice versa.

The line starts at Phyathai Station to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Airport line stops at 7 stations along the way.

• (A1) Suvarnabhumi Airport
• (A2) Lad Krabang Station
• (A3) Ban Thap Chang
• (A4) Hua Mak
• (A5) Ramkhamhaeng
• (A6) Makkasan (City Air Terminal, interchange with MRT Blue Line (Petchaburi)
• (A7) Ratchaprarop
• (A8) Phayatai Station (interchange with BTS Sukhumvit Line).

If you’re heading to Bangkok City, you can connect to BTS Skytrain or MRT Metro Trains at (A6) Makkasan Station for THB 35 (₱55 -$1) or at (A8) Phayatai Station for THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35). Fare for the city line is THB 15 (₱24 -$0.45) to THB 45 (₱71 -$1.35) depending on the distance.

Just to give you a brief explanation, the Airport Line is the line that connects to the airport from both the BTS and MRT Line (pretty much like Manila’s LRT and MRT). BTS is a skytrain that runs across Bangkok from North to South East are. Meanwhile, the MRT is a subway that runs along the main road in Bangkok.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SUKHUMVIT BY AIRPORT LINE + MRT/BTS SKYTRAIN

Here’s how to get from Bangkok Airport to Bangkok City via the Bangkok BTS and MRT Line:

1.At Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport), make your way to the Basement Level. 2. Buy tokens or pass for the Bangkok Airport Train.

3.Ride the Bangkok Airport Train.

4.Alight at (A6) Makkasan Station. Fare is THB 35 (₱55 -$1).

5.If your hotel is located in Silom and Chinatown. Walk to the (BL21) Phetchaburi Station (MRT Blue Line).

6.Ride the blue line at (BL21) Phetchaburi Station to (BL22) Sukhumvit Station. Fare is THB 17 (₱27 -$0.51).

7. Alight at (BL22) Sukhumvit Station. Take Exit No.3 – Sukhumvit Road. From there you can get to Asoke intersection on Sukhumvit Road, to Silom and Chinatown.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SUKHUMVIT BY UBER/GRAB/TAXI

Coming from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) Airport Sukhumvit, Uber/Grabe/Taxi will cost you around TBH 325/PHP 496 (USD 10/EURO 8/ SGD 13/MYR 41).

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO KHAO SAN ROAD: BY UBER/Grab/Taxi

If you decide to take UBER/Grab/taxi to Khao San Road, prepare to pay around TBH 375/PHP 573 (USD 11/EURO 10/SGD 375/MYR 48).

BY AIRPORT LINE + BTS Skytrain

From Bangkok Airport to get to your hotel in Khao San Road, you can take the Airport Line + BTS Skytrain. The closest BTS Skytrain stations are National Stadium Station (closest station but needs 2 transfers), Ratchatewi Station (1 transfer) and Siam Station (1 transfer) but it is still quite far, about 5 KM. So from any of these stations, you can take Uber/Grab or taxi to Khao San Road.

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line to Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2: Transfer to dark green line and alight at Ratchatewi Station or Siam Station. Take a cab/Uber/Grab to Khao San Road. Fare is around TBH 107/PHP 163 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4.36/MYR 14).

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line to Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2 : Transfer to dark green line and alight at Siam Station. STEP 3: From Siam Station, transfer to light green line to National Stadium. STEP 4: Take UBER/Grab/taxi to Khao San Road. Fare is about TBH 95/PHP 145 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 12). IMPORTANT: Good news is, the MRT Extension has been approved, so once that line opens, you can just get off at Democracy Monument Station (OR 5) and walk to Khao San Road.

BANGKOK AIRPORT (SUVARNABHUMI) TO SILOM

BY UBER/GRAB/TAXI

Uber/Grab/Taxi to Silom from Bangkok Airport (Suvarnabumi) will cost roughly TBH 375/PHP 573 (USD 11/EURO 10/SGD 375/MYR 48).

BY AIRPORT LINE + MRT/BTS SKYTRAIN OPTION 1

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line and alight at Makkasan Station. STEP 2: Transfer to MRT Blue Line en route to Hua Lamphong. Get off at Silom (Si Lom) Station.

STEP 1: Take the Airport Line and get off at Phyathai (Phaya Thai) Station. STEP 2: Transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line en route to Bearing and alight at Siam Station. STEP 3 : Transfer to BTS Silom Line en route to Bang Wa) and get off at Saladaeng Station.

BORDER-CROSSING IN THAILAND

Poipet (Thailand) – Aranyaprathet (Cambodia)

ALSO READ: 

BANGKOK – CAMBODIA BORDER CROSSING

Huay Xai (Thailand)/ Chiang Khong (Laos) Koh Lipe (Thailand)/ Langkawi (Malaysia)

ALSO READ: BANGKOK TO CAMBODIA BORDER CROSSING

GETTING AROUND BANGKOK

Getting around Bangkok can be confusing at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to explore the city. There are 6 modes of transportation that you can use:

TRAIN (BTS Skytrain/MRT)

A cheap way to get around Bangkok is via the train (BTS Skytrain/MRT). You can use single-trip tokens or pre-paid Smart Passes. Single Journey tokens will cost you THB 15/PHP 23 (USD 0.45/EURO 4/SGD 0.61/MYR 2) – THB 52/PHP 80 (USD 2/EURO 4/SGD 2/MYR 7) depending on the number of zones you crossed, while the day pass is THB 130/PHP 199 (USD 4/EURO 4/SGD 5/MYR 16). You can purchase tickets from the ticket booth or ticket machines in every station. Always print the receipt or ask for one, you might need it later.

BY CAR RENTAL

• Enjoy a comfortable private charter from Bangkok in a modern air conditioned car (up to 3 people) or a van (up to 10 people)
• Choose between full or half day packages to suit the requirements of your trip
• Plan your own itinerary and let your driver find the shortest route to get there
• Feel safe in the hands of your experienced driver and guide on request (full day charter only)

Thankfully, Uber and Grab are now available in Bangkok that will make commuting hassle-free!

I’ve used taxi in Bangkok a few times, I just hail one and they automatically turn on the meter. If they don’t, insist on using it or get out and hail another cab. Do not approach the ones parked near Khao San Road, they don’t use the meter! Flag down is THB 35/PHP 53 (USD 1/EURO 0.89/SGD 1.43/MYR 35), and usually cost me around THB 70/PHP 107 (USD 2/EURO 2/SGD 3/MYR 9) to THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (FLAT FARE TAXI): When you ride a taxi and the driver refuses to turn on the meter saying it’s a flat fare taxi. The driver will most likely charge you about 3 times the usual meter rate. Get off and hail another cab.

The Chao Phraya express boat is usually a cheap way to get to the Grand Palace complex and Wat Pho, not to mention you will avoid traffic. Meanwhile, the Saen Saep express boat is popular among locals for daily commute.

IMPORTANT: If you are a female, do not sit next to a monk on a boat (or any public transportation) or stand in the same area of the boat. Do not touch them or their things. It is frowned upon.

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (TBH 10 or TBH 20 Tuktuk Ride): Don’t believe when a local approaches you and tells you that ferry is not frequent and will leave at certain times of the day only. He will then hail a tuktuk to take you around for about TBH 20/PHP 30 (USD 0.90/EURO 0.76/ SGD 1.22/MYR 4) but instead of taking you directly to your destination, the driver will take you to different travel agencies and shops. TBH 30 is a small amount but if you are pressed for time, this can ruin your itinerary.

You can charter a long-tail boat to explore Khlong Bangkok Noi and other canals in Thonburi. Negotiate the price first before leaving.

I’ve used the bus a few times before, it can be confusing. It’s a cheap way to get around Bangkok, however I won’t really recommend this because you might get lost if you don’t know where to get off.

There are motorbikes that can take you to your destination (short-distances). I’ve used this a few times to get to my hotel and evade traffic. They are mostly wearing helmet and uniforms and parked at the BTS/MRT Stations or bus stop. The fares are clearly posted, so make sure you read them or ask the driver before hopping on the motorbike. Helmet is provided.

Honestly, I’ve never used a tuktuk before for my Bangkok tour because of the gem scam issue. But a good friend advised me, it is not as bad as he thought. The drivers will add the gem market to the destination (it’s like when you take the tours in Vietnam or Indonesia and they take you to souvenir shops where the driver and the tourist guide get commissions). So it’s still up to you if you will purchase from those gem stores. If you do, they will get a commission. But if you are really hesitant since this will waste your time and ruin your itinerary but you want to experience riding in a tuktuk, you can use it for short distance ride but be wary of another scam the TBH 10 or 20 tuktuk ride. See details below this post (list of Bangkok Scams).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT (CLOSED FOR TODAY): Don’t believe when a friendly local approaches you and introduces himself as a teacher and then will tell you that the Grand Palace or a certain temple or a certain attraction is closed for a Buddhist holiday or cleaning. He will then hail an accomplice tuktuk to tour you or take you to another temple or attraction. The driver will drive you around to gem stores or shops and get a commission for taking you there. I was told they usually get gas coupons.

BANGKOK TOP ATTRACTIONS

Ko rattanakosin area.

This is where Bangkok’s most important temples are concentrated, including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Dubbed as the historic center of Bangkok, Rattanakosin established sometime in 1782 when the capital of Thai Kingdom was moved here – Rattanakosin Kingdom, which was the 4th Kingdom of Thailand.

THE GRAND PALACE and WAT PHRA KAEW

When in Bangkok, don’t miss the Grand Palace the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since 1782. This sprawling complex is sprinkled with jaw-dropping buildings, gardens and pavilions.

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Thailand Open Hours: 08:30 AM– 03:30 PM Entrance Fee: THB 500/PHP 764 (USD 15/EURO 13/SGD 20/MYR 63), ticket includes a visit to Wat Phraew and Dusit Palace (you can use within 7 days).

BANGKOK SCAM ALERT: If a local approaches you and tells you the Grand Palace is close for the day and offers to take you to other temples instead. Do not believe him/her. It’s a scam. Go directly to the main entrance.

DRESS CODE: Do not wear shorts or tank tops, it is considered disrespectful. Make sure your legs and shoulders are covered. You can rent sarong near the palace gate in case you failed to comply like me.

HOW TO GET TO THE GRAND PALACE:

STEP 1: Take the Silom Line (BTS Skytrain) and alight at (S6) Saphan Taksin Station.

STEP 2: Hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Ta Chang Pier (No.9). From here, the Grand Palace is about a 5-10 minute walk.

If coming from Khao San Road, the Grand Palace is about 20-30 minute walk. Consult Google Maps for directions. Or just take a taxi or UBER/Grab for about THB 47/PHP 72 (USD 1.42/EURO 1.19/SGD 2/MYR 6).

I’ve tried this route twice but I usually visit other temples along the way. Will write a more detailed Bangkok Walking Tour blog soon.

If coming from the National Stadium, Silom or Lumphini BTS/MRT Station, you can take Bus #47. Fare is about THB 7/PHP 11 (USD 0.21/EURO 0.18/SGD 0.29/MYR 0.89) on weekdays and FREE during weekends.

From Phaya Thai, Hua Lamphong BTS/MRT Station or National Stadium, you may take a cab or UBER/GRAB for about THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13).

Bangkok Grand Palace and River Cruise Sightseeing Half Day Tour

• See the best of Bangkok on an immersive tour of the city with a professional guide
• Take a relaxing cruise down Chao Phraya River and view iconic Bangkok landmarks
• Have lunch at Wang Lang Market, a truly local place and a street food haven
• Transportation between sights and English speaking guide services are included

Inclusive Of:

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free WiFi on board Professional licensed English/Chinese/Japanese/Korean speaking guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program (THB500) Boat ride at the floating market Insurance provided by the operator

Nearby the Grand Palace is another famous temple – Wat Pho, known for its gigantic reclining Buddha. But more than that, Wat Pho is actually the earliest public education center in Thailand. Interestingly, the Epigraphic Archives of Wat Pho (Temple of the Bodhi Tree) in Bangkok has been recognised by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme.

