NOTICE: The content on this page has been updated as best we can in light of COVID-19. Please double-check attractions, activities, and so on before you travel since things might change rapidly.
DISCLAIMER: Due to current travel limitations, some of the material on this page may have changed. Verification of information and checking with the appropriate authorities for the most recent travel instructions are both implied by your further reading of this material. Please take precautions to keep yourself safe.
DISCLOSURE: Affiliate links and sponsorships may appear in some of our content (disclosed at the bottom). Our terms of service include further details.
Bangkok Travel Guide: Quick Views
This Bangkok travel guide is rather lengthy. I’ve gathered a list of hotels, hostels, tours, and other activities for your convenience.
Hotels and Hostels
Top-rated hotels in Siam, one of the best areas to stay for first-time visitors to Bangkok.
- Luxury: The St. Regis Bangkok
- Midrange: Pathumwan Princess Hotel – SHA Certified
- Budget: Siam Stadium Hostel
Tours
- Sightseeing Tour: Bangkok Old City Half Day Tour by Oriental Holiday
- Food Tour: Chef-Designed Bangkok Food Tour For 8 Exclusive Guests
Othet Services
- Travel Insurance (with COVID cover)
- Airport Transfers: Suvarnabhumi | Don Mueang
- Private Transfer: Suvarnabhumi | Don Mueang
Table of Contents
Thailand Travel Restrictions
There are so many variables in the present world environment that Bangkok travel advice is always being revised and updated. Agoda, one of our favorite online travel agencies, has compiled a comprehensive database of travel limitations from all around the world.
Before booking a trip to Bangkok, check Agoda for information on Thailand travel restrictions.
If you want to go to Bangkok, you may want to consider purchasing COVID travel insurance.
In Bangkok, Thailand, the chaotic streets, inexpensive street food, crazy nightlife, and never-ending traffic make it one of the world’s most popular destinations. Most visitors have a strong opinion on how they feel about it.
Most tourists just stop by briefly on their way around Thailand on their way to or from their next destination. However, there is a lot to see and do in Bangkok despite its reputation.
People despise the city because they have no idea where they are. You may find a wealth of things to see, do, eat, and drink in Bangkok if you look beyond the turmoil. When you get beyond the temples and the backpacker pubs, it’s a city that reveals itself to those who are eager to explore. This Bangkok travel guide helps you plan the vacation of a lifetime by showing you there’s more to Thailand’s “Land of Smiles” than you thought.
Thailand Visa
You may require a visa and other travel papers to visit Thailand, depending on your passport.
Visit our post-Thailand Visa to learn about visa requirements and apply for one (if necessary).
Bangkok At A Glance
Bangkok is Thailand’s capital and the country’s most populous city. Tourists flock to the city every year, making it one of the world’s most popular destinations.
According to Travel+Leisure magazine, Bangkok has been voted the “World’s Best City” for the last four consecutive years. To understand why just spend a few days there.
Tourists from all walks of life flock to Bangkok because of its plethora of attractions.
Do you like going to the shops? You’ll never run out of things to do in Bangkok, thanks to places like Chatuchak Market and Siam Square.
It’s no surprise that CNN has ranked Bangkok as the world’s best street food destination.
Also, don’t allow a limited budget to deter you from participating. The backpacking capital of the world, Khaosan Road, can be enjoyed for as low as USD 10-15 a day.
There is something for everyone to enjoy in Bangkok. It’s more than just a gateway to Thailand; it’s a vibrant and cheap city in its own right. It’s the destination for many travelers.
Bangkok Travel Costs
Bangkok is not an expensive city. Hostel rooms start at USD 5 per night, and meals cost less than USD 2 a dish. Its low-cost reputation adds to its allure.
Assuming you’ll be in Bangkok for 4 days and sharing mid-range accommodations with one other person, daily expenditure of roughly THB 1,500 per person should be enough. This includes your accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, food, drinks, and pocket wifi rental.
Here is a short breakdown of costs:
Accommodation:
Hostel prices: This is determined by a variety of factors, including hotel selection and the number of travel companions. On our most recent vacation, we spent less than THB 1,300 per night in a nice AirBnB near the Chao Phraya River. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to spend substantially less.
The cost of private rooms in these sorts of hostels varies. Although there is a growing hostel culture downtown, I find the rooms to be costly – particularly when you can obtain cheaper accommodation and meet more people on Khao San Road. Some private double rooms in popular hotels cost 1,000 THB (USD 32).
Budget hotel prices: Private rooms in modest guesthouses or hotels, particularly those on Khao San Road’s backpacker area, start at 300 THB (USD 9.50). Hot water and private restrooms are frequently included. Single rooms in other locations start at 220 THB/$7 USD (fan, shared bathroom) and double rooms start at 320 THB/$10 USD (fan, shared bathroom).
If you want a quality hotel room, expect to spend about 920 THB (USD 30) for a double.
Quality varies widely, so read internet reviews before purchasing. Most hotels have complimentary internet and air conditioning, and many also provide complimentary breakfast.
Full flats for rent on Airbnb start at 1,590 THB (USD 50). Although it is not a cheap hotel, Aloft Hotel is one of my favorite places to use Starwood points.
