Things To Do
in Bangkok
Bangkok, the vibrant capital city of Thailand, is known for its bustling streets, opulent royal palaces, ancient temples, and the iconic Chao Phraya River that flows through its heart, providing a scenic backdrop to the city's lively urban sprawl. The city is a melting pot of cultures, offering a tantalizing mix of spicy street food, upscale dining, and bustling markets alongside sophisticated malls.
Bangkok is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife, ranging from lively street markets to high-end rooftop bars, making it a city that truly never sleeps and offers something for every type of traveler.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Palace, where you can admire stunning architecture and learn about Thailand's history. Don't forget to visit Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha.
Head to Wat Pho to see the famous Reclining Buddha and enjoy a traditional Thai massage. Afterward, stroll through the nearby flower market for vibrant local sights and scents.
Dine along the Chao Phraya River and enjoy the city lights on a dinner cruise. Afterward, explore the bustling night markets for shopping and street food.
Begin your day at Wat Arun, an iconic riverside temple known for its stunning spires. Take in the sunrise views and snap some beautiful photos.
Visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market (if visiting on the weekend) for an array of local goods and street food. Alternatively, explore the Jim Thompson House to learn about Thai silk and culture.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Khao San Road, filled with bars and live music. Grab dinner at a street vendor before exploring the lively night scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous temples and historical sites.
- Vibrant street food scene offering diverse and affordable cuisine.
- Lively nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western cities.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
- Heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- High humidity and temperatures can be uncomfortable for some.
- Air pollution issues, particularly during certain times of the year.
- Tourist areas can be overcrowded and commercialized.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Thai speakers.
Best Activities in Bangkok
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a walk or enjoy a picnic in this green oasis in the heart of Bangkok, known for its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Embark on a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River to enjoy breathtaking views of Bangkok's skyline and iconic landmarks.
Explore the bustling market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of goods, including handicrafts, clothing, and local street food.
Discover the historic side of Bangkok by joining a guided bicycle tour through the city's old districts, including visits to ancient temples and traditional neighborhoods.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bangkok with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bangkok
Visit one of these nice places.
A Buddhist temple with a central spire and stunning river views.
A hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city.
An iconic rooftop bar with breathtaking cityscape views.
A tranquil oasis in the city offering natural scenery for photography.
Food in Bangkok
Bangkok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A stir-fried noodle dish, typically made with shrimp, tofu, or chicken, and flavored with tamarind, fish sauce, and lime. Find authentic Pad Thai at Thipsamai Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A spicy and sour shrimp soup featuring lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. A recommended spot to try this is at Krua Apsorn.
A creamy coconut milk-based curry with tender chicken, eggplant, and fragrant Thai basil. Visit The Sixth for an exceptional Green Curry experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bangkok better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of dishes from various regions of Thailand such as grilled skewers, mango sticky rice, and coconut ice cream.
Discover an abundance of street food stalls and vendors offering delectable dim sum, fresh seafood, and the renowned crispy pork belly.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to show respect for the Thai monarchy, as criticism of the royal family is taken very seriously in Thailand.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, it's courteous to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for the local culture.
It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, as well as in certain public places like temples and some shops.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bangkok with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bangkok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Bangkok, Thailand is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in certain situations such as at high-end restaurants or for exceptional service.
Cash is widely used in Bangkok, but major credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in areas where credit cards may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bangkok.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the cool season with mild temperatures and low humidity, making it the most popular time to visit Bangkok. Expect clear skies and pleasant weather.
These months constitute the hot season, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C. Visitors can expect high humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
This is the rainy season, with frequent downpours and high humidity. However, it's also a time when the countryside is lush and green.
Bangkok at Night
Hiking in Bangkok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Khao Yai National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Bangkok and offers a range of hiking trails that lead through lush forest, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Located around 1.5 hours from Bangkok, Pattaya offers several hiking trails, with scenic views of the coastline and lush landscapes.
Approximately 3 hours from Bangkok, this national park is famous for its stunning waterfall and offers various trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Just over an hour from Bangkok, Muak Lek features several hiking routes amid beautiful countryside settings and rice fields.
Located around 2 hours from Bangkok, Suan Phueng is known for its scenic nature trails, cool climate, and beautiful mountainous landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bangkok through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bangkok by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok and one of the busiest in Southeast Asia.
One of Thailand's oldest airports, primarily serving low-cost carriers and domestic flights.
Located closer to the eastern part of Thailand, it primarily serves international flights to and from regional destinations.
Though not in Bangkok, it's a major hub in northern Thailand and serves international flights.
One of the largest airports in Thailand located in Phuket, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Bangkok, comprising about 80% of the population.
A significant minority in Bangkok, with many being Thai-Chinese, contributing to the city's economy and culture.
A small but notable group primarily found in Southern Thailand, including some presence in Bangkok.
Includes both the South Asian community and those of Indian descent in mixed backgrounds, influencing trade and cuisine.
Includes expatriates from various Western countries, often residing in business and tourist areas.
Includes people from neighboring countries such as Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, as well as other Asian nations.
A smaller demographic group consisting of individuals from various African nations, often involved in business and education.
The Soul of Bangkok
Discover the essence of Bangkok through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and national sport of Thailand, known as the 'Art of Eight Limbs' due to its use of punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.
A widely popular team sport in Bangkok, with many local clubs and a strong following for both domestic and international matches.
A popular racquet sport in Thailand, often played recreationally and competitively, with many local tournaments and clubs.
Gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with numerous street courts and organized league play throughout the city.
A commonly played team sport in schools and communities, both indoors and on the beach, with local competitions.
A popular individual sport in Bangkok, with many clubs, public courts, and competitive tournaments available.
A favored leisure sport in Thailand, featuring numerous golf courses around Bangkok and regular tournaments.
An increasingly popular recreational activity and mode of transport, with bike paths and community cycling events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bangkok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bangkok offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries such as Broccoli Revolution and May Veggie Home, serving plant-based Thai and international dishes.
While gluten-free options are not as prevalent, certain restaurants like Ethos Vegan Kitchen and Rasayana Raw Food Café provide gluten-free and organic dining experiences.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bangkok with these cultural adventures.