Address : 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Sub district, Pranakorn District, Bangkok Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13)

HOW TO GET TO WAT PHO:

See directions above for getting to The Grand Palace. Wat Pho is near Tha Tien Pier adjacent to the Grand Palace but it is located on the other side of the entrance gate.

WAT ARUN Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 8:00 AM -6:30 PM Entrance Fee: THB 100/PHP 153 (USD 3/EURO 3/SGD 4/MYR 13)

HOW TO GET TO WAT ARUN:

See directions above to get to the Grand Place. Then ride the boat to Wat Arun at Than Tien Pier near the Grand Palace. Fare is THB 4/PHP 6 (USD 0.12/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.16/MYR 0.51). Boat leaves every 10-15 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

CHAO PHRAYA PRINCESS CRUISE

• View historic Bangkok landmarks, such as the Emerald Buddha Temple and Grand Palace, by night on a grand cruise ride
• Hark back to the 80s and 90s with a live band, performing hits by ABBA, Donna Dummer and the Supremes
• Enjoy the Bangkok nightscape and take in the cool breeze from the perch of the boat deck, overlooking the famous Chao Phraya River
• Indulge in a gourmet buffet of Thai delicacies as well as international favorites

Dusit is the the administrative center of Thailand, this is where the royal palace is located, as well as the magnificent Dusit Palace, Vimanmek Teakwood Mansion and Marble Palace.

DUSIT PALACE (Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall)

Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is my favorite building in Bangkok because of the intricate paintings on its ceiling and the surreal Arts of the Kingdom exhibit.

Address: U-Thong Nai Road, Bangkok, Thailand

• As of October 1, 2017, the Dusit Palace is  indefinitely closed and the Arts of the Kingdom exhibit will be moved to Ayutthaya.

Entrance Fee: THB 150/PHP 229 (USD 5/EURO 4/SGD 6/MYR 19). But if you have the Grand Palace Ticket, it is included in the ticket so long as you pay a visit within 7 days.

DRESS CODE: Do not wear shorts or tank tops and make sure your legs and shoulders are covered. You can rent sarong near the palace gate in case you failed to comply like me.

IMPORTANT: Photography is not allowed inside, you need to deposit your bags including your camera and phone.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Vinmamek Mansion, Marble Temple

HOW TO GET TO DUSIT PALACE

The most convenient is to get there by Uber/Grab or Taxi. If coming from the Grand Palace to Dusit Palace (type Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Uber) fare is around TBH 145/PHP 221 (USD 4.35/EURO 3.68/SGD 6/MYR 18).. If coming from Khao San Road to Dusit Palace (type Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Uber), fare is about TBH 112/PHP 171 (USD 3.36/EURO 3/SGD 5/MYR 14).

But if you want to save a few bucks, you can ride the BTS Skytrain to Victory Moment Station and ride air-conditioned bus 12 or 515 to Dusit Palace at Ratchawithi Road. Alternatively, you can take the BTS Skytrain to Rajchathevi Station and ride bus 16.

If you are coming the Old City, take air-conditioned bus 70 to the Dusit Palace. You can hail bus 70 at Sanam Luang near the Grand Palace. If you are at Khao San Road area, you can hail bus 70 at Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. Then, alight outside the Royal Elephant National Museum at Uthong Nai Road. To be sure, ask the locals where to get off.

You can also take bus #3/9/32/43/64/65/524 and alight at Thewet Market or The National Library. Then, you can reach Dusit Palace on foot.

VINMAMEK TEAK MANSION (Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall)

What makes Vimanmek Mansion special, which is a former royal villa in Bangkok, is entire museum was built out of golden teak. Today, the mansion has been turned into a museum that is open to the public.

Address: 16 Rajvithi Rd, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon

Update: Building is closed for renovation.

MARBLE TEMPLE

Address: 69 Nakornpathom Rd Dusit, Bangkok Open Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

KHAO SAN ROAD AREA

Khao san road.

WAT SAKET (GOLDEN MOUNT TEMPLE)

Open Hours: 8:00 AM -5:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

HOW TO GET TO THE GOLDEN MOUNT (WAT SAKET)

This is near The Grand Palace and Khao San Road. STEP 1: Ride the BTS Sky Train to Ratchathewi Station (N1) (Sukhumvit Line). Take Exit 1 and upon exiting turn around and walk straight ahead to Khlong Saen Seab. STEP 2: Ride the long tail boat from the pier to Phan Fha Pier at Wat Saket.

WAT SUTHAT AND THE GIANT SWING

Open Hours: 9:00 AM -4:00 PM Entrance Fee: THB 20/PHP 31 (USD 0.60/EURO 0.10/SGD 0.20/MYR 3)

OTHER BANGKOK ATTRACTIONS

ASIATIQUE SKY FERRIS WHEEL

• Marvel at the spectacular bird’s eye views of Bangkok city from clean and comfy, air-conditioned cabins
• Enjoy 3 full rotations on the Ferris Wheel
• Located at Asiatique the Riverfront, an open air mall with a range of entertainment, shopping and dining options

How to get to Asiatique:

Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin [S6]. From Saphan Taksin Station, take exit 2 to the pier, about 80 steps. Take the ferry to Aisiatique. Ferry runs from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The free ferry runs until 8:00 PM only, so from 8:01 PM to 11:00 PM, you need to pay for the ferry.

MUAY THAI LIVE

• Witness fight scenes straight out of the big screen – in this live show on stage!
• See jaw-dropping martial arts moves in this tale about Thai boxing
• Experience the action up close with a Premium ticket
• Enjoy refreshments outside the venue before the show begins

BANGKOK DAY TOURS AND SIDE TRIPS

Damnoen saduak floating market.

• Discover Thailand’s most popular floating market without any forced shopping stops along the way
• Steer your boat down the narrow winding canals and explore one of Thailand’s oldest traditions
• Get a few souvenirs for friends back home and take beautiful pictures of the bustling floating market
• Learn all about the floating market’s long history from your professional guide

Join in tour Air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi on board Professional licensed guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program Boat ride in floating market Insurance provided by operator

• 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!
• Learn about the rich, enchanting history of Buddhism with visits to three of the most important temples in Ayutthaya – Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Lokayasutharam
• Discover the former glory and grandeur of Ayutthaya with a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
• Take a ride around the mystical city of Ayutthaya on a motor boat and marvel at the ancient ruins and structures
• Savor a delicious local lunch at Ayutthaya Floating Market while watching a Thai cultural show

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free WiFi onboard Professional English/Chinese/Korean/Japanese-speaking guide All admission fees Boat ride Insurance provided by the operator

THINGS TO DO IN HUA HIN

• Visit Thailand’s famous markets on an immersive day trip from Bangkok
• Watch a train pass through the middle of a bustling market – Maeklong Railway Market
• Relax at the authentic weekend market of Amphawa, frequented by the locals
• See the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the most popular market in Thailand (Three Markets Tour only)
• Learn about the history and culture of these iconic markets from your informative guide

Join in tour Air conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi on board Professional licensed English/Chinese/Korean/Japanese speaking guide All admission fees as mentioned in the program Boat ride at the floating market Insurance provided by operator

KANCHANABURI

Kanchanaburi Custom Tour from Bangkok

• Hike in one of Thailand’s best nature preserves and jump into the emerald pools of the 7 tier Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park
• Cross the Bridge over River Kwai, setting for the namesake World War 2 movie
• Visit WW2 memorials of Kanchanaburi, where the infamous Burma Death Railway was built with POW labor
• Hike through Hellfire Pass and walk in the footsteps of the thousands of Aussie POWs who cut through the mountain rock by hand
• Choose from a 1-2 day customizable trip in Kanchanaburi to see everything the province has to offer or just your favorites

Private customizable tour 12 hour charter service (per day) Experienced driver Air conditioned vehicle Fuel costs Toll charges Car seat available upon request Guide (optional) Insurance provided by operator

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

SIEM REAP TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary) 2019

Where to shop in bangkok.

This famed 8 storied mall is packed with over 2,000 shops selling clothes, bags, accessories, electronic gadgets, mobile phones and cameras. Prices are negotiable here.

Address: Phayathai Rd, Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00PM

HOW TO GET TO MBK MALL:

Ride the BTS Skytrain and get off at National Stadium Station. MBK can be reached on foot from there.

CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

If you like bargain hunting then Chatuchak Market is for you. You can find almost everything you need here at bargain prices. You can even purchase in wholesale price.

Address: 587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Mo Chit station. Take Exit 1 and follow the crowd until you see stalls selling apparels. Turn right and continue to follow the crowd. You should see a small entrance to the Chatuchak Mark.

TERMINAL 21

Terminal 21 houses over 600 shops in its 9 floors selling everything you can possibly need. What’s unique about this mall is each floor features different cities like Tokyo, London, Paris, Hollywood, Caribbean, Istanbul and San Francisco.

Address: 88 Soi Sukhumvit 19, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO TERMINAL 21: Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Asok.

PLATINUM FASHION MALL

If you’re in Bangkok on weekdays but you missed the Chatuchak Market, you can find dirt cheap clothes and other apparels at Platinum Fashion Mall instead.

Address: 10400, 644/3 Phetchaburi Rd, Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO PLATINUM MALL:

Take the BTS skytrain and alight at Chidlom Station. Take exit 9 and walk through Ratchaprasong Skywalk. Turn right to enter Gaysorn Plaza Building.

PANTIP PLAZA

Pantip Plaza is the place to be if you like to shop for mobile phones, cameras, software, computer accessories, software and hardware and other electronic gadgets that won’t empty your wallet.

Address: New Phetchaburi Road in Ratchathewi district, Bangkok Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM HOW TO GET TO PANTIP PLAZA:

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at BTS Chidlom Station. Hire a tuk-tuk or cab/ UBER/Grab to take you to Pantip Plaza. Alternatively, you may also walk 10 minutes down Ratchadamri Road past Central World on your left, over the Saen Saeb canal and then turn left on Phetburi Road. Walk for about two blocks to Pantip Plaza, which you should see on your left. Use Google Maps.

CENTRAL WORLD

Central World is the largest shopping mall in Thailand, and one of the largest in the world. You can find almost everything you need here. The mall has easy access to Erawan Shrine and Trimurti Shrine.

Address: 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4 Ratchadamri Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

HOW TO GET TO CENTRAL WORLD Take the BTS SkyTrain and get off at E1 Chit Lom Station (Sukhumvit Line). Take Exit 9 for Skybridge to Gaysorn Plaza and cross road to Central World via flyover.

SIAM PARAGON, SIAM DISCOVERY AND SIAM CENTRE Address: 991 1 Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

This is the first mall I visited in Bangkok since it’s pretty accessible, just in front of Siam BTS Skytrain. Siam Paragon has over 250 shops that caters to high-end shoppers. Madame Tussauds is located on the 6th Floor of Siam Paragon.

MADAME TUSSAUDS BANGKOK (WAX MUSEUM)

HOW TO GET TO SIAM PARAGON:

Take the BTS Skytrain and alight at Siam BTS Skytrain station. You won’t miss the mall because it is just in front of the station.

BUDGET HOTELS IN BANGKOK

Silom is the financial district of Bangkok. It is also a good base due to the wealth of budget hotels here plus access to MRT link to Hualamphong Station. Also check out the old backpacker neighborhood near Lumphini Park packed with affordable rooms.

Lub d Bangkok Silom Hostel

4 Decho Road Suriyawong Bangrak, Silom, Bangkok, Thailand

HQ Hostel Silom

5/3-4, Silom Soi 3, Silom Road, Bangrak, Silom, Bangkok

Hostel Na Nara

72,74 Narathiwasratchanakarin Road, Silom, Silom, Bangkok, Thailand

(KHAO SAN ROAD AREA)

Khao San Road is Bangkok’s backpacker’s mecca. It is dappled with hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels Everything you could possibly need is available here.