Cost of food:
In Bangkok, you may obtain a meal from a street seller for as low as 30 THB (USD 0.95) (soup, pad thai, fried rice, som tam, etc.), a bag of freshly cut fruit, or Thai ice tea for 20 THB (USD 0.65), or a grilled chicken, rice, and som tam dinner for 150 THB (USD 4.75). Pad Thai Thip Samai serves the greatest pad thai in town. A fairly full meal costs 45 THB (USD 1.40).
The price of a dinner at a sit-down restaurant starts at 50 THB (USD 1.50). (Try Aisa Rot Dee, which is hidden off Tanee Road!). The western meal starts at about 100 THB (USD 3.15) and goes up from there. A Western breakfast or lunch will cost between 150-200 THB ($4.75-6.35 USD) if you dine downtown. Many malls offer massive (and popular) food courts where you can enjoy a substantial lunch for as little as 40 THB (USD 1.25).
If you eat at the street markets like the natives, you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than 200 THB (USD 6.35) every day on food (and maybe not even close to that). Going to bars can become expensive when it comes to drinking, with the cheapest beers costing about 60 THB (USD 2) apiece and cocktails occasionally costing double or treble that. Buying beers at 7-Eleven to consume on the street, on the other hand, may cost up to 30 THB (USD 0.95) per can.
Entrance Fees:
Entrance fees for all of the sites featured in this guide’s places to visit section total THB 1,500.
Pocket Wifi Rental:
If you’re sharing the cost with one other person, then you’ll each be paying about THB 75 per day. If not, you’ll pay ~$150 per day. You can buy here with discounted price
I recommend using 4G Sim Card with Unlimited Internet for 8 days(pick up at the airport), It was extremely convenient. When you arrive, a SIM card with a very low tariff is already waiting for you at the airport!. You can buy it through Klook at a discount price
Transportation
The maximum you’ll pay on a single BTS Skytrain is THB 55. However, as previously mentioned, you will most likely use a cab or Grab a few times. I believe that THB 150 per day per person is appropriate for transportation.
I recommend using Rabbit Card, It was very conveniently located near ARL at the airport basement. To claim the card in the Klook counter near the train entrance. It is so fast and no queue. Using it also is hassle-free. You can buy it through Klook at a discount price.
One thing to remember, when topping upload, they need your passport.
For details information, take a look at these posts:
Bangkok Suggested Budgets:
Bangkok is open to visitors of any budget.
A backpacker budget in Bangkok is around 946 THB (USD 30) per day. This includes a lower-end hostel dorm, all meals at street food booths, beverages, a few temples, and public transportation.
Expect to spend 1,890 THB (USD 60) each day on a mid-range budget. On this budget, you’ll stay in a 2-star hotel/guest house with a private room (fan only), dine at more local sit-down restaurants and have a few more beverages, indulge in a few cabs, and see more cities sites.
You won’t be able to live the high life on this amount each day, but you won’t go hungry either.
Couchsurfing may also help you save money. Budget roughly 1,272 THB (USD 40) each day if you want to have more fun, stay downtown, and maybe have some finer meals or a massage or two.
You may spend around 4,100 THB (USD 130) each day on a more comfortable luxury budget. This includes a luxurious 4-star hotel with air conditioning, any meal, any quantity of beverages, as many sites and cookery excursions as you desire, and everything in between. Anything over this will get you everything you desire!
You may use the table below to get an estimate of how much you should budget each day based on your travel style. Keep in mind that these are daily averages; some days you will spend more, while others you will spend less (you might spend less every day). We only want to provide you with a rough notion of how to create a budget. Prices are in US dollars.
Bangkok Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips
Bangkok may be a reasonably priced city if you avoid the more expensive or Western-influenced establishments. Stick to Thai restaurants and inexpensive accommodation and you won’t have to spend much money, but here are some methods to save money in Bangkok:
- Eat at the street stalls: Food from street sellers in Thailand is some of the tastiest Thai food I’ve ever tasted, and it’s ridiculously cheap. For 30 THB (USD 0.95), you may easily have a bowl of noodle soup, pad thai, or fried rice. The locals eat here, and you should as well. It’s not just the tastiest meal in town, but it’s also the cheapest!
- Make sure your taxi’s meter is turned on: When traveling internationally, all taxis are required to use a meter. However, most would prefer to charge a higher ‘flat fee’ (rather than using the meter), particularly if there is traffic. If this occurs, just walk away and see if another cab will switch on their meter for you.
- Read more: Scams In Thailand
- Negotiate with the drivers of tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuk drivers, unlike taxi drivers, do not have meters, so make careful to agree on a fixed fare before you start. They are quite polite, but if you play the gullible tourist, you will get taken advantage of!
- Use public transportation with Rabbit Card: Bangkok’s extensive bus and BTS networks are used by locals to navigate about the city. You may do the same to save money. A 20-minute cab journey may cost you 120 THB (USD 3.80), yet a bus ride may just cost you 10 THB (USD 0.30). You’ll also escape the hassle of inner-city traffic if you use the subway instead of a taxi.
- Avoid drinking on Khao San Road: While enjoyable, a night out on Khao San Road’s backpacker district will leave your pocketbook empty. And, when it comes to drinking, stick to beer. Cocktails and wine are generally imported and subject to substantial taxes, therefore they are far more expensive than local beer.
- Make use of the boats: In Bangkok, there is a restricted canal system that may carry you across the city faster (particularly from Khao San Road to Siam Square) and cheaper than taxis or the SkyTrain. Prices range from 5 to 15 THB ($0.16-0.48 USD) depending on the distance.
- Read more details here: Water Transportation in Thailand
- How to Get Around Bangkok by Ferry and River Boat (Local & Tourist Ways)
- The Ultimate Guide to Chao Phraya River Navigation.
- Couchsurfing: Nothing beats a free night’s sleep. Couchsurfing links you with locals who will not only provide you with a free place to stay but also a local tour guide who will show you all the best spots to visit.
- Stay in hotels: Bangkok has a variety of hostels, several of which have recently opened to fulfill the demand of travelers. Every part of the city will have exciting, clean, well-designed, and inexpensive hostels. So, even if you’ve never been to a hostel before, start here. Because of the intense rivalry, the quality of hostels has risen.
- Take a free walking tour of the city: Free walking tours let you travel about a city while also learning some fascinating facts and history. Strawberry Tours and Bangkok Walking Tours are two options.
- Hard bargaining: Use your negotiating talents while purchasing at the marketplaces. The general rule is that the more you purchase, the lower the prices will be. So shop in packs for the best deals.
- Rideshares are a great way to save money: Uber, which was formerly offered in Thailand, has been replaced by Grab. Using the Grab app, you may order a ride from a local and pay through the app or with cash. It’s typically less expensive than taking a taxi!
- Make use of a water bottle with a purifier: It’s not safe to drink the tap water in Phi Phi, and although bottled water is inexpensive, it adds up – pick up a LifeStraw (it’s also good for the environment!) instead.
Best Time To Visit Bangkok
In the same way that Manila has a year-round tropical environment, Bangkok has just two seasons: wet and dry.
There are two distinct seasons: a dry one (November-April) and a wet one (May-October). The warmest months are March-May, whereas the rainiest months are August and September.
Bangkok is best visited between November and February because of the dry and colder weather. However, this is peak season, so expect to pay more.
November-February: The weather in Bangkok is great between November and February. It’s a lot less humid, and it’s a lot less rainy. In addition, it’s the busiest time of year for tourists, so anticipate longer lines and somewhat higher pricing.
March-May: the warmest months of the year are from March through May in Bangkok. It’s not the best time to come since the temperature often reaches 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This is not the case with Songkran, the Thai New Year, which occurs in April. It’s a blast to be in Bangkok during this three-day water battle celebration.
June-October: beginning in June, Bangkok has its normal rainy season, which lasts until the beginning of November. It’s the off-season in Bangkok at this time of year.
Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Bangkok
I made the graphs below to show you how much rain and how much temperature we get in Bangkok yearly. Orange denotes the ideal time of year to visit.
Average Temperature
Annual Rainfall
Travel To Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) are the two international airports in Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi is Bangkok’s main international airport, therefore most visitors will get there through this route.
Here’s basically how you travel from either airport to the heart of Bangkok’s downtown area.
From Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
- By Train: If you’re flying into Suvarnabhumi, this is the fastest route to downtown Bangkok. You can take the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi to Phaya Thai Station (THB 45). You may then take the BTS Skytrain line to the station closest to your hotel. You may buy tickets at the station, but if you buy them in advance via Klook, you’ll receive a Shock price.
- By Bus: Taking the S1 bus from Suvarnabhumi to Khaosan Road is the best way to go. Passengers may get the THB 60 bus every 30 minutes from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the first-floor passenger terminal’s Gate 7.
- By Taxi or Grab: You should expect to pay roughly THB 400 for a cab ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok’s city center (with airport surcharge and toll). Taxi scams are common in Bangkok, so be sure the driver is using the meter.
- By Private Transfer: this is the most convenient and comfortable choice, but it is also the most costly. Private transport from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to downtown Bangkok is available here: Suvarnabhumi
From Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
- By Train: Because there are no BTS or MRT stations at Don Mueang, you must take a bus or cab from the airport to the closest train station, Mo Chit. If you’re taking the bus, the A1 bus stops just outside the terminal. The bus to Mo Chit BTS Station costs THB 30 and operates every 15 minutes or so between 7:30 AM and 11:30 PM*. When you arrive at Mo Chit Station, take the BTS to the station closest to your accommodation.
- By Bus: From Don Mueang, take the A2, A3, or A4 bus to Victory Monument (A2), Pratunam and Lumpini Park (A3), or Khao San Road (A4) and Sanam Luang(A4). The price is THB 30-50, and it operates about every 30 minutes from 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM*. We’ve never ridden a bus in Bangkok, but it seems that buses are often overcrowded. As a result, you may be better off taking it to Mo Chit and then taking the train the rest of the way.
- By Taxi or Grab: A taxi ride from Don Mueang to central Bangkok should cost roughly THB 350. (with airport surcharge and toll). As suggested, ensure that the driver uses the meter.
- Read more: Scams in Thailand
- By Private Transfer: this is the most convenient and comfortable choice, but it is also the most costly. Private transportation from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) to downtown Bangkok is available here: Don Mueang
*Because several sources provide contradictory information on bus schedules, these are approximations based on what I’ve read.
From Other Ports of Entry
We flew to Bangkok but depending on where you are, there are various options. I recommend visiting 12go.Asia to see what route possibilities are available to you. You may use the widget below or click on the link.