TARA PLACE 

The warehouse bangkok .

120 Bunsiri Road, San Chao Por Sua, Phra Nakhon, Khaosan, Bangkok, Thailand

BAAN DINSO 2

78/3 Ratchadamnoen Klang Road Pranakorn Borvornnivate, Khaosan

SUKHUMVIT AREA

Sumkhumvit has a a wealth of budget and mid-range accomodations too. Also, it is pretty accessible as it is on the MRT links to the BTS and MRT Lines. It is also near the Eastern (Ekamai) bus station and the MRT links to Hualamphong Station.

Chan Cha La 99 Hostel

Rezt Bangkok

75 Soi 22, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongton, Klongtoey, Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Oneday Hostel Sukhumvit 26

BANGKOK ITINERARY

*Take note that the Philippines is 1 hour ahead of Bangkok, Thailand.

BANGKOK ITINERARY 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS (BANGKOK + AYUTTHAYA)

Here’s a sample 4 days 3 nights Bangkok itinerary with side trip to Ayutthaya.  Feel free to tweak this depending on your budget and schedule.

BANGKOK ITINERARY 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

(bangkok + pattaya).

Here’s a sample 4 days 3 nights Bangkok itinerary with side trip to Pattaya.  Feel free to tweak this depending on your budget and schedule.

  ALSO READ: BANGKOK ITINERARY

Bangkok budget/cost, bangkok budget for 4 days 3 nights, (bangkok + ayutthaya).

Here’s a sample trip budget if you follow the Bangkok Itinerary 4 day 3 nights (Bangkok + Ayutthaya) above.

If you opt for Pattaya day trip instead of Ayutthaya day tour, you can replace the Ayutthaya budget with Pattaya City & Coral Island Day Tour from Bangkok with Klook for about THB/PHP 2,083 (USD 41/EURO 35/SGD 55/MYR 173). Total expenses for a 4 days 3 nights Bangkok trip if you follow the 2nd itinerary above is roughly TBH 6,026.03 / PHP 9,219/ USD 1180.26/EURO 153.46/SGD 246/MYR 764.

If you plan to do a 5 Day 4 night Bangkok trip, then you can do both Pattaya and Ayutthaya as side trips.

BANGKOK/THAILAND LAWS

It is very important to abide by the Thailand laws listed below to avoid getting into serious trouble. Better be safe than sorry.

• Never disrespect Thailand’s King, Queen, Heir or Regent by insulting them or defacing images of the monarchy (such as stepping on a bank note). It’s a serious offense that can result in 3 to 15 years in prison. This offense is known as Lèse majesté in Thailand, based on Thai Criminal Code section 112.
• Never step on the bank note. It is a serious offense.
• Illegal drugs (using, carrying, transporting or producing) is punishable by death sentence.
• The drinking age in Thailand is 20. Drinking alcohol is illegal in the following locations in Thailand: temples or places of worship, public offices, public parks, pharmacies, petrol stations and education institutions.
• Do not throw chewing gum on the ground (be careful when you spit it, make sure it goes to the trash can!). If caught, there’s a hefty fine and you can be jailed.
• Do not litter in Thailand, you can be fined THB 2,000 if you’re caught.

BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS

• Take off your shoes when you enter a temple.
• Tuck your feet under you so that they are not pointing at anyone or anything when you are sitting on the floor.
• Never take photos of people while they are praying and do not have your picture taken with a Buddha image.
• Visitors are not allowed to enter a temple wearing revealing clothes like tank tops and shorts or skirts above the knees. Good thing, most temples will have sarong or pants for visitors to borrow.
• Female should never touch a monk or hand him anything directly. When offering alms, place it on a table for the monk to pick up. Also, do not sit next to a monk on a boat (or any public transportation) or stand in the same area of the boat. Do not touch them or their things.

BANGKOK SCAMS

• (CLOSED FOR TODAY/GEM SCAM): Don’t believe when a friendly local approaches you and introduces himself as a teacher and then will tell you that the Grand Palace or a certain temple or a certain attraction is closed for a Buddhist holiday or cleaning. He will then hail an accomplice tuktuk to tour you or take you to another temple or attraction. The driver will drive you around to gem stores or shops and get a commission for taking you there. I was told they usually get gas coupons.
• (TBH 10 or TBH 20 Tuktuk Ride): Don’t believe when a local approaches you and tells you that ferry is not frequent and will leave at certain times of the day only. He will then hail a tuktuk to take you around for about TBH 20/PHP 30 (USD 0.90/EURO 0.76/ SGD 1.22/MYR 4) but instead of taking you directly to your destination, the driver will take you to different travel agencies and shops. TBH 30 is a small amount but if you are pressed for time, this can ruin your itinerary.
• (FLAT FARE TAXI): When you ride a taxi and the driver refuses to turn on the meter saying it’s a flat fare taxi. The driver will most likely charge you about 3 times the usual meter rate. Get off and hail another cab.

SUKHOTHAI TRAVEL GUIDE

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44 comments.

You are a blessing!! Thank you!! I’m about to go to Bangkok on the 2nd and my friend just frigging ditched me.. Thank you!!!!

welcome. enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

Hi! i just want to say thank you for posting this. It will make our trip so much easier and less hassle.

Keep it up!

welcome. enjoy your trip, Patricia! 🙂

Hello Ms. Gael, thank you very very much for this detailed and informative travel blog for Bangkok. I am planning to go there this end of October till 1st week of November, 2018 to meet my Indian friend and to celebrate also my birthday there. It will be our first time to travel in Bangkok, I hope it will be very memorable for us. I super appreciate this blog. Thank you! (^_^)

Awww! Really appreciate you dropping by! Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoy your Bangkok trip! Safe travels always! 🙂

Hi Gael, heaidng to Bangkok in two days from Canada. Last minute trip for 11 days. Very excited and I’m glad that I found your blog, some great ideas!

Thanks again!

Welcome! Enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

I’ll be going to Bangkok this May and I am a bit nervous since this will be my first time to travel alone. But thank God, I found this detailed blog post. Thank you so much! <3

Planning my First Trip outside the Philippines. Thanks a Lot. 🙂🙂🙂

Welcome! Excited for you! Have fun! 🙂

Hi thanks for the Tip. Super great help.

Can I ask a question. For any car or van hire in thailand in Klook, is it per vehicle or per person for the price? Just confused.

rate for car or van hire via klook is usually per vehicle. 🙂

for the car rental usually it’s per vehicle. click the link on the blog for more details. 🙂

I use this as my reference for our trip in Bangkok next week! You’re great! 🙂

Thank you! Enjoy! 🙂

Hi! I was wondering if there was an error with the post? Your sample itinerary for Bangkok+Ayutthaya is missing, instead the budget breakdown for Bangkok+Ayutthaya was doubled. I hope to see the itinerary for Ayutthaya. Your post is very helpful, more power! ^^

Thank you for that pointing that out. Apologies. I fixed it already. 🙂

Hello! may i ask if what is advisable? using a 4g sim or renting a pocket wifi? thanks.

if you are alone, you can just use a sim card since it’s cheaper. Pocket wifi id advisable for those traveling in groups

Wow! This is amazing! I’ll use this itinerary on my Bangkok trip. This is very helpful. Thank you for taking time to share your wonderful experience. More power!

welcome! hope you enjoyed Bangkok! 🙂

This would really help for our future thailand trip, but which most you suggest place to stay??? Near the victory mall and airport.

Can you also post any travel tips if we’ll DIY our trip to Ayutthaya? 🙂

I’ll work on that 🙂

This is very, very helpful! I am currently working on the itinerary for our Bangkok trip this September 🙂

Hi, Is there a “show money/proof of fund” at Thai Immigration? Thank you!

Supposedly, but usually they ask those who’ve been crossing back and forth sa Thailand for visa run.

I got a lot of useful information here! We will be traveling to Bangkok next week. Hihi. Will share my itinerary as well. Thanks a lot 🙂

Welcome. Enjoy Bangkok! 🙂

Love how detailed this guide is. I actually send this to my mom since she’s going to BKK with her friends. She couldn’t thank me enough cause she’s able to fill up their itinerary.

Awww. Glad was able to help! Hope she enjoys her trip! Thanks for dropping by! 🙂

Saan po may bilihan ng murang mga damit? 🙂

Sa Chatuchak Market 🙂

Bangkok is a great place to hangout. Really you have shared a great piece of information for Bangkok travelers. Your post is too long, but it is worth reading it. Good luck and keep writing!

Thank you for reading! Safe travels! 🙂

I went to Bangkok last year, but was only in for about a day and a half total as I was going south towards Chumphon. I love this guide and am looking forward to implementing it on my next trip in Bangkok! You sound very knowledgeable about the city and getting around.

these kind of blog are so much informative and surely so much helpful for the bloggers that are really needed to be the at best part.

What’s your advice for first time female travellers planning to visit Bangkok? I’m really scared and I dont know if I should still push through my plans. 🙁

Bangkok is safe naman for solo female travelers. Traveled there many times alone. You can read this guide to help you plan your trip 🙂

This is really helpful.Thank you.

welcome. enjoy Bangkok!

How’s the traffic condition?

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Bangkok Starts Here

For a less nimble blogger, creating a Bangkok travel guide would be a difficult task, maybe even an unruly one. It’s easy for me, however, given that I’ve lived there on three separate occasions, to say nothing of my dozens of trips before, between and after those residential stints.

Intellectually, I approach my recommendations Bangkok attractions, day trips and restaurants from the standpoint of a quasi-local. On the other hand, I present and organize my suggestions in a way that reflects the time sensitivity necessary for your trip, which will almost certainly be a short one.

Although I’ll stop short of presenting a complete Bangkok itinerary, it will be easy for you to read between the lies of this post and create one. No matter what type of traveler you are, and whether you’re looking for things to do in Bangkok for three days or otherwise, Bangkok starts here.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

I’ve written a complete article about where to stay in Bangkok , but if you don’t feel like reading it, I’ll recommend a couple of areas and hotels convenient to my Bangkok travel guide here. In my more detailed article, I outline that you have two basic choices about where to base yourself in Bangkok: The Old City and the New City. (There are subdivisions within both of these, but I won’t go into them for a few more paragraphs.)

If you want to stay in the Old City (in particular on Rattanakosin island, on the east bank of the Chao Phraya), I recommend either the luxurious Chakrabongse Villas , or the simpler (but adjacent) Riva Arun . The best Bangkok hotels in the New City, meanwhile, range anywhere from the spartan Diamond City Hotel not far from the airport rail link, to the Eastin Grand Hotel in Sathorn, to the ultra-luxurious Rosewood Bangkok .

My Favorite Things to Do in Bangkok

Dig deep into bangkok’s old citi(es).

Searching for the best temples in Bangkok? Famous ones include Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), in Rattanakosin and Thonburi, respectively. Lesser-known temples and shrines I also love include the Wat Pak Nam “space temple” deeper into Thonburi, Erawan Shrine just across from CentralWorld Mall in Ratchadamri and Wat Saket , aka the “Golden Mountain,” from which you can get one of Bangkok’s most enchanting sunset views. The Grand Palace , meanwhile, is home to Wat Phra Kaew , the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Devote a full evening to Chinatown

Whether you dine at Bangkok Chinatown restaurants like the understated dim sum joint Canton House , or brave the somewhat chaotic street food scene, Yaowarat is a logical place to continue exploring Bangkok once the sun has set on the old city. Hop in a tuk-tuk and head down to this exciting part of town, whether you have a cocktail at one of the many shophouses converted into gin bars, say your prayers at the magnificent Wat Traimit marble temple or practice your long exposure photography skills in front of the Chinatown Gate .

Embrace your inner shopaholic

Earlier I mentioned CentralWorld, which is one of almost countless malls along Rama I and Sukhumvit Roads in the heart of Bangkok. To be sure, whether you visit relatively basic malls like MBK Center near National Stadium , classics such as Siam Paragon and Terminal 21 , or upscale retail establishments like IconSiam , Central Embassy and Phrom Pong area’s Emquartier , shopping is one of the most accessible things to do in Bangkok. It’s also a very practical choice to make, given that the free AC you enjoy inside malls saves you from the city’s unrelenting heat! No matter how many days in Bangkok you decide to spend, you’ll want to enjoy some retail therapy.

(And your inner foodie—duh!)

Here’s a hack you might not be expecting: Much of the best street food in Bangkok is not on the streets. Rather, basically all the malls I listed above have their own food courts, where you can enjoy clean and safe versions of dishes you might otherwise only find on the street. You’re welcome! Of course, if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can always enjoy street eats in spots such as Convent Road in Silom, Soi Suan Phlu 8 in Sathorn and of course, Chatuchak Weekend Market (which, in spite of its name, is actually located closer to Kamphaeng Phet MRT station than to the Chatuchak Park one).

Make a point of taking day trips

The sheer number of day trips from Bangkok you can take is staggering, especially when you consider how much there is to do in the city. Obvious choices include the ancient city of Ayutthaya to Bangkok’s north and Pattaya , a coastal city (though not really a “beach” one) to the south and east. Other great places to visit on a day trip include various floating markets (the most famous of which is Damnoen Saduak in Samut Songkhram province) and Maekhlong Railway Market . Other destinations, such as the towering Buddha of Ang Thong , lush Kanchanaburi and Koh Samet island, are better seen on weekend trips.  

How Many Days Should You Spend in Bangkok?

For a long time, 3 days in Bangkok was my gold-standard answer for how long you should stay in Thailand’s capital. Now, having lived there (on more than one occasion), I can clearly see arguments why you might want to spend more or less time in Bangkok. On the low end, if you’ve only got a week or two in Thailand, it makes sense that two full days in Bangkok might be all the doctor ordered, at least to start with—you’ll likely need to come back here at the end of your trip.

Likewise, given all the things I’ve listed in this Bangkok travel guide (to say nothing of how delightful it is to discover Bangkok’s many neighborhoods), it makes sense that you would want to spend longer in Bangkok—and I’m not just talking about expanding your Bangkok 3-day itinerary into four or five. Staying in Bangkok for a week or longer is especially enjoying, because it allows you to feel as if you’re living there (even though—trust me on this one—living in Bangkok is definitely not for everyone).

Is Bangkok Underrated or Overrated?

This segues perfectly into the next question some of you are asking yourself, namely “is Bangkok worth visiting?” While, as I’ve just expressed, I don’t necessarily think living in Bangkok if for everyone, I do think every traveler to Thailand needs to visit Bangkok at least once. I’m biased in saying this: During my first trip to Thailand, more than a decade ago, I’d had no intentions of setting foot in the capital. It was only because my crappy point-and-shoot camera busted when I was on Koh Mak that I stopped in Bangkok at all. (I immediately fell in love, in case you couldn’t infer that.)

In general I would say that Bangkok is underrated, primarily because most people travel there either with wrong instructions or wrong intentions—usually both. For example, there is a certain subset of tourists that just wants to go wild, be it along foreigner-infested Khao San Road or on seedy Soi Cowboy, which is probably my least-favorite street of Sukhumvit Road. Even people who arrive in Bangkok wanting to have the best experience are often seriously misguided about where to go in Bangkok. You’re here, however, so that thankfully won’t include you.

Other FAQ About Travel in Bangkok

What can you do in bangkok for 3 days.

With three days in Bangkok, you can spend one day in the “old” cities of Rattanakosin and Thonburi, another exploring modern districts such as Siam, Silom, Sukhumvit and Sathorn and a third taking day trips, whether to ancient Ayutthaya, or the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market. Have a longer amount of time to spend? Thankfully, many of the things to do in Bangkok in three days can be spread out to four, five or longer.

Is Bangkok worth visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you prefer modern experiences like shopping malls and skybars, or visiting ancient temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, Bangkok is one of the most dynamic cities in the world, and the indisputable hub of Southeast Asia. If you’re searching for what to do in Bangkok today, the possibilities are basically endless!

Is Bangkok safe for tourists right now?

Bangkok is safe in the sense that violent crime is relatively rare—petty theft is another story. As as certain other dangers, including traffic accidents, respiratory irritation from constant pollution and even occasional political demonstrations. With all this being said, Bangkok is much safer than most cities in the United States and Latin America.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’ve come here seeking a general Bangkok travel guide, to decide how many days to spend in Bangkok or wanting a complete itinerary for Thailand’s capital, I’m confident you’ve now found what you’ve needed. I’m biased—I lived here on several occasions after all—but I think Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world, and certainly among my favorites. Focus your energy on the city-center, divided between ancient Rattanakoskin or Thonburi and futuristic Silom, Siam and Sukhumvit, or take day trips to destinations like spiritual Ayutthaya and lush Kanchanaburi. Don’t want to leave your Thailand trip to chance? Commission a custom Thailand itinerary today!

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Bangkok travel guide

Bangkok tourism | bangkok guide, you're going to love bangkok.

With 5.10 million inhabitants, Bangkok is the most populous city in Thailand. It is the most popular tourist destination in the country. We recommend you stay at least 4 days in order to fully appreciate everything Bangkok has to offer.

Activities & attractions in Bangkok

Art & Performing Arts

Other activities

Where to Eat in Bangkok

Pathum Wan is the neighborhood with the most restaurants in Bangkok. These include popular favorites such as Front Room at Waldorf Astoria Bangkok (151 Ratchadamri Rd), Penthouse Bar + Grill (Central Embassy, 88 Wireless Road, Lumpini) and ARTUR Restaurant (9 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road). If you’re looking for affordable options, Nahm (27 South Sathorn Road) and Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar and Restaurant (King Power Mahanakhon, 114 Naradhiwat Rajanagarindra Rd) are great picks.

When to visit Bangkok

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Bangkok in April, when the average temperature is 86 °F, and the highest can go up to 93.2 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 69.8 °F, with an average temperature of 78.8 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in September, when precipitation is around 12.6″. In contrast, January is usually the driest month of the year in Bangkok, with an average rainfall of 0.4″.

How to Get to Bangkok

Bangkok is served by 2 airports: Bangkok Don Mueang Intl (DMK) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). The closest to downtown Bangkok is Bangkok Don Mueang Intl, which is located 19 km from the city center. Further away is Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, 25 km from the center of Bangkok.

Located 5 km from the city center, Bangkok Bang Sue Railway Station is the busiest station in Bangkok. Another popular train station is Bangkok Don Mueang Railway Station, located 19 km from the center.

Another option to get to Bangkok is to pick up a car rental from Pattaya, which is about 99 km from Bangkok. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Drive Car Rental, among others, in Pattaya.

The most popular bus station is Bangkok Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Chatuchak), located 6 km from downtown Bangkok. Bangkok Bangkok South Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) is also a commonly used station, and is 12 km from the city center.

Airports near Bangkok

Airlines serving bangkok, where to stay in bangkok.

From 5-star hotels such as the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River to great affordable options like the Royal Ivory Sukhumvit Nana , Bangkok offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around $31 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $129 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Tuk Tuk Hostel and Tara Place . There are also lots of vacation rental options in Bangkok, with prices from $13 to $401 per night. Watthana is the neighborhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, vacation rentals in Bangkok are about 23% cheaper than a hotel room in the city.

Chinatown - In Bangkok’s most popular neighborhood to stay, recommended hotels include Shanghai Mansion Bangkok , The Quarter Hualamphong By Uhg and Hotel Royal Bangkok @ Chinatown .

Watthana - Here you’ll find travelers’ favorites such as Solitaire Hotel Bangkok , Ad Lib Hotel Bangkok and Adelphi Forty-Nine . The average nightly price for a double room in Watthana is $7.

Phaya Thai - Newyork Suite Hotel , Vic3 Bangkok and Gold Orchid Bangkok have some of the best reviews among hotels in this area. A 3-star room in Phaya Thai will cost you about $16 per night.

Where to stay in popular areas of Bangkok

Most booked hotels in bangkok, renting a car in bangkok.

Renting a car in Bangkok costs $30 per day, on average, or $118 if you want to rent if for 4 days.

You’re likely to save money by renting your car at the airport: locations in the city are, on average, 2% more expensive than at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi.

Expect to pay $4.77 per gallon in Bangkok (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $57.24 and $76.31. The most frequently booked car type in Bangkok is Economy (Toyota Yaris or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Premium rental cars (Toyota Land Cruiser Prado or similar) are, on average, 78% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

Best car rental deals in Bangkok

2 Adults, 2 Bags

4 Adults, 2 Bags

Free Things to Do

Top Museums to Visit

Lumpini Park Guide

Beaches Near Bangkok

Guide to the Grand Palace

Top Night Markets

Floating Markets

Best Temples to Visit

Shopping in Bangkok

Best Street Food Dishes

Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Bangkok

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Bangkok Airport Guide

Where to Stay

Public Transportation

48 Hours in Bangkok

Getaways From Bangkok

Top Things to Do

The 18 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

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Sprawling Bangkok, a metropolis of more than 8 million people, often gets overlooked by travelers to Southeast Asia who land briefly in the city before heading off to beaches in the south or more peaceful Chiang Mai in the north. But these travelers are missing out. Bangkok is bustling and cosmopolitan, a unique melange of centuries-old history in the form of palaces and temples and towering bars and billion-dollar shopping centers. There are seemingly endless things to do in the City of Angels.

Admire the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew

Pakin Songmor / Getty Images

Thailand's most important Buddha statue lives in an astounding temple complex on the grounds of Bangkok's Grand Palace. If you've seen the enormous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, you might be surprised to see that the Emerald Buddha pales in size. At just 26 inches tall, the seated Buddha is sacred in Thai culture and may only be touched by the king. The site is home to many other interesting artifacts too, including a curious model of Angkor Wat, constructed in the late 1800s by King Mongkut.

Visit the Jim Thompson House

Fabrizio Vendramin / Getty Images

Whether you know the story of Jim Thompson or not, a visit to his stunning home is a must-do in Bangkok. Thompson, an American who single-handedly started the Thai silk industry after World War II, built an elaborate compound of Thai-style teak houses on a khlong (canal) across from Bangkrua, where his weavers worked. Thompson mysteriously disappeared in Cambodia in 1967, shortly after his home's completion, but luckily, the site—and Thompson's immense collection of Asian art—has been preserved for all to enjoy.

Shop a Floating Market

Igor Prahin / Getty Images

Floating markets are a massive draw for many visitors to Bangkok, but beware that you might be disappointed. Unfortunately, these markets are over-populated by tourists, so if you go expecting an incredibly authentic experience, you might be disheartened by the overabundance of vendors selling photo ops with animals or floppy sunhats. Still, an early morning visit to a floating market can be an enjoyable experience. Skip the overcrowded Damnoen Saduak market and instead head to Tha Kha. While it's a slightly further drive (it takes about 90 minutes each way), you'll find fewer cheesy souvenirs and much better food, including the famous boat noodles.

Stroll Through a Retail Palace at IconSIAM

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Completed in 2018 to the tune of $1.5 billion, IconSIAM is a retail giant among Bangkok's shopping centers . You can expect to find every major American and European retailer here—and then some. IconSIAM is home to the city's first Apple store and a unique indoor floating market. The downstairs food court has more than 100 different dining options and excellent options for Thai gifts. A free and convenient water taxi runs from the pier near the BTS Skytrain Saphan Taksin Station.