Where To Exchange Currency
Thailand’s national currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Thailand’s national currency is the Thai Baht (THB). According to what I’ve read, SuperRich has some of the best currency rates in Bangkok.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, I exchanged a modest quantity of cash and received a rate of 31.28.
Later that day, at a SuperRich location, I received a rate of 33.05 percent.
I recommend changing a modest amount of money at the airport, no more than USD 100, to get you into the city. The rest may be changed at SuperRich. This link will take you to a list of
If you’re concerned about carrying too much foreign cash, you might withdraw THB from an ATM instead. The prices are similar.
Just be sure you notify your bank that you want to use your ATM card overseas to avoid any issues. My ATM card, in my experience, works in certain machines but not in others.
Note: Some ATMs may give you the option of proceeding “with or without conversion”. Always proceed WITHOUT conversion. Proceeding with conversion allows the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion for you, usually at terrible exchange rates.
Best Areas To Stay In Bangkok
Finding a place to stay in Bangkok might be challenging. It’s a vast city, and although the metro system is handy, it doesn’t serve as many locations as it could.
As a result, I believe it is ideal to remain in a business area that is as close to a BTS or MRT station as feasible. This way, you’ll have convenient access to the metro and won’t have to rely on Taxi or Grab to go about.
In downtown Bangkok, there are eight popular tourist accommodation areas: Sukhumvit, Siam, Silom, Pratunam, Riverside, Chinatown, the Old City (Rattanakosin), and Chatuchak.
Because of Bangkok’s infamous rush hour traffic, foreign travelers arriving and departing at odd hours often stay near Suvarnabhumi Airport, therefore that’s the ninth.
We’ve gone to Bangkok many times and have stayed in most of these neighborhoods.
If you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time, I recommend staying in the Siam or Sukhumvit districts. They provide the ideal blend of shopping, dining, and transit convenience.
To help you visualize where all of these suggested locations are, I’ve prepared the color-coded map below. To see an interactive version of the map, click on the link. (Please keep in mind that the highlighted regions are simply estimates.)
- Bangkok Riverside – Blue
- Chinatown -Yellow
- The Old City (Khao San/ Banglamphu Area) – Grey
- Siam – Purple
- Pratunam – Pink
- Silom – Green
- Sukhumvit – Rd
- Suvarnabhumi Airport – Brown
- Chatuchak – Organic
Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit has a reputation for being one of Bangkok’s most cosmopolitan districts. It’s a popular destination for tourists and ex-pats, with luxurious hotels and a variety of restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
If nightlife is essential to you, Sukhumvit is arguably the greatest neighborhood to stay in. It has a thriving nightlife, most of which revolves around Soi 11, one of Bangkok’s most renowned party streets.
Sukhumvit is served by both the BTS and the MRT, so getting about shouldn’t be an issue.
Agoda and Booking are a website where you may look for lodging. Check out these top-rated Sukhumvit hotels:
- Luxury: Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit
- Midrange: LA49 Hotel
- Budget: Backpack Station
Siam
If you’re going to Bangkok simply to shop, Siam is the greatest place to be. It is densely packed with retail malls, department shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and pubs. I don’t recall the name of the hotel, but when we visited Siam many years ago, our hotel was surrounded by retail malls and linked to a BTS station. It was quite convenient.
The BTS Skytrain runs through the Siam neighborhood, so getting around will be easy. Agoda and Booking are a website where you may look for lodging. Check out some of the best hotels in Thailand:
- Luxury: The St. Regis Bangkok
- Midrange: Pathumwan Princess Hotel – SHA Certified
- Budget: Siam Stadium Hostel
Silom
Bangkok’s commercial district is Silom. We’ve never stayed here, but it’s another popular Bangkok neighborhood, possibly a rung below Siam and Sukhumvit. Lumphini Park, Patpong Night Market, and the iconic Patpong red light area are all located here.
The BTS and MRT both go through Silom, so getting around should be simple. Booking.com and Agoda are two websites where you may look for lodging. Check out these top-rated Silom hotels:
- Luxury: W Bangkok Hotel
- Midrange: The Quarter Silom by UHG
- Budget: Tini Kati Hostel
Pratunam
On our first trip to Bangkok, I stayed at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel in Pratunam. It is the highest hotel in Southeast Asia, at 88 stories tall. The room we stayed in was enormous and had a fantastic view of the city.
This hotel (and region) appealed to me since it is adjacent to various air-conditioned retail malls in the Siam neighborhood, such as MBK, Siam Center, and Siam Paragon. I recall going to MBK virtually every day and spending the majority of our time there, either shopping or simply getting away from the heat.
The hotel also includes observation decks on the 77th and 84th floors that provide breathtaking views of the city. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance online through Klook at a discounted price.
Or Dine at Baiyoke Sky Hotel for a romantic supper with a beautiful view in Bangkok with your loved ones at discounted price via Klook
You can book a room at Baiyoke Sky Hotel through Booking or Agoda.
If you enjoy the Pratunam region but don’t believe this is the perfect hotel for you, you may look at the following websites for more options in Pratunam: Booking or Agoda. Check out the following top-rated hotels in the area:
- Luxury: InterContinental Bangkok, an IHG Hotel
- Midrange: Theme Boutique Hotel Bangkok
- Budget: The Cocoon Hostel
Riverside
The Riverside neighborhood is a more calm, upmarket neighborhood with beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River. We reserved an Airbnb in Ideo Mobi Sathorn, a private condominium situated just across the street from the Krung Thonburi BTS station.