Get a Glimpse of Local Life Along Bangkok's Canals

Sangkhom Sangkakam / Getty Images

Bangkok's khlongs (canals) are crucial to everyday life for many Thai people. You'll still see wooden stilt houses along many of them, as well as small shops selling groceries and more. One of the most fascinating and unique ways to see what life is like here is to take a long-tailed boat ride along the canals. Most of these tours focus on Thonburi, west of the Chao Praya, and near Wat Arun. On a tour, you'll typically pass the Royal Thai Barge Museum, an orchid farm, or, if you go on a weekend, the Taling Chan floating market.

Have a Drink in the Sky

Courtesy of Lebua

For a bird's-eye view of Bangkok, head up 820 feet to Sky Bar at Lebua . One of the world's tallest rooftop bars, Sky Bar might look familiar since it played a prominent role in "The Hangover: Part II," but even if you're not a movie fan, the views alone are still cinematic. Grab a drink or have dinner at one of Lebua's sister establishments, which include the Michelin-starred Mezzaluna and the newly-opened, state-of-the-art Chef's Table, where Vincent Thierry, who manned the kitchen at Hong Kong's three-star Caprice, now runs the show.

Explore the Immense Chatuchak Weekend Market

It's easy to get lost in this enormous market, where vendors line-up to sell everything from elephant pants to live animals. With more than 15,000 stalls, it pays to have a plan when you visit. Go early (Bangkok's hot!), know what you want to buy, and get a map. While the market is a great place for Thai silk, housewares, and cheap and cheerful clothing, some vendors illegally sell wildlife or products made from animal materials like ivory or coral. Avoid these things entirely and also be mindful of any items displaying Buddha, as it's illegal to export these from the country.

See How Royalty Lives at the Grand Palace

It's hot and crowded, yet tourists still flock to Bangkok's Grand Palace. The massive complex, home to the Emerald Buddha and several other impressive buildings is model after the Grand Palace in Ayutthaya, Siam's original capital until the Burmese destroyed it in 1767. If you go, go early—the grounds open at 8:30 a.m.—so you can beat some of the crowds and a little bit of the heat.

Make New Friends on Khao San Road

 Rocky89 / Getty Images

If you want to hang out with other tourists—and, hey, maybe you do!—head to Khao San Road. A long-time hub for backpackers and other budget travelers, bustling Khao San Road is lined with bars, restaurants, shops, hostels, and more. It's touristy, yes, but if you're looking to meet new friends in Bangkok or for a continuation of your trip, this is the place to do it.

Admire Wat Arun at Sunset

 seng chye teo / Getty Images

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan is one of Bangkok's most iconic temples , situated right on the bank of the Chao Praya. The 220-foot spire, also called a prang , is adorned with porcelain and colored glass and was constructed sometime during the Ayutthaya period. Visitors can climb to the top of the central tower, but the best views of Wat Arun are across the river at sunset—a truly iconic Bangkok scene.

Enjoy Green Space at Lumpini Park

 Mongkol Chuewong / Getty Images

In a city that seems overloaded with asphalt, Lumpini Park is a welcome retreat. Spanning more than 140 acres in the city's business district, the park welcomes visitors looking to golf, run, row around the lake, or relax away from the city's hustle and bustle. During the winter months, the orchestra serenades visitors on weekend evenings, and you can expect to see various groups and clubs gathering throughout the day.

Admire Wat Ben's Marble Facade

Abraham / Getty Images

A younger temple by Bangkok standards—it was built in 1899—Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram is smaller than many but impressive in its style and architecture. Rama V spared no expense building Wat Ben, even importing thousands of pounds of Carrara marble from Italy for its facade. Inside, there's an image of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, the base of which contain's Rama V's ashes. (Fun fact: This is the temple that you see on the reverse of the 5 baht coin.)

Have a Moving Meal in Chinatown

Laura Ratliff

Despite its name, Bangkok's Chinatown has more than just Chinese food. Yaowarat Road, lined on both sides with flashing lights and billboards advertising shark-fin soup and other delicacies, is the place to go for any visitor looking to try a whole lot of street food in a short period. Start with kaeng karii neua (beef curry) at Jek Pui before trying the elaborately stir-fried morning glory greens at Fikeaw Yao Wa-Rat. Then, for your main course, try the peppery pork noodle roll soup at Nai Ek Roll Noodle. If you're not too full, mango sticky rice from one of the many streetside vendors is the way to go. The entire meal will set you back less than $10.

Take a Dinner Cruise on the River

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

While an evening cruise of the Chao Praya can be an excellent way to see a different perspective on the city, most dinner cruises plowing the river offer far from relaxed experiences. You can see them from yards away, with their blaring music and flashing neon lights—not ideal if you just want to enjoy the sunset and admire the temples lit up at night. Supanniga Cruise , which launched in early 2019, aims to turn the loud dinner boat experience into a tranquil one, hosting just 40 guests on sunset cocktail, champagne, and dinner cruises. The latter includes a six-course menu and a welcome glass of champagne for 3,250 baht (around $107). Meanwhile, their sister restaurant, Suppaniga Eating Room , is among the most popular riverfront spots for getting that perfect sunset Instagram of Wat Arun.

See the Famous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho

 Jeremy Villasis / Getty Images

Even if you know very little about Bangkok, you've likely seen or heard of Wat Pho's Reclining Buddha, a 150-foot gold-leafed Buddha in a sideways laying position. While this famous Buddha is undoubtedly impressive, Wat Pho's temple complex is home to four chapels containing nearly 400 gilded Buddha images and other fascinating artifacts. The complex was also the first public university in Thailand, where students would study religion, literature, and science. Today, it's known as a top center for Thai massage and traditional medicine, so if you have the time, don't skip getting a massage.

Learn About Thailand's Rich History at the Bangkok National Museum

  Samuel's Photograph / Getty Images

As the first public museum in Thailand, Bangkok's National Museum houses an extensive collection of Thai art and artifacts. In addition to Buddhist art from other countries in Southeast Asia, the museum's collection is home to a stone pillar inscribed by King Ramkamhaeng, believed to be the oldest record of Thai writing; Thai ceremonial chariots that are solely used for royal cremations; and the Phra Buddha Singh image, the second-most important Buddha image in Thailand.

See a Different Side of Thai Architecture

GreyCarnation / Getty Images

Bangkok's Vimanmek Mansion shows off an entirely different side of Thai architecture alongside an excellent glimpse into royal life. The golden teak building was originally a summer home in Koh Si Chang but was dismantled and reconstructed in Bangkok's Dusit district in 1900. Built in the European style completely free from nails, the house is believed to be the largest golden teakwood building in the world. While no royals live there today, the palace is open to the public who can see many of the rooms where King Chulalongkorn the Great and King Rama V lived.

Shop a Local's Market

If you want to immerse yourself in Thai cuisine, visit Thewet Market. Like much of Bangkok, Thewet is a symphony for the senses: You'll spy piles of chilies, hear the sizzle of garlic and oil hitting the pan, and hear the chatter of locals shopping and haggling for their groceries. If you want to learn how to whip up a Thai dish yourself ( yum som-o , anyone?), find a cooking class that starts with a trip to the market. The luxurious Siam offers guests an excursion that includes a tuk-tuk ride to the market and shopping with the chef before returning to the hotel to cook lunch in a traditional teak house.

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Bangkok Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on June 24th, 2024

Are you planning your Bangkok trip and excited to find out about the must-visit places to visit in this amazing city? Here is the Bangkok travel guide blog that covers the things to do for your 3 to 5 days of Bangkok itinerary!

Bangkok is a traveler’s paradise and it has so much to offer! This capital city of Thailand is the richest destination in the country, and one of the most visited places in the world . The city is surrounded by many great attractions – from beautiful temples, mouth-watering Thai food, shopping destination, nightlife, and more. There are so many reasons that will prove that indeed Bangkok is a must-visit city!

Visiting Bangkok, you will be astounded by the amazing natural landscape, unique culture, friendly locals, and a countless number of great attractions around the city. You will get to feel the city’s vibe and atmosphere. No matter how many times you’ve been, you’ll never get bored and there is always something new and exciting to see, do, and eat in Bangkok. You may want to spend a few days exploring everything the city offers.

If you are also visiting Bangkok during your trip to Thailand , check out my suggested Bangkok itinerary here.

Over the years, we’ve visited Bangkok so many times for leisure holidays, short gateways, shopping trips, or business trips. Still, I always enjoy coming here for the delicious Thai food, unbeatable value, and fascinating things to see in the city. Bangkok can be overwhelming if you’re visiting Thailand for the first time. But, rest assured. We compiled this comprehensive Bangkok travel guide with in-depth travel information and tips. Make the most out of your trip with this detailed Bangkok itinerary with things to see and do as well as suggested tours.

This Bangkok travel guide blog is compressive and long. Free feel to check out the quick links to transportation, hotels, tours, and other services.

Table of Contents

Bangkok Travel Tips

In Bangkok, you’ll easily find yourself being lost in a myriad of things to do and see. There is a wide range of hotels, restaurants, eateries, local markets, and tons of cultural experiences awaiting you to discover. So it is always helpful to have a clear idea of what the city is offering before your trip. You’ll learn about all the useful travel information and money-saving tips to ensure you don’t miss out on any great attractions.

Do you like cultural attractions ? The stunning temples and the interesting and varied sights can easily spend your time in Bangkok. The Grand Royal Palace and Wat Pho is the must-visit attraction in Bangkok for first-time travelers.

Are you a shopaholic ? Bangkok is a shopping paradise with plenty of shopping malls and markets to keep you busy. The Chatuchak Market is the world’s biggest shopping market with 15,000 stalls!

For food lovers , Bangkok is a haven for foodies. Plenty of street food stalls and nice restaurants selling good inexpensive Thai food. You’ll never have an empty tummy during your trip to Bangkok.

In short, Bangkok has something for everyone. It’s an exciting, affordable city that’s much more than your gateway into Thailand. For many travelers, it’s the destination.

Here is a brief idea of how many days you can plan on your Bangkok itinerary:

For sure, to give you the chance to really get to know about Bangkok, you will need more days! I would recommend planning to spend no fewer than 3 days to get the most out of your trip to Bangkok with a glimpse of this cultural city.

If you only have one day in Bangkok, you can see many of Bangkok’s iconic attractions in the space of a day, plus sample some great Thai food with a good itinerary.

With 2 to 3 days in Bangkok, you’ll have a more impressive visit to Bangkok attractions and a fine selection of shopping and dining.

A 5-day Bangkok itinerary is enough to give you a good feel for the city to most of the attractions in the city. You may also be coupled an island trip and a short trip to an attraction nearby into your Bangkok itinerary.

Best Time To Visit Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand is a tropical climate country and the weather is hot and humid all year long. The best time to travel to Bangkok is from November to February as this is the coolest month of the year and the weather is more comfortable. These few months are also the peak season to visit Bangkok and accommodation prices will also increase.

Between March and May is the hottest season and the city’s temperature may reach 26 – 30 Celsius degrees. The serious heat may also cause stormy evening rain in the city. While July to November is the rainy season in Bangkok. So expect rain on most of the days.

Traveling to Bangkok

For international travelers, Bangkok is serviced by two main airports which are Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) if you’re taking a flight into Bangkok.

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is the main primary airport that services most international flights. Public transport is more convenient compared with Don Mueang Airport. You can get into the city with the below options:

• By train : The Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi to Phaya Thai Station with around THB 45. You can transfer to the nearest BTS line and get into your hotel.
• By Bus : Frequent buses depart from 6:00 to 18:00 to Khaosan Road every 30 minutes. The departure point is at Gate 7 on the first floor of the passenger terminal with a bus fare of about THB 60.
• By Taxi or Grab : The fare is about 400 THB to the city center, depending on the distance. Make sure to ask for a meter taxi. Alternatively, the e-hailing Grab is also pretty convenient with the app.
• By Private Airport Transport : From Suvarnabhumi International Airport to/from any popular destinations in the city for single or group of people. Pre-book from Klook with the best price .

While Don Mueang International Airport mostly serves the budget airlines within South East Asia. It is closer to the city but there is no link to the BTS or MRT train station. You’ll need to get to the nearest Mo Chit Station if you want to transfer by train or bus. Alternatively, you’ll need to look for a taxi, Grab, or Don Mueang Private Airport Transfer to the city.

dtac HAPPY TOURIST 4G/5G SIM Card for Thailand

Bangkok Travel Guide : Have the Grab app ready on your smartphone prior to your Bangkok trip. You’ll need the get the wifi connection to pinpoint your pick-up and drop-off locations when using it. Remember to grab your wifi sim card ready at the airport.

Getting Around in Bangkok

Bangkok is a bustling city and it’s very crucial to understand the best ways to get around the city. The traffic in Bangkok is hectic with horrible jams. So it is always advised to figure out the best transport options to avoid the rush hour in Bangkok. Take note that the subway system does not fully cover the travel attraction in Bangkok. So you’ll still need to figure out how to get around in the city when traveling around.

By BTS Skytrain or MRT – Getting around by trains is still considered convenient to the main attractions in the city. Most of the time, we used this option together with the taxi, or Grab when getting around in the city.

By Taxi and e-hailing service: Again, we highly recommended to use Grab when traveling around to avoid tourist scams with estimated prices listed in App. But on some occasions, you will still need to look for a taxi to get there. Please ask for a meter taxi or check with the estimated price to get to the location.

Bangkok Travel Guide : We advise you to write the address down and show it to the driver when communicating with the driver when getting around in the city.

Where To Stay in Bangkok

As a world popular travel destination, there are lots of accommodation options for you to choose from while in Bangkok. You can choose to stay at the budget-friendly guest houses or hostels that provide clean enough accommodation for less than $15 per night. If you visit the city with friends, then there are many mid-range hotels at cheaper prices compared to other cities.

For quick and easy, here are the popular areas with hotel recommendations to stay in Bangkok:

• Sukhumvit and Silom – A modern and cosmopolitan area to stay in Bangkok.
• Siam and Pratunam – Easy access for shipping and getting around in the city.
• Riverside – Stay along the riverside for a great view of the river and nearby Bangkok’s attractions.
• Khaosan – Lively neighborhood with a great introduction to the Bangkok vibe. You’ll find endless bars, shops, restaurants, and street food vendors for whole days.
• Chinatown Bangkok – Stay for food in one of the oldest areas of Bangkok. Many budget hostels and boutique hotels in this area.

We highly recommended the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Towers . It is a great luxury hotel situated along the Chao Praya River. The rooms are super comfortable with fantastic views overlooking the river for your Bangkok gateway.

The Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square is close to many shopping malls with great facilities. Getting around in Bangkok is easy with BTS Siam Paragon is located next to the property. A great pick for shoppers in Bangkok.

For budget travelers, In a Box Hostel is a popular pick for a short stopover in the city. The location is superb and just a step away from the Phaya Thai BTS Station and Phaya Thai airport railway link.

Lastly, be sure to check out our Bangkok accommodation as we wrote an in-depth guide about where to stay in Bangkok .

Planning for Bangkok Itinerary

There are so many things to do in Bangkok that it is hard to decide where to begin. Below is our recommended itinerary for 3 to 5 days in Bangkok which includes what we think are the top things to do in Bangkok for first-time travelers.

How To Plan for Bangkok Itinerary for 3 to 5 Days:

• Day 1: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Chinatown (Yaowarat)
• Day 2: Amphawa Floating Market, Maeklong Railway Market, Drink at Rooftop Bar
• Day 3: Shopping Day! Chatuchak Weekend Market, Siam Paragon, and more.
• Day 4 – 5: Ayutthaya Day Tour, or short trip to Khao Yai, Hua Hin, or Pattaya.

Bangkok Travel Guide Tip : This Bangkok itinerary is flexible and can easily be adjusted, extended, or shortened depending on your interest and travel date. The Chatuchak Market is only available on weekends. Make sure to include it if you’re visiting Bangkok at weekend.

Bangkok Itinerary Day 1

On your first day, start your Bangkok itinerary at the city’s most iconic historical attraction at Chao Praya River . This area is a great place to start your activities as almost all the iconic historical sites and tourist attractions are located here. You may also consider making your way to the Chao Phraya river on either a tourist boat or the local boat to experience this unique culture.

Get the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Bangkok Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boat

We recommended planning your morning and afternoon time for temples and historical sites visit. Have some rest and then only proceed to Bangkok Chinatown for food and shopping.

Day 1 Bangkok itinerary:

• Morning: Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
• Noon: Wat Pho and Reclining Buddha. Wat Arun
• Evening: Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)

Tour recommended : The Grand Palace and temples like the Wat Pho, and Wat Arun are the most visited places in Bangkok. You would probably prefer to join the “ Full-Day Classic Bangkok Tour ” tour that will take you to those most visited places in Bangkok hassle-free!

Friendly reminder, please dress appropriately for the day as you are visiting the Palace and temples. Make sure to have your shoulders and knees covered when you go there. Avoid spaghetti straps, leggings, and tight jeans, especially at Grand Palace. If you are not prepared, the Grand Palace does offer sarung to cover up.

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is definitely one of the first places to see in Bangkok! The Grand Palace opens at 8:30. We recommended getting there early to beat the crowd and also escape from the afternoon heat!

Located right in the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is the home of King Siam since 1782 . You can visit the building complex to understand how the Thai Royal Family lived their lives here. You’ll find many gold shining buildings inside the premise. All the golden statues and jeweled mosaics are simply breathtaking!

One of the highlights is the Wat Phra Kaew, which is also called “The Temple of the Emerald Buddha” . The 66cm Jade Buddha in gold clothing is highly sacred, only the King and no one else is allowed to touch it. Photos are strictly not allowed.

You can explore the Grand Palace on your own, but if you’d like to learn more about its history, then you may be interested in booking a guided tour with Klook or Viator (Tripadvisor).

Grand Palace, Bangkok

• Operating Hours: Daily from 8:30 to 15:30
• Admission Fee: 500 Baht
• Estimated time of visit: 2-3 hours

How To Get to Grand Palace Bangkok : Take the BTS (Skytrain) to Saphan Taksin (S6) station. From there, go to Sathorn Pier and take the Chao Phraya River Express or the local water taxi to Tha Chang pier. The orange flag boat costs 15 Baht and the Blue flag boat (faster) cost 40 Baht. Alternatively, a taxi, tuk-tuk, or Grab will get you to the Grand Palace.

Bangkok Travel Tips : Beware of scams when you are looking for the entrance of Grand Palace as those Tuk-tuk drivers will bring you to those small temples for a small fee. Just ignore them and walk to the entrance.

Wat Pho and Reclining Buddha

The “Wat” in Thai is the temple. Just 10 minutes’ walking distance to the south of the Grand Palace, is Wat Pho.  It is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and is known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha . It is home to the impressive 46m long and 15m tall gold-plated reclining Buddha and gets closer to this world-famous Buddha statue.

In Wat Pho, make sure to check out Phra Ubosot, considered to be the most sacred prayer room with its amazing architecture. You can also walk around and get lost between hundreds of Buddha statues. Definitely one of the places that you must see in Bangkok!

Wat Pho, Bangkok

• Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 to 18:30
• Admission Fee: 100 Baht
• Estimated time of visit: 1-2 hours

How To Get to Wat Pho : 10 minutes on foot from Grand Palace to Wat Pho. Alternatively, take the water taxi to Tha Tien Pier (No#8).

Lunch at Chao Praya River

After visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, it’s time to sit down for some Thai food lunch. There are many Thai restaurants along the Chao Praya river bank which offer a nice view. You can grab your lunch at one of the restaurants, or just simply walk-in into the small cafe in the area.

Next on the Bangkok itinerary is visiting the Wat Arun Temple.

Known as Temple of the Dawn, Wat Arun is featured with an 82-meter-high cortical-shaped tower decorated with ceramic tiles and colorful porcelains. It is one of the most beautiful structures in Bangkok and extremely photogenic, especially during sunset.

We recommend climbing to the top of the pagoda for a gorgeous view over the river!

Wat Arun, Bangkok

How To Get to Wat Arun : Take the ferry to cross the river from Wat Pho to Wat Arun at 3 Baht.

Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)

Keep the Chinatown for the last things to do of the day.

Bangkok Chinatown or Yaowarat Road is the best place to visit after the temple visit. Thanks to the mix of Chinese and Thai cultures, there are plenty of street food vendors if you want to indulge in delicious Thai Chinese food at cheap prices. Enjoy a stroll down the Chinatown to get a glimpse at how the city’s Chinese community lives in Thailand. The areas are open all day but lively at night. We came here for the mouthwatering food!

Have your dinner at Yaowarat! At night, there are many locals and travelers who can be seen along the streets enjoying the food. We loved the fresh seafood and have a food feast during our visit to Yaowarat. You can also buy the souvenir at Yaowarat Road as the price is cheaper compared to other places in Bangkok.

If you need some food recommendations, check out the Food Trip to Chinatown Bangkok: A Yaowarat Food Guide . Take note that most of the food stalls will be closed on Monday.

• Admission Fee: Free!

How to Get to Yaowarat : From Wat Arun, you can get to Yaowarat by tuk-tuk or Chao Phraya River Express boat. Just get off at Ratchawong Pier (No#5) and from there you can quickly get to the famous Yaowarat Road. If you are visiting Yaowarat from other places, we recommend just taking the grab or taxi to get to Yaowarat. Besides, with the recent opening of Wat Mangkon MRT station, getting to Chinatown is so much easier. The Wat Mangkon Station shortens the walking distance by roughly only 4 mins walk.

Bangkok Itinerary Day 2

On your second day, we recommend visiting a floating market and railway market to soak into the local life. The markets are located slightly outside of the city. So please include the traveling time from your hotel to the destinations. Next, back to the city center by visiting some malls or have a good relaxing spa massage, and end your day with a cocktail in one of the rooftop sky bars in Bangkok.

There are three unique Thai markets that can be put onto your Bangkok itinerary. For hassle-free, you can consider going for Bangkok Floating Markets Tour which includes the famous Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong Railway, and Amphawa Markets. However, if you are planning for self-DIY for Bangkok Floating Markets Tour, we recommend just choosing two markets due to time-limited and transport arrangements.

Bangkok Floating Markets Tour: Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong Railway, and Amphawa Markets

Bangkok Travel Guide Tips : If you prefer a day tour with transport arrangements to the floating markets and the Railway Market, here is a good one.

Amphawa Floating Market

The floating market is an authentic market for locals with people selling goods on boats. It is very popular in Thailand and worth visiting although most floating markets are located outskirts of the city. 

There are two popular floating markets close to Bangkok and can be planned on your Bangkok itinerary. Compared to the famous Damnoen Saduak, we recommended Amphawa Floating Market as it’s the local’s favorite and more authentic.

The Amphawa Floating Market is a popular weekend and day-trip destination. The market is a fun place to shop and enjoy local Thai food while experiencing the unique local culture. It is interesting to see people bargain on the boat. Alternatively, you can also experience it by taking a longtail boat ride to explore the surrounding canals and rivers.

• Travel Tips: Have your breakfast or lunch at Amphawa!

How to Get to Amphawa Floating Market : The easiest way is by minibus from the Victory Monument all the way straight to the doorstep of Amphawa Floating Market. Fare is around 100-150 baht one way. Remember to pre-book your returning time from the driver.