What I liked most about staying here was that it was in a peaceful area away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Bangkok. However, the Riverside region is a little distant from downtown Bangkok, so you’ll have to go to the city’s business sectors every day. It’s a lovely location to stay, but it may not be the best choice for first-time travelers to Bangkok.
If you prefer the Riverside area, you may look for listings on Booking or Agoda.com. Here are a couple of the area’s top-rated hotels:
- Luxury: The Peninsula Bangkok
- Midrange: Inn a day
- Budget: Tiny Taladnoi Hostel
Chinatown
If you’re looking for delicious street cuisine, Chinatown is one of the greatest locations to go. It is home to the vibrant Yaowarat Road, which is one of Bangkok’s greatest and most well-known destinations for street food.
As much fun as it is to dine in Chinatown, it is a busy location and may not be the greatest spot to stay in Bangkok for a more peaceful visit. I think there are just two MRT stations in the Chinatown neighborhood, making commuting difficult.
Agoda and Booking are websites where you may look for accommodation in Chinatown. Take a look at some of the best hotels in the area:
- Luxury: Hotel Royal [email protected]
- Midrange: Norn Yaowarat Hotel
- Budget: Luk Hostel
The Old City: Khao San/ Banglamphu
I haven’t seen it, but Khaosan Road was defined as “the center of the backpacker world” in the film “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. That may be an exaggeration, but it feels that way while you’re there.
This is where I used to stay when I traveled to Bangkok on my own twenty years ago. It’s a well-known district filled with pubs, inexpensive eateries, and guesthouses, making it a popular option for young travelers on a budget.
If you’re young and like partying, you’ll want to stay someplace near Khaosan Road.
It’s inexpensive and close to some of the city’s most popular sites, including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
I used to be hesitant to promote the Old City due to its lack of metro stations, but not anymore.
I was delighted to discover, thanks to a local reader, that the Sanam Chai MRT station opened in 2019. It’s roughly a 5-minute walk from Wat Pho, making getting to and from the Old City much simpler.
On Agoda or Booking, you may look for rooms near Khaosan Road. Here are a few of the best-rated hotels in the area:
- Luxury: Casa Nithra
- Midrange: Old Capital Bike Inn
- Budget: Mind Day Hostel Khaosan
Chatuchak
The Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao is a 5-star hotel located near the Chatuchak Weekend Market. In 2018, we were asked to stay here. The hotel is linked to the Centra Plaza Ladprao Shopping Complex and is near Don Mueang Airport
The hotel isn’t the most contemporary, but it’s elegant and quite comfortable, and there are lots of terrific restaurants around, including the famous Suan Bua Thai Restaurant.
Chatuchak is a bit farther away from the city’s major attractions, so I recommend staying here only if your primary purpose is to shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market or if you need to be near Don Mueang Airport.
Agoda allows you to reserve a room at Centara Grand in Central Plaza Ladprao.
If you appreciate the Chatuchak neighborhood but would like to stay somewhere else, check out these links for more options: Booking or Agoda. The following are some of the best-rated hotels in the area:
- Luxury: The Maruay Garden Hotel
- Midrange: The Quarter Ladprao by UHG
- Budget: [email protected]
Suvarnabhumi Aiport
You should only stay near Suvarnabhumi Airport if you arrive late at night or have an early flight the following day. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from downtown Bangkok, making it too remote to serve as a base.
On a previous trip to Thailand, we stayed at The Cottage for one night. We came in from Chiang Mai and wanted to find a hotel near the airport so that we could catch an international flight the following morning.
The Cottage is about a 5-minute drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport. It is a short walk to the Paseo Community Mall, which has a variety of restaurants and stores. They also offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
Agoda may be used to book reservations at The Cottage. You may also look on Booking or Agoda for more options near Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Best Places To Visit In Bangkok
1- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Many people consider the Grand Palace to be Bangkok’s most important attraction. It was built in 1782 and served as Thailand’s Royal Family’s official palace until 1925. Although the King currently lives at Dusit Palace, the Grand Palace is still utilized for ceremonial occasions such as royal ceremonies and state festivities.
The Grand Palace has a lot to see, so plan on spending some hours here. It’s a sprawling complex with beautiful buildings, pavilions, courtyards, and groomed gardens.
Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most significant monuments at the Grand Palace. It holds the famous Emerald Buddha and is considered Thailand’s most holy Buddhist temple.
You may visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew on your own, but if you want to understand more about its history, you can arrange a guided tour with Klook
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM-3:30 PM, daily
Admission: THB 500
Estimated Time to Spend: About 2 hrs
2- Wat Pho
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, is situated immediately south of the Grand Palace. It has almost 400 golden Buddha statues, the most magnificent of which is a 15-meter-tall, 46-meter-long reclining Buddha.
Wat Pho, along with Wat Arun, is one of six temples in Thailand considered to be the highest grade of first-class royal temples. It was the country’s first public university and is credited with giving birth to traditional Thai massage, which is being taught and performed at the temple today.
Operating Hours: 8 AM-6:30 PM, daily
Admission: THB 200
Estimated Time to Spend: About 1 hr
Because of its significance and closeness to the Grand Palace, both may be seen on guided excursions, which can be booked through Klook.