Maeklong Railway Market

One of the most unusual markets I’ve seen so far. The Maeklong Market was built on a railroad, and you’ll see the vendors selling the local produces during normal hours. However, all the vendors will be picking up their stalls to make way while the train passes through the market. These activities are repeated that still work today!

To witness this, be sure to check the train schedule so that you don’t miss it. You can consider visiting the Maeklong Market with an Organized Market Tour together with all the unique markets in Bangkok .

• Travel Tips: Be sure to check the train schedule so that you don’t miss the train show.

How to get to Maeklong Railway Market : Take a shared passenger truck (Songthaew) from Amphora Floating Market to Maeklong train market. The fare was around 8-10 baht.

Drink at Rooftop Bar

In the late evening, proceed to one of the city’s rooftop bars for excellent views of the skyline.

Thanks to Bangkok’sdense skyline, Rooftop bar drinking is one of the popular things to do in Bangkok. Travelers can admire the best bird-eye view of the city while sipping on a delicious drink. Share a romantic dinner with a gorgeous view of Bangkok and dine at the rooftop bar.

Here are several known best sky bars in Bangkok for you to hang out in your Bangkok itinerary:

• Sirocco at Lebua State Tower is a very famous Skybar in Bangkok that serves wine, cocktails, and Mediterranean dishes
• Vertigo is located on the 61st floor, atop the Banyan Tree Hotel.
• Sky on 20 which is located right above the Novotel hotel in Sukhumvit, serves delicious cocktails and bubble drinks.
• Moon Bar for a great view of the city in a chill environment.
• Rooftop Bar at Baiyoke Sky Hotel for buffet dinner. You make the reservation for dinner Buffet at 81st Baiyoke Sky Hotel .

Time to treat yourself to a drink and city best view!

Bangkok Itinerary Day 3

Shop till you drop at Bangkok! On your day 3 is a shopping itinerary that helps you go through some of the best shopping places in Bangkok. Shoppers will find 24 hours are not enough for shopping.

Chatuchak Market

Brace yourself in the biggest market in the world . The Chatuchak Weekend Market is so huge covering more than 1km with 15,000 stalls. divided into different sessions for the indoor and outdoor. The market has been in Bangkok for decades and still growing.

Here you’ll find almost everything in the market such as clothes, household products, souvenirs, artworks, and even furniture to bring home.

If you get hungry while shopping, there are many food stalls and markets where you can grab some popular Thai food. Coconut ice cream is the must-eat snack food in Chatuchak market to beat the infamous heat in Bangkok. Thai massage with air conditioning is also get be getting there if you want to have some rest while shopping.

Most of the time, we spend more than 6 to 7 hours walking in the market for non-stop eating and shopping . Plan your estimated allocation time here, or else you would be able to get out from the Chatuchak market. Everything is so freaking cheap. A day is not enough to cover the whole market!

As its name suggests, Chatuchak is only open on weekends . The Chatuchak weekend market is open from 9:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays and Sundays, and from 18:00 to 24:00 on Fridays. We recommended visiting early in the morning as it can be very hot during the afternoon. Besides, the market is extremely crowded. It’s best to keep your belonging under close watch.

• Estimated time of visit: At least 6 hours!

How to get to Chatuchak Market : Take the SkyTrain to Mo shit BTS station.

Shopping Mall and Market

If you’re not visiting Bangkok during the weekend, there are still many shopping malls and markets in Bangkok . Bangkok has some of the largest malls in the world for your shopping trip. Some malls even with nice interesting interiors that are worth going on a shopping adventure even if you’re not a shopper.

The big 4 shopping centers are located in the area and can easily spend hours and hours exploring. Here is a brief introduction to how to do your shopping in Bangkok:

• Siam Paragon – One of the high-end shopping malls in Bangkok, with all the luxury brands that you can think of.
• Central World Plaza – One of the largest malls in the world. Their festival decoration always catches visitors’ attention and comes here for visit.
• MBK Shopping Center – Probably the most popular mall for tourists. with good bargains for goods.
• Siam Discovery – A cool modern mall with top brands and designer stuff. Bangkok’s Madame Tussauds is located on the 6th floor,
• Platinum Mall and Pratunam market – Slightly away from the popular areas. But you can still use Tuk-tuk or grab to get there. Ladies’ paradise for clothes, shoes, bags, and more. A wholesale market. Here you’ll find the cheapest goods in Bangkok.

Bangkok Travel Guide Tips: Tired from all the walking? You can try a foot massage – there are cheap parlors everywhere in the city and the prices are around 250 Baht (8 US$) for one hour of a foot massage!

How to get there : Just take the Skytrain to Siam Station or Chit Lom Station and start your shopping sphere.

Erawan Siam

Located in the middle of Bangkok, Erawan Shrine is a very popular sport in the city among locals and tourists, and sometimes even more popular than some temples. Locals will stop by Erawan Shrine for prayer during their work or even during lunch break.

The Erawan Shrine is a shrine to the Hindu god Brahma, known to Thais as Phra Phrom. Throughout the day you’ll find worshippers offering flowers, incense sticks, and fruit to the Hindu god of creation. You may have the chance to see the Traditional Thai dance performances by the dancers hired by worshippers.

Erawan Shrine

• Estimated time of visit: 15 minutes

How to get to Erawan Shrine : If you’re shopping in the city, the Erawan Shrine is easy to reach via the Skywalk from Central World. A quick stop for a visit while making your way for shopping. Alternatively, the closest metro station is Chit Lom if you are purposely coming for the shrine.

Relaxing with Thai Massage

One of the things not to miss in Bangkok is to enjoy an authentic Thai massage. After a whole day of shopping and perspiring under the sun in the tourist spots in Bangkok, the best way to end the day is with a Thai or foot massage.

There are Thai massage parlors everywhere. For the best spa and massage experience in Bangkok, here are a few recommendations that you can consider:

• Let’s Relax Onsen is the best place for relaxing and indulging at a multi-awarded spa. Klook offers easy redemption for their Onsen experience in Bangkok. You can also include Thai massage in your visit.
• One More Thai Massage and Spa is another great option to Pamper yourself after a day of traveling around Bangkok. Conveniently located 1 minute away from Chit Lom BTS Station on foot.
• Alternatively, you can find many shops for spas or massages in the city, including back-alleys, and shopping malls for relaxation and recharge.

Short Trip from Bangkok

Obviously, if you have more time to spend, then you can’t go wrong with taking advantage of it. If you’re looking for short day trips from Bangkok, there are a few popular short trips that you can plan in your Bangkok Itinerary.

Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok – The historical city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. This tour will bring you to many attractions that are hard to reach outside of Bangkok. It includes a visit to the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, Wat Chaiwatthanarm, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, and Market Visit. Each attraction has its own unique characteristics that you can enjoy. One of the popular day trip from Bangkok.

Explore Khao Yai National Park and beyond – During our trip, you can appreciate this UNESCO-recognized site’s flora and fauna when you visit Farm Chokchai, Jim Thompson Farm, and more. Khao Yai is hard to access by public transport unless self- driving. Alternatively, you can customize your Khao Yat with Private Car Charter for 1, 2, or even 5 days.

Hua Hin is a perfect place to spend with family and friends. The place is the perfect mix of city and sand as you discover the district’s lively markets, natural landscapes, and a wide range of activities and experiences for you to try. You can customize your trip to visit the Vana Nava Waterpark, Kao San Roi Yot National Park, Swiss Sheep Farm, and mora ith customized tour from Klook. Check the Hua Hin Private Car Charter Custom Tour here .

Pattaya – For beach and sea, you can also include the popular Pattaya in your Bangkok itinerary. This is a popular destination for beach and nightlife from Bangkok. You have been visiting Pattaya and feel free to check out our Pattaya itinerary.

More Things To Do in Bangkok

In case you are wondering what to see in Bangkok if you have more time on hand, no worries – I got you covered! Here are some bonus best places to visit in Bangkok and things to do in this amazing city, sorted by the type of activity:

Safari World Bangkok – Kids always love visiting Zoo! For travelers with family and kids, the Safari World Bangkok is highly recommended. The Safari World consists of two parks and you can choose to visit either Safari Park, an open zoo, and Marine Park, or both parks in one day. Inside, visitors can have a close encounter with the animals and it is a truly amazing experience. You can also join a lot of activities and spectacular performances throughout the day such as the Dolphin Show, and the Spy and Elephant show at Marine Park. A great place for the family to spend a whole day activity.

Get discounted prices for Safari World Bangkok from Klook with easy redemption at the counter.

Bangkok Ocean World Aquarium – Have an encounter with over 400 marine species and 30,000 sea creatures during your visit to the Bangkok Ocean World Aquarium (formerly known as Siam Ocean World). Make sure to have enough time for the visit as there is so much marine life to watch and pay attention to the animal feeding time.

Klook offers a lower price with Skip-the-Line Ticket to access Bangkok Ocean World Aquarium .

Sompong Thai Cooking Class – Thai food is some of the best food in the world. If you are keen on how to make your own Thai food, you can join the cooking classes to learn about the Thai cooking style. You’ll get a great experience with the Sompong Thai cooking class with ingredients that are well prepared and ready for you. There are morning and afternoon classes for your option. Click here to check for the Sompong Thai Cooking Class .

Bangkok Arts and Thailand Cultural Centre – 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.

More Bangkok Travel Tips

Plenty of things to do in Bangkok and most of them required a lot of walking . Just be sure to wear your comfiest shoes and be prepared to walk under the heat! It can be daunting to enter this bustling city without a plan. It is best to have a brief idea of what to do for your days and attractions nearby the area so you can make the most of your day.

Stay connected by unlimited data with pocket devices or a wifi Sim card once touch down at Bangkok airport. The personnel will help you exchange it for your phone if you purchase it at the airport. It is very simple and very cheap. Get dtac HAPPY TOURIST 4G/5G SIM Card in Bangkok airport .

Always make sure to have an agreement for prices when riding tuk-tuk. Some drives drivers will often inflate the price for visitors when riding tuk-tuks. If you’re taking a taxi, be sure to ask for a meter taxi. Alternatively, e-hailing is getting common in Bangkok, especially Grab. Just download the app and call a ride on-demand, with a price displayed with Grab car in Bangkok. It is cheaper and safe.

Plenty of things to do can be planned for your Bangkok itinerary. If you are lazy and looking for hassle-free arrangements, you’ll still able to see and experience the best of Bangkok with a Full-Day Classic Bangkok Tour ! This tour will give you the classic Thailand vibe that every tourist deserves.

As a popular travel destination, there are many tourist scams in the city that offers various types of tours and services in town . Most of the time, this kind of tour will include some hidden charges and fees that you might not be aware of. In Bangkok, I suggest going through Klook (Reputation Travel Agency in Asia) or Viator (Tripadvisor company) as they are reputable companies with reliable customer service for many years.

Sometimes, there will be a friendly local approach to tourists and bring you to some attractions in Bangkok for free. Most of the time, they’ll try to get you to a gem shop or tailor as they will get a small amount of commission by bringing the visitor and purchasing the product from there. Just be aware!

Overview: A Trip To Bangkok

All in all, Bangkok is a truly vivid and unique city in the world . The city has so much to offer that any traveler will find something to do for the short gateway or long holiday. With the mouthwatering Thai food, cultural attractions, lively markets and shopping malls, beauty natural, and smiling locals, Bangkok has it all. I am sure you will have a great time on your Bangkok trip and 3 days in Bangkok is a great introduction to this amazing city.

One thing to keep in mind no matter how long you have to dedicate to your Bangkok travel itinerary is that it is always new places and things to do to discover, and impossible to see absolutely everything in a single trip. So make sure to prioritize what you want to visit and I’m sure you’ll still come back for your next visit!

Thank you for reading this Bangkok travel guide blog. Did you enjoy this Bangkok itinerary? We have more useful information as well as some bonus travel tips in below Bangkok travel blog for your holiday.