3- Wat Arun
Wat Arun is just over the river from Wat Pho. Aside from being one of Bangkok’s most significant temples, it’s also one of its most attractive, with a spectacular riverbank setting and intriguing architecture
It is simple to go from Wat Pho to Wat Arun. Simply stroll to Tha Thien Pier and take a THB 4 boat over the Chao Phraya River. You may also have a guided tour of Wat Arun, which you can book through Klook.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM-6 PM, daily
Admission: THB 50
Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr
4-Wat Saket
Wat Saket is a Buddhist temple from the Ayutthaya period notable for its dazzling gold chedi
It is also known as the Golden Mount and is located on top of an 80-meter-high man-made hill approximately 2.5 kilometers east of the Grand Palace. Climb nearly 300 stairs to the stupa on top for panoramic views of Bangkok in all directions.
Because there are no BTS or MRT stations near Wat Saket, it’s best to take a Grab from the Grand Palace or walk from Wat Suthat. You may also schedule a guided trip to Wat Saket with GetYourGuide
Operating Hours: 7:30 AM-7 PM, daily
Admission: THB 50
Estimated Time to Spend: About 1 hr
5- Wat Suthat Thepwararam and Giant Swing
Wat Suthat Thepwararam, located between the Grand Palace and Wat Saket, is one of Bangkok’s oldest Buddhist temples. It is one of 10 royal temples of the first class in Bangkok.
Wat Suthat is a notable temple, yet its most notable feature may be the massive crimson building towering immediately beyond its gate. The Giant Swing is over 21 meters tall and is made up of two crimson pillars joined by an elegantly carved crossbar.
During the Brahmin thanksgiving festival, young men would ride the swing up to 24 meters in the air, attempting to catch a bag of silver money with their teeth. It was a dangerous technique that was outlawed in 1932. You may visit Wat Suthat Thepwararam on your own.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM-9 PM, daily
Admission: THB 100
Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr
6- Jim Thompson House
In Siam, around 10 minutes walk from MBK Shopping Center, lies the Jim Thompson House Museum. He saved Thailand’s silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s by amassing an extensive Southeast Asian art collection
Aside from its intriguing style, the Jim Thompson House is intriguing due to its disappearance.
Jim Thompson vanished in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in 1967. His corpse was never located, and his disappearance is still unknown. You may go on your own or schedule a guided tour with Klook. or Getyourguide
Operating Hours: 9 AM-6 PM, daily
Admission: THB 200
Estimated Time to Spend: About 1-2 hrs
7- Erawan Shrine
The Erawan Shrine is a renowned Hindu shrine in Bangkok, also famous four-faced Buddha. Worshippers bring flowers, incense, and fruit to a gilded statue of Phra Phrom. Phra Phrom is the Thai name for Brahma, the Hindu creator deity.
Erawan Shrine is near the BTS Skytrain station Chit Lom. It’s in a bustling business district between Siam and Sukhumvit, so stop by while shopping. Throughout the day, the temple hosts Thai dance performances.
Operating Hours: 6 AM-11 PM, daily
Admission: FREE
Estimated Time to Spend: About 15-30 mins
8- Bangkok Art and Culture Center
The Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC) has 10 floors of free displays. It has commercial art galleries, cafés, booksellers, and craft businesses
You can get to BACC from the National Stadium BTS Station. It’s a fantastic stop when shopping in Siam.
Operating Hours: 10 AM-9 PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays)
Admission: FREE
Estimated Time to Spend: About 2-3 hrs
9- Erawan Museum
This is one of the most interesting museums I’ve seen in Bangkok. It includes a 250-ton bronze monument of a three-headed elephant that is 29 meters tall (95 feet) and 39 meters long (128 ft).
Samrong Station, the final station on the Skytrain’s Sukhumvit Line, is a short Grab ride away.
It’s a little difficult to find, but it’s well worth the effort if you’re searching for something out of the norm in Bangkok. More photographs and information may be found in my article on the Erawan Museum.
Tickets may be purchased at the gate, but you can save money by purchasing them in advance via Klook. You may also purchase combination tickets to both the Erawan Museum and the Ancient City via Klook or Get Your Guide.
Samrong Station, the final station on the Sukhumvit Line, is a short Grab ride away. It’s difficult to get there yet worth it if you want something different in Bangkok.
Operating Hours: 9 AM-7 PM, daily
Admission: THB 400
Estimated Time to Spend: About 1-2 hrs
10- Golden Buddha or Wat Traimit
The Wat Traimit temple in Bangkok’s Chinatown is a Royal temple famed for its large gold Buddha picture, It is located on Thanon Mittaphap Thai-China, just East of Thanon Yaowarat in Chinatown.
The temple, Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, has the huge solid gold Buddha image Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakon, depicting the subduing Mara mudra.
There is no BTS Sky Train station in the area. You can get there by MRT Subway, taxi or tuk-tuk
Operating Hours: 9 AM-7 PM, daily
Admission: FREE
Estimated Time to Spend: About 1-2 hrs
11- Explore the Historic City of Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was originally the capital of Siam and was founded in 1350. It thrived from the 14th through the 18th century, becoming one of the world’s biggest cities and a hub for international diplomacy and trade.
Unfortunately, the Burmese army destroyed it in 1767, and it was never restored. Its ruins are now one of the most popular day trips from Bangkok, with the Buddha head ensconced in a banyan tree being one of the most well-known sights.