• Where To Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels

Traveling to Bangkok for food? Here is the best food listed to help you decide where and what to eat in Bangkok.

Bangkok Food Guide: Where and What To Eat in Bangkok

• Food Trip to Chinatown Bangkok: A Yaowarat Food Guide

Rung Rueang: Bangkok Michelin Bib Gourmand Pork Noodles

• Bangkok Best Food: Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice

Planning a beach holiday to Phuket? Get to know more before planning your trip to Phuket.

• How to Plan Your Phuket Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where to Stay in Phuket: Top 7 Areas on Island
• Island Hopping Tour to Koh Phi Phi: A Travel Guide Blog

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A Guide to Bangkok’s Floating Markets

Explore Bangkok's vibrant floating markets, from Taling Chan to Kwan Riam, savoring authentic delicacies and unique experiences they offer. Read more.

28 June 2024

2 minutes

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For many travellers, the famous floating markets of Bangkokare high on the agenda when planning a visit to  Thailand’s capital . There are plenty of tour operators in Bangkokthat offer tours of these markets, which sit on the outskirts of the city. Mostexcursions start before sunrise, to truly capture the floating markets at theirbusiest, so be sure to get an early night. And remember to dress the part; best to wearclothes you’re not afraid to get a little dirty as you may find yourselfenjoying a meal sitting on the pier floor!

Taling Chan Floating Market

Taling Chan  is one of Bangkok’s most accessible floating markets, located just a fewkilometres outside the city. Though one of the smaller markets around, Taling Chan Floating Market maintains an authenticcharm and is less crowded with tourists than other larger markets, giving yousome room to appreciate the environment and food at local prices.

Take the chance to chat with some locals as you enjoy boat after boat of tasty food. Fill up on smoky grilled seafood on wooden sticks topped off withrefreshing, creamy coconut ice cream. While all the seafood at Taling Chan Floating Marketcomes highly recommended, keep a special eye out for Som Tum and theirbarbecued prawns, fish and blue crabs. For a different perspective at a small price, you can rent your own long-tail boat and explorethe market from the water for just 100 baht.

Treat yourself to a soothing massage beneath the trees after you’ve scoured the market for the best delicacies on offer.

Kwan Riam Floating Market

Located on the bank of Saen Saeb canal near the outskirts of Bangkok, Kwan Riam Floating Market  is one of the newest additions to Bangkok’s colourful array of floating markets. 

At first glance, KwanRiam gives off a more modern vibe with a built-up wooden structure for themarket’s many land vendors. Fans on the ceiling blow cool mist at eagervisitors and hawkers, keeping everyone comfortable and relaxed. Still, themarket does not neglect the customs and eats that make the floating market experienceso unique. 

Here, traditional Thai favourites like meat skewers and exotic icecreams mingle with younger café set-ups and international flavours likeVietnamese spring rolls and noodle soup. This market is popular with localuniversity students who you can find enjoying a meal on boats while hip hopmusic blasts unapologetically nearby.

You’ll also find local crafts on display, with everything going atreasonable pricesdespite the modern comforts. 

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak  is perhaps the most famous floating market in Bangkok. It is also one of the busiest, with thousands of locals andtourists flocking to its piers every day — and it’s not hard to see why.

This buzzing hive of activity attracts all kinds of boats overflowingwith fresh delicacies, juicy fruit and perfumed flowers. Soak in the market’svibrancy and remember to snap some priceless photos. The bursts of coloureverywhere make a picturesque, postcard backdrop for the holiday album.

Despite some complaints that Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has become more commercialin recent times, this iconic attraction is always worth a visit. No list of Bangkok’s best floating marketscan be complete without it.

Besides, where else can you enjoy the experienceof buying a meal off a boat and having it served to you on a fishing pole?

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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A Snob's Guide to What's New in the Hamptons This Summer

Our guide to the hotels, restaurants, spas, and stores gracing the East End this season.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

For the past few summers, the Hamptons have felt busier than ever. With remote work and summer Fridays, any weekend can be a long weekend if you catch the Jitney (or the Blade ‘copter) on time.

To capture the ever increasing crowds, Hamptons hotels and restaurants are remodeling, relaunching, and reintroducing themselves. That’s alongside a crop of newcomers and a solid chunk of New York City mainstays following their customers down Highway 27-A.

So, whether you're delighted or devastated that Zero Bond hasn’t been able to open in East Hampton yet, we’ve gathered options to spice up your summer rotation.

Arthur & Sons

A new outpost of the popular West Village Italian-American restaurant Arthur & Sons opened in Bridgehampton in May. It’s “for anyone wanting a full Italian-style meal but also a lively atmosphere,” said Andrew Warren, the socialite and content creator.

Casa Sereña at The Surf Lodge

The sceney Hamptons party spot needs no introduction—everyone from the Kardashians to Jimmy Buffet have been spotted at the beachside hotel-meets-concert venue. But, this year, the hotspot added a new restaurant, Casa Sereña at The Surf Lodge , serving a Mediterranean-Asian inspired menu—think mezze, seafood towers and crudos. Afterwards, catch a concert outside; this year’s lineup includes Diplo (July 4) and Duke Dumont (August 24).

The California brand , known for breezy dresses and lacey tops often has a line outside its West Village outpost. Expect the new Sag Harbor spot to be equally popular, as Hamptonites rush to secure their beach cover ups.

The invite-only pilates studio , with locations in LA and New York, followed its clients to Sag Harbor for the summer. Expect a tough, energizing workout that can offset a night at Surf Lodge… maybe.

Gurney's Montauk

Gurney’s is a Hamptons standby, but this summer it's exploring a high fashion collab. Dolce & Gabbana is revamping the hotel’s Beach Club and East Deck outdoor area, from the decor to the cocktails, giving the whole place an air of the Amalfi Coast. The takeover begins July 4th weekend.

Perhaps you’re still trying to get your hands on Khaite’s sheer ballet flats. It’s worth trying the brand’s new East Hampton store—one of just three Khaite stores worldwide—that opened in May.

The West Village pizza joint Lil Charli opened in the Hamptons with Roman-style pizzas and late night hours. Closing time is at 4am on Friday and Saturday nights—a rarity for East Hampton.

The Los Angeles-based streetwear company, popular with celebrities and teenage girls alike, opened a modern, airy popup shop in Southampton, perfect for grabbing some post-beach loungewear.

The Maidstone

LDV Hospitality, best known for Scarpetta, took over the Maidstone , a 150-year-old East Hampton mainstay, and gave it a much needed upgrade and a new restaurant, LDV at the Maidstone, run by chef Jorge Espinoza. The restaurant aims to bring “Italian Summer” to the Hamptons with trademark pastas and an aperitivo hour. We’ll meet you there for a Spritz.

A new Montauk steakhouse from James Beard-nominated chef Jeremy Blutstein , Mavericks emphasizes local ingredients and an extensive wine list, with over 500 options. They also opened a beachside bar, Shark Bar, nearby for frozen cocktails and a classic beachy menu.

Montauk Yacht Club

The Montauk Yacht Club is yet another Hamptons classic that's had some tasteful work done. The hotel is under new management: Proper Hospitality, known for spots like the Santa Monica Proper in Los Angeles. The rooms are beachy and modern, and guests can spend time at the hotel’s two pools or tennis, volleyball, or padel courts. There's also a new restaurant and bar, the seafood-forward Ocean Club Montauk.

The Rams Head Inn

Venturing up to Shelter Island, the Rams Head Inn is also under new ownership and just went through a significant remodel. The resort now has a new dock, beach dining and a beach bar, all off the property’s 900-ft private beach.

The Reform Club

The boutique Amagansett hotel is bringing back its Meeting House restaurant, which closed in 2017. Replacing Wölffer Kitchen, the eatery's new menu includes crowd favorites like macaroni and cheese and a raw bar, as well as a prime steak dinner option. The hotel is also the headquarters for Pop Up Bagel's summer residency, dishing out the TikTok-famous, pull apart bagels every weekend morning.

The Row and the Hamptons are a match made in fashion heaven, so it’s no surprise that the brand set up shop Out East in the former Tiina the Store space.

Ruschmeyers

The campground-style Montauk hotel starts the season with two new food and beverage offerings: Placēbö , a Puerto Rican New American fusion restaurant (pictured), and Don Jaguar’s, a speakeasy with cocktails and small bites. The 19-room hotel also got a refresh under hospitality group El Grupo SN, best known for Somewhere Nowhere and 9 Jones in Manhattan.

Sag Harbor Tavern

Chef Billy Durney, the owner of Red Hook Tavern and Hometown Bar-B-Que, opened up a spot in Sag Harbor , bringing his famous burger out East. It’s already a tough table to score—and if you’re a real pro, you’ll aim for one of the tufted booths.

Staud and Staud Sea

Sarah Staudinger’s namesake brand opened up not one, but two shops in East Hampton. One for the main brand, Staud , with its chic sets and beaded handbags, and the other across the street for Staud’s swimwear line, Staud Sea.

Veronica Beard

Do you really want to be the only Hamptons mom without a Veronica Beard blazer? The brand’s new store in East Hampton, filled with variations on linen and raffia, opened just before Memorial Day Weekend.

Wayan & Ma•dé

These two NYC hotspots are combining to pop up in the Hamptons. The Indonesian eateries from Chef Cédric Vongerichten, son of the famed Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, are holding court in East Hampton Wednesdays through Sundays until September 2.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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Capybaras Are the New Axolotls

Before axolotls were everywhere, the “It” stuffed animal was a sloth , and before that it was a llama , and before that it was a narwhal . Now there’s a new kid in town: the capybara.

The South American rodents are furry, stout, and cartoonishly oversize — adults weigh more than 100 pounds — but also remarkably friendly and chill. They’ve been steadily rising in stature. Encanto featured a scene-stealing capybara , back in 2021, that still gets love online. There is a viral capybara song , hugely popular TikToks of capybaras soaking and eating giant yuzu in Japanese onsens , and countless memes and GIFs. (My husband is a fourth-grade teacher and says one of his students this year was so obsessed that they regularly used capybara GIFs in class presentations.) Taylor Moore, a social-media manager for the San Diego Zoo, told the newsletter Link in Bio that in addition to posts about elephants, the zoo’s posts about capybaras get the highest engagement. And now toymakers are obviously taking notice: Jellycat, known for its nontraditional stuffed animals and its influence in the toy world (the staff of the Strategist last year could not get enough of this jaunty stuffed shrimp ), recently released Clyde Capybara . And a capybara from Pusheen that has a cat and a yuzu on its back was so popular it sold out two days after it launched on June 25. (You can sign up for back-in-stock notifications on the product page .)

The path from meme to mass market to status stuffie requires a very specific recipe. Like the axolotl, the animal must have a name that’s fun to say; bonus points if it’s also hard to spell. It has to be cute and funny and a little bit ugly — jolie laide, if you will. Capybaras check all these boxes, plus they are cuddly and have cute personalities in real life. They are smart, social herbivores that like to swim and are often kept as pets , like an irresistible mix between a corgi, a hippo, and a pony.

“The weirder it is, the more kids tend to gravitate toward it,” says Alexis Bobbitt, owner of the Park Slope toy store Little Green and parent of a 4-year-old son who is obsessed with capybaras. Bobbitt told me that when kids of all ages come into her shop, they seem to prefer the offbeat stuffed animals she carries over the traditional bunnies, dogs, and cats. And what’s weirder than a 100-pound rodent who loves a spa day? Below are my favorite capybara toys available to buy right now. And if you notice any other especially oddball stuffies, consider adding them to your cart too — based on insider intel, if I had to bet on what might show up in toy stores come 2026, the  blobfish  and a specific type of long-fingered lemur called an  Aye Aye  are solid contenders.

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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