Klook or Get Your Guide are two options for booking Ayutthaya day trips from Bangkok.
12- Lay on the Beach in Pattaya
Pattaya is a vacation town on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast. It’s around 150 kilometers south of Bangkok, giving it the capital city’s nearest major beach resort location.
Pattaya used to have bad notoriety for being a sleazy beach town, but that is no longer the case.
It currently caters to families and couples and is recognized for its white-sand beaches and enjoyable water sports activities like as snorkeling, jet-skiing, and parasailing.
If you aren’t planning on going to a beach resort after Bangkok, Klook and Get Your Guide both offer day excursions to Pattaya.
13- Visit the Seaside Resort Town of Hua Hin
To be honest, I had never heard of Hua Hin until Chef Nutth of A Chef’s Tour told me about it.
Hua Hin, it turns out, is a lovely resort town located less than three hours south of Bangkok.
According to Chef Nutth, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej spent a lot of time in his Hua Hin residence.
It seems to be a wonderful spot to spend a few days, but if you just want to have a taste of Hua Hin, you may book a day trip with Klook
14- Cross the Bridge on the River Kwai
“The Bridge on the River Kwai,” a 1957 film, is certainly familiar to you. It is set during the building of the Burma Railway in 1942–1943 and received numerous Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
This is the bridge mentioned in the movie and is also known as the “Death Railway.”
The Death Railway was built by the Japanese Empire to help its soldiers in the Burma campaign of World War II, and its name comes from the fact that it killed an estimated 100,000 civilian workers and Allied POWs during construction.
If you’re interested in war history, schedule a day excursion from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi on the Thai-Burma Railway, which you can do via Klook or Get Your Guide.
Thai Food Guide
Thailand is one of the greatest places to go if you want to eat well. The cuisine in Thailand is fantastic, so be sure to check out our Thai food guide for a list of 45 must-try foods.
1- Pe Aor Tom Yum Goong
The two most essential dishes in Thai cuisine are pad Thai and tom yum goong, and Pe Aor’s tom yum goong is often regarded as the greatest in Bangkok.
One of the things that make their tom yum so remarkable, as shown on Luke Nguyen’s Street Food Asia, is the broth. It’s made better by the addition of fat from shrimp heads. This tom yum has some real yum in it.
2- Raan Jay Fai
You’ve undoubtedly heard of Jay Fai, the one-Michelin-star street food queen of Bangkok.
This 75-year-old aviator-goggle-wearing warrior was once dubbed “the finest chef in Thailand” by Martha Stewart.
You’ll understand why after you have her crab omelet.
The only problem is that you may have to wait up to 5 hours for it.
Since she was given a star, her store has become quite popular, therefore making appointments is strongly encouraged.
3- Khao Gaeng Jake Puey
Bangkok is known for its street food, and one of the city’s most famous street food shops is Khao Gaeng Jake Puey in Chinatown. They’re noted for offering some of the city’s greatest Khao gaeng (Thai curry rice).
Expect big queues from the time they open at 4 p.m. at Khao Gaeng Jake Puey. Make sure you know exactly what you want since they’re known as the “Soup Nazi” of Thai curries. Can’t make up your mind on what to order? You’ll be at the end of the queue!
4- Wattana Panich
One of Bangkok’s most gorgeous sights has to be this massive pot of cooked beef.
Is there anything else like it?
Chef Nutth of A Chef’s Tour’s eyes brightened up when I informed him we had lunch here.
“In Bangkok, that’s my favorite restaurant!” It’s not difficult to see why Wattana Panich is known for its slow-braised beef simmered in this cauldron, which may be eaten in a dish with noodles or alone with rice.
5- Suan Bua Thai Restaurant
I’m very confident you’ve never tasted Thai food like this, no matter how acquainted you are with the cuisine.
Centara Grand’s signature Thai restaurant, Suan Bua, is located in Central Plaza Ladprao. They’re recognized for offering Thai court cuisine from King Rama V’s royal kitchen.
We’ve tasted Thai cuisine before, but it’s never been exactly like this. More photos may be seen in my Suan Bua Thai Restaurant post.
Points To Note IN BANGKOK
To make things simpler for you, I developed the map below to show you where everything is.
To see an interactive version of the map, click on the link. This map pins all of the locations mentioned in this guide that is located inside Bangkok’s city borders.
HOW TO GET AROUND IN BANGKOK
BTS Skytrain / MRT
Although Bangkok’s BTS and MRT lines are modern and efficient, they do not serve as many regions of the city as they could. We often found ourselves riding the train to the next metro station, then walking for a few minutes, or hailing a Grab to our destination. You could end yourself doing the same thing.
If you have the option, I recommend staying near a metro station to avoid becoming too reliant on cabs or Grab. On one trip, our AirBnB stayed directly outside the Krung Thonburi BTS station, which made getting around so much simpler.
If you anticipate riding the Skytrain often, you might consider purchasing a BTS One Day Pass or a BTS Rabbit Card . The BTS One Day Pass allows you to ride the Skytrain limitless times in one day, while the Rabbit Card is a stored-value card comparable to Seoul’s T-money Card or Hong Kong’s Octopus Card. Both cards, however, are ineligible for use on the MRT.
Grab
As previously indicated, you will need additional transit to augment the metro system. Although it looks to be more expensive than cabs, I recommend Grab.
Scams using taxis and tuk-tuks are common in Bangkok. I’ve previously been duped on other vacations, and those experiences have entirely turned me off to them.
People on the internet claim it’s safe to hail cabs while they’re in motion, but I’ve been so turned off by them that I’m frightened to even attempt.
How Many Days To Stay/ Bangkok Intinerary
If this is your first visit to Bangkok, I believe 3-4 days is an appropriate length of time to spend there. You’ll visit all of the key sights and have enough time for a day excursion. If at all feasible, stay over the weekend since several of the greatest markets are closed during the week. To assist you with planning your vacation, below is an example 4D/4N Bangkok itinerary. DAY ONE |
DAY TWO |
|
DAY THREE |
|
DAY FOUR |
Read more: The Best 2 Weeks in Thailand Itinerary
Bangkok Travel Tips
Plan your Trip with Sygic Travel
Rent a Pocket Wifi Device
When traveling, having a stable internet connection is essential. It will assist you in navigating, translating signs and menus, and doing last-minute research. We no longer travel anyplace without first hiring a portable wifi gadget.
In Thailand, you may remain connected by renting a portable wifi gadget or purchasing a sim card. We usually hire pocket wifi devices with unlimited data since they are easier to use, however, sim cards are also OK. They were less expensive. Through Klook, you may rent a portable wifi gadget or purchase a SIM card.
Dress Appropriately
It is essential to dress correctly while visiting the Grand Palace and many of Bangkok’s temples. Please keep the following dress code in mind:
- Short skirts, shorts, and shorter pants are not permitted.
- Skirts that fall below the knee are permissible.
- Tight-fitting pants or leggings are not permitted.
- Any apparel with holes, such as torn jeans, is not permitted.
- Tops with no sleeves are not permitted, even if you cover your shoulders with a scarf.
- Sleeves must be rolled down at all times.
- Sportswear of any kind, including sweatshirts and sweat trousers, is not permitted.
- Although sandals and flip-flops are permissible, it is better to wear closed shoes.
Beware of Scams
Scams may and do occur everywhere in the globe, including Bangkok. Some of the frauds we’ve experienced throughout the years are listed here.
- AIRPORT TAXI SCAM: Taxi drivers will attempt to overcharge you to transport you into downtown Bangkok. Anyone who approaches you should be ignored. Instead, go to the official taxi line at either Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport and take a genuine metered taxi. A taxi driver who refuses to utilize the meter is a con artist.
- Fraud OF “IT’S CLOSED”: This is the scam that has turned me off to cabs and tuk-tuks. You get into a waiting taxi, hoping to go someplace, and the driver informs you that the location is either closed or not yet open. This is a complete fabrication. He’ll then attempt to persuade you to go to a gem store or a tailor instead, where he’ll get compensated for each sucker he brings in. When a driver tells you this, just exit the vehicle and utilize Grab instead.
- FRIENDLY LOCAL SCAM: While riding the BTS, our buddy Natt pointed this out to us.
A kind local may approach visitors who seem to be lost and pretend to assist them.
They’ll attempt to take you to a gem store or tailor after they’ve acquired your confidence.
- SCAM OF A SEX SHOW: This occurred to me and a buddy over two decades ago, and the recollection of it still hurts. A native who had befriended us took us to one of those Thai ping pong sex shows. I’m not sure what the enticement was, although it could have had something to do with cheap beverages.
When you attempt to leave, which we did after one drink (I promise! ), you’ll find a sign stating that the club has an admission charge, which is ridiculous, like THB 10,000 or something. The sign is purposefully buried so that you don’t see it as you come in. I recall him swinging his fist at me and threatening us with violence if we didn’t pay. We couldn’t pay the entire amount since we didn’t have enough money, but we ended up losing a lot that night.
Never, ever again.
Get Travel Insurance
We acquire travel insurance more often as we age, but not always. It depends on our destination and activities.
We may miss it if we just visit Bangkok for a few days to eat street cuisine and buy at night markets. We’ll get a policy if we intend on doing more active stuff like hiking or biking.
We needed travel insurance since we went to an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai after our previous trip to Bangkok.
We use SafetyWing. It is a reputable supplier of digital nomad travel medical insurance.
See my essay on why we get travel insurance for more details. Get a free SafetyWing quotation by clicking the links.
Bring the Right Power Adapter
Thailand’s electrical outlets normally have a two-pronged round or flat plugs, either Type A, Type B, Type C, or Type F. Bring the appropriate power adapters for your gadgets. The standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
Eat for Cheap at the Basement of Suvarnabhumi Airport
Even when I’m not hungry, I always eat at airports. It’s my specialty. The issue is that airport food is often mediocre and pricey, which is unfortunate in a country like Thailand where there is so much delicious affordable cuisine to be obtained.
If you’re flying out of Suvarnabhumi and seeking one final great Thai dinner, walk down to the airport’s basement 24-hour food court.
There are a lot of food vendors providing tasty, cheap Thai food there. Simply take the alkylator down to the lowest level and then turn left.
Check for Discount Passes
Many websites provide travel, vacation, and service coupons. I recommend Klook and Get Your Guide in Bangkok. They are all credible firms with whom we have worked for many years with no issues.
Enjoy! 🙂
